Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes - March 16, 2026 6:00 PM

10 145 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners March 16 , 2026 6 00 pm The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , March 16 , 2026 at 6 00 pm in the Commissioners Meeting Room , Johnston County Courthouse Annex , Smithfield , North Carolina The following members were present Present Chairman Patrick E Harris , Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Ted G Godwin , April Stephens , Bill Stovall , Michelle Pace Davis and Mike Rose 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 Patrick E Harris called the meeting to order at 6 00 pm Commissioner Ted G Godwin opened the meeting with an invocation Commissioner April Stephens led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented 2 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Mike Rose , seconded by Commissioner April Stephens , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the consent agenda items as follows A Approval of Minutes – February 16 , 2026 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 Dasu Drive , Suhani Lane and Ravibha Court – Barbour Farm – Wilson’s Mills Township Maxwell Farm Lane – Maxwell Farm – Micro Township C Johnston County Public Utilities – Request to Declare Vehicles as Surplus Per a request from 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 Johnston County Sheriffs Office Asset No Year Vehicle Type Mileage 18304 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Ext 4X4 251,947 18118 2005 Chevrolet Colorado 210,471 15040 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Ext 4X4 255,949 15041 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Ext 4X4 210,524 14302 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 168,544 13489 2016 Ford F150 229,911 157,646 13765 2018 Ford F150 187,654 13766 2018 Ford F150 192,500 13876 2019 Ford F150 184,419 13875 2019 Ford F150 174,464 14570 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500Page146 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued D Resolution Supporting NCDOT Statewide Project Funds Per a request by the North Carolina Department of Transportation , the Board adopted the following resolution supporting the use of NCDOT Statewide Project Funds to fund road improvements traffic signal at the intersection of SR 1010 Cleveland Road and SR 1562 Steel Bridge Road RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE REQUEST FOR NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATEWIDE PROJECT FUNDS FOR ROAD IMPROVEMENTS AT THE INTERSECTION OF SR 1010 CLEVELAND ROAD AND SR 1562 STEEL BRIDGE ROAD WHEREAS , NCDOT has a currently funded project SS - 6204BB to install a traffic signal at the intersection of SR 1010 Cleveland Road and SR 1562 Steel Bridge Road , WHEREAS , NCDOT plans to add a left turn lane on SR 1010 Cleveland Road at SR 1562 Steel Bridge Road to accompany the traffic signal installation , WHEREAS , NCDOT intends to fund the preliminary engineering , right of way acquisitions , utility relocations and construction necessary for the roadway widening through High Impact Low Cost funds NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County that 1 Johnston County desires the installation of a left turn lane and traffic signal at the intersection of SR 1010 Cleveland Road and SR 1562 Steel Bridge Road to improve safety ; and 2 Johnston County authorizes the North Carolina Department of Transportation to submit a “ Request for Statewide Project Funds ” to help finance the proposed roadway construction ; and th 3 This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption this the 16 day of March , 2026 E Johnston County Emergency Services – Fire Insurance District Division Resolution , adopted as follows RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR THE RELOCATION OF ADJOINING BOUNDARY LINES OF FIRE INSURANCE DISTRICTS IN JOHNSTON COUNTY , NORTH CAROLINA WHEREAS , pursuant to NC General Statute § 153A - 233 , counties may designate fire districts or parts of existing districts and prescribe the boundaries thereof for insurance grading purposes Fire Insurance Districts ; and WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners Board discussed and considered the relocation of adjoining boundary lines of the following Fire Insurance Districts at a properly noticed regularly held meeting on March 16 , 2026 at 6 00 pm in the Commissioners Meeting Room at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield , North Carolina Wilsons Mills Fire Insurance District and Wynn Four Oaks Fire Insurance District ; and WHEREAS , the Board has determined it is in the best interest of the citizens of Johnston County to relocate the adjoining boundaries of said Fire Insurance Districts as shown on the map attached hereto and incorporated by reference ; and NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED BY the Johnston County Board of Commissioners , meeting in regular session at Smithfield , North Carolina , on March 16 , 2026 , that the Fire Insurance Districts of Johnston County are hereby revised and the boundary lines relocated in accordance and consistently with the map attached hereto and incorporated by reference , and as represented in the GIS produced maps certified by the County Fire Marshal , to take effect immediately upon the adoption of this resolution th Adopted this the 16 day of March , 2026 Page147 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued F Budget Revisions , approved as follows Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59157050 Non - Major Capital Assets 6,00905 10 59207050 Non - Major Capital Assets 14,48114 10 59257050 Non - Major Capital Assets 5,27459 10 59457050 Non - Major Capital Assets 16,63622 10 59607050 Non - Major Capital Assets 4,37500 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 46,77600 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 591534154 Medicaid 6,00905 10 592034154 Medicaid 14,48114 10 592534154 Medicaid 5,27459 10 594534154 Medicaid 16,63622 10 596034154 Medicaid 4,37500 46,77600 TOTAL NET REVENUE Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59700200 Salaries & Wages 68,07200Page148 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 68,07200 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 597034183 Mental Hlth - State Non UCR 68,07200 68,07200 TOTAL NET REVENUE Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59600200 Salaries & Wages 4,38900 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 4,38900 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 596034155 State Grant 4,38900 TOTAL NET REVENUE 4,38900 Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52000411 Professional Service Hospital 69468 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 69468 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 520033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 69468 TOTAL NET REVENUE 69468 Library REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 18 44500200 Salaries & Wages 30000 18 44500300 Salaries Part - Time 2,00000 18 44503305 Books - Main 3,12700 18 44503307 Books – Children 4,57000 18 44503318 Processing 1,50000 18 44503332 Network System Maintenance 1,70000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 9,19700 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 18 445033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 2,07000 18 445033406 Gifts - Friends 6,00000 18 445033601 Fines and Fees 1,12700 9,19700 TOTAL NET REVENUE Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 51001700 Vehicles 24,31892 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 24,31892 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 24,31892 TOTAL NET REVENUE 24,31892PagePage pageNumber5149 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Social Services REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 61001400 Travel 28310 10 61004515 Program Expense 83316 10 61101909 Crisis 59627 10 61101911 Progress Energy Neighbor Fund 7906 10 61101917 LIEAP 1,80000 10 61401902 State County General Assistance 13,18917 10 61401905 IV - E Foster Care 17550 10 61401906 State Foster Care 4,35390 10 61451905 IV - E Foster Care 91148 10 61451906 State Foster Care 4,35389 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 26,57553 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 610034123 Social Services Administration 26,57553 TOTAL NET REVENUE 26,57553 Special Appropriations REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 58555300 Institute of Government 9,35100 10 58556358 JCATS ROAP Grant 316,50100 10 46007400 Capital Outlay 27,91200 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 353,76400 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 585534177 DOT ROAP Grant 353,76400 TOTAL NET REVENUE 353,76400 3 Public Comments None 4 Proclamation – Recognition of National Surveyors Week Mike Krauss , President of the Johnston County Chapter of the North Carolina Society of Surveyors , presented a proclamation for the Board’s consideration for National Surveyors Week Mr Krauss introduced Mr Shane Strickland who is the current President of the North Carolina Society of Surveyors Mr Strickland thanked the Board for recognizing surveyors , noting their early role in Johnston Countys history and the ongoing contributions of local surveyors Chairman Patrick E Harris invited the attending surveyors to stand and be acknowledged Commissioner Ted G Godwin mentioned that in recent meetings , surveyors have been very productive regarding the Unified Development Ordinance discussions Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr read the following proclamation aloud and moved for its adoption Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS – PROCLAMATION IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL SURVEYORS WEEK MARCH 15 - 21 , 2026PagePage pageNumber6150 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued WHEREAS , surveyors are relied upon professionals who are essential to the orderly growth and development of our communities , providing accurate measurement , boundary determination , mapping , and land information that form the foundation of property ownership , infrastructure development , and construction ; and WHEREAS , since the early days of this country’s record keeping , surveyors have been serving as community leaders , statespersons , mentors , creators , and presidents of our great nation and were instrumental in the formation of the layout of property boundaries in the United States ; and WHEREAS , surveyors throughout the State of North Carolina , including Johnston County , have advanced the profession through technological innovation , improved measurement practices , and contributions to transportation design and infrastructure , adding significantly to community planning , record keeping , and responsible development ; and WHEREAS , the continued accuracy , reliability , and integrity of land development and public infrastructure in Johnston County and across North Carolina depend upon the expertise and professionalism of surveyors ; and WHEREAS , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners recognizes the contribution of surveyors and joins in the recognition of National Surveyors Week , honoring the contributions of these skilled professionals and encourages greater public awareness in the critical role they play in shaping our community and ensuring its continued growth and prosperity NOW , THEREFORE , THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS , do hereby proclaim March 15 through March 21 , 2026 as Surveyors Week in Johnston County , and encourages all citizens to recognize and celebrate the important contributions surveyors make to our county and state th Adopted this the 16 day of March , 2026 5 Finance – Resolution for Financing the Clayton High School Rebuild Project The Chairman introduced the following resolution , a summary of which had been provided to each Commissioner , a copy of which was available with the Clerk to the Board and which was read by title RESOLUTION RELATING TO LONG - TERM INSTALLMENT CONTRACT FINANCINGS OF PUBLIC SCHOOL PROJECTS IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT UP TO [ 134,500,000 ] ; AUTHORIZING INTERIM INSTALLMENT CONTRACT FINANCINGS FOR SUCH PROJECTS IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT UP TO [ 134,500,000 ] ; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY BY THE JOHNSTON COUNTY FINANCE CORPORATION OF ONE OR MORE SERIES OF LIMITED OBLIGATION BONDS AND OR CERTIFICATES OF PARTICIPATION RELATED THERETO ; AND CALLING REQUIRED PUBLIC HEARING WHEREAS , the Board of Commissioners desires to undertake a proposed plan of financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to [ 134,500,000 ] , which plan would involve the entry by the County into one or more long - term installment financing contract s with the Johnston County Finance Corporation the “ Corporation ” or one or more other third parties pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 160A - 20 , as amended , the proceeds of which would be used to pay all or a portion of the costs of i design , acquisition , construction , installation , renovation and equipping of one or more new or used buildings to be used as public school facilities in Johnston County including , without limitation , the design , acquisition , construction , installation and equipping of a new replacement public high school for the existing Clayton High School facility , including acquisition of necessary land , easements and rights - of - way , ii site development including , without limitation , demolition of any existing structures , iii any and all related utilities relocation and iv any other real and or personal property improvements related to any of the foregoing and v any “ preliminary expenditures ” related to the foregoing architectural , engineering , surveying , soil testing , reimbursement bond issuance and similar costs that are incurred prior to commencement of acquisition or construction , but excluding land acquisition , site preparation and similar costs incident to commencement of construction collectively , the “ 2026 Projects ” , and under said one or more long - term installment financing contract s the County would secure the repayment by the County of the moneys advanced pursuant to such one or more long - term installment financing contract s by granting a security interest in and lien on all or some portion of the 2026 Projects and or all or some portion of the real property upon which the 2026 Projects are located ; WHEREAS , as part of said proposed plan of financing , the Corporation may also execute and deliver one or more series of Limited Obligation Bonds and or Certificates of Participation in said one or more long - term installment financing contract s in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding [ 134,500,000 ] to finance thePagePage pageNumber7151 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued advancement of moneys to the County pursuant to said one or more long - term installment financing contract s between the County and the Corporation or one or more other third parties ; WHEREAS , as part of the proposed plan of financing for the 2026 Projects , the Board of Commissioners further desires to authorize interim financing for all or some portion of the 2026 Projects in an aggregate principal amount of up to [ 134,500,000 ] , which would involve the entry by the County into one or more short - term installment financing contract s with one or more third parties pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 160A - 20 , as amended , the proceeds of which would be used to provide interim financing for all or some portion of the 2026 Projects pending execution and delivery of said one or more long - term financing contract s and the related Limited Obligation Bonds and or Certificates of Participation , if any , and under said one or more short - term installment financing contract s the County would secure the repayment by the County of the moneys advanced pursuant to such short - term installment financing contract s by granting a security interest in and lien on all or some portion of the 2026 Projects and or all or some portion of the real property upon which the Projects are located ; WHEREAS , as part of said proposed plan of financing , the Corporation may also execute and deliver one or more series of Limited Obligation Bonds and or Certificates of Participation in said one or more short - term installment financing contract s in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding [ 134,500,000 ] to finance the advancement of moneys to the County pursuant to said one or more short - term installment financing contract s between the County and the Corporation or one or more other third parties ; and WHEREAS , North Carolina General Statutes § 160A - 20 , as amended , requires that the Board of Commissioners must hold a public hearing concerning the one or more short - term installment financing contract s , the one or more long - term installment financing contract s and the transactions contemplated thereby and associated therewith , with notice of said public hearing to be published once at least 10 days before the date of the public hearing ; NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners , as follows Section 1 The Board of Commissioners hereby finds and confirms that i the 2026 Projects and the financing thereof by said one or more short - term installment financing contract s and one or more long - term installment financing contract s is necessary and expedient for the County ; ii financing of the 2026 Projects by said one or more short - term installment financing contract s and one or more long - term installment financing contract s , under the circumstances , is preferable to a bond issue by the County ; iii the sums to fall due under said one or more short - term installment financing contract s and one or more long - term installment financing contract s are adequate and not excessive for their proposed purpose ; iv the County’s debt management procedures and policies are good and its debt will continue to be managed in strict compliance with law ; v the increase in taxes , if any , necessary to meet the sums to fall due under said one or more short - term installment financing contract s and one or more long - term installment financing contract s will not be excessive ; and vi the County is not in default regarding any of its debt service obligations Section 2 As required by § 160A - 20 of the North Carolina General Statutes , as amended , a public hearing shall be held by the Board of Commissioners on April 6 , 2026 at 10 00 am , or as soon thereafter as practicable , in the Commissioners ’ Meeting Room in the Johnston County Courthouse Annex in Smithfield , North Carolina , concerning the proposed execution of said one or more short - term installment financing contract s and related documents , the proposed execution of said one or more long - term installment financing contract s and related documents , the proposed financing of the 2026 Projects and any other transactions associated therewith The Clerk to the Board of Commissioners is directed to cause a notice of such public hearing , substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A , to be published once in a qualified newspaper of general circulation within the County not less than 10 days prior to said public hearing Section 3 The appropriate officers of the County are hereby authorized and directed to do any and all things necessary , appropriate or convenient to effectuate the foregoing and the proposed plan of financing , including without limitation filing one or more applications with the North Carolina Local Government Commission seeking approval of the plan of financing or any component thereof , the publication of any required notices related thereto , consideration and negotiation of proposals from one or more third parties regarding said one or more short - term installment financing contract s included in the proposed plan of financing , consideration and negotiation of proposals from one or more underwriters or one or more other third parties regarding said one or more long - term installment financing contract s included in the proposed plan of financing , and consideration and negotiation of the terms of the proposed plan of financing or any component thereof and the relevant legal documentation Section 4 The appointment of Maynard Nexsen PC , as bond counsel ; Davenport & Company , LLC as financial adviser ; and Wells Fargo Bank , National Association Sr and Robert W Baird & Co , as underwriters for any public offering of any obligations , is approved Section 5 This resolution shall take effect upon its passage PagePage pageNumber8152 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Upon motion of Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , the foregoing resolution entitled “ RESOLUTION RELATING TO LONG - TERM INSTALLMENT CONTRACT FINANCINGS OF PUBLIC SCHOOL PROJECTS IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT UP TO [ 134,500,000 ] ; AUTHORIZING INTERIM INSTALLMENT CONTRACT FINANCINGS FOR SUCH PROJECTS IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT UP TO [ 134,500,000 ] ; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY BY THE JOHNSTON COUNTY FINANCE CORPORATION OF ONE OR MORE SERIES OF LIMITED OBLIGATION BONDS AND OR CERTIFICATES OF PARTICIPATION RELATED THERETO ; AND CALLING REQUIRED PUBLIC HEARING ” was passed by the following vote Ayes Chairman Patrick E Harris , Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Ted G Godwin , April Stephens , Bill Stovall , Michelle Pace Davis and Mike Rose Noes None 6 Rezoning Conditional Use Case 25 - 15 – Applicant Prologis , Inc Decision Tabled from the March 2 , 2026 6 00 pm Meeting Case 25 - 15 Petition to rezone 2838 acres located at Cleveland Road SR1010 and Pierce Road SR 1546 in the Cleveland Township from Agricultural Residential AR and Interstate Highway Interchange IHI to Industrial 2 - Conditional Zoning I2 - CZ Tax ID 06D01007H Owner Gayle S Matthews Applicant Prologis , Inc Conditional Zoning Request Multiple Heavy Industrial Uses Planning Director Braston Newton recalled that Case 25 - 15 is a petition to rezone 2838 acres located at Cleveland Road SR1010 and Pierce Road SR 1546 in the Cleveland Township from Agricultural Residential and Interstate Highway Interchange to Industrial 2 - Conditional Zoning He noted the required public hearing on this case was held at the Board’s March 2 , 2026 6 00 pm meeting , and a decision was tabled by the Board until this meeting Mr Newton shared the following revised conditions with the Board that were submitted by the applicant and noted that new exclusions are highlighted in red for clarity He pointed out Condition # 10 which has been added as further buffering for the western and eastern boundaries in addition to required Class C buffers PagePage pageNumber9153 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr asked if the items listed in red were in addition to the items presented at the last meeting Mr Newton confirmed that the red - listed items have been additions since the last meeting and also noted there are some minor changes proposed He stated for example , boat manufacturing was previously listed as a broad category , but now the applicant is requesting that boat sales be permitted He stated additionally , there is the matter of the landscape buffer with new plantings added along both the eastern and western boundaries He stated the intention is to provide a visual screen for neighboring areas on the western side for Cheryl Place , and there is already a riparian buffer with mainly deciduous trees He stated on the eastern boundary , the rear of the building faces Cleveland Road where there are 18 truck parking spaces , and the proposed buffer aims to improve aesthetics there as well Commissioner Mike Rose asked about the depth of the buffer between the proposed site and the nearby housing subdivision Page0154 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Newton responded that the applicant will be addressing this , as staff does not have precise information at this time Commissioner Bill Stovall asked about the letter submitted by Ms Sarah Shaw , who expressed concerns about heavy industrial operations being located next to residential homes He asked if heavy industrial is allowed under the listed uses Mr Newton stated some uses under the I - 2 classification permit heavy industrial activity according to the ordinance He stated it appears that this approval is for a multi - tenant use rather than a single occupant for one or both buildings Commissioner Stovall stated there appears to be some confusion regarding the manufacturing uses listed in red , which indicate operations except light industrial and fabrication uses are allowed He stated this creates mixed signals about what constitutes heavy industrial use Chairman Patrick E Harris requested to hear from the applicant Attorney Jason Barron , 434 Fayetteville Street , Suite 2200 , Raleigh , Morningstar Law Group , representing the applicant Prologis , addressed the Board Mr Barron noted the buffer to the west varies from about 120 feet at its narrowest point to approximately 250 feet at its widest point He stated the planned landscaping will be a 15 - foot strip next to the proposed drive aisle Mr Barron stated to clarify the nature of the intended use , manufacturing uses operations are prohibited , but light industrial and fabrication uses are allowed as defined by the ordinance He stated this ensures the intent excludes heavy industry while allowing for light industrial operations Commissioner Stovall asked where does heavy industrial fit into these regulations Mr Barron responded there are several uses currently listed , and he would defer to the Planning Director to provide further clarification on the ordinance Commissioner Stovall stated his question concerns whether heavy industrial uses are permitted under the conditional terms , since the only defined acceptable uses are light industrial and fabrication activities He stated this suggests that heavy industrial operations are generally not allowed within this conditional use framework Mr Barron stated the wording of the condition defaults to the heavy industrial classification except where prohibited uses are specified on the list Commissioner Ted G Godwin commented that given the comprehensive nature of the list in the conditions , it appears that all major heavy industrial activities have been excluded ; therefore , it seems that heavy industrial uses are not permitted Mr Barron confirmed Commissioner Godwin’s comments At the inquiry of the Chairman , Mr Barron confirmed his client’s agreement with the revised conditions as submitted Vice Chairman Lawter pointed out that although it is not highlighted in red in the conditions , at the last meeting it was agreed to prohibit data centers because that was a major concern by the residents Chairman Harris agreed and noted Condition # 9 states that the site shall not be used as a data center Mr Barron confirmed this is correct Commissioner April Stephens indicated that it is important for the public to understand that if the request is approved and the applicant does not comply with the conditions as agreed upon , there are procedures in place to address non - compliance She asked for staff to elaborate Mr Newton explained that if the request is approved , the next step is for the applicant to create a more detailed design and submit it for site plan review He stated this submission would include not just the landscape plan , but also infrastructure details , stormwater management , erosion and sedimentation control , as well as building elevations He reported the Technical Review Committee TRC , made up of different Johnston County government agencies , would review the design alongside the North Carolina Department of Transportation to determine if any road improvements are needed for driveway permits He stated after TRC review , a letter ofPage1155 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued approval or development permit is issued so the project can proceed He stated inspections occur periodically throughout construction to ensure everything aligns with the approved conditions Mr Newton stated when the project is complete , the department grants approval for the applicant to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy CO , allowing use of the property as intended ; or it can be delayed until all requirements are satisfied Mr Newton continued that any required buffers must be maintained permanently and if this fails at any time , staff can conduct a windshield survey and remedy the situation by issuing a notice of violation He stated if issues persist , it could nullify the conditional zoning and the permitted uses could be revoked He stated individuals can also report concerns regarding the buffer and staff will review these issues to ensure they are addressed appropriately and remain in compliance He stated with regards to the end users of this multi - tenant property , the Planning Staff collaborates closely with the Building Inspections Department before any tenant occupies space within the development He stated staff verifies all provided information and confirms that the proposed occupancy type complies with conditional zoning requirements Commissioner Stephens stated her point is that she wants to emphasize that there is an established process in place and staff can enforce compliance to guarantee that the commitments to citizens are both clear and accurate Commissioner Rose referenced Condition # 8 which requires the applicant to secure a North Carolina Department of Transportation driveway permit He asked for clarification on the Boards authority regarding the driveway permit , specifically , the Board’s ability to restrict truck movement to prevent left turns onto Pierce Road Mr Newton stated the Board does have the authority to negotiate such conditions , and if mutually agreed upon with the applicant , these stipulations can be incorporated into the rezoning approval Chairman Harris deferred to the Board for further deliberation or a motion Commissioner Godwin commented that after extensive discussion and review , he thinks the list of conditions can protect all parties involved Decision on Rezoning Case 25 - 15 Case 25 - 15 Petition to rezone 2838 acres located at Cleveland Road SR1010 and Pierce Road SR 1546 in the Cleveland Township from Agricultural Residential AR and Interstate Highway Interchange IHI to Industrial 2 - Conditional Zoning I2 - CZ Tax ID 06D01007H Owner Gayle S Matthews Applicant Prologis , Inc Conditional Zoning Request Multiple Heavy Industrial Uses Motion Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adopt the Statement of Consistency Resolution and approve the rezoning request with conditions listed and agreed upon by the applicant , for Case 25 - 15 Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr seconded the motion Discussion Commissioner Mike Rose asked about the driveway permit and if there should be discussion on restricting the direction vehicles can enter and exit the site Commissioner Michelle Pace Davis stated her concern relates to public safety She stated for instance , if there was an accident or another emergency and someone needed to turn left to exit the property , prohibiting left turns could be problematic She stated her hesitancy arises because , in emergencies , people might need a different way out , and limiting left turns could restrict options Commissioner Davis stated typically , she expects most traffic will turn right , but her only hesitation about restricting left turns is related to emergencies and making sure there is always a viable exit Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated additionally , when headed to Highway 50 , if the goal is to go south , it makes sense to go out on Veterans Parkway , but if heading north , it makes sense to go out on Cleveland Road Page2156 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr noted the testimony at the last meeting suggested that around 20 trucks were expected to make that left turn on Pierce Road He agreed that the easier route may be to take a right onto Pierce and then left on to Cleveland especially since there is a free - flowing lane However , he stated if the County restricts left turns out of the property , it might unintentionally limit left turns in , particularly without any knowledge of planned transportation improvements which could make traffic movements more complicated and create bigger problems Commissioner April Stephens stated everyone wants to reduce potential traffic on Pierce Road , but it is unclear if there is a solution that would not create a larger issue Commissioner Stephens spoke on the difficulties of such rezoning requests indicating that ultimately in this case , it is in line with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the property is contiguous with other commercial areas Vote The motion to adopt the following resolution and approve the request carried by unanimous vote RESOLUTION FOR CASE NUMBER 25 - 15 RESOLUTION APPROVING ZONING AMENDMENT AND ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF CONSISTENCY REGARDING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAPS OF JOHNSTON COUNTY WHEREAS , pursuant to NC Gen Stat § 160D - 605 , prior to adopting or rejecting a zoning amendment , the governing board is required to adopt a statement approving or rejecting the zoning amendment and describe if the amendment is consistent or inconsistent with the comprehensive zoning plan and why the board considers the action taken to be reasonable and in the public interest ; WHEREAS , the Johnston County Planning Board has reviewed a proposed amendment to The Official Zoning Maps of Johnston County , for parcel identified as Tax ID 06D01007H located on Pierce Road near the intersection Cleveland Road in Cleveland Township , from Agricultural Residential AR to Industrial 2 - Conditional Zoning I2 - CZ WHEREAS , based on a review of the proposed amendment the Planning Board found that the proposed amendment is consistent with the Johnston County Comprehensive Land Use Plan and updates and further recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve the proposed amendment ; and WHEREAS , this Board has reviewed and considered the above written recommendation of the Planning Board and has held a public hearing on the proposed amendment , and this Board desires to approve the zoning amendment and adopt a statement describing why the adoption of the proposed amendment is consistent with the Johnston County Comprehensive Land Use Plan and updates , and the Board considers the proposed amendment to be reasonable and in the public interest NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT ORDAINED BY THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS THAT 1 This Board finds and determines that the adoption of the proposed amendment to the Official Zoning Maps of Johnston County is consistent with the Johnston County Land Use Plan based on the following a Although the property lies within a regional mixed use center place type pursuant to the adopted future land use map , which is described as “ centers of activity that include a mix of retail , restaurant , service , office , and civic and institutional uses ” , the proposed limited industrial uses are similar in intensity as existing development in the general area of the subject parcel 2 This Board finds and determines that it is reasonable and in the public interest to approve the proposed amendment because a The scale and intensity of the proposed conditional development is consistent with the intensity of existing development and future development as described for the regional mixed use place type b The development , if operated within the approved conditional requirements , minimizes impacts to the community with regard to infrastructure and environment 3 This Board approves the proposed zoning amendment from Agricultural Residential to Industrial 2 - Conditional Zoning Page3157 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued th Adopted this the 16 day of March , 2026 Page4158 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued 7 Manager Reports and Comments County Manager Rick Hester took a moment to commend Emergency Services Director Ryan Parker along with his team and Nick Petro from the National Weather Service for their collaboration earlier today during the severe weather event Mr Hester reported that he plans to keep the Board updated on the budget process every few weeks and noted that staff has been working on the budget since late February He stated the process has many moving parts and occasional surprises , so it is approached steadily and conservatively He explained that property taxes make up around 60 of the County’s revenue and staff has met with the Tax Office to discuss estimates , including recent property listings He noted that businesses have until April 15 , 2026 to submit their personal property information , which will further inform the figures by late April Mr Hester stated sales tax remains another significant revenue source and while estimating the sales tax can be challenging , staff uses all available resources to make the best yearly projections He stated the Countys rate typically ranges from 5 to 6 , though it has been higher in the past He stated years ago , North Carolina Counties helped fund Medicaid , but the State took over and adjusted sales tax shares accordingly He stated some counties , including Johnston , receive a hold harmless payment due to this shift , but he noted that amount is declining as Medicaid expansion increases state responsibility Mr Hester noted that with regards to expenses , staff salaries remain a priority for the County Commissioners He stated there will be requests for new positions , mostly in Public Safety and Utilities , aligning with the priorities in those areas Mr Hester reported he has met twice with Johnston County Schools Superintendent Dr David Pearce and Johnston Community College President Dr Vern Linquist , and those conversations have been very productive He stated each has expressed their system’s needs , and he has provided insight into the County’s efforts to collaborate within budget constraints He stated these discussions rank among the most constructive he has experienced in his 27 years in this field , and he sincerely appreciates the mutual respect He stated while there may be occasional disagreements , they have been approached both professionally and respectfully , which is essential Mr Hester continued that regarding debt service , Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb referenced the upcoming sale for the Clayton High School project He stated the resolution is for 1345 million ; however , if the County receives a premium from the winning bidder on the notes , it may allow for a reduced actual debt amount He stated the County is selling part of the 2022 and 2024 bonds , so debt service must be planned for in next years budget He noted this year , the fire departments will submit their budgets under the countywide fire district , and the Fire Commission will provide more detailed information to the Board Mr Hester stated in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes , as the County Manager , he is responsible for presenting a proposed budget ; however , the Board of Commissioners will make the final decisions on the budget and tax rate He offered to answer any questions Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked with the new stores opening in Eastfield in Selma , how soon could the County expect this to impact sales tax revenue Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb reported the numbers are three months behind , so it usually takes about three months to get an idea Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr noted that data shows Hobby Lobby is a top store nationally and positively affects sales tax revenue Commissioner Mike Rose asked about the new debt service for Clayton High School and the bonds Page5159 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued Mr Hester stated staff is estimating an addition of 11 million to next years budget , assuming 5 interest rates , which may improve He stated most debt is 20 - year , fixed - rate notes with the first year as interest only , followed by principal and interest for the remaining years Chairman Patrick E Harris commended Mr Hester and his team for their diligence during the budget season Chairman Harris noted Mr Hester always puts tremendous thought into this process , often times through many sleepless nights He stated the Board appreciates the hard work of Mr Hester , Finance , all the department heads , and staff to ensure the numbers are as accurate as possible He noted one point from the Board’s Strategic Planning Session was the strategic structuring of the County’s debt being crucial for staying on track with repayments , and the County often pays off debts early He stated these factors positively influence the bond rating and the County’s financial stability Commissioner Rose stated the County’s fund balance is managed wisely He stated some might wonder why the County does not just use cash for everything it can , but because the credit rating is excellent , the County actually earns more interest on the funds in reserves than it pays in loan interest Mr Hester noted that the reserves are sometimes used to advance funds for the school system or community college projects , helping to keep things moving Mr McLamb agreed stating the reserves allow the County to initiate projects when needed , providing flexibility He stated for many capital projects , the County frequently pays cash throughout the year , which rating agencies view positively He stated they value the ability to pay cash for certain costs while also recognizing that the County can borrow responsibly for larger projects and repay those debts effectively Commissioner Bill Stovall stated with regards to market volatility , which has intensified since the conflict in the Middle East began , fuel prices have significantly increased , and the stock market has become increasingly unstable He asked if the County’s financial advisor has provided any insights on how these developments might impact the next bond sale Mr Hester agreed that the current market situation is unpredictable and such global and national events are indeed factors the County must consider He stated one positive aspect is that the Countys bonds historically attract strong interest from bidders , which has helped stabilize the borrowing costs He stated the planning estimate is at 5 , though he believes the actual rate will likely be lower However , he cautioned that conditions could change Commissioner Stovall asked if there are any plans to delay the sale until market conditions change Mr Hester stated at this time there is no recommendation to delay the sale He stated that while proceeding may carry some risk , the consensus is to move forward with the financing and reimburse the County for funds already advanced Mr McLamb reported that existing contracts require the County to proceed with the sales as planned and delaying the process would not be beneficial He stated staff anticipates the total borrowing cost will be well below 5 due to the positive reception of the County’s bonds , and in the worst - case scenario , rates may be in the low fours He stated currently , neither County staff nor the financial advisors recommend postponing the bond sale 8 Board Reports and Comments Commissioner Michelle Pace Davis reminded everyone of next weeks public meeting on the Unified rd Development Ordinance UDO scheduled for March 23 at 6 00 pm at the Agriculture Center She noted the meeting will be livestreamed on the County’s YouTube channel and will feature a presentation by staff followed by several break - out stations arranged around the auditorium where attendees can ask questions directly to staff or consultants She stated these stations will operate similarly to those utilized over the summer , allowing participants to engage in a drop - in format Commissioner Davis stated citizens are welcome to arrive at 6 00 pm and hear the full presentation , but may also arrive later at 6 30 pm or 7 00 pm and visit the break - out stations Commissioner Davis noted this meeting will be to update the citizens and get feedback on the latest revision and rd the Board will not be voting on the UDO at the March 23 meeting Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated with regards to Rezoning Case 25 - 15 , the Board held an extensive public hearing two weeks ago on this case and received valuable input from citizens , especially those organized in opposition Commissioner Godwin stated he has always encouraged citizens to get involved and give input He stated the feedback at the public hearing on Case 25 - 15 led to several exceptions in the final approval ;Page6160 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued however , he continues to have concerns about demonstrations Commissioner Godwin stated if the public brings signs and demonstrates , that loses his support He instead invited the public to come and talk to the Commissioners and share their thoughts Commissioner April Stephens spoke on the difficulties associated with the rezoning process and stated the Board makes these decisions for the Countys greater good and they are often hard decisions She stated the Comprehensive Land Use Plan guides the Commissioners , and changes in residential and commercial areas are common Commissioner Stephens stated she appreciates the dialogue with community , and even though she missed the last meeting , she went back and watched the livestream of the public hearing on Case 25 - 15 as well as reviewed all the emails from the community She stated that input greatly impacted what happens on that land and she invited the public to keep sharing that feedback , as it helps the Board make informed decisions Commissioner Stephens stated she believes the Board’s approval of the rezoning case as it relates to the exceptions in the conditions , will result in community - facing businesses for the area Commissioner Stephens also reported that earlier today she had the opportunity to speak with the County’s Emergency Services Department , and although it was not planned , she was able to witness them in action responding to the weather event earlier today Commissioner Stephens stated the County’s emergency operations and facilities are genuinely impressive , and it became clear to her that everyone involved is dedicated to protecting Johnston County’s residents She noted that Commissioner Michelle Pace Davis brought up an excellent point about the upcoming UDO meeting next week and she is looking forward to the breakout sessions because they will give people a chance to focus on what matters most to them She stated often , broad discussions can leave voices unheard , but smaller groups allow the Board to engage in meaningful dialogue and spotlight issues that can drive significant change She stated it is important for this Board to be transparent with citizens as many worry that meetings can lead to unexpected votes Commissioner Stephens stated while nothing is scheduled yet , perhaps the Board can reassure the citizens by sharing when a vote is anticipated , so there is less anxiety about sudden decisions She noted some citizens feel like the Board is paused , while others think the Board is moving ahead too quickly ; however , the Board is actively working through the process but has no intentions of surprising anyone She suggested that discussing the timeline openly may help ease concerns Commissioner Mike Rose commented that rezoning cases can be particularly challenging , and Case 25 - 15 was no exception He stated the Board witnessed significant opposition from a well - organized group that presented valid points Commissioner Rose stated as many have noted , these perspectives played a meaningful role in shaping the final decision He stated when evaluating property like this , especially given its strategic location , the County must consider all potential uses , whether as an industry that creates jobs or as high - rise apartments that could increase traffic and place greater demands on local schools He stated these factors are always weighed carefully in the Board’s deliberations Commissioner Rose stated while there was opposition , he wants residents to know that every decision the Board makes is approached with thorough consideration and diligence Additionally , he stated he is looking forward to working on this year’s budget as it is one of the most important responsibilities the Board undertakes annually , and he values collaborating with Mr McLamb , Mr Hester , and his fellow Commissioners He stated the Board is committed to being responsible stewards of taxpayer funds , recognizing that Commissioners too , are taxpayers subject to the same rates as everyone else He stated he looks forward to addressing the budget and tackling upcoming projects together Chairman Patrick E Harris stated the upcoming UDO meeting at the Agriculture Center on March 23 at 6 00 pm is very important He stated it is also important for everyone to understand that this is an ongoing process , which is why each version of the document is marked as a “ draft ” Chairman Harris stated the Board does not yet know when this process will conclude , but the goal is to address public concerns and ensure fairness for the citizens He stated many changes have already been made based on feedback from community meetings and submissions and he appreciates the Board of Commissioners , the Planning Director , and all the staff for their efforts , and he hopes a product can be delivered that benefits Johnston County and shapes its future He stated public engagement is essential in this process , and this Board values input from citizens Chairman Harris reiterated that the Board is listening and staying involved , and he is optimistic about moving forward Chairman Harris encouraged any citizen that has comments or concerns , to please email or call the Commissioners stating the Board wants to work together to address issues and find the best solutions He stated the UDO is a significant project because the current ordinance has remained untouched for over 20 years ; however , this Board has never backed down from a challenge and is committed to seeing it through to the end 9 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 6 – Personnel Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Mike Rose , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit in closed session for the purposes of personnel pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 6 Page7161 March 16 , 2026 – 6 00 pm Continued No action was taken by the Board Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote There being no further business , Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adjourn Vice Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 7 06 pm Patrick E Harris , Chairman Dana G Cuddington , Clerk to the BoardPage