BURNSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA Regular Meting-Thursday, June 6, 2024, 6pm Burnsville Town Hall  1. Adoption of Agenda 2. Public Comment 3. Consideration of Minutes 4. Public Hearings 5. Presentations  a, Regular meeting held on May 2, 2024 b. Special Meeting held on May 30, 2024  a. Proposed text amendment for Zoning Ordinance Section 1106, Board of Adjustment  6. Manager's Update Heather Hockaday a. Project updates  Meadow Road Culvert 1. Notice to Award ii. Lead Service Line 1. High Country COG. Agreement 2. RFQs Project  b. De-Obligation of the following loan funds from DWI for repairs to the WTP  I. H-SRP-D-17-0095 DWSRPI Burnsville Water Treatment Plant Improvement ii. 2022/ DWSRFI Burnsville Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project  C. - Update on SDF 6/11 public hearing d. - SOC amendment e. Tax Report 7. ClerksUpdate  a. Set date for. July regular Counci/BOA meeting b. Set date for August regular Council meeting a. Public' Works Shane Dale b. Finance Leslie Crowder  8. Department Updates  i.  Budget VS. Actual, previously provided to Council ii. Project Ordinance N. Main PWD/PD Building Renovation  Fire Department- - Niles Howell d. Police Department- - Brian Buchanan  e. Zoning/Code Enforcement/Flood Plain Administration - Brian Buchanan i. Call for a public hearing on 204 West Blvd zoning map amendment  . Flood Plain mapping process update Burnsville Town Center- Corbin Cooper  9. CouncilMembers' Reports    10. UpdatesfromAdhison! Boards and Non-Profits a. Yancey/Burnsville Chamber of Commerce b. High Country Council of Governments  11. Closed Session 12. Budget Discussion 14. Adjourn  13. Next Town Council Meeting Budget Hearing on June 11, 6pm  Regular meeting on July ,2024, 6pm    BURNSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL Regular Meeting Thursday, May 2, 2024, 6pm Burnsville Town Hall  On Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 6pm, the Burnsville Town Council with Mayor Pro Tem Judy Buchanan, Randy Ollis, and Bill Wheeler present, held a regular meeting at the Burnsville Town Hall. Mayor Russell Fox and member Denise Collier were unable to attend. Also in attendance were town staff members Heather Hockaday, Shane Dale, Brian Buchanan, Niles Howell, Leslie Crowder, and Chad Fox, and several visitors. Mayor Pro Tem Judy Buchanan called the meeting to order at 6pm and stated that the purpose oft the meeting was to conduct regular business fori the month of May Adoptionoft the agenda - Bill Wheeler moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Randy Ollis  2024.  seconded the motion, which carried. All were in agreement.  Public Comment  Grace Collins said that Main Street was getting busy and seemed to be getting more dangerous for pedestrians with motorists speeding. She said that Town Square has a dead tree and she hoped that a certified tree arborist could be involved in any tree trimming that takes place on the square. She also mentioned a Cooperative Extension workshop about meadow-themed plantings and said that insights from the presenter could assist in the Consideration of Minutes - Minutes from a regular meeting held on April 4, 2024 and a special meeting held on April 22, 2024 were considered. Randy Ollis made a motion to approve all minutes as read. Bill Wheeler seconded the motion, which carried. All were in agreement. Minutes from a closed session meeting held on April 4, 2024 were distributed and signed by all  Azalea Lane restoration project.  during the meeting. Presentations  Public Hearings - There was no public hearing.  The Mountain Biking Opportunities presentation was delayed. Bill Wheeler moved to add the presentation to al later meeting. Judy Buchanan seconded to motion, which carried. All were International Firefighters Day Judy Buchanan read a proclamation observing May 4th, 2024, as International Firefighters Day in recognition of all firefighters, past and present, for Police Appreciation Week Randy Ollis said he was honored to read the proclamation in light ofrecent events where several Charlotte officers lost their life in the line of duty. The proclamation designated May 12-18, 2024, as National Police Week, and encouraged citizens toj join the Council in commemorating: police officers, past and present, who have Public Works Appreciation Week Town Manager Heather Hockaday read a proclamation designating the week of May 19-25, 2024, as National Public Works Week. The proclamation encouraged citizens to reflect on the importance of the contributions our public works employees make, protecting our community's health, safety, and quality of life. She  in agreement. Proclamations  their invaluable service to our community and citizens.  rendered a dedicated service to their communities.  May 2, 2024  1    concluded by saying that the Town has a great public works staff, doing jobs that no one  wants to do, and she is proud to work with them. Manager's Update Town Manager Heather Hockaday  1. Project updates  Baker's Creek Pump Station rehabilitation - Mrs. Hockaday reported that the project Lead Service Line Inventory Mrs. Hockaday updated the Council on the statewide EPAI required inventory of service lines that may be composed of lead. She reminded them that Burnsville has never had a bad reading on lead or copper testing, saying that the Town also treats lines with orthophospnate that prevents lead from leaching into water. The Town was awarded- a $360,000 partial loan but has still not received- the loan offer and acceptance package from DEQ. She said that the inventory must be submitted by October 1st, creating ai timing issue due to how long the competitive With the project being short on time, Mrs. Hockaday asked the Council for authority to issue al Request For Proposals while she waits for documentation and specifics on the loan. Judy Buchanan moved to authorize Town Manager Heather Hockaday to issue an RFP for engineering services on the Lead Service Line Inventory project. Bill Wheeler seconded the motion, which carried. All were in agreement. Water Treatment Plant Improvements - Mrs. Hockaday reported that the project finally bid and McGill Associates recommended tentative award to Carolina Specialties Construction who submitted the winning bid of $1,009,158.. Judy Buchanan moved to approve the Resolution of Tentative Award to Carolina Specialties Construction, LLC for the Water Treatment Plant project and authorize Mayor Foxi to sign it. Bill Wheeler seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. 2. Planning Board's written recommendation, Board of Adjustment Randy Ollis made a motion to approve the Planning Board's written recommendation amending the text of the. Zoning Ordinance Section 1106, Board of Adjustment and call for a public hearing on the proposed text amendments at the. June 6th regular Council meeting. Judy Buchanan seconded the 3. Consideration of al letter of support for Advent Health -N Mrs. Hockaday presented a letter of support from Advent Health for an additional 26 beds to submit to the state, saying that the addition would be a benefit to the Town. Randy Ollis said that more beds will be needed as the population ages and he is int full support of the addition. Bill Wheeler moved to approve the letter ofs support for Advent Health and their application to develop 26 additional beds and authorize Mayor Fox to sign it. Judy Buchanan seconded the motion, which carried. All were 4. Tax Report Mrs. Hockaday presented at tax report and stated that the collection rate was 97.89%, with a few outstanding accounts. She said that staff is working on payment plans  began earlier in the week.  bidding process takes.  motion, which carried. All were in agreement.  ina agreement.  and possible foreclosure for ai few accounts. 1. Public Works - Public Works Director Shane Dale  Department Updates  a. Local Water Supply Plan Mr. Dale introduced a resolution and said that the Local Water Supply Plan has been approved by the state. Judy Buchanan moved to  May 2, 2024  2    approve the Resolution For Approving Local Water Supply Plan. Bill Wheeler seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. b. Bakers Creek Pump Station Mr. Dale reported that the bypass system has been set up and is much more dependable and less noisy than before.  2. Finance Finance Officer Leslie Crowder previously provided al budget VS actual and  overtime report.  a. Consideration of audit contract Mrs. Crowder said that the cost had not changed. Randy Ollis moved to approve the Audit Contract for services provided for the year ended June 30, 2024. Bill Wheeler seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. b, Grant Project Ordinance, Water Treatment Plant Improvements - Mrs. Crowder explained the $20,000 local match for engineering that has already been paid. Judy Buchanan moved- to approve the Grant Project Ordinance, Water Treatment Plant Improvements. Randy Ollis seconded the motion which carried. All were in  agreement.  3. Fire Department- Fire Chief Niles Howell presented a call summary for the month of April with 29 calls for the month. He also mentioned various equipment tests that the department 4. Police Department- - Police Chief Brian Buchanan presented an activity log and said that the department has promoted from within for the open position created by the retirement of the 5. Zoning/Code Enforcement- Zoning Administrator Brian Buchanan mentioned projects 6. Burnsville Town Center- Town Center Manager Corbin Cooper was unable to attend due to events at the Town Center but provided Council with al May Town Center report that Yancey Chamber of Commerce - Town Manager Hockaday mentioned progress on a memorandum of understanding for Town services provided during the Crafts Fair.  has completed and others that are coming up.  detective and posted aj job advertisement for a new patrol officer. discussed at recent planning board and design review meetings.  mentioned upcoming events. Updates from Advisory Boards and Non-Profits  Closed Session There was none.  Next Town Council Meeting - Budget Meeting on May 28, 2024, 10am.  Regular meeting on June 6, 2024, 6pm.  Adjourn With there being no further business, Randy Ollis moved to adjourn the meeting at  6:30pm. Bill Wheeler seconded, meeting adjourned.  J. Chad Fox, Town Clerk  T. Russell Fox, Mayor  May 2, 2024  3    PUBLIC NOTICE  PURSUANTTO NCGS 160D-601 and Article 14 of the Town of Burnsville Zoning Ordinance: The public shall take notice that on. June 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. during the regular monthly business meeting of the Burnsville Town Council, the Town Council will hold a public hearing. The purpose of the public hearing to take public comment on proposed text amendments to section 1106 of Article 11 (Board of Adjustment) oft the Zoning Ordinance for the Town of Burnsville. The Public Hearing will take place in the Burnsville Town Hall at 2 Town Square, Burnsville North Carolina 28714 in the Mark W. Bennett Boardroom during the Regular Business Meeting oft the Burnsville Town Council beginning at 6:00 p.m. AC copy- oft the proposed- amendments under consideration are available for review- at Town- Hall. Alli interested parties are encouraged to attend. Individuals requiring special accommodations fort this meeting, or for other questions and concerns, please contact the Town Clerk at (828) 682-2420.    Ordinance No.  ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF ARTICLE 11, SECTION 1106 OF THE BURNSVILLE ZONING ORDINANCE ENTITLED "BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT" (hereinafter BOA). THE ZONING ORDINANCE WAS NTIALLY, ADOPTED APRIL 4, 1985; AND. AMENDED FEBRUARY 6, 2014 AND' WITH SUBSEQUENT WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Burnsville pursuant to Chapter 160D of the North Carolina General Statutes and Article 14 of the Zoning Ordinance oft the Town of Burnsville has the authority to adopt zoning regulations, to establish zoning districts, to classify property within its. jurisdiction according to: zoning district, and to enforce and amend said regulations, district classifications and maps from time tot time in thei interest of the public health, safetyand welfare;and- WHEREAS, this text amendment was properly noticed pursuant to, NCGS160D-601a) as evidenced by Affidavits of Publication; and a public hearing was conducted at the Regular Business meeting oft the Town Council on. June_ 2024, at which time Council heard.andconsidered public input; and WHEREAS, this amendment is noti inconsistent with the 2021 Town of Burnsville Land, Use Plan in thati it WHEREAS, the Burnsville Planning Board met andreviewed the text amendment at its regular meeting held on April 9, 2024, and further made written recommendation tothe.Town Council to approve the text amendment, finding the same reasonable andçonsitentwitht the Comprehensive Land Use Plan; WHEREAS, this proposed ordinance amendment is determined to be reasonable and in the public interest as the North CarolinaGeneral Statutes requirethe establishment ofa a Board of Adjustment to hear various quasi-judicial zoningmatters and appeals brought by residents, property owners and WHEREAS, the Town Council" desires to remoye itself as the BOA and appoint a citizen board to fulfill this NOW, THEREFORE, BENT ORDAINED BYTHE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BURNSVILLE THATT THE ZONING ORDINANCE OFTOWN OF BURNSVILLE BE AMENDED AND REPEALED OR DELETED WHERE INDICATED IN THE TEXT OFTHE AMENDMENTS, AND SAID AMENDMENTS BE ADOPTED AND READ AS Pursuant. Article 14 (amendments) oft the Zoning Ordinance of the Town of Burnsville and in accordance with N.C.G.S. 160D-302, Article 11, Section 1106 of the Burnsville Zoning Ordinance Paragraph one (1) establishing the members of the Burnsville Town Council as members of the Town's Board of Adjustment is repealed and deleted from the text. Paragraph one (1) shall be "The BOA: shall consist of 5 members selected and appointed by the Town Council for the Town of Burnsville. A member's primary residence shall bei in Yancey County, North Carolina and they shall own property within the corporate limits of the Burnsville, NC. The terms of the members  AMENDMENTS THEREAFTER:  provides for a statutorily required establishment ofa a BoardotAdjustment.  and  %   developers; and  statutorily required duty and position.  FOLLOWS: 1.  be amended as follows:  amended and replaced by the following text:    of the BOA: shall be 3 years. Thei initial board member terms shall be staggered so that all member's terms will not expire at the same time. The Chair and two other members shall be appointed to serve 3 year terms and the remaining two seats shall serve 2 year terms. Replacement members may be appointed to serve out the remaining term of vacant seats. Members may ber re-appointed for subsequent terms at the discretion of the Town Council. Members shall be compensated for meetings and trainings attended at a rate of $150.00 per  meeting/training."  2. 3. 4. 5.  All other provisions of Section 1106 shall remain as written.  That the BOA Rules of Procedure Policy shall be amended by staff as-necessary to accommodate This amendment is reasonable andi in the best interest of the public and is not inconsistent with This amendment shall become effective upon the appointment of thenew BOA members by the Burnsville Town Council. Until such timei the BurnsvilléTown Council shallremain seated and  this amendment  the Burnsville 2021 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. authorized to act as the Town's BOA.  Read, approved and adopted at. (for) and  a.m./p.m. thist the day, of Townof Burnsville By,  2024, by a vote  of  (against).  TRiselFoX/Mayor  ATTEST: J.Chad Fox, CLERK  APPROVED ASTO FORM: ATTORNEY for Town of Burnsville    PLANNING BOARD'S WRITTEN RECOMMENDATION TO THE BURNSVILLE TOWN COUNCILTO APPROVE APPLICATION ZMA0121 REQUESTING AN AMENDMENTTOTHE OFFICIAL ZONING  MAP  WHEREAS, the zoning administrator for the Town of Burnsville has received an application requesting an amendment to the Official Zoning Map oft the Town of Burnsville on the parcel depicted in the map attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and identified as follows:  APPLICANT(s): OWNER(s): PIN(s): ADDRESS: LOT AREA: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING:  Ben Holt Root Down Farm, LLC 082013243646000 .346. ACRE C-1 (commercial) C-3 (commercial)  204 WEST MAIN: STREET, BURNSVILLE NC 28714  WHEREAS, the applicant is requesting that the zoning designation for the subject property be WHEREAS, Staff referred the above referenced application for a: zoning map amendment to the Burnsville Planning Board. On May 28, 2024 the Burnsville Planning Board held a special meeting to review and make recommendation on the above referenced application for az zoning map amendment as is required by Chapter 160D oft the North Carolina General Statutes; and WHEREAS, pursuant to NCGS 160D-604 (a) and (b) "the planning board shall make a written recommendation regarding adoption of the regulation to the governing board." "Subsequent to initial adoption ofa a zoning regulation, all proposed amendments to the zoning regulation, or zoning map shall be submitted to the planning board for review and comment. If no written report is received from the planning board within 30 days of referral of the amendment to that board, the governing board may act on the amendment without the planning board report."; WHEREAS, at the May 28, 2024 meeting, the Planning Board reviewed the proposed map amendment application, heard from Zoning Administration Staff, reviewed the 2021 Burnsville Land Use Plan and Future Land Use Map, discussed the proposed map amendment and voted NOW, THEREFORE, THE BURNSVILLE PLANNING BOARD HEREBY RECOMMENDS AS FOLLOWS: 1. The Burnsville Planning Board finds that the proposed zoning map amendment is consistent with the 2021 Burnsville LandUse Plan and in the best interest of citizens and residents of the Town of Burnsville (V/ori is NOT consistent with the 2021 Burnsville Land  changed from C-1commercial district to C-3 commercial district; and  and  upon the proposed map amendment; and    Use Plan and is NOT int the best interest ofthe citizens and resident oft the Town of Burnsville  2. The Planning Board recommends that the Burnsville Town Council (approve C)  deny the proposed Zoning Map amendment as stated above Read, approved and adopted this the 28th day of May, 2024.  Burnsville Planging Boarg MLY  Richard  a3  Consented to (yes/no): Planning Board Members: Richard Gierloff- Martin Stankus- Teresa Brown- Greg Yuzuik- Jeanne Martin-  VE5 Y15 J6S  Alternates (if applicable): Paul Bradley- Jerri Storie- Cherie Turner-  ATTEST:    5/24/24, 11:58AM  North Carolina Secretary of State Search Results  File an Annual Report/Amend an Annual Report . Upload a PDF Filing . Order a Document Online . Add Entity to My Email Notification List . View Filings . Print a Pre-Populated Annual Report form . Print  an Amended a Annual Report form Limited Liability Company  Legal Name Root Down Farm LLC Information Sosld: 2342500 Status: Current-Active 0 Date Formed: 1/24/2022 Citizenship: Domestic  Annual Report Due Date: April 15th CurrentAnnual Report Status:  Registered Agent: Holt, Benjamin J  Addresses Mailing  Principal Office Mars Hill, NC 28754  Reg Office  360 chandler branch rd 360 chandler branch rd 360 chandler branch rd  Mars Hill, NC 28754 Reg Mailing 360 chandler branch rd Mars hill, NC 28754-9255 Company Officials  Mars hill, NC 28754-9255  All LLCS are managed by their managers pursuant to N.C.G.S. 57D-3-20.  Member Benjamin James Holt 360 chandler branch rd Mars hill NC 28754  nanlin    Town of Burnsville Application for Zoning Map or Text Amendment  Fber  OWNERAPPUCANTNAME PHONE NUMBER: 707 9069191 Application is made to the' Town Council of Burnsville  APPLICATION DATE:  Bir  514124  MAILING ADDRESS: 360 chalkrbnuhd  28754  PRESHLN  to amend:  The Zoning Map Thet text of the Zoning Ordinance APPLICATION TO AMEND: ZONING MAP PROPERTY ADDRESS: PIN: 082432-3676000 CURRENT ZONING. DISTRICT: Cl Current owner(s) and date ofs survey VProperty location relative tos streets Areas located within the floodplain Natural terrain of 15% or greater grade  Z04 Wej Ylvch Bonsille,NC 29714  LOT AREA (acres): ,35  PROPOSEDZONING DISTRICT: C-3  APPLICATION IS NOT COMPLETE WITHOUT A BOUNDARYSURVEYDEPICITING:  VTotal acreage VNorth arrow  Existing easements, rights of way, or other restrictions on the property Adjoining property owners, addresses, and Yancey County PINS  APPLICATIONTO AMENDTEXT  SECTION(S) OF TOWN OF BURNSVILLE ZONING ORDINANCETO. AMEND: PROPOSED CHANGE TO' TEXT (attach additional documentation ifnecessary):  JUSTIFICATION OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT(S) (attach additional pages ifnecessary):    Town of Burnsville  Russell Fox, Mayor Chad Fox, Town Clerk Heather Hockaday Town. Manager/ Town Attorney  Councilors: Judy Buchanan Denise Collier Bill Wheeler Randy Ollis  Zoning Administrator Report  May 15, 2024  Reference: 204 West Boulevard, Burnsville NC  Irecently met with Ben Holt about the property he has recently purchased at 204 West Boulevard. This property lies within the C-1 zoning district and is approximately .35 acres in size. Mr. Holt has submitted an application for a map amendment to reclassify his property to  the C-3 Zoning District  The included map amendment application along with supporting documents that are attached show the location of the property which was formerly the Blue Ridge Motel. This parcel is currently an empty lot and a rezoning of the parcel would make it easier for Mr. Holt to develop this property. Our future land use map has this location designated as mixed use. With this parcel being off Main Street and somewhat removed from our central business area along with not abutting the US19E Bypass corridor, a zoning designation of C-3 seemed the most appropriate. This parcel is outside of any regulatory floodplain and there have been no previous zoning or code enforcement issues with the parcel that la am aware of.  The application is complete and includes the appropriate supporting documents. If you have any further questions regarding this applicationlam available to provide any information  Ican.  4  Bran Buchann,Zoning Administrator  PO Box 97 * Burnsville North Carolina 28714 * Phone (828 682-2420 # Fax (828) 682-7757-vww.townofbumsvile.org    Russell Fox Mayor Heather Hockaday Town. Manager/Attorney Chad Fox Town Clerk  Councilors: Judy Buchanan Denise Collier Randy Ollis Bill Wheeler  Couun of Burnsbille  OFBURNS  CARO  June 6, 2024 Mark Hubbard North Carolina DEQ and Fred Oelrich Project Manager Grant Management Unit Division of Water Infrastructure Dept of Environmental Quality  Re: H-SRP-D-17-0095 DWSRP/ Burnsville Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project 2022/DWSRF/ Burnsville Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project  Dear Mr. Hubbard:  The Town of Burnsville received the above referenced loans from the Division in 2017 and 2022 for repairs and upgrades to the Burnsville Water Treatment Plant. On August 24, 2022 SWIA approved the Town's application for the conversion of the loan amounts to agrant in the amount of $1,345,706.00 SRP-D-ARP-0128 DWARP Burnsville Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project). The project has been successfully bid within the grant funding amount and awaits an Authorization to Award (ATA) from the At this time the Town of Burnsville desires to terminate the 2017 and 2022 loan agreements and de- obligate the funding for the above referenced loans. #SRP-D-0095/5WSRP & 2022/DWSRF) The Town is grateful for the assistance and work of the Division. Ify you have any questions or concerns  Division.  please do not hesitate to contact me.  With best regards, Heather Hockaday Town Manager/Attorney  P.O. Box 97 . Burnsville, North Carolina 28714 . Phone (828) 682-2420 . FAX (828) 682-7757 . wwntowmolbumavll-org    Doug Matheson Chair oft the Board Boone, NC: 28607  Dennis. Aldridge Vice-Chair  Larry Fontaine Secretary Phone: 828-265-5434  Jeff Whitson Treasurer Fax: 828-265-5439  SACOUNS  468 New! Market Blvd. www.hccog.org  'c, 1574-2024 OF GOVERH  Executive Board Meeting May 20, 2024 I 7:00 p.m. High Country COG Board Room  CALLTOORDER AND INVOCATION Doug Matheson, Executive Board Chairman Doug Matheson, Executive Board Chairman II.FINANCIALM MATTERS Julie Page, Finance Officer  LCONSIDERATIONOF: APRIL 2024 MINUTES [ACTION]  Financial Highlights as of April 30, 2024 [ACTIONI BudgetAmendment: #5 [ACTION]  MLEGISLATIVEUPDATE Chris Wall, Principal, EQVStrategic  10MINUTES 10MINUTES 15MINUTES  V.NCPANDEMICI RECOVERY REGIONAL FOCUS GROUP REPORT  Abigail Holdsclaw, Research Associate, ncIMPACT VI. FY2025 BUDGET PRESENTATION Julie Wiggins, Executive Director Julie Wiggins, Executive Director VIII. BOARDI MEMBER COMMENTS IX.C CHAIRMAN'SCOMMENTS X.OTHER BUSINESS XI. PUBLICCOMMENT KILADJOURMMENTIACTIONI  VII. REPORT FROMTHE. ADVISORY COMMITTEE & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR  Thel HighCountyCoundlo ofCovernments will be the leader ini initiating and providing solutions tor regionaland local  challenges, supporting a bright future forthe High Country.    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OFGOVERNMENIS EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING  APRIL15,2024 MINUTES  The Executive Board ofthel High Country Council of Governments (HCCOG) met April 15, 2024, 7:00 pm int the HCCOG Board Room in Boone. The following members were present: Charles Vines, Brenda Lyerly, Stoney Greene, Timmy Evans, Otis Church, Larry Fontaine, Jeff Whitson, Peter Eller, Harley Masters, Chandler Reece, Rocky Buchanan Tim Futrelle, Tom Hartman, Ray Russell, Dennis Aldridge, Doug Matheson, Jeff Hedrick. Staff present: Julie Wiggins, Cory Osborne, Zack Green, Julie Page, Jessica Welborn, Stevie Welborn, Misty  Bishop-Price, Chris Grubb and Linda Slade. CALLTO ORDER AND INVOCATION  Chairman Matheson called the meeting to order and welcomed attendees. Jeff Whitson led the  Pledge ofAllegiance and Stoney Greene offered the invocation.  CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES Greene, the motion carried. FINANCIALHIGHLIGHTS  Tim Futrelle: moved to accept the minutes of the March 18, 2024 meeting, seconded by Stoney  Juliel Page, Finance Officer presented the Financial Highlights as ofl March 31, 2024. Mrs. Page also presented the Grant Project Ordinance regarding ARPA Funding for Long-Term Ombudsman Response in Residential Care Communities. Stoney Greene moved to accept the Financial Report and the Project Ordinance, seconded by Otis Church. The motion carried. Mrs. Page reviewed the Contract & Engagement Letter for Audit from Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams &C Co., PA. JeffWhitson moved to accept, seconded by Charles Vines. The motion carried. Jessica Welborn, HCCOG GIS Planner, gave an overview ofs some of the various types of projects HCCOG has assisted local government and municipalities with such as utility mapping, stormwater, water/sewer, data creations, maintenance, and other services.  GIS UPDATES & SERVICES PRESENTATION  OMBUDSMAN ANNUALREPORT  Stevie Welborn, Regional Ombudsman gave her annual report. Thej program serves 7 counties with 26 long-term care: facilities in the region that are comprised of11 adult care homes, 4 family care homes and 11 nursing homes. Mrs. Welborn reviewed complaint data and trends, program  assistance and facility visitations as well as advocacy and outreach. CONSIDERATIONOELEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES  The 2024 Legislative Priorities were reviewed. The priorities stay basically the same with the addition of"allowing for greater flexibility of occupancy tax spending" as well as fleshing out a couple ofother priorities. Stoney Greene moved to accept the priorities as presented, seconded  by Tom Hartman. The motion carried.    REPORT FROMTHE, ADVISORY COMMITTEE & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Ms. Wiggins acknowledged. Mrs. Page's upcoming retirement as Finance Office and thanked her for work over the past several years. The annual budget will be reviewed and presented in May fora a votei in. June. Ms. Wiggins gave kudos to the Department Heads for the number of grants currently pending, reminding the Board that the organization is largely funded by federal grants where there is not a lot of flexibility. Overhead is primarily fixed. Some highlights Ms. Wiggins shared with the board for consideration in one-time asks in the upcoming budget are a cost-of- living adjustment for staff, painting the exterior of the building, updating technology in the boardroom and replacement ofa vehicle which was declared totaled due to an accident. Would costs be less ifa a vehicle was leased? Other questions included types of vehicles under consideration. Additionally, consider incremental increases in the dues match in the upcoming years, rather than waiting multiple years where the cost jumps significantly. Consider that that process will look like in the future, and how to implement a cost increase in a timelier manner. There may be changes in the Workforce Development reauthorization bill passed the House and nowi in the Senate (Stronger Workforce for America Act) and proposed changes to bring to the Board's attention. COG. Association has taken this up. Funding requirements change and the impact here is we would not have a workforce office in each county, governor has more discretion; state has more flexibility in funding rather than on a local level. In other business, Cory Osborne's department is offering a free training course: an overview of] FEMA Public  Assistance Program and how to navigate funding. Flyers are available.  BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS  Dennis Aldridge gave a "shout out" for the superb work of Sarah Price who is assisting Avery County in the Opioid Settlement Funding with meetings and her subject knowledge. Suggestion was made to begin review of future increases in the fall during ai retreat - and COG signaling aqustments/ncreases well in advance would be easier. MerleFest begins next week. There will  be a car show in downtown N. Wilkesboro on May 3, 10a-2p.  CHAIRMAN COMMENTS  Chairman Matheson recognized Peter Eller, Mayor ofJefferson and welcomed him to his first  meeting.  OTHER BUSINESS & ADJOURNMENT Seconded by Tim Futrelle. The motion carried.  There being no: further business or public comments, Stoney Greene moved to adjourn.  Chairman, Doug Matheson  Victoria Oxentine, Clerk to the Board    COUN, rating 50  Doug Matheson Chairo ofthe. Board Boone, NC: 28607  Dennis. Aldridge Vice-Chair  Larry Fontaine Secretary Phone: 828-265-5434  Jeff Whitson Treasurer Fax: 828-265-5439  468 New Market. Blvd. www.hccog.org  974 2024 OF GOVER  FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS - MAY2 2024  APRIL 30, 2024 Total Fund Balance- Governmental Funds Restricted FundE Balance GF Assigned Fund Balance GF Unassigned! FundE Balance GF Total Expenditures YTD  2,023 2,122,917 22,457 $ 553,514 1,546,946 2024 $4,615,496 $ 6,719,237 32.46% 31.59% 23.65% 23.02% FISCAL YEAR: 2024  BUDGET ACTUAL $ 415,336 407,906 $ 1,251,640 844,967 41,000 $ 7,028 $ 3,035,361 $ 2,057,441 $ 1,796,291 1,082,821 $ 6,539,628 $ 4,400,164 415,336 $ 396,121 1,251,640 962,036 41,000 ls 21,063 3,035,361 2,102,076 1,796,291 1,134,201 6,539,628 $ 4,615,496 $ (215,332) FISCALY YEAR BUDGET 2022 593,750 2023 $ 331,250 S. 2023 $ 251,959 2024 $ 15,425 $. 125,769. 147,189 10,456 $. $ 39,013 $ $ 58,120 $ S 114,666 s $ 71,006 $ 2023 $ 66,601 $ . 146,001 ls $ 107,181 S 13,792 $ 77,944 s 27,000 $  Total FundE Balances as % ofG General Fund Expenditures* Unassigned! FundE Balance as % of General Fund Expenditures". FY2024 Budget Exponditures $6,539,628 Total Revenue General Plamning/Dovlopment Resilience Contractual Area Agency on Aging Workforce Development Total Expenditures General Planning/Dowalopment Resilience Contractual Area Agency on Aging Workforce Development Revenues over (under)e expenditures FV2024 PROJECT ORDINANCES AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (ARPA) DISASTERI RECOVERY NCARCOG ASUFALLS PREVENTION OMBI LOC6-A ARPA ARPAF FCSP ARPAF P&A ARPA OMB ARPAE EBHP ALLEGHANY COUNCIL ON AGING ARPA GENERATIONS ASHE ARPA AVERYS SENIOR SERVICES ARPA MITCHELLS SENIORS CENTERA ARPA WATAUGAI PROJECT ONA AGINGA ARPA BROCA ARPA WILKES SENIOR RESOURCES ARPA RUBYP PARDUE BLACKBURN ADCARPA YANCEYS COMMUNITY CENTERA ARPA LEGAL AID OF NCARPA TOTALS Cash Balances Operating Account NCCMT Account  DESCRIPTIONS  REVENUE EXPENSE 212,496 $ 228,530 97,552 s 223,055 144,408 $ 164,142. 50,418 $ 1,428 12,625 $ 473 76,916 90,158 ls 82,645 $ 7,214 $ 15,120 88,798 $ 295,342 $ 300,648  50,658 1,923 12,925 473 76,916 90,158 76,337 13,522 15,120 90,592  $ 154,860 S 100,150 $ 100,150 1,159,598 $ 437,147 $ 438,182 $ 3,051,982 $ 1,275,743 1445,149  NCWORKS SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERI RECOVERY GRANT 2023 $ 200,000 NCWORKS SMALLE BUSINESS WORK- BASEDI LEARNING GRANT 2023 $ 500,000  $ 476,955 $1,284,804 $1,761,759  The-ghCountyCounelorCowmments willl bet the leaderi in initiating and providing: solutions to regional andl local  challenges, supportingat bright future for thel High Country.    brating 50 COUNS  Doug Matheson Chair oft the Board 468 New Market Blvd. www.hccog.org Boone, NC: 28607  Dennis Aldridge Vice-Chair  Larry Fontaine Secretary Phone: 828-265-5434  Jeff Whitson Treasurer Fax 828-265-5439  Soi 1674-202 OF GOVERM  Budget Amendment #5  Thej financial information in the report reflects the HCCOG's overall financial position for the fiscal year through. April 30, 2024 and is for the management discussion purposes only.  Julie Page, Finance Officer  The-HghCuntyCounelofCovernments will be thel leader ini initiating and providing solutions tor regionalo andl local  challenges; supportingat bright futurei fort the! HighCountry    EUPGETAMENPMENTHS  BEI ITI RESOLVED byt the Board of High Country Council of Governments that thet following amendment  ber made tot thel Budget Resolution for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.  SECTION 1: REVENUES BY SOURCE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FUND  Federal Federal  $ 45,000.00 $ 45,000.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 95,000.00  TOTAL AREA. AGENCY ON AGING FUND  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT FUND  TOTAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT FUND $ 50,000.00  TOTAL REVENUES BY SOURCE  SECTION I: EXPENDITURES BY PROGRAM SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS  Area Agency on Aging Fund Workforce Development Fund TOTAL SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS TOTAL EXPENDITURES BY PROGRAM FY2023-2024 ORIGINAL BUDGET Budget Amendment #1 10-16-2023 Budget Amendment #2 11-20-2023 Budget Amendment #3 12-18-2023 Budget Amendment #4 3-18-2024 Budget Amendment #5 5-20-2024 TOTAL AMENDED BUDGET FY2024  $ 45,000.00 $ 50,000.00 95,000.00 $ 95,000.00 5,998,296.00 ($14,682.00) 361,641.00 $ 90,635.00 $ 8,738.00 $ 95,000.00 6,539,628.00  BYVOTE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS UPON MOTION BY:  AND SECONDED BY 2024.  THIS THE.  DAYOF  Doug Matheson, Chair of thel Board  Larry Fontaine, Secretary    REGIONAL SUMMARY HighCountry EGTONDAMIONcNERVAI Marchl 12 024b ByMEMPACIAVCRIE NGPandenig RCCMINOIRCAINCPROA orebAANbrhCaralnohsuPhtondr RegtonalcoundlsoGovermmens  INTRODUCTION: This Focus Group  Eight people volunteered for this focus-group conversation. The High Country Council of Governments (COG) represents Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey counties. No representatives from Yancey County were present in the focus-group session. The focus group consisted oft three. men and one woman from Watauga County, ranging in assumed ages from 24 to 65. The other four participants were: from Ashe, Alleghany, Wilkes, and Avery counties, respectively, and each was assumed to be between 50 and' 75 years old. The majority oft the participants were. from the local-government sector. Two participants did not turn on their cameras. Those who did appeared tol be  white. Overall, the participation level was verygood. Participants explored the following questions:  1. Which pandemic-era programs best supported reliefand recovery efforts in 2. Howv will the expiration of pandemic-era programs and efforts to address resulting funding gaps or program changes impact your community? 3. Where do ongoing recovery needs intersect with long-term economic Participants also discussed the country's and the region's paths forward and how improved communication and collaboration can bolster the resilience of the region.  your community?  planning needs?  WHAT MATTERS TO THE COMMUNITY: Survey (CES) Results  Reactions to the NCPRO Community Engagement Focus-group participants indicated agreement with CES's ranking ofl housing as a top concern, although thei issues ofhousing for families and the elderly were not explicitly mentioned by participants. Food insecurity for the elderly was also not mentioned.  02024.S School of Government." Thel University of North Carolina at Chapel! Hill.  54    HIGH COUNTRY REGION  55  Top Areas of Concern for Residents in High Country Council of Governments Service Area  lent Housing Family  Food Elderly  erL Housing Elderly  NCIMPACT  High-Speed Internet  Several oft the participants stated that having money to expand access tol high-speed Internet in the region was a huge benefit during the pandemic. One participant noted that pre-pandemic coverage maps were: not representative of broadband coverage in the region, requiring al heavy investment to help local residents access the Internet: While the official maps of broadband: coverage showed us with good coverage, they were sadly mistaken. And so (pandemic fundingl was used tor really beef up thel broadband: coverage in the countyl. Idon'tknow: if you'ds say that'sthe moste effective luse of funding), but it was certainly thel biggest chunk of money spent here,  To ensure than learning would continue during the pandemic, children having access to the Internet was a major priority in the region. With: remote work happening and a lot of people moving to the area to work remotely, broadband expansion was massive. It was pointed out that the discount connectivity program (service was offered at a cost of $30/month) was and is advantageous for families in the region. One participant felt that the funds that were used for this purpose will continue to serve generations to come: Everything's! happening online since the pandemic, and't that hasntrealychanged. Including school, work, you name itl Even] healthcare. Having that access and that little extral bit of help each month has enabled folks to tapi into thati resource. It's economic development: and community development wrapped into one program.  02024.S School ofG Government. The University ofl North Carolina at Chapel Hill.    56  HIGH COUNTRY REGION  Transportation  Focus-group session participants said that the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) needs to have more funding because iti is a complicated system and, by the time money gets to this region, its impact is watered down. One participant noted that, initially during the pandemic and after big storms, the DOT got kind of"sideways for a while," which became an issue for the region, where road access Especially here in the Northwest, being road-dependent; only) you know [the implications oft that situation]. No airports, no interstates up this way. So you know thei impactof the pandemici initiallyl. how the gast taxi money dropped off. And then you had a.  is everything:  couple of big storms [that caused furtheri impactsl. Childcare, Education, and thel Elderly  The timing of the pandemic-era child tax credit and stimulus checks was helpful to families in the region. During the pandemic, schools were offering free meals, including breakfasts. Once the aid for childcare centers ends, it will have a big impact. Focus- group session participants said that they believed teacher pay is ai real problem in the area, asi it is nationwide. The additional checks going out to college students during the pandemic made a difference. in the community college system. The American Rescue Plan. Acti included funds for aging services, which was also helpful. The impact ofaid thinkt that the child tax credit, or whatever that was called, those stimulus checkslI - were helpful froma a timing perspective. Ithink. things [were] timed out [fairly] well, youl know; [likel when: stimulus came,) when [Paycheck Protection. Program moneyl came, when, those tax credits came. Itf felt like that was at à good time right before, you know, school got backi in session again, andi people were thinking about some of the elevated  programs was described as follows:  costs of education: at that pointi in time.  Housing  Affordablel housing is an issue in this region. Without available, accessible housing, iti is hard to recruit businesses to your area. For the Wilkes County participant, the housing issue definitely speaks to an inability to fill jobs. Some of the county's ordinances are The. Avery County participant referenced that county's tremendous second-home market. "There's a dichotomy of culture and social economic balance [on the issue.) Tlhe way people see this issue is widely varied.. . . Avery County has a tremendous tax base from second homes." In addition to second homes, the county has a lot of resorts, and both forms of housing create al lot of tension. "Ify you go to any town in North Carolina, there are buildings closed down but not.. second homes!] : [t's difficult to  being revised to allow for the building ofinnovative housing.  02024. School of Government. Thel University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.    HIGH COUNTRY REGION  57  get affordable housing when the average home price is al lot higher [than most people can One participant stated that affordable housing ini the region is almost non-existent: In our area we have al lot of pressure laround] housing. [Wle're trying every day to work with unique solutions. [to ensure that therei isl! housing access. and  pay). It's difficult when people see such a different culture."  affordabilityl: Itl drives a lot of things in our area.  Healthcare  Participants labeled healthcare as another major concern in the region. During the pandemic, participants felt that the area did a good job with the dissemination of information. They also said that opioid settlement funds have been a valuable tool from at treatment standpoint. Clinics were set up for citizens to get testing and vaccines once they became available. AppHealthCare was also cited as having been helpful with messaging about the importance of hand washing and normalized outreach. The region also received some: funding from AppHealthCare during the pandemic. There werea lot ofv visitors to the area at that time, so the signage developed by Alleghany, Ashe, and Watauga counties helped those from other states understand the region's rules. In] February 2020, Avery County opened a new community center, and its first usage was for testing and, later, vaccinations. During that year's Christmas season, seasonal workers came to the area, and the county put together a medical trailer to serve them. Despite these positive things, participants still worried about healthcare issues: The provider use is retiring, So everyone is panicking. One person [leaving results inal  10 percent Idropi inl available providers. WHAT MATTERS TO THE COMMUNITY: Business-Specific Concerns  Participants indicated agreement with the ranking oft top concerns presented in the 2022 Employer Needs Survey produced by the Labor & Economic Analysis Division of the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the NC Works Commission, particularly lack of workers generally. Lack of qualified workers and access to capital  were not mentioned.  ( Small Businesses  The PPP helped small businesses keep their employees in the region. There are a lot ofarts and crafts businesses and restaurants in the area. Participants thought it was amazing that only a few small businesses in the region were. lost during COVID-19.A job-retention grant from the statel Department of Commerce was said to be helpful for  businesses that were not eligible for a federal PPP allocation.  02024.Schools of Government. Thel University of North Carolina at Chapell Hill.    58  HIGH.COUNTRY REGIONE  Employment  Focus-group members discussed the lack of workers in the region and how raising the minimum wage had been debated pre-pandemic. One had this to say on the matter: Your may disagree that the minimum: wage needs to be higher. But that's what the market isdemanding righti now, and higher salaries arel helpful. Thel people, especially those who are having trouble finding housing or affording child care, Ineed thel helpl. Participants felt that being able to use tools like Zoom was a good development that produced both time and money savings. Recruiting and training employees, such as  school employees, was cited as a critical need.  MOVING FORWARD:  Understanding Resilience across the Region Unlike other focus-group members, participants in this session were not shown the Social Vulnerability Index created byt the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department ofl Health and Human Services' Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) due to facilitator error. They were asked about the region's resilience generally. The group said that. Americans are: incredibly resilient and innovative when compared to the rest of the world and that their region [We are technically discussing pandemiç.recovery, needs, but they impact everything to think the pandemic.recovery needs and the tregion'sl long-term needs are one land)  will adapt tol handle whatever comes its way:  do with thel local economy ande economic development,  the same. In many cases. LESSONS LEARNED:  Preparing for the Next Crisis  1. Communication is key. Participants reported that communication between local governments and their citizens is much better post-pandemic. Here'sa Local governments have found new ways toi interact with people and getf feedback, andi its seems like the amount of public participation hasi increased [since the pandemic. I'd like to: see that continue.Ithinki that's healthy, and! I'm sure our local governments would agree thatt they enjoy hearing from folks 99 percent of the time. 2. Collaboration improves outcomes. According to focus-group session participants, the counties in their region have more collaboration and open  typical observation:  lines of communication since the pandemic.  02024. Schoold of Government." The University ofl North Carolina at Chapel Hill.    HIGH COUNTRY REGION  59  3. The commitment of community leaders is crucial to a community's success. Members oft this focus group are invested ini their communities and vow to continue to do the work necessary to be successful: Apart of this area's DNAI is to rise above challenges.  Therei isaf famous quote by Daniel Boone [about how] he was never lost, but he was a mite bewildered fort three days. That'st the way we are. We're not lostL, we're] bewildered. We are not victims. We are overcomers. We are hard workers. That hopefulness was thet thing that was kind of lost [during the pandemic), We are positively going tol be okay. We can instill that confidence as opposed to fearfulness. From a leadership standpoint, thati is what we really have to be cognizant of.  02024. School ofG Government. Thel University ofl North Carolina at Chapel Hill.      Doug Matheson Chair ofthe Board Boone, NC: 28607  Dennis Aldridge Vice-Chair  Larry Fontaine Secretary Phone: 828-265-5434  Jeff Whitson Treasurer Fax: 828-265-5439  468/ New! Market Blvd. www.hccog.org  OF GOVERM MEMORANDUM  TO: Board Chair and Members, High Country Council of Governments  FROM: Julie Wiggins, Executive Director  SUBJECT: Budget Message for Fiscal Year Ending 2025  DATE: May 20, 2024  The proposed budget for the High Country Council of Governments 2024-2025 fiscal The HCCOG budget is divided into five (5) main departments including: Area Agency on Aging, Planning and Development, Workforce Development, Economic Recovery and  year is $5,719,154.  Resilience, and the General Fund. Area Agency on Aging  The High Country Area Agency on Aging (AAA) administers the Long-Term Care Ombudsman and Family Caregiver Support Programs, health promotion and disease prevention programs, administrative support for the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature/Aging: Advisory Committee, the North Carolina Lifespan Respite Project, and many additional activities authorized by the Older Americans Act and state-directed funds The AAA is responsible for contracting with local providers throughout the region, as well as monitoring their expenditures and service delivery to ensure compliance with program requirements. Local providers continue to provide programs authorized by the Older American's Act, including provision of meals, in-home support, transportation, and Family caregiver support continues to be a major part of the AAA's service to the region through the Lifespan Respite Program, the Family Caregiver Support Program, and our The AAA will continue administering the North Carolina Lifespan Respite Project as part of a multi-year grant awarded again to the North Carolina Division of Aging. Lifespan Respite provides respite vouchers for adult caregivers caring for older adults or someone with special needs of any age. The AAA will administer this program for the entire state  for older adults.  operation of senior centers.  collaboration with Yancey Dementia Caregivers and Friends.  with a grant of approximately $191,269 for Fiscal Year 2025.  TheH HignCounthyCounciloundlofCovernments will bet thel leader. ini initiating and providing solutions to regional and local  challenges; supporting a bright future fort the High Country.    The High Country AAA's Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) is well established in the region and includes the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program. The FCSP provides caregiver directed respite vouchers for all seven counties as well as other services and support to family caregivers. The FCSP program allows for flexibility in services, providing caregivers with various types of support such as incontinence supplies, education, nutritional supplements, as well as funding for home safety modification. We are proud to be partnering again with the Yancey Dementia Caregivers and Friends initiative to support caregivers ofloved ones with dementia in Yancey County. With support again this year from the Community Foundation of Western NC, this program collaboration will offer many opportunities for education, respite, and support The AAA will continue to administer program funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This funding will support the region's service providers in providing nutrition, supportive services, and legal aid to older adults. Additionally, this funding will be used for long term investments that will support older adults in the region for years to come. ARPA funds will also support the FCSP, Long Term Care Ombudsman, and Evidence- Based Health Promotion Programs. The majority of the remaining ARPA funds will be The Evidence Based Health Promotion Program has had a dramatic increase in activity over the last two years. In partnership with Appalachian State University, the AAA was awarded a 3-year, $251,959 grant from the Administration for Community Living to promote fall prevention programming throughout our region. As we head into the final year of this grant, the AAA is proud to be serving hundreds of older adults each year and has built a strong network of local instructors to continue these programs in every county. Additionally, we are leveraging this network of instructors to establish opportunities for older adults to take Chronic Disease Sel-Management classes in the region.  groups.  expended by the end of the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025.  Planning and Development  The Planning and Development department is supported byt funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Economic Development Administration (EDA), NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT), member government dues, which match the federal grants, and contracts with local governments for larger projects and grant administration. Where available, staff leverages state and federal grant funds for administration. These contracts enable the department to offer a more robust array of specialized services throughout the region. Local contractual funding for Fiscal Year 2025 is estimated at $427,000. Contractual revenue otherwise consists of grant administration The GIS Program comprises $74,000 of the $427,000 budget in contractual revenue. Most GIS projects are based on lump-sum contracts. Other projects are charged by the  and GIS services.  hour. For Fiscal Year 2025, the rate for GIS services is $80/hour.    The Planning and Development department administers the Rural Transportation Planning Organization. The NCDOT funding for the RPO for Fiscal Year 2025 is  $146,800, with a local match requirement of $9,175.  Workforce Development  The High Country Council of Governments serves as the administrative/iscal agent for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funded programs and services via the Workforce Development departmenuworworce Development Board. WIOA funding is provided to the NC Department of Commerce by the United States Department of Labor, tos serve adults, dislocated workers, youth, business customers, and provide NCWorks Career Center operations. WIOA legislation emphasizes the need to assist business customers witho obtaining the skilled workers they need to be successful. On the jobseeker side, WIOA funding assists adult and youth customers in working toward meeting their educational and employment goals through career center services including assessments, classroom training, work-based learning, supportive services, case management, job search assistance, placement service, and employment follow up The Workforce Development Board is responsible for procuring WIOA service providers too carry out WIOA services throughout the region as well as monitoring expenditures of funds and service delivery requirements and expectations. Workforce development staff engage and partner with organizations that support workforce, education, and economic In addition to program formula funds anticipated at approximately $1,496,346, the High Country Workforce Development Board continues to seek and apply for additional grants  services.  development across the region.  as they become available. Economic Recovery & Resilience  The Economic Recovery & Resilience Department is primarily funded throughas $593,750 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant from the North Carolina COG Association. The Disaster Recovery and Regional Resilience grant that the department has used over the past two years to fund our FEMA Public Assistance training and regional emergency managemenvresllence efforts will expire at the end of. June 2024. In addition toi the ARPA grant, the department has two active technical assistance contracts that will help fund activities during the coming fiscal year, as well as a pending grant application with Dogwood Health Trust. This combination of funding allows the Department's two full-time, temporary staff to provide a variety of services to the region's local governments, many at no cost. The nature of those services is dictated by the ARPA grant scope of work, the The Department has primarily focused its efforts over the past year on assisting with administration of ARPA funding, helping local governments apply for and administer grants stemming from North Carolina's state-level ARPA funds, assisting counties with  contracts the Department enters, and the needs of local governments.    administration of Opioid Settlement Fund monies, performing various technical assistance projects, furthering broadband expansion efforts, and carrying out initiatives related to disaster recovery financial management and emergency management throughout the region. With existing funding sources, the Economic Recovery &  Resilience Department will remain active through early 2026.  General Fund and Indirect Cost  The general fund budget includes $8,000 in anticipated sponsorship for the annual banquet, and $262,575 in local dues that will match several federal grants. Most of the organization's overhead costs are paid for by way of an indirect cost rate applied to our grants. The indirect budget also includes the $26,400 in revenue from the lease of HCCOG office's Suite B. The HCCOG's federal cognizant agency issued an acknowledgement letter for our requested 47% indirect rate. The staffing level projected The HCCOG office building has five remaining years on the term with an interest rate of 4.19%. The debt service includes $113,021 in annual principal and interest There is a request for a $100,000 general fund appropriation to address three one-time capital expenses. The indirect budget also includes funds to cover the required post- employment benefit actuary study, to be conducted on an annual basis at a cost of  fori the coming fiscal year is 22 full-time employees.  payments. The fifth and final fiscal year of payments will be 2029.  $3,000.  Budget Highlights Expenditures:  Acost-of-living adjustment of 4% is proposed for all employees. The fringe rate (employee benefits) is 43%. Matching contributions to the Local Government Retirement System has increased from 12.85% to 13.6%. Software expenditures include estimated expenses for IT support and various  software systems as required by each department.  Revenues:  An updated lease agreement for HCCOG office's Suite B will generate $26,400 Local dues (grant match) was adjusted for population changes and remains largely Workforce Development is in the second year of administering $700,000 in special grant funds over the next two years, adopted via a project ordinance. The Planning and Development department contractual revenue includes an estimated $75,000 in revenue for GIS services. The rate for GIS services is $80 per  placed fully in the indirect fund. unchanged from the prior fiscal year.  hour rate.    AAA continues to administer a $252,000 three-year federal grant for falls  prevention.  It has been a pleasure working with staff on the proposed 2024-2025 budget, and I look forward to working with the Executive Board on its adoption. Ify you have any questions, please give me a call at (828)265-5434 ext. 125 or email me at wiggins@hcog.org.    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FY2024/2025 BUDGET: RESOLUTION  BEITE RESOLVED! BY THE BOARD OF THEI HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS: Thef following: amounts areh herebya appropriated by program fort thec operation ofs said Council of Governments forf fiscal year beginning) July 1,2 2024, ande ending) June 30, 2025:  SECTIONI: REVENUESI BYSOURCE GENERALFUND Local Federal Local TOTAETEANNINGDEVELOPMENTFUND ECONOMICI RECOVERY& RESILIENCYI FUND Local TOTALE ECONOMICI REÇOVERY. & RESILIENCY FUND AREA AGENCY ONA AGINGFUND Federal State Local Federal  TOTALGENERALFUND PLANNING/DEVELOPMENTFUND  310.575 390,453 593,612 984:072 73.627 73.627 2,574,787 92,093 84,214 2,751,094 1,499,786 1.499.786 100,000 5.719.154 410,575 984,072 73,627 2,751,094 1,499,786 5,308,579 5,719,154  $  $ $  TOTALAREA. AGENCY ON AGINGI FUND WORKFORCE1 DEVELOPMENT FUND TOTALWORKPORCE: DEVELOPMENTFUND APPROPRIATEDI FUNDI BALANCE TOTALI BUDGET REVENUE  $ $ $  SECTIONI: EXPENDITURES BY PROGRAM  GENERALFUND Local Activities TOTALGENERALFUND SPECIALI REVENUEI FUNDS P'amningDevelopment Economic Recovery & Resiliency Area Agencyo on Aging Workforcel Development  $ $ $ $ $ $  TOTAL SPECIALI REVENUEI FUNDS TOTAL) BUDGET EXPENDITURES  SECTIONII:  a. Thel Budget Officer isl hereby authorized tot transfer appropriations within any ofthe above programs subject b. Duet tot thet timingo ofreccivingo certainr revenues andj projectsf fort the Council, thel Budget Officeris herebya authorizedt toi incure expenditures after ar notice ofrevenue availability is received.. Af formal budgeta amendment incorporating such project istob bep presented tot the! Board ofD Directors att ther next ADOPTED) BY VOTE OFTHE HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS UPONI MOTIONI BY:  toa any restriction on] particular granti monies.  availabler meeting.  AND SECONDEDI BY  THIS DAY OFJ JUNE, 2023  Toddl McNeill, Chair ofth thel Board  Dennis Aldridge, Secretary    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE: 2025 BUDGET SUMMARY  REVENUES: Federal State Local  4,465,026 92,093 1,062,035 $ 100,000 5,719,154 914,427 $ 393,203 $ 614,591 $ 262,575 $ 193,936 $ 37,500 $ 71,690 $ 13,000 $ 95,400 $ 16,000 $ 100,000 $ 1,000 $ 156,850 $ 173,087 $ $ 1,925,895 $ 750,000 5,719,154  Appropriated Fund Balance  TOTAL EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Indirect Costs Required Local Match Professional Services. Annual Banquet/Meeting Expense Travel/Registration Information Technology BuldingyEgupmenukent Gas/O/Tires Capital Expense Housing Partnership TrainingSupportive Services Office Operations Planning Contractual Aging Contractual Workforce TOTAL    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE 2025  PLANNING/DEVELOPMENT  REVENUES: Federal EDA RPO Local  $  70,000 146,128 174,325 427,238  166,381 $ 984,072 $ 444,352 $ 191,071 $ 298,651 $ $ $ $ $ $  Appalachian Regional Commission  Contracted: Projects Required Local Match  TOTAL EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Indirect Costs Professional Services Meeting Expense Trave/Registration Information Technology Equipment Office Operations TOTAL PERSONNEL: Planning & Development Director Senior Planner Regional Planner (2) GIS Planner (2) Transportation Planner  2,000 23,450 10,000 2,000 12,548 $ 984,072    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE 2025  ECONOMIC RECOVERY & RESILIENCY  REVENUES: Local Contracted Projects TOTAL EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Indirect Costs Travel/Registration Office Operations TOTAL PERSONNEL: Director of] Recovery & Resilience Resiliency. Planner  $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $  73,627 73,627 32,980 14,181 22,166 2,300 2,000 73,627    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENIS  FYE 2025 GENERAL FUND  REVENUES: Local Dues Mileage Investment Income Banquet Reimbursement Banquet Sponsorship Rental Income REVENUES  $ $ $ $ $ $ $  262,575 22,000 10,000 8,000 8,000 310,575  100,000.00 $  APPROPRIATED FUND BALANCE  TOTAL REVENUE  410,575  EXPENDITURES: Required Local Match Auto Expense Banquet and Meeting Expense Capital Expense Housing Partnership Match  $ $ $ $ $  262,575 16,000 31,000 100,000 1,000  TOTAL EXPENDITURES  $410,575    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE: 2025  AREA AGENCY ON AGING  REVENUES: P&A Ombudsman Elder Abuse Lifespan MIPPA/SMP State. Admin Required Local Match Special Projects Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Consumer Contribution Senior Center, Fan Heat Relief Nutntion SuppemengNutuon  $ 170,416 $ 129,807 $ 151,271 $ 3,353 $ 191,269 $ 25,345 $ 48,262 $ 62,214 $ 21,500 $ 21,262 $ 500 $ 43,831  Family Caregiver Support Program  Home and Community Care Block Grant  $ 1,882,064 2,751,094 $ 244,581 $ 105,170 $ 164,384 $ 4,485 $ 3,000 $ 35,940 $ 110,789 $ 156,850 $ 43,831 $ 1,882,064 $2,751,094  TOTAL EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Indirect Costs Professional Services Contractual Meeting Expense Travel/Registration Office Operations Contractual TOTAL PERSONNEL: AAA Director Regional Ombudsman Aging Services Coordinator (Lifespan Respite grant) Compliance Officer Family Caregiver Project Coordinator Health Promotion Specialist  Special Projects, Caregiver Services Senior Center, Fan Heat Relief    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE 2025  INDIRECT COST BUDGET  REVENUES: Program Indirect Rental Income TOTAL EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Professional Services Meeting Expense Trave/Registration Utilities Training/Dues Board Activity  $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $  731,817 26,800 758,617 301,802 129,776 59,000 1,000 13,627 113,021 21,500 22,000 12,000 20,600 30,091 34,200 758,617  Sutldings/Equpment (Interest/Dep) Repairs and Maintenance and Capital  Office Operations & Equip Lease Information Technology & Software  TOTAL PERSONNEL: Executive Director Finance Officer Communications. Manager Accounting Technician    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  FYE 2025  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT  REVENUES: Administration Adult Dislocated Worker Youth Services Special Grants TOTAL  $ $ $ $ $ $  180,088 366,250 261,948 596,500 95,000 1,499,786  EXPENDITURES: Salaries Fringe Benefits Indirect Costs Professional Services Meeting Expense Trave/Registration Information Technology Career Center Rent Career Center Utilities Office Operations Contractual TOTAL PERSONNEL:  $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $  192,514 82,781 129,390 189,451 1,500 10,000 3,000 93,400 26,500 21,250 750,000 1,499,786  Workforce Development Director  Workforce Development Accountability and Compliance Manager Workforce. Development Communications and Business Services Coordinator    HIGH COUNTRY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS  LOCAL SUPPORT REQUEST  FY2024/2025  2024/2025 2024/2025 per capita Local Match $4,530 250 $10,726 250 250 250 $6,958 250 250 250 250 250 $5,934 250 250 $21,894 250 250 1,000 250 $26,276 500 250 500 $7,366 250 $89,684  2024/2025 TOTAL Requested $12,257 1,500 $30,186 1,500 750 1,250 $18,725 1,250 750 1,000 1,000 750 $15,938 750 1,750 $48,633 1,000 1,250 17,262 750 $73,282 4,073 750 3,512 $21,206 1,500 $262,575 page2  Current Population Member Dues 2022 Estimates  *Support  $0.40 Requested for Local Support  MEMBER GOVERNMENIS Alleghany County Sparta Ashe County Jefferson Lansing West. Jefferson Avery County Banner Elk Crossnore Elk Park Newland Sugar Mountain Mitchell County Bakersville Spruce Pine Watauga County Beech Mountain Blowing Rock Boone Seven Devils Wilkes County North Wilkesboro Ronda Wilkesboro Yancey County Burnsville  11,324 1,915 26,814 1,621 128 1,370 17,395 1,176 248 548 714 381 14,834 468 2,184 54,736 685 1,377 19,801 316 65,691 4,351 439 3,667 18,415 1,563  $7,727 $1,250 $19,460 $1,250 $500 $1,000 $11,767 $1,000 $500 $750 $750 $500 $10,005 $500 $1,500 $26,738 $750 $1,000 $16,262 $500 $47,005 $3,573 $500 $3,012 $13,840 $1,250 $172,891  TOTAL REQUESTED  Member dues;t towns $250, population 2500-5000, $500, population over 5000, $1000 Match: Towns under 500 pay $500/500-999: $750/1 1000-1499: $1000/1500-19993 $1250/2000-24995 $1500 Towns over 2500 and the counties paya aj pro-rata share oft thel balancel based onp population.    : ::  5 66  ::  :  8  3 a  10e   88 à  :8 8888 :88 jaaga $888 Ia :88 S88888 888 58888 5888 I  :  46 9 $88 8  888 3 8868  € $6565 I5S 1888 888888 188 f  3 Se  f  EEESE  18888 1888 IR 8 a  355 $88888 588 38888 6888 IA I   4388 88888 188 6  8A88 3888 # :  444 988888 388 8888 3888   - £8 EARR SARRR BRR - AA88 3888 J  59  BARR EARAR IAR 8888 8883 I  6 8888 9  BARRR JRR - 888 $888 I a  5888 18888 8E - 18R 8688  of    : 1:::e  de  : :  : 1E  10e IER: 8o  i  1  d6    58 Be