file · web viewconvened for their regular monthly meeting on monday, november 1, 2004 at 6:00 p.m....

THE ANSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS convened for their regular monthly meeting on Monday, November 1, 2004 at 6:00 P.M. in Courtroom #1 located in the Anson County Courthouse.

Commissioners present: Blake Hildreth, ChairJarvis Woodburn, Vice ChairNeil JonesSteve LearDr. Jim SimsRoss Streater

Staff members present: Chris Wease, County ManagerJames Bennett, Assistant County ManagerBonnie M. Huntley, CMC, Clerk to the BoardMisty Randall, County AttorneyRita James, Data ProcessingShelley Maness, Finance OfficerVance Gulledge, Utilities AdministratorScott Rowell, ACTS Director

Chairman Hildreth called the meeting to Order, welcoming those present. Reverend Rob Rollins, First United Methodist Church, Wadesboro, delivered the Invocation.

Approval of the Agenda by Commissioners: Chairman Hildreth noted a couple of changes to the Agenda as presented. Chairman Hildreth noted that Laura Mundell and Michele Meredith would not be appearing tonight as indicated. Chairman Hildreth noted that both appearances would be carried over to the December meeting. County Manager Wease noted he had been contacted by a wireless carrier regarding installing an antenna on the Burnsville water tower and asked to place this item under Administrative Matters as item 5f. County Manager Wease noted that prior to the meeting, he was contacted by Ms. Bennett regarding appointments necessary to the Council on Aging Advisory Council. Chairman Hildreth added this item to the Agenda under appointments as item number 6c. Chairman Hildreth noted that Commissioner Streater would not be attending the meeting tonight and asked that his item under Commissioner Concerns be placed on the December Agenda. Commissioner Lear asked to add under Commissioner Concerns two issues concerning the tax rate and budget for next year. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to approve the Agenda as presented with the additions and deletions.

Public Hearing-ACTS Community Transportation Program’s Grant Application: Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to open the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

In the public hearing, County Manager Wease noted this was an opportunity for the public to comment on the county’s intent to make application to continue the Community Transportation program for the coming Fiscal Year. County Manager Wease explained that ACTS provides transportation for such agencies as the Department of Social Services, Health Department, Council on Aging, Sandhills Mental Health and McLaurin Vocational Training Center. Transportation is provided to various programs and events based on customer demand. Scott Rowell, ACTS Director, stated that no one contacted his office concerning the hearing. Mr. Rowell noted they are applying for the administrative and capital portion of the grant. Mr. Rowell stated that the administrative portion has a sliding fee schedule of $140,000 and in the capital they are asking for $81,900. Mr. Rowell noted they are also asking for two new vehicles, replacement computers and software. Commissioner Jones asked if this made any change to the Anson County budget with Mr. Rowell answering no. Mr. Rowell stated that the county share would be approximately $30,000, which is already in the cost allocation plan charged to passengers and repaid to the county. Commissioner Lear asked again the county portion with Mr. Rowell answering that is was 15% of the administrative budget and 10% of the capital. Chairman Hildreth called for any comments from the public. Being none, motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session, motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to approve Scott going forward. Motion carried unanimously.

Appearances: Chairman Hildreth noted there were four appearances and asked Board members to agree to set a five minute time limit for each. All members present agreed. County Manager Wease stated that the first appearance has requested a closed session with Board members. Commissioner Jones asked if the Board had authority to do so on a non-county property matter with County Manager Wease noting it was a county property acquisition. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to go into closed session pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)(5) to consider and take action with respect to the position to be taken by the county in negotiating the price or other material terms of an agreement for the acquisition or lease of real property. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session, motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to come out of closed session. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, that the Board of Commissioners gives the County Manager the authority to conduct negotiations with Hobbs Upchurch Engineers and report back to this board at its December meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Jim Flowers: Chairman Hildreth asked Mr. Flowers to be as expeditious as possible. Mr. Flowers, a real estate broker from Charlotte, explained that he represented Mr. Jerry Blackwelder in the sale of his farm in Cabarrus County back in July. Mr. Flowers noted that at the closing, Mr. Blackwelder was charged roll back

taxes in Cabarrus County. Mr. Blackwelder then purchased two farms in Anson County, buying eighty-four acres on Horton Road and has under contract another one hundred eighteen acres. Mr. Flowers stated that Mr. Blackwelder also closed on the purchase of another one hundred fifty acres in Anson County in July. Mr. Flowers stated that at the closing of this farm, Mr. Blackwelder signed an affidavit stating that he intends to keep the property in the farm use program. Mr. Flowers explained that Mr. Blackwelder received a letter from the Assessor’s office asking him to make application for the farm use program but in his relocation, he neglected to file the paper work within the allotted time frame. Mr. Flowers stated that when Mr. Blackwelder was reminded of the filing process, he was one day late in making application. Mr. Flowers stated that Mr. Green was sent a tax bill for $1247.23 and a bill was sent to Mr. Collins in the amount of $4965.05, both for four years rollback taxes. Mr. Flowers noted that if Mr. Green and Mr. Collins elect not to pay these taxes, Mr. Blackwelder will. Mr. Flowers asked the Board of Commissioners to forgive this debt and allow Mr. Blackwelder two weeks to file the appropriate papers for the farm use program. Mr. Flowers feels that Mr. Blackwelder will be an important citizen in Anson County and plans for his son to be a part of the community for a long time. County Manager Wease stated that the challenge facing the Board is that the Statute set sixty days from the time of the purchase to continue the land use designation and after the sixty days a tax bill is issued for not only the existing year but four years back. County Manager Wease stated he has consulted with other counties and other Assessors and the Department of Revenue and all indications are that the Board of Commissioners do not have authority the waive the sixty day period. County Manager Wease noted he was not aware of any legislation that would allow the Board to relieve any party of tax. Mr. Flowers explained that this was not blatant neglect and asked for a consideration from the Board to allow him to put this land back in the farm use program. County Manager Wease stated that we would accept the application now for next year. Chairman Hildreth voiced that the Statute says that if County Commissioners waive property taxes they could be subject individually and severally for that tax should another concerned citizen decide they should request it.

Alan Jackson & Jimmy Flake: Mr. Flake appeared on behalf of citizens living on Green Hill School Road to request a water line to be place on their road. Mr. Flake noted there were nine customers requesting water. Mr. Flake noted they were on the priority list and he believes they are number sixteen. Mr. Flake stated the request was for 6,900 feet of pipe with a project cost of $37,146. Mr. Flake shared that five residents have wells full of iron and have tried filters with no luck and are in desperate need of county water. Mr. Flake stated that there was only one creek to be crossed but nothing else he could think of to prevent installation of the line. Commissioner Sims reminded everyone of the water situation in the White Store community that is so bad animals can’t drink the water and asked to keep them in mind with any consideration that is given. Mr. Flake voiced that they have been requesting this line for several years and understands it has been delayed due to short budgets. County Manager Wease explained that the county has a priority list and his is the most recent project added to the list. County Manager Wease noted that if a project has a pay back of 10 years and based on the timing of the request and available funding, the county will try to construct

each line on the priority list. County Manager Wease offered that over the last few years, the county has been able to construct between seven and eleven miles a year. County Manager Wease offered that once a project becomes eligible for the priority list and the project meets the pay back requirement, the county has participated in the materials and engineering cost if the customers paid for the installation. County Manager Wease noted that the customers must install the line according to engineered and state specifications. Commissioner Jones asked Mr. Flake if he was aware of this with Mr. Flake of the understanding that the Commissioners would have to approve the process. County Manager Wease voiced that we would engineer the project and send it to the State where they have ninety days to review and approve the plans and return them for construction. County Manager Wease noted that the materials cost is about $22,000 and engineering is estimated to be approximately $3500. County Manager Wease stated it would then be the responsibility of the landowners to find someone to construct the project to the required specifications. Mr. Flake asked if the landowners would have to bid the project with County Manager Wease answering there were no bid requirements for the landowners but suggested they talk with Mr. Gulledge for more details. Mr. Gulledge offered that the contractor would have to install fire hydrants, valves and fittings. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion that Mr. Flake should meet with Mr. Gulledge to get the numbers and make sure they understand the specifics to make a decision if they can participate in the construction. Mr. Flake asked if the Board was saying they would be willing to furnish the material with Commissioner Jones stating that they would be willing to listen to Mr. Gulledge when he comes before the Board. Commissioner Sims commented that he does not see why it would not be fair to treat Mr. Flake the same way as others have been treated where the county has supplied the material with the customers installing the line according to proper specifications. Commissioner Sims voiced that this project would be a long time coming to the top of the priority list. Chairman Hildreth voiced that water department revenue and not ad valorem tax dollars have paid for waterlines. Chairman Hildreth noted the water department was running at about 25% capacity and they do not have the money to finance the project. Chairman Hildreth stated that when water rates were approved last fall, in anticipation of the current budget, construction of water lines almost ceased as an operation. Vice Chair Woodburn asked if all nine families would be able to help with the construction cost with Mr. Flake of the opinion that some would not be able to contribute. Chairman Hildreth noted that once the waterline is installed it will become the property of the county for maintenance. County Manager Wease stated that in reality, from the day we decide we want to install the waterline, it will be 120 days before we can expect a release from the State to begin construction and we could work towards this in the next budget year. Chairman Hildreth noted that action for Mr. Flake is to communicate with Mr. Gulledge. Commissioner Sims asked the status of the pumping station in Burnsville and the water tank for White Store. County Manager Wease offered that he understands we are negotiating with both property owners and drafting the deeds for the respective parcels. Chairman Hildreth stated that the pumping station has been an aspiration of his for the past four years and when we adopted water rates for this year we made the provision for the Burnsville pumping station. Mr. Gulledge offered that they are in the process of getting Deeds signed for both parcels. Mr. Gulledge noted that materials have been ordered for both projects

and the White Store water tank is due to arrive after the first of the year. Mr. Gulledge stated that contracts have been awarded for both projects. Mr. Gulledge noted that his department is doing a lot of construction on the pump station in order to save money.

Tommy Howell/Don Scarborough: Commissioner Sims offered that he talked with Mr. Howell this afternoon and explained that he is with his son who was injured in an accident. Mr. Scarborough, representing himself and property owners Jerry and Alice Cotton, explained that the matter revolves around a request Mr. Howell made to the Planning Board some months ago concerning a six-acre parcel on highway 52, just before McFarlan. Mr. Scarborough noted that from Ratliff Gin Road, just below Dan River Manufacturing, everything on the west side of highway 52 traveling south for two miles, is zoned LI, which is Light Industrial, and has been for many years. Mr. Scarborough noted that this means no residential construction inside this area. The Planning Board rejected Mr. Howell’s request making his only option being to appear before this Board to ask you to grant his request for residential zoning. Mr. Scarborough feels the two miles in question was placed in LI years ago arbitrarily and feels the best use of this area would be residential. Mr. Scarborough voiced that the Commissioners have shown their willingness to alter zoning when necessary to build things that would generate jobs. Mr. Scarborough feels that this particular parcel of land, being fourteen miles from Wadesboro, is not suitable to attract an industry and does not need LI zoning. Mr. Howell is requesting that the Board grant his request for residential zoning. Mr. Scarborough asked the Board to look into the possibility that the zoning should be altered to residential, feeling the highest and best use of the property is residential and not LI. Commissioner Sims asked Chairman Hildreth if it would be appropriate to address the correspondence from the Planning Board at this time. Commissioner Sims noted that prior to Mr. Scarborough’s appearance, the Planning Board had asked the Board of Commissioners to suspend new rezoning until they re-examine those roads and various areas and make the adjustments or changes where appropriate. Commissioner Sims stated that the Planning Board has asked for time to complete the project and $3000 from codification funds. Mr. Sikes, Planning Board Chairman, stated it could take as much as one year to have everything in place. Mr. Sikes noted Mr. Howell’s request to the Planing Board met opposition from neighbors. Mr. Sikes stated that the eastbound side of highway 74 is presently zoned R-20. Mr. Sikes noted that we are looking at zoning that was done in 1971 and they want to look into all these issues. Mr. Scarborough stated that this meets his request but did mention that when the LI designation was assigned to this area, the railroad still existed.

Consent Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to approve. Commissioner Sims, voicing that he does not want to see another tax increase next year, stated that he would vote against this motion since many of these items have an expenditure of money. Vice Chair Woodburn asked if most, if not all, the money needed for item g, Little Park Pool Project, had been raised by private donation with County Manager Wease answering this was the project to put a bubble over the pool and restroom facilities adjacent to the pool. County Manager Wease explained that the project is funded in part with private money and through a portion of the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant. Commissioner Jones asked if

any of the money being spent on item g was county money with County Manager Wease answering that it was all private and grant funds. County Manager Wease then explained other consent items as follows; item g – Economic Development Initiative-State Development Zone Application- is asking that authority be given to the County Manager and Kevin Gullette to make an application to the North Carolina Department of Commerce to designate the eligible areas of the county as a State Development Zone. County Manager Wease stated this would allow any business expansion, a new business or job creation to receive the same tax credits that are reserved for tier one counties. County Manager Wease feels that all our certified sites would qualify as well as some of our major employers. Item i-IBM Lease Agreement covers our currently leased mainframe computer which is an AS 400. County Manager Wease noted all of our records are stored on this mainframe and the new lease is for a more powerful computer at approximately $400 a month less than we currently are paying. County Manager Wease noted funds for this are in the current budget. Commissioner Sims voiced that he does not like things to be open ended when it comes to money and read where the contract was reworked. Item h-Forestry Service Funding Agreement is our annual budgetary agreement, item e-SPCC Additional Funding Request is where they had an HVAC unit to go completely out and it requires an additional $13,000 for replacement. Commissioner Sims noted that when reviewing this item, he saw only one vendor and asked if they had bids from other vendors for this project. County Manager Wease was of the opinion that they may have done informal bids but was not sure but would be glad to ask. Commissioner Sims noted that he only wants to make sure they got the best possible deal for them and the county. Vice Chair Woodburn offered that he feels sure they did as that is the usual way that Mr. Truett works. County Manager Wease noted that he would ask and report back to the Board. Chairman Hildreth stated that he noticed this was going on in early August and the county was not alerted to the problem but received the bill. Chairman Hildreth asked if we received a call that this was coming with County Manager Wease answering that he received a letter just before the October meeting. County Manager Wease noted that he understands that they tried to work it within their existing budget but with the high cost they were unable to do so. Commissioner Sims asked if the unit was already ordered and installed with County Manager Wease answering yes. Commissioner Sims questioned the ambulance with County Manager Wease noting this was the vehicle rotation agreed to last year. County Manager Wease noted that not updating the vehicles on a regular basis would find us having all vehicles that are not fit for the road. County Manager Wease reminded Board members that we did not purchase an ambulance last year and the consultant with the EMS study pointed out that if we purchase a more substantial ambulance we can save money on operational cost. County Manager Wease stated that he received a recommendation to have the EMS Advisory Board consider the virtue of purchasing an ambulance that is different from the fleet we already have. Commissioner Sims offered that he is questioning this item in order to save money for our taxpayers. County Manager Wease noted that the costs were estimates. Commissioner Sims asked if it was an absolute necessity to replace the ambulance this year with County Manager Wease answering yes. County Manager Wease did note that he was of the opinion that the cost and kind were open for debate and discussion. Chairman Hildreth stated that the return of EMS to the county was believed to offer benefit of some of the ambulances

out in the rural fire departments and the rescue squads that might allow us to have a lesser inventory and asked if we had realized anything from this. County Manager Wease noted that was among the recommendation from the EMS study, which was to better utilize the volunteer core to reduce the number of shifts. County Manager Wease did offer that he did not know if this would translate into saving the need to replace an ambulance but it does translate into operational savings. Merrill Naylor, Emergency Management Director, stated that our biggest problem is transfers wherein we can’t utilize a rescue truck because of the time involved. Mr. Naylor also explained that they are averaging over 120,000 miles a year on the fleet and was of the opinion that a larger unit for transfers would mean less wear and tear on the ambulance. County Manager Wease was of the opinion that a more in-depth discussion of the type of ambulance we should buy was needed and suggested including the EMS Advisory Board in the discussion. After discussion, Commissioner Lear withdrew his motion with Vice Chair Woodburn withdrawing his second. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to delete item d-Vehicle Rotation-EMS only and item e, SPCC Additional Funding Request-budget amendment from the consent agenda and these items be placed on a future Agenda and that the balance of the consent agenda be approved. Motion carried unanimously.

Consent Agenda:Minutes: Approved minutes from regular meetings dated September 13, 2004, September 14,

2004 and October 1, 2004 and two closed session minutes dated September 14, 2004.Budget Report: The report indicates our cash situation is continuing to improve as tax revenues

increase. Departments are operating within the established budgetary parameters with the exception of the landfill, which is being impacted by unexpectedly high consulting fees due to recent construction activity.

Budget Amendments: The first amendment appropriates new grant funding for the Board of Elections for technology.

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004/05

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2004/05 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:

Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase: 11-4170 $ 15,975

Total Increase $ 15,975Section 2. General Fund Revenues:

Increase: 11-4170 $ 15,975Total Increase $ 15,975

Adopted this 1st day of November, 2004.

The next amendment appropriates additional grant funding for Emergency Management that will be used to make improvements to the DEC building that will help incorporate the new 911 equipment into the Emergency Operations Center. More information will be presented at the December meeting.

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004/05

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2004/05 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:



Increase: 11-4330 $ 13,363

Total Increase $ 13,363Adopted this 1st day of November, 2004.

The next amendment appropriates funding from Fund Balance to cover the unanticipated landfill consultant fees association with the construction of the current cell.

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004-05

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2004-05 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:

Section 1. General Fund Expenditures: Increase: 11-4720 $ 20,000


Increase: 11-4110 (Fund Balance Approp)$ 20,000Adopted this 1st day of November, 204.

The next amendment appropriates additional Bioterrorism Grant Funding for the Health Department.



Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase: 11-5110-5182 $ 74,087


Increase: 11-5100 $ 74,087Total Increase $ 74,087


The next amendment appropriates unspent grant funding from last fiscal year of the Library’s Literacy Grant.



Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase: 11-6110 $ 800.

Total Increase $ 800.Section 2. General Fund Revenues:

Increase: 11-4110 (Fund Balance Approp) $ 800.Total Increase $ 800.


The next amendment appropriates Library Trust Funds for use in the library budget as requested by the Library’s advisory board.




Total Increase: $ 1,500Section 2. General Fund Revenues:

Increase: 11-4110 (Fund Balance Approp) $ 1,500Total Increase: $ 1,500


The last amendment shifts funding from the jail budget to the law enforcement building budget to cover unanticipated costs associated with the replacement of an HVAC unit.



Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Decrease: 11-4320 $ 3,000Increase: 11-4166 $ 3,000

Net Change: $ - 0 –Adopted this 1st day of November, 2004.Vehicle Rotation – Sheriff-Financing Resolution and Budget Amendment: The Board

agreed on September 16, 2003 to adopt a vehicle rotation plan for the Sheriff’s Office in order to properly maintain the fleet. The Sheriff is proposing the acquisition of six vehicles at an estimated cost of $25,000 each.

Resolution Approving the Financing through BB&T: The Resolution authorizes staff to proceed with securing financing for the vehicles at a term of 2.92% for three years with annual payments in arrears.

Budget Amendment: Appropriates the loan proceeds for acquisition of the referenced vehicles.AMENDMENT

Anson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004-05BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2004-05 Budget

Ordinance be amended as follows;Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:

Increase: 11-4310 $ 155,000Total Increase: $ 155,000

Section 2. General Fund Revenues:Increase: 11-4310 (Loan Proceeds) $ 155,000

Total Increase: $ 155,000Adopted this 1st day of November, 2004.

Tax Releases:Vehicle Tax Releases-Nov 04:

Release # Name Year Amount Reason Bill # 15581 Bennett, Linda A 2004 53.28 Proration 406-11315583 BH & JH Corp 2004 43.80 Proration 409-6215582 BH & JH Corp 2004 43.80 Proration 409-6315558 Burris, Steven A. 2004 5.29 Proration 407-19515551 Byrd, Lee R 2004 25.84 Proration 407-20415716 C & G Leasing 2004 538.49 Clerical 407-21015718 C & G Leasing 2004 538.49 Clerical 407-21115717 C & G Leasing 2004 538.49 Clerical 407-21215719 C & G Leasing 2004 538.49 Clerical 407-21315580 Campbell, Heather R 2004 124.48 Proration 408-22215901 Carolina Cartage 2004 28.91 Value 409-25215578 Caudle, Joseph L 2004 25.92 Proration 404-32615738 Caudle, Marty R. 2004 52.04 Value 409-29815900 Chavis, Crystal 2003 109.74 Situs 405-34915560 Davis, Tina M. 2003 1.96 Proration 312-33815579 Diaz, Elsa 2004 38.10 Proration 407-44515674 Faulkner, William C. 2004 9.91 Value 408-52715574 Hamilton, Charles 2004 75.79 Proration 409-62815707 Hardison, Josie 2004 83.66 Situs 407-67015736 Helms, Paige 2004 64.26 Situs 409-687

15735 Hildreth, Truston 2004 27.02 Value 409-71415902 Hill, Jim R. 2004 112.98 Situs 409-83415563 Jefferies, Yvonne W. 2003 9.00 Proration 403-130615576 Johnson, Susan S. 2004 113.02 Proration 402-116915907 Johnson, Virginia 2004 3.35 High Mileage 409-85115741 Jones, Jewell 2004 218.04 Situs 409-85715561 Lefler, Ronald K. 2004 71.73 Proration 408-97515737 McManus, Margaret 2004 35.33 Value 409-113015566 Medly, Brian 2003 63.49 Proration 307-122015908 Mull, Grace H. 2004 11.51 High Mileage 409-119515564 Parker, Walter M. 2004 6.40 Proration 408-127815743 Pate, James T. 2004 64.10 Value 409-125015910 Ratliff, Gracie 2004 34.25 High Mileage 409-134815730 Rushing, James S. 2004 6.37 Situs 406-164415577 Scarborough, Donald P 2004 140.31 Proration 407-156815731 Smith, Patricia 2003 210.83 Situs 311-144915749 Springer Stephanie 2004 5.60 Situs 409-152415909 Springer Stephanie 2004 11.89 Value 409-152415588 Steagall, William 2003 64.72 Proration 312-141915575 Turner, Billy I. 2004 24.21 Value 409-167815568 Vang, Pang Vue 2004 163.00 Proration 408-179015746 Wallace, Lynette 2004 51.54 Value 409-174815565 Warwick, Michael 2004 59.20 Proration 409-1761

$ 4,572.83

Vehicle Tax Adjustments – Nov. 04:15707 Hardison, Josie 2004 9.96 Situs 407-67015736 Helms, Paige 2004 5.54 Situs 409-68715902 Hill, Jim R. 2004 9.74 Situs 409-83415737 Mcmanus, Margaret 2004 62.94 Situs 409-113015749 Springer, Stephanie 2004 1.12 Situs 409-1524

$ 89.30

Vehicle Tax Refunds – Nov. 04:15556 Addison Moore & Son 2004 84.72 Proration 405-1415585 BH & JH Inc. 2004 5.52 Proration 402-16115584 BH & JH Inc. 2004 4.74 Proration 402-9015572 Brandenburg, Jennifer 2003 64.00 Proration 305-14115570 Brewer, Claude Jr 2003 2.76 Proration 403-26515573 C-Cowick 2004 1.26 Proration 408-21915562 Diggs, Tangula A. 2004 107.58 Proration 406-47515553 Firstar Bank North Carolina 2004 47.04 Proration 406-54815559 Fowler, Paul D. 2003 3.72 Proration 402-56915586 Haynes, Cecil E. 2004 5.65 Proration 310-81715571 New Homes by Brewer 2003 2.48 Proration 404-146015569 New Homes by Brewer 2003 45.93 Proration 404-145915587 Simon, Shirley 2003 24.88 Proration 401-115715567 Thomas, Steven D. 2004 12.81 Proration 407-186115555 Wallace, Charles 2003 1.13 Proration 308-184915554 Wallace, Myrlie 2003 7.41 Proration 311-1656

421.63

Property Tax Releases – Nov. 04:15712 Badcock W. S. 2004 104.48 Listing Error 047-57715733 Bob Swan Co. 2004 54.85 Billing Error 046-DF2522015732 Bob Swan Co. 2004 134.93 Billing Error 046-DF25219

15744 Carolina Surgical 2003 392.22 Double Billed 037-AL5117915713 Chappel, Mike 2003 1,629.75 Billing Error 032-298415715 Chewning, Ronnie 2004 224.77 Value 045-307715739 Davis Mechanical 2004 239.98 Double Billed 042-410115726 Dollente, Alex 2004 17.83 Billing Error 047-453415747 Goodwin, Marvin 2004 10.40 Value 047-610715745 Heavener, Dossie Jr. 2004 17.58 Billing Error 042-694315714 Hildreth, John P. Jr. 2004 2,272.17 Value 043-728215705 Howard Lisk 2004 41,872.97 Value 044-NC2611215706 Howard Lisk 2004 2,392.74 Value 044-NC2514515709 Huntley, Julie 2004 154.98 Billing Error 047-810915723 Johnson, Houston Jr 2004 505.98 Double Billed 046-872415904 Melton, Richard 2004 13.10 Billing Error 047-1197415906 Melton, Richard 2004 11.64 Billing Error 047-1197515905 Melton, Richard 2003 14.38 Billing Error 037-429515903 Melton, Richard 2003 15.80 Billing Error 037-1189715704 Piedmont Hardwood Lumber 2004 1,933.25 Deferred Error 041-1332715729 Ratliff, Charles 2004 15.79 Billing Error 047-1395115911 Red Star Service 2004 29.10 Billing Error 047-1416015711 Richmond Amusements 2004 28.68 Billing Error 045-1428915710 Richmond Amusements 2004 37.10 Billing Error 046-1429015748 Seigler, William 2004 1.31 Billing Error 047-1493915720 Stegall, Cecil 2004 619.81 Billing Error 044-1588215699 Treadaway, Elizabeth 2004 235.00 Billing Error 044-1706115722 Tucker, Kenneth 2004 235.12 Value 043-1719315740 United Carolina Bank 2004 112.24 Listing Error 041-17415

53,327.95

Property Tax Refunds – Nov. 04:15727 Dollente, Alex 2002 17.74 Billing Error 027-443315728 Dollente, Alex 2003 16.90 Billing Error 037-448015725 Johnston, Houston Jr. 2003 426.22 Double Billed 036-863915724 Johnston, Houston Jr 2002 426.22 Double Billed 026-850115708 Lee James H & Betty 2004 142.70 Billing Error 047-964615912 Ockenhouse, Gernerd 2004 373.51 Sr. Exemption 047-12758

1,403.29

Architectural Services Agreement with Robert Salisbury, PA-Little Park Pool Project: This is a not to exceed ($20,000) architectural contract for the design and integration of a bubble and new locker facility at the Little Park pool. The project is funded through a PARTF Grant and private funding. (Said Contract is on file in the County Manager’s office and by reference made a part of these minutes.)

North Carolina Forestry Service Funding Agreement: This is the annual agreement between the county and the North Carolina Forestry Service to cooperatively provide for the operation of this fiscal year. The final budget has been revised as follows:

Anson County share of budget at 40% $ 70,000North Carolina State share of budget at 60% $ 105,000

Total budget 2004-05 $ 175,000(Said contract is on file in the County Manager’s office and by reference made a part of these minutes).

IBM Lease Agreement-Mainframe Computer: This is the lease agreement for a new mainframe IBM system. The system is replaced every few years and the present lease expired December 2004. The new lease will provide a more powerful computer at a less expensive price. The agreement carried a term of three years from December 2004 until December 2007 with a 30% decrease to a monthly cost of $1,031.00. (Said Agreement in on file in the County Manager’s office and by reference made a part of these minutes)

Economic Development Initiative-State Development Zone Application: This will authorize staff to pursue the designation of the eligible areas of the county as a State Development Zone. Such

designation will allow business expansion and creation to take advantage of tax credits that are reserved for tier one counties. It is possible that all of the proposed certified sites and many existing businesses will be eligible for these tax credits during the calendar year of 2005.

Chairman Hildreth called for a short break.

After the break, the next discussion was Administrative Matters:Value Appeal-Nasseem N. Chaudhry: County Manager Wease presented a

handout of information to each Board member present. Chairman Hildreth explained that Mr. Chaudhry purchased a piece of property with anticipation of it being a business venture and after purchasing said property, he realized that some of the equipment on site would not pass inspection which cause a major expenditure. Chairman Hildreth noted there is also a restaurant facility with the business and Mr. Chaudhry has made several attempts to lease the restaurant but they have not realized enough revenue to keep tenants. Chairman Hildreth stated that the Board took no action on this matter when first presented but rather asked the Assessor, Mr. Vance, to look into alternate ways of establishing the value of the property. Mr. Vance stated that he looked at the income approach to appraising, which is not typically used in Anson County, using information provided by Mr. Chaudhry. Mr. Vance presented two different scenarios, the first being the way it should be and the second is actual income, with the second way being less than the first. County Manager Wease explained that after looking at all potential incoming producing parts of the business, we multiplied that by a multiplier for the value of the facility giving a figure of $223,600. County Manager Wease noted that in number two, they take the same incoming producing value of $27,000 and take into consideration an effective gross income calculation for a number more reflective of what is happening on this property. County Manager Wease noted that this produces a value of $89,200. County Manager Wease noted that the county has the real estate valued at $141,000. Mr. Vance stated that businesses experience both good and bad times and the value he places on property must stand until the next revaluation. Commissioner Sims voiced that since this business was built and operated it has been in a continual change of ownership and feels no one has done well operating out of this location. Chairman Hildreth noted this was a third approach based on income generated that is not typically used in the county. Commissioner Sims stated that the flip side is if the gentlemen goes out of business, we lose a certain amount of tax value. Commissioner Lear referred to the fact that we don’t know if we evaluated the tanks or not with Mr. Vance noting he cannot find where we had placed a prior value on the tanks and they are not included in the $141,000 value. Chairman Hildreth asked what Board members would do if Mr. Harold Smith or Blake Hildreth came before them saying they had had a bad year and needed their taxes reduced. Commissioner Sims felt that the tanks were a factor in the issue. County Manager Wease explained that we had a discovery because the tanks were not listed and we issued a discovery bill on them that went backwards in time. Commissioner Sims asked if the discovery bill was a portion of the charge with Mr. Vance answering yes. Commissioner Sims felt we had discovered something that was useless with Mr. Vance stating that we discovered the new tanks and that as best we can tell, the old tanks were never in the tax base. Commissioner Sims was in favor of some relief as long as it would be equitable and allow the Board to face others. Chairman Hildreth voiced that as hard as it is, the Board can’t help

underwrite a bad business decision. After much discussion, motion by Vice Chair Woodburn, seconded by Commissioner Jones, to accept the recommendation from the Assessor and deny the request. Motion carried unanimously.

Contract for Engineering Services-Raw Water Intake-Hobbs Upchurch and Associates: Commissioner Jones asked to be excused from voting on this matter as he has a step-daughter that was recently employed by Hobbs Upchurch but noted he would like to participate in debate of the matter. Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to excuse Commissioner Jones from voting. Motion carried unanimously. County Manager Wease noted the Contract in the Agenda packets outlines the scope of services for the project. County Manager Wease pointed out the following categories for these services:

Coordination, Planning and Grantsmanship $ 29,840.00Site Surveys $ 9,960.00Environmental Studies, Permits, EA $ 79,040.00Detailed Design $143,820.00Construction Management $166,800.00

County Manager Wease noted these represent the bulk of the cost of the contract in the amount $429,460.00, which will be paid in accordance with progress on the project. County Manager Wease noted there was potential for additional cost on items not included in the engineering services such as permitting fees to construct, geotechnical investigation and reports, construction stakeout and testing during construction. County Manager Wease outlined that most of the work over the next six to eight months will focus on the environmental study and detail design with hopes that construction will begin next June, which is estimated to take 270 days. County Manager Wease introduced Joe McGougan, principal Engineer for the project and Fred Hobbs, owner of the company, who were present to answer any questions. County Manager Wease noted the contract will require an additional $75,000 this Fiscal Year and the budget amendment will need to be adopted in conjunction with the Contract. Chairman Hildreth noted that Hobbs Upchurch would be the technical oversight agency for construction management throughout the process. Chairman Hildreth asked if they would also have oversight on any of the outside services or would that be a separate contract with County Manager Wease answering they would coordinate and review the reports and make recommendation for payment. Commissioner Sims asked who and how we negotiated the amount of the contract with County Manager Wease answering that he worked directly with Joe McGougan. Commissioner Sims, noting that he understands the environmental condition, asked Mr. McGougan if generally speaking, Architects pay is 6% or lower on a project. Commissioner Sims then stated that when he adds things together he gets 10%. Commissioner Sims then asked Mr. McGougan the amount of money Ms. Beck would be seeking for the project with Mr. McGougan answering they are looking at all funding sources and talking with Progress Energy to find funds for the project. Commissioner Sims stated that he feels the contract price looks high and he needs to have some idea of how much money they have in mind that will be available to us. Ms. Beck stated that she would try for 2.2 million dollars in STAG grant money and the county would finance through a low interest loan 1.7 million. Ms. Beck noted that timing on these funds is critical. Mr. Hobbs pointed out that stag grant funds were political as they were congressional appropriations from the EPA region and the

Congressman or Senator needs to make a request for the money. Mr. Hobbs noted that the request would either be accepted or denied based on the appropriations process in Washington. Mr. Hobbs explained that these grant funds do not favor low wealth counties over high wealth counties. Commissioner Sims asked if we needed to contact Representative Hayes and Senator Purcell with Mr. Hobbs answering yes. Commissioner Sims was of the opinion that the contract fee was a little high but would agree to the fee if we can get several million dollars by the help of Hobbs Upchurch. Mr. Hobbs stated that his company does not discount rates as they are predicated on what they pay their employees plus overhead and a reasonable profit. Chairman Hildreth pointed out that the rates in the contract were street rates with no volume consideration. Vice Chair Woodburn, referring to the price for environmental studies, voiced that this seems open ended and asked if any controls were in place. Mr. McGougan answered that they did this so the Board would see exactly what the EA was costing them in hopes to be transparent. After much discussion, motion by Commissioner Sims, seconded by Commissioner Lear, that we offer, since there are no volume discounts allowed or any other adjustments to be made, and I think that we are dealing with a very efficient company and I think Mary Beck is a tremendous asset, having said all that, instead of $429,400, I move that we offer Hobbs Upchurch $400,000 with all other parts of the contract to remain intact for this job. Motion carried unanimously. (Commissioner Jones was excused from voting on this matter.)

Mr. Hobbs offered that they were not in the business of negotiating as he tried to provide a fair and competitive fee, which is not inflated to negotiate. Mr. Hobbs had voiced a concern for the environmental assessment and shared with Board members that he felt the design fee, as presented, was too cheap. Mr. Hobbs offered that the design is less than 3% which is less than one-half the market rate. Mr. Hobbs asked the Board to honor the contract as presented. Commissioner Sims agreed that the design cost was economical. Chairman Hildreth noted that this did not eliminate the contract modifications and provisions paragraph. Mr. Hobbs was of the opinion the Board had gotten a discount by Mr. McGougan giving all the man-hours for the project. Mr. McGougan voiced that he did not understand during any discussions that we were looking for a discount and feels they have been very efficient on their design. Commissioner Sims was of the understanding that our representatives would not be simply receptive to a price but that it would be a negotiable price as he thought the motion was to negotiate a price and not just accept a price. Mr. McGougan answered that he did this with Mr. Gulledge and Mr. Wease. Commissioner Sims asked Mr. McGougan if the number he presented to Mr. Wease and Mr. Gulledge changed any with Mr. McGougan answering that they discussed the issues with all the numbers and came to a consensus. Mr. McGougan highlighted that he does not inflate project costs as he has constant battles with Mr. Hobbs on his numbers. Commissioner Sims voiced that he understands that when the three met, there was a number and it was presented and accepted and there was no back and forth. Mr. McGougan offered that the number was thoroughly explained and justified and he was not asked to cut it. Mr. Hobbs offered that he would talk with County Manager Wease in the next couple of days but again stated that in twenty some years, he had never done this before. County Manager Wease noted that he does not recommend cutting as they found in the Airport

project that having a project Manager on site during the course saved us hundreds of thousands of dollars. Commissioner Sims offered that the motion was never to change any other components of the contract. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion that it will be hard to explain this to the citizens. County Manager Wease explained that the project was conceived in the late 60’s when the plant was built but it was never developed or built. Commissioner Sims feels special consideration should be given us as we did not create this situation. Commissioner Lear feels we need to get all the folks that can help us around the table as soon as we can. Mr. Gulledge offered that he and Mr. McGougan went through all the scenarios on how we could get to this water and he feels comfortable with the contract and this company and believes we will have paid the best price possible.

Mr. Gulledge asked about the budget amendment for the project with Chairman Hildreth of the opinion it could be approved according to the motion. Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Jones, to approve the amendment. Motion carried unanimously.



Section 15. Water Fund Expenditures:Increase: Filtration $ 75,000

Total Increase $ 75,000Section 16. Water Fund Revenues:

Increase: Fund Balance Appropriated $ 75,000Total Increase $ 75,000


Planning Board Requests: Informal Policy: Mr. Sikes, Planning Board Chairman, appeared asking Board members to give them an opportunity to go through and review properties listed on highways 52 and 74 as Heavy Industrial and Light Industrial and make changes where necessary. Mr. Sikes asked the Board to adopt an informal policy to suspend new re-zonings in this area until the entire scope of county zoning can be re-examined and adjusted where appropriate. Mr. Sikes then asked the Board for permission to use $3,000 of the funds appropriate for codification for consulting services associated with the request. Commissioner Jones feels we can do our basic codification and then be ready when this issue is complete. Mr. Sikes offered that the person they want to hire has worked with Stanly County and others and he is willing to write our Ordinances for less than Carolina COG in Fayetteville. Mr. Sikes stated that the cost will run between $2500 and $3,000. County Manager Wease noted they are only suggesting that we delay codification by the time it would take to draft and adopt these Ordinances, which means we would begin in the Spring rather than January. Mr. Sikes agreed to the need to have Ordinances codified but feels it important to have this done prior to beginning codification. Commissioner Jones asked if this person completed the Ordinance for Stanly County with Mr. Sikes stating that he was of that understanding. County Manager Wease offered that the young man works in the planning department in Stanly County and he feels comfortable hiring this person. County Manager Wease offered that we’ve asked the Planning Board to take zoning

countywide and help us develop the plan and they are simply asking for time to compare the Land Use Plan to what we have on the zoning map, hear from the folks wanting to develop their property in ways that is inconsistent with the zoning while updating the Ordinance. County Manager Wease stated this would give us a base to work from when we do zoning for the county. Commissioner Jones voiced that he does not want this to hold up the basic codification project and he will be disappointed if six months from now he finds that it did. Commissioner Sims asked that they work on highway 52 first as it seems to be the one with the most flexibility. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, that the Board of Commissioners adopt a policy to suspend new re-zoning until the entire scope of county zoning is re-examined by the Zoning Board and adjustments recommended to the Commission where appropriate and that this project be completed up to 12 months. Motion carried unanimously. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, that $3,000 be allotted from the codification funding to provide for consulting services associated with updating of the Zoning Ordinance and codification and that this be done up to 12 months. Motion carried unanimously.

Retiree Health Insurance Policy: James Bennett, Assistant County Manager, spoke to the Board on the supplemental plan through Bankers Life. Mr. Bennett noted the Board voted for us to present to the retirees an option, which was chosen to be Bankers Life. Commissioner Sims commented that it was to be presented and discussed with and he refers to feedback from the retirees. Mr. Bennett stated that we have between nine and twelve retirees with the old Blue Cross Blue Shield supplemental policy and because of age and various other factors, were not a part of the twenty-one retirees. Mr. Bennett explained that representatives of Bankers Life talked with all retirees that attended the meeting and of the twenty-one at the meeting, all have signed with Banker’s Life with the exception of one that was not in attendance but will be signing soon. Mr. Scott Headley, Bankers Life representative was present to answer any questions. Commissioner Sims wanted to make sure we would not be in the same situation we’ve been in with County Manager Wease answering that would be addressed in the policy. Commissioner Lear asked if those on the BCBS policy would be required to change with Mr. Bennett answering no. Mr. Headley stated that Bankers Life offers personal accountability and they are trying to make sure the retirees will be positioned so when Medicare part D comes inline, they can take advantage of it. Marion Ratliff noted that he and a few others were not involved with the Medicare supplement but thinks some present are involved and asked for the opportunity for them to respond. County Manager Wease noted that this was the opportunity for the Board to stop the moving forward with Bankers Life and putting these folks on the supplemental plan. Commissioner Jones does not understand how the plan dovetails into Medicare. County Manager Wease explained that when you become Medicare eligible, Medicare is the first payer and the supplemental policy covers the gap. Gloria Shumaker was of the understanding that this was being signed in order to get medical records checked out and was not a binding application and she could change her mind anytime within thirty days. Mr. Headley stated that she had not done anything that could not be undone. County Manager Wease explained that they are recommending Bankers Life and the implementation of a supplemental policy for all retirees that are

Medicare eligible. County Manager Wease noted the policy has been presented to all eligible retirees and was of the understanding that the retirees are comfortable with the plan and want to pursue it. Ms. Shumaker was of the understanding that all retirees have to qualify for the policy. County Manager Wease noted that the objective is not to leave out any retiree and if there is some barrier between the retiree and the supplemental policy, it will have to be addressed but the retiree will be allowed to continue with the group program. Mr. Ratliff asked if a person eligible for Medicare did not qualify for Bankers Life or any other company, would they still remain with the current health insurance coverage. County Manager Wease noted that his understanding with the Board is that we are going to help provide the retirees health insurance and if an individual is determined ineligible for a supplemental policy for Medicare, the county and this Board will work to help that person. County Manager Wease did note that the quote received from Bankers Life was based on all retirees signing for the policy as a group which means the group qualifies and not the individual. County Manager Wease recommended to the Board that they adopt a motion that allows the county staff to move forward with signing up all the eligible and willing participants for the Medicare supplemental plan. Ms. Dot Huntley felt that the cost of the prescription drug card needed to be included. Mr. Headley felt that Ms. Huntley was concerned about Medicare part D, which comes on line in 2006. Mr. Headley explained that unless the income level was below the threshold, there would be a $35.00 monthly premium to Medicare for Part D which will pay, after the deductible, one-half of prescriptions up to a limit and feels she is asking the Board to pay this premium. County Manager Wease explained that retirees that retired after 1992, have a cap of $200 contributed to their health insurance program of choice. County Manager Wease stated that they are recommending that everyone go to the supplemental plan because it is less expensive for all involved and to the extent that it is less than $200 and if the $35.00 in addition to that is still less than the $200, the policy will cover. Ms. Huntley felt that the cost of the card will increase each year and wanted assurance from the Board that the county will pay for the card. County Manager Wease noted that he is recommending to the Board that we attach a CPI to the monthly premium so it is adjusted each year by the consumer price index. County Manager Wease noted that would be subject to Board discussion every budget cycle but does not feel anyone can accurately predict what the cost will be years from now. Ms. Huntley voiced that she does not understand what 1992-1993 has to do with insurance as she cannot find any minutes that mention the $100 cap. Ms. Huntley noted that they were told in 1985 that they would have 100% coverage and they don’t have it. Ms. Huntley was of the opinion that unless the Board had minutes to back it up, she does not see how they can do this to retirees. Ms. Huntley voiced concern for being approved for Bankers Life based on current health conditions. Ms. Huntley offered that Mr. Headley presented a good policy but wants to know that the Board will pay for the prescription drug card. Ms. Huntley mentioned that the Board is paying for insurance for other retirees and she would like to have her money back that she’s paid for the last ten years. Ms. Huntley asked the Board to just be fair. Bunk Hill stated that she would not be eligible for Medicare for four and one-half years. Ms. Hill noted that she just retired after twenty-eight years of service and was hired with the understanding that insurance would be provided upon

retirement. Ms. Hill noted that the county is paying the entire amount for those that retired prior to 1992.

County Manager Wease noted that the policy is presented to move forward and does not address anything in the past. County Manager Wease stated that the program recommends that on an annual basis, we have folks sign up for their respective coverage and if one year they waive coverage, it would not exclude them from eligibility the following year. County Manager Wease noted that in determining membership years of service, he used the same formula used by the North Carolina Local Government Employees Retirement System for early, full and disability retirement and outlines how the years of service and the eligibility criteria translates into benefits from the county. County Manager Wease explained that the group that has already retired is called the retirees and they are separated into two sub groups with a line being drawn at June 1992. County Manager Wease noted the reason for this is because that is the date on which the Board sitting at the table at that time, adopted the Personnel Ordinance which put a cap on the county’s contribution toward retirees health insurance. County Manager Wease explained that prior to July 2004, the county paid $100 and then last year the Board approved $105 being paid towards all retirees health insurance. County Manager Wease noted discussions were had about at what point is there liability that was created by the county when the person retired that was promised full coverage, as was the case in 1983 when that was done by a simple motion. County Manager Wease noted that in 1992, he assumes the Board saw cost rising and capped their liability at $100 a month. Commissioner Sims asked if they could have done this retroactively with County Manager Wease feeling they could not and does not think they did. County Manager Wease noted that from 1992, from a liability standpoint and in talking with Dianne Juffras of the IOG, he thinks the county should be liable for the full cost of health insurance for those retiring prior to June 1992 since that was the policy in place when they retired. County Manager Wease noted that health insurance coverage ends when they become Medicare eligible and they move to the supplemental policy. County Manager Wease noted that for those retiring after 1992 when the new policy was adopted and incorporated into the Ordinance, there was a monetary cap set at $100 which did not state monthly but was interpreted in that way. County Manager Wease noted that the retirees cost was the balance of the premium and coverage would end when the retiree becomes Medicare eligible and the county will pay up to the maximum employers cost of $200 towards that policy. County Manager Wease noted that this handles those that have already retired and is consistent with the policy in the Personnel Ordinance. County Manager Wease noted that the next part deals with those employees hired before today and places them in categories by years of service. County Manager Wease noted that those retiring with reduced services, which is a minimum age of 65 and a minimum of 10 years of service, the max employer cost would be $100 with the retiree paying the balance and then going to a supplemental policy with the same rules. County Manager Wease noted that the contribution goes up to $200 with 20-24.99 years of service, $250 with 25 to 29.99 years of service and up to $300 with thirty years or more of service. County Manager Wease noted that the next layer was those hired after today with the rule being that the county does not start to contribute until you’ve work for twenty years and they will then contribute $200 for 20-

24.99 years of service, $250 for 25 to 29.99 years of service and $300 for thirty years and up. County Manager Wease noted that the county would not do a supplemental policy for new hires in order to limit the county’s liability to those that were promised insurance. County Manager Wease explained that the max employer cost would be subject to budgetary appropriations each year and subject to whatever the premium is that year and that it would be adjusted each year by the CPI on April 1. County Manager Wease noted that those obtaining their own policy would be required to furnish the county proof of coverage. County Manager Wease noted that a retiree’s spouse who was enrolled in the plan prior to the retirement date might continue in the plan at the retiree’s spouses expense until the spouse becomes Medicare eligible. County Manager Wease noted that spouses of deceased retirees lose their privilege to remain insured under the county policy upon remarriage and/or Medicare eligible. County Manager Wease noted that dependents may be covered for as long as the insurance program recognizes their dependency, subject to all applicable cobra, federal and state laws. County Manager Wease noted that all premiums are due the first of each month and any person who is over forty-five days delinquent shall receive a notice of premiums owed. If the delinquent payment is not received thirty days from notice, the insured person will be terminated and shall not be eligible for reinstatement. County Manager Wease noted that if adopted, the effective date should be November 1, 2004. Ms. Westbrook noted that she understood that she would be paid the $200 and could make a choice on the county insurance and after doing her own research, had found a plan better suited for her that fit in the $200 cost factor. Ms. Westbrook stated that she had always felt that the county could have had better coverage and when she came to work for the county was not given the option of choosing as all employees had to be under the county plan. Mr. Ratliff offered congratulations to Chairman Hildreth for his service to the Board. Mr. Ratliff stated that he can’t help getting back to the original reason for coming before the Board which is when we came to work for Anson County we were told that our insurance premiums would be paid for. Mr. Ratliff noted several people that will be retiring, some sooner than later, were told the same thing such as your Clerk to the Board Bonnie Huntley, Jan Benton, Bernice Bennett, Sheriff Tommy Allen, Wanda Chappell and Diane and Barbara at the Library who have close to thirty years of service. Mr. Ratliff voiced appreciation for the cap of $200 but noted that the Board also said that this would be addressed in the future and maybe that is what is being done now as far as catching up those still on the group insurance and not Medicare. Mr. Ratliff does not feel the CPI each year will help them catch up, especially if insurance cost go up. Mr. Ratliff noted that there are some of them that are asking if there could be more consideration of help in the future until they get to the Medicare plan other than the CPI. Commissioner Sims felt that the CPI would be far less than the rising cost of health insurance. Mr. Ratliff noted that under the proposed plan, someone retiring with thirty years or more of service would be in a better position than some of the present retirees are in now. Commissioner Jones asked Mr. Ratliff the difference between what the county was paying him and his monthly premium with Mr. Ratliff answering that he is paying $181 after the $200 and anyone on the regular health plan is paying approximately $181. Ms. Huntley was of the opinion that the $100 was not suppose to be a cap since there is no back up for it and when you only have three years to work before retirement, you are not going to change jobs. Mr. Ratliff noted that there

has been a problem finding minutes that say a $100 cap but policy has been dictated since 1992 when the Personnel Ordinance was adopted. Commissioner Sims felt that back in 1992 the $100 probably nearly covered the cost. Commissioner Sims voiced concern that the Board will get back in the same groove of a fixed amount that will become very rapidly antiquated. Commissioner Sims commended the County Manager for what he has presented but feels some folks will get lost in the crowd. Commissioner Sims was of the opinion that the county cannot come up with the difference all of a sudden but feels they should do something incrementally to do what we promised and what the County Manager has allowed for is the CPI which is a start but is not large enough. Commissioner Sims feels there may be only two categories, which are those up to today and all the people from today forward. Mr. Ratliff assumes that those going to work after 1992 were never told anything about having their insurance premium paid upon retirement and does not know the breaking point from pre-92 on. Commissioner Sims feels there are two choices with one being to try to incrementally get back to what we promised with the other being something we can’t afford. Commissioner Sims felt this was a good start and his only question to Marion, Jan and Bonnie and all those fixing to retire, is won’t $200 plus the CPI be antiquated and in a few years they will be right back where the $100 business was. County Manager Wease noted that it depends on what category they fall into. Commissioner Sims voiced that this was a flexible Board and they are responding to different people and if they don’t have something in writing then they are in bad shape. Commissioner Jones feels that any future board could do anything except go under the CPI. County Manager Wease feels you can’t develop a policy that will incorporate every potential variable that might ever happen and when situations come along that were not envisioned when the policy was written, it has to be revisited to make sure you are fair to everyone. Commissioner Jones asked the number of retirees in the category from June 1992 to November 2004 with Mr. Bennett answering roughly 23. Commissioner Sims asked the possibility of adding another statement that the Board under budgetary constraints will try to incrementally increase the maximum amount to the extent possible each year. County Manager Wease noted that is already in there. Commissioner Sims voiced concern for the CPI with County Manager Wease feeling that was a baseline. Commissioner Lear was of the opinion that this was the framework with which to begin. Ms. Shumaker offered that she is satisfied with the supplemental policy but feels that Ms. Hill and Mr. Ratliff should have their insurance paid for the same as hers and those retiring before 1992. Ms. Shumaker feels they are being discriminated against. Ms. Shumaker also stated that she did not realize there were so many different insurance policies nor did she realize that some received the $200 and their insurance cost was $150 and they could do whatever they wanted with the $50. Ms. Shumaker also stated that she had been told since she retired that if she comes out from under the county policy that she cannot return. Several other retirees in the audience noted they were told the same thing. Mr. Bennett noted that as a member of a group, if the retiree comes out from the group, the company could require them to submit to a physical to return. Ms. Shumaker stated that Mr. Bennett told them about two years ago that if they came out from under the county policy and went under another insurance, that they could not come back under the county policy. Commissioner Sims asked what would happen if instead of the CPI, the Board increases the insurance by the percentage that our health insurance

goes up. Mr. Bennett noted that last year we were paying $224 for single coverage and this year it went to $385 per month. Chairman Hildreth noted that the county has a high percentage of prescription use. Ms. Huntley asked the Board if they would pay for the prescription drug card for life for the retirees. County Manager Wease offered that the county will contribute $200 a month with adjustments each year and if the policy happens to be $130 and the drug card is $35 that it would be his interpretation that she would be reimbursed the $165 since it is less than the $200. Mr. Headley felt this was separate from the escalating health care prices we have going on in our nation today. Mr. Headley noted that the proposal would work in her circumstance. After much discussion, motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, that the Board approve the staff moving forward with signing up those retirees who are eligible and willing to the supplemental policy with Bankers Life. Motion carried unanimously.

Chairman Hildreth explained that if the individual was eligible for the Medicare supplement, the county would pay up to $200 and if the card was included in the $200 it would be considered a part of the supplemental insurance. Ms. Gatewood asked if the card exceeded the $200 would the county still pay with Chairman Hildreth answering that $200 is the cap. Ms. Huntley then asked if the group would be reimbursed back to July when the policy started with Chairman Hildreth feeling the Board was not in a position to answer that at this point. Ms. Shumaker voiced that those that retired prior to 1992 were reimbursed all their premiums with County Manager Wease asking if she was talking about July and August 2004. Ms. Shumaker answered yes and they were reimbursed what they had paid with County Manager Wease answering that the Board made that decision in the budget process and it was retroactive to July 1. Ms. Shumaker asked if theirs would be retroactive to July 1 with County Manager Wease answering everyone would get the $200 cap back to July 1. Ms. Shumaker noted that she paid $285 in July and August and now they are paying $181, asking again if they would be reimbursed. County Manager Wease answered that they should get the equivalent of a $200 contribution starting in July. Mr. Ratliff asked if the reason for returning premiums to those retiring prior to 1992 was because the county pays all their insurance with County Manager Wease answering that they all were to get the equivalent of $200 starting in July. Chairman Hildreth then stated that the county would need to reimburse this group that portion of the two months, up to the $200 cap. Rita James, Data Processing Manager, explained that the way that worked was the retirees that retired prior to 1992, because the Board voted that as of July 1 their premium would be paid in full, were refunded their premium. Ms. James noted that the retirees that did not pay the 100%, we applied the credit back to July to their next months premium. Ms. Shumaker voiced that they paid for July, August, October and November. County Manager Wease explained that the reason they did not pay in September was because that was the $200 credit for July and August. County Manager Wease noted that in October they paid the difference between the $200 contribution and the total bill. County Manager Wease offered to talk individually with anyone wishing to do so at a later date. Ms. Shumaker was of the opinion it should be discussed before the Board, as the Manager did not have the authority to say they will pay it. Ms. Huntley then asked again if they had minutes from 1992 with County Manager Wease answering that

the policy in 1992 went before the Board. Ms. Huntley again asked if there were minutes with County Manager Wease answering there was policy.

Chairman Hildreth then referred to the proposal submitted by the County Manager, which is an amendment to the Personnel Ordinance that would become effective today and become a part of the Ordinance. Commissioner Sims asked if there was some way to separate the situation of the twenty some retirees to have someone discuss how we might assist them with County Manager Wease answering that circumstances are different and there are variables that the county cannot control. County Manager Wease noted that we are subject to the parameters adopted with the budget with what we can do. Commissioner Sims asked the Manager if he could meet with Mr. Ratliff and a couple more to discuss what might be done forward so the Board could be preparing for that next June. County Manager Wease stated that the offer stands to meet with anyone. Motion by Commissioner Lear that we adopt this proposal as a baseline framework that can be adapted in anyway from this point on, which might be beneficial to our employees past and present. Motion seconded by Commissioner Jones. Chairman Hildreth noted that if passed, it would become a part of the Personnel Ordinance. Commissioner Jones felt that the only two issues were to a way to do for these folks that were not supposed to pay any cost for insurance and Dot’s card. Commissioner Jones voiced that he hopes the County Manager and Assistant Manager will figure out how much money it would cost us to get to a zero point and it might take two or three years, but he feels the Board and the people of the county have a duty to keep our word. Motion carried unanimously.

Commissioner Lear asked to be excused from the remainder of the meeting. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to excuse Commissioner Lear from the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Economic Development Grant Re-allocation-Rural Center Grant for Sewer Project at Triangle Brick: County Manager Wease stated that we had a One Million Dollar Grant and a $400,000 grant that was to be used for the sewer project for Elite Foods. County Manager Wease stated that the project is no longer under consideration and we have to de-obligate the One Million-Dollar grant and we’ve also talked with the Rural Center about the $400,000. County Manager Wease noted that Triangle Brick has a project underway that will create jobs and he feels we are eligible to take the $400,000 grant and use it to extend the gravity sewer portion at Triangle Brick to the back portion of their property. County Manager Wease noted this would allow their new building to come on line and the surrounding properties would also have available gravity sewer for future development. County Manager Wease noted this would require a 10% county match, same as the original project. County Manager Wease explained that the county had committed $100,000 to the Elite Foods project and he is proposing to use $40,000 of that contribution to go with the $400,000 from the Rural Center Elite Foods project and transfer to the Triangle Brick project. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to approve. Chairman Hildreth asked what this would do in terms of the county recapping any expenses from the Elite Foods Project. County Manager Wease stated that this would necessitate that it happens as

we are talking about using the money that we are attempting to recoup from Elite Foods. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion the Board was not talking about real money as he feels we will never get our money back for the $400,000. County Manager Wease stated that a letter has been written to Mr. Cuddy requesting repayment by the end of the calendar year. Commissioner Jones feels this matter needs to be extended to January in order to see if any of the money is repaid. County Manager Wease explained that it was urgent to move on the issue in order to take advantage of the grant. County Manager Wease voiced that one option would be to approve this contingent upon repayment of the funds. County Manager Wease noted that they are only asking for the authority to discuss the matter with Triangle Brick and it would be contingent upon them accepting. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, that we take $40,000 from the $400,000 grant for Elite Foods and apply it to Triangle Brick contingent upon Elite Foods repaying the County of Anson $100,000 on or before December 31, 2004 for the Elite Foods Project. Motion carried unanimously.

Contract Negotiation with Wireless Carrier: Chairman Hildreth noted that the Manager is asking for the authority to negotiate with a wireless carrier who wants to install an antenna on the Burnsville water tank. Motion by Commissioner Sims, seconded by Commissioner Jones, to approve. Motion carried unanimously.

Appointments:Anson County Board of Health: Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by

Commissioner Sims, that we appoint Dr. Charles Cashier as the Dentist on the Board of Health. Motion carried unanimously.

Anson County Tourism Development Authority: Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to appoint Dave Smith to the Tourism Board. Motion carried unanimously.

Council on Aging: Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, to appoint Mrs. Annie Owens, Mrs. Angela Deluca and Catherine Bennett to the Council on Aging Advisory Council. Motion carried unanimously.

Chairman Hildreth noted that Commissioner Lear had two items under Commissioner Concerns on tax rate and budget and he has been excused and Commissioner Streater asked that his item be carried over to the next meeting. Commissioner Sims voiced that he feels that Chairman Hildreth has served in an honorable fashion as Chairman of this Board, has great intellect and organization and he has had to apply these in very difficult environments at times and he wanted to say thank you. Chairman Hildreth noted it had been his pleasure and privilege to serve.

Chairman Hildreth noted the next meeting was scheduled for December 13 which is the meeting that has traditionally been the organizational meeting. Chairman Hildreth felt this was reasonably late in the month and according to the guidelines, it says that in even numbered years, the Board shall hold an organizational meeting at its regular

meeting place at 10:00 A.M. on the first Monday in December of each even numbered year. The Agenda for this organizational meeting shall be limited to the induction of newly elected members of the board of county commissioners and other elected county officials and organization of the board for the ensuing year. The organizational meeting shall be convened and concluded before the regular December meeting is convened. The Clerk to the board of commissioners shall call the meeting to order and shall preside until a chair is elected. If they have not already been sworn and inducted into office, the newly elected members of the board shall take and subscribe the oath of office as the first order of business. As a second order, the board shall elect a chair and vice-chair from among its members. As a third order, the board shall approve the bonds of the sheriff and/or the coroner, and the register of deeds and induct them and any other newly elected county official into office. As the fourth and firth orders of business, the board may appoint a clerk and an attorney. Chairman Hildreth offered that he felt the Board would be in better stead if they would hold their organizational meeting according to the recommended guidelines. Commissioner Jones asked what date that would be with Chairman Hildreth answering December 6. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, that we have our organizational meeting on December 6 at 6:00 P.M. in the Anson County Courthouse and that after following the organizational guidelines that we should recess and reopen to continue with business. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to go into closed session for personnel pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6) to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, condition of appointment of a public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session, motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to go out of closed session. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Vice Chair Woodburn, that Ms. Janine Rywak, the Cooperative Extension Director’s salary be increased by the sum of $4,000, facilitated by an amendment to the Anson County Memorandum of Understanding with North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service wherein our participation in the salaries will increase from 40 to 42.86%. Commissioner Sims stated that almost all of this $4,000 would come from the State with County Manager Wease answering no. County Manager Wease explained that it would all come from the county and is no additional money as it is budgeted funding. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted;

Bonnie M. Huntley, CMCClerk to the Board

Meeting time: 5-hr. 15 min.

file · web viewconvened for their regular monthly meeting on monday, november 1, 2004 at 6:00 p.m....

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