July 10,2024  The Martin County Board of Commissioners met in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Boardroom of the Martin County Governmental Center,  305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina.  ASSEMBLY  Present ini the Boardroom: Chairman Dempsey Bond Jr., Vice Chair Emily Biggs, Commissioner Joe. R. Ayers, Commissioner Ronnie Smith, and Commissioner David "Skip" Gurganus, Interim County Manager and County Attorney Benjamin R. Eisner, Clerk to the Board Julia Rease, and Others in attendance: Mayor of Robersonville Tina Brown and SheriffTim Manning Thej pledge was provided by Vice Chair Biggs and the invocation was provided by Commissioner Gurganus. Chairman Bond Jr. asked all elected officials to raise their hand and welcomed all in  Finance Officer Cindy Ange.  attendance.  AGENDA APPROVAL  Chairman Bond Jr. asked for the following changes to the agenda  Add. ABC Board Member Appointments to the Consent Agenda Add budget amendments #3 and #4 to New Business presentation before Public Comments.  Move the North Carolina Association ofCounty Commission Youth Voice Summit  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve the Agenda with the above stated changes, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  PRESENTATIONS  1. NCACC Youth Voice Summit - Martin County Boys & Girls Club Teen Representative President Dre Nix introduced herself as the Senior Vice President of Operations and Programs for the Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plain. President Nix also introduced the Martin County Junior Youth oft the Year, Ms. Nieenma Rogers and her mother who was the Unit Director ofthe Williamston club. Ms. Rogers was reportedly the first representative being sent to the North Ms. Nieenma Rogers greeted everyone and stated that she was the 2024 Junior oft the Year ofthe Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plain. Ms. Rogers reported that she was a teen member oft the Robersonville Boys & Girls Club. Ms. Rogers stated that she enjoyed service, the arts, and community service projects as a club member. Ms. Rodgers attended South Creek Middle School where she was an honor student with the National Beta Club. Ms. Rogers thanked the Board for  -Andrea Nix, Sr. Vice Pres. of Operations and Programs  Carolina Youth Summit from Martin County.  1    allowing her to speak and thanked the Board on the behalf of both Martin County clubs for the support. It was stated that having al Boys & Girls club ini the community gave her and other youth the ability to grow socially, academically, physical growth. One wish that Ms. Rodgers had was  for the club to have their own building one day.  The Board took a picture with Ms. Rogers and thanked her for her attendance.  PUBLIC COMMENTS  Mr. Paul Roberson - Tonight I am addressing our county's travel policy. Commissioner Biggs will take a County vehicle to the Tampa Convention. I remind her the travel policy prohibits stopping to pick up an ex-employee or taking others not on official County business. Mr. Bond and Mr. Smith will use personal vehicles and are not eligible for reimbursement under the County policy. According to the travel policy, the Board members should exercise the same care when incurring expenses as they would with their own money. Meals costing hundreds of dollars such as steak, seafood, and sushi are not acceptable. Our citizen's oversight group will review every expense. At the June meeting, Smith stated, "I don't drink alcohol. For someone to make a statement that Ior we use County money to buy alcohol. Everybody knows that' 's prohibited. That' 's against the law. "Um, in. January Smith was tooj perturbed by the crumbling house ofcards to notice my presentation that included a $326 charge to the Oyster Bar for food and alcoholic beverages on the former Manager's credit card. Smith claimed last month that it was aj personal card, but the credit card statement in front ofyou proves otherwise. Biggs and HR Manager Donna Zube present at the dinner should know that using County funds for alcohol is prohibited. Icall for an investigation and if appropriate, urge the Board to take disciplinary action against Biggs and the County Manager to take disciplinary against Zube. Last month, Smith made statements that voters and citizens should heed. When told he wasn'ttrusted, he replied, I'm only talking to those who trust me. He dismissed another citizen saying,ou' 're a spectator, you do not have any authority to ask questions. Smith, your arrogance towards citizens is appealing. In 2022, Congressman Butterfield presented a cardboard check to the County, which Mr. Bond confirmed never materialized in any real money for the County. Where is the $3.4 million? The average annual travel expenses for three Commissioners and the former Manager totaled $25,000.00. Did they bring back any money to the County from the NACO and NCACC meetings? No. Commissioner Gurganus confirmed in the June meeting that no money came to the County from the travel of the three Commissioners. Where is the fruit of these trips? Biggs, Bond, and Smith enjoy this NACO Convention. Biggs this is your last. Your poor choices as a Commissioner and your allegiance to Bond and Smith have decimated your political career. Bond it may be your last convention as a Board member. Smith, 2026 approaches quickly for you, provided you can withstand the ongoing lawsuits and investigations. The truth may not hinder these three, but Martin County citizens will remember these wasteful trips, especially the Texas trip you took while our hospital was closing, which you refused to return early from to deal with the crisis. At election time, the wrongdoing and harm that you caused our great County will be remembered. Mr. Heber Coltrain - 1031 Scenic Drive Williamston - Tonight I would like to read some captions, recent captions from our local newspaper. January 28, 2021; County Manager hired in surprise move. Two Commissioners say that they had no idea of the interview plan. June 16, 2022; County confirms that Bennett sought Anson County Commissioner Seat. Smith said that it  Thank you"  2    was not my responsibility to share the news. August 10, 2023; Martin General Hospital closed. Qourum quote read, because the County provided no response to the hospitals offer by the end of August 2nd, 2023. It moved forward with filing the bankruptcy petition. September 7, 2027, Martin County citizens discuss healthcare crisis. October 12th, 2023, Treasurer Folwell refers Bennett's raises to thel Local Government Commission. He said it's very disturbing. October 19th, 2023, lawsuit response deadline draws closer. Lawsuit was filed by six Martin County residents, served on Commissioners Biggs, Bonds, and Smith. October 26th, 2023, Multipole agencies probing Martin County situation. State Treasurers Office, Local Government Commission, District Attorney, North Carolina SBI. November 16, 2023, citizens demand Ronnie Smiths resignation. November 23rd, 2023, Attorney General involved in Martin General Hospital medical records case. November 30t,2023 the SBI serves warrant on Martin County. December 21, 2023, Dempsey Bonds elected Commissioners Chair by three-two vote before a courtroom overflowing with angry citizens holding up signs ofprotest, distrust, and displeasure. January 4th, 2024, sued Commissioners claim absolute immunity. February 22nd, 2024, Bond along with Commissioners Smith and Biggs currently defending a lawsuit alleging Open Meeting Law violations, they were served papers. March 7th, 2024, Bennett seeking compensation for his employment. May 16th, 2024, citizens again call for Commissioner resignations. May 23, 2024, former County Manager sues the County citing breach ofContract.. June 20th, 2023, Bond delivers commentary on his service. and it seemed to aggravate citizens in attendance, uh, along with other Commissioners. Eventually, you will no longer be County Commissioners, but your legacy will live on. A book willl be written. Iwill go into great detail about what transpired, during your time ofservice. It will be placed on a shelfin our Martin County library for all Martin County citizens to read and to serve as a reminder of how important it is to elect good people for our County  government."  Mr. Barry James "Greetings, Isaw on Channel 7 news and Iread in the newspaper that Martin County is going to receive some grant money for fiber lines. The guy showed me a map while ago. Brother Gurganus you are my neighbor, my close neighbor. I'm asking you and the Board to do all you guys can to make sure that the area that we stay in, at least get twol houses with fiber lines ini it. I brought me a Sling' TV and can'tget anything, it bzzzzzz. The monies there, soj please move them dots around. I'mj putting you ahead ofi it, amen. Also, that railroad track that's coming out of Piney Woods, can we get some blinking lights? She knows where it's at. That the lights would blink to say hey there's a railroad track. We do still want running water; we still want turnarounds on those dead end roads. Y'all come back there and visit us, you' ve got nothing to done on a Sunday evening. Y'all get on that dead end road and try to turn around. Again, please Mrs. Martha MacDonald - 20770 US Highway 64-Id like to address actions associated with the last Commissioners meeting. Chairman Bonds using his position as the chair to hijack the meeting for the purpose of a campaign speech. When doing sO, he threatened citizens and Commissioners with removal from the meeting when we objected to his self-serving rhetoric, even raising his gavel as a weapon. On that very night ofhis election to the Chair position, he was asked why he thought the time wasi right for him being hel had turned down the position multiple times of the past. He told a packed crowd of citizens that he could be the voice of reason for the Board and restore trust. He also said that he would not use the position in any political manner.  consider us. Consider us please. I thank all you guys."  3    Sir, you have failed miserably. At the same time, on the official Martin County gov webpage, as the last meeting was last time, Mary Kay Bond, wife ofthe Chairman was making comments to and about citizens that we must assume was approved by Chairman Bonds. Attacking a citizen with hearing loss is a direct violation oft the Americans with Disability Act. Calling a citizen as well as others who commented on the official site fools and racists, accusations ofa crime being committed by an elected official by growing cannabis. Attacking another Commissioner because oft the attire that he wears. Is she just speaking for your Mr. Chairman or is she speaking for the rest of your voting block? Again, Id call for monthly Commissioners expenditures to be added to the agenda and a summary of the meetings and conferences attended. Summary of the meetings and conferences does not mean bringing brochures that can be easily and readily be picked up. It means who, what, those attending, and the summary oft the discussion, and how it was beneficial to the Government and the citizens of Martin County. It has been reported that Emily Biggs gave as justification for her attending meetings as a lame duck being beneficial for her seeking reelection. Just another example of1 her arrogant, entitled attitude, using her position for her own political gain. shudder thinking of what kind ofrole model she is for the students in our County. Ia am submitting a request for expenditures of the Commissioners from November 23rd - June 2024. This will become ai monthly request. Iimplore all citizens here and those watching, to share this information with your family and friends. Election timei is quickly approaching. Aninformed voter is a smart voter. I call for the immediate resignation of Bond, Biggs, and Smith tonight."  Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mrs. MacDonald.  CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Biggs.  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Consent Agenda, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus stated, Mr. Chairman, while we wait for her to pass that out, the attire comments were directed to me and you know I don't pay that no mind, but truly if my attire offends anybody, I'm truly sorry. Idon't mean any disrespect to anyone towards anybody in the County, position, or anything else. Is seldom have time to get home from work to change clothes. Ifit offended Mr. Bond, I'm sorry, or anybody else for that matter. It's not to be disrespectful, and anybody listening. Ijust don'tl have time most the time, to get home, get a bath, and get up  here in a suit and tie."  Chairman Bond. Jr. stated that there was ai motion and a second on the floor to approve the consent agenda. Chairman Bond Jr. asked for all those in favor of the approving the consent agenda to  raise their right hand.  The Motion was Carried unanimously by raise of hands (5-0).  Minutes - October 25, 2023 Closed, October 30, 2023 Closed, November 8, 2023 Closed, November 16, 2023 Closed, February 14, 2024 Closed, June 27, 2024 Special;  1. Financial Report - June 2024  2. Tax Assessor - Tax Refund Request - June 2024  4    3. Tax Assessor- - Tax Relief Orders - June 2024-$6,327.26  Year Lname Levy 2023 PA 2023 Armstrong 2023 Baptist Church 2023 Baptist Church 2023 Episcopal Church St. Martin Total Real & Personal Releases  Fname  Reason  Value Total  Real & Personal Releases Access Medicine Compromise Clyde Henry III Piney Grove Piney Grove  $0.00 $3,659.22 $0.00 $604.03 $0.00 $104.04 $0.00 $346.80 $0.00 $1,613.17 $6,327.26 None $0.00  Clerk Error Compromise Approved Compromise Appeal Approved  VTS Refunds None  None Total VTS Refunds  None  None  Total Tax ReliefOrders - $6,327.26  4.' Tax Collector's Report -June 2024  Category 20  May $21,315.17 $4,738.69 $26,053.86 $0.00 $0.00 $26,053.86  05-21 Y-T-D $289,361.84 $50,201.27 $339,563.11 $0.00 $0.00 $339,563.11  Real Property Personal Property 25 Total Motor Vehicle Total MV All Total  30  5. Board Appointments/Reappointments a. Rivers East Workforce Development Board  The Rivers East Workforce Development Board - historically known as the Region Q Workforce Development Board (online at PeasPhwpes ofleaders from the private and public sectors. This organization hast the: authority to determine how NC Works Career Centers, Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) and federal/state Employment and' Training funds are used in the region (includes Beaufort, Bertie, Hertford, Martin and Pitt Counties). Stafftoi the Board monitors the progress of programs, coordinates planning, provides technical assistance to providers, and supports the WDB. The board has a standing Executive Committee and several ad-hoc committees. These groups meet separately to discuss any issues, review documents or bring ideas to the full Board that may Currently Mr. Jaret Warren of Metcore and Mr. Jeremiah Taylor of First National Bank serve as private sector board members on the Rivers East Workforce Development Board.  pertain to their specific areas.  5    Both seats are up for reappointment, which staff has recommended. If so approved, the 2- Mr. Dwayne Bake has served on the Martin Community College Board and staff recommended reappointing Mr. Baker for another 4 year term ending on July 31,2028 It was requested from ABC Board and staff that Mr. J.T. Flaming and Mr. Steve Cannon appointment dates needed to change to allow an equal amount of members' terms to expire  year terms would end on. July 31, 2026. b. Martin Community College  c.ABC Board  on as staggered basis. 6. Clerk Report  INTRODUCTION TO NEW EMPLOYEES - Moved to next month  OLD BUSINESS  1.C CAB Grant- Martin County CAB Scope of Work Award Decision Memorandum Interim County Manager Eisner gave an update on the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) Grant and informed the Board oft the memorandum for the scope of work award decision. Prior to this grant, there was a GREAT grant. In the agenda packet, there was an award decision that granted the project to the broadband company Brightspeed. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that there were five bids received by the North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT). The State selected Brightspeed by way of an evaluation team made oft two representatives from NCDIT, the Interim County Manager, and IT Director Jeb Gardner. Ar map was presented on a screen to display the areas that would be covered in the broadband project. The State reportedly identified CAB eligible locations within Martin County and the providers as part of the bid process, proposed projects of service areas from those CAB Grant eligible areas. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the project selected would serve a little over 94 % of the CAB Grant eligible areas in Martin County. The total cost for the project was around $6.9 million dollars or $3,300.00 per location. The build out time was stated to be approximately 2 years. There was an anticipation of subsequent rounds of CAB or other grants coming after this project. The award memo was submitted in the agenda packet for the Boards review. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the project selected was the best due to the amount ofa area covered and the fact that it also covered a variety of areas within the County. Commissioner Gurganus added that the areas not represented on the map were GREAT Grant locations that had already been awarded and the ARDOLF Grant, which would cover al large area tob be serviced. The ARDOLF Grant was stated to be a Federal opportunity that Martin County did not start. Commissioner Gurganus stated that the ARDOLF Grant had already started to provide services in Farm Life, Oak City, and parts ofE Bear Grass. It wasi reported that IT Director Gardner and Commissioner Gurganus asked NCDIT for maps that displayed all grants that were awarded and their catchment areas with road names. Commissioner Gurganus stated there wasa potential for another CAB Grant, there was a BEAD Grant, and possibly a third grant. Commissioner Gurganus reiterated NCDIT Nate Denny stating that his office was mandated to  6    provide broadband to everyone. The equipment being installed was reportedly taxable, which the County could generate revenue from, and the equipment was at no cost to the County. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the Board approved the use of $400,000.00 in American Recue Plan Act (ARPA) funding in aj past meeting. The Board also approved a second round of funding worth $400,000.00 and an up to amount of $8 million depending upon the County matches. Interim County Manager Eisner thanked the Board for this and stated that ifthe Board remained at $400,000.00, the project would have been limited to $4 million instead ofa  maximum of $8 million.  No vote was taken as this agenda item was presented as information only.  NEW BUSINESS  1.1 Resolution Execution of Kroger Opioid Settlement and Approving the Second Interim County Manager Eisner stated the County had been involved in an ongoing Opioid litigation. At this point there were a series of settlements and a settlement was reached with the Kroger Company. Some steps were required to be taken. The settlement reached was about $1.37 billion globally, which) North Carolina shared $40n million. The $401 million would then be divided amongst all plaintiffs from North Carolina in a way that was equitable. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that aj proposed resolution by the County authorizing the County Manager or County Attorney to execute any settlement documents on behalf of the County related to Kroger as well as a second document called the Supplement Agreement of Additional Funds (SAAF2). Interim County Manager Eisner reported that there was a memorandum of understanding of! how toj pool the resources and divvy the settlement funds back out. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that in thej prior settlement, there was a SAAF1.There was a draft SAAS2 submitted int the agenda packet. Interim County Manager Eisner stated the Board was being asked to approve of the Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve the Resolution of Kroger Opioid Settlement and Approving the Second Supplemental Agreement for Additional Funds, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0). Interim County Manager Eisner stated that when the SAAS2 form was finalized, the resolution approved of Interim County Manager Eisner to execute the document.  Supplemental Agreement for Additional Funds  resolution authorizing him to execute any settlement documents.  RESOLUTION BY THE COUNTY OF MARTIN  AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF KROGER OPIOID SETTLEMENT AND. APPROVING THE SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDS WHEREAS, the opioid overdose epidemic has taken the lives of more than 37,000 North WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has compounded the opioid overdose cnsls, increasing  Carolinians since 2000; and  levels of drug misuse, addiction, and overdose death; and  7    WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates thet total economic burden ofprescription opioid misuse alone int the United States is $78.5 billion a year, including the costs ofhealthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement; and WHEREAS, certain counties and municipalities in] North Carolina joined with thousands oflocal governments across the country to file lawsuits against opioid manutacturers, pharmaceutical distribution companies, and chain drug stores to hold those companies accountable for their WHEREAS, asettlement has been reached inl litigation against the Kroger Co. ("Kroger") as well as its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, and directors named ini the Kroger Settlement; and WHEREAS, representatives of local North Carolina governments, the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, and the North Carolina Department of Justice have negotiated and prepared a Second Supplemental Agreement for Additional Funds (SAAF-2) to WHEREAS, by joining the settlements and approving the SAAF-2, the state and local governments maximize North Carolina's share of opioid settlement funds to ensure the needed resources reach communities, as quickly, effectively, and directly as possible; and WHEREAS, it is advantageous to all North Carolinians for local governments, including Martin County and its residents, to sign onto the settlements and SAAF-2 and demonstrate solidarity in response to the opioid overdose crisis, and to maximize the share of opioid settlement funds WHEREAS, the SAAF-2 directs substantial resources over multiple years to local governments on the front lines oft the opioid overdose epidemic while ensuring that these resources are used in NOW,THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board ofCommissioners ofl Martin County hereby authorizes the County Manager or County Attorney to execute all documents necessary to enter into opioid settlement agreements with Kroger, to execute the SAAF-2, and toj provide such  misconduct; and  provide for the equitable distribution of the proceeds of these settlements; and  received both in the state and this county to help abate the harm; and  an effective way to address the crisis;  documents to Rubris, the Implementation Administrator.  Adopted this the_ Dempsey Bond. Jr., Chair Martin County Board ofCommissioners  day of  2024.  ATTEST:  SEAL  Julia S. Rease, Clerk to the Board  8    2. Contract Agreement Between Martin- -Tyrrell- Washington (MTW)Health Department Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the County entered into a similar contract last year, but it was an agreement between the County and the health department for the use of Opioid Settlement funds and authorization oftheir strategies to use thei funding. Interim County Manager  and Martin County  Eisner reported that the total authorization being sought was $42,508.51.  Contract Agreement and Martin County  Marim-lyrelWastingon District Health Department (MTW)  MTW District Health Department hereby agrees to the following: 1. Provide one Health Educator II focused on opioids.  2. To implement all activities and services of the authorized Naloxone Distribution and Harm Reduction SSP strategies, including reaching desired outcomes, tracking progress and indicators, engaging the community, and maintaining the sustainability oft the Hope Exchange  harm reduction program.  3. Provide needed information for the Opioid Impact Report. Martin County hereby agrees to the following:  LA Authorize the expenditure of Opioid Settlement Funds governed by the Memorandum of Agreement Between the State ofNorth Carolina and Local Governments on Proceeds Relating to  the Settlement ofOpioid Litigation ("MOA") as follows: a. First authorized strategy: Naloxone Distribution i. Strategy is included in Exhibit A oft the MOA as Strategy 7 ii. Amount authorized for this strategy: $21,254.31  iii. Period during which expenditure may take place: January 1, 2025, through December iv. Description of the program, project, or activity: Funding will support al Health Educator IIp position focused on opioids and a naloxone distribution project through our "Hope Exchange" harm reduction program. These funds will be used to match funds from Vital V. Provider: Marin-lymel-Washington District Health Department b. Second authorized  31, 2025  Strategies to support naloxone distribution. strategy: Harm Reduction SSP  i. Strategy is included in Exhibit A ofthel MOA as Strategy 9 ii. Amount authorized for this strategy: $21,254.30  iii. Period during which expenditure may take place: January 1, 2025, through iv. Description of the program, project, or activity: Funding will support a Health Educator II position focused on opioids and a naloxone distribution project through our "Hope Exchange" harm reduction program. These funds will be used as a match  December 31,2 2025  for funds from Vital Strategies to support harm reduction SSPs. V. Provider: Marin-lymei-Washingion District Health Department  2. Authorize the expenditure ofthe total dollar amount of Opioid Settlement Funds appropriated  across the above-named and authorized strategies of $42,508.61.  9    Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Contract Agreement between Martin Tyrrell- Washington (MTW)Health Department and Martin County, with a Second by Vice-ChairBiggs. Commissioner Gurganus commented that he was asked to serve on the MTW Health Department Board and he understood that the health department had been strained partially due to closure of Martin General Hospital. Commissioner Gurganus stated that a company called United Health Care was $270,000.00 in the rears, which strained the health department as well as prior management hoping that things would get better without looking at the real picture and rearranging and or shutting services down. Commissioner Gurganus stated that the MTW Health Department Interim Director Vickey Manning was running the health department as Interim and had to make some hard decision, in which one was facing the fact Home Healthcare could not be sustained because of some prior issues and that there was not enough funding to sustain it. The financial issues were brought to the health department Board and Home healthcare was closed. Commissioner Gurganus informed the audience of what Home healthcare was and stated that there were plans to open it back up under private care. It was stated that the MTW Health Department Interim Director Manning had a plan to fix the issue that she was discussing with their Board. Commissioner Gurganus reported that Congressman Don Davis agreed to try tol help receive funding from United Health Care in this matter. Commissioner Gurganus stated that Congressman Davis was asked some months ago, but no funding was received as of yet. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he was not saying that Congressman Davis was not trying. Commissioner Gurganus stated that if anyone saw him to remind Congressman Davis that the MTW Health Department was still short in about $ 270,000.00 that they were owed and hold him accountable for helping receive the funding. Commissioner Gurganus asked everyone to thank the health department employees as they were doing a good job. Commissioner Gurganus asked MTW Health Department Interim Director Manning to correct him ifhe was in wrong in stating that shel hired a primary care physician due to the loss ofclinics, thel loss ofp primary care providers causing thei inability of patients to get their prescriptions. Commissioner Gurganus thanked MTW  The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  Health Department Interim Director Manning for her services.  3. AR Resolution by the County of Martin to Direct Opioid Settlement Funds  The MTW Health Department provided a resolution for the County of Martin to direct the expenditure ofOpioid Settlement funding for certain strategies outlined in the resolution. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that this was the second step and the first step was the previously approved agreement between the County of Martin and the health department. An example ofthe strategies included in the resolution was the distribution ofl Naloxone also referred to as Narcan  through a program called the Hope Exchange.  A RESOLUTION BY THE COUNTY OF MARTIN  TO DIRECT THE EXPENDITURE OF OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUNDS WHEREAS Martin County has joined national settlement agreements with companies engaged in the manufacturing, distribution, and dispensing of opioids, including settlements with  10    drug distributors Cardinal, McKesson, and AmersourceBergen, and the drug maker Johnson &  Johnson and its subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals.  WHEREAS the allocation, use, and reporting of funds stemming from these national settlement agreements and certain bankruptcy resolutions ("Opioid Settlement Funds") are governed by the Memorandum of Agreement Between the State of North Carolina and Local Governments on Proceeds Relating to the Settlement ofOpioid Litigation ("MOA").  WHEREAS Martin County has received Opioid Settlement Funds pursuant to these national settlement agreements and deposited the Opioid Settlement Funds in a separate special  revenue fund as required by section D ofthe MOA. WHEREAS section E.6 oft the MOA states: E.6. Process for drawing from special revenue funds.  a. Budget item or resolution required. Opioid Settlement Funds can be used for a purpose when the Governing Body includes in its budget or passes a separate resolution authorizing the expenditure of a stated amount of Opioid Settlement Funds for that purpose or those b. Budget item or resolution details. The budget or resolution should (i) indicate that it is an authorization for expenditure of opioid settlement funds; (ii) state the specific strategy or strategies the county or municipality intends to fund pursuant to Option. A or Option B, using the item letter and/or number in Exhibit A or Exhibit Bi to identify each funded strategy, and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in alignment with the NC MOA, Martin County  purposes during a specified period.  (iii) state the amount dedicated to each strategy for a stated period. authorizes the expenditure of opioid settlement funds as follows:  1.F First strategy authorized  a. Name of strategy: Naloxone Distribution b. Strategy is included in Exhibit A d. Amounted authorized for this strategy: $ End date December 31,2024  Item letter and/or number in Exhibit A or Exhibit B to the MOA: Strategy 7 Period during which expenditure may take place: Start date January 1, 2024, through Description of the program, project, or activity: Funding will support a Health Educator IIp position focused on opioids and a naloxone distribution project through our "Hope Exchange" harm reduction program. These funds will be used to match funds from Vital  Strategies to support naloxone distribution.  g. Provider: Marin-ymel-Washingion District Health Department  2. Second strategy authorized  a. Name of strategy: Harm Reduction SSP b. Strategy isi included in Exhibit. A  Item letter and/or number in Exhibit A or Exhibit B to the MOA: Strategy 9  11    d. Amounted authorized for this strategy: $21,254.30  e. Period during which expenditure may take place: Start date January 1, 2024, through Description of the program, project, or activity: Funding will support a Health Educator IIj position focused on opioids and the "Hope Exchange" harm reduction program. These funds will be used as a match for funds from Vital Strategies to support harm reduction  End date December 31, 2024.  SSPs.  g. Provider: Martin-lymel-Washingon District Health Department  The total dollar amount of Opioid Settlement Funds appropriated across the above-named and  authorized strategies is $42,508.61.  Adopted this  day ofJuly 2024.  Dempsey Bond, Jr. Chairman Martin County Board of Commissioners  Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve the Resolution by the County of Martin to Direct Opioid Settlement Funds, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was  Carried unanimously (5-0).  4. Resolutions Approving 2023 Local Water Supply Plans for District #1 and District #2 Interim County Manager Eisner reported that this agenda item wasi forinformation purposes only. The resolutions included in the agenda packet were needed to approve the Local Water Supply Plan. The resolution for District #1 was listed as complete, but the resolution for District #2 had aj provisional approval, which had not been received before the Board meeting. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that this agenda item would be held off until the final approval was received from the State level. Interim County Manager stated that the Water District Manager No vote was taken as this agenda item was presented for informational purposes only.  was doing a great job in the department and in navigating the various plans.  5. NC Forest Service 2024-2025 County Cooperative Agreement  Interim County Manager Eisner reported that this agenda item was in regards to the annual contract between the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Cultural Services and the County for forestry services. As aj part oft the budget process, Martin County appropriates funding Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve the NC Forest Service 2024-2025 County Cooperative Agreement, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was Carried  to the N.C. Forestry Service and enter into an annual contract.  unanimously (5-0).  12    6. - Bargain Shoppe Discussion  Interim County Manager Eisner reported the County having multiple buildings with one being the Bargain Shoppe, which had been closed a while due to renovations. The roofneed repair and there was water damage reported. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that there were internal discussions had on how to address the damages and renovation. $37,000.00 was appropriated in the recently approved budget to repair the building. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that staffw was looking into roofing repair estimates and entering the process ofb bids. After this process moved forward, Interim County Manager Eisner estimated that the project would take about 3-4 week. From there, the interior of the Bargain Shoppe would be assessed for any other repairs to work towards reopening it. Interim County Manager Eisner anticipated presenting a budget No vote was taken as this agenda item was presented for informational purposes only.  amendment when an appropriate estimate was received.  7. Green For Life (GFL) Contractual Service Adjustment  Interim County Manager Eisner stated that Green For Life (GFL) provided an annual notice for an increase as stated in the contract between Martin County and GFL to provide sanitation and trash services. The contract was entered into in 2016, renewed in 2021, and would end in 2026. There was a section of the contract that referred to annual adjustment, which was based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This year the annual adjustment was a 3.3 % increase and would be Commissioner Ayers asked if this increase was included in the contract and Interim County Manager Eisner agreed. Interim County Manager stated that the increase was noted in Section 8 of the contract to occur annually in July based on a Consumer Price Index (CPI) and would not Commissioner Gurganus commented that the GFL Manager, Mr. Willie Brown, was a fine man and that he served on a Board with him. It was reported that Commissioner Gurganus mentioned issues with the services to Mr. Brown and he didn't know ifs something could be worked out an arrangement, but the services were being paid for by the citizens and the County. Commissioner Gurganus reported receiving complaints from the elderly population regarding new trash cans. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he gave two ofh his trashcans to two elderly men that had been dragging their trashcans up to the end oft their roads and they informed him that they had been to the GFL Office for a new trashcan with no success. The lids o the trashcans were reportedly torn off. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he had not met the truck drivers, but when he waved, they were some of the nicest people and that they were good people. Commissioner Gurganus stated that something needed to be down with the busted trashcans as the services provided were being paid for by the citizens and the citizens didn't need to ask and plead for the services. Commissioner Gurganus suggested a driver that could go around picking up the damaged Chairman Bond Jr. asked if Commissioner Gurganus mentioned his suggestion to Mr. Brown. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he mentioned his suggestion to Mr. Brown, he was sure that Mr. Brown took his suggestion into consideration, but it was probably one ofa million things he  reflected ini invoices effective July 2024.  toe exceed 4%.  trashcans and replacing them with new trashcans.  13    had on his mind. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he still heard and saw the issues and he still had to haul trashcans to the office for others. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he didn'tknow ifit was because he was a Commissioner, but when he went to the office he received services. Commissioner Gurganus asked that the staff were too good to get a bad name, but it was Commissioner Ayers stated that he spoke with Mr. Brown about this issue and he thought there was a staffing shortage, but that was not the County's problem as there was a contract in place for them toj provide services. Commissioner Ayers stated that ift the company needed to give the Williamston office more staff, this needed tol be done. Commissioner Ayers added that there were al lot of complaints, but he did speak with Mr. Brown and he did not see much improvement. Commissioner Ayers stated that this needed to be kept in mind when discussing the upcoming Therewas no vote taken as this agenda item was presented forinformational purposes only.  something that needed to be addressed.  3% increase.  8. Register of Deeds - NC OSBM Grant  Interim County Manager Eisner reported that a grant request was presented in aj previous meeting for the Register of Deeds Office to preserve and digitalize the department's records. The first grant required matching funds of $2,000.00. There was a second round of funding for this grant presented and Interim County Manager Eisner stated that a grant match was required of $ 2,714.00. The Register of Deeds Office reportedly had a sufficient budget appropriation in the department's budget for the first match and subsequent match. The Register ofI Deeds Office was requesting the approval ofthe release ofthe first grant match of $2,000.00 with approval to apply for the second grant by using an Automation Enhancement fund to cover the grant match of Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve ofthel NC OSBM Grant matching funds with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  $2,714.00.  9. Part-Time Position - Death Investigator  Int the past, the County contracted with an outside party to serve as Death Investigator, with that role proving to be very helpful to emergency management services, first responders, and law enforcement. The outside party who served in that role has decided to retire, creating an opening. Given the importance of this role, it was requested that the position be converted from one ofa contracted service to a part-time position. The Board was asked for the approval of the creation of the part time position. The proposed salary of the position was stated to be $12,000.00 ($1,000.00 per month), which was already appropriated from last year since the position was  contracted out previously.  Commissioner Gurganus asked ifbenefits were included in the $12,000.00 salary  Human Resources Director Donna Zube stated the position would get no benefits and the County  would pay 7.6 % oftaxes on top of the $12,000.00  14    Interim County Manager Eisner passed out the duties of the position to the Board.  Commissioner Gurganus asked if the only change the form in which $12,000.00 would be spent Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Approve of the change of the Death Investigator to a part time position, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried  and Interim County Manager Eisner agreed.  unanimously (5-0). 10. NCACC Voting Delegate  The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) Annual Conference will take placei inl Forsyth County, NCd on August 8-10,2024. The NCACCs117th. Annual Conference Business Session will bel held inl Forsyth County on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 2 p.m., with each county entitled to one vote on items that come before the membership, including the election of the NCACC Second Vice President. NCACC Constitution, Article VI: "On all questions, including the election ofofficers, each county represented shall be entitled to one vote, which shall be the majority expression of the delegates ofthat county. The vote ofany county in good standing may be cast by any one of its County Commissioners who is present at the time the vote is taken; provided,ifno commissioner bej present, such vote may be cast by another county official, elected ora appointed, who holds elective office or an appointed position in the county whose vote is being cast and who is formally designated by the Board of County Commissioners. These provisions shall likewise govern district meetings of the Association. A county in good standing is defined as one which has paid the current year's dues." The voting delegate designations must be Interim County Manager Eisner stated that ai reminder email was sent to the County Manager and County Clerk listserve regarding the need to designate a County voting delegate for the NCACC Commissioner Smith made a Motion to elect Chairman Dempsey Bond Jr. to be the NCACC Voting Delegate, with a Second by Vice Chair Biggs. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Vote:  submitted by Wednesday, Aug. 7,2024.  Conference before August 7th and opened the floor for ai motion.  Ayes: Chairman Bond Jr, Vice Chair Biggs, and Commissioner Smith  Nays: Commissioners Ayers and Gurganus  11. Planning & Zoning Administration Services Contract with Mid -East Commission The Mid - East Commission operates to provide planning and technical assistance to Local Governments in Region Q and the County has requested the assistance of the Mid East Commission. Ifapproved, the Mid-East Commission and the County mutually agree on the scope Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the proposed planning and zoning contract between the County and the Mid-East Commission would allow the County to pay for services only if used. Interim County Manager Eisner gave an example stating that if a developer wanted to conduct a large construction, the contract with Mid East Commission planning and zoning  ofwork outlined in the contract.  15    administration services to make sure that the County is in compliance. Interim County Manager Commissioner Ayers asked if there would be any retainers and Interim County Manager Eisner responded that there would bei none and read aj portion ofthe contract that referred tol how services Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Planning & Zoning Administration Services Contract with Mid -Fast Commission, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The  Eisner stated that there would be no flat fees.  would bej paid.  Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 12. Budget Amendment(s) Budgetl.Amendmenl- #1  The hospitalization expense for the position shared by Soil and Water and the Co-operative Extension was mistakenly noti included int the 2024-20251 budget. This budgetamendment corrects  that oversight.  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-0I  BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  30, 2025.  Increase $4,106 $4,106  Decrease  Economic & Physical Development Co-operative Extension Soil & Water  This will result in an increase of $8,212 in the expenditures of the General Fund. To provide an  increase ini revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Tax  Ad Valorem Tax  $8,212  Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Motion by Commissioner Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Ayers to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 10th day of. July 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  (5-0)  For Your Information  Increase Decrease  16    1149500 518300 1149600518300 1100090499099 Budgel.Amendment- #2  Hospitalization Hospitalization Fund Balance  $4,106 $4,106 $8,212  One oft the vehicles ordered by SheriffTim Manning in the 23-24 fiscal year did not arrive before year end. The vehicle is scheduled to be here in late July or August at this time. This amendment  would reappropriate the funds to the current fiscal year.  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-02  BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June Section I. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  30, 2025.  Increase $42,000  Decrease  Public Safety Sheriff  This will result in an increase of $42,000 ini the expenditures oft the General Fund. Toj provide an increase in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Fund Balance Appropriation  $42,000  Section 2. Copies oft this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the  Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  Motion by Commissioner Smith and Seconded by Commissioner Gurganus to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 10th day of. July 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously  (5-0)  For your information  INC DEC $42,000 $42,000  Capital Outlay Fund Balance Appropriation BudgetAmendment- - #3  1143100 551000 1100090 499099  This budget amendment was in regards to the Register of Deeds for their contract with Logan Systems, which was a vendor for computer indexing services used in the office every day. The year over year contractual increase amounted to an additional $4,552 for the upcoming year. The previous year's increases were allocated using the Automation Enhancement and  Preservation fund.  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#3  17    BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made toi the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending  June 30, 2025.  Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  Increase $4,522  Decrease  Computerized Indexing  This will result in an increase of$4,522 in the expenditures oft the General Fund-Register of Deeds. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be  changed.  Fund Balance Appropriation  $4522  Section 2. Copies ofthis budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Motion by Commissioner Smith and Seconded by Commissioner Gurganus to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 10th day of] July 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  (5-0)  For Your Information 1100090499099  Increase $4,522 $4,522  Decrease  Automation Enhancement-ROD 1141800- 534300  Fund Balance  Budget Amendment- #4  The Board of Commissioners recently approved of a contract with Criterion Health budget amendment sought toi increase the appropriation of the funds related to the contract  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#4  BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending  June 30, 2025.  Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  Increase $99,500  Decrease  Consulting Srv Hospital  This will result in an increase of $99,500 in the expenditures oft the General Fund- County Commissioners. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following  revenues will be changed.  18    Fund Balance Appropriation  $99,500  Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Motion by Commissioner Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Ayers to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 10th day ofJuly 2024. The Motion was Carried Unanimously  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  (5-0).  For Your Information 1100090499099  Increase $99,500 $99,500  Decrease  Consulting Srv-Hospital 1141100519903  Fund Balance CLOSED SESSION(S) Unanimously (5-0).  At_7:56 p.m., Vice Chair Biggs made the Motion to Enter Closed Session 1. N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11. (a)(6) Personnel with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried At 8:10 p.m., Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Enter Closed Session 1. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried  Unanimously (5-0). OPEN SESSION  Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement - June 2024  Interim County Manager Eisner reported that his monthly financial statement for his role as Interim County Manager was reviewed by the Finance Office, Human Resources Director, and presented to the Board in closed session for their review. The monthly financial statement totals  are as stated: Mileage: Total:  Hours ofv work: $3,451.50  $ 463.74 $3,915.24  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the June 2024 Interim County Manager Financial Statement with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried  unanimously (5-0).  BOARD REPORTS/COMMISSIONERS COMMENIS-NONE  ADJOURNMENT  19    At: 8:12 p.m. Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Adjourn the meeting, with a Second by  Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  Clair, Dempsey Board of Commissioners S3  Martin County  Bone  to Board, Julia S. Rease  ah  20