1 WAKE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Regular Meeting October 5, 2015 2:00 P.M. Room 2700, Wake County Justice Center Members present were: Chairman James West, Vice-Chair Caroline Sullivan, John D. Burns, Matt Calabria, Jessica Holmes, Sig Hutchinson, Betty Lou Ward Others attending were: Jim Hartmann, County Manager; Scott Warren, County Attorney; Denise Hogan, Clerk to the Board; Leslie Rudd, Deputy Clerk; David Ellis, Deputy Manager; Johnna Rogers, Deputy Manager Meeting Called to Order: Chairman James West Pledge of Allegiance Invocation: Commissioner Matt Calabria Items of Business Chairman West called for the public hearing on the moratorium on fracking be tabled to a later date; but he noted that anyone interested in speaking on the subject could do so during public comments. John D. Burns moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to table discussion of the moratorium of fracking. The motion passed unanimously. Approval of Agenda Caroline Sullivan moved, seconded by John D. Burns, to approve the agenda as presented. The motion passed unanimously. Approval of the Minutes of the Commissioners' Regular Meeting of September 21, 2015 and Work Session of September 14, 2015 Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to approve the Minutes of the Commissioners' Regular Meeting of September 21, 2015 and Work Session of September 14, 2015. The motion passed unanimously.
Transcript
1
WAKE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Regular Meeting
October 5, 2015 2:00 P.M.
Room 2700, Wake County Justice Center
Members present were: Chairman James West, Vice-Chair Caroline Sullivan, John D. Burns, Matt Calabria, Jessica Holmes, Sig Hutchinson, Betty Lou
Ward Others attending were: Jim Hartmann, County Manager; Scott Warren, County
Attorney; Denise Hogan, Clerk to the Board; Leslie Rudd, Deputy Clerk; David Ellis, Deputy Manager; Johnna Rogers, Deputy Manager Meeting Called to Order: Chairman James West Pledge of Allegiance Invocation: Commissioner Matt Calabria Items of Business Chairman West called for the public hearing on the moratorium on fracking be
tabled to a later date; but he noted that anyone interested in speaking on the subject could do so during public comments.
John D. Burns moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to table discussion of the
moratorium of fracking. The motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Agenda
Caroline Sullivan moved, seconded by John D. Burns, to approve the agenda
as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
Approval of the Minutes of the Commissioners' Regular Meeting of
September 21, 2015 and Work Session of September 14, 2015 Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to approve the Minutes of the Commissioners' Regular Meeting of September 21, 2015 and Work Session
of September 14, 2015. The motion passed unanimously.
Proclamation Recognizing Capital Area Veterans Stand Down Day
Mr. Frank Lawrence, Wake County Human Services, Homeless Services Supervisor, shared with the board the efforts of the Capital Area Stand Down
outreach, which served 275 participants at last year's event. Services will be available 9 am to 3 pm during the annual Capital Area Stand Down event on October 16, 2015.
Chairman West thanked Mr. Lawrence and his staff for their service. He asked Commissioner Holmes to present Mr. Lawrence with the proclamation
declaring October 16 as Capital Area Veterans Stand Down Day.
Commissioner Hutchinson thanked Mr. Lawrence for honoring veterans at this event each year and their continued support.
Commissioner Ward also thanked the staff for the service they provide to the county.
Commissioner Holmes asked for Human Services Housing Department staff to stand and be recognized.
Mr. Lawrence recognized several members of the Housing and Human Services department staff that coordinate the event each year.
Chairman West recounted working with county staff to fight homelessness
while serving on the Raleigh City Council. He noted that great strides have been made, but there is still much more to be done.
Jessica Holmes moved, seconded by John D. Burns, to proclaim October 16,
2015 as Capital Area Veterans Stand Down Day. The motion passed unanimously.
PROCLAMATION VETERANS STAND DOWN DAY
OCTOBER 16, 2015
WHEREAS, Ending Homelessness is a national, statewide, Triangle-wide, and local initiative, more than 300 communities across the United States and more than 20 cities and counties across North Carolina, including Raleigh/Wake County, Durham/Durham County, and Chapel Hill/Orange County each adopting and implementing Ten Year Plans to End Homelessness; and, WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs estimates that over 49,933 veterans are homeless on any given night across the country; and,
WHEREAS, last year the South Wilmington Street Men’s Shelter served more than 200 homeless veterans; and, WHEREAS, nationally 20% of the male homeless population are veterans; and, WHEREAS, America’s homeless veterans have served in all wars and military conflicts since WWII; and WHEREAS, veterans are now returning to our community from active, wartime duty in Iraq (Operation Iraqi freedom) and Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom); and, WHEREAS, on October 16, 2015, Raleigh/Wake County is hosting the Capital Area Homeless Veterans Stand Down to assist local veterans experiencing homelessness access a wide range of services and connect with service providers in one place on one day with the ultimate goal of becoming employed, obtaining housing and achieving stability in their lives; and, WHEREAS, in support of the 2015 Capital Area Homeless Veterans Stand Down and in support of the estimated 200 veterans expected to attend and receive assistance; NOW THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Wake County Board of Commissioners, proclaims October 16, 2015, as
“Capital Area Homeless Veterans Stand Down Day”
in Wake County and urges citizens, businesses, civic organizations and faith communities to support this and other efforts to end and prevent homelessness in our community. Adopted this 5th day of October 2015.
James West, Chairman Wake County Board of Commissioners
Recognition that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month Ms. Penny Lauricella, Executive Director of the Pretty in Pink Foundation,
provided background information on her organization and statistical information about breast cancer. She said there are 232,000 new cases and
40,000 fatalities in 2015. There are 854 women projected to be diagnosed in Wake County this year; 114 are projected to lose their battle with the disease. Pretty in Pink Foundation helps patients to cover the cost of treatment,
surgery, medication and secondary costs. Ms. Lauricella thanked the Board of Commissioners for their support.
She introduced a breast cancer survivor who was assisted through the Pretty in
Pink Foundation from diagnosis to surgery and treatment. She shared her story of survival.
Chairman West thanked her for her bravery. Commissioner Burns thanked her for sharing her story. He noted that his
family is among those that have been personally impacted by this disease. She thanked Ms. Lauricella for her support.
Vice-Chair Sullivan presented the proclamation declaring October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Caroline Sullivan moved, seconded by Betty Lou Ward, to proclaim October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Wake County. The motion passed unanimously.
Proclamation Breast Cancer Awareness Month
WHEREAS, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month; and WHEREAS, one in eight American women is diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her life; and WHEREAS, breast cancer is the most commonly recognized cancer among women in the nation, and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in North Carolina; and WHEREAS, every woman is at risk for breast cancer even if she has no family history or other risk factors of the disease; and WHEREAS, in the United States about 231,840 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed and approximately 40,290 women will die from the disease by the end of 2015; and WHEREAS, in Wake County about 854 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and approximately 115 women will die from the disease by the end of 2015; and WHEREAS, early detection can be an extremely effective tool, timely screening mammograms could
5
prevent 15 to 30 percent of all deaths from breast cancer in women over age 40; and WHEREAS, Pretty In Pink Foundation's mission is to provide financial assistance to uninsured and underinsured breast cancer patients with quality, life-saving medical treatment regardless of their ability to pay. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Wake County Board of Commissioners designate the month of October, 2015 “Breast Cancer Awareness Month” in Wake County, North Carolina. ADOPTED this the 5th day of October, 2015.
_________________________________ James West, Chairman
Wake County Board of Commissioners
Recognition of Recent Awards County Manager Jim Hartmann recognized several county employees for their exemplary work.
Wake County Emergency Medical Services
He said Mr. Ben Anderson, Wake County Emergency Management, was recently honored at the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce’s First Responders Appreciation Breakfast for his critical-thinking and quick response
in a time of need. Mr. Anderson was transporting a patient, via ambulance, to the hospital last April, when he noticed a toddler playing on a bike just inches
away from a busy road. He knew the patient being transported was not in a life-threatening situation, so he stopped the ambulance to safely rescue the three-year-old child who had wandered off from a nearby playground and was
unaccompanied. Mr. Anderson made contact with the child’s mother and got her to the scene to
reunite the family, and then proceeded with the transport of his original patient. He displayed both situational awareness and critical thinking skills,
as he kept both his patient and the life of this small child safe. Wake County Sheriff’s Office
Mr. Hartmann recognized Deputies James Bennett (not present) and Christopher Trice for their life-saving response.
Wake County Sheriff’s Deputies Bennett and Trice were also recently honored at the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce’s First Responders Appreciation
Breakfast for their quick response that saved another person’s life.
Deputies Bennett and Trice were in the Willow Springs area last March when they responded to a call of a patient who had collapsed in his home. The deputies were the first on scene and immediately assessed the situation and
began CPR. After several cycles of CPR had been administered, Wake County EMS arrived on the scene and the paramedics were able to take over, find a rhythm and shock the patient before transporting him to a nearby hospital.
The patient spent the next few weeks on life support, however at the end of the fifth week, the patient was fully awake.
During this time, Deputies Bennett and Trice called and made personal visits to check on the patient. They are credited for the role they played that helped
save the life of the patient that day.
Mr. Hartmann thanked Deputy James Bennett and Deputy Chris Trice for your quick response that helped save the life of a fellow citizen. He noted that this is an example of great compassionate service.
Wake County Human Services: North Carolina Public Health Association Golden Project Award
Mr. Hartmann recognized the Movin' and Groovin' Walking Club, a physical
activity initiative which was honored at the 2015 North Carolina Public Health Association's Annual Conference with a Golden Project Award. He recognized the organizers of this initiative.
The Movin’ and Groovin’ Walking Club is a physical activity initiative that was created in 2011 by Wake County Human Services.
The Movin’ and Groovin’ Program focuses on helping fight the obesity epidemic
through mini physical activity sessions, as well as organized walking, in a free, fun and safe environment. This is the second award that this program has received and the Walking Club is now being offered in four Wake County
municipalities: - Raleigh, Knightdale, Wake Forest and Rolesville.
Mr. Hartmann recognized the following for their involvement in the program:
Sarah Plentl
Elizabeth Spender-Smith
Michelle Mulvihill
Sonya Reid
Sue Lynn Ledford
7
Wake 4-H
Dan Bulatek
Tangela Keaton
City of Raleigh
Andrea Hunter
North Carolina Public Health Association Award of Distinction for Ebola Surveillance
The Communicable Disease Team was honored with an Award of Distinction for their role in the essential surveillance and response to Ebola prevention and
monitoring at the North Carolina Public Health Association’s Annual Conference. This award of distinction recognizes Wake County Human
Services for upholding the guiding principles of the North Carolina Public Health Association through excellence in public health practice. The Communicable Disease Team served as the main point of contact for Wake
County and, in partnership with the State and other local partners, was able to develop a plan to educate the public and properly handle any cases that may
arise. As of this date, Wake County Human Services has done 21-day monitoring of
117 Persons of Interest. This award of distinction recognizes Wake County Human Services for
upholding the guiding principles of the North Carolina Public Health Association through excellence in public health practice: integrity, dignity,
respect, pride, commitment, inclusion and education for individuals and communities.
Mr. Hartmann recognized:
Ruth Lassiter
Nancy Phillips
Mark Werdel
Mercy Anagbogu
Julie Talbert
Ruth Barlow
Michelle Ricci
Carla Piedrahita
Crystal Lormejuste
8
Ivan Lee
Edie Alfano- Sobsey
Sonya Reid
Sue Lynn Ledford
Public Comments: Chairman West opened the floor to public comments.
Mr. Steve Rao, Town of Morrisville Councilman, first thanked the board for acknowledging Breast Cancer Awareness Month. He also thanked
Commissioner Holmes for recently presenting the State of Wake County address to the Town of Morrisville. Mr. Rao noted that there has been a change in the types of companies that are being added to the Triangle's economy. More
and more of these businesses are start-ups. He encouraged a partnership with the county to work on economic incentives and promotion of attracting and
supporting start-up companies. Mr. Rao noted that venture capitalist and angel investment firms could also be brought in as partners in this effort.
Mr. Charles Ritter, a retired aerospace engineer and Chatham County resident, shared his continued concerns with fracking. He presented information about
Chatham County's two-year moratorium on fracking in an effort to protect Jordan Lake. Mr. Ritter said that he had a meeting over the summer with Duke Energy, federal energy representatives and National Research Council
representatives. He shared concerns that the Triangle presents a unique threat with the presence of the Jonesboro fault line, a nuclear plant and the potential for active fracking activities. With the possible environmental risks, Mr. Ritter
called for a two-year moratorium from Wake County rather than the proposed six-month moratorium.
Commissioner Burns noted that the Growth, Land Use, and Environment Committee (GLUE) and staff have been in touch with many of the same parties
as Mr. Ritter, and there are continued efforts to protect Wake County while following the letter of the law. Commissioner Burns noted that laws
surrounding fracking moratorium were recently changed at the state-level and staff is still reviewing options.
Mr. George Mathis, a member of the Wake County Open Space and Parks Advisory Board, shared his concerns about the environmental impacts that fracking practices present without the presence of proper regulation. He said
that, while North Carolina is said to have some of the most stringent regulations on hand, they are flawed. He urged the board to move forward with
the moratorium of fracking activities until more effective regulations are in place to adequately protect the state's natural resources.
Ms. Liz Hutchby thanked the Board of Commissioners for recognizing October
as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She said as a 40-year resident of Wake County, she has long been a proponent of the state's natural resources. She
voiced her concern for the risks that fracking activities present. She said she was disappointed to see the recommended moratorium on fracking was removed from the agenda and asked when it would later be addressed.
Mr. Alan Cormack, a former chemist, noted that he worked closely with the carcinogens that are used in fracking activities and has concerns about their
use and exposure to the public and drinking water supplies. He said he has professional and personal reasons for supporting the GLUE committee's
proposed moratorium on fracking. Ms. Karen Bearden shared concerns over the rapid rate of growth and
development in Wake County. She also voiced her appreciation for the GLUE Committee's proactive efforts in protecting Wake County's natural resources in
the midst of rapid growth. Ms. Bearden encouraged the board to move forward with the moratorium and look for more permanently protective changes to the county's Unified Development Ordinance.
Commissioner Hutchinson thanked the citizens in attendance for speaking up on the issue though the item was pulled from the agenda. He assured them
that the issue will be further researched.
Consent Agenda
Approve Deferral of Land Deal for Naismith Legacy Park Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to approve a deferral of the land deal deadline for the Naismith Legacy Park to February 2016. The
motion passed unanimously.
Request from Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC for a Convalescent Ambulance Franchise (Second Reading)
Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to grant a convalescent ambulance franchise to Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC. for operation of a convalescent ambulance service in Wake County effective October 12, 2015 for
a period of five years. The motion passed unanimously. ORDINANCE GRANTING FRANCHISE TO Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC.
FOR OPERATION OF A CONVALESCENT CARE AMBULANCE SERVICE
WHEREAS, Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC., located in Raleigh, North Carolina, has applied for a franchise for operation of a convalescent care ambulance transport service in Wake County; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 111 of the Wake County Code of Ordinances authorizes the grant of such a franchise by the Wake County Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC.’s franchise request has
been reviewed and given preliminary approval by the Director of the Department of Emergency Medical Services; and
WHEREAS, issuance of the requested franchise will take place only upon a
finding of compliance by the Director of the Department of Emergency Medical Services with Chapter 111 of the Wake County Code of Ordinances and all applicable state statutes and regulations; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED THAT Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC. be granted a franchise of five years’ duration for the delivery of convalescent ambulance service in Wake County, North Carolina, subject to the following provisions:
1. That such franchise renewal shall be issued by the County Manager only subsequent to a finding of compliance by the Director of the Department of Emergency Medical Services with the provisions of Chapter 111 of the Wake County Code of Ordinances and all other applicable State statutes and regulations governing such ambulance services, a copy of which finding shall be maintained in the permanent files of the Clerk to the Board.
2. That if Medex Patient Transport of Raleigh, LLC. discontinues the service
authorized by this Ordinance during the life of the franchise, or fails to comply with the conditions of this ordinance, then upon thirty (30) days’ notice by Wake County, the franchise authorized here shall be declared null and void.
Effective this 5th day of October, 2015. ATTEST: ___________________________ _________________________ James West Denise Hogan Chairman Clerk to the Board
11
Accept $28,133 from the University of North Carolina Department of Emergency Medicine for the Department of Emergency Medical Services
Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to accept $28,133 in revenues for work to be completed in support of UNC’s Department of
Emergency Medicine National Institutes of Health grant. The motion passed unanimously.
12
Tax Committee Recommendations for Value Adjustments, Late Filed
Applications, Collections Refunds and Tax Collections Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to approve the attached recommendations by the Tax Committee. The motion passed unanimously.
1. Report Collections – Wake County Only – August 2015
2. Wake County In-Rem Foreclosure Progress Report – August 2015
3. Consideration of Requests for Adjustments, Rebates, and/or Refunds of Penalties:
(Wake County Only), (Wake County and Town of Apex), (Wake County and Town of Garner), (Wake County and Town of Cary), (Wake County and Town of Holly Springs), (Wake County and Town of Knightdale), (Wake County and Town of Morrisville), (Wake County and City of Raleigh), (Wake County and Town of Rolesville), (Wake County and Town of Wake Forest)
13
4. Consideration of Refund for Taxes, Interest, and Penalties: (Wake County and City of Raleigh), (Wake County and Town of Morrisville), (Wake County and Town of Rolesville)
5. Rebate Details: (Wake County Only), (Wake County and Town of Apex), (Wake County and Town of Cary), (Wake County and Town of Fuquay-Varina), (Wake County and Town of Garner), (Wake County and Town of Holly Springs), (Wake County and Town of Knightdale), (Wake County and Town of Morrisville), (Wake County and City of Raleigh), (Wake County and Town of Wendell), (Wake County and Town of Rolesville), (Wake County and Town of Wake Forest), (Wake County and Town of Zebulon)
6. Consideration of Requests for Tax Relief Exclusions: (Wake County and Town of Angier), (Wake County and Town of Apex)
Regular Agenda Wake County Public School System CIP 2006 and CIP 2013 Reallocations
and CIP 2013 Appropriations (First Reading) Mr. Joe Desormeaux, Assistant Superintendent for Facilities, Wake County Public Schools, presented the first reading for the Wake County Public School
System CIP 2006 and CIP 2013 reallocations and CIP 2013 Appropriation. He said that start-up design is included in each funding phase of a capital improvement plan to design projects anticipated to receive construction
funding in a subsequent funding phase. He said that drivers for selecting projects include crowding projections, swing space timing, calendar alignment,
and site availability. He reviewed site acquisition maps for proposed elementary and middle schools.
Mr. Desormeaux also presented a map on projected school crowding and
shortfalls across the county. He noted the northwest, southeast and north central areas have the highest potential rate of overcrowding.
15
He presented recommendations to the board for middle school projects M-16
and M-12 to open in 2019.
Mr. Desormeaux presented a map on projected high school construction and overcrowding.
16
He presented recommendations to the board for high school project H-13 in the
southeast area to open 2019 for swing space and then serve as a new school in 2020.
17
Commissioner Burns asked about the overcrowding issues around Briar Creek
area and particular H-11. Mr. Desormeaux said that staff is considering alternatives since most of the area is in the watershed. Smaller type schools
and combinations are being considered. Commissioner Burns suggested staff to make the Brier Creek area a priority, as development occurs there, it will make securing future school property a challenge.
Mr. Desormeaux presented the details of recommended reallocations.
He reviewed the needed future actions for the reallocations and appropriations.
18
Commissioner Ward echoed Commissioner Burn’s sentiment, having heard residents' voicing concerns about overcrowding in the Brier Creek area. She
noted there is not a lot of available land in that area to build new schools.
Commissioner Calabria thanked Mr. Desormeaux and his staff for their hard work.
Chairman West asked how staff prioritizes new school construction. Mr. Desormeaux noted schools are prioritizes based on projected growth statistics.
Public Hearing and Approval of the FY2015-2016 Rural Operating
Assistance Program (ROAP) Grant Request
Wake County Housing and Transportation Manager Annemarie Maiorano, presented the terms of the request for the Rural Operating Assistance Program
(ROAP) grant. She introduced, Mr. Don Willis, Human Services Transportation Manager, to assist if there are questions from the board.
Ms. Maiorano said the Wake Coordinated Transportation Service (WCTS) operates under several grant programs through the North Carolina Department
of Transportation (NCDOT). The ROAP grant program was created to provide operating assistance for trips serving the elderly, disabled, employment, and
rural public general purposes. For Fiscal Year 2015-2016 WCTS has been allocated $533,370 in total ROAP
funding from the state. This year the state modified the formula used to allocate funds to the TRACS rural public services by using the federal urbanized area definition, resulting in a sixty-five percent (65%) reduction in
funds compared to last year to serve a smaller geographic area of the county. This change will result in less people qualifying for trips eligible under the
grant. Last year TRACS was able to perform 11,001 rural public funded trips. It is estimated that the program will be short in providing 9,000 less total trips this year under this funding source.
She noted that CAMPO and the City of Raleigh have agreed to help fill the gap
in the Wake Coordinated Transportation Service (TRACS) with an additional $148,000. While this does not completely fill the funding gap, it will go a long way to keeping the program operational. The Raleigh City Council is expected
to approve the additional funding in November. Vice-Chair Sullivan asked how the gap in CAMPO funding will affect the
program. Ms. Maiorano said that funds will exhaust sooner, but since the City of Raleigh is expected to approve the funding in November and this will help.
She said the state is guiding the transportation program toward the MPO to apply for allocations in 2016. She said it is the hope that the program funding gap will be minimal before the MPO application can be approved.
Commissioner Hutchinson asked staff to express the board's appreciation for CAMPO's support.
Commissioner Calabria thanked Ms. Maiorano for her efforts. He asked if
Housing and Transportation will be discussed at a future Work Session. Ms. Maiorano said transportation would be discussed at a future Work Session.
Commissioner Burns noted that the program received $163,000 in cuts last year. He noted that this program serves vulnerable members of the community that face mobility options. Ms. Maiorano said this is very often a transportation
option of last resorts for residents. Commissioner Burns noted that the state cut $280,000 from the counties last year.
Commissioner Calabria added that these services were already over-extended prior to the cuts.
Commissioner Holmes asked for increased transparency to residents, providing
details of the exact terms of the service provided through this program. Chairman West asked if there is pattern in the cuts for planning for the future.
Ms. Maiorano said that she and Mr. Willis met with the state last week. They would like to partner with access from funding with the City of Raleigh and
CAMPO. Ms. Maiorano said staff is reviewing changes in funding, where the funding is coming from and how it is accessed.
Chairman West opened the public hearing. There were no comments from the public.
Chairman West closed the public hearing. Ms. Maiorano asked board to approve the grant request.
Sig Hutchinson moved, seconded by Betty Lou Ward, to hold a public hearing and to approve a ROAP grant application be made to the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in the amount of $533,370 as detailed. The motion passed unanimously.
Public Hearing and Approval of the Services 2016-2017 Community
Transportation Program Grant Request Ms. Maiorano presented the request to pursue a grant which would fund replacing the TRACS program's fleet. She said there is a 42 vehicle fleet which
requires replacement of vehicles when they have exceeded their useful life. Commissioner Calabria asked how long it takes a grant request to be fulfilled.
Ms. Maiorano said the request is typically 18-to-24 months. Commissioner
Calabria asked how staff manages during that waiting period. She said that staff accounts for this turn around, and will utilize creative management
solutions for any vehicles that are in immediate need for repair or replacement. Commissioner Calabria asked about the wait time. She said that the
Department of Transportation has indicated the length of time allows for lift equipment to be placed on vans. Initially there was a contractor issue, but that has since been resolved.
Commissioner Burns asked if there are any other departments that could use these vehicles. Ms. Maiorano said that option has been explored and that the
grant program requires the vehicles be returned to the state.
Commissioner Hutchinson asked Ms. Maiorano to share information about leasing vehicles to assist with the need. Ms. Maiorano said there is a Task Force that discusses transportation issues. There is discussion about leasing
vehicles and recouping the cost through a Medicaid reimbursement. The number of vehicles needed, the funding that can be reimbursed; and the cost of
the leased vehicles are being evaluated. Vice-Chair Sullivan asked about the funding and its impact on transportation
for citizens that need it for medical appointments. Ms. Maiorano said there is a wait. Commissioner Ward asked if there was other transportation available if there is a wait. Ms. Maiorano said that the addition of vans should help with
wait times.
Commissioner Calabria asked if there are multiple riders on trips. Mr. Willis said this is a shared ride/shared ride transport, which means that, along with the wait time due to a shortage in vehicles, trip times are increased along with
customer frustrations. Commissioner Calabria noted that this leaves some customers at-risk of missing medical appointments.
Chairman West said that limited resources does lead to reduction in services.
Commissioner Burns thanked Ms. Maiorano and her staff for their work with Housing and Transportation and for working toward additional funding for the program. Commissioner Calabria echoed those efforts.
Chairman West opened the public hearing.
There were no comments from the public. Chairman West closed the public hearing.
Ms. Maiorano recommended approval of the Community Transportation Program Grant Request.
Betty Lou Ward moved, seconded by Sig Hutchinson, to hold a required public
hearing on the Community Transportation Program and authorize the
21
Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners to sign the Resolutions to Apply, Certifications and Assurances and affix the signatures of local officials as
required. The motion passed unanimously.
Public Hearing to Receive Public Comment on a Request to the North Carolina Board of Transportation to Close and Abandon Portions of the
Rights-of-Way for Gilcrest Farm Road and Oak Grove Church Road in the Wake Forest Area (Petition ROW-A-01-15)
Mr. Keith Lankford, Wake County Planner, presented the proposed request to the North Carolina Board of Transportation to close and abandon portions of the right-of-way (ROW) for Gilcrest Farm Road and Oak Grove Church Road in
Wake Forest. He shared a location map of the property.
He shared information about the purpose of the right-of-way abandonment.
• As part of Wake Forest’s (and NCDOT’s) approval of the Traditions at Wake Forest subdivision, they required that the existing 30-degree
intersection (traffic hazard) must be realigned to a standard 90-degree intersection
• The relevant segments of these two roads have been realigned in the
public interest/safety, so these ROW segments are no longer needed • The new road segments are constructed and open to traffic, and the old
Mr. Lankford said these rights-of-way segments are being closed and abandoned because the roads have been realigned as part of the master subdivision plan for the Traditions at Wake Forest project. The subdivision
plan for this project was originally approved by the Town of Wake Forest (and NCDOT) in 2008. The plan approval required that the roads be realigned because the existing intersection of Gilcrest Farm Road and Oak Grove Church
Road formed an awkward 30-degree angle, which posed a traffic hazard. The realigned road intersection forms a standard perpendicular intersection that
will allow for safer traffic movement. The road realignments have been completed with the new road segments, and their associated rights-of-way open to traffic, and the old roadway segments removed.
The North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) establishes different authorities
for counties than they do for municipalities. While municipalities have broad authority to close and abandon public rights-of-way within their corporate limits and ETJs, counties have very limited direct authority. NCGS 153A-241
effectively limits the county authority to only closing “paper streets” roads that are shown as rights-of-way on recorded plats, but never constructed or opened to traffic.
Mr. Lankford said; in this case, both Oak Grove Church Road and Gilcrest
Farm Road have been constructed and accepted/maintained by NCDOT. Both of the rights-of-way are 50 feet wide with existing roadways that are 20 feet wide. Therefore, based upon NCGS 153A-241, Wake County cannot directly
close and abandon either right-of-way.
Mr. Lankford said the statute notes that the county Board of Commissioners can make a request and that the "Board of Transportation shall thereupon make inquiry into the proposed change or abandonment, and if in its opinion
the public interest demands it, shall make such change or abandonment."
23
Mr. Lankford said the Town of Wake Forest conducted a public hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 2015, and adopted a favorable resolution to close and
abandon their portions of the subject rights-of-way.
• Planning staff sent letters to the adjoining property owners, posted 2 public hearing signs along each ROW, and published 2 legal ads in the newspaper
• Wake County planning staff has received no calls in response to those notification efforts
• The petitioner represents the adjoining property owners and supports the
request • The Town of Wake Forest and NCDOT support the request
He noted that state law allows the county to request the Board of Transportation make the road close on the county's behalf. He shared the NC
General Statute information.
• Staff determined that the best way to address the statutory deficiencies was to hold a public hearing to receive public comment, and if approved, forward the staff report, meeting minutes, and adopted resolution to
NCDOT with a request for the NC Board of Transportation to formally close and abandon the ROWs
He shared the next steps and staff findings.
• If approved by the Board of Commissioners and the NC Board of Transportation, the land within the abandoned ROWs will be recombined with the adjacent lots
Staff findings
1. The closure and abandonment of the relevant portions of the subject rights-of-way stems from a requirement by the Town of Wake Forest and
NCDOT to realign these roads so as to create a safer intersection.
2. The creation of a safer intersection and the elimination of the existing
awkward 30 degree intersection are in the public interest 3. The adjoining property owners, Wake Forest and NCDOT are in support
of the request to close and abandon the relevant portions of these rights-
of-way.
4. The realigned roads/rights-of-way will maintain access to all relevant properties.
24
5. The abandoned rights-of-way segments will be recombined with the adjoining properties
6. The Town of Wake Forest conducted a public hearing on Tuesday,
September 15, 2015 and adopted a favorable resolution to close and
abandon their portions of the subject rights-of-way
Commissioner Burns asked about the land that is in county jurisdiction and
whether it will remain in Wake County. Mr. Lankford said the land outside the right-of-way will remain in the county's jurisdiction. The Town of Wake Forest
will annex the entire part of the upper part inside of the right-of-way. Chairman West opened the public hearing.
There were no comments from the public. Chairman West closed the public hearing.
Mr. Lankford called for approval of the request.
John D. Burns moved, seconded by Betty Lou Ward, to hold, a public hearing
and approve a request to the North Carolina Board of Transportation to close and abandon portions of the rights-of-way for Gilcrest Farm Road and Oak Grove Church Road stemming from the realignment of these roadways. The
motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION APPROVING A REQUEST TO THE NORTH CAROLINA BOARD OF TRANSPORTATION TO CLOSE AND ABANDON PORTIONS OF THE RIGHTS-OF-WAY OF GILCREST FARM ROAD (SR 1943) AND OAK GROVE CHURCH ROAD (SR 1942) WHEREAS, John Meyers of WS-TWF Development, LLC has requested the closure and abandonment of portions of Gilcrest Farm Road (SR 1943) and Oak Grove Church Road (SR 1942); WHEREAS, the closure and abandonment of the relevant portions of the subject rights-of-way stems from a requirement by the Town of Wake Forest and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to realign these roads so as to create a safer intersection;
WHEREAS, the creation of a safer intersection and the elimination of the existing awkward 30-degree intersection are in the public interest;
WHEREAS, the adjoining property owners and NCDOT are agreeable to the request to close and abandon the relevant portions of these rights-of-way; WHEREAS, the realigned roads/rights-of-way will maintain access to all relevant properties;
25
WHEREAS, the abandoned rights-of-way segments will be recombined with the adjoining properties; WHEREAS, the Town of Wake Forest conducted a public hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 and adopted a favorable resolution to close and abandon their portions of the subject rights-of-way; WHEREAS, the Wake County Board of Commissioners held a duly-noticed public hearing on October 5, 2015 to consider adopting a resolution to request that the North Carolina Board of Transportation close and abandon portions of the rights-of-way for Gilcrest Farm Road (SR 1943) and Oak Grove Church Road (SR 1942). NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE WAKE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:
SECTION I The requested closure and abandonment of the relevant portions of Gilcrest Farm Road
(SR 1943) and Oak Grove Church Road (SR 1942), is found to be in the public interest, and otherwise promotes the public health, safety and general welfare, Therefore, the Wake County Board of Commissioners hereby requests that the North Carolina Board of Transportation formally close and abandon the relevant portions of Gilcrest Farm Road
(SR 1943) and Oak Grove Church Road (SR 1942). Commissioner Burns made a motion that the above resolution be adopted. Commissioner Ward seconded the motion, and upon vote, the motion carried this 5th day of October 2015. This Instrument Approved as to Form ____________________ ____________________ Wake County Attorney Date
Adoption of the Schedules, Standards and Rules to be used in Conducting the 2016 County-wide Real Property Reappraisal
Mr. Marcus Kinrade, Revenue Director, reviewed the adoption of the schedules, standards and rules to be used in conducting the 2016 countywide real property reappraisal.
Mr. Kinrade said the proposed schedules, standards, and rules to be used in
conducting the 2016 Countywide reappraisal were submitted to the Board of County Commissioners on September 8, 2015. Notice of a public hearing was advertised in the News and Observer on September 9th and 10th. A public
hearing was held on September 21, 2015. He said there have been no questions to date from the public.
When the Board approves the final schedules, standards, and rules, it shall
issue an Order to Adopt. Notice of this order shall be published once a week for four (4) consecutive weeks in a newspaper having general circulation in Wake County, with the last publication being not less than seven (7) days before the
last day for challenging the validity of the schedules, standards, and rules by appeal to the Property Tax Commission. The notice shall state:
1. That the schedules, standards, and rules to be used in the next scheduled reappraisal of real property in the county have been adopted and are open
to examination in the Wake County Revenue Department and on the Wake County website; and
2. That a property owner who asserts that the schedules, standards, and rules are invalid may except to the order and appeal therefrom to the Property Tax
Commission within thirty (30) days of the date when the notice of the order adopting the schedules, standards, and rules was first published.
He shared the details of the summarized timeline: 1. September 8, 2015 - Submission to Board for consideration, advertise
public hearing in a newspaper of general circulation 2. September 21, 2015 - Public Hearing
3. October 5, 2015 - Board consideration, approval, and adoption 4. Advertise adoption four (4) consecutive weeks: 10/6/15, 10/13/15, 10/20/15, 10/27/15
5. November 5, 2015 - Thirty (30) day appeal window closes He said staff plans to return to the board at the November 16 meeting with
results.
Sig Hutchinson moved, seconded by Caroline Sullivan, to adopt the schedules,
standards and rules to be used in conducting the 2016 County-wide reappraisal and directs the Revenue Director to publish notice of the adoption in the News and Observer for four consecutive weeks. The motion passed
unanimously.
ORDER ADOPTING THE SCHEDULE OF VALUES,
STANDARDS AND RULES FOR THE 2016 COUNTYWIDE REAPPRAISAL
27
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-286, all real property in Wake County will be reappraised in accordance with the provisions of N.C.G.S. 105-283 and N.C.G.S. 105-317 as of January 1, 2016; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of N.C.G.S. 105-317, the Revenue Director submitted the proposed schedule of values, standards and rules to the Board of County Commissioners on September 8th, 2015; and WHEREAS, notice of submission to the Board of County Commissioners and the date of a required public hearing was advertised in the News and Observer on September 9th and 10th, 2015; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing on the proposed schedule of values, standards and rules was held on September 21st, 2015; NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED that the submitted schedule of values, standards and rules to be used in appraising all real property located in Wake County as of January 1, 2016 is hereby adopted. Notice of this order of adoption shall be published once per week for four consecutive weeks in The News and Observer. The adopted schedule of values, standards and rules shall be appealable to the State Property Tax Commission for thirty days, ending November 5th, 2015. The adopted schedule of values, standards and rules is available for public inspection in the Revenue Department, 301 S. McDowell St, Suite 3800, Raleigh, North Carolina and on the Wake County website. So ordered this 5th day of October, 2015. _______________________________ James West, Chairman Wake County Board of Commissioners
Appointments
Commission for Women Vice-Chair Sullivan nominated Ms. Barrett Brewer, Ms. Jackie Hughes, and
Ms. Jennifer Gray for reappointment.
Fire Commission Vice Chair Sullivan nominated the following for reappointment:
Fire Service Planning and Service Regions - South Region
