HomeMy WebLinkAbout9-20-2016
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September 20, 2016
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PRE-AGENDA MINUTES
September 20, 2016
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in pre-agenda session on Tuesday,
September 20, 2016 at 5:30 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (South Wing
Conference Room), 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chairman James B. Mallory III
Vice Chairman Marvin Norman
Tommy Bowles
Steve Johnson
Ken Robertson
Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County
Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan G. Robertson, Attorney Lisa Valdez, and Clerk to
the Board Retha Gaither.
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman James Mallory called the meeting to order.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA: County Manager Ron Smith said there two
adjustments from the staff:
Add: Presentations of Special Recognitions and Awards – Item V.3 Presentation from the
North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) to Steve Johnson
Add: Closed Session – Attorney Client G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (3)
PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS
Resolutions for Lake Norman Volunteer Fire and Rescue and Mount Mourne
Volunteer Fire Department Regarding the ISO Ratings: Fire Safety and Emergency
Management Director Kent Greene stated that ISO is the Insurance Services Offices, a for-profit
company that collects data from fire departments and other entities to sell back to insurance
companies. From that information, insurance companies use the data to set premiums for fire
insurance rates. For a fire department, it is a very labor intensive process. ISO reviews everything
such as apparatus, staffing, performance, training records, fire prevention, life safety education,
communication center, etc. Scores are 0 to 100 which relates to the rating. The higher the score
the lower the rating which is determined by the Department of Insurance and the Office of the
State Fire Marshal in North Carolina. The lower rating means lower fire insurance premiums which
is more pertinent for commercial properties than residential. The Board of Commissioners resolved
a few years ago to adopt a service level of 6 or better throughout the county. Every department
achieved that except Mt. Mourne. They had a 7 because they hadn’t been rated in the last ten to
twelve years. Mt. Mourne went from a 7/9 to a 4/9. Lake Norman went from a 6/9 to 4/9. The
commercial properties will see improvements in their fire insurance premiums around January 1.
Commissioner Bowles asked to clarify that properties closer to the fire hydrants are rated
at 4 and the outer lying areas are still 9.
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September 20, 2016
Greene said yes. However, several years North Carolina allowed departments to extend
from a five mile travel to a six mile district. Properties within five miles of the station received a
lower rating and anything between five and six miles received the higher rating. There are v ery
few of those areas within Mt. Mourne’s district except to the extreme south. Lake Norman has
more of those properties along the lake which came into play for their ladder credit. In Mt. Mourne
most of the large multi-story structures are close to the fire station so they received full credit for
their ladder. However, for Lake Norman, most of their large structures are on the water so they did
not receive full credit. The large structures must be within 2 ½ miles of the fire station.
Commissioner Bowles asked if property lying outside the six miles is considered unrated.
Greene said it is considered unprotected or Class 10 which would make the fire insurance
very expensive if it can be obtained at all. There are very few such properties in Iredell County.
There are some between Harmony and Union Grove in what is known as no-man’s land but with
very few structures.
Commissioner Bowles asked if there was anything around the lake that falls into that
category.
Greene said no.
Chairman Mallory asked about the highest and lowest ratings in Iredell County.
Greene said the highest rating is a 3 for the City of Mooresville. The highest rating within
the volunteer departments are 4s that were just achieved. The contracted departments such as Lone
Hickory, County Line, and Wilkes Iredell have ratings of 9. Sheffield-Calahaln has a 5/9 split
rating.
Commissioner Bowles asked the cost to maintain the ratings.
Greene said that changes. There is a new rating schedule and there have been significant
discussions on the importance of the ISO rating along with the impact on insurance rates.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Project Amendment for Cool Spring Elementary School Construction Project:
Finance Director Susan Robertson said Iredell-Statesville Schools System is finishing the Cool
Spring Elementary School project. The Committee of a Whole has approved the transfer of funds
between line items but the total project amount has not been exceeded. It is required to be reported
to the Board of Commissioners.
This item was placed on the Consent Agenda.
* * * * *
Iredell County, North Carolina
Amended Capital Project Ordinance
Cool Spring Elementary School
Be it Ordained by the Board of County Commissioners of Iredell County, North
Carolina:
6/21/2016 9/20/2016
Original Amended
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September 20, 2016
Section 1. Funds for this Capital Project Fund will be provided from
the following sources: Ordinance Amendment Ordinance
Qualified School Construction Bond $12,700,000 $12,700,000
General Obligation Bond 800,000 800,000
Premium on Bonds 75,900 75,900
Interest on Financing Proceeds 5,000 5,000
Sales Tax Refunds 14,300 14,300
Iredell-Statesville Schools -
$13,595,200 $13,595,200
Section 2. The following costs for school projects shall be paid by this fund:
Professional Fees - Architect, Management $ 449,100 $ 449,100
Other Fiscal Costs 76,000 76,000
Testing, Permits, and Other Fees 50,000 50,000
Closing Costs 90,035 90,035
Right of Way Acquisition 250,000 (50,000) 200,000
General Construction
Contract
10,415,000
Unencumbered
- 10,415,000 940,062 11,355,062
Water Line Improvements 500,000 (80,000) 420,000
Transitional Costs (mobiles) 550,000 550,000
Contingency 815,065 (810,062) 5,003
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment 400,000 400,000
$13,595,200 $ - $13,595,200
Section 3. This Capital Project Fund shall continue until the projects are complete.
Section 4. Transfers between line items shall only be made upon formal action by the Iredell-Statesville Board of
Education and such action shall be reported to the Iredell County Board of Commissioners at its next
regularly scheduled meeting.
Section 5. Payments from this Capital Project Fund shall be authorized by the County Manager or his designee.
This Capital Project Ordinance effective upon adoption this the 20th day of September, 2016.
* * * * *
Finance Director Robertson said the GO Bonds were sold for the improvements to North
and South Iredell High Schools. Bonds were issued in the Par Amount of $17,605,000 with a
premium of $1,552,000 that provides total funding of $19,157,000. After closing costs it will
provide the $19 million for those projects. There were 13 bidders on the bonds. JP Morgan
Securities was the low bidder with a true interest cost of 2.196% and all-in true interest costs which
include all closing costs of 2.268%.
Commissioner Robertson asked the anticipated interest rate when first working on the
budget.
Finance Director Robertson said she used 5% in budget calculations.
Chairman Mallory asked the dollar difference.
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September 20, 2016
Finance Director Robertson did not have that information but will get it for the Board. If
the County had a Triple A from all three agencies there would have been a larger impact on the
reduction of interest costs. Fitch gave a Triple A, S&P gave AA+, and Moody’s gave AA1 which
is probably 2-5 bases points difference because of the Triple A.
Commissioner Bowles asked if the other agencies will look more favorably next year.
Finance Director Robertson said they might. Every time the County issues debt it must be
rated. The next deal will be $12 million for Mitchel Community College and those bonds will be
rated. Some discussions lead to being cautiously optimistic that the County will meet the criteria
for S&P and/or Moody’s within the next year.
Commissioner Bowles asked if there was any one particular item that helped to achieve the
Triple A.
Finance Director Robertson believes there were very pleased with the policies the Board
has set to help accumulate funds and to respond to economic downturns. The stability, philosophy,
and economic growth have made a difference as well.
Smith stated the agencies seem to be impressed that the two large projects (jail and public
safety complex) are pay/go and the County is not borrowing.
Request Approval and Award of the Final High Bid Offer for the Purchase of 1370
Scotts Creek Road: Contracts and Purchasing Manager Dean Lail said the Board approved the
process for the upset bid on April 19, 2016. The initial high bid was $110,000 which was upset
twice with a final high bid of $130,000. The final bid was advertised and no other bids were
received so the process was closed. The high bid meets the requirements of the resolution and the
bid process. The bid deposit is on file. Staff requests approval of the bid and authorization to move
forward. Staff request authorization for the County Manager to sign the sales documents and
handle the closing paperwork.
This item was placed on the consent agenda.
Request of a Revised Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Troutman Concerning
Troutman Town Park: Parks/Rec Director Michelle Hepler asked for approval of the revised
interlocal agreement between Iredell County and the Town of Troutman to provide grass mowing
and grounds maintenance for Troutman ESC Park and in-turn provide the County with additional
playing space for recreational programs. The original agreement was approved in 2011 with a
revision in 2014 and very minimal changes with this revision. It is the intention of Parks/Rec to
review this agreement annually for potential changes.
This item was placed on the consent agenda.
Request Approval to Execute the Withdrawal of Street Dedication of “C” Street:
Project Manager David Saleeby said C Street is actually a paper street that was recorded 15 years
ago by the developer but was never opened or improved. The removal of C Street will make the
entire 16 acres whole.
This item was placed on the consent agenda.
Request Approval of August Refunds and Releases: County Manager Ron Smith said
everything was in order.
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September 20, 2016
This item was placed on the consent agenda.
Releases for the month of August 2016 Monthly Total $ 87,654.05
Breakdown of Releases:
County $ 47,018.88
Solid Waste Fees $ 182.00
Statesville Solid Waste Fees $ 5,400.00
Mooresville Solid Waste Fees $ 60.00
Davidson Solid Waste Fees $ -
E. Alex. Co. Fire #1 $ -
Shepherd's Fire #2 $ 105.91
Mt. Mourne Fire #3 $ 96.25
All County Fire #4 $ 1,467.39
B&F Fire #5 $ 272.33
Statesville City $ 18,067.69
Statesville Downtown $ -
Mooresville City $ 11,696.68
Mooresville Downtown $ -
Mooresville School $ 1,660.89
Love Valley $ -
Harmony $ -
Troutman $ 712.10
Davidson $ 913.93
Refunds for the month of August 2016 Monthly Total $0.00
Breakdown of Refunds:
County $ -
Solid Waste Fees $ -
Statesville Solid Waste Fees $ -
Mooresville Solid Waste Fees $ -
Davidson Solid Waste Fees $ -
E. Alex. Co. Fire #1 $ -
Shepherd's Fire #2 $ -
Mt. Mourne Fire #3 $ -
All County Fire #4 $ -
B&F Fire #5 $ -
Statesville City $ -
Statesville Downtown $ -
Mooresville City $ -
Mooresville Downtown $ -
Mooresville School $ -
Love Valley $ -
Harmony $ -
Troutman $ -
Davidson $ -
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September 20, 2016
NC Vehicle Tax System Refunds
August 2016
Breakdown of NCVTS Refunds:
County $ (575.02)
E. Alex. Co. Fire #1 $ -
Shepherd's Fire #2 $ (1.24)
Mt. Mourne Fire #3 $ 26.83
All County Fire #4 $ 2.06
B&F Fire #5 $ (2.05)
Statesville City $ 34.21
Statesville Downtown $ -
Mooresville City $ (958.18)
Mooresville Downtown $ -
Mooresville School $ (288.41)
Love Valley $ -
Harmony $ (1.74)
Troutman $ -
Davidson $ -
Monthly Total $ (1,763.54)
Request Approval of the Minutes from September 6 and July 26, 2016: There were
two corrections in the minutes, which will be made before printing in the permanent book.
This item was placed on the consent agenda.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NC 150 Widening Project: Planning Director Matthew Todd said Highway 150 is
scheduled for a widening project. The right-of-way acquisitions will begin in 2017 with
construction and bids beginning in 2019. It is an extremely large scale project. NC DOT had a
meeting in Mooresville to go over the material. Essentially, DOT wants to minimize left hand turns
which means there will be multi U-turns. However, DOT feels this is the only type of road that
will meet the needs of the current and future traffic counts. The closest similar project is in
Cabarrus County. Some concerns include decreases in drive way cuts for businesses along
Highway 150.
Commissioner Bowles said calls have begun from local businesses expressing concerns of
lost business because of no left turns.
Todd said the initial plan of a diverging diamond has been scrapped because it will not
handle the traffic. U-turns are throughout the project and they are designed large enough for
tractor/trailer use. Some are signalized.
Greene expressed concerns about access issues with emergency responses.
Commissioner Robertson asked if this project was a “done-deal.”
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September 20, 2016
Todd said the concept is done but the placement of some U-turns may not be set.
Commissioner Bowles said inconvenience to residents and shoppers is one thing but
prolonging an emergency response time is critical. He asked if there could be so me type of soft
medium that could actually be driven over.
Todd said he has inquired but has not received an answer yet.
Commissioner Johnson asked if any consideration has been given to the amount of
potential lost tax base. One particular business has two locations with a combined tax base of $6
million.
Chairman Mallory said there needs to be more signalized intersections. The highest tax
base is clustered close to the interstate and there needs to be more access for both economic and
practical perspectives.
Commissioner Johnson said the congestion starts where the sewer line starts. Maybe there
should be one set of standards for limited access where there are utilities. The traffic begins at the
apartments on 150 with Mooresville utilities. Then another set of standards 4-5 miles out on 150.
There have been several calls from business owners along Highway 150.
Chairman Mallory instructed staff to craft a resolution, circulate to members of the Board
and send to DOT by September 23.
Legislative Goals for NCACC: County Manager Ron Smith reported a conversation with
Steve Moony and Brady Johnson. Neither of them sent anything in writing, however, they would
like to have more local control of the calendar and/or the school calendar to follow colleges and
universities. One issue with the calendar is that high school students take Christmas break between
the semester and the exam versus the college calendar with exams prior to their break.
Chairman Mallory said dual enrollment is an issue as well. He suggested incorporating this
with the other items previously mentioned.
Commissioner Robertson said there are too many regulations. There should be some relief
if the charter schools have freedom of movement and the public schools are choked with
regulations. The school system needs to specifically identify those mandates.
The Board recessed into Closed Session at 6:20 PM.
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MINUTES
September 20, 2016
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September
20, 2016 at 7:00 PM, in the Iredell County Government Center (Commissioners’ Meeting Room),
200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chairman James B. Mallory III
Vice Chairman Marvin Norman
Tommy Bowles
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September 20, 2016
Steve Johnson
Ken Robertson
Staff present: County Manager Ron Smith, County Attorney Bill Pope, Deputy County
Manager Beth Jones, Finance Director Susan G. Robertson, Attorney Lisa Valdez, and Clerk to
the Board Retha Gaither.
CALL TO ORDER by Chairman Mallory.
INVOCATION: Chairman James Mallory asked everyone to bow their heads for a
moment of silence.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE led by James Mallory.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA
County Manager Ron Smith said there are two adjustments from the staff:
Add: Presentations of Special Recognitions and Awards – Item V.3 Presentation from the
North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) to Steve Johnson
Add: Closed Session – Attorney Client G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (3)
MOTION by Vice Chairman Norman to adopt the agenda as adjusted.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS
Resolution for Lake Norman Volunteer Fire and Rescue Regarding the ISO Rating:
Fire Safety and Emergency Management Director Kent Greene stated the ISO rating system is a
system used by insurance companies to evaluate fire premiums for insurance. The fire departments
are evaluated by the office of the North Carolina State Fire Marshal. This is a rigorous evaluation
involving staffing, equipment, training, fire prevention, communications, etc. This occurs about
every 10-12 years. During that time fire departments have a chance to make improvements and
lower their score. The scores range from 1, the best obtainable score, to a 10, which is basically an
unprotected area. Iredell County has a very small area in the northern end which has a 10 rating
but this area has very few populated parcels. Lake Norman and Mt. Mourne recently underwent
their evaluation which resulted in improved ratings. This translates to a modest savings for
commercial and residential properties.
Deputy Chief Kevin Clark of Lake Norman Fire Department was present to accept the
resolution and thanked the Board.
* * * * *
A RESOLUTION OF THE IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RECOGNIZING AND
HONORING THE LAKE NORMAN VOLUNTEER FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT FOR
ACHIEVING AN IMPROVED INSURANCE RATING OF CLASS 4/9.
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) helps insurance companies
across the state set their premiums by evaluating local fire departments; and
WHEREAS, OSFM ratings are based on a variety of measures having to do with almost every aspect of a
fire department, from training to apparatus to water supply; and
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September 20, 2016
WHEREAS, the availability of water alone accounts for 40 percent of the rating, making it very difficult to
areas without widespread fire hydrant systems to attain good ratings; and
WHEREAS, many residential insurance and commercial insurance companies rely upon OSFM ratings;
and
WHEREAS, OSFM uses a Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS) and a Public Protection
Classification (PPC) to analyze data collected from the system; and
WHEREAS, in the PPC system, lower is better; and
WHEREAS, lower ratings mean savings to residential and commercial property owners; and
WHEREAS, only 10 percent of fire departments rating under the PPC have achieved a Class 4 rating; and
WHEREAS, as of the last rating the Lake Norman Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department area was a
Class 6/9, and effective January 1, 2017 the PPC rating is lowered to Class 4/9;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Iredell County Board of Commissioners resolves: To recognize the hard work
and dedication of the men and women of the Lake Norman Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department and the
consistently strong support of the community in achieving this improved rating to assist in lowering ins urance costs
to property owners throughout the service area.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Iredell County Board of Commissioners this 20th day of September,
2016.
* * * * *
Resolution for Mounty Mourne Volunteer Fire Department Regarding the ISO
Rating:
A RESOLUTION OF THE IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RECOGNIZING AND
HONORING THE MOUNT MOURNE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT FOR ACHIEVING AN
IMPROVED INSURANCE RATING OF CLASS 4/9.
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) helps insurance companies
across the state set their premiums by evaluating local fire departments; and
WHEREAS, OSFM ratings are based on a variety of measures having to do with almost every aspect of a
fire department, from training to apparatus to water suppl y; and
WHEREAS, the availability of water alone accounts for 40 percent of the rating, making it very difficult to
areas without widespread fire hydrant systems to attain good ratings; and
WHEREAS, many residential and commercial insurance companies rely upon OSFM ratings; and
WHEREAS, OSFM uses a Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS) and a Public Protection
Classification (PPC) to analyze data collected from the system; and
WHEREAS, in the PPC system, lower is better; and
WHEREAS, lower ratings mean savings to residential and commercial property owners; and
WHEREAS, only 10 percent of fire departments rating under the PPC have achieved a Class 4 rating; and
WHEREAS, as of the last rating the Mount Mourne Volunteer Fire Department area was a Class 7/9, and
effective January 1, 2017 the PPC rating is lowered to Class 4/9;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Iredell County Board of Commissioners resolves: To recognize the hard work
and dedication of the men and women of the Mount Mourne Volunteer Fire Department and the consistently
strong support of the community in achieving this improved rating to assist in lowering insurance costs to property
owners throughout the service area.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Iredell County Board of Commissioners this 20th day of September,
2016.
* * * * *
MOTION by Commissioner Johnson to adopt both resolutions.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
Presentation from David Nicholson from the North Carolina Association of County
Commissioners to Commissioner Steve Johnson: David Nicholson stated that the Iredell County
Board of Commissioners have a good reputation across the state. The consistent leadership is well
known and the members of this board have served the community very well. The NCACC would
like to recognize one member in particular with a Long Time County Commissioner Service
Award. This award was presented to Commissioner Steve Johnson for 22 years of service.
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September 20, 2016
Commissioner Steve Johnson thanked the Association for the recognition and what the
Association has meant to Iredell County. Johnson stated he stayed with this Board because he
found a group of people he enjoyed working with. He thanked the board and staff. This group is
intelligent and talented but the most important thing is their character. Staff has been supportive
and shares the necessary information for this Board to make the right decisions. He stated that it
has been an honor to serve the citizens of Iredell County.
APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE BOARD
Tammy Wilcox: Request Concerning a Moratorium on Polluting Industries: Speakers
- Melissa Needer of 634 Elmwood Road, Lou Zeller of Blue Ridge Environmental Defense
League, and Tammy Wilcox of 140 Wilcox Karriker Lane in the Elmwood Community. All were
representatives of Elmwood Strong. Each spoke asking the Board to implement a moratorium to
stop polluting industries for six months. Existing regulations only allow a 50 foot set back which
is not very much. The Wilkes County ordinance requires a quarter -mile setback but they are
recommending at least 2000 feet. They also expressed concerns about polluting agriculture,
watershed and the environment in general. A moratorium would give time to rewrite the existing
ordinance which would be R56 – Mining and Quarrying; R53 – Asphalt and Concrete; R52 –
Explosives; R57 – Petroleum, Biodiesel and Related Products. They would like a new ordinance
directed at polluting industries and wants the public involved in creating it.
Commissioner Johnson asked if the Board of Commissioners could declare a moratorium
for a specific reason, for a specific period of time, to effectively remedy some existing problem
over which they have authority.
Pope said that is accurate.
Commissioner Johnson said the first thing is to determine if there is indeed a problem and
define that problem.
Pope said the Board needs to make some fact findings.
Commissioner Johnson said 50 feet is not a lot of room but not sure that particular issue is
enough to launch a full scale moratorium. He suggested two members of the Board meet with a
couple from the Elmwood Community in order to gather information and become educated about
their concerns. This group would need to learn more about what other jurisdictions have done.
This information could then be passed along to the County Manager who would ask the Planning
Director and County Attorney to address the information in an ordinance. At that time a
moratorium could be considered.
Pope said, under the circumstances, the Board has the authority to declare a moratorium
for a length of time to address specific matters. There needs to be a definition of what the
moratorium is stopping. At this moment there aren’t any applications from anyone that would be
effected.
Todd said there are no applications to date.
Chairman Mallory said there is time to go through a fact-finding process. He agrees with
Commissioner Johnson’s suggestion and asked for a motion to appoint a subcommittee of
Commissioner Johnson and Bowles to meet with representatives of Elmwood Strong within the
next week. Secondly, to request staff to determine the adequacy of the current zoning and land use
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September 20, 2016
regulations as well as the inter-play between the County regulations and any municipal regulations
in adjoining properties. Finally for the subcommittee, after meeting with Elmwood and staff, to
return with sufficiently honed findings and a recommendation to the Board as to whether a
moratorium is warranted prior to any modification of the current regulations or ordinances.
Pope said there is an ordinance called Hazardous and Radioactive Waste Ordinance which
was adopted following the incinerator fight 27 years ago. The inter-play of that ordinance along
with the land use should be considered as well.
Chairman Mallory said the adjoining municipal regulations and existing hazardous waste
and radioactive material ordinance should be included in that package. This subject should be
ready to revisit in two to four weeks at which time the Board will be in position to rule/entertain a
motion concerning a moratorium.
MOTION by Commissioner Johnson as outlined by Chairman Mallory.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing for the Consideration of an Economic Development Incentive for
Project Horsepower: Mooresville South Iredell Economic Development Representative Chris
Younger thanked the Board and they are proud to announce that Project Horsepower is Cook’s
Headers and Exhaust. They plan an additional facility to be located in Mooresville. They
manufacture custom automotive headers and exhaust systems. They supply the racing and
automotive industry and have been located in Iredell County since 2009. Their 70,000 sq. ft. and
29,000 sq. ft. facilities are located in Statesville. They currently employee 87 with wages above
the county average. Cooks plan to expand into a new 17,200 sq. ft. building in Mooresville for
approximately 30 employees with 10 being new. The new facility will house sales/marketing,
research/development, warehouse, logistics, and management. At the current location they will
add a new laser cutting machine and expand the manufacturing capacity. This project will create
10 new full time positions and generate $3.12 million in new tax investment. This project expects
to be completed by December 2016. The request is an incentive totaling $65,832 over a five year
period.
Chairman Mallory opened the public hearing.
No one from the public wished to speak.
Chairman Mallory closed the public hearing.
MOTION by Commissioner Bowles to approve this incentive of $65,832 over a five year
period based on this company’s investment of $3.12 million and this be contingent upon the
contract being executed within 180 days.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
County Manager Ron Smith summarized the consent agenda as follows:
Project amendment for Cool Spring Elementary School Construction Project to make a
transfer between line items.
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September 20, 2016
Request approval and award of the final high bid offer of $130,000 for the purchase of
1370 Scotts Creek Road.
Request approval of a revised interlocal agreement with the Town of Troutman concerning
Troutman Town Park.
Request approval to execute withdrawal of street a dedication of “C” Street. This is a paper
street located on county property on Bristol Drive.
Request approval of the August refunds and releases.
Request approval of the minutes from September 6, 2016 and July 26, 2016.
MOTION by Vice Chairman Norman to approve the consent agenda.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Partners Behavior Health Board of Directors (1 Announcement)
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD AND COMMISSIONS
(None)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NC 150 Widening Project: Planning Director Matthew Todd said the widening project is
funded and the right-of-way acquisition will begin in 2017 with construction to begin in 2019. The
entire length of Highway 150 from the west side of Mooresville will be affected. There will be a
new bridge across the lake and widening of the existing road. The theory is to move left turns away
from existing intersections which means left turns will become U-turn bulbs placed through-out
the project. It will decrease some north/south connectivity. The diverging diamond originally
talked about has changed as it would not meet the needs of the traffic. Public comment is open
until Friday, September 23 on the NCDOT website.
Chairman said the broad concerns of the Board were related to the impact on commercial
activity and businesses, particularly those close to the interstate, whose patrons would not be able
to exit the business and get back to the interstate without traveling almost 1 ½ miles down 150 to
a turn around.
Todd said that is correct.
Chairman Mallory said the second point is the response time for emergency vehicles from
the north or south would have to go in one direction and turn around. There is a time crunch to
submit comments. Staff will craft comments addressing the issues in general and delve into
specifics at a later date with NCDOT. He asked if it would be appropriate to consider/approve a
resolution to prepare those comments for circulation.
Commissioner Johnson said there needs to be some provision for the businesses along 150
that are destinations, such as the museum and gun range. Asking someone to drive a mile and a
half down the road only to turn around and come back to get to the businesses would be harmful
to their enterprise. They also need to consider how much tax base will be lost along that corridor
with the construction of this highway. There are two locations of businesses that will simply
disappear because of the construction and the tax valuation on those two parcels alone is $6
million.
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September 20, 2016
Commissioner Bowles echoed Commissioner Johnson and said a project that large makes
it hard to be sensitive to one particular business’s needs. However, when there are clusters of
businesses that could potentially shut down because people can’t make left turns deserves
consideration. It is not unreasonable to ask that there is access for emergency services without
having to drive into another county to turn around and come back to a citizen’s house. This is a
paramount problem that needs to be fixed.
Commissioner Robertson said this is a major east/west state highway that goes through an
urban area. Exit 36 is usually not thought of as urban but it is more congested than going through
most downtowns. The problem is trying to make that a thoroughfare that is unimpeded by people
getting on/off a highway that would be a bypass. Bypasses are specifically for that reason. But
building a road that makes it difficult to get in/out of a business will kill the business. Highway
150 needs a bypass but it can’t be to the south because of the lake and the bypass on the north is
Cornelius Road. The struggle is that DOT is trying to make one highway do both which won’t
work.
Chairman Mallory asked for a motion to adopt a resolution to submit comments capturing
the Board’s concerns to be drafted by the staff and circulated among the members.
MOTION by Commissioner Bowles to adopt such a resolution.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
Legislative Goals for the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners:
County Manager Ron Smith said this was discussed at the last meeting and there were three
specific goals. First – to allow flexibility in setting fees at the local level for the food and lodging
section of Environmental Health. Second – request sharing of best practices take place between
the public school system and charter/private school systems. Third – allow more flexibility on the
local level for the public school calendars to follow the college and university calendars.
Chairman Mallory asked for a motion for the staff to craft a letter to the NCACC containing
the substances of those three items for their consideration as part of their legislative goals package.
MOTION by Commissioner Johnson as Chairman Mallory stated.
VOTING: Ayes – 5, Nays – 0
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Ted Nellis of Elmwood spoke concerning the earlier subject of polluting industries. He
expressed his concerns because the property has been sold and he encouraged the Board to
implement a moratorium.
Lou Zeller with Blue Ridge spoke again to express his appreciation to the Board to set up
the committee and the Board’s willingness to research the problem that needs to be addressed. He
feels there is potential danger in waiting due to the possibility of a company seeking a permit. He
asked if there was a way to make the clear intent of the Board be part of the public record to avoid
someone trying to slip in prior to proper approval of an ordinance.
Chairman Mallory said a special or conditional use permit would have to be granted for
this type of industry. Specifically the quarry is excluded in the land use plan that carves out the
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September 20, 2016
industrial corridor that runs along Highway 70. It would have to come before the Board for
approval of such an activity. This is not likely to occur within the next two weeks.
Commissioner Robertson said that permit is a long process and would not happen quickly.
NEW BUSINESS
(None)
COUNTY MANAGER’S REPORT
County Manager Ron Smith reported:
Candy Strezinski, ECOM Director, was awarded the 2016 Communications Leader of the
Year from APCO (Association of Public Communications Officials) and NENA (National
Emergency Number Association).
EMS World is a national publication for emergency medical services. The latest issue
includes a case study that highlights Iredell County. This is a significant article dealing
with ultrasound on the ambulances.
Last week was the kickoff meeting with Bordeaux Construction and Mosely Architects for
the jail expansion. This was the first meeting that included the contractor. This will be an
excellent relationship. Bordeaux is making another level of review to the numbers and the
design that Mosely has presented. There will be a meeting in mid-October to review the
first true estimate of costs with the intent of keeping it under budget.
There was a meeting with the Hall of Justice staff and frequent users of those buildings.
David Saleeby has a communication plan which will keep parties updated as the project
moves forward.
Today was a kick off meeting with Edifice Construction, who is the contractor of the Public
Safety Building along with ADW Architects. Some schematics are being reviewed and will
be brought to this Board soon.
Chairman Mallory asked to share the results of audits of the Finance Department from the
three rating agencies that are required to rate the County’s financial status when bonds are being
issued. Bonds are incrementally being issued for school construction based on the economic
viability of continuing forward and the anticipated bond ratings improved over previous ratings.
Moody’ rating went to AA+, S&P’s rating has increased and Fitch’s rating of Iredell County went
to Triple A, which is the gold standard for bond issues. Only eleven counties in the state meet that
criteria. The result is the refinancing of existing bond packages with a savings of $10 million in
interest payments. The new bond issue, that was just bid today, was given interest rates around
2.2% which is phenomenal and will save $5 million. He expressed appreciation to the staff for the
hard work to strengthen the County’s finances.
CLOSED SESSIONS
MOTION by Commissioner Robertson to enter into Closed Session pursuant to G.S. 143-
318.11 (a) (5) for Property Acquisition and G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (4) for Economic Development.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
The Board returned to open session at 9:05 PM.
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September 20, 2016
MOTION by Commissioner Robertson to adopt the resolution authorizing the
condemnation to acquire certain property located at 249 Harrill Street, Statesville, NC.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
* * * * *
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONDEMNATION
TO ACQUIRE CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED AT 249 HARRILL STREET, STATESVILLE, NORTH
CAROLINA
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Iredell County hereby determines that it is necessary and in
the public interest to acquire certain property owned by William R. Axley for the public purpose described below;
WHEREAS, the proper officials or representatives of Iredell County have been unabl e to acquire the
needed interest in this property by negotiated conveyance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF IREDELL COUNTY,
THAT:
1. The County of Iredell shall acquire by condemnation, for the purposes stated below, the property and fee
simple interest in a certain tract described as follows:
BEGINNING AT THE JUNCTION OF STOCKTON AND HARRILL STREETS AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER; THENCE SOUTH 38 DEG. EAST WITH HARRILL STREET, 75
FEET TO A STAKE; SOUTH 52 DEG. WEST 154 FEET TO A STAKE IN SULLIVAN’S
LINE; NORTH 38 DEG. WEST WITH SULLIVAN’S LINE ABOUT 100 FEET TO A STAKE
ON STOCKTON STREET; THENCE NORTH 67 DEG. EAST WITH STOCKTON STREET
164 FEET TO THE BEGINNING CONTAINING 0.3 ACRES, MORE OR LESS; and also being
known on the tax records of Iredell County as Tax Parcel 4744077413.
2. The purpose for which the property is being condemned is for enlarging and improving the existing jail
facility and other uses incidental to the jail facility, for the benefit, use and safety of the public.
3. The necessary proceedings under NCGS § 40A-1, et. seq., as authorized by NCGS § 40A-3(b)(6) and/or
other appropriate statutory provisions and local acts to acquire the property herein described, are hereby
directed to be instituted.
Adopted this 20th day of September, 2016.
* * * * *
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Commissioner Johnson to adjourn at 9:10 PM. (The next meeting will be
Tuesday, October 4, 2016, 7:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Pre-Agenda
Discussion at 5:30 PM in the South Wing Conference Room, Government Center, 200 South
Center Street, Statesville, NC)
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Date Approved Retha C. Gaither, Clerk