HomeMy WebLinkAbout5-7-2019
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May 7, 2019
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PRE-AGENDA MINUTES
May 7, 2019
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in pre-agenda session on Tuesday, May
7, 2019 at 5:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room located in the Iredell County
Government Center 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chairman James B. Mallory III
Vice Chairman Tommy Bowles
Jeff McNeely
Marvin Norman
Board Members Absent
Gene Houpe
Staff present: County Manager Beth Jones, County Attorney Lisa Valdez, Deputy County
Manager Susan Robertson, Assistant County Manager Joe Pierce and Clerk to the Board Amy
Anderson.
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman James Mallory called the meeting to order.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA:
Add: Request for approval of a proclamation of National Law Enforcement Week under
Presentation of Special Recognitions and Awards.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing to consider a request from James Takes to rezone approximately 3.33
acres at the corner of Canvasback Road and Brawley School Road from Residential
Agricultural (RA) to Neighborhood Business Conditional District (NB-CD): Planning
Director Matthew Todd said the request matches the 2030 Horizon Plan. Some residents in the
area are concerned about stormwater. The request is conditional and will only allow mainly office
uses. Although, it is not a condition, the applicant plans to have a stormwater pond on the lower
end of the property. The Planning Board voted unanimously in favor of the rezoning.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked if a stormwater pond is a requirement because of the
watershed.
Todd said a stormwater pond is not a requirement but can be made a condition at the
Board’s discretion and the applicant agreeing to do so.
Chairman Mallory asked if there is any anticipation to hook into the Town of Mooresville
sewer system.
Todd said a septic system will probably be used. The applicant is not currently interested
in water and sewer.
Vice Chairman Bowles said rezoning the property to Neighborhood Business will not a
have significant impact on the current traffic count.
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May 7, 2019
County Manager Beth Jones explained that Regency Lakes Homeowners’ Association
submitted comments regarding the rezoning request. The group was unsure they would be able to
attend the public hearing.
Chairman Mallory asked Todd if he had an opportunity to read the comments.
Todd said the major concern is the stormwater issue. The stormwater from the area does
flow down the ditch line of Canvasback Road and cuts across at Regency Lake.
Commissioner McNeely said he has talked with residents of Regency Lake over the years
and some of stormwater comes from their neighborhood, along with outside the neighborhood.
Public Hearing to consider a request from Coy Deaton of Deaton Properties, to rezone
an approximate 14.4 acre portion of property along Lentz Road, from Residential
Agricultural (RA) to General Business (GB): Planning Director Matthew Todd said the request
is straight rezoning request. The property is currently vacant and adjacent to the Tomlin Mill One
Stop. Planning Board recommended in favor of the request. There was no opposition at the
Planning Board meeting. The land use plan calls for the general area to be interchange commercial.
The interested party runs a mechanic garage.
Commissioner McNeely asked if the rezoning would cover half the property.
Todd said yes.
Vice Chairman Bowles said the request is very reasonable.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Request from Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to proclaim May 19-25, 2019 as
Emergency Medical Services Week: EMS Director Blair Richey requested that the Board
proclaim May 19 – 25 as Emergency Medical Services Week
This item was placed on consent.
EMS WEEK PROCLAMATION
To designate the Week of May 19 - 25, 2019 as Emergency Medical Services Week
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 first responders, emergency medical technicians, paramedics,
firefighters, educators, administrators, emergency nurses, emergency physicians, 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, Iredell County desires to continue to improve upon its emergency medical services system in order to assure all
citizens the highest standards of emergency medical care;
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by
designating Emergency Medical Services Week; now
THEREFORE, the Iredell County Board of Commissioners in recognition of this event do hereby proclaim the week of May 19 -
25, 2019, as
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK
With the theme, Stronger Together, we encourage the community to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies
and activities.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of a Memorandum of Agreement with
the Iredell-Statesville Schools for facility usage for county sponsored programs: Parks and
Recreation Michelle Hepler requests approval of a Memorandum of Agreement with Iredell-
Statesville Schools for Facility Usage for county sponsored programs. Approval of the agreement
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May 7, 2019
includes $50,000 for county sponsored programs and an additional $35,000 to help offset costs
incurred by Iredell-Statesville Schools. The $50,000 was approved in the FY19 budget. The
additional will be included in FY20 budget. The agreement will be revisited in one year with both
entities providing data to help determine future agreements and budgets. Through the agreement,
Iredell County citizens will continue to have access to the facilities for the purpose of recreation
through shared resources and facilities. The agreement also further develops the partnership
between the school system and Iredell County and benefits the local non-profit athletic associations
contributing towards utility and maintenance cost. The intrinsic value of recreation based programs
supports development, character, and physical health and well being of children in the community.
Funding for the agreement will come from the Parks and Recreation budget.
Chairman Mallory said staff from Parks and Recreation met with the athletic associations
to address any concerns they had and to acquaint them with the procedures going forward.
Hepler said over the last six months staff has met with the associations and attended a joint
meeting with Iredell-Statesville Schools to outline the minor changes that will occur. The only
change is the associations will now submit paperwork to the school system who will be managing
the reservation process.
Chairman Mallory said this does not include county administered athletic leagues.
Vice Chairman Bowles said the Parks and Recreation Department controls county
recreation through games and activities that goes through the department however, the County
does not and cannot police, advise, or audit any of the other athletic associations.
Hepler agreed. Staff made recommended guidelines as an attempt to get all the
organizations to be consistent with what they were doing in terms of operation procedures.
Vice Chairman Bowles said this agreement guarantees that any child that wants to play on
team will have a place to play. There are 33 schools listed.
Hepler said the agreement is for non-profit community based programs but does not speak
to travel teams or elite sport organizations. According to ISS policy, it does not guarantee them a
space, there is an opportunity but it is not a guarantee.
Commissioner McNeely attended one of the meetings with the associations and was
impressed with the way they had everything together. The agreement does not place burden on
them. All of the athletic associations have been notified.
Hepler said nothing is really changing about the athletic associations reserving a facility
with the school system. The associations are going to use the same format that they have used in
the past to fill out a facility use form and return it to the school system. The only change is where
the documentation goes and where it is housed, in the past it was housed with the Parks and
Recreation, going forward it will be housed with the school system.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked County Attorney Lisa Valdez about the agreement and if it
protects the County from a liability.
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May 7, 2019
Valdez said the agreement is for county sponsored at school facilities. The responsibility
that the County had is being shifted to the school system. The school system is now responsible
for vetting the athletic associations. The County is no longer the middle man and removed the
County from liability exposure for incidents that may occur.
Vice Chairman Bowles said the County was in a position where it was liable for something
that it had no control over.
Chairman Mallory asked if the soccer and baseball programs through the County will
transition to non-profit athletic associations.
Hepler said there is potential as the programs continue to grow. There is a charter registered
with the State that the County manages. The bi-laws for the charter were recently revised and
includes the revamping of a board that has composition of travel soccer and recreation soccer. In
time, that group may be able to stand on their own. Hepler said Parks and Recreation’s main goal
is to make sure the kids have a place to play and are in a properly ran program.
Commissioner McNeely said it is rumored that the County is getting out of Parks and
Recreation and that is not true. The County has made it more safe and secure for the children and
participants. The County is not walking away.
Vice Chairman Bowles expressed appreciation to Hepler for working tirelessly on this
matter.
Hepler thanked Rob Jackson and Martin Page for their help. Reaching the agreement was
a joint effort.
Chairman Mallory said Parks and Recreation have helped incubate athletic associations but
there comes a time when that chick needs to learn to fly. Chairman Mallory suggested that Hepler
move forward with helping the soccer teams as she did with the athletic associations.
Valdez said the agreements works in tandem with the school system’s use policy and the
school system is working to better incorporate the community and county use of those facilities.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of an automatically renewing
agreement with Swim Club Management Group, Inc. to provide complete management of
the new Iredell County Recreation Center Swimming Pool: Parks and Recreation Director
Michelle Hepler explained the desire to contract the management and operation of the Recreation
Center’s pool. It is not usual for the management of municipal pools to be contracted out. Swim
Club currently manages Mooresville’s pool and Buncombe County. The fee for 2019 swim season
is $37,111 and is turn key to include staff, maintenance, prepping the pool, and offseason
maintenance. This is under budget of what was projected.
Chairman Mallory asked when the pool would open if approved.
Hepler said May 25.
Vice Chairman Bowles said it is not a bad price especially to include lifeguards.
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Hepler budget $45,000 based on the size of the pool and number of guards needed.
Chairman Mallory said these costs are covered by the fee structure.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Human Resources for approval of a resolution in support of Substantial
Equivalency: Human Resources Director Sandra Gregory said a resolution is required as a part of
the Substantial Equivalency application process.
Jones said the Board gave approval to move forward with the Substantial Equivalency
process back in February however, the State needs a documented resolution.
RESOLUTION BY THE IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TO THE NORTH CAROLINA HUMAN
RESOURCES COMMISSION TO DETERMINE IF IREDELL COUNTY MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS FOR
SUBSTANTIALLY EQUIVALENT WITH THE STATE HUMAN RESOURCES ACT
WHEREAS, at their_____________________, the Iredell County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution to assess and
proceed if necessary, with the basic requirements for substantially equivalent personnel system as outlined in NCAC subchapter
II- Service to Local Government, sections .2400, and .2402; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina General Statute Section 126-11 allows local personnel systems to be established for all employees of
the county subject to its jurisdiction with prior approval by the State Human Resources Commission as substantially equivalen t to
the standards established; and
WHEREAS, the Iredell County Board of Commissioners may petition the State Human Resources Commission requesting
substantially equivalent status; and
WHEREAS, the State Human resources Commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the federal
merit system standards and these regulations at a minimum shall include: recruitment and selection of employees; position
classification; pay administration; training; employee relations; equal employment opportunity; and records and reports; and
WHEREAS, the staff and resources are available to Iredell County to maintain a substantially equivalent human resources system
in the areas of Recruitment, Selection, and Advancement, and Classification Compensation; and
WHEREAS, Iredell County seeks a determination of substantially equivalen t in the areas of Recruitment, Selection, and advance;
and Classification and Compensation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Iredell County Board of Commissioners approves and supports this resolution
to the North Carolina Human Resources Commission to determine if Iredell County meets the requirements for substantially
equivalency with the State Human Resources Act.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Finance for approval of the FY20 Juvenile Crime Prevention Council
Funding Plan: Finance Director Deb Cheek explained that the total amount of funding for JCPC
has not changed in many years, however the Council did reallocate some monies because Piedmont
Mediation is programs that are more in line with what the council would like to achieve so their
funding was increased and reduced some other programs. Cheek asked the Board to approve the
funding plan for FY19-20.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked if LIFT was still a member of JCPC.
Cheek does not think so.
Vice Chairman Bowles expressed appreciation to Cheek and Commissioner Norman for
serving on JCPC. That particular part of the population is one that needs to be focused on.
This item was placed on consent.
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Request from Administration for approval of budget amendment #36 to appropriate
Building Permits & Inspection Fees for the purchase of 4600 Harmony Highway: Deputy
County Manager Susan Robertson said the Board approved the purchase of 4600 Harmony
Highway with a not to exceed amount of $40,000. Robertson requested that the amount be
increased to $42,000. A total of $41,000 of receipts was turned in. The rest would be available
should something else come up. Robertson has appropriated additional funds for building permits
and inspection fees.
Chairman Mallory said this purchase was discussed in depth at a prior meeting.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Administration for approval of a resolution supporting continued local
control of Local ABC Boards and opposing forced mergers of local boards: Deputy County
Manager Susan Robertson explained that Commissioner Bowles was approached by someone with
the Town of Mooresville that adopted a resolution in opposition Senate Bill 87 and House Bill 91.
This opposes any changes in the ABC rules that would require local ABC boards to consolidate
and have one county board. In addition, House Bill 971 privatizes the ABC system. This would
result in loss revenue to local programs and mental health programs. Robertson has talked with the
City of Statesville and the Town of Troutman. A lot of local non-profits benefit from profit of
ABC stores in the County.
Vice Chairman Bowles said it seems like a good idea at the surface to save money at the
State level but unfortunately those bills will cut funding and starve programs. There are programs
that are dependent on the profits of the ABC stores. General statute require 7% of the net profit go
into education and addiction programs in the community.
Robertson said .5 of every bottle of liquor sold comes to the County. The County treats that
as a part of the appropriation each year to Partners Behavioral for alcohol education.
Vice Chairman Bowles said DACI also benefits from the sales. This resolution protects
what is here because if it does not come from the sale of alcohol it will be asked to come from the
tax payers and that does not need to happen.
This item was placed on consent.
A Resolution Supporting Continued Local Control of Local ABC Boards and
Opposing Forced Mergers of Local Boards, Senate Bill 87 and House Bill 91, and Changes to the State’s Licensure
Model for the Sale of Spirituous Liquor House Bill 971
WHEREAS, citizens residing within the Town of Mooresville, City of Statesville, and the Town of Troutman voted to
permit the sale of liquor through the establishment of local ABC Boards which are a part of North Carolina’s control system for
the sale of spirituous liquors; and
WHEREAS, by state statute and local ordinances the Mooresville, Statesville, and Troutman ABC Boards are required
to make certain distributions from the net profits derived from the operation of liquor store; and
WHEREAS, such distributions include funding for public school education, parks and recreation, public libraries,
municipal services to its citizens, alcohol and drug abuse education and treatment; and
WHEREAS, the ability to operate ABC stores at the local level allows closer control and monitoring of sales of spirituous
liquor and provides greatly needed funding to the municipalities without the need to increase local property taxes and to fund those
agencies and activities required by statute and local ordinances; and
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 87 and House Bill 91 would require the consolidation of local ABC stores located in Mooresville,
Statesville, and Troutman under the control of one ABC Board in Iredell County; and
WHEREAS, House Bill 971 would allow the privatization of spirituous liquor sales in North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, such action as proposed in Senate Bill 87, House Bill 91, and House Bill 971 would substantially af fect
the ability of local municipalities to control the operation of its local ABC stores, which was specifically given by majority vote of
its citizens when the sale of spirituous liquors was first approved.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Iredell County Board of Commissioners support the current ABC
control system for the sale of spirituous liquors and request that its representatives in the North Carolina Senate and House of
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Representatives oppose the mergers as proposed in Senate Bill 87 and House Bill 91 and changing the licensure model as proposed
in House Bill 971.
Request from Clerk to the Board for approval of the minutes from the meetings on
February 15 & 16 and April 16, 2019: There were no corrections.
This item was placed on consent.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VACANCIES ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
(None)
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Community Child Protection Team (4 Appointments)
Chairman Mallory explained that there are six qualified applicants. The Chairperson over
the committee sent a letter outlining qualifications that the committee looks for. Amanda
Treadway has volunteered to serve as the EMS/Firefighter provider. The committee currently has
a Physician’s Assistant representing the medical community. There are five applicants for the
three at-large appointments, all which have long ties to the County and relevant experience in
dealing with children and situations.
Vice Chairman Bowles said one applicant, Russell Brown, stated on his application that
he works with children at Grandview Middle School in Hickory but that he is an employee of the
City of Statesville. To acquire diversity and to have different factions represented, Vice
Chairman Bowles suggested that Amanda Treadway, Brandy Best, Andy Webster, and Elizabeth
Rashley. One applicant, Kathleen Harknett, indicated on her application that she would need to
leave meetings promptly to get to her clinic. There could possibly be some scheduling conflicts.
Jones explained that the Board of Health appoints the medical provider. The applicants
presented tonight are for at-large appointments.
Vice Chairman Bowles said although two applicants are pediatricians, they were applying
for the at-large appointments.
NEW BUSINESS
(None)
COUNTY MANANGERS REPORT
County Manager Beth Jones gave updates on the following items:
Senator Vickie Sawyer was able to communicate with Roy Cooper and all NC Flags
are ordered to remain at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Friday,
May 10, 2019 in honor of Mooresville Police Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon, who
died in the line of duty in Iredell County on May 4, 2019. The flags were already
ordered at half-staff because of the shooting at UNC-Charlotte.
Community Vigil for Officer Jordan Sheldon will be Wednesday, May 8 from 6:30-
8:30pm at Mooresville Town Hall.
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Community meeting regarding Thyroid Cancer and Coal Ash will be Thursday,
May 9, 2019 starting at 6pm at South Iredell High School.
The budget message will be presented at the 7pm meeting.
Budget work sessions are May 9, 11am – 3pm, May 13, 8am – 12pm, and May 14,
12 – 5pm (if needed).
Chairman Mallory moved into Closed Session at 5:55PM.
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MINUTES
May 7, 2019
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 7,
2019 at 7:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room of the Iredell County Government Center,
200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chairman James B. Mallory III
Vice Chairman Tommy Bowles
Jeff McNeely
Marvin Norman
Board Members Absent
Gene Houpe
Staff present: County Manager Beth Jones, County Attorney Lisa Valdez, Deputy County
Manager Susan Robertson, Assistant County Manager Joe Pierce, and Clerk to the Board Amy
Anderson.
CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Mallory.
INVOCATION: Chairman Mallory said a moment of silence is usually held, however,
tonight an invocation will be said in honor of Mooresville Police Officer Jordan Sheldon, who was
killed in the line of duty. Officer Sheldon’s death has had a tremendous impact on the community.
The community has responded to uplift Officer Sheldon’s family, fiancé, and law enforcement
community. Vice Chairman Bowles led in prayer.
Chairman Mallory said that Governor Roy Cooper has ordered North Carolina flags at state
buildings and grounds to remain at half-staff effective immediately through sunset on Friday, May
10, 2019 in honor of Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon who died in the line of duty on Saturday, May
4, 2019. Memorial services for Officer Sheldon will be Friday at 11am at Calvary Church in
Charlotte. A community vigil will be held Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at 6:30am at Mooresville
Town Hall.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by Chairman Mallory.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA
Add: Approval of proclamation recognizing National Law Enforcement Week under
Presentation of Special Recognitions and Awards.
MOTION by Commissioner Norman to approve the agenda as adjusted.
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VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS
Presentation of a Proclamation honoring Victor Crosby on his 100th birthday:
Chairman Mallory said it is a pleasure to recognize Victor Crosby for turning 100 years young.
Not only for his birthday but to recognize Crosby for a century of accomplishments and
contributions for a majority of that time to Iredell County.
Victor Crosby said, “The first time I arrived in Iredell County, I was greeted of course by
my future family, in-laws, also some people who worked for my in-laws on the family farm. At
least lady that still remembers when I showed up. That was at the latter part of the great depression
and people didn’t travel much then so it was quite an event to have come here from 1,000 miles
away met by a bride-to-be. And, people of course accused me of being a Yankee but I tried to get
by that by saying I wasn’t from New England, I was from west of the Mississippi and thankfully
some of them accepted that. It is still a question in lots of people’s. A lot of people didn’t know
where Iowa was. There is that old song that tells that some of the story that I was born on a farm
out on highway of flaming youth who was bound to fly away, I packed my grip and my saxophone.
It has been quite a trip. It took me all over the United States, Canada, and Mexico. I saw a lot of
how people lived and worked. I used to fly an airplane and operate an airport for sometime. Some
of you may have taken your first airplane ride with me. From that airplane, I could see what they
had in their backyard. I could show you a bullet hole in the wing of my airplane. Times have
changed. I served on jury duty in here a many of time. The Clerk of Court at that time said “if you
have been plowing at home, probably would not have got in relation to what you have accrued.”
It’s been a wonderful life, ups and comings. I have seen a world of people, Vice Presid ents, most
of your senators and governors. It’s been a wonderful trip. I run for county commissioner five
times, but neither party didn’t make that decision. There is a saying that old people know the
answers but nobody ask them questions. That would be party true. I had the privilege of having
eight living ancestors. My first great-great grandfather passed away the same year I was born but
he was still the topic of conversation. Thank you for your time.”
RECOGNITION OF VICTOR CROSBY ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY
WHEREAS, longevity of life is a blessing for an individual and for a community which benefits from the
knowledge, creativity, and experiences this individual brings to all; and
WHEREAS, Victor Crosby was born on May 1, 1919 in Webster City, Iowa and has been a resident of Iredell
County since 1939; and
WHEREAS, He became involved in many facets of the community. Mr. Crosby served as President of
Iredell Community Action Research and Education (I.C.A.R.E) and the master and president of Union Grove Grange;
and
WHEREAS, Mr. Crosby has a deep concern regarding the need to protect our water sources. He played an
integral part of Iredell Water Corporation serving as its first president; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Crosby has expansive knowledge on the genealogy of local families. He was a charter
member of the Genealogical Society of Iredell County and remains active in the society; and
WHEREAS, during a long and productive lifetime, he has demonstrated in countless ways his never-give-up
spirit and the will to improve his community and better the people who live in it.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAMED that the Board of Commissioners of Iredell County honor Mr.
Crosby for his long life and prosperity, a nd wish him many more happy, productive years.
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Approval of proclamation recognizing National Law Enforcement Week : Chairman
Mallory said being reminded of the supreme sacrifice that many of our law enforcements make as
they serve and protect. Each one of them are at risk in the duties that they perform. This upcoming
week is National Law Enforcement Week and it is an appropriate time to reflect on the sacrifice
and courage of the law enforcement community.
Sheriff Darren Campbell said, “Several things resulted out of this tragedy, in the death of
Mooresville K-9 Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon, which lost his life this past Saturday night. Strong
relationships are forming. Strengthening is occurring between law enforcement and our
community. Not just us, but law enforcement through our community partners. Our connections
with other law enforcements agencies are becoming tighter as we work together in these trying
times to maintain safety and security in the communities we work in. Our friendships are forced a
little tighter as we turn to one another for comfort and support. Law enforcement, as you know, is
a large extended family. There may be a small squabble from time to time about who is better or
which agency is more efficient. But, when a member of that family is hurt, or in this case called
upon to make the ultimate sacrifice, we all rally regardless the color of our uniform or the
jurisdiction. We close ranks and protect those who have been hurt or harmed. I want to thank the
Mooresville community and the community partners and individuals who have taken time to come
by the Sheriff’s Office, even though this was not one of our officers. For those who have stopped
by the Sherriff’s Office to drop off food, card, or just well wishes. For those who have prayed
earnest prayers for our deputies and police officers’ safety, protection, and strength during these
trying times. Before I close, I ask the Board of Commissioners formally designate May 12 – 18,
2019 on behalf of myself, Iredell County Sheriff’s Office as National Enforcement Week in Iredell
County and publicly salute the service of law enforcement officers in our community and in
communities across this nation and formally dedicate this proclamation in memory and honor of
Mooresville Police Officer Jordan H. Sheldon, who made the ultimate sacrifice just days ago while
protecting the good citizens of Mooresville and Iredell County.”
Sheriff Campbell read the following poem from the Law Enforcement Memorial’s website
and is a message to all from a fallen officer:
“I seem gone from you now, but I know that somehow
We will reunite in another place.
For “The good they die young”, is a song often sung,
But this verse is flawed on its face.
You see the good don’t die young, but instead they live on,
In memories, and many a heart.
The good that you do does not die when you do.
For the good, death’s not an end, but a start.”
Mooresville Police Chief Damon Williams said, “It is going to be a long week for the
Mooresville Police Department, it is going to be a long week for Mooresville and Iredell County,
and all of our partners here in the County. I’ve been a chief a long time, almost 15 years, and in in
15 years I have had this call now twice and each time I’ve had this call I’ve had good working
partners. I was lucky the first time to have Sheriff James Knight from Edgecomb County. I was
lucky this time to have a good Sheriff in Iredell County in Darren. When I got to the scene that
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night Darren Campbell was already there assisting us. He had already effectively taken and put his
deputies in the Town of Mooresville to assist us with the call volume. You can’t imagine, you go
from effective to ineffective very quickly. But because we have good partners, and not just the
Sheriff’s Office, members of EMS, and fire and rescue. It took all of us that night to bring that
night to a resolve and it is going to take all of us to help heal as we go forward. I want to thank
Sheriff Campbell, not just for that night, but since then sending deputies and officers to assist
where needed. Without even asking, there was a need in the parking lot because there was so much
traffic congestion in front of the police department, you know one of his deputies saw that and
made a call to the Sheriff. The Sheriff called me and said he was going to get me some help in the
parking lot. Didn’t even know that was happening in the front. That is the kind of partnership we
have. I want to thank you all in the County and I want to thank the Sheriff’s Office and all of our
partners here for what you have done in service of the Mooresville Police Department and the
citizens of Mooresville. We could not have gotten through this weekend without you. I thank you
very much.”
Sheriff Campbell recognized Shelby Police Chief Jeff Ledford and Mooresville’s Assistant
Deputy Chief Childress.
Sheriff Campbell said after the tragedy, five patrol deputies were able to move in to cover
Mooresville’s calls from 11pm – 6am in conjunction with them and the Highway Patrol. A total
of 32 officers with 640 hours will be put forth to cover through the next week. The Sheriff’s Office
will also work to cover Mooresville’s on-call status Criminal Investigations Division and provide
School Resource Officers in the Mooresville Graded School District through Friday. The Sheriff’s
Office have offered to help with the Mooresville Race City Fest on Saturday, May 18.
Chairman Mallory said, “On behalf of the County Commission it is so gratifying to see all
the partnering and the team of teams approach that you have where you stand shoulder to shoulder.
No matter which organization is in need, the other organizations always come up alongside,
pitched in, and put their shoulders to the wheel. Never missed a beat, where it was fire, rescue, law
enforcement, or EMS. The willingness of the organizations we have providing service and
protection to the people of Iredell County and it does not matter where you live, you’re all Iredell
County citizens and that spirit extends beyond the borders of Iredell County to our regional
partners. We commend the service that you provide day in and day out to all of us who have no
idea the kinds of situations that you are daily faced with and that you have to, not only deal with
in the moment, but cumulatively over time. We thank you. We salute you.”
MOTION by Commissioner McNeely to adopt resolution as presented.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
Chief Williams said “I would like to thank the Statesville Police Department who has been
a big working partner and even the Iredell County Register of Deeds Mr. Wyatt and more
importantly Deputy Yountz, who was there that night and assisted our officer by performing CPR.
Deputy Yountz, I want you to know on behalf of the family and the entire Mooresville Police
Department, we appreciate your service and what you did.”
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May 7, 2019
Proclamation
National Law Enforcement Week
WHEREAS, the Congress and the President of the United States have designation that there be a National Peace
Officer’s Memorial Day and the week in which it fell National Law Enforcement Week to pay special attention to those law
enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others; and,
WHEREAS, there are approximately 900,000 law enforcement officers serving in communities across the United States,
including the dedicated members of the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office; and,
WHEREAS, since the first recorded death in 1791, more than 20,000 law enforcement officers in the United States have
made the ultimate sacrifice and been killed in the line of duty; and,
WHEREAS, National Law Enforcement Week will be observed this year from May 12th through May 18th; and,
WHEREAS, law enforcement officers are charged with pursuing justice for all individuals and performing their duties
with fidelity to the constitutional and civil rights of the individuals that the law enforcement officers serve; and
WHEREAS, the resolve of law enforcement officers in the service of their communities is unyielding, despite inherent
dangers in the performance of their duties; and
WHEREAS, the vigilance, compassion, and decency of law enforcement officers are the best defense of society against
individuals who seek to do harm; and
WHEREAS, Peace Officers Memorial Day 2019 honors the 163 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty
during 2018, with nine of those being officers in North Carolina; and
WHEREAS, thus far in 2019, 39 law enforcement officers across the United States have made the ultimate sacrifice,
including Mooresville Police Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon on May 4, 2019 and should be remembere d and honored; and
WHEREAS, all citizens of Iredell County should remember and recognize the men and women who serve and protect
them, and keep in mind that there are law enforcement officers working in the County every hour of every day to ensure that they
remain safe.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Iredell County Board of Commissioners formally designates May 12
through May 18, 2019, on behalf of Sheriff Darren E. Campbell and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, Mooresville Police
Department, Statesville Police Department, and Troutman Police Department as National Law Enforcement Week in Iredell
County, and publicly salutes the service of law enforcement officers in our community and in communities across the nation, a nd
formally dedicate this proclamation in memory of Mooresville Police Officer Jordan Sheldon who made the ultimate sacrifice, just
days ago, while protecting and serving the citizens of Iredell County.
APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD
(None)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing to consider a request from James Takes to rezone approximately 3.33
acres at the corner of Canvasback Road and Brawley School Road from Residential
Agricultural (RA) to Neighborhood Business Conditional District (NB-CD): Planning
Director Matthew Todd said conditional district includes basically office uses and one driveway
for all five parcels to Brawley School Road and one driveway connection to Canvasback Road.
Staff supports the request because the 2030 Horizon Plan calls for this area to be Corridor
Commercial, the property is adjacent to existing commercial uses, and the conditions. The use
should be in compliance with existing surrounding uses. Planning Board voted unanimously to
approve the rezoning request.
Commissioner McNeely said that a water retention pond should be made a condition on
the request.
Todd said currently, stormwater does come down Canvasback Road into a pipe that goes
down into Regency Lake. The applicant is proposing a stormwater pond in the corner to catch
stormwater. The applicant is willing to make the stormwater pond a condition.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked if the pond is incorporated with the erosion control plan.
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May 7, 2019
Todd said erosion would be a phase in the development, there are measures that have to be
put in place. Once the site is stabilized, those measures disappear and most are left with a
stormwater issue. The proposed pond would be a permanent stormwater pond that would hopefully
address some of the issues.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked if the applicant is willing to do that.
Todd said yes.
Commissioner McNeely asked if the property will be graded where the water off all the
lots will work towards the pond not just the particular lot that it is on.
Todd said yes.
Chairman Mallory opened the public hearing.
Linda Martinson, 141 Regency Road, representing the Regency Lake Home Owners
Association said as a result of a recent rezoning, there is a pond to hold the water but that the pond,
but it is not effective at all. The association requests that an expert review the flow of water off
Brawley School Road as it hits the clearances. There is a natural drain capacity that has been
exceeded with the commercial development. Erosion is creating heavy sediment deposits in
Regency Lake and is raising the water level. There are several homes that have septic tanks
affected due to rising water levels. The association is responsible for the maintenance of the dam
and drainage system into Lake Norman. This is a great concern of the association. Martinson
requests that the current and proposed stormwater pond be reviewed on a regular basis.
Vice Chairman Bowles said although, the retention pond’s sole purpose is to retain the
water when it rains heavy. It may or may not be able to hold back hundred year rains, but it is
definitely a plus in filtering out sediments and holding the water back so it does not rush to Regency
Lake as fast. The applicant is voluntarily willing to put in a retention pond and it has cleared
Planning staff and Planning Board.
Martinson said the current retention pond is not affective at all. Documentation has been
supplied to that effect.
Chairman Mallory asked Todd about the approval process of a stormwater pond.
Todd said the County does not have a stormwater program however, there is an erosion
control program. The previous rezoning case that was mentioned has an erosion control pond and
some of it is still there but it is not designed for stormwater. That case is a little different than the
current case. Stormwater does flow down hill and the velocity will increase which has the potential
to erode any ditch that the waters flow. Water is going to go into coves of Lake Norman or Regency
Lake. The proposed pond is something that will be required, if made a condition, and will need to
be maintained for the life of the use of the property.
Chairman Mallory asked if the pond is approved or inspected by NCDEQ.
Todd said no. The pond would be designed by the applicant and approved as a part of the
site approval process by the Planning Department.
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May 7, 2019
Vice Chairman Bowles asked if the Erosion Control staff would inspect the pond and how
often.
Todd said staff will from the Erosion Control perspective. Erosion Control ends once the
site is stabilizes. Storm water ponds that are a part of the high density options are inspected
annually, but this one is a different because it is not part of a high density request. It is a condition
with the development, so there will not be a set schedule of inspections.
Commissioner McNeely asked if the Board could set a schedule of inspections to the
conditions.
Todd said yes.
Chairman Mallory said it important that function follow form. The points and concerns are
well made. Chairman Mallory expressed appreciation for the property owner’s willingness to add
a retention pond, but it needs to be affective.
Commissioner McNeely said it is necessary that the pond be inspected annually by an
Erosion Control Inspector.
Todd said staff can inspect them like other high density ponds.
Vice Chairman Bowles said Planning staff is very capable of making sure the pond is
operating properly but asked what happens if the pond fills with sediment or washes out.
Todd said because the pond will be tied in as a condition to the zoning approval it would
follow normal zoning violation procedures. The applicant would have 30 days to correct the issue,
if the applicant does not start working towards compliance, there will be a $100 fine per day.
Vice Chairman Bowles asked the applicant if he was willing to put a stormwater retention
pond, agree to have it inspected annually, and if it fails agree to fix it.
James Takes, applicant, said absolutely. Takes owns three other buildings that have
retention ponds and keep those maintained so there are no issues for his property or for other
property owners. Takes explained the retention pond was designed by a profession engineer who
went out and surveyed the property. Takes feels that the pond will help with sediment.
Vice Chairman Bowles said it seems that the applicant has solved the problem.
Takes said the neighbors shared concerns during a community input meeting and took those
concerns into consideration.
Commissioner McNeely asked if the water will be directed towards the pond.
Takes said yes.
Commissioner McNeely asked that Takes provide a drawing to Planning staff.
Takes asked if the property is sold is the pond treated as a covenant and restrictions.
Vice Chairman Bowles said yes.
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May 7, 2019
Chairman Mallory closed the public hearing.
MOTION by Commissioner McNeely approve in favor of the zoning map amendment,
and to make a finding that the approval is consistent with the adopted 2030 Horizon Plan and that
said approval is reasonable and in the public interest and furthers the goals of the 2030 Horizon
Plan because it is contained within a commercial corridor, it is adjacent to other commercially
zoned property, and traffic impacts should not exceed road capacity.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
Iredell County
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING STAFF REPORT
REZONING CASE # 1904-1
STAFF PROJECT CONTACT: Leslie Meadows
EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST
This is a request to rezone approximately 3.33 acres at the corner of Canvasback Road and
Brawley School Road from Residential Agricultural (RA) to Neighborhood Business Conditional
District (NB-CD). This request is conditional per the submitted application, and will be limited to the
uses attached to the request.
OWNER/APPLICANT
OWNER/APPLICANT: James (“Jim”) Takes
PROPERTY INFORMATION
LOCATION: Josh Acres, Lots 16-20, at the
corner of Canvasback Road and Brawley
School Road; more specifically identified as
PINs 4636892482.000, 4636891356.000,
4636890332.000, 4636799205.000, and
4636797196.000.
DIRECTIONS: West on NC-1100/Brawley School
Road from I-77; property is approximately 3
miles on the left, just after Canvasback Road.
SURROUNDING LAND USE: There is residential
and commercial property to the north, within
Mooresville’s Municipal Planning Area. A mix of residential and GB/HB commercial uses are to
the east. Property to the south is all residential in nature. To the west is a mix of RO/NB
commercial uses.
SIZE: The acreage to be rezoned is approximately 3.33 acres.
EXISTING LAND USE: All five parcels are currently vacant.
ZONING HISTORY: The property has been zoned RA since county-wide zoning in 1990.
OTHER JURISDICTIONAL INFORMATION: The property is located just outside of Mooresville’s short
range USA boundary. The Town of Mooresville has not expressed concern about NB -CD uses at
this site.
OTHER SITE CHARACTERISTICS: The property is located within the regulated WS-IV-CA
Catawba/Lake Norman Watershed Critical Area. Properties with a WS -IV-CA designation along
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May 7, 2019
Brawley School Road are limited to the Non-Residential Low Density Option only; of 24% built-upon
area for new development. The property is not in a flood hazard zone.
IMPACTS ON LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND/OR FACILITES
TRAFFIC: The closest traffic count along Canvasback Road, near the intersection of Canvasback
Road and NC-1100/Brawley School Road and had a traffic count of 4,200 vehicles per day in 2016.
As a local, residential street, there is currently no traffic study data citing capacity for this section
of Canvasback Road. The closest traffic count along Brawley School Road lies to the west, in
front of Brawley Middle School, and had a traffic count of 31,000 vehicles per day in 2017.
According to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan 2008 Study Report for Iredell County, the
capacity for this section of Brawley School Road is approximately 36,600 vehicles per day through
the year 2030.
SCHOOLS: This is a commercial rezoning and should have no implications on local schools.
EMERGENCY SERVICES: This proposal has been reviewed by the Iredell County Fire Marshal’s Office
and Iredell County EMS. Neither office addressed any concerns regarding the request.
UTILITIES: This site is currently served by well and septic.
REQUIRED REVIEWS BY OTHER AGENCIES
LOCAL: The applicant must provide a site plan to the Planning & Development Department for
review before developing the property. Zoning requirements such as parking, landscaping, and
buffering will be reviewed at such time. Watershed calculations and erosion & sedimentation
control standards will also be reviewed for compliance.
STATE: Other than building code, there should be no formal state agency review at this time.
FEDERAL: None at this time.
STAFF AND BOARD COMMENTS
STAFF COMMENTS: The 2030 Horizon Plan calls for this area to be Corridor Commercial in nature,
which includes commercial, office, and/or retail uses along major thoroughfares and highways,
allowing for both large and small mixed-use commercial centers. These areas are both within and
outside the Iredell County Urban Services Area. They may be serviced by and incorporated into
one of the municipalities as some point in the future. The intent of these lands is to provide a mix
of commercial/ retail and office uses at critical nodes or activity centers along major roadways.
Traditional strip commercial development is discouraged within these areas. Instead,
developments should be designed to provide greater connectivity within and to adjacent
developments, pedestrian access should be a priority, and landscaping, signage, and building
design/orientation should be consistent within individual developments.
In order to achieve and maintain these Corridor Commercial development goals, the
owner/applicant has agreed to following conditions:
1.) Limited permitted land uses to include: Accounting, audition or bookkeeping,
Administrative or management services, Advertising agencies, Agencies and offices
rendering specialized services not involving retail t rade such as real estate, insurance,
advertising, architecture, engineering and accounting not listed elsewhere, Employment
agencies, personnel agencies, Finance offices, Insurance agencies, Law offices, Medical
offices, Offices not classified elsewhere (no retail), Real estate offices, and Stock, security
or commodity brokers.
2.) Single story structures only.
3.) Each individual lot will not have direct access to Brawley School Road. All lot must utilize
one shared driveway access to Brawley School Road. One shared emergency exit shall
be allowed onto Canvasback Road.
The Planning staff can support the proposed rezoning request based on the following: The 2030
Horizon Plan calls for this area to be Corridor Commercial, which allows for commercial, office,
and/or retail uses along major thoroughfares and highways. The subject property is adjacent to
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May 7, 2019
other existing commercial uses, and the applicant has narrowed down the list of permitted NB
uses to only include uses that should not exceed existing road capacity.
PUBLIC INPUT MEETING: A public input meeting was held on Tuesday, March 20th, 2018 at Shoals
Grill, beginning at 6:00 pm. Twelve property owners from the area were in attendance to hear
the proposal and ask questions about future development. As a result of this public input meeting,
conditions have been imposed to limit driveway access, building height, and the number of
permitted uses at this site.
SITE REVIEW COMMITTEE: Staff visited the site on March 15, 2019.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION: On April 3, 2019, the Planning Board held a public meeting to hear
the rezoning request. There were a couple surrounding landowners present to ask questions and
express concerns about stormwater drainage patterns and increased traffic flows. The board
voted 8-0 to recommend in favor of the rezoning.
****
Public Hearing to consider a request from Coy Deaton of Deaton Properties, to
rezone an approximate 14.4 acre portion of property along Lentz Road, from Residential
Agricultural (RA) to General Business (GB): Planning Director Matthew Todd said the vacant
property is near the interchange of Tomlin Mill Road and I77. The request does match the 2030
Horizon Plan and is adjacent to an existing commercial use. The rezoning would essentially be
an expansion of a GB designation. Planning Board voted unaminously to support the request.
Chairman Mallory opened the public hearing.
No one wished to speak.
Chairman Mallory closed the public hearing.
MOTION by Vice Chairman Bowles to approve in favor of the zoning map amendment
and to make a finding that the approval is consistent with the adopted 2030 Horizon Plan and that
said approval is reasonable and in the public interest and furthers the goals of the 2030 Horizon
Plan because it is in harmony with the area and it is adjoining commercially zoned property.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
Iredell County
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING STAFF REPORT
REZONING CASE # 1904-2
STAFF PROJECT CONTACT: Leslie M. Meadows
EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST
This is a request to rezone an approximately 14.4 acre portion
of a property along Lentz Road, off of Tomlin Mill Road, from
Residential Agricultural (RA) to General Business (GB). This is a
straight rezoning and no conditions are proposed at this time.
OWNER/APPLICANT
OWNER: Danny & Teresa Sparks
APPLICANT: Coy Deaton (Deaton Properties)
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May 7, 2019
PROPERTY INFORMATION
LOCATION:
Just off Tomlin Mill Road, along Lentz Road, directly behind the One Stop gas station; more
specifically, a portion of PIN 4749923517.000.
DIRECTIONS:
Take exit 59 for Tomlin Mill Road, off I-77. Head west on Tomlin Mill Road. In less than half a mile,
turn left onto Lentz Road. The property adjoins the One Stop gas station property to the rear.
SURROUNDING LAND USE:
There are residential agricultural uses directly to the east, south, and west. There is various
commercial development to the north, and east of I-77.
SIZE:
The acreage to be rezoned includes only the northern most portion of the parcel. T o be exact,
the first 1,020 vertical feet, squared off to total approximately 14.4 acres.
EXISTING LAND USE: The entire parcel is currently vacant, except for an old abandoned and
dilapidated farm structure.
ZONING HISTORY: This property has been zoned Residential Agricultural (RA) since county-wide
zoning was established in 1990. The adjoining parcels to the north (Tomlin Mill One Stop) were
rezoned to General Business in 2012.
OTHER JURISDICTIONAL INFORMATION: This rural property is not located within any municipalities’
Urban Service Area.
OTHER SITE CHARACTERISTICS: This property is not located within a regulated Watershed Area. The
property is not located in a flood hazard zone.
UTILITIES: This site is currently served by well and septic.
IMPACTS ON LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND/OR FACILITES
TRAFFIC: There is no available NCDOT AADT traffic count data for secondary roads, such as Lentz
Road. The closest traffic count is along Tomlin Mill Road, near the on/off ramp for I -77, which had
a traffic count of 4,300 vehicles per day in 2017. According to the Comprehensive Transportation
Plan 2008 Study Report for Iredell County, the capacity for this section of Tomlin Mill Road is
approximately 28,000 vehicles per day through the year 2030.
SCHOOLS: This is a commercial rezoning and should have no implications on local schools.
EMERGENCY SERVICES: This proposal has been reviewed by the Iredell County Fire Marshal’s Office
and Iredell County EMS. Neither office addressed any concerns regarding the request.
EMS: This proposal has been reviewed by the EMS Department. EMS did not address any concerns
on the request.
REQUIRED REVIEWS BY OTHER AGENCIES
LOCAL: The applicant must provide a site plan to the Planning & Development Department for
review to develop the properties. Zoning requirements such as parking, landscaping, and
buffering will be reviewed at such time. Erosion & sedimentation control standards will also be
reviewed for compliance.
STATE: Other than building code, there should be no formal state agency review at this time.
FEDERAL: None at this time.
STAFF AND BOARD COMMENTS
STAFF COMMENTS: Being just off I-77, the parcel in question is adjacent to what the 2030 Horizon
Plan calls a Highway Interchange Commercial area. Highway Interchange Commercial areas
include existing or future commercial, retail, and service uses located proximate to interstate
interchanges on major arterial roadways. Traditional strip commercial development is
discouraged within these areas. Instead, developments should be designed to provide greater
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May 7, 2019
connectivity within and to adjacent developments; pedestrian access should be a priority, and
landscaping, signage, and building design and orientation should be consistent within individual
developments. Uses within these areas generally should include gas stat ions, hotel/motels,
restaurants, and other highway travel related businesses. Secondary uses may include retail,
office developments, and higher-density residential uses.
The Planning staff can support the proposed rezoning request based on the followin g: The
property is adjacent to a Highway Interchange Commercial corridor in the 2030 Horizon Plan and
is adjacent to various existing commercial parcels. Adjoining parcels to the north are currently
zoned General Business, and this rezoning would just be an expansion of that commercial
designation.
SITE REVIEW COMMITTEE: Staff visited site on March 15, 2019.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION: On April 3, 2019, the Planning Board held a public meeting to hear
the rezoning request. No one spoke in opposition to the request. Due to conflict of interest,
board member Kristi Pfeufer was recused. The remaining board voted 7-0 to recommend in
favor of the rezoning
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
County Manager Beth Jones summarized the items that were placed on the consent agenda as
follows:
Request from Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to Proclaim May 19-25, 2019 as
Emergency Medical Services Week.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of a Memorandum of Agreement
with Iredell-Statesville Schools for facility usage for county sponsored programs.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of an automatically renewing
agreement with Swim Club Management Group, Inc. to provide complete
management of the new Iredell County Recreation Center Swimming Pool.
Request from Human Resources for approval of a resolution in support of
Substantial Equivalency.
Request from Finance for approval of the FY20 Juvenile Crime Prevention Council
Funding Plan.
Request from Administration for approval of budget amendment #36 to appropriate
Building Permits & Inspection Fees for the purchase of 4600 Harmony Highway.
Request from Administration for approval of a resolution supporting continued local
control of Local ABC Boards and opposing forced mergers of local boards.
Request from Clerk to the Board for approval of the minutes from the meetings on
February 15 & 16 and April 16, 2019.
MOTION by Commissioner Norman to approve the consent agenda.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
(None)
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD AND COMMISSIONS
Community Child Protection Team – 4 appointments
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May 7, 2019
MOTION by Vice Chairman Bowles to appoint Amanda Treadway (EMS/Firefighter
provider), Brandy Best, Andy Webster, and Elizabeth Rashley.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(None)
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
(None)
NEW BUSINESS
(None)
COUNTY MANAGER’S REPORT
County Manager Beth Jones gave the following budget message:
To the Iredell County Board of Commissioners and Citizens:
Each year in February the Board of Commissioners holds a Budget Planning Retreat where staff
receive direction regarding priorities for the upcoming year. These priorities, along with the
County’s adopted strategic plan and departmental goals, became the framework for what is
recommended in the 2020 Fiscal Year Budget.
Economic Forecasting and Revenue Projections
The County’s budgeting process begins in late December, early January, and includes the analysis
of several factors. In order to estimate anticipated revenues as accurately as possible for the next
fiscal year we analyze building trends, population growth, State and Federal policy decisions,
unemployment rates and personal income, just to name a few. New construction starts are a key
indicator to a growing economic future and show builder confidence in the market. Permitted
housing units are continuing to trend up. Most of that growth is seen in the southern portion of the
county but is beginning to move north.
Iredell County continues to grow at a relatively high rate. According to the US Census Bureau,
Iredell County had an 11.9% increase in population between 2010-2018 making it the 14th fastest
growing county in North Carolina, exceeding the State’s growth rate of 8.9% during the same time
frame.
State projections for 2019 show Iredell County with an estimated population of 182,424 and by
2022 we are projected to reach 191,709 residents. This indicates a 5.09% increase in population
over this next four year budget cycle. Our current 2018 estimated population of 178,435 makes
us the 15th largest county in the State. More importantly, out of all 100 counties in the State of
North Carolina, there are only 14 that have a lower 2018-2019 tax rate.
A low tax rate is a double edge sword in many respects. It assists in business recruitment/retention
and is appealing to new residents but limits the County’s ability to offer the same level of services
as other similar size counties. It is a delicate balance of adequate service delivery and fiscal
conservancy. One key way to sustain a lower tax rate is through strong, conservative fiscal
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May 7, 2019
management and diversification of our tax base through economic development. We continue to
work hard in supporting our existing business and industry by fostering retention and expansion
as well as encouraging new business and industry recruitment. With the partnership of our newly
consolidated Economic Development Corporation, we strive to foster an environment that creates
a premier community to live, work and raise a family. In order to prove successful, we must
remain focused on ensuring our commercial and industrial growth compliments our community
and offers a competitive wage to our residents.
Our unemployment rate has continued to decrease since 2013 and was 3.8% as of February 2019
(Figure 3), which is below the State and equal to the National level. This is a leading indicator
that our economy is strong and stable and lends great confidence in our anticipated revenue
projections.
Iredell County performs a countywide reappraisal every four years, which is reflected in this
2019-2020 Fiscal Year Budget. The purpose of the countywide reappraisal is to equalize the tax
burden among property owners and among all classes of property. The periodic reappraisal of
real property equalizes the tax burden by ensuring all real property is assessed at the current, fair
market value. The two largest sources of the County’s revenue comes from ad valorem tax at
61.31% and local option sales tax at 18.62% as depicted in Figure 4.
Taking all of these factors into consideration, ad valorem tax revenues are expected to increase
8.46% as a result of the reappraisal, which equates to $10,336,046, and 2.35% attributed to new
growth. This provides an overall increase in ad valorem revenue of 10.81%. Taking into
consideration the ebbs and flows of all additional revenue sources, the 2020 Fiscal Year Budget
Recommendation is predicated on an overall growth of 8.55%.
Expenditures
We made every effort to satisfy the priorities of the Board of Commissioners while working within
the confines of our available revenues. To this point, there are over $8 million in recommended
cuts made from the original requests received. The majority of the requests are needs but must be
prioritized, delayed and in some cases eliminated due to limits in revenues.
Figure 5 shows the breakdown of expenditures by category. These percentages are very similar to
years past, with the top three areas being in education (48.0%), public safety (20.4%) and human
services (14.5%).
Education
Funding for the three education systems comprises 48.0% of the proposed General Fund Budget,
with an increase of 11.57% over FY19. In FY20, there is a total increase to public education of
$11,073,483 (figure 6). This will increase the per pupil amount to $1,675, up from $1,625 in
FY19, and will be uniform between Iredell-Statesville Schools (I-SS) and Mooresville Graded
School District (MGSD).
I-SS will see an increase of 3.95%, or $1,466,750, in current expense and 12.24%, or $1,256,294,
in capital outlay. Based on our funding formula, debt service will increase 21.45%.
MGSD will see an increase of 4.65%, or $494,150, in current expense and an increase of 29.91%,
or $608,169 in capital outlay. Debt service will reduce by 3.54%.
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May 7, 2019
Mitchell Community College (MCC) will receive 4.11%, or $142,133, more in current expense in
the upcoming year, while capital outlay will decrease by 13.84%, or $152,585. Debt service will
increase by 113.50%.
This year we created a new Public Safety Budget to address School Safety and Security needs. It
is difficult to adequately address all the public safety needs without a new revenue source. In an
effort to whittle away some of the more pressing public safet y needs, we have allocated a portion
of the ad valorem increase from reappraisal coupled with a portion of the ad valorem funds
allocated towards school capital to create this budget in the amount of $3.3 million. This budget
will begin to fund public safety related needs such as school resource officers, door locks, camera
systems that will link to our law enforcement responders, communications equipment to ensure
seamless and uninterrupted connections between those individuals on site and those responding,
etc. This will be a multiyear effort to slowly and systematically implement priority based resources
to ensure the safety of our children.
Public Safety
The construction of the Jail addition will be complete in late August 2019. Even though the project
exceeded the scheduled completion date due to weather and other unforeseen delays, we anticipate
still completing the project on budget. The Board’s decision to create the Jail Operations Fund
has helped offset the increased operational funds and needs for this facility. The remaining balance
in that fund is used in this budget as we move forward with our first full year of operation. With
the jail coming on line, the purpose and intent of that fund has been satisfied.
Citizen safety remains foremost on our minds and for this reason, the 2020 Fiscal Year Budget
includes an additional 12 new public safety positions. Eleven of these positions are in the Sheriff’s
Office ranging from Road Deputies to School Resource Officers while the remaining position is a
Veterinary Technician Positon in Animal Services. I have encouraged our departments to explore
grant opportunities and partnerships with other agencies when possible to ensure we are being
good stewards of the taxpayers’ dollars and providing premier services as efficiently as possible.
Human Services
It is anticipated that the Social Services renovation at Government Center South will be complete
in late 2019 and will allow us to expand our services to the Mooresville area. With this in mind, I
am recommending seven new mid-year positons in the human services area in our Department of
Social Services. It is important to note that these positions are 40% funded through the State and
will assist us in providing vital services to our citizens.
General Governmental
As a service organization our greatest asset is our employees. The Board has taken great strides
over the past several years to ensure that Iredell County is an employer of choice. We have and
will continue to focus on turnover reduction, which is currently trending at 5.17% from January-
March, 2019. This is a key factor in any successful and thriving organization because employee
retention is more efficient than employee replacement. Staff retention is achieved through creating
positive and safe work environments, engaging your staff and letting them know their voice is
heard, showing appreciation and support, encouraging positive morale and rewarding exemplary
service. For these reasons I am recommending a performance -based merit increase up to 3% this
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May 7, 2019
year. I am also recommending a pay scale adjustment of 3% due to the fact our pay ranges are
lower than our competitors and in order to hire and retain good employees we must be competitive
in the market relative to pay.
One of our most successful ventures regarding employee benefits is the Employee Health Clinic.
We are seeing a steady reduction in our health insurance claims and this is the third year in a row
we are not experiencing a health insurance premium increase (figure 7). We have exceeded our
capacity at the clinic’s current location. I am recommending to relocate the clinic to available
space, previously leased to Partner’s Behavioral Health, at the Health Department to be renovated
allowing for better flow of patients and room to expand. All of those funds will be paid from the
Employee Healthcare Benefits Fund and are made possible through savings realized over previous
years due to lower health insurance claims.
Over the past few years our focus was more on external service delivery departments, which was
necessary in order to keep up with the growth of our County. As a result, we have increased the
pressure on our internal service departments without additional assistance. We have added
facilities and acreage that must be maintained, which is requiring us to add staffing to maintain
those properties. I am recommending three new positions in the General Governmental
Departments. All of those positions are in the Facility Services Department and include
transitioning a part-time carpenter position to full time and the addition of a grounds technician. I
will continue to challenge our departments to explore cost savings that can be realized by bringing
contracted services in house, where practical, and consolidate efforts. Facilities Services has done
exactly that and I am recommending one Day Porter to be housed at the Public Safety Complex.
Solid Waste has one additional position that is funded through the Enterprise Fund as opposed to
the General Fund tax dollars.
Development Services
In the building and land development area we will continue to see growth. Over the past few years
we have made great effort to accommodate the growth with additional staffing and streamlined
solutions where possible. This year I am recommending one new Building Inspector in an effort
to keep up with the magnitude of growth and maintain our desired goal of next business day
inspections. The new permitting and inspections software will go live in August 2019 and this
should further automate the permitting and inspections process while improving our
communication and online services to our development community.
Capital Projects
As the County grows and the demand for services shift, we must ensure we are maintaining our
facilities and expanding where necessary. Within this budget, there is $130,000 proposed in
facility improvements and $3,225,772 to fund the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
We have included funds for various existing facility renovations and repairs, which includes an
additional phase of necessary repairs to waterproof the basement of the Government Center before
we move forward with completion of the remainder of the exterior repairs to restore the historical
character of the building. We are also including funds to upgrade the obsolete technology in the
Commissioner’s Meeting Room to allow us the continued ability to televise and record the public
meetings held in that room.
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This budget includes funds to replace our Vehicle Services Building through relocation to a site
that has adequate space to properly maintain County vehicles. We have budgeted two ambulance
replacements as well as renovation of the soon to be vacated ECOM facility to house the Sheriff’s
Office Special Victims Unit that is currently house in mobile units.
Economic Development
I am proposing to continue the use of some economic development funds to maintain a part-time
liaison position in the Economic Development Corporation to assist existing businesses as well as
smaller commercial entities navigate the development process to ensure we are creating a positive
environment that encourages development and entrepreneurship. We are also setting aside funds
to continue the second year of a new workforce development tool to be utilized by the business
community and school systems called the Edge Factor. This is a unique tool to assist in bridging
the gap between the student, educational entity and work force through creative and relevant videos
and stories.
Fire Funding
A vital service Iredell County provides to the citizens, through the assistance of the volunteer fire
departments, is fire protection. Iredell County contracts with 19 different fire departments to
provide fire protection throughout the County. With diminishing volunteerism throughout, not
just Iredell County but the entire Country, we must get creative in ensuring that help arrives in that
time of need. Regulations continue to grow, the cost of equipment and training continues to
increase yet the funding stream has not. In an effort to achieve a sustainable funding plan moving
forward and to begin addressing personnel, apparatus and equipment needs, I am recommending
a new fire funding plan. The proposal is multifaceted and provides for basic operations, staffing,
apparatus replacement, insurance, hydrants, radio replacements and debt service. It creates a new
All-County Fire Service District to include the former service tax district and the four voted in tax
districts. This new All-County Fire Service District will be taxed at eight (8) cents as opposed to
the former seven (7) cents and will set the voted in tax district rates to zero. This will apply to all
the fire departments with the exception of the two municipal departments of Statesville and
Mooresville. This new funding proposal would require an additional penny on the fire tax rate to
implement but will move the fire service toward a more sustainable funding plan.
Recommendation
This message fulfills my obligation under North Carolina General Statue 159-11 to present the
recommended Fiscal Year 2020 budget of $222,655,992. This will maintain the tax rate at 52.75
cents per $100 valuation with a revenue neutral rate of 48.72 cent per $100 valuation as a result of
reappraisal. This budget is based on a tax base of $25,678,684,000 with a collection rate of
98.91%. The fund balance on June 30, 2019 is estimated to be $43,094,301, which is 19.35% of
the recommended budget.
****
County Manager Beth Jones gave updates on the following items:
Senator Vickie Sawyer was able to communicate with Roy Cooper and all NC Flags
are ordered to remain at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Friday,
May 10, 2019 in honor of Mooresville Police Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon, who
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died in the line of duty in Iredell County on May 4, 2019. The flags were already
ordered at half-staff because of the shooting at UNC-Charlotte.
Community Vigil for Officer Jordan Sheldon will be Wednesday, May 8 from 6:30-
8:30pm at Mooresville Town Hall.
Community meeting regarding Thyroid Cancer and Coal Ash will be Thursday,
May 9, 2019 starting at 6pm at South Iredell High School.
The budget message will be presented at the 7pm meeting.
Budget work sessions are May 9, 11am – 3pm, May 13, 8am – 12pm, and May 14,
12 – 5pm (if needed).
Chairman Mallory expressed appreciation to staff for linking strategic goals to their
budgets and for making some difficult decisions through the budget process.
CLOSED SESSIONS
Chairman Mallory said a Closed Session relating to Economic Development G.S. 143-
318.11 (a) (4).
MOTION by Commissioner McNeely to call for a Public Hearing on June 4, 2019 at 7pm
regarding a maximum economic development incentive of $461,000 over a five-year period for
Project Maple based on $24,950,000 investment in Iredell County.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
MOTION by Commissioner McNeely to call for a Public Hearing on June 4, 2019 at 7pm
regarding a maximum economic development incentive of $371,000 over a five-year period for
Project Trigger based on $19.1 million investment in Iredell County.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
The Board went into Closed Session relating to Economic Development G.S. 143-318.11
(a) (4) at 8:27PM.
The Board returned to open session at 9:46PM.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Commissioner Norman to adjourn at 9:48PM. The next regular meeting will
be Tuesday, May 21, 2019, 5:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Government Center,
200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
VOTING: Ayes – 4; Nays – 0
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Date Approved Amy B. Anderson, Clerk