HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-06-2024
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February 6, 2024
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PRE-AGENDA SESSION
February 6, 2024
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in pre-agenda session on Tuesday,
February 6, 2024, at 4:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room located in the Iredell County
Government Center 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chair Melissa Neader
Vice Chair Bert Connolly
Scottie Brown
Gene Houpe
Brad Stroud, Sr.
Staff present: County Manager Beth Mull, Deputy County Manager Susan Robertson,
County Attorney Lisa Valdez, Finance Director Deb Cheek, and Clerk to the Board Amy
Anderson.
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Neader called the meeting to order.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA: County Manager Beth Mull said there was one
clarification:
Announcement of Vacancies on Boards & Committees – 2 announcements on the Board
of Equalization and Review.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public hearing to consider a request from Owner/Applicant Lee “Bart” Abernathy,
Richard Abernathy Grading & Septic, Inc. to rezone six contiguous parcels of land
accessed off of Mt. Ulla Highway.
Chair Neader asked if there is a business operating on the property.
Planning Director Matthew Todd said there is an approved business operating on the
property.
Chair Neader asked if the applicant is expanding the business onto property he already
owns.
Todd said in 2021, the applicant requested and received a Special Use Permit for a Source
Reduction Facility. A reduction facility is burning, grinding, and chipping products on site. Todd
noted there was a Text Amendment done in 2020 to allow that type of use. In Residential
Agricultural Zoning Designation, the use was allowed with a Special Use Permit with setback
restrictions. The use was also allowed in industrial zoning designations with the same setbacks but
did not require a Special Use Permit. At that time, the applicant elected to request a Special Use
Permit within the RA zoning designation. Todd believes the applicant would like some flexibility
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February 6, 2024
on the property beyond what the Special Use Permit granted. The applicant has a large shop where
he may want to lease to another business which is not allowed under the SUP. If the property is
rezoned, the applicant will be able to continue the operation, add some flexibility, and other uses.
Chair Neader asked if the property is rezoned with the setbacks change.
Todd said the use will require the same setbacks however the applicant will not be tied to
the same site plan because it is a permitted use.
Chair Neader asked if the lots along Melody Lane are residential lots.
Todd said yes.
Commissioner Brown asked if there have been any complaints since the applicant
established the business on-site in 2021.
Todd said no one spoke at the Board of Adjustment hearing in 2021, however, three
residents shared concerns at the Planning Board meeting.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Request from Harmony Volunteer Fire Department to appoint Eddie Richardson,
Jr. and Todd Goodin to the Harmony VFD Relief Fund Board of Trustees. Kent to appoint
Eddie Richardson, Jr. and Toy J. Powers to the Harmony VFD Relief Fund Board of Trustees, as
required by North Carolina General Statute 58-84-46.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Emergency Communications for approval of change orders to the
Motorola contract and amendment to the American Rescue Plan Grant Ordinance for the
Iredell VIPER Simulcast Project Change Orders. Jamie Barrier requested approval of change
orders 2-6 to the Motorola contract and amendment to the American Rescue Plan Grant Ordinance
for the Iredell VIPER Simulcast Project Change Orders. Barrier went over the following change
orders:
#02- $27,550.00 Olin- This Tower Failed Structural Analysis, this cost will perform soil
boring/Geo report and create modification drawings to bring tower up to NC Building Code 2018
also Tower and Foundation Modification Design (stamped and sealed) with updated foundation
analysis). If the structure does not come up to speed another change is expected.
#03- $28,945.00 Barium Springs upgrade existing site shelter for Iredell VIPER Simulcast
System equipment installation. An additional change order is expected on this site for a
modification because the tower is slightly overloaded.
#04- $79,825.00 ECOM Tower install a UPS system to adequately support the new VIPER
radio system components plus new circuits from main AC panel
#05-$24,550.00 Fox Mountain upgrade existing site shelter for Iredell VIPER Simulcast
System installation.
#06- $24.550.00 Mooresville electrical site upgrade at site shelter- new circuits from UPS
system and installation of OP8 surge suppressors.
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February 6, 2024
Vice Chair Connolly asked if these scenarios were taken into consideration when the sites
were looked at.
ECOM Director Candy Miller said there was no way to know the electrical levels needed
until the project was designed. She said the department checked with Facility Services, but they
were unable to perform any of the electrical work.
Commissioner Brown said ARPA funds are funding the project.
Mull said yes and there were some funds reserved because the final cost was unknown.
Commissioner Houpe said the Board was made aware that there would be some unknowns
during the project.
Mull said the project benefits all first responders and public safety individuals in the
County by going from five radio systems to one.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Emergency Communications for approval of Budget Amendment #27
to appropriate fund balance to transfer funds from the General Fund to repay the
Emergency Telephone System Fund for ineligible expenses made according to the final PSAP
report for FY23. ECOM Director Candy Miller requested approval of Budget Amendment #27
to appropriate fund balance to transfer funds from the General Fund to repay the Emergency
Telephone System Fund for ineligible expenses made according to the final PSAP report for FY23.
Miller said PSAPs using funds for uses deemed ineligible must repay the Emergency Telephone
System Fund for the expenses. For FY23, $27,986.57 were deemed as ineligible expenses by the
North Carolina 911 Board and need to be repaid.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Emergency Communications for approval of Budget Amendment #29
to accept a Portable Radio Grant Agreement with the NC911 Board. Jamie Barrier requested
approval of Budget Amendment #29 to accept a Portable Radio Grant Agreement with the NC911
Board to purchase portable radios to be kept for use in the communications centers as backups.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Information Technology Systems for approval to purchase a new data
circuit for the Sheriff's Office located at 1714 Wilkesboro Highway. ITS Director Joey
Holshouser requested approval to purchase a new data circuit for the Sheriff's Office located at
1714 Wilkesboro Highway. Holshouser explained that with the closure of the old Monticello
location, the narcotics team will be moving into the Wilkesboro Highway location. The purchase
will include the installation of a 100Mbps circuit that will tie into the Spectrum EPLAN. The
contract is for 3 years with free installation.
This item was placed on consent.
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February 6, 2024
Request from the Town of Mooresville for approval of a resolution to transfer right
for 20/70 land in the Back Creek/Coddle Creek Public Water Supply Watershed. Planning
Director Matthew Todd said the watershed protection regulations limit the amount of built upon
impervious areas. The Back Creek/Coddle Creek Watershed has been regulated under the 10/70
rule. In 2021, the County transferred 455.41 acres to the Town of Mooresville for allotment. NC
House Bill 600 granted the ability to utilize a 20/70 rule in the Back Creek/Coddle Creek
Watershed. The Town of Mooresville has requested an additional 267.85 acres. Approximately
167.85 acres would be the build-out of the Business Park East along with an additional 100 acres
for other future development. If approved this would leave 222.95 acres for allocation in the
County’s zoning jurisdiction.
Commissioner Houpe asked if there is a threshold the County does not want to go below.
Mull said the County transferred all of its remaining acreage to the Town of Mooresville
to get them back into compliance. Once the County allocates the acreage outlined in the resolution
there is no more development in the watershed. The most important piece is transferring the
additional acreage to ensure the development of the business park. Mull noted the Town is
requesting an additional 100 acres to give them extra. This would leave the County with 222.95
acres.
Vice Chair Connolly asked what the Town has planned for the additional 100 acres.
Todd said the acreage would be limited for future commercial and industrial development
within the Town.
Commissioner Houpe said the Board has requested the Town have a specific plan when
they make these types of requests.
Mull said the Board could set aside the additional 100 acres and have the Town request
specific projects.
After a lengthy discussion, the Board agreed by consensus to table the resolution to allow
staff to bring an amended resolution allocating the 167.85 acres to complete Mooresville Business
Park East and set aside the additional 100-acre request to be requested by the Town for specific
projects.
Report of Unpaid Taxes that are liens on Real Property and set advertising date. Tax
Administrator Bill Furches reported approximately $8 million in unpaid taxes that are liens on
Real Property. Current collections total $191,500,000. Furches requested approval to set the
advertising dates as Wednesday, March 20, 2024, as the advertising date for the Mooresville
Tribune and Thursday, March 21, 2024, as the advertising date for the Statesville Record and
Landmark.
This item was placed on consent.
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February 6, 2024
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of Budget Amendment #28 to accept
a Walmart Facility Community grant in the amount of $3,500 to be used for recreation
programming. Parks & Recreation Director Tate Osborne for approval of Budget Amendment
#28 to accept a Walmart Facility Community in the amount of $3,500 to purchase picnic tables
and benches.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for a grant from Duke
Health. Parks & Recreation Tate Osborne requested approval to apply for a grant from Duke
Health in the amount of $15,000. If awarded, the funds will be used for shade at the pool area.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for the Lowes Hometowns
Grant. Parks & Recreation Tate Osborne requested approval to apply for the Lowes Hometowns
Grant. If awarded, the grant will provide labor and materials to enhance the grassy area in front of
the Recreation Center including seating areas and a water feature. The grant will include the
supplies.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for an AARP Community
Challenge Grant. Parks & Recreation Tate Osborne requested approval to apply for a grant from
an AARP Community Challenge Grant in the amount of $40,000. If awarded, the funds will
provide a vibrant area for the 55 and older population.
Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to increase Summer Camp fees. Parks
& Recreation Tate Osborne requested approval to increase Summer Camp fees by $5 per week per
child. Camp Iredell would be $155 per week and $195 for Camp Iredell Adventures. There has not
been an increase since 2021. Osborne said the increase is necessary because of the increase in fuel
and material costs, and the school calendar change to include two weeks of summer camp that was
not budgeted for.
Chair Neader asked if the department could absorb the cost without forwarding the increase
to the families. She also asked staff to ensure $4,000 would cover the costs.
The Board agreed by consensus to table the request and allow staff to look for available
revenue to cover the increase. Mull noted a budget amendment may be necessary.
Parks & Recreation Director Ryan Brill gave an update on the department’s numbers for
January.
Health & Wellness- 7,227
All programming (individual participants signing up for adult trips, STEM/Agriculture
programs, PE, crafts etc. – 272
Facility rentals- 6,138
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Total community members served for January- 13,637
The Board shared excitement for the direction that the Recreation Center is headed.
Vice Chair Connolly asked Osborne to look into football programming.
Request from Administration for approval of Departmental Strategic Goals. Strategic
All Iredell County Departments have created Strategic Goals as part of the continued growth of
our Strategic Planning process. Each of these Strategic Goals has a direct tie to at least one Board
of Commissioner-approved Strategic Objective. These goals have been reviewed by the Strategic
Planning Analyst with the departments and have been presented to, reviewed, and approved by
Administration. These goals will be used during the budget process and will drive decisions
regarding the budget.
Mull said the Board will receive an update on the Strategic Plan process during the
upcoming retreat.
This item was placed on consent.
County Construction Projects Update. A copy of the update was provided in the Board’s
packet. There were corrections or additions.
This item was placed on consent.
Request from Clerk to the Board for approval of the minutes from the meeting on
January 16, 2024. There were no corrections or additions.
This item was placed on consent.
COUNTY MANAGER’S REPORT
County Manager Beth Mull gave an update on the following:
• Board’s Winter Planning Retreat on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 9am –
2pm at Cooperative Extension. The second day is tentatively scheduled for March
18, 2024. The date was pushed back to allow time for bids for the new high school
to come in. If the bids are not back the date may shift.
• Department Directors are currently working on budgets. Budgets are due on
February 16, 2024.
• Early voting begins on Thursday, February 15, 2024. There are five different early
voting sites.
IREDELL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MINUTES
February 6, 2024
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February 6, 2024
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February
6, 2024, at 6:00 PM, in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room of the Iredell County Government
Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
Board Members Present
Chair Melissa Neader
Vice Chair Bert Connolly
Scottie Brown
Gene Houpe
Brad Stroud, Sr.
Staff present: County Manager Beth Mull, Deputy County Manager Susan Robertson,
County Attorney Lisa Valdez, and Clerk to the Board Amy Anderson.
CALL TO ORDER by Chair Neader.
INVOCATION: by Vice Chair Connolly.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: led by Chair Neader.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA: County Manager Beth Mull said there was one
clarification:
Announcement of Vacancies on Boards & Committees – 2 announcements on the Board
of Equalization and Review.
MOTION by Commissioner Stroud to approve the agenda as presented.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & RECOGNITIONS
APPOINTMENT BEFORE THE BOARD
Annexation Briefing: Planning Director Matthew Todd said staff often hears confusion
regarding the annexation laws in North Carolina. There are voluntary and involuntary annexations.
In 2012, the State legislature made changes to the involuntary process. Todd is not aware of any
jurisdiction being successful in an involuntary annexation since then. A voluntary annexation is
when a property owner submits a petition to a jurisdiction requesting annexation. The two kinds
of areas that can be annexed are contiguous or satellite. Contiguous annexations have no distance
restriction from current corporate boundaries. Cities can go up to three miles from primary
corporate limits for voluntary annexation. Statesville and Troutman and Troutman and Mooresville
have Annexation Boundary Agreements which is the only restriction on growth. Todd noted there
are no boundaries north of Statesville to voluntarily annex contiguous property. Satellite
annexations cannot exceed 10% of the primary city limits but Statesville and Troutman are exempt
from this per General Statute. Todd noted the 10% rule does apply to Mooresville.
Chair Neader asked if the three miles pertain to how a crow flies per se.
Todd said yes.
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February 6, 2024
Todd then went through the annexation process. A willing property owner petitions a
municipality the municipality will then go through its process. They have 60 days to assign an
initial zoning designation. Typically, the municipality may zone the property similar to the
County’s zoning.
Chair Neader said the Board is often asked why the County cannot stop the annexation
process.
Todd said annexations by municipalities are allowed by state statute.
Commissioner Brown asked what happens if two towns cross in the three miles.
Todd said it is important to have boundary agreements in place.
Vice Chair Connolly said a lot of people think the County controls annexations but it’s not
the case. When towns and cities annex property most of the time the density is higher allowing
more homes on the property which potentially impacts the number of students going to school and
affects the per-pupil funding. The County’s hands are tied with what the municipalities do. The
County pays $2,223 per pupil for school funding, not including capital funding. The average price
of a home in the County is $360,000 with property taxes approximately being $1,800 per year. To
break even on the cost of per pupil a house would need to be valued at $445,000. Not everyone
can afford these homes.
Vice Chair Connolly said there has been some debate about the County not giving the
school system enough money. The taxpayers are left to fill the gap left by the State. The County’s
tax rate is .50. Cabarrus County’s tax rate is .74 and fund $2,282 per pupil. Davie County’s tax
rate is .773 and fund $2,225 per pupil; Rowan County’s tax rate is .58 and fund $2,229 per pupil;
Alexander County’s tax rate is .67 and fund $1,728 per pupil.
County Manager Mull said there is some misinformation about the County being the
second lowest in the State for per-pupil funding. The County funds two public school systems and
one community college. Out of 15 surrounding counties, Iredell is seventh highest in per pupil and
third in capital funding. Iredell is a Tier 3 county and does not receive a lot of funding from the
State and Federal Government. The Board of Commissioners funds the school systems well.
Vice Chair Connolly said the County cannot control what the cities and towns do.
Commissioner Stroud said the current board has done a brake check on extra-territorial
jurisdiction requests.
Commissioner Houpe said he understands everyone’s concerns, but the County does a lot
of things right.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
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Public hearing to consider an economic development incentive for Project Zeus. Craig
Goodson presented Dehn SE for an economic development incentive. Dehn SE is a private 114-
year-old company located in Neumarkt, Germany. The company is a world leader in providing
electrical engineering in manufacturing solutions for the lightning and surge protector sector. Dehn
SE currently employs 2,300 people worldwide. The company’s location plan is two-fold. First,
they will occupy 10,000 square feet of office space in Merino Mill and will add 20,000 square feet
approximately two-to-three months later to consolidate warehousing while they build the second
location which will serve as the company’s US headquarters. In addition to assembly, production,
and warehousing the second location will feature research and development training, and electrical
engineering-type positions. The first phase will be 70,000 square feet and the complete build-out
will be 200,000 square feet. When the company completes the buildout by December 31, 2030,
they will have invested $38,560,000. This does not include the upfitting cost for Merino Mill.
Goodson requested approval of an economic development incentive to Dehn SE for up to
$912,352 over seven years based on the company’s investment of up to $38,560,000, creation of
a minimum of 120 jobs up to 238 by December 30, 2030, and contingent upon a contract being
executed within 180 days.
Chair Neader asked how many US locations the company looked at.
Goodson said the company looked country-wide and narrowed its pool down to three
states. After visiting the area on three different occasions the company decided on Iredell County.
Chair Neader opened the public hearing.
No one wished to speak.
Chair Neader closed the public hearing.
MOTION by Commissioner Stroud to approve an economic incentive up to $912,352 over
a seven-year period based on the company's investment of up to $38,560,000, creation of a
minimum of 120 jobs up to 238 by December 30, 2030, and contingent upon a contract being
executed within 180 days.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
Public hearing to consider a request from Owner/Applicant Lee “Bart” Abernathy,
Richard Abernathy Grading & Septic, Inc. to rezone six contiguous parcels of land accessed
off of Mt. Ulla Highway. Planning Director Matthew Todd presented the following rezoning
request. The applicant is requesting to rezone the property from Residential Agricultural (RA) to
Light Manufacturing (M-1). The property has an active Special Use Permit that was approved in
2021 for a source reduction facility. Todd noted in 2020, the Board of Commissioners approved a
Text Amendment to include source reduction facilities with setbacks and restrictions. The use was
allowed in RA with a Special Use Permit. The use was also allowed in industrial zoning
designations with the same requirements but did not require a Special Use Permit. Todd said if the
rezoning is approved the same use would still be allowed on the property along with the same
restrictions however it would give the applicant some flexibility. Staff supports the request and the
Planning Board unanimously recommended in favor of the request.
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February 6, 2024
Chair Neader asked for an example of the flexibility the applicant would be allowed.
Todd said if approved additional light manufacturing uses would be allowed on the
property.
Chair Neader opened the public hearing.
Bart Abernathy, the applicant, was available for questions.
William Allison, representing the applicant, said the request is substantially consistent with
the 2045 Horizon Plan and it received favorable recommendations from Planning staff and the
Planning Board. Allison said the applicant is currently tied to a site-specific plan because of the
Special Use Permit which limits his ability to shift buildings and parking. Allison explained the
M-1 zoning designation will allow the applicant to add a tenant in the proposed building. He also
noted the setbacks will remain in place; 500 feet from any adjoining residence and 300 feet from
any boundary line. Abernathy’s operation provides a needed function for southern Iredell County
and the development companies.
Chair Neader asked the applicant if he felt he had adequate property to continue the
operation for several years.
Abernathy said yes.
Chair Neader also asked if the property has a concrete entrance.
Abernathy said yes. He explained he went above and beyond to make the location very
appealing.
Chair Neader closed the public hearing.
MOTION by Commissioner Houpe to approve the zoning map amendment, and to make a
finding that said approval is consistent with the adopted 2045 Horizon Plan and is reasonable and
in the public interest because: the entirety of the site is within the 2045 Horizon Plan Employment
Center Industrial/Flex/Office designation, and is in close proximity to various existing industrial
uses.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
Iredell County
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING STAFF REPORT
REZONING CASE # 2401-1
STAFF PROJECT CONTACT: Leslie M. Meadows
EXPLANATION OF THE REQUEST
This is a request to rezone six contiguous parcels of land accessed off of Mt. Ulla Highway,
approximately 33.25 acres, from Residential Agricultural (RA) with an active Special Use
Permit (SUP) to Light Manufacturing (M-1). This is a conventional request, with no
additional agreed upon conditions presented at this time.
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OWNER/APPLICANT
OWNER/APPLICANT: Lee “Bart” Abernathy, Richard Abernathy Grading & Septic, Inc.
PROPERTY INFORMATION
ADDRESS/LOCATION: Accessed at 1239 Mt.
Ulla Highway. More specifically, PINs#:
4678074493.000, 4668979387.000,
4678072343.000, 4678070006.000,
4668953367.000, and a portion of
4678075873.000.
SURROUNDING LAND USE: West of the site,
and east across Mt. Ulla Highway, are
various existing industrially zoned properties;
under the Mooresville Municipal Planning
Area. Vacant lands directly to the south are currently owned by Duke Energy,
permitted for a future substation. Lands directly to the north and east remain residential
in nature.
SIZE: The total acreage to be rezoned includes approximately 33.25 acres.
EXISTING LAND USE: Currently active Source Reduction Facility operating under a
Special Use Permit.
ZONING HISTORY:
The property has been zoned Residential Agricultural (RA) since county-wide zoning
was originally
established in 1990. In April of 2021, applicant Bart Abernathy applied for and was
granted a Special Use Permit by the Iredell County Board of Adjustment to develop and
operate a Source Reduction Facility (processing & wholesale) in the Residential
Agricultural (RA) district. Note that if the Light Manufacturing (M-1) rezoning request is
approved, the rezoning will override the existing SUP. The use, Source Reduction
Facility, can continue and expand by right in the M-1 zoning district per the
performance requirements of Chapter 3, R67 of the Land Development Code, which
shall still apply. However, any future M-1 changes/additions for site plan review will not
need to go back before the Board of Adjustment for approval.
OTHER JURISDICTIONAL INFORMATION: The properties lie inside of the Town of
Mooresville’s Urban Service Area. Annexation and/or public utilities may be made
available by the town in the future. The Town of Mooresville has been made aware of
the request. No feedback has been received. Mooresville’s Future Character & Land
Use Plan does designate this area as Industrial into the future.
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OTHER SITE CHARACTERISTICS: These properties are located within the regulated Back
Creek Balance of Watershed Area (WS-II-BW). Proposed new development will be limited
by the 20/70 Rule (70% with water and sewer) for built-upon area (BUA). Only 12% of the
property could be built upon once development within the overall Back Creek
watershed area has reached 20% at 70% impervious. Watershed BUA calculations on the
site will be thoroughly re-evaluated at time of commercial site plan review for all new
development. There is an intermittent stream and two ponds onsite, but the properties
are not located within a flood hazard zone.
UTILITIES: This site is currently served by well and septic. However, future public utilities
may be available through the Town of Mooresville.
IMPACTS ON LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND/OR FACILITES
TRAFFIC: According to the current CRTPO Comprehensive Transportation Plan, Mt. Ulla
Highway (NC 801) is considered a major thoroughfare; an existing boulevard not in need
of improvements at this time, with no identified 2045 MTP projects in this area. The closest
and most recent NCDOT annual average daily traffic counts along Mt. Ulla Highway is
approximately 8,100 vehicles per day in 2021. The Iredell County 2021 Transportation
Master Plan does not include recommended improvements for Mt. Ulla Highway at this
time. The speed limit along this section of Mt. Ulla Highway is a transition zone between
45-55 mph.
SCHOOLS: This is a commercial rezoning and should have no implications on local
schools’ capacity.
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.
REQUIRED REVIEWS BY OTHER AGENCIES
LOCAL: An official site plan must be submitted to the Planning & Development
Department for review in order to redesign or further develop the property. 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: The applicant and landowner, Bart Abernathy, will combine these
parcels for continued operation of his source reduction facility. His desire is to reconfigure
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February 6, 2024
his current SUP site plan; constructing a multi-use shop building to house office and
storage space for various commercial tenants. The properties are situated between two
significant Mooresville Business Parks, accessed off Mooresville Blvd. and Manufactures
Blvd. A Light Manufacturing rezoning will take precedent over the applicant’s existing
Special Use Permit, and allow changes to the site plan without Board of Adjustment
approval. However, it is noted this is straight/conventional request, with no additional
agreed upon conditions at this time. All permitted M-1 uses would be allowed into the
future.
The majority of site adjoins an existing industrial business park, per Town of Mooresville’s
jurisdiction, and the entirety of the request is consistent with the 2045 Horizon Plan
Employment Center – Industrial/Flex/Office designation. Employment Center –
Industrial/Flex/Office areas are intended for development of industrial, flex space, and
office uses including light manufacturing and assembly, research and development,
warehousing, and building trade showrooms and offices. These lands are either currently
served or are planned to be served in the future by public or private water or sanitary
sewer systems. These areas should have access to planned arterial or collector streets to
provide adequate infrastructure for transportation of goods to and from distribution
centers. Development should provide adequate transitions to adjacent lower intensity
uses, such as residential and commercial uses, in the form of vegetated buffers,
landscaping, setbacks, and building heights.
The Planning staff can support the proposed rezoning request, based on the following:
the entirety of the site is within the 2045 Horizon Plan Employment Center -
Industrial/Flex/Office designation and is in close proximity to various existing industrial
uses.
SITE REVIEW COMMITTEE: Staff performed a site visit on December 15, 2023, to post
property and take photo documentation.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION: On January 3, 2024, the Planning Board held a public
meeting to consider the rezoning request. The applicant was present for questioning.
Several surrounding landowners were in attendance, three of which spoke in opposition.
Primarily, their concerns included some of the already approved activity associated with
the property including clearing, noise, smoke and the future development potential of
the site. The board voted unanimously, 9-0, to recommend approval of the rezoning
request.
Public Hearing on a trust agreement to be entered into by the County in an aggregate
principal amount not to exceed $40,000,000. Finance Director Deb Cheek said at the January 2,
2024, meeting, the Board approved a resolution regarding the 2024 Limited Obligation Bonds, not
to exceed $40 million, for the new Weathers Creek High School located in Troutman, NC.
Tonight’s public hearing is to consider public comment.
Chair Neader announced that this was the hour and day of the public hearing on a
trust agreement or similar financing agreement (the “Agreement”) to be entered into by the County
of Iredell, North Carolina (the “County”) pursuant to Section 160A-20 of the General Statutes of
North Carolina in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $40,000,000 for the purpose of
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February 6, 2024
providing funds, together with any other available funds, to pay the costs of constructing and
equipping a new high school to be located in Troutman, North Carolina to be known as Weathers
Creek High School, which will be leased to the Iredell-Statesville Board of Education for operation
(the “Project”).
If the County enters into the Agreement, it will secure its obligations thereunder by
executing and delivering a deed of trust granting a lien on all or a portion of the site of the Project,
together with any improvements or fixtures located or to be located thereon.
In connection with the proposed plan of finance, the County will acquire all or a
portion of the site of the Project and will lease such site to the Iredell-Statesville Board of
Education to be used for school purposes. Such lease will be subordinate to the lien created by the
deed of trust.
Section 160A-20(g) of the General Statutes of North Carolina requires that the
County hold a public hearing prior to entering into the Agreement. Section 153A-158.1 of the
General Statutes of North Carolina require that the County hold a public hearing relating to the
proposed acquisition of all or a portion of the site of the Project by the County to be used for school
purposes.
The Chair acknowledged due publication of the notice of public hearing in a
newspaper with a general circulation in said County and directed the Clerk to the Board of
Commissioners to attach the affidavit showing publication in said newspaper on a date at least ten
(10) days prior to the date hereof as Exhibit A.
The Chair then announced that the Board of Commissioners would immediately
hear anyone who might wish to be heard on the proposed Agreement or the proposed acquisition
of all or a portion of the site of the Project by the County as described above.
A list of all persons making comments and a summary of such comments are
attached as Exhibit B.
Chair Neader opened the public hearing.
No one wished to speak.
Chair Neader closed the public hearing.
All statements and comments by participants of the public hearing were duly
considered by the Board of Commissioners.
MOTION by Commissioner Brown to approve the resolution as presented.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
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February 6, 2024
• Request from Harmony Volunteer Fire Department to appoint Eddie Richardson, Jr. and
Todd Goodin to the Harmony VFD Relief Fund Board of Trustees.
• Request from Emergency Communications for approval of change orders to the Motorola
contract and amendment to the American Rescue Plan Grant Ordinance for the Iredell
VIPER Simulcast Project Change Orders.
• Request from Emergency Communications for approval of Budget Amendment #27 to
appropriate fund balance to transfer funds from the General Fund to repay the Emergency
Telephone System Fund for ineligible expenses made according to the final PSAP report
for FY23.
• Request from Emergency Communications for approval of Budget Amendment #29 to
accept a Portable Radio Grant Agreement with the NC911 Board.
• Request from Information Technology Systems for approval to purchase a new data circuit
for the Sheriff's Office located at 1714 Wilkesboro Highway.
• Report of Unpaid Taxes that are liens on Real Property and set advertising date.
• Request from Parks & Recreation for approval of Budget Amendment #28 to accept a
Walmart Facility Community grant in the amount of $3,500 to be used for recreation
programming.
• Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for a grant from Duke Health.
• Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for the Lowes Hometowns Grant.
• Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to apply for an AARP Community
Challenge Grant.
• Request from Administration for approval of Departmental Strategic Goals.
• County Construction Projects Update.
• Request from Clerk to the Board for approval of the minutes from the meeting on January
16, 2024.
MOTION by Commissioner Houpe to approve the consent agenda.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
The following items were removed from the consent agenda:
• Request from the Town of Mooresville for approval of a resolution to transfer right for
20/70 land in the Back Creek/Coddle Creek Public Water Supply Watershed. After a
lengthy discussion, the Board agreed by consensus to table the resolution to allow staff to
bring an amended resolution allocating the 167.85 acres to complete Mooresville Business
Park East and set aside the additional 100-acre request to be requested by the Town for
specific projects.
• Request from Parks & Recreation for approval to increase Summer Camp fees. The Board
agreed by consensus to table the request and allow staff to look for available revenue to
cover the increase.
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February 6, 2024
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES OCCURRING ON BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Board of Equalization & Review - 2 announcements
Juvenile Crime Prevention Council - 1 announcement
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Juvenile Crime Prevention Council - 1 appointment
Nakayla Griffin has volunteered to serve for the first time as the Statesville Police
Department professional. According to JCPC bi-laws, qualified persons must fulfill certain
positions on the Council. Although the council prefers Board approval, it is not required.
MOTION by Commissioner Houpe to appoint Nakayla Griffin to serve on the JCPC.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
Recreation Advisory Board - 1 appointment
Priscilla Holmes has volunteered to serve for the first time.
MOTION by Commissioner Brown to appoint Priscilla Holmes to serve on the Recreation
Advisory Board.
VOTING: Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(None)
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
(None)
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS & UPDATES
Commissioner Brown shared his excitement of Parks & Recreation. The department
continues to do great things and provide unique opportunities for all ages. He is hopeful the
department will continue to do well, and the County will be able to set aside more funds for the
Fairgrounds.
Commissioner Stroud shared that Mrs. Kay Webster passed away yesterday, February 5,
2024. Mrs. Webster shared her love through baking, specifically providing cakes for the Employee
and Retiree Luncheons. The Board expressed its sympathy to the Webster family.
Chair Neader shared her appreciation of being involved in and making connections with
the community. She recognized a Boy Scout in attendance. She also shared an update on a recent
meeting with a representative from Thom Tillis’ office.
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February 6, 2024
Chair Neader and Commissioner Stroud shared an update on being able to recognize a 91-
year-old Korean War Veteran.
Vice Chair Connolly said it is sad that the County has to put $40 million on top of the
voter-approved $80 million. The new high school project will be the most expensive single capital
project in the County’s history. Connolly said the bond for Selma Burke Middle School was
approved by the voters at the same time as the high school, however, Selma Burke is now open.
Commissioner Houpe expressed appreciation for county employees. He asked citizens to
continue praying for the Country.
NEW BUSINESS
(None)
COUNTY MANAGER’S REPORT
County Manager Beth Mull gave an update on the following:
• Board’s Winter Planning Retreat on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 9am –
2pm at Cooperative Extension. The second day is tentatively scheduled for March
18, 2024. The date was pushed back to allow time for bids for the new high school
to come in. If the bids are not back the date may shift.
• Department Directors are currently working on budgets. Budgets are due on
February 16, 2024.
• Early voting begins on Thursday, February 15, 2024. There are five different early
voting sites.
CLOSED SESSION
The Board held a Closed Session before the 6pm meeting and there were no action items
to report.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Commissioner Houpe to recess at 7:02pm until Wednesday, February 14,
2024, at 9am for the Winter Planning Retreat at the Cooperative Extension. The next regular
meeting is Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 6pm in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room,
Government Center, 200 South Center Street, Statesville, NC.
VOTING Ayes – 5; Nays – 0
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Date Approved Amy B. Anderson, Clerk