March 7, 2022 - 10:00 am - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 620 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners March 7 , 2022 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , March 7 , 2022 , 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 , Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , Fred J Smith , Jr , and Richard D Braswell Absent Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris Also Present County Manager Rick J Hester , Clerk to the Board Paula G Woodard , Finance Officer and Deputy County Manager J Chad McLamb , County Attorney Jennifer J Slusser , and Paralegal Deputy Clerk Dana Cuddington Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr called the meeting to order at 10 00 am Commissioner Ted G Godwin opened the meeting with a prayer American Legion Post 141 of Selma led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr noted that Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris is under the weather and unable to attend the meeting today 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 – February 7 , 2022 10 00 am and 6 00 pm B Order to Advertise Tax Liens Pursuant to NCGS § 105 - 369 a and b1 , the total amount of unpaid real estate taxes for 2021 is 4,514,19153 as of January 31 , 2022 To satisfy the requirement of NCGS § 105 - 369 b1 , notices of unpaid delinquent taxes were sent via US mail to the owners of record as of February 1 , 2022 At the request of Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews , the Board adopted the order to authorize the Tax Department to advertise the liens for the delinquent 2021 tax bills C Town of Princeton – Adoption of Revised Resolution Per a request by the Town of Princeton , the Board adopted the following revised resolution original resolution adopted on January 18 , 2022 RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE TOWN OF PRINCETON’S REQUEST TO THE NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO ACCELERATE CONSTRUCTION FOR THE US 70 I42 GOLDSBORO BYPASS TO PRINCETON PROJECT WHEREAS , the NC Department of Transportation NCDOT proposes to upgrade US 70 to interstate standards ; and WHEREAS , the project will upgrade approximately 67 miles of US 70 from the US 70 Goldsboro bypass in Wayne County to west of Pondfield Road SR 2314 Princeton in Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Princeton , accepted the NCDOT Preferred proposed options consisting of ; Option A involving raising US 70 over Rains Mill Road , Segment A Preferred interchange Pearl Edwards compressed Diamond interchange , and Segment B Preferred interchange at the intersection of US 70 and US 70 - A as published , on December 2 , 2019 ; andPage621 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , the delay in the US 70 I42 improvement project has contributed to the drainage issue under US 70 ; and WHEREAS , the Town of Princeton has suffered severe flooding in the areas adjacent to the US 70 corridor ; and WHEREAS , it has been determined to mitigate the severe flooding the US 70 corridor culverts would need to be enhanced ; and WHEREAS , the NCDOT Traffic Engineering Accident Analysis System Strip Analysis Report shows there have been 184 accidents from October 1 , 2017 to September 30 , 2021 ; and WHEREAS , the Strip Analysis Report shows that of the 184 accidents recorded there were 5 fatalities and 89 nonfatal injuries ; and WHEREAS , the Board of Commissioners for the Town of Princeton has requested the NCDOT to consider accelerating construction for the US 70 I42 project ; and WHEREAS , the acceleration of improvements will assist the Town with infrastructure improvements and economic development along the US 70 I42 corridor NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County supports the Town of Princeton’s request to the NCDOT to accelerate construction for the US 70 I42 Goldsboro Bypass to Princeton Project , as Congress has provided funding for the highway transportation improvement and the Town of Princeton infrastructure improvements rely heavily on the culvert improvements under US 70 th Adopted this the 7 day of March 2022 D Solid Waste Services – Surplus of Truck Per a request from the Department of Solid Waste Services , the Board declared the following truck surplus that was involved in an accident and declared a total loss by the insurance carrier 2003 Mack RD 680 S Roll - Off Truck 1M2P264C34M034671 Asset # 18127 E Budget Revisions , approved as follows Airport REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 60 65000400 Legal Fees 90,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 90,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 60 650033990 Fund Balance 90,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 90,00000 Finance REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 50007302 State Capital & Infrastructure Grant Expense 290,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 290,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 500037955 State Capital & Infrastructure Grant 290,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 290,00000 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE Page622 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 10 51000210 Salaries – Overtime 1,61700 10 51001400 Travel 37432 10 51001700 Vehicles 23,71532 10 51003300 Departmental Supplies 1,00000 10 51004300 Special Services 5000 10 51007414 Capital Outlay – Sheriff 30031 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 27,05695 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 110 510032106 Controlled Substance Tax 30031 10 510032509 Insurance Recovery 1,31217 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 25,04447 10 510035104 Sheriff Fees 40000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 27,05695 F Tax Releases & Refunds – 1 15 2022 – 2 15 2022 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 1 19 2022 10 31 39 AM ALassiter 2021 - 83929 2000056234 ROSS , DAVID A 33783 2 4 2022 2 01 50 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202542 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 75242 2 4 2022 2 03 03 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202541 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 73491 2 4 2022 2 03 55 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202540 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 73491 2 4 2022 2 05 06 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202539 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 71346 2 4 2022 2 08 06 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202547 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 17750 2 4 2022 2 09 02 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202546 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 17337 2 4 2022 2 09 48 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202545 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 17337 2 4 2022 2 10 53 PM dwoodward2 2021 - 202544 2000164067 SOUTHEAST PROPERTIES FAMILY 16718 2 7 2022 10 19 39 AM cfutch 2021 - 202783 2000201611 BRINKLEY , GLENN T II 15166 2 8 2022 2 19 37 PM cfutch 2019 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 36,78420 2 8 2022 3 03 54 PM cfutch 2021 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 35,96068 2 8 2022 3 09 40 PM cfutch 2020 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 36,78420 2 8 2022 3 17 32 PM cfutch 2019 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 13,35109 2 8 2022 3 22 08 PM cfutch 2020 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 13,35109 2 8 2022 3 25 07 PM cfutch 2021 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 13,05219 2 14 2022 9 51 18 AM ALassiter 2021 - 202914 2000126323 AMMONS , JAMES MATTHEW 26335 2 14 2022 9 55 44 AM ALassiter 2021 - 203685 2000238440 KOMAR , ROBERT L JR 20956 2 14 2022 9 58 31 AM ALassiter 2022 - 200048 2000014158 BULLOCK , JOHN HENRY JR 87828 2 14 2022 10 02 34 AM ALassiter 2021 - 203417 2000019805 COX , JOHN C 18277 2 14 2022 12 59 26 PM ALassiter 2021 - 202554 2000224791 TURRENTINE , STEVEN JR 13833 2 14 2022 1 21 29 PM ALassiter 2021 - 14831 2000163215 BROOKS BROTHERS GROUP INC 1,07186 Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 1 18 2022 2 47 43 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 58564 2000140747 LEGENDS REAL ESTATE LLC 59275 1 19 2022 3 10 32 PM LOCKBOX 2020 - 54554 2000075819 KNIGHT , EDWARD A 2,02079 1 20 2022 4 17 50 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 110952 2000209886 ACE FUELING LLC 27,89844 1 24 2022 2 44 53 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 5666 2000086601 BAKER , JULIA TERESA 29283 1 24 2022 2 44 53 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 92418 2000162538 STEPHENSON , LYNETTE A 30703 1 27 2022 2 56 17 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 104875 2000096646 WILLIAMS , JOAN S 20567 2 4 2022 8 21 15 AM PHONE 2021 - 97177 2000113458 TOBELL , JUDITH P 10000Page623 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 2 4 2022 3 29 43 PM Jodee 2021 - 69831 2000205584 NEAL ATM INVESTMENTS , LLC 22,51055 Langdon 2 7 2022 9 34 28 AM cfutch 2021 - 120598 2000113761 MORGAN , ADAM DALE 42443 2 7 2022 9 38 57 AM cfutch 2021 - 68083 2000054879 MORGAN , ADAM DALE 1,78034 2 8 2022 3 01 32 PM cfutch 2019 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 42,07538 2 8 2022 3 07 59 PM cfutch 2021 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 35,96068 2 8 2022 3 11 24 PM cfutch 2020 - 2583 2000102734 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I , LLC 38,62341 2 8 2022 3 20 28 PM cfutch 2019 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 15,27157 2 8 2022 3 23 39 PM cfutch 2020 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 14,01864 2 8 2022 3 26 51 PM cfutch 2021 - 2582 2000124883 AMELIA VILLAGE PHASE I LLC 13,05219 2 9 2022 9 14 20 AM cfutch 2021 - 50278 2000012460 JOHNSON , KENNETH E 1,48193 2 9 2022 4 23 21 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 60167 2000192695 LOTT , ARTHEA 1,13713 2 10 2022 4 20 32 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 20651 2000044541 COATS , FRANCIS CHARLES 1,25140 2 11 2022 3 01 49 PM jmorrow 2021 - 30919 2000188065 ELEGANT EVENTS & PLANNING 10000 LLC 2 14 2022 2 45 03 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 32284 2000136329 ENNIS , REGINALD 66132 2 15 2022 2 55 20 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 56737 2000108717 LAVEE HOLT BAILEY REVOCABLE 17798 TRUST 2 15 2022 2 55 20 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 104149 2000098856 WILKERSON , JUDY HUDSON 44285 North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – January 2022 100 + Payee Name Bill # Transaction Refund Total Change # Reason BOND , DANIEL 0064398831 316402020 Military 24068 THOMAS 2967 27035 BOND , DANIEL 0064399109 237497619 Military 25769 THOMAS 20121 6707 52597 GORMAN , 0064240522 316266312 Situs error 000 ABRIAL MARIE 23502 3748 3000 22754 HOWARD , 0064068225 159165242 Adjustment 20988 RICHARD 3378 ARTHUR 24366 MALDONATO , 0064465606 237590406 Military 7169 ANGELIQUE 5696 MARIE 3000 15865 READY 0062298381 318330052 Situs error 000 ROOFING 26115 5384 8705 29436 READY 0058817596 318330056 Situs error 000 ROOFING LLC 42057 8670 14019 47406 0062302386 318330060 Situs error 000PagePage pageNumber5624 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 39586 8160 READY ROOFING LLC 13195 44621 READY 0058730873 318330064 Situs error 001 ROOFING LLC 19561 4032 6521 22049 READY 0058730637 318330068 Situs error 001 ROOFING LLC 19561 4032 6521 22049 READY 0058773073 318330072 Situs error 000 ROOFING LLC 20800 4288 6933 23445 READY 0058772462 318330076 Situs error 000 ROOFING LLC 21579 4448 7192 24323 READY 0046844105 318330080 Situs error 001 ROOFING LLC 11522 2375 3841 12987 3 COVID - 19 & Emergency Rental Assistance Program Updates COVID - 19 Health Director Dr Marilyn Pearson shared a handout with the Board highlighting the COVID cases as of the end of last week She stated the numbers are improving and in February 2022 there were less than 3,000 new cases as compared with 12,000 in January She stated as of Friday , Johnston County has 56,008 cases , 9 hospitalizations , and 435 deaths She reported there are 2,318 414 reinfections and 9,595 1713 breakthrough infections She stated the CDC is now using case rates and hospital capacity and that currently the case rate in Johnston County is 202 100K , while a month ago the County case rate was 1,000 100K She continued that the hospital capacity is less than 10 new admissions in the past 7 days and less than 10 of beds are occupied by COVID patients Dr Pearson stated the County is now in the yellow zone versus red or orange Dr Pearson stated the 7 - day positivity rate is 56 and the vaccine rate is 54 of the total population She stated the outbreaks are down to 7 with 1 cluster She stated testing is still being provided and there are now treatment options available for those that test positive She stated the Health Department continues to provide vaccines Monday through Friday as well as the partners physicians and pharmacies She thanked the staff and partners for providing over 67,000 doses of vaccine since the beginning Dr Pearson reported the monoclonal antibodies and antiviral therapy treatments require a prescription and there is a limited supply , but this is improving as more pharmacies have additional supply available Dr Pearson stated the trends are improving and the data continues to be monitored She added that staff follows the CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services guidance for mask optional and she encouraged those that are classified as high risk to consider wearing masks during high risk situations PagePage pageNumber6625 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked about the effectiveness of the home test kits and if there have been any changes to the current vaccine Dr Pearson stated the home test kits are more accurate if symptoms exist ; however , they are not as effective for general screening She stated for general screening with no symptoms , the PCR test as a follow up is recommended She stated there are companies looking to combine the flu and COVID vaccine for the fall ERA Program Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb provided an update to the Board on the Emergency Rental Assistance ERA Program Funds Mr McLamb reported the ERA Program has worked well and to date almost 83 million has been sent out to citizens in Johnston County serving almost 1,800 households He stated the County is currently in bucket two ERA 2 of its allocation , and almost 40 of that has been paid out He reported the ERA funding from bucket one ERA 1 has been paid out He stated that Johnston County is one of the last counties still administering the program and he anticipates that over 11 million will be sent out in total Mr McLamb stated the administrative expenses allowed under ERA 1 and ERA 2 are quickly being used and he recommended the County stop accepting applications on March 31 , 2022 , or when the funds run out from ERA 2 Mr McLamb stated it is possible those funds will be exhausted by the end of this week He stated there have been more recent instances of fraud as well as a downturn in the number of applications being sent in He stated the process will take two months to finish what is left in the que and of the 113 million that will be spent , he estimates that will assist close to 2,000 households Mr McLamb reported that for the CDBG mortgage assistance , 571,000 of the allocated 900,000 has been spent He stated that program is scheduled to end by September 30 , 2022 Mr McLamb requested the Board to set a cutoff date to receive applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program as March 31 , 2022 , or until the funds are depleted He offered to answer any questions Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated the Board received a letter from a citizen regarding a slow response time from the program Mr McLamb reported staff received the same letter and has followed up on that complaint Mr McLamb stated if a citizen has been in the que for a length of time , they are moved to the front of the que to make sure they receive assistance , if they qualify He stated that avoidance of eviction is the priority Commissioner Richard D Braswell asked for clarification on the ERA funding balance Mr McLamb stated the 63 million of ERA 1 funding has all been spent He stated of the 5 million in ERA 2 funding , almost 2 million has been spent and 22 million has been requested Mr McLamb stated that he anticipates having to cutoff applications by the end of the week and the processing of payments to go through May to close out the process Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried unanimously , the Board voted to set March 31 , 2022 , as the cutoff date to receive applications , or until the funds are depleted whichever is first , for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program 4 Public Comments A Citizen Concern – Kendall Parker Kendall Parker , Ingrams Township , submitted a handout to the Board regarding a shooting range operating near his residence Mr Parker stated that he lives on Teddersville Road in Four Oaks and he asked the Board for help with a situation related to the shooting range Mr Parker stated he met with the Johnston County Planning Department on January 31 , 2022 and was informed by Planning Director Braston Newton that there is no special use or zoning for this , and that the property is zoned Agriculture Residential Mr Parker stated Zoning Enforcement Officer Cameron Taylor visited the site and found it to be out of compliance and the owner was instructed to cease operations Mr Parker stated operations have not ceased and shooting continues to take place throughout the day , weekends and holidays Mr Parker spoke on how the activity has affected his family and others in the area He asked the Board to look into the matter PagePage pageNumber7626 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner Tony Braswell asked County Manager Rick Hester if he knew how long the shooting range has been in operation Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr asked the County Manager to look into the matter County Manager Rick Hester responded that he was not certain how long the range had been in operation , but he would follow up on the matter 5 Public Hearing – Economic Development Incentive Grant Advertised – The News & Observer , The Johnstonian News and The News in Review – February 23 , 2022 Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr opened the public hearing for the purposes of allowing public comment on an Economic Development Incentive Grant Economic Development Director Chris Johnson stated in 2021 Johnston County was fortunate to have project announcements over 400 million that created thousands of jobs He stated that growth would not be possible without the conservative business principles that the citizens hold dear Mr Johnson stated today’s project announcement allows the County to continue the jobs growth journey and allows the residents to have high paying jobs here at home He stated the project presented for the Board’s consideration will hopefully help to change the mass exodus of employees from Johnston County Mr Johnson explained that Edgewater desires to build a 500,000 square foot Class A facility with the ability to expand to one million square feet in Johnston County located on Hamlin Road in the ETJ of the Town of Benson He stated this area is located behind Hamlin Sheet Metal Mr Johnson stated in addition to the over 40 Million investment , the Edgewater project has the ability to create over 300 jobs in the foreseeable future , with an average salary at or over the County average of 43,000 Mr Johnson stated as with all economic development incentive offers from Johnston County , this comes with no risk to the taxpayers , and these incentives only come from the company’s investment He added that if the required benchmarks , as set forth in the agreement , are not met then no incentive is given He reiterated this comes at no risk to the taxpayers of Johnston County Mr Johnston stated this proposal has been vetted and approved by the Johnston County Economic Development Advisory Board , which consists of 14 business , civic , and community leaders and has representation from every municipality in Johnston County He also stated this project and investment projections have been evaluated by Dr Mike Walden , Retired Professor and Economist from North Carolina State University whose report shows that the monetary investment as well as the jobs and ancillary job growth is projected to be over 73 million for the County Mr Johnson requested the Board to favorably consider an Economic Development Incentive Grant for Edgewater Ventures County Attorney Jennifer Slusser presented a draft resolution for the Board’s consideration , for a proposed economic development incentive grant for the project as proposed by EV Benson Land , LLC Edgewater Ventures and described by Mr Johnson Ms Slusser reminded the Board of what is required to be considered when reviewing incentive grant opportunities She continued that there are several factors to consider in making a determination with those being job creation , capital investment , competition , and diversification of the economy Ms Slusser asked the Board to keep these factors in mind and she reviewed the proposed framework of the proposed agreement with Edgewater Ms Slusser stated this is a proposed 40 million capital investment to develop and construct approximately 500,000 square feet of Class A speculative industrial logistics facility space at the I40 I95 corridor in the Banner Township , which is strategically important to Johnston County and will serve as a catalyst for future development in this area Ms Slusser stated the employment commitment for this project is solid at 300 permanent full time jobs with an average annual salary of not less than 43,000 with benefits She stated the capital investment is proposed to be completed by December 2023 and the job creation completed by December 2026 Ms Slusser stated the incentive proposal is a cash grant to be made in five annual payments beginning March 15 , 2024 and continuing through March 15 , 2028 , which are quantified and measured as 50 of the ad valorem taxes paid on eligible investments She stated in this case , the eligible investments are real estate improvements during the investment period Ms Slusser stated under the terms of the agreement , Edgewater commits to 1 make eligible investments of no less than 38 million by December 31 , 2023 ; 2 attain or cause to attain the employment goal of 300 full time permanent employees by December 31 , 2026 ; and 3 provide certification of investments and employment PagePage pageNumber8627 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Ms Slusser stated the grant payments are conditioned upon Edgewater paying in full their ad valorem tax bills for that year for all of its property situated in the County that is subject to ad valorem taxation She stated Edgewater must be current on all payments owed to County ; current on the filing of annual property tax listings ; have no current appeal pending regarding the valuation of the property at the project site ; and not be in violation of any other obligation of Edgewater to the County including all county ordinances and regulations Ms Slusser noted there are recapture provisions if Edgewater does not carry out and maintain the terms of the agreement Ms Slusser offered the following factors for the Board to consider prior to a decision on the grant proposal ? Job Creation Does the project provide the creation of a substantial number of permanent jobs In this case there will be a direct creation of not less than 300 jobs with an average salary of 43,000 According to the Economic Impact Analysis by Dr Mike Walden , the private sector direct and indirect job creation as a result of the investment is 496 jobs ? Capital Investment - Increasing the Tax Base Does the project increase the tax base The proposed capital investment commitment is 38 million According to the Walden Report , the private sector annual operating impact , taking into account all direct , indirect , and induced impacts from the development , is estimated to be in excess of 73 million ? An initial “ but for ” or necessity determination is made that the incentive is required for a project to go forward , typically in a competitive situation In this case , the County was competing with several locations ? The proposed project meets the County’s incentive policies for this type project The EDIGA meets the policies for the programs as more particularly described previously ? Final approval is to be made at a public meeting , properly noticed , and this has been carried out ? A written agreement governs implementation ? Diversifying the Economy Diversification of the economy alongside job creation and increasing the tax base as an indicator of “ net public benefit ” arising from an incentive “ Diversification of the Economy ” refers to significant impacts on sectors of the economy or making a location attractive for additional development This is addressed in the Walden Report , and having spec ready - space available to attract new businesses and finding an end user that will bring jobs to the County meets this purpose Ms Slusser stated the project meets all the above - referenced criteria should the Board choose to approve the grant proposal and she offered to answer any questions Mr Chris Norvell , Edgewater Ventures Group , stated this is an exciting time for Johnston County He stated the process began with a search up and down 1 - 95 and they considered a number of different sites from Robinson County to Nash County He thanked Mr Johnson for his assistance during the process He stated the process was competitive , will bring jobs to the County , and they are appreciative for the support of the Board of Commissioners Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr thanked Mr Norvell and Mr Johnson for their work and for bringing jobs to Johnston County Chairman Lawter called for anyone in the audience that wished to comment to come forward There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing Commissioner Ted G Godwin commented that Benson is a vibrant area of Johnston County , and he is excited for this project Chairman Lawter stated development along the I - 95 corridor has been a strategy of the Economic Development Advisory Board as well as the Board of Commissioners and he is happy to see this project Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following resolution approving an Economic Development Incentive Grant agreement between the County and EV Benson Land , LLC RESOLUTION OF THE JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AUTHORIZING INCENTIVES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTPagePage pageNumber9628 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , the County seeks to promote economic growth and development within its jurisdiction and the social and economic improvement of its citizens , and desires to accelerate the quality and quantity of economic growth and employment opportunities in its jurisdiction by encouraging business enterprises satisfying the aforementioned public purposes and thereby reduce physical , economic and social distress resulting from unemployment and under employments existing in its jurisdiction ; WHEREAS , while Johnston County offers many advantages as a business destination , it suffers from a shortage of ready - to - go industrial , assembly , manufacturing , distribution and warehouse space and desires to promote economic growth and development opportunities in the County ; WHEREAS , the County is in discussions with EV Benson Land , LLC the “ Company ” to induce the Company to locate a new speculative industrial logistics facility the “ Facility ” which will provide Class A speculative building space for additional assembly , manufacturing and distribution purposes on a Project Site in the Banner Township of Johnston County , which is an area strategically important to the County and a valuable asset enhancing the County’s economic development efforts ; WHEREAS , the Company proposes to develop and build a 500,000 + - square foot expandable Class A industrial logistics facility capable of accommodating modern distribution requirements , worth approximately thirty - eight th million and 00 100 dollars 38,000,00000 ; WHEREAS , North Carolina General Statute 158 - 71 a authorizes the County to make appropriations for economic development purposes which will increase the population , taxable property , employment , industrial output or business prospects of the County ; WHEREAS , the Board has determined that granting incentives the “ Incentives ” to the Company in exchange for the commitment of the Company to locate , develop and build out the Facility with expandable Class A speculative building space on the Project Site in Johnston County would be beneficial to the County’s efforts to increase economic opportunities for its residents , its population , ad valorem tax revenues and sales tax revenues , and enhance and improve business prospects in general , including the creation of a substantial number of jobs ; WHEREAS , the Board has received and reviewed a proposed Economic Development Incentive Agreement between the County and the Company the “ Agreement ” providing for the County’s granting the Incentives to the Company in consideration of the Company’s commitments set forth in the Agreement ; and WHEREAS , the Board has , pursuant to the notice and hearing requirements of North Carolina General Statute 158 - 71 , held a public hearing to consider whether to grant the Incentives in exchange for the commitment of the Company to locate and operate the industrial logistics facility in Johnston County NOW THEREFORE , the Board 1 Determines and concludes a that granting the Incentives in exchange for the commitment of the Company to proceed with the development and buildout of the 500,000 + - square foot expandable Facility on the Project Site would be beneficial to the County’s efforts to increase overall economic opportunities for , and improve the general welfare of , its residents and increase its population , ad valorem tax revenues , sales tax revenues and business prospects in general and result in the creation of a number of new well - paying jobs in the County , b that , in particular , the development of the Facility at the Project Site in accordance with the provisions of the Plans , Agreement , would significantly accelerate the economic development and have a positive catalytic effect on economic development throughout the County , and c that the benefits described above accruing to the County will outweigh the cost of the Incentives granted hereunder , creating a net public benefit ; and 2 In consideration for the commitment by the Company to proceed with the development and buildout of the Facility on the Project Site in accordance with the terms set forth in the Plans and Agreement , authorizes the Chairman of the Board and , alternatively , the County Manager , subject to compliance with any pre - audit requirements under the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act , to enter into and execute the Agreement and any other necessary documents , on behalf of the County for the County to grant Incentives on terms not materially inconsistent with the Agreement as set forth on Exhibit A , attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference 3 The Agreement shall be construed as a continuing contract in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 153A - 13 Page0629 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 4 The Agreement is contingent on the Town of Benson authorizing incentives for economic development for the Facility at the Project Site Adopted this the 7th day of March , 2022 6 North Side Fire & Rescue – Approval of Tax Exempt Loan Status Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb stated North Side Fire & Rescue , Inc is requesting the Board to adopt a resolution approving tax exempt loan status so they can borrow up to 308,50000 from KS Bank to refinance a 2017 Pierce Engine at an interest rate of 175 with a 5 - year term Mr McLamb stated the fire department requested financing proposals with four received , and he recommends financing with KS Bank Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following resolution approving tax exempt loan status for North Side Fire & Rescue NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED , that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , North Carolina , does hereby approve a tax - exempt loan to North Side Fire & Rescue , Inc the “ FD ” , from KS Bank in an amount up to 308,50000 to refinance a 2017 Pierce Engine RESOLVED , FURTHER , that the approval of the loan to the FD set forth above is given solely for purposes of the public approval requirements for tax - exempt financing applicable to the FD because of Section 150 e 3 and Section 147 f of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 , as amended , and such approval does not obligate the County or its Board of Commissioners in any way regarding repayment of the debt 7 911 - Communications – Update on Advance Purchasing for New Public Safety Center Equipment and Budget Revision Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb reported on the need to purchase 911 equipment for the Public Safety Center He stated the equipment must be purchased in advance since it will take approximately ten months to be delivered and a purchase order is required Mr McLamb stated it is important to have the equipment in time for the opening of the Public Safety Center next year He stated staff anticipates there will be a grant from the 911 Board ; however , the budget revision is necessary to go ahead and budget fund balance so a purchase order can be issued until the grant funds come in He stated when the grant funds are received , fund balance would be reimbursed He noted the total cost of the equipment is a little over 3 million and the County will cover the remaining costs , although there may be an opportunity to apply for more grant funding At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , 911 - Communications Director Brett Renfrow stated this equipment was identified by staff as being necessary for the new Public Safety Center He noted the equipment would have required upgrading , regardless of the new building Mr Renfrow stated the fund balance for 911 is generated from the 70 cents surcharge on cell phone bills He stated staff will apply for additional funds to offset any General Funds that will be needed to complete the equipment purchase Mr McLamb stated the additional funds needed for the purchase will not be financed due to the life expectancy of this type of equipment Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Tony Braswell , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following budget revision REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 45 52087400 Capital Outlay 1,260,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 1,260,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 45 520833990 Fund Balance Appropriated 1,260,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 1,260,00000Page1630 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 8 Johnston County Schools – Request for Grant Matching Funds Johnston County Schools Chief of Facilities and Construction Brooks Moore stated Johnston County Schools has an opportunity to apply for grant funds from the State Mr Moore stated 395 million has been appropriated to 95 out of 100 counties by the State and the funds are need - based He explained that for any amount awarded , there is a 15 local match requirement He stated they plan on submitting multiple applications as outlined in the Board’s agenda packet Mr Brooks stated the total cost of the projects is 150,480,000 and if the entire amount is awarded , the County’s 15 match would be 22,572,000 Mr Moore presented the following list of projects that Johnston County Schools intends to submit for grant funding consideration Page2631 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr commented that given the amount of funding set aside by the State is 395 million , it is doubtful that Johnston County will receive the total requested amount and he asked if the State would decide which of the projects submitted would receive funding Mr Moore responded that each project has its own application and the State will select which projects will receive funding Upon a question by Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Mr Moore stated the applications are due March 15 , 2022 and awards are expected to be announced by April 12 , 2022 Chairman Lawter recognized and welcomed Board of Education Member Kay Carroll and Superintendent Dr Eric Bracy to the meeting Upon a motion by Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board agreed for the County to provide the 15 local match for any grant funds awarded in accordance with the projects as outlined in the table submitted Page3632 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 9 Cooperative Extension – Update and North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund JoCo Grows Funding Johnston County Cooperative Extension Director Bryant Spivey provided an update to the Board on their programs ’ successes in 2021 Mr Spivey expressed his appreciation for the Board’s leadership and support of Cooperative Extension in Johnston County He referenced a handout provided to the Board members , stating Cooperative Extension has been serving the citizens of Johnston County since 1909 and he shared the highlights for 2021 Mr Spivey stated Cooperative Extension in Johnston County is a partnership funded by federal , state , and county government as well as other grant donations resources Mr Spivey noted the participation from volunteers in 2021 was lower due to COVID , but Cooperative Extension is quickly returning to normal operating procedures He stated each year the Extension Agents evaluate their programs and document the results and economic impacts In 2021 , he stated each County dollar invested in the Johnston County program generated 1925 in local economic benefit Mr Spivey stated Cooperative Extension is returning to normal operations and has always been open for business , while still being mindful of taking the proper precautions due to COVID He stated most of their services are at no charge to the public and they strive to serve the needs of the citizens Mr Spivey extended an invitation to the Board to visit the Agriculture Center to receive a thorough review of the various programs and activities offered by Cooperative Extension Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr commended Mr Spivey and his staff for their work and providing services to the citizens of Johnston County Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr complimented Mr Spivey and his staff for their work stating that Johnston County is one of the largest agricultural counties in the State Commissioner Smith spoke on his interactions with Extension Agent Dan Wells and how Mr Wells has provided assistance to him over the years Mr Spivey commented that finding great staff with excellent skills who have a commitment to serve the citizens of Johnston County is something he has tried to do and he has a wonderful staff Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked if the Youth Livestock Show and Sale would be held in April this year Mr Spivey confirmed that the Show and Sale will go on as planned for 2022 and it is usually held during the week of spring break so the youth can attend and participate Chairman Lawter spoke on having met Mr Well’s daughter at a 4H program and how enthusiastic she is about 4H Chairman Lawter stated it is evident that the program has had a positive impact on the youth and the citizens of Johnston County Mr Spivey noted that representatives from the North Carolina Trust Fund Tobacco Commission had planned to attend today’s meeting ; however , that will be rescheduled for another time Mr Spivey recognized Johnston County Visitors Bureau Director Donna Bailey - Taylor , and thanked her for her partnership with Cooperative Extension through the JoCo Grows Agriculture Campaign He stated the Tobacco Trust Fund recently awarded a grant to JoCo Grows for 112,000 to support their efforts and he commended Ms Bailey - Taylor for her work on that grant 10 Public Library of Johnston County & Smithfield – Update to the Board Upcoming Projects Library Director Johnnie Pippin updated the Board on their current projects and activities Mr Pippin stated a Youth Services Librarian was recently hired to assist with inventory of the children’s collection and story times which was greatly needed Mr Pippin stated during his tenure he has assisted in revising policies of the Library , including collection development , safe child policies , code of conduct , and the circulation policy He stated they are working to reestablish the “ Friends of the Library Group ” for outreach and fundraising efforts Mr Pippin noted that a Fundraising Plan has not been in place since 2018 and the next plan is anticipated to be a 3 to 5 year plan Mr Pippin stated part of his focus has been on creating a kinder and friendlier library for the citizens Mr Pippin presented the following update to the Board Page4633 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Library Board Chairman Jeff Jennings thanked the Board for their past support He presented a layout of the current childrens area and stated that layout has remained the same for 20 years He stated the Library is limited with programming , so there are efforts to look at renovating the children’s department Mr Jennings shared the following reasons the renovations are needed Page5634 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Jennings stated the top priority of the Library is serving the families and to preserve the love of reading Mr Jennings shared the following pictures of the old clubhouse and noted the County Buildings & Grounds Department assisted with its removal a few weeks ago to free up space He pointed out the photo of the cramped areas that were hard to accommodate children in the past and stated over the next several months the Board of Trustees has approved funding through investment accounts to make improvements Mr Jennings shared the following improvements over the next several months Mr Jennings stated given the increased cost of fuel and other services these days , the Library is an alternative opportunity for parents to bring their children He stated a return to normal activities is expected at the Library very soon Page6635 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Jennings shared a rendering of what the new children’s area would look like He stated staff is excited about the changes and opportunities for the Library and noted that there will be an opportunity at budget time to discuss matching funds for further renovation projects Mr Jennings also stated that he is pleased with Mr Pippin’s leadership the past year and they are ready to return to normal and be open for families and patrons Commissioner Richard D Braswell asked if there would be fundraising for the renovations Mr Jennings confirmed there will be opportunities for citizens to make donations to the “ Friends of the Library ” Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr thanked Mr Pippin and Mr Jennings for their presentation 11 Health Department – Funding for Nutritionist and Medical Office Assistant Positions Assistant Health Director Steve Strickland stated the Johnston County Women’s Infants and Children WIC program has been at 107 of its current base caseload of 4,431 clients over the last seven months of the fiscal year He continued that this entitles the Health Department to an increase of state funds in the amount of 49,736 to be used during the current State Public Health fiscal year He stated in the past year and a half the program has grown by almost 500 clients and the funding for WIC is based on the number of clients served He reported an additional 132,966 in Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023 is anticipated Mr Strickland stated the Health Department recommends using the funds for an additional Nutritionist II position of which they would like to fund two part - time hourly nutritionists without benefits and a full - time medical office assistant lab tech position with benefits He noted the medical office assistant was previously funded ; however , in 2017 due to a decrease in funding , the position was removed from the budget Mr Strickland explained that staff anticipates a significant influx of clients for lab work in the coming year due to the exemption of lab work during COVID He stated the hourly nutritionist is a cost - effective way to manage the increase in case load with the flexibility of scaling back such hours if needed Mr Strickland requested the Board’s approval to utilize the funding for the positions so long as it is available Page7636 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board approved using the funding for the positions as requested so long as it is available and adopted the following budget revision REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59550200 Salaries & Wages 24,73600 10 59550300 Salaries Part - time 7,00000 10 59550501 Social Security 95000 10 59550600 Health Insurance 3,00000 10 59550610 Life Insurance 3000 10 59550620 125 Administration Fee 5500 10 59550700 Retirement 96500 10 59551100 Postage 4,00000 10 59551600 M & R Equipment 4,00000 10 59553300 Departmental Supplies 5,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 49,73600 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 595536207 State Grant 49,73600 TOTAL NET REVENUE 49,73600 12 Solid Waste Services – Phase 4A Municipal Solid Waste Landfill and Area 2 Construction & Demolition Landfill Closure Capital Project Budget Request Solid Waste Services Director Rick Proctor stated the Phase 4A Municipal Solid Waste MSW Landfill and the Area 2 Construction & Demolition C & D Landfill have met permitted capacity and both units are ready to be closed He explained the EPA requires the owner to close a landfill by installing a cover system that will minimize infiltration of liquids and prevent exterior soil erosion Mr Proctor stated staff recommends a landfill closure construction project that will cover approximately 45 acres of finished landfill area He presented the following anticipated costs associated with the closure project ? Landfill Closure Construction 7,950,000 ? Engineering Services & Construction Management 451,000 ? 5 Contingency 420,050 Total Estimated Costs 8,821,050 Mr Proctor stated staff requests approval of a capital budget in the amount of 8,821,050 to cover the costs associated with this landfill closure construction project He stated funding for the project would come from the Solid Waste Services Department Fund 66 Reserves Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked about the timeframe for construction Mr Proctor stated that construction is anticipated at 12 months ; however , staff is allowing for 15 months for weather conditions Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board approved the capital budget in the amount of 8,821,050 and approved the associated budget revision , as follows REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 81 77230406 Technical Services 451,00000 81 77231800 Construction 7,950,00000 81 77237406 Contingency 420,05000Page8637 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 8,821,05000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 81 772337925 Transfer from Other Funds 8,821,05000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 8,821,05000 13 Public Utilities – Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Nitrogen Offset Credits Utilities Director Chandra Farmer , PE , stated in July of 2021 , the Board of Commissioners approved a capital project budget for the acquisition of nitrogen offset credits for future wastewater treatment expansion projects She stated staff negotiated with a private mitigation bank Restoration Systems , LLC and worked with NC NPDES staff to ensure future credits obtained are acceptable as allocation to be added to the County’s wastewater treatment facilities NDPES permit Ms Farmer continued that the proposed “ Agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Nitrogen Offset Credits ” between Johnston County and Restoration Systems , LLC requires Restoration Systems to complete 181 acres of riparian buffer restoration to generate 13,699lbs per year of nitrogen reduction nitrogen offset credits in the Neuse River Estuary She stated the agreement requires the County to purchase the nutrient offset credits for 5,400,000 Ms Farmer noted these credits combined with the County’s existing allocation are sufficient for the County to complete wastewater treatment plant expansions for the maximum flow allowed pursuant to the existing NPDES permit 135 MGD Ms Farmer stated in accordance with the NCDEQ process , Restoration Systems will release nutrient offset credits incrementally after project implementation She stated the agreement outlines a payment and credit release schedule with 200,000 due prior to credit release for land acquisition Ms Farmer requested the Board to approve the proposed agreement and offered to answer any questions In response to Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Ms Farmer stated the wastewater is treated with low nitrogen limits and is reduced below 3 milligrams per liter in the discharge back to the river She stated since the limit is in pounds , and the low discharge will be maintained , the additional limits are required to expand the flow since there is a mass base limit Upon a motion by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board approved the agreement for the Purchase and Sale of Nitrogen Offset Credits between Johnston County and Restoration Systems , LLC 14 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews presented the report on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of January 2022 , as follows Enforced Collections January 2022 YTD 21 22 Wage Garnishments 1 76 Bank Attachments 0 86 Levies 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed January 2022 0 Pending 9 Dollars Collected January 2022 0 Sale Date No sale scheduled at this time Levy Amount and Collections to Date 2021 Real and Personal Levy 2020 Real and Personal Levy As of January 31 , 2022 As of January 31 , 2021 157,107,29879 Levy 151,08141357 Levy 152,027,49669 Payments 145,841,34182 Payments 5,079,80210 Balance 5,240,07175 Balance 9677 Collected 9653 Collected + 024 Page9638 March 7 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued RMV – NCVTS Collections January 2022 January 2021 1,514,92614 1,573,47163 YTD 21 22 - 10,952,30838 YTD 20 21 - 10,264,97759 Ms Andrews stated it is anticipated that the local delinquent taxes advertisement insert will be in the newspapers by March 16 , 2022 Ms Andrews reported that approximately two years ago , when the COVID - 19 pandemic began , it changed how the County did business and the Tax Office encouraged citizens to avoid a physical presence in the office and instead pay their taxes by phone She continued that because of that , the County absorbed the cost for vendor card transactions during that time Ms Andrews stated from day one , staff has always communicated to the taxpayer that this would be a temporary situation due to COVID She stated the COVID numbers are now improving and unless there are objections by the Board , she recommended the vendor begin once again charging the taxpayers the transaction fee instead of the County absorbing that cost , effective in April There were no objections by the Board 15 Manager Reports and Comments County Manager Rick Hester stated staff is beginning to work on a draft Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023 budget and he hopes to have that ready for the Board by mid - May Mr Hester stated the Board usually has one or two special meetings in June prior to adoption 16 Board Reports and Comments Commissioner Richard D Braswell stated he is looking forward to the upcoming Strategic Planning Session Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr agreed and stated the Board will be having their Strategic Planning Session on March 17 and 18 , 2022 at Campbell University in the Marshbanks Alumni Hall Chairman Lawter stated he is hopeful the Commissioners can establish a roadmap for not only the Board , but for staff and the residents so they will know what the priorities are as well as goals and objectives Chairman Lawter stated the session will be facilitated by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and will be livestreamed on the County’s YouTube channel at https wwwyoutubecom jocogovnc 17 Closed Session A closed session was not requested There being no further business , Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Tony Braswell seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 11 25 am RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Chairman Paula G Woodard , Clerk to the BoardPage