June 12, 2024  The Martin County Board of Commissioners met in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioner's Boardroom at the Martin County Governmental Center,  305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina.  ASSEMBLY  Present in the Boardroom: Chairman Dempsey Bond Jr., Vice Chairman Emily Biggs Commissioner Joe. R. Ayers, Commissioner Ronnie Smith, and Commissioner David "Skip" Gurganus, Interim County Manager/ County Attorney Benjamin Eisner, Clerk to the Board Julia Others Present: Town of Bear Grass Mayor Charlotte Griffin, Sheriff Tim Manning, Mayor of Chairman Bond Jr. called the meeting to order at 7:00j p.m. Commissioner Biggs led the Pledge of Chairman Bond Jr., extended a welcome to all in attendance and asked if elected officials could Chairman Bond Jr. asked and wanted to speak to the audience on thel behalfofhimselfas Chairman oft the Board. Chairman Bond Jr. stated that he wanted to talk about the things that weren't said and the questions that had been asked. Chairman Bond Jr. stated that he would try to remain in "Ihave spent; Ihave spent 26-27 years representing Martin County, 1983-2011 way beforeIever thought about becoming a County Commissioner. At that time I was asked by, I haven't done everything that' s happened to my life by myself. There have been other people in my life that have influenced me, they've guided me, and who have helped me along the way. At that time in 1983, there was a Commissioner by the name of Dan Bowen and there was another Commissioner in 2011 Hallet Davis. Those two Commissioners paid a very important role in my life. Dan Bowen asked me, he said,oung man, he said, you are working with DMV?Isaid,; yes sir, DMV. He: said, we need you to come and serve on this Board. I said, what Board is it? He said, The Southern Albemarle Board. Now to some ofyou, you may not know what the Southern Albemarle Boardis. The Southern Albemarle Board had been around since 1935. Martin County decided to join it and thej people that made up that Board were from Dare County, Tyrrell County, Washington County, Martin County, Hyde County, and Beaufort County and I went in as a delegate for Martin County because I was asked by the Commissioners I would serve. I have served on that Board from that day until now. I got tol be the President oft that Board in 2008. Iserved several years on that Board as the Vice Chair for Martin County and what that organization was all about; roads, bridges, airports, waterways, anything dealing with transportation. I got a chance to travel because I was already covering the Eastern part of the State since I was working with DMV.Iknew a lot about  Rease, and Finance Officer Cindy Ange.  Robersonville Tina Brown, Town of Williamston Gianpoalo Allegiance, and Commissioner Gurganus provided the invocation.  raise their hands to be recognized.  the guidelines. His statement is as follows:  1    the roads. Iknew what roads needed tol be worked and what roads needed tol be fixed. Iknew what One of the goals that Martin County had at that time was to four lane Highway 64. They wanted ai four lane from Raleigh. They wanted a four lane from Williamston, at that time to Columbia and that was one of the highways that we pushed. Highway 17 was another road they wanted to four lane. Another road that was being pushed here in Martin County was the 125 Bypass. That was being talked about. Prison Camp Road was being talked about. Highway 17 definitely was being talked about. Highway 17 ladies and gentlemen. At this point, there is only about 39 miles left to be four- laned between the Virginia line and South Carolina line. II have attended those meetings and represented Martin County whenever I could. I got a chance to meet people along the way, work with the Governors, work with the people in the, in the, in, the House of Representatives in North Carolina and Washington D.C. I've had the chance to do that. One of the things working with highways, that most of us in here don't know is, you can't talk about where ai road is going. Ifyou talk about where aj road is going, somebody can go out and buy the land up where the road is coming. So, you've got to be quiet. There's some things you can't talk about on certain When I got, when I came in to be elected, and when I won the election in 2012, I was already serving like Isaid, on the Southern Albemarle. I was on the Travel & Tourism. I got the chance to be the President on that Board because they were forming that around about that time also. The Mid East Board, Pitt County Area Transit. At that time, I had retired from the State and I was working with Pitt County Schools and Pitt County did not have a van system or bus system like we got. The gray buses was in the city of Greenville, but there were no vans and buses for the outside areas. I served on that Board for 14 years. 14 years. I also served on State Employees Credit Union Advisory Board for 25 years. Every bank they opened in Greenville, I was on the Board. Ifinally got a chance to come to Martin County; Icould not get on the Board for Martin County. This is my last term. I was appointed to the Martin Community College by Governor Beverly Purdue and I was serving those 4 years and after I won the election in 2012, I was asked ifI would be the representative on the Board ....for the Martin Community College Board and that was in 2012 and that was about 8 years on that Board. After becoming a Commissioner, Iv was asked to resign from all the Boards that I was serving on and that I would bej placed on the Boards, they wanted me to serve on. The Boards that I was appointed to was the Jail Board, the Health Board. Id didn't stay on the Health Board too long because it was a conflict. It was always on the night when Ihad another Board meeting. AsIs said, Iwas on thel Martin Community College Board asar representative from the Board of Education. Also on the Board, the ABC Board, the Mid East The Mid East RPO, this is, this is where Hallet Davis came in. Davis, before I won that election, Hallet Davis came to me and he had a notebook. He said, Dempsey, he said, will you take this and go over there to. Mid-East. They are getting ready toj form the RPO. He said, Idon' tA know anything about it. He said,. you know more about this than Ido. He said, take this book and study and go over there. Now ladies and gentlemen, when Ileft to go over there to Mid-East RPOIb had al half avote, one-halfofa vote, because I was representing Southern Albemarle and not Martin County  Ihad to do on that Board. Highway 64, at that time was two lanes.  committees.  RPO.  2    at that time. There was another lady from Washington County, um, Beaufort County, named Ms. Betty Moore. She was representing Southern Albemarle. She had al halfa a vote; I had al halfa vote. We would go to the meetings, I would say to her, Ms. Moore, is it anything on this agenda that you would want to vote for that'si in Beaufort County. She'd say, Dempsey, Idon'tsee anything. Doy you. see anything. you want to cast the one vote from. Martin County? We worked that way. We worked that way ladies and gentlemen and in 2012, when I won that election, I was approached the next day after that election and asked would I serve as the TAC Chair. The TAC Chairman, T.A.C, is the Transportation Advisory Committee. The TCC is the Technical Coordinating Committee. That coordinating committee is made up of representatives, there's supposed to be people on the Board representing every one of the Towns in Martin County. There's s supposed to be representation there. I guarantee you Martin County does not have representatives for all ofthe Towns, they are not there. I was asked to take the TAC Chair because I was a Commissioner. The person that was the TCC Chair was a Commissioner from Beaufort County and I accepted that position and I served that position and I'm still the present Chairman for the TAC Committee. Ladies and Gentlemen, what you don't realize is, the roadways in this area that we talked about in the Southern Albemarle all the way up until now, those roads are finally being built and being constructed. When youl look around at the 125 Bypass that's already finished. That was already on the drawing board, way back in the 80's. Highway 17, has been on the drawing Board for the last Prison Camp Road is being worked on now and al lot ofu usi in here don'tknow, where does Highway 125 end right now? Where does it end? It ends at Bob Martin. The next time you go to Bob Martin and you' re going down Prison Camp Road, look there, it says end of125. How did 125 get to end there? It's got to end there because the people on the Board at that time, along with Senator Martin built that horse arena out there. All of that was in the plan. There was a plan for that horse arena to be out there on Bear Grass Road, but they brought it back on this side. Ok?. And there's a plan, Prison Camp Road is being built now because there's a plan for that road too one of these days. That road is going to continue on towards Greenville. But, all of this has happened because, and I'm not taking the full credit here, because I was at the table. Ladies and Gentlemen, ifyou' re not on the table, you are on the menu, you have tol be at the table. Some more I got to add here too. Audience member Mr. Heber Coltrain stated asked Chairman Bond. Jr. to save this information for Chairman Bond Jr. told Sheriff Tim Manning that he was asking Mr. Coltrain to stop. Chairman Bond Jr. told Mr. Coltrain that he did not interrupt him from speaking and he did not want Mr. Commissioner Ayers stated that as aj point of order, the subject made by the Chairman was not on the agenda, he felt that it was very inappropriate, and he would appreciate it if the Board could Chairman Bond. Jr. told SherittManning that he needed order and hel had some more things to say.  50 something years.  his campaign because there was al lot of other business to discuss.  Coltrain to interrupt him and that he had not started the meeting.  carry on with the business that was on the agenda.  3    Chairman Bond Jr. continued his statement, "I have been on the Executive Board of the State of North Carolina for the last four years. There was a question int thej paper about whether the meeting we had here in Williamston was a real meeting or a meeting, meeting. There are 18; there are 18 districts in North Carolina. District 2 is made up of Hertford County, Martin County, Bertie County, Beaufort County, and Pitt. The people at the state level come down here for one reason, tocollect information from each County. Now, the paper said that there were three people at that meeting, Commissioner Biggs, Commissioner Smith, and myself, but there was a fourth person Commissioner Gurganus stated that this was fine with him because he was not interested in being "Chairman Bond Jr. and Commissioner Gurganus had some dialogue before Chairman Bond Jr. continued to explain about the District meeting, "The reason they were there, they wanted the information, what three things that they, that we wanted to give to them to take back to Raleigh. They were trying to get the three things from each county to carry back, to put in to go to the Legislature. The three things we sent from Martin County were to reopen our hospital, broadband, and water expansion for water in the Dardens/Pineywoods area. Those were the three things we sent back to Raleigh. Now, they had a meeting yesterday in Raleigh. I didn't go to that meeting yesterday, because I had another meeting that night. The steering committees were supposed to put that together and get it ready whenever they present that to the Legislature. That is the way Inc conclusion, I would like to say just this. You have been asking for ai report from me. From my trip from Washington D.C. Ihave that report here and I've got it all stacked up here. When I went to Washington D.C. and you were concerned and wanted to talk about travel. Iv went to Washington D.C., I always go to the Agricultural Committee. The Agriculture Committee is the biggest business in Martin County and you don't hear anyone talking about how the farmers get looked after or whatever, but there is something in that bill for everybody and if you come all the way down and you look at Social Services, the food stamps and everything comes under thel Department ofA Agriculture. USDA departments are under Agriculture, free lunch in the schools system. Ify you go to that one committee, you will learn everything that we need here in Martin County. In conclusion, Iwould like tot thank you for listening and att this time we will go on with the meeting." 97 Chairman Bond Jr. gave a packet of information form the NACO Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. to the Board Clerk and asked that if anyone wanted to see them, that it was  there. Commissioner Gurganus was there also, but they didn't mention that."  seen and the results satisfied him.  you get things done.  granted.  AGENDA APPROVAL  Chairman Bond Jr. asked for the approval oft the agenda with the addition ofa contract under New Business as Item #9 and asked ifthere were any other items that needed to be added to the agenda.  4    Commissioner Ayers asked ifthe contract was an audit contract and Chairman Bond Jr. agreed. Commissioner Smith the Motion to Approve the agenda with the addition oft the Audit Contract,  with a Second by Vice Chair Biggs. Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0).  PUBLIC COMMENTS  1.Mr. Paul Roberson - "Board members and citizens. Ihave remained silent since the January Board meeting, in which I addressed the travel expenses of three Commissioners. During the meeting, I was verbally attacked and threatened by Commissioner Smith. He claimed that my financial information was incorrect and that I should've verified facts before presenting them. I stated that I would recheck and publicly apologize ifinformation presented was erroneous. Ifiled as second records request, which confirmed that the information Ij presented in. January was 100% accurate. Waiting for this request is why I have been silent, not because of Smiths attack or intimidation tactics. Let's revisit some of the facts. Number one, Smiths trip to D.C. in 2022; Smiths Credit card was charged $920.22 for a hotel room at the Hilton. The charge was billed to Smith at an address of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, the NCACC. According to the NCACC Board of Directors handbook, the organization should've reimburse these expenses. I requested any document showing reimbursement to the County by the NCACC orany other party. The second request revealed no responsive documents were identified. No reimbursement for the County took place. In the January Smith claimed, quote "All of those receipts were, paid for by the State Association and Idon'thave to show you anything. ? Smith has forgotten his duty to ensure an open and transparent government. The question remains, was Smith neglectful in getting these expenses reimbursed on the behalf of the County or did he directly receive reimbursement from the NCACC. Item two, Smiths County credit card statement, June 22. The statement showed a plane ticket purchased for his wife for $916.20 to accompany him on a trip to Denver. Purchasing a spouses plane ticket with the County funds is a misappropriation of taxpayer money. The reimbursement he made nearly 60 days later constitutes an illegal unapproved government loan. This is a prosecutable crime under North Carolina law. Item three, Ms. Biggs February 22 credit card statement. Biggs shows food expenses in] D.C. during the NACO Conference. However, her statement does not include al hotel bill. Is sent a follow up public records request asking if a hotel bill was accidently left off of the information provided. Again, no responsive documents were identified. So where did she stay during her trip. Allegations have been made up of an improper relationship between Ms. Biggs and the former County Manager influencing her votes as a Board member and constituting a major conflict ofi interest. Based on these facts, I along with many concerned citizens call for Commissioners Smith and Biggs to immediate resignation. Should they fail to resign, I call for the Chair to exercise the Boards authority in the North Carolina general statutes and the Board policy to initiate an inquiry and investigation into these matters. That's the only thing I had planned, but ifI have time, have one more thing to say. Mr. Bond, I appreciate your service to the County, but that was a totally Mr. Robert Mack Stalls - 1125 Bobby Roberson Road, Williamston "On January 7, 2009, thel Board ofCommissioners held ai regular meeting in this room. The minutes for it being recorded  inappropriate campaign speech. Thank you"  5    with the Register of Deeds in Commissioners minute book 17, pages 1-19, excuse me, 1-14.One item of business was the establishment of the Special Board of Equalization and Review. Quote "The good and the benefit to the people of1 Martin County" As he told them in aj previous meeting, Manager Overman, presented a draft resolution including alternatives, recommendations, and comments. The alternatives included the number of members and the pathway for appeals. It purposely called for members having specific occupations and skill sets, designing a group, an unique group that was tailored to the duties being delegated by the Commissioners. The hearing oft tax appeals being one. Options for the path oft the appeals from equalization and review were 1. The Board of Commissioners or 2. Property Tax Commission. Following a discussion, a motion was made to adopt a resolution, quote "with af five member Board and all appeals goes directly to the Property Tax Commission' - End quote. The Board approved it unanimously. The minutes were signed by the Board Clerk and Board Chairman, Ronnie Smith. Take it in to context the minutes and resolution are clear. Formal appeals start with this Special Board ofl Equalization and Review, then shall quote "Go directly to the Property Tax Commission". This Board, this Board's actions are in violation of this governing resolution and portions ofN.C.G.S. 105-322 and 105-325. Mr. Chairman, by what authority are you holding a current hearing on a property tax appeal? Ih have copies for everybody oft the minutes, of that resolution, and the general statutes as well." Mr. Stalls passed out the documents and Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mr. Stalls.  3. Mr. Billy Leggett - 1528 Mill End Road, Williamston - Mr. Chairman and Commissioners, I appear this evening to discuss the Boards failure to provide proper leadership and address the county's administrative duties. You as the Board adopted a policy as required by North Carolina general statutes on how to address property owner's valuation concerns. That policy which was just passed out to you was dated January 1, 2009. You have established a separate Board of Equalization and Review, which stated duties and timelines. You have chosen, as required by the North Carolina general statutes, that any appeal or decision by the Board of Equalization and Review is to go directly to the North Carolina Property Tax Commission and not to the Martin County Board ofCommissioners. You have failed and continue to fail your policy. Additionally, you have failed and continue to fail to accept the recommendations of the Martin County Tax Assessor recording such appeals. The recommendations of Martin County's' Tax Assessor follows the Martin County policies as adopted by the North Carolina general statutes. Commissioners you have no authority under the County's current policies to address the tax valuation of any property regardless of the taxpayer's determination that they decide needs to be held here instead of following the proper process. Iurge you to follow your policies, county'sp policies, and support the county's employees who are properly performing their duties and I encourage you that you not cherry pick what policies you actually adhere to, such as the timing policies when you know currently what's going on in the policies in the County you don'tfollow and for just to add on to what you had, I'm aware of the RPO's. 30 years with DOT. Albemarle Commission. Is sat at that RPO. I'm scratched to where it is now and for clarification on the Bob Martin Center and 125 versus Bear Grass Road, the Bear Grass Route goes through two highway divisions that did not agree on how it should go ifit went through Bear Grass. Highway Division 1 could make all the decisions ifit went through Prison Camp Road and that was the primary reason that decision was  made."  6    Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mr. Leggett.  4.N Mrs. Martha MacDonald - 20770 US Highway 64, Williamston "Another meeting no Commissioners expenditures on the agenda, no updated travel policy, a quasi-conference report. Why aren't these three things being reported? You set the agenda Mr. Chairman. Why not? In a reply to a Facebook post, Dempsey Bonds the third shared that it was due to the ongoing legal issues. I don't think SO. The legislative conference in February 2024 had nothing to do with any lawsuit. So why not report oni it? Perhaps it's because the three ofy you did not much. Congress was not in conference SO you couldn't speak to the legislatures. Hints, legislative conference, sO what were y'all doing? Preparing for this County's Commissioner's meetings should not be this hard, but iti is. The level of cover-up and lack of transparency is at an epic high. IfI were the three of you, Iwould be ashamed ofthe way you have behaved and the total lack of respect that you have shown the citizens of this County. Let me count the ways, no hospital, no County Manager, no working leadership, uh, majority of you accused in a wrongdoing in a lawsuit, auditor report of undocumented raises, which you three seem to know nothing about, or do you? Spending money tot take trips. Trips, let's talk about trips. NACo Convention Tampa, Florida July 11 through the 15th. $4,855.00 already expended and they haven't left the County. Mr. Biggs, Mr. Bonds, and Ms. Biggs, Mr. Bonds, and Mr. Smith are going. Wel had toj pay extra for Mr. Smith's registration because he was tardy. Not only is our lame duck Commissioner going to live it up in Florida. She has already had her hotel and registration paid for a getaway to Winston Salem in August to the tune of $1,324.48. For that much money you need to look at us during the meeting instead of playing on your computer.. All ofthis coupled with the fact that continue to behavei inas self-serving manner with no accountability to the citizens who elected you. Since August of 2023, you three have not shown any signs of even trying to be good stewards for the money for Martin County or Martin County citizens and the direction Martin County may go in the future. Because of that, I call for thei immediate resignation of Emily Biggs, Ronnie Smith, and you Dempsey Bonds. Thank  you"  Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mrs. MacDonald.  5. Mrs. Verna Perry: "Ijust want to say tonight we: still don'thave al hospital. Wes still don'thave anywhere to go: ifwe get sick, if one of our loved ones have a massive heart attack or anything, we don't anywhere to take them, still, but they getting ready to go on a trip to Tampa. Ok? They're going to spend our money. Alright? So, do they care about us. Do they care or not if we have a hospital? No, ifthey did they wouldn't be spending money they're spending to go out oft town and not bring anything back to the citizens of Martin County. Alright ? Mr. Bonds, you are, I think I told you one time before. Yea, I got my bus license under you, ok? I had the upmost respect for you, yea Idid, but until you let other people pull your change, you became their property and not your own man, I lost respect for you. All that stuff you were talking about, while ago, jimma, jimma, jimma. That ain't got nothing to do with us having a hospital here in Martin County or somewhere to go here in Martin County. Go and tell me what y'all doing to get us a hospital or somewhere to go. IfI get shot or I get killed right now, where am I going to go? Where are they going to take me at, um Ronnie? IfIl have ai massive heart attack right now, what aml I going to do? Where we going to go at? Bertie? Washington? They' re going to put me in a waiting room in  7    Washington, in the waiting room with an IVi in my arm for someone to come out there and look at me. Is that fair to us and the citizens of Martin County? This what's going on. They don't care about us. Yall don't care about us. If you did, you would say, oh no, we not going on trips, we ain't going nowhere, were going to sit here and get them somewhere for these people to go. And lets talk about that farm thing yout talking about. My husband own over 200 acres ofland. Wea ain't got no money for no farm. Iain't never see no farm check come in. Isce all that taxes we had to pay for the farm we own. Come on y'all. We voted y'all in. I agree with the rest of them. Resign,  resign, resign. We're sick ofy'all and we want y'all out ofhere."  Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mrs. Perry.  6.1 Mr. Heber Coltrain - 1031 Scenic Drive, Williamston - Out of courtesy for the people who endured the, um, words from Mr. Bonds earlier, I will make mine, uh, very brief. We have a pending lawsuit against our County from our former manager.I Iassuming that everybody is aware ofthat. The resolution oft that suit more than likely is going to require some input from our Board members. I have a big question. What's the relationship that some of Board members still have with our former Commissioner Bennett? Is there still correspondence? Are some of our Board members still corresponding with Mr. Bennett. Ifso, how would you be able to objectively make any decision regarding that suit, ify you' re still in contact with him, if you' re still friends. Do you visit him sometime down at Morvin Road down in Lilesville. Has your vehicle been seen there? How about these upcoming trips, is Mr. Bennett going to bet there. Is he going to. have dinner with them? Are they going to talk about the old times? What's the sleeping arrangements going to be that someone pointed out a little earlier today, that was suspicion that was raised a while back. Mr. Chairman, uh, more importantly our current County Manager and apart ofour legal time, I'm going toa ask that you examine that closely and see ift these people can even legally take part in that and again I'm going to ask for your immediate resignation, both of you and Mr. Bond because oft the part that you played ini it. You can't be exempt. You need to resign as well, but keep that in mind this upcoming trip. Whose going to be there, what's going to be talked about, an upcoming suit that they're going toj play aj part in however its resolved. Think about that. Thank you"  Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mr. Coltrain.  7. Mrs. Donna Ward-2276 Corey Road, Williamston - I gave thirty-seven and a half years in of my life to this County. I worked at the Department of Social Services. During that time, I attended many meetings and conferences. The supervisors, lead workers, and maybe two workers would go to the meetings ifit was a one-day meeting. Multiple day conferences, they were limited to. just the supervisors. At one time, because of the State and County budget restraints and the issues of money, we didn't have any in person conterences or meetings. Not even local. None in Greenville, nonei in Washington, none in Elizabeth city. What wel learned, we. learned on the phone with our Medicaid Program reps or Food Stamps reps, whoever was available for that unit. When the inj person conferences and meetings did resume, the number of workers attending were. limited to supervisors, sometimes the lead workers would go, but normally it was just the supervisor that would go. Our meals had a set strict limit on the amount in which we were reimbursed. If we went over that amount, we were responsible for that. We had a set amount and believe mei no alcoholic  8    beverages were everi reimbursed. Ididn'tdrink, soId didn'thave to worry about that, but ifs someone did purchase it, they put it on a separate ticket and never asked for reimbursement. That was the one thing that got my gut. After all of the meetings and conferences, it was not only expected of me or anybody that went to that meeting to share what we learned, it was our duty and our responsibility. We held unit meetings to go over any new policies and to share ideas we heard while networking with the others at the meeting. The people of Martin County are your unit. You're esponsible.Ididn'have tol be asked to share anything. Iknew that it was my responsibility to do that, so it's your responsibility and your duty. You should not have to be asked to present to the County, what was learned and how our money was spent and as for the projected budget for the travel, I respectfully request that you provide information for all past conferences before you even entertain the idea oft traveling on your taxpayer dollar. We are not a happy group and it will  show in the elections. Thank you" Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mrs. Ward.  8.1 Ms. Anna Shaw - 1622 Goose Road, Robersonville, NC- A few years ago, I had the pleasure of speaking in front ofy'all. I was informed that the County went broke, retirees insurance would nol longer bej paid. That wasi fine. Iv want proofwhere the County went broke. AllIseen ise expensive travel, trips, everything else. Ia ain't seen where Martin County suffered, have y'all. Ididn't think SO, sO what's the deal? You've gone from I'm broke to let's take a trip to Miami Florida when I ain'tgoing to be on the Board in November, I'm getting off, yet If feel privileged, I'm entitled,I can go. A Few years ago during my employment at Social Services when I announced my retirement, a Child Support trip was coming up. I was toldIcouldn't go because even though my retirement wasn'teffective until the year, it wouldn't be any need for me to put in a request to go. Iwouldn'tneed thel knowledge. So why does Ms. Biggs need tol knowledge, is she special? What's she going to do with the knowledge, you know that she's learned on this trip that she's going to. I want to know what y'all learned. I had to bring back stuff just like Mrs. Ward said. It was my responsibility to show what I learned at those trips I went on. Iain't seen a thing. We had a talk when we come back just to see ifwe could implement anything, any oft the policies that we. learned while we were gone. We were expected to sit down with our unit and show them what we learned and as far as expense reports, God forbid if we brought anything over the limit, we were told to buy. Our van was carried to a parking lot where it sit in the same park when we got there on Wednesday or Thursday and did not leave until Friday. The van never left. We walked where we went. We spent what we were told to spend. We never drank the first thing because it was drilled inc our head, we represented Martin County and Martin County didn't want al bunch of clowns off representing them at time. Ithink that changed somewhere along the line because you know I was respectful enough that our van broke down coming back. We were in Mebane. I called the director and said what do we need to do and at the time he said, Mebane, is what 15 minutes on the other side of Raleigh. I was like no , it's not, but that's beside the point. We got somebody to jerryrig that van to get us back to Martin County where it broke down at the stoplight. We were a little late getting back, but it wasn'tour fault. My point ist this, what you tell isj just like your mama and your daddy tell you, ifI tell one to do it, all ofy'all need to doi it. SoIdon'tknow why y'all feel exempt to do what y'all told us to do all these years and Ronnie Smith, you've been on the Board long enough. You should know better. You should know how to act, You should know what's required  9    of you. You should know what to turn in. My last thing to y'all is this Hospital * the timer went Chairman Bond Jr thanked Mrs. Shaw. Mrs. Shaw continued her comment, "because that's just like a rental property. Irent property. I rent property. Where did that money go? Show me where  off* Contingency Fund...  it went to. Have a good night." CONSENT AGENDA  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to approve the Consent Agenda with a Second by  Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  1. Minute Approval  December 13, 2023 Regular December 13, 2023 Closed 2. Financial Report - May 2024  3. Tax Assessor- - Tax Refund Request - May 2024-S223.66 4. Tax Assessor- - Tax Relief Orders - May 2024-$4,424.44  Year Lname Levy 2019 Carr 2020 Carr 2023 Curtis 2019 Ebron 2019 Ebron 2020 Ebron 2020 Ebron 2021 Ebron 2023 OfChrist 2023 Parnell 2023 Parnell 2023 Denominational Holiness Church INC.  Fname  Reason  Value Total $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $2,525.19 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00  Real & Personal Releases Tracy & Bernard Munis Software Error Tracy & Bernard Munis Software Error Ralph Edward Curt Double Listed Jessie Mae Heirs Munis Software Error Jessica Mae Heirs Error in Listing Jessica Mae Heirs Error in Listing Jessica Mae Heirs Munis Software Error Jessica Mae Heirs Error in Listing Hamilton Church Compromise Robert Allen Jr. Robert Allen Jr.  $183.50 $197.61 $22.37 29.25 $140.12 $137.87 $31.50 $315.74 $184.13 $266.26 $167.10 $223.80 $4,424.44 $214.76 $223.66  2023 Baptist Church Fellowship  Compromise Error in Listing Error in Listing BOER VTS Refunds Adjustment Adjustment  Soul Saving Non Appeal Approved by  Total Real & Personal Releases 2023 Christian Church Community  $8.90 $ 8.90 $417.77  2023 Doughtie Total VTS Refunds  James Albert  10    Total Tax Relief Orders - $4, 648.10  5. Tax Collector's Report - May 2024  Category 20  May $13,754.96 $1,278.99 $15,033.95 $0.00 $0.00 $15,033.95  05-21 Y-T-D $172,704.56 $41,055.47 $213,760.03 $0.00 $0.00 $213,760.03  Real Property Personal Property 25 Total Motor Vehicle Total MV All Total  30  6. Board Appoitments/keappoitments  A.ABC Board  The. ABC Board: reported that Ms. Janie Grady decided to step down as Board Chairman effective July 1st. The Board recommended that Mr. Steven Cannon be made Board Chairman. He was the most recent Vice Chairman. Mr.J.T.1 Fleming has been nominated and agreed to become the new Vice Chairman. Ms. Janie Grady will remain on the board but not as Chairman.  B.E Economic Development Council  Commissioner David Skip Gurganus was recommended to be reappointed to the Economic Development Council by Board staff. Ifapproved, his term will end on. June 31,2027 C.Martin County Regional Water & Sewer Authority( (MCRWASA) Alternate Director to serve for a three-year term ending on. June 31,2027  Mr. Robert Whitaker, Martin County Water Systems Manager, was recommended to be appointed to the Martin County Regional Water & Sewer Authority (MCRWASA) as an The above listed Board Appointments were approved as part oft the Consent Agenda.  7.Tax Assessor Compromise - Piney Grove Baptist Church  Piney Grove Baptist Church asked for a compromise oft the penalties from a discovery bill in the amount of $450.84. By approving the consent agenda the Board approved oft the compromise of  the penalties.  The. item above was. Approved by the Board, as part of the Consent Agenda  11    8. Juvenile Justice Lease Agreement  Juvenile Justice submitted a completed lease for approval. By general statute, the County was required to provide a space for services such as court services, Juvenile Justice, and Adult Probation. The last lease was approved for 3 years and the lease rent was $1.00 per year. This item was Approved by the Board, as part of the Consent Agenda  9. Clerk Report- includedj for informational purposes INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEE(S) Beverly Smith - Income Maintenance Angela Raynor - Finance Officer C Christopher Bullock - Animal Control PRESENTATION (S)-NONE  PUBLIC. HEARING - Fiscal Year (FY)2024-2025 Budget Ordinance  At: 7:49p.m., Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Enter Public Hearing - Fiscal Year 2024- 2025 Budget Ordinance, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was Carried N.C. General Statute 159-11 directs that the budget shall be submitted to the governing board not later than June 1st. This date is more ofa "rule-of-thumb", rather than a definitive date. Counties generally meet the first week of each month, and some counties wait until their June meeting for the presentation of the proposed budget. A public hearing on the annual budget must also be advertised and held. The public hearing on the 2024-2025 Budget is scheduled for. June 12th. The Board may want to discuss the Proposed Budget after the public hearing. In addition, the Board of Commissioners may desire additional work sessions. N.C.G.S 159-13 specifies that no earlier than 10 days after the budget is presented to the governing body and not later than July 1st, the governing body shall adopt a budget ordinance. The Board of Commissioners may choose to approve the budget on June 12th. Otherwise, the Board of Commissioners may adopt an interim budget ordinance to be effective from July 1st to August Ist. The following public notice was  unanimously (5-0).  posted as required:  PUBLIC: NOTICE  In pursuant of N. C. G.S. $159-12A, a Public Hearing on the proposed FY 2024-2025 Budget for the County of Martin will be held on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 during the Regular meeting of the Board ofCommissioners. This meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioner's Boardroom of the Martin County Governmental Center, 305 E. Main St.,  Williamston, NC.  12    Thej proposed budget may be examined weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00j p.m. at the office of the County Clerk in the Martin County Governmental Center, 305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina. All interested citizens will have the opportunity to give written and/or oral Persons with disabilities or who otherwise need assistance with participating in the public hearing should contact the person listed below at least 481 hoursi in advance ofthe hearing. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Esta informaciôn esta disponible en espariol 0 en cualquier otro idioma aj peticion. Pongase en contacto con el individuo enumerado a  comments at this hearing.  continuaciôn para dar cabida a esta solicitud.  Julia S. Rease, Martin County Clerk (252)789-4301  Interim County Manager Eisner stated that this was the second opportunity to address everyone about the budget. Interim County Manager noted changes in the proposed budget in the form ofa letter that was given to the Board in their agenda packets and went over the changes stated in the letter. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that there were three items that he wanted to add to  the budget.  MTW Health Department - In the original budget, there were reportedly two options presented by the MTW Health Department, an 8% and 9% increase. It was learned that Tyrrell and Washington County were going to approve an 8% increase. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that he made a change to add an 8 % increase to the appropriation. The original recommended budget appropriation was $ 422,855.00 and the updated recommended budget appropriation was $477,807.00. This was a net change of Board of Elections - Two proposals were submitted for the budget; one proposal for three voting sites and the other proposed one site. The State Board of Elections received the proposals ofboth options and recommended the proposal with one voting site at the Martin County Governmental Center with extended hours. It was reported that this option would cause a $3,000.00 ($3,230.00 net increase) increase for poll workers. The original budget Buildings and Grounds - Bargain Shoppe - The County owned a building referred as the Bargain Shoppe and there were issues with the roofing. It was patched overtime, but a new roof was recommended as the best option. The construction cost of a new roof was estimated to be around $25,000 - $30,000.00. The original budget appropriation was $7,000.00, but with this change, the recommended budget appropriation recommended to  $54,952.00.  appropriation would be changed from $175,043.00 to $178,273.00.  be $37,000.00.  13    The overall impact oft these changes on the use of savings and fund balance appropriation are as  follows:  Original Budget Appropriation $3,394,503 $38,007,792  Recommended Updated Changes  Net Change $88,102 $88,102  Fund Balance Updated Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget  $3,482,685 $38,095,904  This information was added as an enclosure to the budget and Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the proposed budget was prepared with the changes stated. Interim County Manager  Eisner asked ifthere were any questions.  Commissioner Gurganus stated in lieud ofconcerns, accuracy, and reporting, in the Commissioners budget, there was a line for Travel and Subsistence. Commissioner Gurganus stated that this account line included both a portion of the Commissioners salary for in - county travel and there was $ 2,200 for out of county travel. Commissioner Gurganus asked if another account number could be added to the Out ofCounty Travel, to list it separately, SO it could be seen, paid attention to for more accountability. Commissioner Gurganus asked if this could be done or ifit was hard Interim County Manager Eisner asked Commissioner Gurganus was asking ift the interior of the number be split into two different categories. Commissioner Gurganus agreed. Interim County An audience member, Mr. Heber Coltrain, stated that he might be out of order, but stated that it was mentioned many times ini the past that the citizens would like to see an individual breakdown ofe expenditures for each Commissioner to see what each Commissioner was spending on travel. Mr. Coltrain asked ifthis was reasonable. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he didn't think that itv was unreasonable, but he was not the one in the County offices that had to conduct the change. Mr. Coltrain stated that Commissioner Gurganus was in charge of the County. Commissioner Gurganus stated for his sake and what he was hearing, it was better accountability and visibility in what was happening, and to look at the situation as the first step to separate the account lines for was. his recommendation. Mr. Coltrain stated that this was what the citizens wanted. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that he was not ignoring the question, but for procedural reasons, ifMr. Coltrain wanted to present for public hearing he was welcome to do SO. Chairman Bond Jr. stated that there were two people that were signed up for public hearing.  tod do.  Manager Eisner reported that he felt that this could be done.  14    Commissioner Smith asked to speak and it was granted. Commissioner Smith stated that it was the Finance Office that had to keep up with these records; he did not see a problem with identifying as to which Commissioners did or did not travel, or what the numbers were. Commissioner Smith stated that Finance had tol keep accountability, but asked ifit was ok to present the budget in a way that if expenses were requested, iti is already available. Commissioner Smith stated that he didn't Finance Officer Cindy Ange stated that if an account line was made several line items, one for each Commissioner, the Finance Office would have to know how much money to put in each County Attorney Eisner stated public hearing procedures for clarity and explained the process wherein the County Manager would give an overview oft the proposed budget and any changes to it, comments would be heard from the public, and the discussion of the ordinance or any changes Interim County Manager Eisner asked ifthere were any questions as to the addition and or changes Commissioner Ayers stated he did think the Manager and Finance Officer needed to get together to see ift the suggestion given by Commissioner Gurganus could be legally and logistically done. Commissioner Ayers stated that he wanted to suggest something that could save the County money. Commissioners Ayers reported the Commissioners travel budget was $52,000.00 with $30,000.00 designated fori in - county travel, and that left $2 22,000.00 for out of county travel. His suggestion was to deduct $12,000.00 from the out of county travel and max that account amount County Attorney Eisner reiterated that this portion of the meeting was for public hearing. Commissioner Ayers stated that he understood and was just making a statement. County Attorney Eisner stated that when the public hearing closed and the budget ordinance came up in New Commissioner Ayers stated that he was not trying to make a change, but only wanted to make a suggestion and when the meeting moved forward to New Business the discussion could be Chairman Bond Jr. stated that there were two people signed for the public hearing regarding the proposed budget ordinance and called them to the podium. There was a question as to how much time each speaker had and County Attorney Eisner advised of5 minutes per the Board procedures. 1. Mr. Billy Leggett - Mill End Road 1528, Williamston, NC = "Mr. Chairman and Commissioners, Iam concerned about the budget item relative to Commissioners travel expenses. The County has paid fori recent trips to State and orl National Conferences fori three Commissioners. Those trips were to enhance the Commissioners ability to perform their duties and to perform their  have an issue with this.  Commissioners line item.  would be in New Business at the closing oft the public hearing a discussion.  to the proposed budget.  to$ $10,000.00.  Business, a discussion could be heard.  entertained further.  15    functions at the local level and other issues that may or may not affect the local issues. The issues that face the County today have been building for the entire terms ofs some members oft this Board. The Boards actions or inactions do not exhibit any beneficial application of skills or knowledge one would expect from participation in six conferences, my questions is why several Commissioners to take extended trips to conferences that do no benefit the County, but cost thousands of taxpayers' dollars. Also, I question why any lame duck Commissioner should be attending six conferences period. I would like for the County to established a policy that any conference attendee, like you presented today Mr. Bonds, provide a written report to the Board at the next regular meeting following the conference, that the attendees, expense report, also be provided and submitted at that time with a statement that he or she has complied with the County's current policy on travel, expenses, and predeum and also state what they learned at the conference that would be the benefit to the County. I would also like to see the policy in travel to state ifa county vehicle is used to go to a conference, then all people attending that conference use the county vehicle that we' re paying for and if not and elect to drive individually, then that's the individual expense. The Countys' providing transportation to the even. In State Government, ifI was going to a conference and had a State vehicle, and wanted to take my spouse or somebody with me, Ihad to drive my personal vehicle and not request any predium for travel. I don't think it's a bad policy. It is something that protects the benefit oft the taxpayers' dollars and one other item I'd like to mention, it comes out oft the budget because the County is being sued by the former County Manager. Iwould hope I would hope that any Commissioner that has any verbal, written, physical contact with anybody involved in a lawsuit against the County should report that to the County Attorney. That is a conflict ofinterest and provides a conflict providing information from 2. Mrs. Martha MacDonald - 20770 US Highway 64, Williamston - "First thing I want to address is the 2% COLA. Ithink the employees oft this County absolutely need ai raise. There's no doubt about it. They" re working for y'all. They' 've got tol have something in return and a 2% raise is not enough for our employee, in my opinion. However, after looking at the budget, I see that you guys are getting that 2% raise as well. I've got a problem with that. It think all these folks out here,y'all got aj problem with that? Yea, they do. You don'tdeserve a twoj percent raise. Youdon't deserve halfof what you get because you sure aren'tg given back to the County. You're not doing what you are supposed to be doing. Now, still under the Commissioners salary type thing, that $500.00 per person. Per person, per year, that's $30,000.00 that's hidden in the Commissioners salary. Ok you've got that then you got $52, 000.00. AmI Imissing something? Is that $30,000.00 included in the 52?" County Attorney agreed that it was. Mrs. MacDonald asked ifi it was and Interim County Manager Eisner agreed that it was included. Mrs. MacDonald continued, "Then why is it? Is see a line item for $52,000.00 and I see the Commissioners salary, but I do not see County Manager Eisner asked if he could respond and stated that this was before his tenure with Martin County, but he believed that the $500.00 per month being referred to was for in county  one side to the other that should not be provided. Thank you."  where one is part oft the other."  travel that was part ofaj paycheck, but was not considered salary.  16    Mrs. MacDonald responded that it was still: money received by Commissioners that was earmarked inc county travel. Mrs. MacDonald continued! hers statement, , So, its $6,000.00 per person, per year, which is $30,000.00 for the whole year. All of you up there. Folks, for $30,000.00 I can drive to California and back several times. That's ridiculous and I know that it's been in the budget for quite a while or encapsulated in the Commissioners salary, and just because it's been done ini the past, doesn't mean it should continue to be done. There's got to the some accountability there. I know this Board is not big on accountability, but it's time you started being big on it. So, Ithink the Finance Office needs to figure this out an we get some facts and figures that we can look at and see where this money is going. Now, fund balance. So, you'r re taking from the fund balance again, I guess. Now our main source of revenue, for us to the fund balance, is] property tax right?  Am Imistaken with that sir?"  Interim County Manager Eisner responded yes.  Mrs. MacDonald added, "Fund Balance and it also comes from the Hospital Fund.  Interim County Manager Eisner agreed and explained that the enclosure he submitted into the budget talked about the hospital funds specifically because the hospital was closed and the lease was abandoned by the bankruptcy trustee, therefore that money was earned at one thirtieth and would go into the fund balance. This funding was reportedly always set aside and earned. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that as of October of last year when the trustee: rejected the lease with the County, the County was no longer the landlord ofthe building and no longer earning the percentage that was earned before. Interim County Manager Eisner reported mentioning this in a previous meeting, but the funding could very well may become part ofthe bankruptcy case. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the funding was not part of the fund balance. Mrs. MacDonald stated, "My quote was that we get where we pay everything is from. Our fund Interim County Manager agreed, but stated that those funds were not comingled in that way. Mrs. MacDonald stated, "So, the main source of revenue is property taxes. Property tax and you guys are entertaining the idea ofr reducing a $2.2 million property to $ 122,000. The timer went off, but a minute was added since the timer had not been reset.  balance and some of the money did come from the hospital.  Mrs. MacDonald continued her comment: "So, $2.2 million and you're thinking about taking it down to $122,000.00. Not only is it illegal, Its, why would you even think about it because its property tax. That's money that our County depends on that has been counted as income that we can get. Just saying. This going to the trip, the $52,000.00 for trips and you've already spent $27,000.00 through January oft this year, SO I don't know what it is right now. I don't know what you get from those, but you're certainly aren't bringing it back here. You're certainly not getting any leadership skills because I don't see anything represented here by that. You're certainly not being taught how to run ai meeting because we' re not seeing that here. So, $2,000.00 in your line  17    item for your travel is absolutely ridiculous and you should be ashamed ofyourselffore even putting Chairman Bond Jr. stated that if there were no further questions, he would entertain a motion to At8 8:13p.m., Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to. Exit Public Hearing -Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 - 2025 Martin County Budget Ordinance, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The PUBLIC HEARING - TRANSIT - Proposed Increased Rate of $3.60 per Direct Mile - Atl4pm.Commisioner Smith made the Motion tol Enter Public Hearing Transit-E Proposed Increased Rate of$3.60 per Direct Mile- Effective July 1,2024, with a Second by Chairman Bond Transit Administrator Frank Halsey explained that Martin County Transit was asking for a rate increased due to the rising cost for gas and repairs, materials and office supplies for public bus system to operate. Martin County Transit was allowed to determine a direct mile rate using a FACM (Fully Allocated Cost Model) analysis tool. Based upon the detailed FACM analysis completed on May 15,2024, Martin County needed to increase the rate to $3.60 per Direct Mile per rider on the vehicle. Specifically the FACM determined that the rate came to $3.597, which was rounded up to $3.60. This would be effective July 1, 2024. This rate is charged to agencies, ROAP program grant, MedicaId-NCIRACKS, and Medicaid/Medicare Health Brokers for  it in there. Thank you." go out oft the public hearing.  Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  Effective July 1,2024.  Jr. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  transportation oft their approved riders/members. There were no public comments  At: 8:16 p.m., Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Exit Public Hearing Transit - Proposed Increased Rate of $3.60 per Direct Mile - Effective July 1, 2024, with a Second by  Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0).  OLD BUSINESS  Tax Assessor's Office- - 2022 and 2023 Real Property Appeal Parcel #0503977  County Attorney Eisner stated that this agenda item was aj property tax bill from Blackacre LLC and had been continued on the agenda multiple times. Tax Assessor Melissa Phillips and the Blackacre LLC., representatives were noted to be in attendance. Procedurally, the matter was a quasi . judicial hearing where the board heard evidence at least twice. Both parties submitted documents and evidence resubmitted. County Attorney Eisner reported that the first question was to determine whether or not further evidence was needed. County Attorney Eisner responded to a  18    comment that was heard during the public comment period regarding the matter. County Attorney Eisner reported that the Board ofE ENR was established and was designated some authority tol hear tax appeals. This was reportedly an interesting matter because thel Board ofENR was adjourned at that time and the Board of Commissioners could hear tax appeals, sO to the extent that an issue came about raised by a taxpayer, whether an appeal was made during the adjournment of the Board of ENR, there was another questions if the Board of Commissioners' had jurisdiction. County Attorney Eisner added that the Board of ENR was in session at this time and could hear tax appeals. County Attorney Eisner stated that he didn't know ift this barred the general statutes mentioned in the public comment, but it did contemplate the adjournment of the Board of ENR wherein the Board ofCommissioners had the ability to hear appeals and he didn'tthink the matter was cut and dry as presented. However, there was a question ofjurisdiction and ifr not the matter could be sent to the Board of ENR. County Attorney Eisner stated that he did think that this was a unique fact specific case. County Attorney Eisner reiterated the questions ift the Board wanted to hear more evidence, if the Board held jurisdiction and if yes, was this appeal timely and if yes, was there sufficient evidence wherein a change in value could be made? Allofthese questions had to have an answer ofyes for the Board ofENR to hear the matter. County Attorney Eisner asked Commissioner Smith stated that he had a question and he thought at the last meeting, this matter  ifthere were any questions. was sent to the Board of ENR.  County Attorney Eisner responded that he thought the matter was tabled.  Blackacre LLC, CEO and Principle Jeremy Collins stated, "If I may, Mr. Chairman, Commissioners, for tax year 2024 it was sent to the Board of ENR and we arel before them for tax An audience member, Mr. Stalls made a comment citing a general statute and Chairman Bond Jr. County Attorney Eisner stated reiterated that the Board of Commissioners had to answer the question as to ifit wanted tol hear further evidence, and ifthere was. jurisdiction of the 2022-2023 appeal matter. Ift the Board did not want to hear further evidence, the Board needed to decide on Commissioner Ayers asked in regards to the question of jurisdiction, there was no definitive County Attorney Eisner reported that in the matter he was counsel to the Board, the tax assessor was the advocate for the County, and the tax payer was the advocate for themselves. Therefore, he could not give his personal thoughts. From a procedural standpoint, there was an open question based upon the facts of this case whether the Board had jurisdiction to hear the matter or not. County Attorney Eisner stated that the roots was if the Board determined that it did not have jurisdiction, legally the matter would go to the Board ofENR: for a hearing, and the taxpayer could  year 2024. You heldj jurisdiction for years 2022 and 2023." stated that the Board was not in public hearing.  deliberation. answer.  19    appeal to the Tax Commission. County Attorney Eisner reiterated that he could only provide Commissioner Gurganus stated that his recollection was that the matter was sent to the Board of County Attorney Eisner agreed with Blackacre LLC Principle and CEO Jeremy Collins statement Blackacre LLC Principle and CEO Jeremy Collins stated, "IfImay, Is there an opportunity to be heard, not to enter or share evidence, but to give a background as to exactly how we got here." County Attorney Eisner stated maybe, but there were some procedural issues that needed to be answered before that could happen. County Attorney Eisner reported that he didn'tthink that 2022- 2023 was ruled upon and that the issue was punted until now. The 2024 tax appeal was reportedly being heard by the Board of ENR on a scheduled date. The first issue was ifthe Board wanted to hear further evidence and hearing the matter was not the same as making a decision on it. County Commissioner Ayers stated that 2024 was being handled by the Board of ENR and it was logical tol him for the 2022-2023 appeal to be handled at the same time since the facts would go hand in Chairman Bond Jr. stated that the Board needed to vote on whether the Board could hear the matter Vice Chairman Biggs asked if the Board could hear background information to establish County Attorney Eisner stated that his counsel tot the Board was ifthe Board wanted tol hear further evidence and the reason he asked this was because there were two evidentiary hearings already had that were table and the next step was deliberation. Ifthe evidence was closed, the judge in the matter had to say SO. County Attorney Eisner asked the Board ifit wanted tol hear further evidence.  counsel.  ENR and the County and Blackacre LLC were going to provide al brief. that the matter of 2022-2023 was tabled for the submittal of a brief.  Attorney Eisner asked the Board ifit wanted to hear further evidence.  hand with each other.  orr not.  jurisdiction and move forward.  Commissioner Ayers stated that his answer was not tol hear further evidence.  Chairman Bond Jr. stated that he did not think that the Board of Commissioners had the right to  overstep the Board ofENR.  There was a vote on ift the Board wanted to hear further evidence.  All Commissioners agreed to not hear further evidence. Commissioner Biggs voted to hear more evidence to establish jurisdiction. The vote was 4-1 in favor to close evidence.  20    County Attorney Eisner stated that now that the evidence was closed, the next step was to vote on Commissioner Gurganus stated that he did not think the Board had the jurisdiction to handle the Commissioner Smith stated that as long as the Board of Equalization was presently in session or Blackacre LLC Principle and CEO asked to be heard in this matter and County Attorney Eisner stated that evidence was closed and Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that the matter was in deliberation. County Attorney and Blackacre LLC CEO had a brief discussion on procedures. Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that he wanted to be heard on the merits of deliberation. Commissioner Gurganus asked ifhe could ask a question and asked Blackacre LLC CEO Collins why he was SO determined for the Board of Commissioners to hear the matter. Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that this was a good question as he was not determined for the Board to handle the issue and he did not ask to be in this venue. Blackacre LLC CEO Collins reported that he was sent to this venue, there was al loto ofmisinformation. Blackacre LLC Principle Collins stated that he went to the tax assessor and informed them that his property was improperly and illegally valued and he asked the tax assessor to reassess the property. Upon that request, wherein he was not present prior tot the tax assessor coming to the meeting, thei tax assessor brought this issue to the Board earlier this year and sent him a letter dated last year informing him that because the Board of Equalization and Revenue was coming out of session in early April, the County Attorney Eisner reported that the issue came about when the Board of ENR was adjourned, Blackacre LLC CEO Collins added that the issues of2 2022-2023 were still laid bare at the County Commissioners meeting and he just wanted a fair chance at what the true value and assessment of Tax Assessor Phillips asked to respond. It was reported that a timely 2023 appeal was filed and was addressed. A site visit was reportedly conducted and the taxpayer was advised that the 2022 tax appeal was out of the appeal timeframe and could not be reviewed. It was also stated that the taxpayer was provided information regarding appeal rights and open and adjournment dates for the Board of ENR. Tax Assessor Phillips reported that there was a clerical error wherein staff changed the value for 2024 instead of 2023. When the taxpayer reportedly brought the clerical error to the tax office in December after the taxpayers letter was mailed in April, this matter was brought to the Board as an inmaterial regularity to fix the error which the office had the right to do. The tax office was stated tol have corrected the mistake and reduced the value for 2023. At the  deliberation oft the matter.  matter.  open to session, he believed the matter needed to bel heard by that Board.  County Board of Commissioners was the proper venue to hear the appeal.  but now it was open.  the property should be.  21    time, it was reported that the taxpayer did not send any documentation or contact the office County Attorney Eisner called for point of order wherein evidence would not bej presented. County Attorney Eisner asked thel Board ifit had jurisdiction ori ifit wanted ot send the matter to thel Board Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that as a question of deliberation, ifthis board did not have the jurisdiction at this meeting, then it did not have jurisdiction in) March when the property value was changed at that time. Blackacre LLCCEO Collins stated that ift the Board did have jurisdiction in March, he would argue that the Board would have jurisdiction at this meeting because the Board County Attorney Eisner stated that the issues mentioned were different and Blackacre LLC CEO There was a question of clarification of the Board making a change and it was confirmed that the Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that that when the issue was brought up to the tax office, they were not just appealing the year, they were appealing the amount and the tax year because this property was listed to be destroyed and it was not until they did a review of their own that there was as similar property owned by Mr. Smith in Robersonville where the purchase price was the tax assessed value. Blackacre LLCCEO Collins stated that his issue was one of fairness, ift there was Commissioner Gurganus stated that there was a group in Raleigh could handle this decision and County Attorney Eisner reported that a decision needed tol be made to hear this matter or to be sent The vote to send the matter to the Board of ENR was 4-1. Commissioner Biggs stated that the issue began with the Board of Commissioners and the Board could hear the case. Blackacre LLC CEO Collins stated that he was fine with this decision and the was thanked for his  regarding the value that was sent to him in April.  ofENR.  ofENR was in session in March.  Collins agreed that they were two separate issues. Board did agree to make a change to a clerical error.  jurisdiction earlier in the year, there was jurisdiction at this meeting. was not comfortable with the information he heard in handle this issue.  to the Board ofENR.  attendance. NEW BUSINESS 1.1 Budget approval  Interim County Manager reported that the public hearing was conducted earlier int the meeting and  the Board could discuss the proposed budget ordinance.  22    Commissioner Ayers suggestedar reduction of$12,000.00 from the $52,000.00: from the travel line Commissioner Gurganus asked ift the separation of the account line items would require a vote. County Attorney responded that the line item itself did not require a vote, but a reduction of funding would require a vote to make the change ini the proposed budget ordinance. Commissioner Ayers Motioned to accept the budget ordinance with the deduction of$12,000.00 from the Commissioner line item of $313,052.00 to bring the grand total to $301,052.00. Commissioner Smith stated that the budget was looked and the Interim County Manager presented the budget with mostly increases. Commissioner Smith reported that he respected what Commissioner Ayers was saying but disagreed with it. Commissioner Smith stated that there here had been a lot of discussion about travel and everyone had his or her opinion about travel. Commissioner Smith stated that he went to Raleigh to speak with legislatures and he did not ask forj predium. Commissioner Smith added that there were some important things discussed, wherein he listened to the governor and there were some conflicts in what they agreed on. Commissioner Smith reported speaking with legislators last night and this morning. Commissioner Smith acknowledged that there was a question as why he went to certain places and didn'tbring anything back. Commissioner Smith reported that some things were tangible and others were not. Knowledge and education reportedly started when it was given away. Commissioner Smith added that there were decision and discussions made "at the table" that could change outcomes. Commissioner Smith stated that the monies the County had today, in 10 years, would not be seen again. California wasi reportedly already facing thisi issue, but North Carolina wasi fortunate tol have $9billion saved and California had $89 billion in debt. Commissioner Smith reportedly looked at traveling and non-traveling counties and counties that did not travel always ended up short or majority of them. Commissioner Smith reiterated Chairman Bond Jr. information about the agricultural committee and The National Association of County Commissioners reportedly announced that the Senate and Congress approving of a farm bill. This ill reportedly had all programs that Martin County depended on as well as the farmers within the County. The reason why this reportedly passed was because 2,000 consistent Commissioners went to the conferences and talked about these issues and decide which policies that Congress and the Senate needed to look at. North Carolina was reported to have the largest contingency at any conference. North Carolina was also reportedly looked at and was listened to when concerns were stated at these conferences and there was an organization that brought the conçerns into one collective. Commissioner Smith stated that if someone wanted to sit on the sideline and not travel, to do SO, but ifsomeone wanted to be part oft the process, be aware of what was going on, and bej part oft the decision making, that person needed to be at the table. Commissioner Smith commented that $4,000.00 was not al lot ofmoney unless it wasi in the household, but as far as a County and a State, $30 billion was not a lot ofmoney. Commissioner Smith reiterated that ifany Commissioner did not want to travel, to not travel. Commissioner Smith stated he disagreed with removing the $12,000 or any monies when it came to travel for any organization because that's were thel learning  item.  Commissioner Gurganus Seconded the Motion. Discussion:  23    began. Commissioner Smith stated that it started with the people that sat at thet table. Commissioner Smith reported finding out information in Raleigh than an audience member made a comment aloud stating that he did not know what the public did or did not know. Commissioner Smith stated that he was not in a debate and he was talking to the Board and the audience member did not have the authority to question or ask question. Another audience member began to make a comment Chairman Bond Jr. commented that last August there was an annual meeting in Raleigh. The executive board had their meeting the day before and he was reportedly asked to leave by a staff member to return to the County and not to attend the annual meeting. Chairman Bond. Jr. reported that he stayed anyway and he was glad that he did stay because the Speaker ofthe House spoke in that meeting. The Speaker of the House reportedly gave a speech and asked if anyone was in attendance from Martin County and Chairman Bond Jr was the only representative. The Speaker ofthel House reportedly brought attention to Martin General Hospital closing and that he would do anything to help reopen the hospital as soon as possible. Chairman Bond Jr. asked what would have happened if he did not attend. Chairman Bond Jr reported attending a conference in Washington DC in 2023, wherein he spoke Senators Burrs Office, Senator Tillis' Office, and Congressman Butterfields Office to talk to them. The former Congressman Butterfield asked Chairman Bond Jr. ifhe had something to say and Chairman Bond Jr. mentioned a proposed plan forl Highway 495. The proposed highway was planned to go from Raleigh to Rocky Mount and to end in Elizabeth City. Chairman Bond Jr. asked Congressional Representative Butterfield to look into this plan as it left out all ofl Eastern North Carolina and recommended the highway plan to be changed to Raleigh to Rocky Mount, Rocky Mount to Williamston, and Williamston to Elizabeth City. Chairman Bond. Jr. reportedly mentioned this change three times in a row at each conference in Washington D.C. Congressman Butterfield, Senator Tillis and Burr resulted in writing out the bill forl Highway 871 to come this way. Chairman Bond Jr. asked ifanyone knew how much money Commissioner Gurganus commented on attending one trip to Raleigh and stated that it was uneventful. Commissioner Gurganus reportedly had been on a lot of trips to Raleigh to talk to people. Commissioner Gurganus stated that each year between $15,000.00-$ $25,000.00 was spent on travel. Commissioner Gurganus stated that in the last budget cycle there was only one person that got anything that amounted to anything and the Commissioners didn'tg get a dime. It was stated that surrounding counties got millions and millions of dollars and the County didn't get anything. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he hated to admit that he didn't ask for anything, but he had since, but he did not ask for a payment to go. Commissioner Gurganus stated that it was ok for the Board to disagree as long as it was a civil disagreement. Commissioner Gurganus mentioned the $3.4 billion from Congressman Butterfield and the money had not been allocated to the County as of yet. Commissioner Gurganus stated that work was being conducted to backtrack this funding and hopefully it would be sent to the County. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he respected the comments from Commissioner Smith and Chairman Bond Jr., but he was a citizen first and foremost and he did not see the benefit especially when there was one event wherein one delegate  and Chairman Bond. Jr. asked the Sheriff for order.  and development due to the interstate passing through Martin County.  could attend to represent Martin County instead of multiple people attending.  24    Chairman BondJr. asked Commissioner Gurganus ifhes spoke with Congressman Don Davis about the $3.4 billion. Commissioner Gurganus stated that he did and he also asked why $275,000.00 was cut from United Health that was part of the reason that Home health was shutdown with the Health Department as well as the referrals from Martin General Hospital when it shutdown. Commissioner Gurganus was thankful to MTW Health Department Director Vickey Manning contracted a private company which Congressman Don Davis reportedly was supposed to help with and hopefully would. Commissioner Gurganus stated that Congressman Don Davis was able Chairman Bond Jr. made a comment regarding a call he received on the same: night for the Martin County 250th Anniversary regarding a clinic that closed due to payments that were not made. Chairman Bond Jr. called Congressman Don Davis Office the issue was taken care of. Paperwork Commissioner Gurganus stated that Chairman Bond Jr. wanted credit because ofhis comment and his speech at the beginning of the meeting. Commissioner Gurganus asked Commissioner Bond Jr. to show the results because the County had been in decline for 25 years and some of the members of the Board had been sitting on the Board for half of those years. Commissioner At this time a vote was taken to approve the budget ordinance with the changes stated by  to get some funding to resolve the issue.  was reportedly sent to courthouse to fix the issue.  Gurganus asked what had been done and apologized forl his demeanor.  Commissioner Ayers by a show ofhands. Vote: Ayes: Commissioner Ayers and Commissioner Gurganus  Nays: Chairman Bond Jr, Vice Chairman Biggs, and Commissioner Smith  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to accept the Budget Ordinance as stated. Vice Chairman  Biggs asked to make some changes as stated:  Page 13 - Section 35 - Vice Chairman Biggs asked if "he is" could be changed to 4 they Section 39 - Vice Chairman asked if the Vice Chair could be listed as an alternative or back up to the Chairperson regarding the representative of the Board in case of Page 1- Public safety Vice Chairman Biggs asked ifyouth detention could be separated to include a line item for the expenses for youth to see how much funding was given to the  are" to be more inclusive  incapacitation.  youth services.  County Attorney Eisner reiterated the proposed changes stated by Vice Chairman Biggs as written Vice Chairman Biggs made the Motion to accept the proposed budget ordinance with the above stated changes, with a Second by Commissioner Smith. Discussion: Commissioner Gurganus for  above and the changes were reportedly correct.  25    clarification and it was given. Commissioner Ayers asked for clarification and it was given. Vice Chairman Biggs asked to null the change to the Public Safety line item to keep it the same after Vice Chairman Biggs made the Motion to approve the stated changes on Pages 13 and 39, with a Commissioner Smith made the Motion to accept the Budget Ordinance with the stated changes Commissioner Gurganus asked for clarification on what motion was being made and the Commissioner Smith made the Motion to accept the Budget Ordinance with the stated changes, with a Second by Vice Chairman Biggs. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Vote:  receiving clarification from the Finance Officer.  Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried (5-0).  clarification was given.  Ayes - Biggs, Bond, and Smith Nays - Gurganus and Ayers  2. Approval of the Proposed Transit Increase  Commissioner Smith made the Motion to increase the pay per mile, with a Second by  Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  3.1 Memorandum ofUnderstanding  DSS Director Angela Ellis explained the memorandum of understanding was mandated to be approved between counties and the state for standards inj procedures and policies and this update occurred annually. It was reported that it would not change the statutory requirements and policies ifthe MOU was not approved. Trainings have not been outlined correctly and data surrounding the security breaches wherein systems have been hacked into. The state has not developed a plan There was discussion amongst Board members and DSS Director Ellis regarding the need to sign the MOU as some counties chose not to sign the MOU and there were issues with the agreement. DSS Director Ellis mentioned discussing the issues with the Department of Health and Human Commissioner Smith made a Motion not to sign the MOU, with a Second by Commissioner  toi fix this issue and it has been stated the state.  Services (DHHS).  Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0)  26    Tax Assessor's Office Compromise Parcel #57796  Tax Assessor Phillips stated that this agenda item was ai result ofa discovery wherein the business began in October 2014 per business listing forms. Per statute, anytime property was not listed, a discovery was conducted which went back 5 years. The property owner was asking the Board to waive the penalties in the amount of $3,659.22. Due to the property's location being in the Town ofWilliamston, the tax payer would havet to appeal tot the Town of Williamston fort those penalties and the Board ofCommissioners were only deciding on the penalties related to the County. Chairman Board Jr asked if this matter could be heard by the Board of ENR and Tax Assessor Phillips reported that compromises were not included in the resolution of the Board of! ENR. Tax Assessor Phillips added that the Board could add compromises to the resolution for the Board of Commissioner Ayers asked for the recommendation and Tax Assessor Phillips gave her recommendation to follow the statute to be fair and proper notices were sent out in multiple methods, but general statute 105-312, gave the Board the ability to compromise. Commissioner Smith asked how this matter was discovered and Tax Assessor Phillips responded that Social media walk through, drive - bys, websites were utilized and information was sent to Board members asked questions for clarification and Tax Assessor Phillips gave clarification on  ENR.  the businesses. the facts oft the matter.  County Attorney Eisner advised the Board with legal understanding of the issue.  Commissioner Gurganus Motioned to forgive the penalties with a Second by Commissioner Ayes: Chairman Bond Jr., Vice Chair Biggs, Commissioner Smith, and Commissioner  Smith. The Motion was Carried (4-1). Vote:  Gurganus Nays: Commissioner Ayers 5.1 District # 2 Recovery Court  Interim County Manager Eisner reported that Chief Deputy Sheriff Drew Robinson gave an informative presentation on the goals, progress, successes, and needs for the Recovery Court in a previous meeting. An additional funding allocation was requested in the amount of $15,000.00 Commissioner Ayers commenting seeing this program in action and it was a very good program.  due to certain circumstances.  27    Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to approve the allocation for District 2 Recovery Court with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  4. NACo Annual Conference  Interim County Manager. Eisner stated that a voting delegate needed be voted on: for the. July 2023 Commissioner Smith made the Motion for the Chair and Vice Chair tol be the voting delegate and vice delegate, with a Second by Vice Chair Biggs. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Vote: Ayes: Chairman Bond Jr., Vice Chair Biggs, and Commissioner Smith  National Association of Counties (NACo) meeting.  Nays: Ayers and Gurganus 5. NACo Voting Delegate  Commissioner Ayers reported that there was a lot ofd discussion on this item, but he wanted to add itt to the agenda for further discussion. Commissioner Ayers commented that that the amount of money spent on travel, eating out, drinking whiskey etc. for the last three years was just appalling Commissioner Ayers stated that Commissioner Smith alluded to counties not traveling coming up short, but Martin County had come up short. Commissioner Ayers stated Martin County received ac cardboard check received from D.C., but hadn'treceived the money yet. Commissioner Ayers stated that he wasi not sure ifthis money would be received because ofmismanagement, or that the money was not there, or the inability to do SO. Commissioner Ayers stated that quite a few opportunities for grants that were missed due to mismanagement by thej previous County Manager. Commissioner Ayers added that the Mayor ofBear Grass received more: money that then County. Economic Development Director and Commissioner Gurganus reportedly went to Raleigh to try tor receive money towards a shell building, and Commissioner Ayers did not think that there were any charges to the County for that. Commissioner Ayers stated that these were modern times, wherein phones and computers could be used, a lot could be done from the office and travel and spending thousands wasi not necessary to talk to others for help as he and Commissioner Gurganus had already done SO. Commissioner Ayers referred to the Chairman' s statement about attending a conference and the Speaker ofthe House asked ifa anyone was there representing Martin County. Commissioner Ayers stated that whether Chairman Bond Jr. was there or not, Speaker Moore already knew about the closure of the hospital as well as legislators because they were already contacted about it. Commissioner Ayers stated that he, Commissioner Gurganus, and some members of the public had walked those streets and halls before. It was stated that Raleigh was not expensive and Commissioner Ayers did not see an issue with traveling to Raleigh sometimes, but physical presence was not always needed and money didn'tneed to be spent. Commissioner Ayers did have an issue with Texas, Tampa Bay, etc. as they were expensive trips. Commissioner Ayers stated that he had not been to a big convention, but he knew what happened and there was generally a lot of conferencing going on amongst attendees to personally help each other. Commissioner Ayers reiterated the use of technology to develop Martin County. The budget ordinance that was passed fort the upcoming year was reportedlyexpensive with the travel expenses  28    and when Commissioner Ayers suggested decreases the travel budget, he knew what was going to happen and was testing the waters. A lobbyist was reportedly that came to the Board about two years ago to help the County receive funding, but Commissioner Ayers stated that the former County Manager reportedly got rid ofthis idea. Emily Miller was stated to have been working on grants and couldn't get cooperation from the former County Manager, therefore the County came up short in missing opportunities. Commissioner Ayers addressed Chairman Bond Jr. and stated that he submitted flyers and brochures regarding a conference that anyone could have picked up and that they were not reports. Commissioner Ayers also addressed Chairman Bond Jr. stating that he had the arrogance to take the credit of all the things that had been done by NCDOT. Commissioner Ayers stated that he attended the Southern Albemarle meetings, knew what was going on, and one monkey didn'tdrive the show. It was reported that the all ofthe travel expenses were ludacris, he was tired of seeing it, and he knew that taxpayers were tired of their monies Chairman Bond Jr. asked Commissioner Ayers how many Sothern Albemarle meetings had he been to in the last two years. Commissioner Ayers stated that he couldn't remember but he had been to most. Chairman Bond Jr. reported that he had been attending those meetings since 1983 and he could count how many he missed and Commissioner Ayers couldn'ti remember how many he attended. Commissioner Ayers responded that he did not attend them all, he couldn'tt tell how many meetings there were in a year, but the meetings were held in the morning when he had to work. Commissioner Ayers stated that he did what he could when he could, he didn'thave an issue with admitting this, the Mayor ofBear Grass Charlotte Griffin could get a group together to replace him, and he had to drive to Plymouth from Oak City for those meetings wherein Chairman Bond Jr. drove the County vehicle. Chairman Bond Jr. disagreed and stated that he never drove the Commissioner Smith discussed statements that were made in regards to alcohol. Commissioner Smith stated that he doesn't drink or smoke and for someone to say that county funding was used Audience members began speaking aloud about receipts that allegedly had alcohol purchases on them and Commissioner Smith reported that those were person credit card receipts. Commissioner Ayers stated that he did not point Commissioner Smith out as a drinker, but alcohol had been paid  going to waste.  county vehicle to those meetings.  on alcohol, everyone knew that this was prohibited and against the law.  for by the taxpayers money and the receipts were evidence. Chairman Bond Jr. asked ift there were any further discussion.  Commissioner Gurganus asked if there would be a vote on this matter in the future and ift the vote was to decide if there were going to be any attendees. Interim County Manager Eisner reported that this agenda item was on the agenda by request of Commissioner Ayers. Commissioner Gurganus stated that one person could go as the delegate for Martin County and asked to move  forward with the meeting.  29    Audit Contract- Carr, Riggs, and Ingram  Carr, Riggs, and Ingram conducted financial audits for Martin County in the past and the contract for these services needed to be renewed. The Board was asked to approve oft the audit contract to Commissioner Smith briefly discussed the complications in finding an auditing company. Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Ingram, Carr, Riggs Audit Contract, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  continue services for the upcoming year.  5. Budget Amendment(s) Budget Amendment #54 collected.  Budget Amendment #54 is to adjust the fire district funds to account for additional tax revenue  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-S4  BEI ITC 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 Section 1. To amend the Fire District Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as  June 30, 2024. follows.  Increase $15,000 $2 2,000  Decrease  Public Safety  Hamilton Fire Goose Nest Fire  This will result in an increase of$17,000 in the expenditures of the Fire District Fund. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Tax  Ad Valorem Tax  $17,000  Section 2. Copies oft 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 12th day of. June 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  (5-0).  30    Budget Amendment #55 TDA as collected.  Occupancy tax is on track tol have a recording setting year. This amendment increases the revenue and expenditure lines for occupancy tax, SO that the funds can be remitted to the Martin County  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-SS  BEITORDAINED by the Board ofCommissioners ofl Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending  June 30, 2024.  Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  Increase $42,000  Decrease  Economic and Physical Development Room Occupancy  This will result in an increase of$42,000 in the expenditures oft the General Fund. Toj provide an increase in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Taxes  $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 Gurganus and Seconded by Vice Chair Biggs to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of. June 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  For your information 2461500569300 2498000 598110 2400018 427000  INC $40,000 $2,000 $42,000  DEC  Travel and Tourism Transfer to General Fund Room Occupancy Tax Budget Amendment #56  Budget Amendment #56 includes the following items:  1. Bulk Waste fees, the roll offs at the landfill have increased this year. 2. The amounts allocated to Court Facilities for utilities and Building and grounds maintenance is not enough to cover actual expenses. Court facilities pays a portion oft the bills for the governmental center out of fees earned by the Courts. 3. Youth Detention has continued to increase this year, with two minors in custody, 4. The number of autopsies and investigations has increased this year.  31    5. The hospitalization insurance for the register of deeds office was calculated incorrectly in 6. Use Automation Enhancement funds budget increased for computer indexing. The amount ofi insurance allocated to the building which Martin Enterprises uses was more than  the original budget for the 23-24 year.  was budgeted.  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-S6  BEI 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, 2024.  Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  Increase $35,000 $8,000 $15,000 $20,000 $ 5,000 $ 115  Decrease  Economic and Physical Development  Landfill General Government Court Facilities Regof! Deeds Public Safety Youth Detention Medical Examiner Human Services Vocational Rehab  This will result in an increase of $83,115 in the expenditures oft the General Fund. To provide an increase in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Fund Balance  $83,115  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 Gurganus and Seconded by Vice Chair Biggs to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day ofJune 2024. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0).  For your information 1141600 533000 1141600535100 1141800518300 1141800518310 1141800 549900  INC $ 5,000 $3,000 $ 9,000 S 1,000 $ 5,000  DEC  Utilities Bldgs & Grounds Hospitalization Hospitalization Automation Enhancement  32    Youth Services Detention Medical Examiner Bulk Waste Insurance  1143200: 569306 1143600519300 1147200: 539910 1152500: 545000  $20,000 $5,000 $35,000 115  Budget Amendment #57  Budget Amendment #57 is to adjust the fire district funds to account for additional tax revenue  collected.  BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-S7  BE: IT ORDAINED by the Board ofCommissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending  June 30, 2024. follows:  Section 1. To amend the Fire District Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as  Increase 1 1,000 $3 3,000 $23,000  Decrease  Public Safety  Jamesville Fire Goose Nest Fire Hamilton Fire  This will result in an increase of $27,000 in the expenditures oft the Fire District Fund. To provide an increase ini revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Tax  Ad Valorem Tax  $27,000  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 12th day ofJune 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  (5-0).  Budget Amendment #58  Recovery Court uses a team of court and community professionals to help ensure that offenders who are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol receive the intensive treatment they need to become healthy, law abiding, and productive family and community members. Adulti trecovery court works  with non-violent, repeat offenders who are facing jail/prison time.  33    BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-58  BEI IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners ofl Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending  June 30, 2024.  Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows.  Increase $15,000  Decrease  Human Services  Drug Recovery Court  This will result in an increase of$15,000 in the expenditures of the Fire District Fund. Toj provide an increase ini revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed.  Fund Balance  $15,000  Section 2. Copies ofthis budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Motion by Commissioner Smith and Seconded by Vice Chair Biggs to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day ofJune 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction.  For Your Information 1158750: 569921 1100090.499099  Increase $15,000 $15,000  Decrease  Drug Recovery Court Fund Balance  CLOSED SESSION(S) -1. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(3) Attorney/ Client Privilege in the matters of Bennett VS Martin County and Opioid Litigation, and 3. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. Around 9:52 p.m., Commissioner Biggs made a Motion to Enter Closed Session, 1. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(3) Attorney/ Client Privilege in the matters of Bennett VS Martin County and Opioid Litigation, and 2. N.C.GS-143-318.118/L.C/0,Personel, with a Second by Commissioner At 10:09_p.m. Commission Smith made a Motion to Exit Closed Session 1. N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11. (a)(3) Attorney/ Client Privilege in the matters of Bennett VS Martin County and Opioid Litigation, and 2. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel, with a Second by Commissioner  (a)(4) Personnel  Smith. The Motion Carried unanimously (5-0).  Gurganus. Motion Carried unanimously (5-0).  34    OPEN SESSION  Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement - May 2024  Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the financial statement for his role as Interim County Manager was reviewed by the Board, the Finance Office, and Human Resources. The total Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Approve of the Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement for the month ofl May 2024, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The  financial statement was reportedly $4,810.82.  Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). Bennett V. Martin County  County Attorney Eisner stated that the Bennett VS Martin County lawsuit would usually involve the County Attorney for counsel. County Attorney Eisner could not counsel the Board in this lawsuit due to his dual role as County Attorney and Interim County Manager. County Attorney Eisner advised the Board retain employment law counsel to represent the County in this lawsuit Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to retain the law firm suggested, with a Second by  with Teague, Campbell, Dennis & Gorham LLP from Raleigh, NC. Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). BOARD REPORIS/COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS - NONE  ADJOURNMENT  At: 10:13 pm, Commissioner Smith Motioned to adjourn with a Second by Vice Chair Biggs. The  Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0).  Brbga Jr., Chairman Commissioners  Martin  B County Board of pulis 3. Lose  Julia S. Rease Clerk to the Board  35