May 2, 2022 - 10:00 am - County Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

10 746 Meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners May 2 , 2022 10 00 am The Johnston County Board of Commissioners met in regular session Monday , May 2 , 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 , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , Fred J Smith , Jr , Richard D Braswell , and April Stephens Absent None Also Present County Manager Rick J Hester , 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 Richard D Braswell opened the meeting with a prayer American Legion Post 270 of Smithfield led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag 1 Veterans Services Office – Memorial Day Proclamation Veterans Services Officer Robert Boyette requested the Board to adopt a Proclamation for Memorial Day 2022 Commissioner Tony Braswell read aloud the Memorial Day Proclamation Mr Boyette stated on Monday , May 30 , 2022 there will be a ceremony held in the Old Superior Courtroom at 11 00 am to mark this occasion He commended the Board of Commissioners for their support to the veterans of Johnston County and the men and women that made the ultimate sacrifice for the Country , the County , and the State Commissioner Ted G Godwin moved to adopt the Memorial Day Proclamation , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried by unanimous vote Memorial Day Proclamation Johnston County Board of Commissioners May 30 , 2022 WHEREAS , on Memorial Day , America undertakes its solemn duty to remember the brave Americans who sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom and the security of our nation ; and WHEREAS , we are constantly reminded that there are those in the world who would attempt to deprive us of our freedom and undermine our nation’s very foundation ; and WHEREAS , military men and women from Johnston County have served our nation throughout American history with 248 Johnston County service members losing their lives in action in WWI , WWII , the Korean War , the Vietnam War , the Gulf War , and the War in Iraq and Afghanistan ; and WHEREAS , by honoring these proud Soldiers , Sailors , Airmen , Marines and Coast Guardsmen lost throughout our country’s history , we renew our commitment to upholding the democratic ideals they fought and died to preserve ; and WHEREAS , the citizens of Johnston County must never take for granted our privileges and freedom or forget to give thanks and honor to those who risk their lives so that we may enjoy our many blessings NOW , THEREFORE , the Johnston County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim May 30 , 2022 as Memorial Day in Johnston County and urges citizens to remember the bravery of those who gave their lives , so that their sacrifices serve as a reminder of the cost of our freedom Adopted this the 2nd day of May , 2022 Page747 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 2 Approval Discussion of Agenda Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the agenda as presented 3 Consent Agenda Items Upon a motion by Commissioner Tony Braswell , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board approved the Consent Agenda items , as follows A Approval of Minutes – April 4 , 2022 10 00 am and 6 00 pm B Call for Public Hearing – Proposed County Budget for FY 2022 - 2023 The Board scheduled a public hearing for the June 6 , 2022 10 00 am meeting on the proposed budget for FY 2022 – 2023 C Town of Micro – Appointment to Micro Planning Board Per the request of the Town of Micro , the Board made the following appointment to the Micro Planning Board representing the ETJ area of the Town Chuck Warren , 958 Pittman Road , Selma term expiring 04 30 2025 D Proclamation – EMS Week – May 15 - 21 , 2022 , adopted as follows Proclamation Emergency Medical Services Week May 15 – 21 , 2022 WHEREAS , emergency medical services is a vital public service ; and WHEREAS , the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day , seven days a week ; and WHEREAS , access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury ; and WHEREAS , the emergency medical services system consists of emergency physicians , emergency medical technicians , paramedics , firefighters , educators , administrators , telecommunicators and others ; and WHEREAS , the members of emergency medical services teams , whether career or volunteer , engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills ; and WHEREAS , it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week NOW , THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , does hereby proclaim May 15 – 21 , 2022 as Emergency Medical Services Week in Johnston County , in recognition of this event nd Adopted this the 2 day of May , 2022 E Emergency Services – Request to Surplus Vehicles The Board declared the following vehicles surplus and approved for them to be sold at the next public auction to be scheduled by the Sheriff’s Office 1 Fleet # 108 - 2011 Chevrolet 4500 Ambulance VIN 1GB6G5CL7B1110750 Mileage 161,098 2 Fleet # 111 - 2011 Chevrolet 4500 Ambulance VIN 1GB6G5CL6B1177341 Mileage 153,158 3 Fleet # 121 - 2012 Chevrolet 4500 Ambulance VIN 1GB6G5CL0C1169074 Mileage 165,608 4 Fleet # 122 - 2012 Chevrolet 4500 Ambulance VIN 1GB6G5CL9C1180459 Mileage 173,576 5 Fleet # 131 - 2011 Chevrolet 4500 Ambulance VIN 1GB6G5CLXB1101640 Mileage 210,622 6 Fleet # 132 - 2013 Ford E450 Ambulance VIN 1FDXE4FS2DDA11415 Mileage 182,044Page748 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 7 Fleet # 206 - 2008 Ford Explorer VIN 1FMEU73858UB32322 Mileage 176,000 8 Fleet # 207 - 2008 Ford Explorer VIN 1FMEU73848UB30500 Mileage 140,436 F Emergency Services - Approval of Sole Source Contract – Zoll Case Review Premium Software The Board approved a sole source contract purchase for Zoll Case Review Premium Software for approximately 20 Zoll X - Series monitors at a cost of approximately 11,220 G Sheriff’s Office – Request to Surplus Vehicles and Schedule Public Auction The Board declared the following vehicles surplus and approved for them to be sold at public auction by Randy Wester Auction Company on Saturday , July 16 , 2022 at 10 00 am at the Johnston County Sheriff’s Fleet Services building located at 60 Shelter Way in Smithfield Year Make Model VIN Mileage 1 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT5GH303658 131,151 2 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT7GH303659 139,291 3 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT5GH303661 130,953 4 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT2GH303665 133,479 5 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT4GH303666 133,628 6 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT8GH303668 136,286 7 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT6GH303670 128,402 8 2016 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXATXGH303672 138,522 9 2015 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT5FH876767 133,487 10 2015 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT3FH880803 133,927 11 2015 DODGE CHARGER 2C3CDXAT7FH880805 133,901 12 2014 CHEVROLET IMPALA 2G1125S37E9121066 133,649 13 2014 FORD EDGE 2FMDK3GC9EBA08919 132,510 14 2011 FORD CROWN VIC 2FABP7BV8BX161728 146,286 15 2009 CHEVROLET TAHOE 1GNFK03089R165830 164,067 16 2018 FORD MUSTANG 1FA6P8CF5J5145355 83,200 NOTES Item # 15 was purchased with federal forfeiture funds , and proceeds from the sale of this vehicle must be credited back to the appropriate revenue line item in the Sheriff’s Office budget Item # 16 was involved in two accidents resulting in extensive damage H Resolution Supporting NCDOT Statewide Project Funds Per a request of the North Carolina Department of Transportation , the Board adopted the following resolution supporting the use of NCDOT Statewide Project Funds to fund a turn lane construction project at the intersection of NC 50 at SR 1517 Sanders Road SR 1533 Mt Pleasant Road Resolution Supporting North Carolina Department of Transportation Statewide Project Funds for NC - 50 Turn Lane Construction Whereas , the intersection of NC - 50 at SR 1517 Sanders Road SR 1533 Mt Pleasant Road consists of a NCDOT primary roadway and two NCDOT secondary roadways ; and Whereas , congestion related delays due to the growth of traffic volumes at this signalized intersection have shown the need for traffic improvements ; and Whereas , NCDOT has planned to create both Northbound and Southbound left turns on NC 50 to allow better traffic flow , decrease the overall delay , and provide safer vehicular movement at this intersection ; and Whereas , the County of Johnston is requesting the North Carolina Department of Transportation to secure State funding to finance these turn lanes Now Therefore , Be It Resolved , by the Johnston County Board of Commissioners that 1 The Board fully supports the NC - 50 turn lane construction and its potential to relieve traffic and provide for safer vehicular movement ; and 2 The Board requests the North Carolina Department of Transportations favorable consideration of the County of Johnston North Carolina Department of Transportation State funding request nd Adopted this the 2 day of May , 2022 Page749 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued I Budget Revisions , approved as follows Health REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59200200 Salaries and Wages 3,00000 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 3,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 592034155 State Grant 3,00000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 3,00000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 59157819 COVID 19 Expense 272,95200 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 272,95200 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 591534155 State Grant 272,95200 TOTAL NET REVENUE 272,95200 Jail REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 52007050 Non - Major Capital Assets 84,26966 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 84,26966 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 520034155 State Grant 84,26966 TOTAL NET REVENUE 84,26966 Sheriff REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 51000210 Salaries – Overtime 1,98891 10 51001410 Employee Training 5000 10 51001700 Vehicles 56860 10 51004300 Special Services 10300 10 51007418 Capital Outlay – Drug Seizure 246,02128 TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 248,73179 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 510033099 Miscellaneous Revenue 2,35051 10 510035104 Sheriff Fees 36000 10 510035160 Federal Equitable Sharing 246,02128 TOTAL NET REVENUE 248,73179 Special Appropriations REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE INCREASE DECREASE 10 58556358 JCATS ROAP Grant 329,50000PagePage pageNumber5750 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued TOTAL NET EXPENDITURES 329,50000 REQUESTED CHANGE FUND BUDGET CODE LINE ITEM CLASSIFICATION REVENUE INCREASE DECREASE 10 585534177 DOT ROAP Grant 329,50000 TOTAL NET REVENUE 329,50000 J Appointments , approved as follows ? Bentonville Community Building Board of Trustees – James Q Beasley was reappointed for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2024 and received a waiver in the length of service policy ? Economic Development Advisory Board – Donnie Lassiter Micro was reappointed for a two year term to expire on April 30 , 2024 K Tax Releases & Refunds – 03 16 2022 – 04 15 2022 Motor Vehicle Release Refund Report Year Bill # Acct # Name Tran Type Paid 2020 2204 - 649119 2106 - 671694 Holloway , Michael Shane Overpayment 23664 Real Personal Property Releases TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 4 14 2022 12 31 42 PM ALassiter 2021 - 203016 2000199827 ADVENTIST WORLD AVIATION 47592 Real Personal Property Refunds TRANS DATE TIME USER YR BILL # ACCT # TAXPAYER NAME AMOUNT 3 16 2022 1 44 39 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 39733 2000112202 HALES , MARY N 19896 3 16 2022 2 38 09 PM jevans 2021 - 95830 2000214619 CREQUE , DARRELL FRANCIS 10000 3 17 2022 10 50 23 AM Jodee 2021 - 54223 2000133287 KING , VIRGINIA 1,68517 Langdon 3 17 2022 12 12 45 PM Jodee 2021 - 24726 2000217328 ATKINSON , JASON R 14000 Langdon 3 21 2022 8 15 27 AM ONLINE 2021 - 3810 2000126750 ARELLANO , INOCENTE 2,89424 3 23 2022 10 49 48 AM tmeacomes 2021 - 29003 26168300 DUNCAN , BRAXTON CARTER 15355 3 24 2022 11 21 09 AM tmeacomes 2021 - 68032 2000235162 JOSEPH A MOORE , JR TRUST 40421 FBO KIMBERLY MOORE HOUS 3 24 2022 3 58 01 PM tmeacomes 2020 - 80535 2000219363 BULLOCK , KELLI N 10880 3 25 2022 3 56 50 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 96333 2000116846 THOMPSON , CHAD R 43659 3 28 2022 11 49 57 AM Jodee 2021 - 29184 2000173954 DOMBRYCZ CLEANERS INC 17052 Langdon 4 4 2022 8 13 14 AM PHONE 2021 - 92362 2000221307 AVILES - BENITEZ , KARELY 17898 4 4 2022 1 01 57 PM ajsoutherland 2021 - 86395 2000116127 SCHOENEWOLF , HOWARD J 21532 4 4 2022 3 15 41 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 76717 70425645 PIERCE , TONJA THERESA 26976 4 5 2022 3 25 11 PM LOCKBOX 2021 - 114912 2000216125 CHAVEZ & BROTHER CONCRETE 11630 LLC 4 7 2022 2 29 01 PM ajsoutherland 2021 - 83204 2000107151 ROBINSON , WILLIAM L 33910 4 8 2022 3 38 51 PM tmeacomes 2019 - 52570 2000130997 JOYNER , GERALD S 10079 4 11 2022 4 19 31 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 100303 2000092022 VOYLES , THOMAS ANDREW 2,13966 4 12 2022 8 39 13 AM tmeacomes 2021 - 68032 2000235162 JOSEPH A MOORE , JR TRUST 40421 FBO KIMBERLY MOORE HOUS 4 12 2022 2 13 42 PM tmeacomes 2021 - 26747 2000054192 DAUGHTRY , LELAND JASPER 48917 LIFE ESTATE 4 12 2022 2 19 00 PM tcronan 2021 - 79309 2000129188 PRUITT , DANIEL RYAN 1,26906 4 12 2022 2 20 23 PM tmeacomes 2020 - 80535 2000219363 BULLOCK , KELLI N 13031 4 12 2022 3 55 44 PM LOCKBOX 2020 - 21256 19623960 COLLIER , JOHN ROLAND 10000 4 14 2022 10 52 48 AM Jodee 2021 - 76717 70425645 PIERCE , TONJA THERESA 32022 Langdon 4 14 2022 11 25 23 AM jevans 2020 - 99874 2000147541 VENCES , GLORIA 60546PagePage pageNumber6751 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued North Carolina Vehicle Tax System - Pending Refund Report – March 2022 100 + Payee Name Bill # Transaction Refund Total Change # Reason PLEASANT , 0042826908 161774210 Adjustment 10442 EARLENE 1237 ARNOLD 11679 WILLIAMS , 0057455706 321794904 Situs error 000 LINDA FAYE 19721 2076 6574 24219 4 Public Comments None 5 Public Hearing – Fire District Boundary Revisions Advertised – The News & Observer , The Johnstonian News and The News in Review – April 20 , 2022 Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr opened the public hearing Fire Marshal Adam Stanley stated the purpose of the hearing is to provide the public with an opportunity to address the Board on proposed changes to the boundary lines of the following fire service districts in Johnston County pursuant to NCGS § 153A - 3043 Fifty - Two Ten , Elevation , and Wynn and Four Oaks Mr Stanley stated the revisions are proposed to align the boundaries to maximize the five mile coverage area for fire insurance grading purposes A report for the districts including a maps of the service districts and the adjacent territory showing the current and proposed boundaries of the districts ; b a statement indicating that the proposed boundary relocations meet the standards and requirements of General Statute 153A - 3043 a ; c a plan for providing service to the areas affected by the relocation of district boundaries ; and d the effect that changes in the amount of taxable property will have on the ability of the fire service districts to provide services or to service any debt , have been on file in the Clerk to the Board’s Office as well as the Johnston County Emergency Services Office for public inspection and on the County’s website He stated following the public hearing , unless there are objections , staff requests the Board to adopt two resolutions to relocate the boundary lines of said Fire Service Districts and the corresponding Fire Insurance Districts Mr Stanley reported the proposed revisions are for an area known as Beverly Subdivision , which was split into two different fire districts causing two different fire insurance ratings and with this change , it will once again fall under one district Mr Stanley stated it is in the best interest of the Wynn Fire District to cover the entire area Mr Stanley noted that he has had multiple meetings with the Fire Chiefs from the affected districts and they are all in agreement with the revisions At the inquiry of Commissioner Ted G Godwin , Mr Stanley stated initially these properties had the same rating ; however , once the subdivision was created , due to the way the roads were laid out , it extended the five mile radius and created a longer distance Mr Stanley stated the revisions would allow for one tax district and one insurance rating Commissioner Richard D Braswell asked if there were similar issues anywhere else in the County Mr Stanley stated whenever a new subdivision is approved , a plat is recorded , and GIS obtains the information , they notify staff of any issues He stated this is the most significant boundary revision staff has had in a while , and they are working to develop a policy to present to the Board for consideration since this may be a continuing problem Mr Stanley stated staff hopes a policy will help to alleviate some of these issues Commissioner Tony Braswell stated this has not been as easy of a task as one might assume and this issue originally came to the Board many months ago Commissioner T Braswell commended staff for their work Commissioner T Braswell also noted that with this revision , the response times would improve for this neighborhood PagePage pageNumber7752 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris echoed Commissioner Tony Braswell’s comments and stated he appreciates the Fire Chiefs coming together and being willing to work on a solution to better serve the citizens Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr expressed his appreciation to everyone for the spirit of collaboration He stated the bottom line is that everyone was looking to do what was in the best interest for the citizens and he commended the Fire Chiefs for keeping citizens in mind Chairman Lawter acknowledged an email received from Ms Jill Parker in support of the revisions and noted Ms Parker originally brought this issue to the Board Chairman Lawter called for anyone else in the audience that wished to comment to come forward There being no further comments , the Chairman closed the public hearing Upon a motion by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , seconded by Commissioner Richard D Braswell , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following two resolutions RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR RELOCATION OF ADJOINING BOUNDARY LINES OF FIRE SERVICE DISTRICTS IN JOHNSTON COUNTY WHEREAS , the Fire Service Districts of Fifty - Two Ten , Elevation , and Wynn and Four Oaks collectively known as the “ Fire Service Districts ” have been operating as county service districts providing fire protection services since their creation by the Johnston County Board of Commissioners ; and WHEREAS , the Board has determined that the boundary lines of the Fire Service Districts should be relocated to align the fire service district boundaries with the fire insurance district boundaries and to maximize the five - mile coverage area for fire insurance grading purposes ; and WHEREAS , pursuant to NC General Statutes § 153A - 3043 , the Board has determined to relocate the boundary lines of the Fire Service Districts consistently with the map attached hereto and incorporated by reference ; and WHEREAS , pursuant to NG General Statutes § 153A - 3043 , a report was prepared containing a map of the proposed districts , showing the proposed boundaries , statements showing the proposed districts meet the standards as required by law , and plans for providing fire protection services to the proposed districts WHEREAS , pursuant to NC General Statutes Section § 153A - 3043 c a notice of public hearing was prepared stating the date , hour and place of the hearing and its subject and stating that the report required by § 153A - 3043 b , including maps of the Fire Service Districts and the boundary lines to be relocated was available for public inspection in the office of the Clerk to the Board , and such notice was properly and timely published ; and WHEREAS , a public hearing was held at 10 00 AM on May 2 , 2022 , in the Commissioner’s Meeting Room , Johnston County Courthouse , Smithfield , North Carolina at which time all interested persons appeared and were heard , or had an opportunity to appear and be heard , concerning the question of relocation of the boundary lines of the Fire Service Districts of Johnston County ; and WHEREAS , at such meeting the Board determined that it was appropriate to relocate the boundaries of the Fire Service Districts , and that the proposed boundary relocation meets the requirements of § 153A - 3043 ; and WHEREAS , the Board , following the public hearing , finds that the relocation of the fire district boundaries is in the best interest of the citizens to align the fire service district boundaries with the fire insurance district boundaries and to maximize the five - mile coverage area , that the Fire Service Districts are capable of providing fire protection services in the areas affected , and that the effect that changes in the amount of taxable property will have on the ability of the Fire Service Districts to provide services or service debt will be negligible and in any event outweighed by the benefits to the people and property located in the districts NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED BY the Johnston County Board of Commissioners , meeting in regular session at Smithfield , North Carolina , on May 2 , 2022 , that the boundary lines of the Fifty - Two Ten , Elevation , and Wynn and Four Oaks Fire Service 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 July 1 , 2022 at 12 00 am nd Adopted this the 2 day of May , 2022 PagePage pageNumber8753 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 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 May 2 , 2022 at 10 00 am in the Commissioners Meeting Room at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield , North Carolina Fifty - Two Ten Fire Insurance District ; Elevation Fire Insurance District ; and Wynn and 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 May 2 , 2022 , 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 nd Adopted this the 2 day of May , 2022 PagePage pageNumber9754 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 6 Health Department – Approval of FY 2022 - 2023 Fee Schedules Assistant Health Director Steve Strickland requested the Board to approve the Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023 fee schedules for the Behavioral , Preventive , and Environmental Health Divisions Mr Strickland stated there are minor changes recommended for the Environmental Health schedule and changes in the Preventive Health and Behavioral Health schedules represent changes in Medicaid , Medicare , or private insurance increases decreases He noted the Board of Health recommended approval of the fee schedules at their April 12 , 2022 meeting Mr Strickland continued that the Preventive and Behavioral Health fee schedules are set to ensure the County is reimbursed by Medicare , Medicaid , or private insurance carriers and for those with no insurance , staff evaluates their income using a sliding fee scale He stated for Environmental Health , staff is requesting to have eight different fees increased and he reviewed those proposed changes with the Board Mr Strickland stated a comparison of nine other counties was conducted in consideration of the increases Commissioner Richard D Braswell stated that in speaking with builders , developers , and homeowners , he feels the 475 fee for the septic system permit is a low number He stated there is already a 16 - week delay for those inspections , due to personnel issues He suggested the Board consider setting that fee at 750 Mr Strickland noted that with regards to the response times , various factors affect this He noted training is a major issue , and it often takes approximately two years for a new employee to be fully trained He reported the State is looking at ways to get more training opportunities At the inquiry of Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Mr Strickland stated 2,056 septic system permits were issued in the last year Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated he is satisfied with the rates as proposed by the Health Department Commissioner Tony Braswell commented that Mr Strickland manages the budget very well at the Health Department He asked about the mobile food units permit charge being 250 Page0755 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Mr Strickland stated the mobile food units permit fee can be adjusted He stated some years back , that fee was adjusted because vendors can get their permit in any County and staff determined that Johnston County’s fee was so low , everyone was getting their permit here while operating in other counties He noted that these inspections often occur over weekends which can result in overtime Commissioner R Braswell reiterated his previous comment about the septic system permit and stated in his research he found that Mecklenburg County’s fee was over 1,000 He stated the County should make the departments as cost effective as possible Commissioner Godwin noted the push back would come from individual citizens trying to obtain these permits Commissioner April Stephens stated that she supports the fees as presented She noted because of the personnel situation in the Environmental Health Division , some of the builders are hiring private individuals for these services , so there are additional fees on top of permit fees She stated once the personnel issue is resolved then perhaps the septic system design fee could be revisited Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris stated there is a cost to the County of about 24,000 per employee just to get them ready to go out into the field and the thought with the pay study is to bring the salaries at a level to hopefully retain those employees once trained Vice Chairman Harris stated he could support the 750 fee for the septic system design permit Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr stated that he supports Commissioner R Braswell’s idea , but he is concerned about the cost of housing and the biggest impact on the cost of housing is government regulation and fees Commissioner Smith stated that he believes the salary study the Board just approved may solve the problem without putting additional costs on citizens buying a home Commissioner T Braswell stated that he appreciates Commissioner R Braswell bringing this up but he feels more time is needed to consider that increase Upon a motion by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , seconded by Commissioner Ted G Godwin , and carried unanimously , the Board adopted the following fee schedules for Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023 as presented and recommended for approval by the Johnston County Health Board Page1756 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage2757 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage3758 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am ContinuedPage4759 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 7 Finance – Resolutions for Proposed 2022 General Obligation School Bond Referendum Debt Manager Martha Lasater stated staff requests the Board to consider two resolutions relating to a proposed November 8 , 2022 General Obligation School Bond referendum ; 1 a resolution authorizing staff to proceed with the filing of an application with the NC Local Government Commission , authorizing publication of a Notice of Intent to file the application , and making certain findings related to the proposed School Bonds ; andPage5760 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued 2 a resolution declaring official intent to reimburse expenditures with proceeds of debt related to the proposed School Bonds , which is a US Department of Treasury requirement if expenditures made prior to the referendum and sale of the proposed School Bonds need to be reimbursed later from the proceeds of the School Bonds Ms Lasater stated a maximum amount needs to be decided on to include in the resolutions Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr stated that based on recent discussions and a meeting with the North Carolina Local Government Commission LGC last week , discussions have centered around a maximum of up to 177 million for the following projects New High School - 103 million Swift Creek Elementary School - 48 million Cooper Academy Addition - 17 million Facility in Princeton - 2 million Turf Fields - 6 million ADA access improvements - 1 million Chairman Lawter noted that Johnston County Schools is looking at using 85 million from their own fund balance to make up for some of the 2018 bond projects Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr shared his concerns that in the private business world , free market determines how money and capital is spent and private businesses determine what they are going to charge for their goods and services He continued that customers decide whether they are going to pay or not pay for those goods and services Commissioner Smith stated in government , the Commissioners set the price that the customer the taxpayer has to pay and the taxpayer does not have any choice about whether to pay or not pay Commissioner Smith stated the Board’s job is to represent both government and the taxpayer and the taxpayer does not have any choice other than to depend upon the Board to make sure the County only charges what is necessary Commissioner Smith stated he supports the school system and was a champion for building schools when he served on the Board 20 years ago Commissioner Smith stated while he will still support the school system , he also wants to support the taxpayer and he wants to make sure the taxpayers ’ funds are used in the best possible way Commissioner Smith stated the Board’s decisions must be based on credible facts and not opinions He shared information with the Board from the OREd Report given in February 2022 as it relates to capacities for elementary , middle , and high schools and pointed out that there is not a deficit for elementary or middle schools He indicated that although there is a deficit for high schools , that should be studied closer because not all high school students attend for the entire day Commissioner Smith expressed concerns that the capacity information received from Johnston County Schools does not match the numbers in the OREd Report Commissioner Smith continued his remarks regarding funding allocated to Johnston County Schools by the County over a six - year period of time and stated he feels more facts are needed because the data is not matching up Commissioner Smith stated he is in favor of a 150 million school bond which would pay for two new elementary schools 95 million , leaving a balance of 55 million for Johnston County Schools to make improvements and expansions across campuses county - wide He noted that the Board has asked Johnston County Schools what will they be requesting for the Fiscal Year 2022 - 2023 budget but have heard nothing so far Commissioner Smith expressed concerns that the Board of Education always requests more funds than what they actually need Commissioner Smith stated he will vote for passing a 150 million school bond and suggested that other needs could be considered in future bond referendums Commissioner Smith stated he does not believe that the facts support a 177 million school bond Commissioner Tony Braswell stated he can appreciate the information shared by Commissioner Smith ; however , he also has facts to consider Commissioner T Braswell stated there are currently 186 mobile units being used on school campuses and every child deserves to sit in a classroom and not a mobile unit Commissioner T Braswell stated it is a fact that multiple subdivisions have been approved and more will be approved so the need for schools will keep increasing Commissioner T Braswell noted that once approved , it takes approximately two years before a school can open the doors He spoke on the cost of construction increasing noting that the last two new high schools built cost 45 million each ; however , that figure has now doubled and he expressed concern that the cost of construction will increase even more over the next two years Commissioner T Braswell stated a new high school has not been built in his district , nor Commissioner Richard D Braswell or Commissioner Ted G Godwin’s districts since 1965 He stated a new high school in Wilson’s Mills would help to relieve some of the overcrowding issues and he does not see the need to prolong that project Page6761 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued Commissioner T Braswell stated the Board needs to make a decision and if everyone is not on the same page , it sends a mixed signal to the voters Commissioner T Braswell noted he was in favor of a 200 million school bond ; however , he must have misunderstood the consideration of the 177 million amount Commissioner T Braswell expressed his concerns that if this bond does not pass , the County will be set back ten years Commissioner T Braswell stated if Johnston County is going to continue with growth , then the Board must continue to provide for education and educational facilities Commissioner April Stephens stated education is an important issue for her and she has always felt as though there was not enough transparency or communication between the two Boards Commissioner Stephens stated she is supportive of an “ up to ” number She noted that at an event this past week she heard Johnston County is one three counties in the State that has not lost students during the COVID - 19 pandemic She expressed her concerns that the County is playing catch up and with the amount of residential lots already approved , the County is going to be further behind Commissioner Stephens spoke on the need for transparency and communication with regards to school building designs stating there needs to be more discussion on how schools are designed and built Chairman Lawter stated when he first became a Commissioner , his concern then was that the same sprawling models used for elementary , middle and high schools could not continue and the schools need to build up Chairman Lawter stated he believes that Johnston County Schools is open to discussing some of the concerns with design Commissioner Ted G Godwin voiced his concerns that schools are not being constructed as efficiently as they could be Commissioner Godwin stated he does not understand why a school cannot be built for less than what a hospital costs Commissioner Godwin stated he does not have a problem with building new schools , but he would like for them to be constructed at a more efficient cost Commissioner Richard D Braswell commented that the larger the campus , the harder it is to secure the site Commissioner R Braswell stated there is merit in everyone’s thoughts Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris stated everyone has made some great points and he is appreciative of everyone’s thoughts Vice Chairman Harris stated it troubles him when projects are pushed out four and five years and how much the construction costs increase during that time Vice Chairman Harris stated he believes the Board of Commissioners has been clear about the need to look at building up versus out for new schools Vice Chairman Harris spoke in support for a 177 million school bond Commissioner Smith motioned the Board approve a school bond of 150 million The motion failed for lack of a second Chairman Lawter indicated that when considering everyone’s points , as Commissioner Stephens stated , the County is playing catchup Chairman Lawter stated he wants to avoid more delays and he supports a maximum school bond amount of 177 million Commissioner T Braswell stated the County can afford the debt capacity He also stated that there has been discussions for a new County government facility ; however , as long as there are children in mobile classrooms , he will not support a new building for County government operations Commissioner Tony Braswell moved the passage of a resolution , the title of which is as follows and was read RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION WITH RESPECT TO UP TO 177,000,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION SCHOOL BONDS , AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE OF INTENT TO FILE SAID APPLICATION AND MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS RELATED THERETO WHEREAS , the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County the “ Board ” has decided to pursue the issuance of general obligation school bonds in the maximum aggregate principal amount of 177,000,000 the “ School Bonds ” under the Local Government Bond Act the “ Act ” to finance , in part , the acquisition , construction and equipping of modifications , renovations , additions , improvements and extensions to existing facilities and or one or more new buildings or other educational facilities for Johnston County public schools , including acquisition of necessary land and rights - of - way the “ Public School Projects ” ;Page7762 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued WHEREAS , under the Act the issuance of such bonds must be approved by the Local Government Commission and pursuant to GS § 159 - 50 of the Act , a notice of the intention to file an application with the Local Government Commission must be published prior to filing of the application ; NOW , THEREFORE , the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , meeting in regular session in Smithfield , North Carolina , on May 2 , 2022 , does the following BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF JOHNSTON COUNTY 1 The financing by the County of the acquisition , construction and equipping of modifications , renovations , additions , improvements and extensions to existing facilities and or one or more new buildings or other educational facilities for Johnston County public schools , including acquisition of necessary land and rights - of - way , with general obligation bonds of Johnston County in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed 177,000,000 is determined to be necessary and expedient because of the recent and projected growth in school age population in Johnston County , and the inability of the existing school facilities to house the additional student population 2 The aggregate amount of the proposed bond issue is found to be adequate and not excessive for its proposed purpose because preliminary reports have estimated total project costs for the Public School Projects to be approximately 177,000,000 3 The debt management , budgetary and fiscal management policies of Johnston County are found to have been carried out in strict compliance with applicable law as evidenced by the fact that a The Local Government Commission has taken no action against the County , nor found the County to have acted improperly in debt management b The County has not defaulted on any debt obligation c The County follows the debt management guidelines of the North Carolina Local Government Commission 4 No property tax increase is expected to be necessary to pay the increased debt service requirements resulting from the School Bonds 5 The filing of an application with the Local Government Commission for approval of the proposed School Bonds is hereby approved and confirmed and the Chairman , the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners , and the Director of Finance , or any one of them , are designated to serve as representatives of the County in connection with the application for approval of the School Bonds with the Local Government Commission and are authorized to cause publication of a Notice of Intent to file the application 6 Nexsen Pruet , PLLC is hereby designated bond counsel for the School Bonds 7 This resolution shall take effect immediately Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , and the resolution was passed by the following vote Ayes Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and Commissioners Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , Richard D Braswell , and April Stephens Nays Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr Not voting None NOTICE OF INTENTION TO FILE AN APPLICATIONPage8763 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION FOR APPROVAL OF BONDS Notice is hereby given that the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County , North Carolina the “ Board ” , intends to file an application with the Local Government Commission the “ LGC ” for its approval of the issuance of the following proposed bonds of the County of Johnston , North Carolina , which bonds shall be subject to the approval of the voters of said County at a referendum 177,000,000 General Obligation School Bonds for the purpose of providing funds , with any other available funds , for the acquisition , construction and equipping of modifications , renovations , additions , improvements and extensions to existing facilities and or one or more new buildings or other educational facilities for Johnston County public schools , including acquisition of necessary land and rights - of - way Any citizen or taxpayer of Johnston County who objects to said bonds in whole or in part may , at any time within seven days from the date of publication of this Notice , file with the undersigned and the LGC a statement setting forth his or her objections and containing his or her name and address as provided in Section 159 - 50 of the General Statutes of North Carolina The mailing address for the LGC is the Longleaf Building , 3200 Atlantic Avenue , Raleigh , North Carolina 27604 Anyone who files a statement of objections with the LGC shall also file a copy of said statement with the undersigned at Johnston County Courthouse , PO Box 1049 , Smithfield , North Carolina 27577 Objections set forth in said statement will be considered by the LGC , along with said application , in determining whether to approve or disapprove said application JOHNSTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS By ___________________________________ Paula G Woodard Clerk to the Board of Commissioners Commissioner Tony Braswell then moved the passage of a resolution , the title of which is as follows and was read RESOLUTION DECLARING OFFICIAL INTENT TO REIMBURSE EXPENDITURES WITH PROCEEDS OF DEBT PURSUANT TO UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY REGULATIONS BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Johnston County 1 The Board hereby finds , determines and declares as follows a Treasury Regulations Section 1150 - 2 the “ Regulations ” , promulgated by the United States Department of Treasury on June 18 , 1993 , prescribes certain specific procedures applicable to certain obligations issued by the County after June 30 , 1993 , including , without limitation , a requirement that the County timely declare its official intent to reimburse certain expenditures with the proceeds of debt to be issued thereafter by the County b The County has advanced and or will advance its own funds to pay certain capital costs the “ Original Expenditures ” associated with the County’s acquisition , construction and equipping of modifications , renovations , additions , improvements and extensions to existing facilities and or one or more new buildings or other educational facilities for Johnston County public schools , including acquisition of necessary land and rights - of - way the “ School Projects ” c The funds heretofore advanced or to be advanced by the County to pay the Original Expenditures are or will be available only on a temporary basis , and do not consist of funds that were otherwise earmarked or intended to be used by the County to permanently finance the Original Expenditures d As of the date hereof , the County reasonably expects that it will reimburse itself for such Original Expenditures with the proceeds of debt to be incurred by the County , and the maximum principal amount of debt to be incurred with respect to the School Projects is expected to be 177,000,000 Page9764 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued e All Original Expenditures to be reimbursed by the County were paid no more than 60 days prior to , or will be paid on or after the date of , this declaration of official intent The County understands that such reimbursement must occur not later than 18 months after the later of i the date the Original Expenditure was paid ; or ii the date the School Projects are placed in service or abandoned , but in no event more than 3 years after the Original Expenditure was paid 2 This resolution shall take effect immediately Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , and the resolution was passed by the following vote Ayes Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and Commissioners Tony Braswell , Ted G Godwin , Richard D Braswell , and April Stephens Nays Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr Not voting None 8 Delinquent Tax Collection Report Tax Administrator Jocelyn Andrews presented the report on the collection of delinquent taxes for the month of March 2022 , as follows Enforced Collections March 2022 YTD 21 22 Wage Garnishments 137 272 Bank Attachments 235 366 Levies 0 0 Foreclosures Complaints Filed March 2022 0 Pending 8 Dollars Collected March 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 March 31 , 2022 As of March 31 , 2021 157,074,69600 Levy 151,026,49283 Levy 155,690,54592 Payments 149,192,65699 Payments 1,384,15008 Balance 1,833,83584 Balance 9912 Collected 9879 Collected + 033 RMV – NCVTS Collections March 2022 March 2021 1,814,98034 1,889,93099 YTD 21 22 - 14,242,43685 YTD 20 21 - 13,595,08678 Commissioner Ted G Godwin asked about staffing levels in the Tax Department Ms Andrews stated she has filled five positions this year due to resignations and retirements She stated additional appraisal staff is needed for the 2025 revaluation , but for now , the department is making it work 9 Manager Reports and Comments A School Bond Referendum County Manager Rick Hester stated staff would be working with Johnston County Schools on the bond sales , if the referendum is passed by the voters in November Mr Hester noted that the sales are often staggeredPage0765 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued over a few years to make it more affordable and staff always coordinates with Johnston County Schools regarding the schedule B Recognition of Public Information Office County Manager Rick Hester recognized Adam Carroll and Ben Armstrong from the Public Information Office on receiving two “ Excellence in Communications ” awards at the recent NC City & County Communicators Conference The awards were First Place in Videography for the Johnston County Emergency Services Fire Marshal video and Second Place in Special Programming for the Johnston County Veterans Services Office video The Board commended Mr Carroll and Mr Armstrong for their excellent work C ERA Update Finance Director and Deputy County Manager Chad McLamb updated the Board on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program Mr McLamb stated staff is in the process of wrapping the program up and the final reporting will be completed soon Mr McLamb reported that just over 10 million was sent out which helped over 2,000 families Mr McLamb also reported on the Community Development Block Grant mortgage assistance program and stated the County has sent out a little over 600,000 to eligible citizens with approximately 300,000 remaining in that program Mr McLamb commended the DSS and Finance staff for their work and diligence on these two programs 10 Board Reports and Comments Commissioner Richard D Braswell commented that he is approached several times a week by citizens in the County who want to know why subdivision construction is allowed to continue and why the Board does not halt subdivision approvals Commissioner R Braswell stated he does not think that citizens sometimes understand that while there is a downside to growth , there are also advantages to be considered He stated one of the advantages of growth is the increase in the tax base , but not the tax rate Commissioner R Braswell noted that every rule or stipulation set by the Board increases the cost of development and homes , which the builders pass on to the homeowners Commissioner R Braswell stated as a Board , the Commissioners must always consider how their actions affect all the citizens He stated one thing citizens must understand is that if development stops , then the only way to continue the status quo is by raising the tax rate Commissioner Ted G Godwin stated he is a member of the Kiwanis Club which collects aluminum cans for the purpose of raising funds for scholarships Commissioner Godwin stated every so often , they must sort the cans and he is finding that many people include glass bottles and other materials in with the cans , which then has to be separated by hand Commissioner Godwin encouraged citizens to consider keeping aluminum cans separate from other recyclable materials Commissioner Godwin also commented on growth and stated that while there are those that do not want people buying or building homes directly beside them , sometimes that is just life and it must be accepted Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris expressed his appreciation to his fellow Commissioners stating he is thankful to be a part of a Board that puts thought and effort into the decisions that have to be made Commissioner April Stephens commented that the public needs to know that this Board is passionate about creating smart growth and she is very excited over some of the things the Board is working on to make sure that happens Commissioner Stephens stated everyone deserves to have a good quality of life and she wants the public to know that the Board is working diligently on smart growth Chairman RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr announced that the Board would be having lunch with the Tourism Authority at the Smithfield Recreation & Aquatics Center following adjournment of the meeting 11 Closed Session – NCGS 14331811 a 3 – Attorney - Client Privilege and NCGS 14331811 a 4 – Economic Development Upon a motion by Commissioner Fred J Smith , Jr , seconded by Vice Chairman Patrick E Harris , and carried by unanimous vote , the Board recessed regular session to sit in closed session for the purposes of consulting with an attorney employed by the Board in order to preserve the attorney - client privilege pursuant toPage1766 May 2 , 2022 – 10 00 am Continued North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 3 and to discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area , pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143 - 31811 a 4 No action was taken by the Board Commissioner Tony Braswell moved the Board adjourn closed session and resume regular session Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote There being no further business , Commissioner Tony Braswell moved the Board adjourn Commissioner Ted G Godwin seconded the motion , which carried by unanimous vote The meeting adjourned at 12 00 pm RS “ Butch ” Lawter , Jr , Chairman Paula G Woodard , Clerk to the BoardPage