MINUTES
WATAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022
The Watauga County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting, as scheduled, on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 5:30 P.M. in the Commissioners’ Board Room located in the Watauga County Administration Building, Boone, North Carolina.
Chairman Turnbow called the meeting to order at 5:32 P.M. The following were present:
PRESENT: Larry Turnbow, Chairman
Charlie Wallin, Vice-Chairman
Todd Castle, Commissioner
Braxton Eggers, Commissioner
Ray Russell, Commissioner
Andrea Capua, County Attorney
Deron Geouque, County Manager
Anita J. Fogle, Clerk to the Board
Commissioner Wallin opened with a prayer and Commissioner Eggers led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Turnbow called for additions and/or corrections to the December 5, 2022, regular meeting and closed session minutes.
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to approve the December 5, 2022, regular meeting minutes as presented.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to approve the December 5, 2022, closed session minutes as presented.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Chairman Turnbow called for additions and/or corrections to the December 20, 2022, agenda.
Commissioner Castle, seconded by Commissioner Eggers, moved to approve the December 20, 2022, agenda as presented.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Ms. Cindy Randolph with C. Randolph, CPA, PLLC presented the Fiscal Year 2022 County audit. The County’s financial position remained strong due to the direction provided by the Commissioners and carried out by County staff. Ms. Randolph reviewed the following financial highlights:
v The total assets of the County exceeded its liabilities at the close of the fiscal year by $26,236,241 primarily due to an increase in cash assets from revenues, particularly sales tax and property tax.
v The County’s unassigned fund balance for the general fund was $40,373,975 at the end of the year, representing 67% of total General Fund expenditures. This is an increase of $5,500,071 in the unassigned fund balance from the previous year.
v The current year collection rate for property taxes was 98.70% which was a small decrease from last year’s 98.88%. The County is still well above the statewide average of 98.11% for entities of similar populations in fiscal year 2021-22.
v Outstanding debt principal decreased by $5,000,000. Total outstanding debt principal at June 30, 2022 is $36,210,000. Watauga County’s legal debt limit is $736,696,757 so the County continues to be well below the state limits.
v S&P updated their review of the County’s financials and reaffirmed the County’s stable outlook and credit rating at AA.
When asked by Commissioner Russell if there were any adverse findings, Ms. Randolph stated that there was one small finding and a corrective action plan was devised and was now being utilized.
The audit was presented for information only and, therefore, no action was required.
County Manager Geouque stated that, due to strong fiscal management and the increase in the unassigned fund balance, staff recommended to transfer $2,500,000 to the Capital Projects Fund, $2,500,000 to the parking deck project, and $500,071 to the 911/Medic/Emergency Operations facility and for future facilities maintenance.
Commissioner Wallin, seconded by Commissioner Russell, moved to authorize the transfer of the $5,500,071 increase from unassigned balance to the Capital Reserve Account as presented by the County Manager.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
NORTHERN PEAKS STATE TRAIL (NPST) UPDATE AND PROPOSED RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE TRAIL
Mr. Jordan Sellers, Northern Peaks Trail Coordinator, provided an update on the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST). The Trail would connect the Towns of Boone and West Jefferson by traversing the Northern Peaks, also know as the Amphibolite Mountains (including Howard Knob, Snake Mountain, Elk Knob, The Peak, Three Top Mountain, Paddy Mountain, and Mount Jefferson), which divide the New River and Watauga River watersheds. The final route was still under consideration. The nature of the trail was to connect people to nature, fragmented wildlife habitat, Boone to West Jefferson, and visitors and dollars to the High Country. The project would begin by identifying suitable properties and working with land owners. Next, a biological survey would be completed to avoid natural heritage element occurrences and then a professional trail builder would create the trail. Finally, the trail would be completed which would in turn make all the connections mentioned above. The NPST was designated as a State Trail in 2019 and the funding for the biological survey was secured in 2022. Since that time, a $3.4 million PARTF grant was awarded to Elk Knob State Park for a 4.5-mile loop as well as a summit approach trailhead, parking, a bridge, and restrooms. Groundbreaking for the project would be in 2023. Mr. Sellers presented a proposed resolution in support of the trail. Chairman Turnbow read the resolution.
Commissioner Russell, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to adopt the resolution of support for the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) as presented.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
HIGH COUNTRY CAREGIVERS PRESENTATION
On behalf of Ms. Pana Columbus, Mr. Jacob Willis, Executive Director of High Country Caregivers, presented an overview of the organization. The organization was founded to help provide respite care for those caring for others. Over time the main focus transitioned to providing aid to grandparents who were raising grandchildren with respite care remaining in place as well. Mr. Willis stated that there were currently 71 caregivers and 83 children receiving support from the High Country Caregivers. Over the past three years, High Country Caregivers has spent $175,000 in legal fees to assist grandparents in gaining custody of their grandchildren which would keep the children out of the system. The local Department of Social Services and the school system provides referrals. The High Country Caregivers also provide camps for childcare while grandparents work. Mr. Willis thanked the Board members for the work they do. The report was for information only and, therefore, no action was required.
A. Requested Award to Retiring Officer
Chairman Turnbow, on behalf of Major Redmon, stated that Lieutenant Rick Ruppert was retiring February 1, 2023, and the Sheriff’s Office had requested his side arm and badge be awarded to him upon retirement.
G.S. 20-187.2 allowed governing bodies of a law enforcement agency to award a retiring member the service side arm at a price determined by the governing body. Law enforcement personnel may retire at age 55 with 25 years of credible service with full retirement benefits. The price of the side arm was suggested at $1.
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Castle, moved to award Lieutenant Rick Ruppert’s side arm and badge to him upon retirement and set the price of the side arm at $1.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Chairman Turnbow, on behalf of Major Redmon, stated that steps were being taken to name the Highway 321 Watauga River Bridge in memory of Sergeant Christopher David Ward.
The procedures for naming roads/bridges/ferries by NCDOT included adopting a resolution and submitting background information on the nominee, description of what was being requested to be named, and public input and support to NCDOT staff. NCDOT staff would then review the information to ensure the application met policy and would confirm that there was not any local opposition. After review the NCDOT staff would forward to the Transportation Road, Bridge, and Ferry Naming Committee for action. The Board member representing the area where the requested bridge was located must endorse the request. If approved, the Transportation Road, Bridge, and Ferry Naming Committee would forward a resolution for the Board of Transportation’s approval. The Board of Transportation would then approve or deny the request.
In an effort to meet the public forum requirement by the NCDOT, staff recommended a public hearing be scheduled for the January 17, 2023. The public hearing was not required but would provide an opportunity to share the required public input and support with NCDOT. A proposed resolution was presented of which, upon completion of the public hearing, the Board could adopt and forward to NCDOT for consideration. There was also a $2,000 fee for the signs and installation which was proposed to be paid by the County.
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Castle, moved to proceed with the Bridge naming; however, Chairman Turnbow tabled consideration until a public hearing was held.
By consensus, the Board agreed to hold a public hearing on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 5:30 P.M. to allow citizen comment regarding the request to name the Highway 321 Bridge over Watauga River near Watauga River Road in memory of Sergeant Christopher David Ward.
County Manager Geouque stated that the Sheriff’s Office has been in contact with Deputy Logan Fox’s father who was still considering naming options to honor his son.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Turnbow stated that Planning and Inspections/Economic Development Director, Joe Furman, was retiring and read a proclamation honoring Mr. Furman’s thirty-eight years of service to the County. Chairman Turnbow presented the proclamation to Mr. Furman who thanked the Board and stated that it had been a pleasure working for the County and looked forward to continuing to have a role with economic development through the Chamber of Commerce.
MIDDLE FORK GREENWAY MATTER
Proposed modification to the Resolution – Water Resources Development Grant Adopted June 7, 2022.
Mr. Joe Furman, Planning and Inspections Director, stated that a Water Resources Development Grant Resolution was adopted by the Board at the June 7, 2022, meeting. The purpose of the resolution was for the County to sponsor the Middle Fork Greenway, Boone Gorge Park Development. The Resolution stated, “The Board requests the State of North Carolina to provide financial assistance to Watauga County for Middle Fork Greenway in the amount of $500,000 or 20 percent of the construction cost, whichever was the lesser amount.” The item should have stated 30 percent which takes into consideration the total project implementation and not just construction costs. Chairman Turnbow read the resolution.
Commissioner Russell, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to amend the Resolution - Water Resources Development Grant Adopted June 7, 2022 to state 30 percent instead of 20 percent as presented by Mr. Furman.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
TAX MATTERS
A. Monthly Collections Report
Mr. Larry Warren, Tax Administrator, presented the Tax Collections Report for the month of November 2022. The report was presented for information only and, therefore, no action was required.
B. Refunds and Releases
Mr. Larry Warren, Tax Administrator, presented the Refunds and Releases Report for November 2022 for Board approval:
TO BE TYPED IN MINUTE BOOK
Commissioner Russell, seconded by Commissioner Eggers, moved to approve the Refunds and Releases Report for November 2022 as presented.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
REQUEST TO APPLY FOR LOCAL ASSISTANCE AND TRIBAL CONSISTENCY FUND
Ms. Samantha Jones, Finance Director, requested approval to apply for funds from the Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund Grant and to accept the funds, if granted, which would be in the amount of $100,000 ($50,000 FY 2022, $50,000 FY 2023). The funds would be used to pay for unanticipated increases in Sheriff, Maintenance, Emergency Management, and Animal Control vehicles.
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Castle, moved to authorize staff to apply, accept, and expend funds from the Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund Grant as requested by Ms. Jones.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
MISCELLANEOUS ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
A. Proposed SECU ATM Lease Renewal
County Manager Geouque stated that the County was recently contacted by the State Employees Credit Union regarding the ATM lease at the Human Services Complex. Initially, the Credit Union proposed removing the ATM due to cost cutting measures. However, County staff requested the ATM remain as it serves the Social Services Department, DayMark Recovery, Project on Aging, NC Works, AppHealthCare, and citizens that reside on the western side of the county. After negotiations, staff was able to secure the lease for an additional three (3) years. A reduction in the current lease payment from $450 to $250 per month would allow for the ATM to remain at the current location. No other changes were made to the current agreement.
The County Manager stated that the Credit Union has been a good steward and that staff would recommend the Board approve the lease agreement for $250 a month for a three (3) year period beginning January 1, 2023. County Attorney Capua stated that she had reviewed the contract and suggested amending the lessor name to “Watauga County” not “Watauga County Finance Department.”
Commissioner Wallin, seconded by Commissioner Russell, moved to approve the lease agreement, including amending the lessor name to “Watauga County” for $250 a month for a three (3) year period effective January 1, 2023.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
B. Boards and Commissions
County Manager Geouque presented the following:
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission (EDC) Articles of Association were recently amended to reflect a reorganization of the membership. The EDC, when all appointments were made, would consist of eleven (11) members - eight (8) would be standing seats representing organizations, and three (3) would be at-large seats appointed by the Board of Commissioners.
The eight (8) standing seat representatives are listed below:
|
Watauga County Board of Commissioners |
Larry Turnbow |
Chairman |
|
Boone Town Council |
Tim Futrelle |
Mayor |
|
Blowing Rock Town Commission |
Pete Gherini |
Commissioner |
|
Beech Mountain Town Council |
Barry Kaufman |
Mayor |
|
Seven Devils Town Council |
Bob Bertini |
Citizen designated by Town Council |
|
Appalachian State University |
Matthew Dockham |
Director of External Affairs & Community Relations |
|
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce |
Charles Hardin |
President and CEO |
|
Boone Area Chamber of Commerce |
David Jackson |
President and CEO |
Three At-Large appointments were needed.
The County Manager stated that volunteer applications were received from the following expressing interest in serving on the EDC as an at-large appointee: Jane Lee Rankin, Kelly Coffey, Dan Meyer, Virginia Lee Wallace, Angela King, and Suzanne Livesay. As this was a first reading and, therefore, no action was required; Chairman Turnbow tabled this item until a future meeting as there may be more who were interested in serving as well. This was a first reading and, therefore, no action was taken.
Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program Advisory Board
The Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program Advisory Board recommended the re-appointment of Kelly Coffey and Joe McNeil. Each were willing to continue to serve if so reappointed.
Commissioner Eggers, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to waive the second reading and reappoint Kelly Coffey and Joe McNeil to the Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program Advisory Board.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Commissioner Appointments to the Watauga County Planning Board and Boone Rural Fire Protection Service District Board
Each Commissioner nominates a representative to the Boone Rural Fire Protection Service District Board and the Watauga County Planning Board whose terms run concurrent with the term of the appointing Commissioner. Planning Board members must live within the appointing Commissioner’s District and action must be taken by the entire Board of Commissioners to make these appointments. Boone Rural Fire Protection Service District Board members must own property and reside within the Fire Service District.
Chairman Turnbow, seconded by Commissioner Wallin, moved to reappoint Jody Eller to the Boone Rural Fire Protection Service District Board and Marsha Walpole to the Planning Board; both as representatives of District 4.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Commissioner Castle, seconded by Chairman Turnbow, moved to appoint Reggie Hasler to the Boone Rural Fire Protection Service District Board and Savva Kostis to the Planning Board both as representatives of District 1.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Commissioner Russell tabled appointments to his district until a future meeting.
Commissioner Appointments to Various Boards & Commissions
A list of Boards & Commissions on which the Commissioners themselves have served in the past was presented. Some of the appointments were legal requirements that the Commissioners serve, and some were at the request of the agencies. The majority of these appointments could be made by the Chairman of the Board, although several of them do require Board action. Therefore, it has been the practice for the Chairman to submit a list of appointments with Board action to approve the entire list. If there was more than one nomination for a particular appointment, the Board could vote on each nomination separately.
Chairman Turnbow tabled this item to a future meeting.
C. Announcements
County Manager Geouque announced that the January 3, 2023, regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners has been cancelled. The next regular meeting of the Board would be on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 5:30 P.M. The County Manager stated that a special meeting could be called, if needed.
There was no public comment.
CLOSED SESSION
At 6:37 P.M., Commissioner Wallin, seconded by Commissioner Russell, moved to enter Closed Session to discuss Attorney/Client Matters, per G. S. 143-318.11(a)(3) and Land Acquisition, per G. S. 143-318.11(a)(5)(i).
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Commissioner Wallin, seconded by Commissioner Eggers, moved to resume the open meeting at 8:54 P.M.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
ADJOURN
Commissioner Wallin, seconded by Commissioner Eggers, moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54 P.M.
VOTE: Aye-5
Nay-0
Larry Turnbow, Chairman
ATTEST:
Anita J. Fogle, Clerk to the Board