October 2, 2023 - 10:00 AM - Board of Commissioners Minutes

10 785 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners October 2 , 2023 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , October 2 , 2023 at 10 00 am 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 and Richard D Braswell Absent Commissioner April Stephens 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 to the Board Susie Reeves Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr called the meeting to order at 10 00 am Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr opened the meeting with a prayer VFW Post 5955 Selma led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag Chairman Lawter reminded everyone of the Board’s six priorities including Public Safety , Infrastructure , County Employees , Financial Stewardship , Educational Funding , and Land Use and the Board’s continuing efforts to keep these priorities in mind when working through the agenda The Chairman announced Commissioner April Stephens had a conflict for the morning meeting , but would be joining remotely for the evening meeting of the Board 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda moving the proclamation declaring October 23 - 27 , 2023 as Employee Appreciation Week to the beginning of the agenda as a separate item and removing the consent agenda item for the Tourism Authority appointments from the agenda 2 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – August 21 , 2023 ; September 5 , 2023 - 10 00 am and 6 00 pm B Department of Transportation – Additions to the System The Board concurred with the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s recommendation to add the following roads to the State Maintained System Eason Farm Drive – Eason Farm – Wilders Township C Town of Pine Level – Appointment to Pine Level Planning Board Per a request by the Town of Pine Level , the Board made the following appointments to the Pine Level Planning Board representing the ETJ area of the Town Tonia Hill regular ETJ member - 368 East Gordon Rd , Selma term expiring October 31 , 2026 Shannan L Parrish regular ETJ member - 689 Davis Mill Rd , Selma term expiring October 31 , 2026 Jamie Shane Strickland ETJ alternate – 1785 Pine Level - Selma Rd , term expiring October 31 , 2026 D Town of Four Oaks – Appointment to Four Oaks Planning Board Per a request by the Town of Four Oaks , the Board made the following appointment to the Four Oaks Planning Board representing the ETJ area of the Town Chad Stewart – 121 Dogwood Lane , Four OaksPage786 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued E Municipal Funding Agreement – Agreement between the Town of Smithfield and Johnston County for the Johnston County Municipal Grant Funding Program for water , wastewater or stormwater projects for the purchase of additional capacity allocation in the amount of 500,00000 , approved as follows Page787 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued F Economic Development Incentive Agreement Amendment The Board approved the following amendment to the Economic Development Incentive Agreement , between Amazoncom Services LLC and Johnston County , North Carolina , and dated May 10 , 2021 Page788 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am ContinuedPagePage pageNumber5789 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued G Department of Social Services – Income Maintenance Positions The Board approved thirteen new Income Maintenance positions to address the implementation of Medicaid Expansion effective December 1 , 2023 These positions will focus solely on taking and processing new Medicaid Expansion applications estimated to be 10,300 , processing the new applications and assisting with processing additional Medicaid recertifications H Appointments , approved as follows with waivers in the length of service policy where needed i Firefighter’s Relief Fund Board of Trustees – The following appointments were made for two year terms to expire on October 31 , 2025 - indicates a waiver was granted for the length of service policy Bentonville – Wayne Langston was reappointed Beulah – Douglas R Whitley was reappointed Corinth - Holder – Carol D Woodard was reappointed ii Fire Protection District Commissions – The following appointments were made for two year terms to expire on October 31 , 2025 - indicates a waiver was granted for the length of service policy Beulah – Eric Boyette was reappointed iii Johnston County Heritage Commission – Lettie Inez Best and Ashley Webster were reappointed and James Dana Carter , II was appointed for two year terms to expire on October 31 , 2025 with Ms Webster receiving a waiver in the length of service policy I Budget Revisions , approved as follows Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE PagePage pageNumber6790 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued 10 59207050 Non - Major Capital Assets 5,74895 10 59257050 Non - Major Capital Assets 8,20725 10 59457050 Non - Major Capital Assets 21,91956 10 59607050 Non - Major Capital Assets 2,83769 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 38,71345 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 592034154 Medicaid 5,74895 10 592534154 Medicaid 8,20725 10 594534154 Medicaid 21,91956 10 596034154 Medicaid 2,83769 TOTAL NET REVENUE 38,71345 Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52000411 Professional Service Hospital 33398 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 33398 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 520033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 33398 TOTAL NET REVENUE 33398 Library REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 18 44502115 Postage Meter Rent 12000 18 44503314 Marketing Expense 11,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 11,12000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 18 445033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 11,12000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 11,12000 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 51000210 Salaries Overtime 3,81208 10 51001700 Vehicles 24000 10 51007414 Capital Outlay – Sheriff 9,57320 10 51007418 Capital Outlay – Drug Seizure 21,74278 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 35,36806 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 510032106 Controlled Substance Tax 9,57320 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 3,81208 10 510035104 Sheriff Fees 24000 10 510035160 Federal Equitable Sharing 21,74278 TOTAL NET REVENUE 35,36806 Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61003348 CCU Medicaid Continuous Coverage 149,31800PagePage pageNumber7791 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 149,31800 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 460033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 149,31800 TOTAL NET REVENUE 149,31800 Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61003347 GAP Hold Harmless 476,36100 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 476,36100 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 460033990 Fund Balance Appropriated 476,36100 TOTAL NET REVENUE 476,36100 J Tax Releases & Refunds – 08 16 2023 – 09 15 2023 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 8 16 2023 8 36 49 AM ALassiter 2023 - 116309 2000233312 HARRIS , ALISON 44238 8 16 2023 11 06 20 AM ALassiter 2023 - 34631 2000188358 DOUGLAS , PHILIP 12029 8 16 2023 11 53 09 AM ALassiter 2023 - 112978 2000225128 STATON , ROBERT J JR 12835 8 16 2023 1 03 17 PM ALassiter 2023 - 19342 2000256541 HENNEIN INC 1,16183 8 16 2023 1 10 07 PM ALassiter 2023 - 25428 2000115094 CRUMPLER , DARWIN E 80728 8 24 2023 8 45 27 AM dwoodward2 2023 - 78554 72464900 PREVITTE , JAMES HAROLD JR 10632 8 24 2023 1 25 42 PM ALassiter 2023 - 113971 2000058383 WASTE MGT OF CAROLINAS INC 26294 8 24 2023 2 56 16 PM ALassiter 2023 - 113875 2000058383 WASTE MGT OF CAROLINAS INC 1,10705 8 24 2023 4 00 39 PM ALassiter 2023 - 202112 2000257250 P & S JAVA ENTERPRISES INC 15529 8 24 2023 4 29 20 PM dwoodward2 2023 - 12921 2000163285 BRICE , THOMAS WAYNE 4,07154 8 24 2023 4 32 48 PM dwoodward2 2023 - 118373 2000194356 STEEL BRIDGE CROSSING , LLC 43725 8 25 2023 2 18 42 PM dwoodward2 2023 - 126851 2000253589 TAORMINO , COLIN 1,93528 8 25 2023 2 21 09 PM dwoodward2 2023 - 100354 2000060817 WACK , WILLIAM D 98478 8 28 2023 8 20 08 AM ALassiter 2023 - 202075 2000261836 7210W CORP 25792 8 28 2023 9 01 13 AM ALassiter 2023 - 113971 2000058383 WASTE MGT OF CAROLINAS INC - 26294 8 28 2023 9 03 02 AM ALassiter 2023 - 113971 2000058383 WASTE MGT OF CAROLINAS INC 26297 8 28 2023 10 41 52 AM ALassiter 2023 - 94355 2000084343 TANT , GARLAND L 16800 8 28 2023 10 47 37 AM dwoodward2 2023 - 89435 2000165648 SMITH , REID M 1,62858 9 1 2023 1 17 01 PM dwoodward2 2023 - 202198 2000246997 DRY , ANDREW NEAL 50358 9 13 2023 11 47 21 AM ALassiter 2023 - 20501 2000249505 CAICEDO , OSCAR E 70840 9 13 2023 4 05 51 PM ALassiter 2023 - 9460 2000080436 BENSON , BILLY W 23910 9 13 2023 4 48 36 PM ALassiter 2023 - 107721 2000250627 STACKHOUSE MANAGEMENT 21217 LLC Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 8 17 2023 1 16 02 PM tmeacomes 2022 - 94118 2000203795 SULLIVAN , MICHAEL PERRY 21755 8 17 2023 2 50 57 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 118246 2000253341 SOTHERN TIDE HOMES , LLC 32340 8 17 2023 4 15 10 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 52087 2000213298 JONES , MICHAEL D 15340 8 21 2023 2 42 24 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 63466 2000121943 MCCARTY , MARGARET M LIFE 21196 ESTATE 8 21 2023 2 43 03 PM awstancil 2023 - 123424 2000254291 OAKFIELD , LLC 15495 8 22 2023 10 56 59 AM ajsoutherland 2023 - 103555 2000037892 WILKINS , JOHN C JR 19266 8 23 2023 1 53 27 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 113704 2000213427 LASSITER , BRYAN SCOTT 22000PagePage pageNumber8792 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued 8 23 2023 3 03 37 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 79051 2000233383 PROGRESS RESIDENTIAL 14311 EXCHANGE BORROWER , LLC 8 23 2023 3 05 07 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 79052 2000233383 PROGRESS RESIDENTIAL 13343 EXCHANGE BORROWER , LLC 8 23 2023 3 06 37 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 79056 2000233383 PROGRESS RESIDENTIAL 18024 EXCHANGE BORROWER , LLC 8 24 2023 2 29 13 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 18737 2000258701 CARROLL , MOZELLE 1,09838 8 24 2023 2 29 13 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 99035 2000234628 ROCK CREEK BUILDERS , INC 34830 8 28 2023 1 30 07 PM ajsoutherland 2023 - 124534 2000140373 GOLDEN PROPERTIES AND 2,34354 DEVELOPMENT INC 8 28 2023 2 15 14 PM awstancil 2023 - 48943 2000236331 MOYER , THOMAS EVERETTE 67899 8 29 2023 8 25 12 AM jmorrow 2020 - 47430 2000083120 IVEY , WENDY 18244 8 29 2023 2 50 01 PM LOCKBOX 2022 - 5372 2000152930 BAILEY , LUCINDA 25674 8 29 2023 2 50 01 PM LOCKBOX 2022 - 36525 2000096542 GLENARD W BAILEY LP 32029 8 31 2023 2 41 07 PM awstancil 2023 - 128150 2000254129 DEVELOPERS CAPITAL FUND , 70950 LLC 8 31 2023 2 44 43 PM awstancil 2023 - 128080 2000254129 DEVELOPERS CAPITAL FUND , 70950 LLC 8 31 2023 2 46 31 PM awstancil 2023 - 127610 2000254129 DEVELOPERS CAPITAL FUND , 46200 LLC 9 1 2023 3 14 07 PM LOCKBOX 2022 - 24223 2000207378 CROSBIE , PATRICK 2,02658 9 1 2023 3 14 07 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 32295 2000165006 DAVIS , DEBORAH ANNETTE 13730 HEIRS 9 5 2023 2 11 51 PM tmeacomes 2023 - 122201 2000197145 RMS INVESTMENTS , LLC 42350 9 5 2023 3 02 03 PM awstancil 2023 - 30740 2000240645 SHIELDS , DANNY 14621 9 6 2023 2 40 24 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 91977 2000201458 HADLEY HOMES INC 40320 9 8 2023 2 55 10 PM awstancil 2023 - 46333 2000239324 HUCKABY , JULIE 10000 9 8 2023 3 05 42 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 118722 2000218051 S & B REAL ESTATE VENTURES , 11778 LLC 9 8 2023 3 05 42 PM LOCKBOX 2023 - 118719 2000218051 S & B REAL ESTATE VENTURES , 10532 LLC North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – August 2023 100 + Payee Name Bill # Transaction # Refund Total Reason Change BEASLEY’S 0073856080 191349968 Adjustment 28428 LAWN CARE 4944 LLC 33372 BRYAN , 0068999603 288230793 Situs error 27083 KELLY ANN 21147 7049 55279 CLEAR - CON 0072624036 381556288 Situs error 000 LLC 92340 9720 30780 113400 EVANS , 0074129976 384709524 Situs error 000 STACEY 19226 LYNN 4048 6409 21587 HUBER , LISA 0068465248 175543816 Adjustment 26046 TETTERTON 20338 6779 53163 WILLIAMS , 0069048813 262908162 Adjustment 14922 SHAYLA 1635 LARAE 16557 ZENO , 0066944036 352042588 Situs error 6475 MICHAEL 5322 WAYNE JRPagePage pageNumber9793 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued 3000 14797 3 Public Comments None 4 Proclamation – Employee Appreciation Week – October 23 – 27 , 2023 Commissioner Tony Braswell read aloud the following proclamation supporting Employee Appreciation Week and moved for its adoption Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris seconded the motion which carried by unanimous vote JOHNSTON COUNTY EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION WEEK October 23 – October 27 , 2023 WHEREAS , Johnston County employees represent over 1,000 men and women , working in thirty - one different service departments and agencies , devoted to making Johnston County a better place to work and live ; and WHEREAS , Johnston County employees provide a multitude of services for all the citizens of the County ; and WHEREAS , Johnston County employees are both skilled and efficient in their jobs , making every effort to expend County tax dollars in the most effective way for the betterment of the County and its citizens ; and WHEREAS , Johnston County Government runs smoothly on a day - to - day basis primarily because of the dedicated employees in each of its departments and agencies NOW , THEREFORE , in appreciation for their dedication to the welfare of the citizens of our County , THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DOES HEREBY PROCLAIM the week of October 23 - 27 , 2023 as COUNTY EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION WEEK nd Adopted this the 2 day of October , 2023 5 Johnston County Cooperative Extension – Proclamation – National 4 - H Week Johnston County 4 - H Extension Agents Meredith Wood and Kaena Prince presented a request to the Board to adopt a proclamation for October 1 – 7 , 2023 to observe National 4 - H Week Ms Wood thanked the Board for their past support and spoke on the mission of 4 - H to get youth involved and teach necessary life skills Ms Wood stated the proclamation highlights the numbers of youths that have benefitted through 4 - H programming efforts and they are hopeful to recruit more participants in the future Commissioner Ted G Godwin read aloud the following proclamation and moved for its adoption , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried unanimously NATIONAL 4 - H WEEK PROCLAMATION WHEREAS , 4 - H youth across the nation are leading efforts to solve problems in their communities and make a difference for their futures ; and WHEREAS , 4 - H is the largest youth development organization in North Carolina and the largest in the nation with over six million participants ; and WHEREAS , 4 - H in North Carolina claims 260,000 youth members and 13,000 volunteers , while Johnston County’s 4 - H program numbers reach more than 3,000 youth participants and more than 105 volunteers ; andPage0794 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , 4 - H as part of the NC Cooperative Extension System of NC State University and NCA & T State University is a program where youth learn through opportunities that provide them hands - on experiences in 4 - H’s mission mandates of science , engineering and technology ; healthy living ; and citizenship ; and WHEREAS , 4 - H has connected youth and their communities with the innovative research and resources from our nation’s 112 land - grant universities and colleges for more than 120 years NOW , THEREFORE , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners , do hereby proclaim October 1 - 7 , 2023 , as National 4 - H Week in Johnston County We urge the people of this County to take advantage of the opportunity to become more aware of this special program that enhances our young people’s interests in their futures as part of Johnston County 4 - H Youth Development and to join us in recognizing the unique partnership between our County and our State University System nd Adopted this the 2 day of October 2023 Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated the leadership exhibited by the young adults , not just in Johnston County and North Carolina , but on a national level is amazing He stated he looks forward to seeing continued success in that arena 6 Harbor - Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month Harbor Executive Director Kay Johnson thanked the Board of Commissioners for their continued support stating without that support , Harbor would not be able to serve those in need Ms Johnson spoke on their current activities and initiatives stating they have hired a Sexual Assault Advocate as well as a Community Resource Advocate to develop collaborative partnerships to specifically address homelessness Ms Johnson stated Harbor is also working to make sure all their advocates are trained in completing Domestic Violence Protective Orders to make sure they are completed accurately with the Magistrates Office Ms Johnson thanked the Board for considering a proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris read aloud the following proclamation and moved for its adoption , seconded by Commissioner Tony Braswell , and carried unanimously PROCLAMATION DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH OCTOBER 2023 WHEREAS , home should be a place of warmth , unconditional love , safety , and peace ; however , tragically for many Americans , these are blessings that are tarnished by violence and fear ; and WHEREAS , domestic violence touches the lives of Americans of all ages , leaving a devastating impact on women , men , and children of every background and circumstance with a family’s home becoming a place of fear , hopelessness , and desperation when a woman is battered by her partner , a child witnesses the abuse of a loved one , or a senior is victimized by family members ; and WHEREAS , domestic violence remains a major public health , social justice , and human rights issue requiring particular attention , and its interventions must be with the inclusion of both women and men at all levels ; and WHEREAS , there is an urgent need , more than ever , to get involved ; and WHEREAS , the wide prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault , along with the shocking silence and inaction around these issues , compels all of us to come together and get involved to end the abusive violence in our relationships , in our families , and in our communities ; and WHEREAS , since 1984 , HARBOR , INCORPORATED has been actively involved in addressing domestic violence in our community and has collaborated with numerous people and groups to respond , educate , and bring awareness to all people about domestic violence ; andPage1795 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , HARBOR , INCORPORATED serves approximately 3,000 direct victims and others annually and would like to invite everyone to support October 2023 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month , as it will be dedicated to the “ Every1KnowsSome1 ; and WHEREAS , this campaign underscores the urgent need for involvement by acting , speaking out , breaking our silence , and seeking help when we see this problem in our life , in our family , and in our community NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the Johnston County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim the month of October 2023 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and urges all citizens to observe this month by becoming aware of the tragedy of domestic violence , support those who are working toward its end , and make a personal commitment to get involved in the Campaign “ Every1KnowsSome1 ” nd Proclaimed this the 2 day of October 2023 Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr expressed his appreciation to Harbor for all their work especially assisting children stating this is a personal matter to him Chairman Lawter thanked Ms Johnson and all at Harbor for what they do to help others 7 Public Hearing – Ordinance Amendment – Chapter 10 EMS Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr opened the Public Hearing County Attorney Jennifer Slusser explained the purpose of the public hearing is to receive public comment on proposed amendments to Chapter 10 - Emergency Medical Services of the Johnston County Code of Ordinances She stated the amendments are necessary because of the transition of emergency medical services from contracted agencies to Johnston County and to update service provider information Ms Slusser noted the proposed amendments will dissolve the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee which is no longer needed now that the County provides those services in - house The Chairman indicated that no emails were received regarding this item and he asked for anyone that wished to speak on the proposed amendments to come forward There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the Public Hearing 8 Public Hearing – Residency Redistricting Project Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr opened the Public Hearing County Attorney Jennifer Slusser explained that Johnston County has residency district boundaries for election of the seven - member Board of County Commissioners She stated at the September 18 , 2023 meeting , the Board received information and proposed options for a residency redistricting project Ms Slusser stated at th the September 18 meeting , the Board made the determination that based on the 2020 census data and percentage deviation as presented during that meeting , there is a substantial inequality of population in the current districts and the Board wanted to move forward with this project Ms Slusser reported that staff offered opportunities for public input through the County’s website , th direct contact with the Clerk to the Board , and through a public drop - in session held on September 20 Ms Slusser stated two comments were received through the website portal and one comment received at the th September 20 public drop - in session , all of which have been provided to the Board for their review Ms Slusser stated the purpose of this hearing is to receive any additional public comment on the proposed th redistricting map options that were presented to the Board at the September 18 meeting , identified as Map Options 1 , 2 , and 3 She offered to answer any questions The Chairman asked for anyone that wished to speak on this item to come forward and asked that speakers keep their comments to three to five minutes Angelique Legette , Smithfield , distributed materials to the Board and introduced Dr Priscilla Rice with the Johnston County NAACP Branch for further comments Dr Rice thanked the Board for allowing her to share the perspective of the Johnston County NAACP Branch concerning the redistricting , redistribution , and equalization of Johnston County residents within the seven districts Dr Rice stated on June 1 , 2023 Senate Bill 379 became law , which added Johnston County to the list of counties authorized to redefine their residencyPage2796 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued districts by its Board of Commissioners She stated the law permitted the Johnston County Board of Commissioners to determine if there was a substantial inequality of population among the residency districts , and if found to be so , then it would redefine those districts to make them more equal by resolution Dr Rice stated this act would not affect the unexpired terms of the current Board of Commissioners , and it would not change the voting method for the County citizens Dr Rice continued that with this in mind , the Johnston County Branch of the NAACP convened a committee for the preparation of public comments for today’s hearing and to determine the best map option for the citizens of Johnston County regarding the redistribution of the population She stated as a population of voters , they are members of a larger community and are here to complement the Board’s efforts and not to compete with the efforts such that all constituencies who are affected by this will experience growth maximization within Johnston County Dr Rice stated while it is understood that the original charge for Senator Benton Sawrey and Senate Bill 379 was for redistricting and elections to consider different voting methods in Johnston County that is not what the final bill addressed Dr Rice indicated to that resolve , there is still the recognition of the need for African American representation on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners She stated the charge from the final Senate Bill 379 was merely to redistribute populations ; therefore , the review of the three maps that were presented at the September 20 , 2023 public drop - in session has led the Johnston County NAACP to the selection of Map Option 1 for the implementation of population equalization Dr Rice commended the Board for their efforts and asked that they consider their recommendation for Map Option 1 that will work for the greater good of all of Johnston County She stated they look forward to having future discussions with the Board of Commissioners about redistricting the County and she thanked the Board for the opportunity to express the perspective of the Johnston County Branch of the NAACP Jean Casanave , Benson , stated she submitted feedback through the online portal and she could not believe that only two people responded Ms Casanave expressed her appreciation for the effort the Board has put into the map options and she has no preference over which map would be best Ms Casanave expressed her appreciation that the maps would balance the population ; however , she asked the Board to consider changing the method of election so that Commissioners would be elected by the people within their specific districts instead of at - large Ms Casanave stated if the goal is to truly restore the republic and bring it closer to the people then she believes that is the way it has to be done Chairman Lawter noted there were two emails received through the online portal , one from Jonathan Stovall and the other from Ms Casanave There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the Public Hearing Chairman Lawter stated the Board would be voting on the redistricting project at the 6 00 pm meeting 9 Fire Chiefs Association – Fire Service Matrix Update Cleveland Fire Chief Chris Ellington updated the Board on the Fire Service Matrix Chief Ellington stated work continues on the Fire Service Matrix and noted that Emergency Services Deputy Fire Marshal Jordan Piper is working with the Matrix Committee to assist with data collection and administration He stated Mr Piper’s assistance has been a tremendous help to the Committee Chief Ellington continued that Phases 1 and 2 of the Matrix came easy and many good things have already happened in Johnston County He stated there are fire departments that are now offering staff or have increased their staffing levels in areas where it did not previously exist He further stated that some of the fire departments are now able to update their equipment turnout gear and there has been planning for capital projects such as apparatus replacement , station additions , and renovations to move things even further towards the betterment of fire services in the County Chief Ellington stated the Emergency Services staff is currently working on Phase 3 of the Matrix , which involves drafting a strategic plan He indicated that the vision statement is to do what is best for the citizens of Johnston County and this should be kept in mind , as there is focus on the funding mechanism Chief Ellington stated there will be timelines established for staff and the fire departments to accomplish goals and some of the upcoming topics include the creation of a county - wide fire service district and eliminating the individual districts , setting a common tax rate across the County , and establishing minimum standards for fire departments across the County He stated staff is currently working with all the fire departments through surveys to gather their input and keep them updated Chief Ellington stated there have been some individual meetings and smaller focus groups to gather information from individual fire departments He stated the surveys will continue to be distributed , and while this may be a lengthy process , the Committee believes they can reach the end goal quickly Page3797 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner Tony Braswell expressed his appreciation for all the dedicated hard work on the Matrix Commissioner T Braswell stated as he understands , when the County moves to a county - wide fire tax , budget requests will come straight from the fire departments Chief Ellington responded that in the strategic plan , staff is developing procedures to move to a budget submittal process Upon a question by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Chief Ellington stated the surveys have been sent to the fire chiefs in an effort to gather information as it relates to an effective response force He stated they want to make sure all the needs are addressed through the survey Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris stated he has had the opportunity to attend some of the meetings and everyone is focused on what is best for the citizens of the County Vice Chairman Harris thanked Chief Ellington along with all the other fire chiefs for their leadership stating they have worked tirelessly on this project He stated there are going to be changes in the fire services in Johnston County and while there may be bumps in the road , he believes the end result will be positive Chief Ellington thanked the Board for supporting this initiative Commissioner Richard D Braswell stated he also has attended several of the meetings and found them to be very informative Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated the Committee’s work is going to be transformational for fire services in Johnston County , and one of the important aspects is to make sure that regardless of where someone is located in the County , they will receive the same level of services during their time of need Chairman Lawter thanked everyone for their work on the Matrix 10 Sheriff’s Office – 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Funds Chief Deputy Bengie Gaddis presented the following Memorandum from Sheriff Steve Bizzell and informed the Board of Commissioners that the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office has applied for 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Funds in the amount of 13,01500 Mr Gaddis stated the grant funds will be used to purchase weapon mounted illumination devices to enhance officer safety and firearms proficiency for deputy sheriffs Mr Gaddis 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 and he offered to answer any questions Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved to accept the memorandum of official notification below as part of the minutes and approve the grant Commissioner Richard D Braswell seconded the motion which carried by unanimous vote Page4798 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued 11 Public Utilities – Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Nitrogen Allocation Utilities Director Chandra Farmer , PE , explained that with the County’s wastewater treatment process , clean treated water is discharged back into the river Ms Farmer stated there are multiple limits and different parameters on the quality of the discharged water with one of those being nitrogen limits Ms Farmer stated there is a goal to reduce the amount of nitrogen in the Neuse River ; therefore , the County has a specific amount of nitrogen that is allowed to be discharged as part of the treatment process Ms Farmer stated in March of 2022 , the Board approved an agreement with Restoration Systems , LLC for the acquisition of nitrogen offset credits for future wastewater treatment expansion projects She stated in total , the approved agreement releases 27,398 lbs of nitrogen credits to the County over the next seven years Once the contractual amount of nitrogen is released , the County’s allocation will be sufficient to discharge at least 135 MGD , which is the maximum flow in the County’s existing NPDES permit However , the County is seeking approval to increase the NPDES discharge permit to 180 MGD in order to meet future growth demands Ms Farmer noted that staff will continue to utilize technology to minimize nitrogen discharge to very low concentrations ; however , since nitrogen is measured on a mass limit lbs , an additional allocation will be necessary in order to increase the volume of flow treated and discharged She stated the County’s consultant for the expanded NPDES discharge permit Dewberry Engineers helped identify available nitrogen allocations for purchase and put County staff in contact with International Paper Company IP Ms Farmer stated IP agreed to sell 10,000 lbs of estuary nitrogen allocation to the County at 500 lb She stated the proposed purchase requires the County to purchase the allocation in two installments , as follows • First installment – 2,500,000 for 5,000 lbs upon NCDEQ approval of the transfer • Second installment - 2,500,000 for 5,000 lbs by June 30 , 2024Page5799 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued Ms Farmer stated this allocation , combined with the County’s existing allocation and contracted credits , are sufficient to discharge up to 180 MGD She presented the following revised capital project budget for nitrogen allocation which includes the prior Restoration Systems contract - 10,800,000 Existing Proposed Expenses Nitrogen Nutrient Credit Acquisition 10,800,00000 15,800,00000 Cost of 2021 Revenue Bond Issuance 127,83900 127,83900 Cost of Future Revenue Bond Issuance 127,83900 000 Total Project Cost 11,055,67800 15,927,83900 Funding for the proposed project is as follows 2021 Water Sewer Revenue Bonds 3,373,24000 6,500,00000 2023 Water Sewer Revenue Bonds 2,126,76000 000 FY 23 24 Appropriation from Sewer SDFs 000 2,500,00000 Fund 68 Balance Appropriation for FY 23 24 000 1,427,83900 Future Water Sewer Revenue Bonds 5,555,67800 000 Future SDFs or Fund 68 Balance 000 5,500,00000 Total Project Funds 11,055,67800 15,927,83900 All remaining unencumbered 2021 Water Sewer Revenue Bond proceeds will be budgeted to this project The proposed 6,500,000 includes an appropriation of 1,637,792 from the “ 16 ” Force Main to Buffalo WWPS ” Construction for “ 16 ” Force Main to Buffalo WWPS ” will be funded at a later date FY 23 24 Appropriation from Sewer SDFs will be reduced if additional remaining funds are available from 2021 Water Sewer Revenue Bond proceeds Ms Farmer stated staff recommends approval of the proposed “ Estuary Nitrogen Allocation Purchase and Sale Agreement ” between Johnston County and International Paper Company , approval of the revised capital project budget and adoption of the revised capital project ordinance At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Ms Farmer stated there is a side stream of reclaimed water and there is a program whereby the County has several farms , the Johnston County Country Club , and a lumber company that uses the reclaimed water She stated this program is expected to expand over time ; however , customers are needed that are going to use it daily throughout all seasons and not just in the summertime when there is drought She stated staff does plan to continue to utilize and grow that program over time as users are identified Upon a question by Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Ms Farmer stated the reclaimed water program comes out to economic viability and available funding for that program She stated there are projects in the Capital Improvements Plan to continue to expand the program when there are opportunities to do so Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the Estuary Nitrogen Allocation Purchase and Sale Agreement between Johnston County and International Paper Company , approved the revised capital project budget as presented , adopted the following capital project ordinance and associated budget revision CAPITAL PROJECT ORDINANCE FOR THE NITROGEN NUTRIENT CREDIT ACQUISITION 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 amended Section 1 The project authorized is the County’s Nitrogen Nutrient Credit Acquisition Project the “ Project ” , which includes the purchase of nitrogen credit allocation from private mitigation banks in order to secure additional nitrogen allocation for the County’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NPDES discharge permit The Project is to be financed by a portion of the County’s Water and Sewer System Revenue Bonds , Series 2021 the “ 2021 Revenue Bonds ” , appropriations from the County’s Wastewater System Development Fees Reserve Fund the “ WW SDF Reserve Fund ” , and appropriations from the County’s Wastewater Fund “ Fund 68 ” fund balance Page6800 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued Section 2 The officers of the County are hereby directed to proceed with the capital Project within the terms of the Bond Order , the Master Trust Indenture and the First Supplemental Trust Agreement authorizing and securing the 2021 Revenue Bonds collectively the “ 2021 Revenue Bond Documents ” and the budget contained herein Section 3 The following amounts are appropriated for the Project Nitrogen Nutrient Credit Acquisition 15,800,000 Costs of Issuance 127,839 Total 15,927,839 Section 4 The following revenues are anticipated to be available to complete this Project Water and Sewer System Revenue Bonds 6,500,000 WW SDF Reserve Fund Appropriation 2,500,000 Fund 68 Fund Balance Appropriation 1,427,839 Future WW SDF Reserve Fund and or Fund 68 Fund Balance Appropriations 5,500,000 15,927,839 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 2021 Revenue Bond Documents shall be met Section 6 Funds may be advanced from Fund 68 for the purpose of making payments as due Reimbursement requests from the 2021 Revenue Bonds trustee and invested 2021 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 2nd day of October , 2023 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 83 85651800 Construction 1,637,79200 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 1,637,79200 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 83 856537918 Water & Sewer Revenue Bond Proceeds 1,637,79200 TOTAL NET REVENUE 1,637,79200 12 Appointments Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr announced that the votes for the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and the Moccasin Creek Service District Board would be completed by written ballots Ballots were distributed to the Commissioners who completed their votes , signed the ballots , and submitted them to the Board to collect upon adjournment The Chairman stated the votes will be tallied this afternoon and results announced at the 6 00 pm meeting Note At the 6 00 pm meeting , the Chairman announced the following Alcoholic Beverage Control Board – D Lee Jackson was appointed for a three year term ending October 31 , 2026 Moccasin Creek Service District Board - Jeff Holt and Richard D Braswell were reappointed for two year terms ending October 31 , 2025 13 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews reported on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of August 2023 , as follows Enforced Collections August 2023 YTD 23 24 Wage Garnishments 36 43 Bank Attachments 15 23 Levies 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed August 2023 0 Pending 4Page7801 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued Dollars Collected August 2023 0 Sale Date No sale scheduled at this time Levy Amount and Collections to Date 2023 Real and Personal Levy 2022 Real and Personal Levy As of August 31 , 2023 As of August 31 , 2022 166,281,25857 Levy 169,065,82571 Levy 13,319,06905 Payments 11,995,01073 Payments 152,962,18952 Balance 157,070,81498 Balance 0801 Collected 0709 Collected + 092 RMV – NCVTS Collections August 2023 August 2022 2,005,53290 1,943,45633 YTD 23 24 - 3,903,05224 YTD 22 23 - 3,804,77055 14 Manager Reports and Comments County Manager Rick Hester stated he and Finance Director Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb would like to schedule individual meetings with the Commissioners soon to discuss capital planning and finances 15 Board Reports and Comments Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris recognized Social Services Interim Director Ben Rose and Income Maintenance Administrator II Renee Smith Vice Chairman Harris thanked them for all their hard work and dedication Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr thanked staff for their work on the alternate delivery methods workshop held at the Agricultural Center recently Chairman Lawter spoke on the great panel of speakers consisting of Johnston County Utilities Engineering Manager Kim Rineer and Johnston County Schools Facilities Construction Manager Brooks Moore He noted the workshop was very informative and will help the Board to make decisions on future delivery methods Chairman Lawter stated a lot of positive feedback was received Chairman Lawter asked the Commissioners and staff to begin looking at their calendars for a Strategic Planning Session to be held in February of next year 16 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 3 – Attorney - Client Privilege and 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 for the purposes of consulting with an attorney employed by the Board in order to preserve the attorney - client privilege pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 3 and to establish or instruct staff concerning the negotiation of the price and terms of a contract concerning the acquisition of real property pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 5 No action was taken Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote Page8802 October 2 , 2023 – 10 00 am Continued There being no further business , Commissioner Tony Braswell moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 11 10 am RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Chairman Dana G Cuddington , Clerk to the BoardPage