bertie county board of commissionersbertiecounty.nc.gov/commissioners/meetings/2020/packets/...1 day...

Bertie County

Board of Commissioners

September 8, 2020

6:00 PM

Chair Ronald “Ron” Wesson District I

Greg Atkins District II

Vice Chair Tammy A. Lee District III

John Trent District IV

Ernestine (Byrd) Bazemore District V

1

Bertie County is now utilizing Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zoom is available to the public to participate during this meeting.

To call in to our meeting on the phone, use the following information:

Phone #: 1-301-715-8592

Meeting ID: 723 391 6141

To listen to our meeting online, click or copy and paste this link into your browser:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7233916141

Questions? Call Clerk to the Board, Sarah Tinkham, at 794-6110.

2

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7233916141

BERTIE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

September 8, 2020

Meeting Agenda

This agenda is only a tentative schedule of matters the Commissioners may address at their meeting and all items found

on it may be deleted, amended or deferred. The Commissioners may also, in their absolute discretion, consider matters

not shown on this agenda.

6:00 Call to Order and Welcome by Chairman Wesson, Commissioners Room, Windsor

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Bazemore

Public Comments (3-minute time limit per speaker)

(A)

*** REPORTS AND APPOINTMENTS ***

(1) Introduction: Caroline Stephenson of Cultivator Bookmobile – children’s book initiative, and recent Bertie event

(2) Tropical Storm Isaias/Morning Road Tornado Recovery Updates by Emergency Services Director, Mitch Cooper

(3) Fire Study Review, Envirosafe

Board Appointments (B)

1. CPTA Board

2. VCOM Board

3. Rivers East WDB

Consent Agenda (C)

1. Approve Minutes for

Regular Meeting 7-13-20

2. Approve Minutes for Closed

Session 7-13-20

3. Approve Minutes for

Emergency Meeting 7-23-20

4. Approve Minutes for Work

Session 8-10-20

5. Approve Minutes for Closed

Session 8-10-20

6. Register of Deeds Fees

Report – July and August

2020

7. Budget Amendments

8. Approve 2021 Commissioners

meeting schedule + 2021

local/state holiday schedule as

previously discussed on August

10th and July 13th

9. 2019-2020 settlement

statements, and the 2020-2021

Charge of the Tax Levy

10. Tax Release Journal

***OTHER ITEMS***

Discussion Agenda (D)

1. Invoice for Disaster Recovery

Coordinator, Mid-East

Commission

2. 2020 Fall/Winter Surplus

Property Auction – overall

logistics, Legal support, and

resolutions for real and personal

property

3. Alternative suggestions for the

2020 Employee Appreciation

Luncheon, yearly Service

Awards

4. Census update by County

CENSUS Liaison, Traci White,

Planning & Inspections

Director

Commissioners’ Reports (E)

County Manager’s Reports (F)

County Attorney’s Reports (G)

Public Comments Continued

Closed Session

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 143-318.11(a)(6) to consider the

qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness,

conditions of employment, or conditions of initial employment

of an individual public officer or employee or prospective

public officer or employee; or to hear or investigate a

complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an individual

public officer or employee.

Adjourn

3

ITEM ABSTRACT

MEETING DATE: September 8, 2020

SECTION: Appointments & Reports (A-1 to A-4)

DEPARTMENT: Governing Body

TOPICS:

(1) Special presentation by Bertie County DSS Board – recognition of former Board

member, Commissioner Bazemore

(2) Introduction: Caroline Stephenson of Cultivator Bookmobile – children’s book

initiatives, and recent Bertie event

(3) Tropical Storm Isaias/Morning Road Tornado Recovery Updates by Emergency

Services Director, Mitch Cooper

(4) Fire Study Review, Envirosafe

COUNTY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION OR COMMENTS: --

SUMMARY OF AGENDA ITEM AND/OR NEEDED ACTION(S): --

ATTACHMENTS: Yes

LEGAL REVIEW PENDING: N/A

ITEM HISTORY: ---


4

CULTIVATOR,INC.QUICKFACTS

• A501C-3publiccharityfoundedin2016inMurfreesboro• Missionistocreategreaterbook&foodaccessinNortheasternNC• Operatedtheonlybookstoreinanhour’sdriveinalldirectionsfromAugust

2016-April2020.ClosedCultivatorbookstoreduetoCovid-19• BecameCultivatorBookmobileinMay2020• Sincebeingfoundedin2016,havegivenawaythousandsofbooksinNENCto

schools,colleges,universities,churches,daycares,andinthecommunity• AllthebooksgivenawayaredonatedtoCultivator• Operate6LittleFreeLibrariesinHertfordCounty

o TwoinMurfreesboroo TwoinAhoskieo OneinWintono OneinHarrellsville

• Operatesolelyongrantsanddonations• Haveanall-volunteerstaff,nopaidemployees• OrganizeweeklyfooddistributioninMurfreesborowiththeFoodBankof

Albemarle• InprocessofbecomingamobilefoodpantrywithFoodBandofAlbemarle• ProduceshortdocumentaryvideoseriesaboutaMurfreesboroAfrican

Americanfarmer&hisdaughtersinceMayof2020• HeldMurfreesboroBlackHistoryWalkingTourin2018• RaisedmoneytoplacehistoricmarkeratRuffinBrother’sGroceryin2019• StartingteenonlineliterarymagazineinAugust2020• Donationscanbemadeathttps://cultivatornc.square.site/ • Alldonationsaretaxdeductible• Corporate/businessBookmobilesponsorshipsstartat$100• Thankyouforsupportingliteracyandfoodaccessinyourcommunity

301EastBroadStreet,Murfreesboro,NC27855(252)395-2327//[email protected]

5

ITEM ABSTRACT


SECTION: Board Appointments


TOPICS:

1. CPTA Board

2. VCOM Board

3. Rivers East WDB

COUNTY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION OR COMMENTS: Discussion and

appointments needed.

SUMMARY OF AGENDA ITEM AND/OR NEEDED ACTION(S): Discussion and

appointments needed.

ATTACHMENTS: Yes


ITEM HISTORY: ---


6

CPTA Board

Immediate Vacancies: 1

Position Vacancy:

Board Term Name Began End

CPTA Board

2 years Lewis C. Hoggard, III 7/2/18 7/2/2020

Special requirements: N/A

Notes: Application for reappointment has been received by the above member.

Attendance of Current Members: N/A

Applications Received:

1 – Lewis C. Hoggard, III (reappointment)

Current Members (unexpired):

1. --

7

Vidant Bertie Director’s Council


Position Vacancy:


Vidant Bertie Director’s Council -- Jon Powell -- --


Notes:



1 –


1. -

11

Rivers East Workforce Development Board


Position Vacancy:


Rivers East Workforce Development

Board

2 years Ron Roberson -- --


Notes: Application is forthcoming; conditional reappointment is being requested.



1 –


1. -

16

ITEM ABSTRACT


SECTION: Consent (C-1 to C-11)


TOPICS:

1. Approve Minutes for Regular Meeting 7-13-20

2. Approve Minutes for Closed Session 7-13-20

3. Approve Minutes for Emergency Meeting 7-23-20


5. Approve Minutes for Work Session 8-10-20


7. Register of Deeds Fees Report – July and August 2020

8. Budget Amendments

9. Approve 2021 Commissioners meeting schedule + 2021 local/state holiday

schedule as previously discussed on August 10 th and July 13th

10. 2019-2020 settlement statements, and the 2020-2021 Charge of the Tax Levy

11. Tax Release Journal


19

COUNTY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION OR COMMENTS: Recommend approval.

SUMMARY OF AGENDA ITEM AND/OR NEEDED ACTION(S): Recommend approval.

ATTACHMENTS: Yes, see each particular agenda item.


ITEM HISTORY: ---

20

C-1

21

1

Windsor, North Carolina

July 13, 2020

REGULAR MEETING

The Bertie County Board of Commissioners met for a regularly scheduled meeting today inside

the Commissioners Room, 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic,

this meeting was hosted partially in person, and partially via Zoom (conference call). The

following members were present or absent:

Present: Ronald “Ron” Wesson, District I

Greg Atkins, District II

Tammy A. Lee, District III

John Trent, District IV

Ernestine (Byrd) Bazemore, District V

Absent: None

Staff Present: County Manager Juan Vaughan, II.

Finance Director William Roberson

County Attorney Lloyd Smith

Staff Present (Zoom): Clerk to the Board Sarah Tinkham

Maintenance Superintendent Anthony Rascoe

Water Superintendent Ricky Spivey

EFNEP Agent Kathy Copeland

Elections Director Sheila Holloman

Planning & Inspections Director Traci White

Water Superintendent Ricky Spivey

Cal Bryant of the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald were present from the media via Zoom.

22

2

INVOCATION/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Commissioner Bazemore gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

APPOINTMENTS & REPORTS

USDA Grant Award announcement and requirements by Stephanie Hardison, Area

Specialist, USDA

Ms. Hardison of USDA was present via Zoom to discuss the Letter of Conditions for FY2020

Rural Business Development Grant in the amount of $150,000. The technical assistance grant

will be used for the Tall Glass of Water (TGOW) project.

The full Letter was made available to the Board of Commissioners in this evening’s Board

packet.

After the Letter of Conditions was briefly reviewed, Robin Payne, TGOW Project Manager,

thanked Ms. Hardison for assistance with this grant. Ms. Payne noted that she was thrilled to

have this grant received.

AMENDING OF THE AGENDA

Commissioner Bazemore requested that two (2) items be added to the agenda.

The first entitled “Appreciation” under D-1.

The second entitled “Holiday” under D-4.

Chair Wesson inquired if there were any other additions to the agenda.

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to amend the agenda with the two (2) requested items.

Chair Lee SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

23

3

Board Appointments (B)

Bertie County Public Library Board

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to reappoint Kay Brantley and Daphne Bond to the Bertie

County Library Board. Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION

PASSED unanimously.

Chair Wesson noted that there was one (1) additional vacancy on the Bertie County Library

Board. Any citizen that is interested is able to apply for appointment to any of the boards or

commissions with vacancies. Applications are available through the Clerk to the Board’s office.

Voluntary Agricultural District Board

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to reappoint Sid Copeland, Harold Lawrence, Joseph Leggett,

and Jimmy Mizelle to the Voluntary Agricultural District Board. Commissioner Trent

SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

APPOINTMENTS & REPORTS continued

2020 Early Voting Plans for 2020 Election by Sheila Holloman, Director, Board of

Elections

Board of Elections Director, Sheila Holloman, is participating in tonight’s meeting to advise the

Board of Commissioners of the latest plans related to one-stop voting sites for the upcoming

presidential election.

The State Board of Elections has advised all local boards to accommodate as many voting sites

as possible. The sites being proposed for this year’s election: Board of Elections Office in

Windsor, the Lewiston-Woodville Fire Department in Lewiston-Woodville, and a site in the

Town of Powellsville.

All health and safety precautions will be taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Bertie

County Inspections has deemed that no more than twenty people should be inside each of these

voting sites at one time to better adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Once the formal plan is approved, dates and hours for voting will be announced to the public.

Early voting is set to begin on/around October 15th. Interested citizens are still able to apply to

become an election official by going online through the NC State Board of Elections.

24

4

Chair Wesson inquired about the process for absentee ballots. Ms. Holloman noted that a form

was available on the County’s website to request an absentee ballot. If the form is completed

correctly, it will be processed by the Bertie County Board of Elections. Absentee ballots can be

requested until October 27th, and must be returned by Election Day.

In conclusion, Chair Wesson requested that Ms. Holloman report back to the Board when a final

plan was approved by the State Board of Elections.

CONSENT AGENDA



3. Approve Minutes for Budget Work Session 6-4-20

4. Approve Minutes for Budget Public Hearing 6-15-20

5. Approve Minutes for Budget Work Session 6-18-20

Commissioner Bazemore made a MOTION to approve Consent Agenda Items #1-5.

Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

6. Approve resolution in support of acceptance USDA FY2020 Rural Business

Development Grant for Technical Assistance needs -TGOW project

After a brief discussion, Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to accept and approve the

resolution in support of acceptance of the USDA FY2020 Rural Business Development Grant for

Technical Assistance needs related to the Tall Glass of Water (TGOW) project. Commissioner

Bazemore SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

25

5

7. Approve NCDEQ-WI Asset Inventory & Assessment Grant & Project Ordinance

#20-02 - $150,000

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to approve the NCDEQ-WI Asset Inventory &

Assessment & Project Ordinance #20-02 for $150,000. Vice Chair Lee SECONDED the

motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

8. Approve Register of Deeds Fees Report – June 2020

9. Approve Tax Release Journal - June 2020

Commissioner Lee made a MOTION to approve Consent Items #8-9. Commissioner Bazemore


26

6

DISCUSSION

Budget amendments & Updates from Finance Director William Roberson

The following budget amendments were briefly reviewed:

All supporting documentation was submitted to the Board in tonight’s agenda packet, and is also

available online through the County’s website.

Employee appreciation

Commissioner Bazemore recognized County employees who have continued to work throughout

the pandemic even with small children, elderly parents, etc. She inquired if the COVID-19

money recently received by the County could be used to give a bonus to all County staff.

County Manager Vaughan noted that the new funding received would only be eligible for

emergency response workers such as law enforcement and EMS.

After a short discussion, County Administration was encouraged to continue to research the

possibilities of any new funding that could be passed down from the NC General Assembly

which could be used for an across the board increase.

27

7

Invoice for Disaster Recovery Coordinator Services, Mid-East Commission

The Board briefly discussed past meetings, and noted that no one recalled this item being

presented to the Board by the Mid-East Commissioner.

Emergency Services Director, Mitch Cooper, noted that there was a partnership presented to the

Board with East Carolina University. At the time, Mr. Cooper noted that no funds were being

obligated, and that this was simply a “bridge” between the County and ECU to update the

County Emergency Operations Plan. The Plan was then used for a project of the length of a

semester.

Mr. Cooper recalled that this was mostly a conversation piece, and that he had not committed the

County to any costs. He mentioned that for $10,000, he would like to see a new plan that can be

ready to to submit to the Board for approval instead of a set of suggested changes to the Plan.

There was interest from Commissioner Bazemore and Commissioner Trent to receive a

presentation from the Mid-East Commission about when and where costs were discussed for this

project. There was consensus for Mr. Buck to approach the Board with this matter at the August

3rd work session.

2020 NACo/NCACC Voting Delegates – virtual business meetings & conference

The Board reached consensus to have Chairman Ronald Wesson as the voting delegate for both

the NACo Business Meeting, as well as the NCACC Voting delegate.

First read: proposed 2021 Commissioners meeting schedule, 2021 State Holiday

schedule

Commissioner Bazemore proposed that June 19th (Juneteenth) be added to the County’s holiday

schedule beginning in 2021. Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to add this holiday to the

County’s local holiday schedule in addition to the NC State holiday schedule. Vice Chair Lee


Commissioner Lee presented a couple of concerns with April 2021’s meeting dates which will be

closely reviewed.

Census 2020 Update – response rates by municipality

Planning & Inspections Director, as well as Census liaison, Traci White, presented the

following updates:

28

8

National 62.0%

NC 58.2%

Bertie County 49.5%

Askewville 66.4%

Aulander 37.4%

Colerain 48.3%

Kelford 36.3%

Lewiston Woodville 33.7%

Powellsville 45.1%

Roxobel 42.5%

Windsor 55.7%

Ms. White also discussed a rapid grant opportunity through the NC Census Count Coalition

with applications due on July 24th. The grant focuses on outreach opportunities for under

counted populations. She noted that citizens could receive a free snow cone or similar item

for coming out and speaking with Census Count Committee members, or Census takers.

There was some additional discussion about doing outreach at the local food banks in the

County.

Commissioner Bazemore noted that it could be very beneficial for the County to host another

virtual town hall with all town mayors to better encourage areas to keep completing their

Census surveys.

Proposed increase for cost per panel for solar farms

This discussion is in follow up to a question posed by Commissioner Trent at a recent meeting.

The Board’s agenda packet included the following attachment:

29

10

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to increase the cost per solar panel from $0.50 per panel to

$1.50 per panel. Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED

unanimously.

Looking Ahead: County operations at the end of the extension of Phase 2

The Board received a copy of a memorandum that all Department Heads received this week

discussing the safety precautions that are currently planned for reopening county offices.

Currently, the following is in place from Governor Cooper:

Commissioners’ Reports (E)

Vice Chair Lee

Vice Chair Lee commended Renee Draper in Aulander for her new job opportunity in Hertford

County. She also noted several concerns about the Hardentown and Rosemead

convenience/trash sites, and felt that more work needed to be done to ensure these sites were

always accessible to the public as needed. She mentioned two (2) occasions where a Republic

Services employee was not present at their post upon the scheduling opening, and that several

compactors are full at each site making it difficult for residents to drop off their trash.

She also discussed her recent Tri-County Airport Authority Board meeting where construction is

still underway on the new terminal building. Furniture and fixtures are being discussed.

Commissioner Trent

Commissioner noted that he was asked to participate in a meeting with Roanoke Electric

Cooperative. They gave a brief update about Roanoke Connect and that a new contractor had

just been hired. No completion dates have been discussed thus far. Refueling stations are also

being brainstormed for electric vehicles. Also, solar panels were briefly discussed. Roanoke

Electric was also participating in water towers as hot spots for broadband in those nearby areas.

31

11

Commissioner Bazemore

Commissioner Bazemore noted that additional access to internet and broadband is so important,

and that COVID-19 has really shown those in this county how important it is for students and

citizens to have affordable internet options. The County’s Economic Development Director, and

Grant Writer/TGOW Project Manager, Robin Payne, are encouraged to seek grants to bring more

internet options to the County. Lastly, she noted how the Bertie Beach farm path is in good

shape.

Commissioner Atkins

Commissioner Atkins gave no remarks at this time.

Chair Wesson

Chair Wesson thanked all County employees for their service during the pandemic.

He also noted that several renovations were due to begin in the courthouse and Administration

building.

Lastly, he noted that the new MCC President was due to present several new programs at the

Bertie-Martin Community College Campus in Windsor.

County Manager’s Reports (F)

Mr. Vaughan announced that the occupancy certificate had been received for the new Blue Jay

Recreation Center. He also reported that sadly, the NC Works Career Center in Windsor closed

permanently on June 30, 2020. There are alternative site options in Windsor that could be

cheaper, and satellite options are being explored in both Powellsville and Lewiston-Woodville.

He also reminded the Board about the 10:00 AM Board work session on August 3rd. It will now

be held in this location instead of at the Roanoke-Cashie River Center.

32

12

County Attorney’s Reports (G)

County Attorney Smith reminder the Board about a needed Closed Session to discuss personnel

matters.

Public Comments

Melissa Pasek requested an update about renovations to the Bertie County Humane Society.

Mr. Vaughan noted that the renovations for this project are still in the works and have been

budgeted in this year’s budget.

Gwen Bond-Williams discussed how she would like to see the Board host another Town Hall

meeting with Commissioners, citizens, and County staff to better improve communications

between citizens and their town officials.

Iris Liverman of Cooper Hill Road in Windsor came forward to express her concerns about

alleged fraud relating to an unauthorized phone service. She also noted frequent occurrences of

loud, “bomb” like noises as well as bright lights in the very near vicinity of her home. She stated

that she felt as if she was being targeted. She also noted that she had contacted local authorities

about these occurrences. In addition, she noted a visit from Water Department personnel that

have made her feel that she was being improperly charged for water usage.

The Board will discuss this matter again on August 3rd.

CLOSED SESSION

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to go into Closed Session pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 143-

318.11(a)(3). Vice Chair Lee SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to return to Open Session. Commissioner Bazemore


ADJOURN

Commissioner Bazemore made a MOTION to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 PM. Commissioner

Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

33

C-3

34

1


July 23, 2020

EMERGENCY MEETING

The Bertie County Board of Commissioners met for a regularly scheduled meeting today inside

the Commissioners Room, 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic,

this meeting was hosted partially in person, and partially via Zoom (conference call). The

following members were present or absent:

Present: Ronald “Ron” Wesson, District I (Zoom)

Greg Atkins, District II (Zoom)

Tammy A. Lee, District III (Zoom)

John Trent, District IV (Zoom)

Ernestine (Byrd) Bazemore, District V (Zoom)

Absent: None

Staff Present: None

Staff Present (Zoom): County Manager Juan Vaughan, II.

County Attorney Lloyd Smith

Clerk to the Board Sarah Tinkham


Human Resources & Risk Manager Director Cortney Ward

Cal Bryant of the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald and Thadd White of the Bertie-Ledger

Advance were present from the media via Zoom.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Wesson called the emergency meeting to order.

35

2

OPEN SESSION

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to go into Closed Session pursuant to pursuant to N.C.G.S. §

143-318.11(a)(6) to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness,

conditions of employment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or

employee or prospective public officer or employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint,

charge, or grievance by or against an individual public officer or employee. Commissioner

Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

At this time the Board shifted into Closed Session.

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to return to Open Session. Commissioner Bazemore


ADJOURN

Chairman Wesson called for a motion to ADJOURN the meeting at 11:00 AM.

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to adjourn. Commissioner Bazemore


36

C-4

37

1


August 10, 2020

WORK SESSION

Rescheduled from August 3

The Bertie County Board of Commissioners met for a regularly scheduled meeting on this

rescheduled date inside the Commissioners Room, 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC. The

meeting was rescheduled due to preparations for Hurricane Isaias.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this rescheduled meeting was hosted partially in person, and

partially via Zoom (conference call). The following members were present or absent:

Present: Ronald “Ron” Wesson, District I (Zoom)

Greg Atkins, District II (Zoom)

Tammy A. Lee, District III (Zoom)

John Trent, District IV (Zoom)

Ernestine (Byrd) Bazemore, District V (Zoom)

Absent: None

Staff Present: County Manager Juan Vaughan, II.


Economic Development Director Steve Biggs

Staff Present (Zoom): Clerk to the Board Sarah Tinkham

Human Resources & Risk Mgmt. Director Cortney Ward

Cal Bryant of the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald and Thadd White of the Bertie-Ledger

Advance were present from the media via Zoom.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Wesson called the meeting to order.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

38

2

Commissioner Lee gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

BRIEF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Chairman Wesson made a brief statement thanking various members of the County staff,

religious organizations, and all of the State assistance and strike teams who have been serving

Bertie County since the storm impacted our area about one (1) week ago.

All County staff were commended for their diligence and hard work.

Chairman Wesson noted that the work will continue to assist citizens during their time of need.

MORNING ROAD TORNADO/TROPICAL STORM ISAIAS

Emergency Services Director, Mitch Cooper, provided a lengthy update to the Board about

recovery efforts.

He distributed a hand out containing all of the affected addresses with the majority centralized in

the Cedar Landing Community.

There was some discussion about why Siloam Baptist Church was utilized as an Emergency

Operations Center instead of Cedar Landing Baptist Church or St. Paul’s Church. Mr. Cooper

noted that due to the timing of this tornado (overnight), options were limited due to blocked

roads, power outages, and other factors.

Siloam Baptist Church was utilized because they were with power, and could provide access to a

large parking area for response vehicles and equipment, several large meeting spaces with power

immediately available in the overnight hours. It was also easily accessible from a main highway.

Plans for outfitting Cedar Landing Baptist Church as a point of distribution (POD) site for

essential supplies was also discussed in the earliest stages to ensure supplies would be available

closer to the area most impacted. The POD site is in operation, but will close by the end of this

week if there is not enough need for the items.

Mr. Cooper also discussed logistics about the teams still located in Bertie County, and that the

time was near for the County to resume day to day operations in the recovery phase of this

disaster. The Baptist on Mission are also conducting meal services, while Hearts with Hands is

assisting at the County’s Storm Relief Donation Center set to open this week.

The initial damage assessment was completed in just nine (9) hours with the assistance of the

strike teams in place to assist the County.

He emphasized that temporary housing was a huge priority at this time, as well as getting

donation items from the various donation points to those most in need. There is currently an

option available for placing campers on County-leased land, but discussion is still needed to

make this happen.

39

3

Debris removal was also briefly discussed, and more information on that is forthcoming.

The Board also asked various questions of two (2) representatives from North Carolina

Emergency Management.

TGOW UPDATES – ROBIN PAYNE, PROJECT CONSULTANT

Grants Submitted

TGOW Project Manager Robin Payne reviewed each of the grants to be submitted for Phase I

including information on match requirements.

A lengthy discussion ensued about the archeological resources at the site, as well as shoreline

stabilization.

Commissioners proposed additional meetings to learn more about both initiatives.

Ms. Payne also briefly discussed the 2020-21 North Carolina Division of Coastal Management

Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access (CAMA Grant). The grant amount would be

$146,772.

Ms. Payne reviewed each of the activities proposed to DCM for funding and reviewed a timeline

for beginning Phase I work.

A public comment notice was issued on July 27, 2020 with informational materials available on

the County website, in tonight’s agenda packet, and on the County Facebook page.

Chairman Wesson gave an additional opportunity for new public comments to be submitted. No

comments were received during this Public Comment period.

Ms. Payne then distributed a copy of 1 email comment from Bertie citizen, Scott Sauer, that was

received in July.

After a brief discussion, Commissioner Tammy Lee made a MOTION for Bertie County to

submit a grant application for the 2020-2021 NC Division of Coastal Management Public Beach

and Coastal Waterfront Access (CAMA grant) in the amount of $146,772. Commissioner

Bazemore the SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously after the roll

call vote.

After an additional discussion, the Board came to a consensus to refrain from applying for the

NC Resilient Coastal Communities program grant at this time.

RECESS

The Board took a brief 15-minute recess before returning to work through lunch.

40

4

CONSENT AGENDA

Council on Aging Food Service Contract

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to approve the Council on Aging Food Service contract.

Commissioner Bazemore SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously after

the roll call vote.

Council on Aging In-Home Healthcare Contract

Commissioner Bazemore made a MOTION to approve the Council on Aging In-Home

Healthcare contract. Vice Chair Lee SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED

unanimously after the roll call vote.

Home & Community Care Block Grant for Older Adults

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to approve the Home & Community Care Block grant for

Older Adults materials. Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION

PASSED unanimously after the roll call vote.

Eastern North Carolina Civic Group resolution (per Chair Wesson)

Commissioner Bazemore made a MOTION to approve and pass the Eastern NC Civic Group

resolution as introduced by Chair Wesson. Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The

MOTION PASSED unanimously after the roll call vote.

Updated DSS salary schedule

Chair Wesson made a MOTION to approve the update DSS salary schedule per State protocol,

as well as to update the County’s salary schedule to reflect the same. Commissioner Trent

SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously after the roll call vote.

41

5

NC Rebuild – Disaster Recovery Funds – North Carolina Office of Resiliency & Recovery

A representative from NC Rebuild will be available to present at an upcoming Board meeting.

At this time, Chair Wesson briefly summarized the program as one that is available to citizens

who received damages due to federally declared storms.

The program can provide funding for replacement construction as well as rehabilitation of

damaged homes for those who own their homes as well as the land.

How to apply was also briefly discussed, and would not present additional burden on County

staff as NC Rebuild could provide intake services over the phone or online.

More information about this program is forthcoming.

Second Draft: 2021 Commissioners Meeting Schedule, Local & State Holiday Schedule

County Manager Vaughan noted a couple of changes that were made since the first draft was

submitted to the Board back in July.

No action was taken at this time, but the schedules will be present for a final time at an upcoming

meeting.

At this time, Chair Wesson inquired if the Board would still like to host their regularly scheduled

meeting on August 17th.

There was consensus that the Board was comfortable in cancelling the meeting on August 17th as

storm recovery efforts continue.

Census 2020 Initiatives

Traci White, Census Liaison for the Census Count Committee, discussed the new Census

deadline of September 31st, 2020. This is an additional change to the schedule. The previous

deadline was the end of October.

She noted that funding would be needed if the County would like to consider a Census event

where incentives could be provided during a promotional Census event.

Mrs. White also discussed the Census bus, and how it was originally intended for recruiting

Census takers.

42

6

Chair Wesson wanted to see if we still had the opportunity to employee Bertie residents as

Census takers so that way citizens may be more likely to open the door, and consider filling out

the Census if they have not done so already.

The County’s new Census representative was impressed with Bertie’s progress thus far, and that

response rate numbers may actually be higher than what appears online.

There were some conversations about enlisting the area church organizations to assist in

promoting completion of the Census.

COVID Updates

• State of the County

• Reopening of County facilities upon completion of newly extended Phase 2

• Ending of covering fees for online payments

Current COVID-109 numbers were presented by County Manager Vaughan.

Mr. Vaughan reiterated that Phase 2 was extended until Friday, September 11th.

Commissioner Trent inquired if the moratorium on utility cut offs to which Mr. Vaughan

clarified that it expired on July 31, 2020.

A discussion was also needed about weather or not the Board would like to extend the County’s

current policy of by appointment only services at all County buildings, as well as consider

continuing convenience fees for water and tax bills.

There was consensus among the Board to keep County facilities under the current policy of

being open to the public by appointment only until at least September 11, 2020.

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to continue waiving convenience fees for water bills, but

to cease covering the fees related to paying property tax bills online. Commissioner Bazemore

SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED in a 4-1 vote with Vice Chair Lee voting no.

There was also a short discussion about local area COVID-19 outbreaks.

Disaster Recovery Coordinator Services – Bryant Buck, Executive Director Mid-East

Commission

Bryant Buck, as well as Lisa Williams, of the Mid-East Commission were present for this

discussion.

The grant process was summarized, and discussed the background of this project which led to the

issuance of an invoice for a Disaster Recovery Coordinator.

Some confusion is still apparent as to when the County committed to the $10,000 fee for these

services.

43

7

Part of the services provided included a full review of the County’s Emergency Operations Plan.

Executive Director Buck also briefly summarized other grant opportunities that could become

available soon related to the pandemic and storm response and recovery.

Several Board members noted that they would have expected this sort of financial commitment

be presented to the entire Board in advance.

No conclusion about dispensing payment for this invoice was reached at this time.

CLOSED SESSION

Vice Chair Lee made a MOTION to go into Closed Session pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 143-

318.11(a)(4) to discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries or other

businesses in the area served by the public body, including agreement on a tentative list of

economic development incentives that may be offered by the public body in negotiations. The

action approves the signing of an economic development contract or commitment, or the action

authorizing the payment of economic development expenditures, shall be taken in an open

session. Commissioner Trent SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously

after the roll call vote.

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to return to Open Session. Commissioner Bazemore


OPEN SESSION

Prioritizing County Projects

County Manager Vaughan allowed the Commissioners the opportunity to discuss prioritizing

County projects.

Some of the projects includes a cost living adjustment for all employees, the teacher housing

initiative, furnishings for the new Cooperative Extension/Library facility, mandated upgrade in

voting machines, courthouse clock renovations, etc.

Commissioner Bazemore also inquired if the Assistant County Manager position was budgeted

into this year’s budget, and the Board was informed that this is the case.

A brief discussion was also conducted about the Board become clearer about how the Bertie

County Morning Road Tornado Relief Funds will be dispersed. Commissioner Bazemore noted

that rumors were out there, and that the Board should be transparent.

44

8

It was decided that the local Tornado Relief funds will be used to help citizens with as much

immediate assistance as the County can provide as it continues to work with State and Federal

partners to address larger needs and long-range solutions.

Those who were most impacted will have first priority. Cash gift cards from the credit union

will be used for disperse the funds as they do not impose any fees.

Donations can be made to the Relief Fund via PayPal by going to paypal.me/BertieStrong. A

donation button is also available on the County’s website.

This fund is the only County sanctioned and approved fund by the Bertie County Board of

Commissioners for Tropical Storm Isaias and the Morning Road tornado.

Donations to the Relief Fund may also be made payable and mailed to Bertie County, ATTN:

Bertie County Morning Road Tornado Relief Fund, PO Box 530, Windsor, NC 27983.

The Board noted that funds will be dispersed as long as new donations are being made for

tornado and Tropical Isaias victims.

Financial & Audit Updates

Overview & Discussion of Priorities

The Board reviewed several documents provided by the Finance Officer, William Roberson.

There was also a lengthy discussion about the County’s current fund balance. Efforts will

continue to be made to secure a final copy of the latest audit. Arrangements will also soon be

underway for the next audit scheduled to take place this fall.

ADJOURN

Commissioner Trent made a MOTION to ADJOURN the meeting at approximately 3:00 PM.

Commissioner Bazemore SECONDED the motion. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.

45

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/my/profile

C-6

46

THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

48

C-7

50

C-8

56

2021 Holiday Schedule

Holiday Observance Day of Week

New Year’s Day January 1, 2021 Friday

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday January 18, 2021 Monday

Good Friday April 2, 2021 Friday

Memorial Day May 31, 2021 Monday

Freedom Day (Juneteenth) June 18, 2021 Friday

Independence Day July 5, 2021 Monday

Labor Day September 6, 2021 Monday

Veterans Day November 11, 2021 Thursday

Thanksgiving November 25 & 26, 2021 Thursday & Friday

Christmas December 23-24 & 27, 2021 Thursday, Friday & Monday


57

Meeting Date Time Meeting Area Meeting Location

1/4/2021 6:00 PM Commissioners Room 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC

*Wed., 1/20/2021 10:00 AM Work Session TBD Work Session TBD

2/1/2021 6:00 PM Community TBD Community TBD

*Tues., 2/17/2021 10:00 AM Work Session TBD Work Session TBD




*Tues.,6/1/2021 6:00 PM Commissioners Room 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC

6/14/2021 6:00 PM Commissioners Room BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING - 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC


8/2/2021 10:00 AM Spivey Meeting Room Roanoke Cashie River Center, 112 W. Water Street, Windsor, NC


*Tues., 9/7/2021 6:00 PM Commissioners Room 106 Dundee Street, Windsor, NC

10/4/2021 10:00 AM Work Session TBD Work Session TBD




2020 MEETING SCHEDULE - BERTIE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

*** If there are any questions regarding this calendar, please call the Clerk to the Board at (252)794-6110.***

This schedule is subject to change. Please visit the County website (www.co.bertie.nc.us) to receive information about cancellations or meeting location changes.

All meetings are scheduled on Monday unless denoted with an asterick(*).

58

C-9

59

C-10

100

ITEM ABSTRACT


SECTION: Discussion (D-1 to D-4)


TOPIC(S):

1. Invoice for Disaster Recovery Coordinator, Mid-East Commission

2. 2020 Fall/Winter Surplus Property Auction – overall logistics, Legal support, and

resolutions for real and personal property

3. Alternative suggestions for the 2020 Employee Appreciation Luncheon, yearly Service

Awards

4. Census update by County CENSUS Liaison, Traci White, Planning & Inspections

Director

COUNTY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION OR COMMENTS: Discussion requested.

SUMMARY OF AGENDA ITEM AND/OR NEEDED ACTION(S): --

ATTACHMENTS: Yes


ITEM HISTORY: ---


105

D-1

106

D-2

117

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION

Bertie County


MEETING DATE: Tuesday, September 8, 2020

SUBJECT: Fall/Winter 2020 surplus property auction

SUMMARY OF REQUEST:

Pursuant to N.C. General Statute §160A-270, the Governing Body may choose to hold public auction for

surplus real and personal property either live or by electronic means, as long as certain conditions are met.

Items C and D of the enclosed document describe the procedures that must be followed by the Governing Body,

and may be further clarified by the County’s legal team:

1. Motion #1: Declare real and personal property included in the Board’s agenda packet as surplus;

informally schedule date of auction as Saturday, November 14, 2020 by either in person, and/or

electronic means.

2. Motion #2: Allow County’s Legal Team and County Administration to move forward with the

completion of two (2) needed resolutions for dual advertising that specify logistics of the sales, and

descriptions of the real/personal property to be auctioned.

3. Upon completion of the auction, the Governing Body will have the opportunity to review and accept,

or decline, bids for real property before sale becomes official.

BOARD ACTION REQUESTED:

It is requested that the Board approve the two motions listed above, as well as any additions to the motions

requested by the County’s legal team.

If the Board is so inclined, the following motions are suggested:

Motion#1:

“I move that the Board declare the enclosed items of real and personal property as surplus to

be sold at public auction on Saturday, November 14, 2020 either in person and/or by

electronic means.”

Motion#2:

“I move that the Board allow the County Attorney and County Administration to move

forward with the completion of the two (2) needed resolutions, as well as the required

advertising to remain in compliance with NC General Statutes.”

118

Ambulance Vin# Notes

2002 F-450 1FDXF46F72EA28900 Main belt broken on motor, electrical and structural issues in the medical box / 7.3

2006 E-350 1FDSS34P86DA32476 EGR COOLER CRACKED, TOP END WORK NEEDED FOR THE MOTOR / 6.0

2005 E-350 1FDWE35P34HA84093 EGR COOLER CRACKED, TOP END WORK NEEDED FOR THE MOTOR / 6.0

1999 F-450 1FDXF46F3XED09017 Electrical and structural issues in the medical box / 7.3

2006 E-350 1FDSS34P15HA06812 EGR COOLER CRACKED, TOP END WORK NEEDED FOR THE MOTOR / 6.0

2002 F-450 1FDXF46F42EA28899 Electrical and structural issues in the medical box / 7.3

Vehicle Vin/Serial# Notes

1995 Ford 1FMDU34X3SUB50478 No key.

Renegade 50 Black Scooter 1H1THBBN00B004309 No key.

2000 Yamaha YZFR1 Motorcycle NCMS72397 No key.

1995 Pontiac Trans Sport 1GMDU06L4ST203249 No key.

1999 GMC TK 1GKEK13R4XR905061 No key.

1995 Lincoln Town Car 1LNLM82W6SY690161 No key.

1994 Ford Thunderbird 1FALP6248RH110388 No key.

1995 Ford Escort 1FASP11J8SW384942 No key.

1987 Dodge TK 1B7FD04T0HS471116 No key. Recovered from river - scrap only.

2018 Jeep 4 Door 1C4HJXDGXJW121908 Burned - scrap only.

Unidentified Vehicle TBD by NCDMV Burned - scrap only.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

SHERIFFS' OFFICE

Per Detective Pittman, 2-2.5 months is needed to petition the court for the following vehicles to be sold at auction.

Date of auction must be scheduled before the court can be petitioned.

Sheet 1 - Page 1 of 2

119

Equipment Model # Notes

Generator 100-0-DGDBL-U/5079A 100 Kilowat Onan with Cummins Engine - 292 hours, fully enclosed.

S#G870910777

Generator 3116 100 Kilowat Caterpillar - 1462 hours, fully enclosed.

S#2SG00851

TBD Pending Submission by Maintenance Superintendent, Anthony Rascoe

WATER DEPARTMENT

MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT

Sheet 1 - Page 2 of 2. See Sheet 2 for Tax Department foreclosures.

120

Parcel Address Value in 2019 Value in 2020 Year in FC

1 5846-18-7777 3012 Governors Rd $18,665.00 $16,054.00 $2,020.00

2 6910-16-3024 107 Garrett St $4,702.00 $6,328.00 $2,019.00

3 5883-56-2279 849D Governors Rd $5,081.00 $7,406.00 $2,019.00

4 6810-23-4624 532 Woodard Rd $64,757.00 $14,404.00 $2,019.00

5 6930-37-8341 411 Quebec Rd $1,283.00 $1,584.00 $2,019.00

6 6930-37-4221 403 Quebec $1,634.00 $2,240.00 $2,019.00

7 6802-42-7948 202 H Bond St $8,906.00 $5,966.00 $2,019.00

8 6859-87-1576 2533 NC 45N $12,562.00 $11,194.00 $2,019.00

9 5836-88-5393 106 Hoggard St $1,106.00 $679.00 $2,018.00

10 6719-07-9171 315B Cedar Landing Rd $571.00 $7,881.00 $2,018.00

11 5883-95-0688 723 Governors Rd $1,600.00 $1,959.00 $2,018.00

12 5883-95-0751 725 Governors Rd $1,600.00 $1,959.00 $2,018.00

13 6809-06-9555 150 Helena Rd $7,140.00 $7,427.00 $2,018.00

14 6800-57-5311 104 N Clay St $382.00 $1,501.00 $2,018.00

15 6828-09-0637 810 Meadow Rd $11,018.00 $10,747.00 $2,018.00

16 6801-38-7512 120 New Hope Rd $2,760.00 $2,870.00 $2,017.00

17 5829-50-5296 413B Front St $2,103.00 $3,159.00 $2,017.00

18 6810-23-8257 542 Woodard Rd $7,174.00 $9,473.00 $2,011.00

TAX OFFICE - PREVIOUSLY FORECLOSED PROPERTIES

121

THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

122

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PUBLIC AUCTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY

Whereas, Bertie County has certain surplus personal property that is no longer being used by

the County, which personal property consists of vehicles, office furniture and equipment;

Whereas the County desires to sell this surplus personal property through public auction

pursuant to N.C.G.S. §153A-176 and 160A-270(b);

NOW THEREFORE, the Board of Commissioners of Bertie County hereby resolves as follows:

1. The County Commissioners authorize the sale by public auction of the personal property

described on Exhibit A attached.

2. The sale shall take place on the ___th day of _____, 2020, at [insert location as either

online or in person address, website address, etc.].

3. Notice of this sale shall be published at least once and not less than 10 days before the

sale in the Bertie Ledger Advance. Said notice shall specify the terms of sale, the time,

date and place of sale, and shall contain a description of the property to be sold.

4. Following publication of the notice of sale, a licensed auctioneer and real estate broker

Richard Vaughan of Rich & Rich Auctioneers, LLC, or his designee shall conduct the sale

at the designated time and place. The high bidder shall pay the purchase price of the

property on the date of sale by [insert payment method based on in person or online

sale -- cash, or by certified or cashier’s check, PayPal, etc.] and the property purchased

shall be removed by the high bidder within seven days of the date of the sale. Any

property not so removed by the successful bidder shall be considered forfeited and the

County may dispose of said property at its discretion and may retain the purchase price

paid by the successful bidder as liquidated damages. After the conclusion of the sale,

the results shall be reported to the Commissioners at their next regularly scheduled

meeting.

123

5. The County Manager is authorized to discard any personal property

that is remaining after the auction sale that he determines has no value, pursuant to

160A-266. If the County Manager feels that any such remaining personal property has

enough value to warrant further attempts at sale, he may attempt to sell such personal

property by whatever means he deems necessary and pursuant to N.C.G.S. 160A-266

shall keep a record of all property sold, which record shall generally describe the

personal property sold, to whom it was sold, and the sale price. If the County Manager

is unsuccessful in attempting to sell such personal property, he may discard such

property as originally authorized above.

Adopted this the 8th day of September, 2020, by unanimous vote of the Bertie County Board

of Commissioners at its regular meeting.

ATTEST: BERTIE COUNTY

_______________________________ __________________________________

Sarah Tinkham, Ronald Wesson

Clerk to the Board Chairman

Bertie County Board of Commissioners Bertie County Board of Commissioners

(SEAL)

124

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PUBLIC AUCTION OF REAL PROPERTY

Whereas, Bertie County acquired title to the below described tracts or parcels of land by virtue

of purchase by the County at tax foreclosure sales pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-376;

Whereas, the County desires to sell these tracts or parcels of land through public auction

pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-376 (c) and 160A-270(a);

NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Commissioners of Bertie County hereby resolves as follows:

1. The County Commissioners authorize the sale by public auction of the property

described on Schedule A attached.

2. The sale shall take place on the ___th day of _____, 2020, at [insert location as either

online or in person address, website address, etc.].

3. Notice of this sale shall be published at least once and not less than 10 days before the

sale in the Bertie Ledger Advance. Said notice shall specify the terms of sale, the

time, date and place of sale, and shall contain a description of the property to be sold.

4. Following publication of the notice of sale, a licensed auctioneer and real estate broker

Richard Vaughan of Rich & Rich Auctioneers, LLC, or his designee shall conduct the

sale at the designated time and place. The high bidder shall pay the purchase price of

the property on the date of sale by [insert payment method based on in person or

online sale -- cash, or by certified or cashier’s check, PayPal, etc.] and the property

purchased shall be removed by the high bidder within seven days of the date of the

sale. Any property not so removed by the successful bidder shall be considered

forfeited and the County may dispose of said property at its discretion and may retain

the purchase price paid by the successful bidder as liquidated damages. After the

conclusion of the sale, the results shall be reported to the Commissioners at their next

regularly scheduled meeting, and the Commissioners shall accept or reject the bid

within 30 days of said report.

125

Adopted this the 8th day of September, 2020, by unanimous vote of the Bertie County Board

of Commissioners at its regular meeting.

ATTEST: BERTIE COUNTY

_______________________________ __________________________________

Sarah Tinkham, Ronald Wesson

Clerk to the Board Chairman

Bertie County Board of Commissioners Bertie County Board of Commissioners

(SEAL)

126

SCHEDULE A

REAL PROPERTY

[INSERT LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS FOR EACH TRACT, ETC.]

127

bertie county board of commissionersbertiecounty.nc.gov/commissioners/meetings/2020/packets/...1 day...

Documents