March 21, 2024 Special Call Meeting The Martin County Board of Commissioners met in a Special Called meeting to hear outside agency budget requests and recommendations for the 2024 - 2025 Fiscal Year Budget process. The meeting took place on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Board Room of the Martin County Governmental Center, 305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina. ASSEMBLY Those attending the meeting were Chairman Dempsey Bond, Jr., Vice Chair Emily Biggs, Commissioner Joe R. Ayers, Commissioner Ronnie Smith, Commissioner David "Skip" Gurganus, County Attorney/Interim County Manager Benjamin R. Eisner, Clerk to the Board Julia S. Rease, and Finance Officer Cindy Ange. Others in attendance: Sheriff Tim Manning Chairman Bond Jr. called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Gurganus provided the invocation and Commissioner Biggs led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chairman Bond Jr welcomed everyone in attendance. AGENDA APPROVAL Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve the agenda, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. Motion was Carried unanimously. NEW BUSINESS Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park = Request for Tap Fee Compromise Interim County Manager Benjamin R. Eisner stated that a property, currently called Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park, had water taps installed with the previous owner. A new owner purchased the property and the debt passed to the owner and not with the taps, which caused grey areas in resolving the issue. Interim County Manager Eisner stated a possible resolution, which was to waive the water tap fees, charge the current property owner for the cost of the meters plus a 20% surcharge, and the property owner to become water customers. Water Systems Manager Cody Cratt stated that there were 35 water taps at the Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park. The debt on the taps were reportedly already associated with the water system and the County was paying for this. Water Systems Manager Cratt reported that the proposed resolution, previously stated, would generate some of the revenue back by instantly creating 35 new customers in Water District #2. Water Systems Manager Cratt added that the current property owner was responsible in paying $150.00 to the County. It was stated that this would not add any more debt, but this would only help pay the debt down. Commissioner Smith asked how long had it been since the water taps were installed and Water Systems Manager Cratt responded that the water taps were installed around 2006. Systems Manager Cratt added that the water taps had not been utilized in about 20 years. Commissioner Ayers asked for clarification in the water taps being installed in 2006 and Water Systems Manager Cratt agreed. Water Systems Manager Cratt explained that the water taps were installed when the water system was being developed , water lines were being installed, and when a special cost for water taps were offered. It was stated that about 2 months before the water systems began running, the previous owner of the mobile home park went into bankruptcy and the County had to take on the responsibility of the water taps. Commissioner Ayers asked how the current owner went about buying the property. The property owner, Mr. Bud Swain, was in attendance to give clarification. Mr. Swain stated that he brought the property from the bank. Commissioner Ayers asked if the property was in foreclosure. Mr. Swain stated that the property was under foreclosure and he bought the property from the bank. Commissioner Ayers asked if the residents at the mobile home park were using well water. Mr. Swain responded that the mobile home park had a water system that had two deep wells used together. Commissioner Ayers asked ifMr. Swain wanted to put the mobile home park on County Water and Mr. Swain agreed. Commissioner Smith made a Motion to Approve waiving the water tap fees with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. Motion was Carried unanimously by raise of hands (5-0). OUTER AGENCY PRESENTATIONS Interim County Manager Eisner reported on the process wherein Outer Agencies would report on their programs and state their request or recommendations for the upcoming budget year. Chief Deputy Drew Robinson District #2 Chief Deputy Drew Robinson gave a report on the District # 2 Recovery Court. The program was reported to be working and received an increase in the number of participants who were graduating. Chief Deputy Robinson made comments on the impact of the program on participants who were struggling with addiction to substances and how hard they worked to make progress. This year, Chief Deputy Robinson recommended a County allocation of $25, 0000.00 on the behalf of the District #2 Recovery Court program. The District #2 Recovery Court Program was stated to be very intensive when it came to trcatment, drug testing, court dates, transportation for various activities, arrangement of after care programs, and more. The main needs of funding were for transportation and after care activities Chief Deputy Robinson explained that the program had a group of alumni that meet on a regular basis. Some alumni have stated that they excelled while they were participants with the structure and support from staff. Several alumni stated feeling that their support was taken away after graduation. The participants and alumni were stated to not have any or a lot of support, but did with the program staff. The program staff reportedly helped participants with groceries, shoes, clothing, and any other support that could be provided. Staff development and training were areas that needed funded as well. Chief Deputy Drew Robinson explained that more staff development and training were needed as different and new types of substances were entering the County, such as crystal meth. ChiefDeputy Drew Robinson ended his presentation with thanking and showing appreciation to the Board for its support in the program. Ms. Kimberly Knight was introduced as the Recovery Court Coordinator and Chief District #2 Court Judge Regina Parker attendance was noted. Commissioner Smith commented on the program and stated his support in the program Commissioner Smith reported attending the first graduation and listening to the participants stories. Commissioner Smith stated that in listening to those life stories and seeing the progress made, the program proved to be a great investment. Commissioner Gurganus agreed to the comments made by Commissioner Smith. Commissioner Gurganus reported serving in various capacities with Chief District #2 Court Judge Parker and the staff was of a caliber in which nothing, but good could come from the program. Commissioner Ayers reported being involved in the program as well, he thought that it was a great program, and witnessed a graduation with Chief District #2 Court Judge Parker as well. Commissioner Ayers stated that the progress would bring tears to everyone's eyes. Commissioner Ayers stated that the staff and the program did such good to the participants in relieving them of addiction with everyone's s help and guidance was awesome. Chief Deputy Drew Robinson stated that as a parent and a human, when there was a participant in the program that started to turn their life around, and their parent witnesses this weeping and thankful that their daughter or son was being brought back to them as their child was restored to who they used to be before addiction. Chief District #2 Court District Judge Parker stated that she couldn't thank the Board enough for its support. It was stated that the program had taken people who were broken, trauma in their lives, and those that made some bad choices and given them support, encouragement, and love. The program was stated to bring whole and restored citizens back to the community who could work again, be productive, and reconcile with their loved ones. District 2 ChiefJudger Parker stated that addiction was hard and it ravished families. To be a part in the process of giving individuals back to their families, children, and loved ones, the weeping parents; was a gift to the team and staff. ChiefCourt District #2 Commissioner Smith made a comment in regards to Chief District 2 Judge Parker, the staff, and reiterated a comment made by another. Judge from Florida who was aware ofthe program in Martin County and spoke highly ofit. Wright Flight - Drew Robinson ChiefDeputy SheriffDrew Robinson talked about the Wright Flight program, wherein a Field Day event took place today. 270 students reportedly attended the event who were 6th grade students from Martin County. The goal ofthe program and the event was to expose students to aviation at an early age to spark an interest and expose students to what many children didn't get to experience; looking, sitting, and flying airplanes. Chief Deputy Sheriff Robinson reported that as the program progressed, students were given block testing on the Wright Flight Program that covered such topics such as the history ofaviation. Students sign a behavior contract; wherein they agree to change certain behaviors, agree to improve a certain grade that was low before, etc. Ifthe students complete their agreement, the Wright Flight program pays for that student and a parent to fly around the County with a certified pilot and do some maneuvers under the guidance of the flight instructor. Chief Deputy Sheriff Robinson stated that there were no request for increase in funds. Everyone was invited join the Wright Flight staff and participants at Fly Day on May 18, 2024. Commissioner Smith commented that the County was blessed to have such program and mentioned that there were not many Counties that had a Wright Flight Program. The program idea reportedly derived from Beaufort County some years ago and Commissioner Smith stated that a seed planted in a child, could take that child to far places. Commissioner Smith stated that there were some people older than he was that had not been in a plane before and encouraged Chief Deputy Sheriff Robinson to keep up his good work. Commissioner Gurganus commended Chief Deputy Sheriff Robinson on his various endeavors with the County and the great job he was doing, especially in areas that many people would not want to take on. Commissioner Ayers stated that Chief Deputy Sheriff Robinson was a trooper in the Recovery Court Program and as the Wright Flight Director. Commissioner Ayers commented on the hours of work it took to be the Wright Flight Program Director by itself. Center of Family Violence Sandy Rhodes Sandy Rhodes, Outreach Director and Counselor referred to a pamphlet with services provided by the Center of Family Violence Prevention. Some of the services provided were: Victim Advocacy Crisis intervention Safety planning Case management Assistance in filing for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (sometimes referred to as a DVPO, restraining order, or 50b) Referrals for legal assistance Address confidentiality program Victim compensation claims Counseling Individual and Group Counseling, Domestic Violence Specialized Classes Safe House Shelter for Domestic Violence victims Legal Services - Free legal consultation and representation services are available to every domestic violence survivor in need of civil and/or family law services (e.g., domestic violence protective orders, custody orders, divorce, real equity property distribution, etc.). The legal team comprising an advocate, paralegal, and attorney, offers wraparound support for survivors to ensure their legal needs are identified and addressed. Child Services Child Counseling Parenting After Separation and Divorce Triple P Parenting Classes Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) The center located in Williamston was reported to be a satellite site with its headquarters being in Greenville, NC. The Center was reported to serve a population of female, male, and LGBTQ populations. Outreach Director and Counselor Rhodes stated that the Center for Family Violence Prevention had a shelter that was stated to have had renovations conducted and was now available for clients. Outreach Director and Counselor Rhodes added that the Center for Family Violence Prevention provided outreach service presentations to churches, high school students, and clubs such as the Rotary Club. Outreach Director and Counselor introduced Ms. Katherine Barkley whom was the newly hired attorney at the Center and a past employee of a legal aid company. Attorney Barkley was stated to assist families with custody documents and requests, wherein legal aid was too expensive for most clients being serviced at the center. Attorney Barkley reiterated that she was hired by the Center to assist clients with custody issues who could not hire an attorney due to finances. Attorney Barkley stated that in custody exchange issues, law enforcement was usually called and law enforcement would inform the clients that they needed a custody order and that the problem was a civil issue. Attorney Barkley added that she was hired to help the District Attorney's Office and Judges with the relationship with the States witnesses and victims of crime as well. Attorney Barkley stated that she was happy to assist with custody issues, divorces, and any issues that the clients were going through. Lastly, Attorney Barkley commended Outreach Director and Counselor Sandy Rhodes for advocating for Martin County and especially for the clients. Commissioner Gurganus asked if the Center for Family Violence Prevention assisted Child Welfare Services. Outreach Director and Counselor stated that the Center assisted with Child Welfare with parenting classes and that the classes were required in some Child Welfare Services cases in order for children to return to their parents. Outreach Director and Counselor Rhodes stated that some parents were not aware of some of the basic needs for children such as bed times, proper discipline skills, how to get children up for school properly, etc. Domestic Violence (DV) 101 classes were also required in some Child Welfare cases; wherein some parents were in DV situations, a cycle of dating abusers, and Outreach Director Rhodes stated most victims returned 7 times before leaving the situation again. Counselor Rhodes stated that most clients were referred from the Department of Social Services. Economic Development Corporation - EDC Director Steve Biggs EDC Director Steve Biggs thanked the County for past support given and cooperation in joint efforts on the behalf ofthe staff and EDC Board. EDC Director Biggs stated the he, the EDC staff, and the EDC Board wanted to be a conduit in the Board of Commissioners endeavor to make Martin County a place to conduct business. Statistically, EDC Director Biggs stated that the County's efforts to this mission had been enormous over the last several years. There had been more than $253 million of announced investments and over 1,495 jobs created or retained since 2011. EDC Director stated that the Economic Development Corporation would continue to market all ofMartin County; including the NC Rail and Commerce Park, Jamesville - Greenville Site, and any new sites that may become available. The Economic Development Corporation was stated to continue to market its two industrial buildings; the former Big City Gyro building and the site now known as the Jamesville Building. The Big City Gyro building was stated to have been a challenge due to its age and layout, but had the advantage of refrigeration and freezer space. The Jamesville building was stated to have just become available on the market, was. just east of Jamesville, and the EDC was stated to have increased their marketing efforts with the owners. The former AR Textiles and former asphalt plants were reportedly sold this year and had the potential to bring in at least 40 jobs if not more by way of the asphalt company needing truck drivers. The EDC staff continues to market directly to potential customers as well as leveraging relationships with Statewide Economic Development Partnerships of North Carolina (EDPNC), the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and North Carolina East Alliance, North Carolina Railroad and CSX for additional exposure. EDC Director Biggs reported that there was a significant demand for industrial buildings across the staff and the EDC saw this through letters received from the EDPNC and the Department of Commerce. The lack of available buildings and demand for them was stated to cause businesses to move rural. North Carolina was reported to be the number one state in the nation to conduct business. Many more companies are looking. One oft the goals for EDC was to increase the Telecenter tenant occupancy by 90% and this goal was met by way of additional marketing. There was one office reportedly left at the Telecenter. The increased tenant rate helped offset expenses of the building. The conference rooms at the Telecenter had an increase in training sessions and participants. EDC Director Biggs stated that there was a slight increase of the County allocation > totaling in $168,788.00. In the 2023-2024 FY Budget for the County, at the request ofthe EDC, an additional $272,500.00 was set aside to offset half of the work needed for a Site Ready Pad at the Industrial Park. Due to unforeseen reasons with the engineering firm, the site would not be completed by the June 30, 2024 goal. A new firm and contractor were reportedly working on the pad to complete the work in a timely manner. MC EDC Director Biggs asked that this appropriation from last year is carried over to this year's s County allocation towards MC EDC. On behalf ofthe MC EDC Board of Directors, MC EDC Steve Biggs thanked the Martin County Board of Commissioners and County staff for their past support and them looking forward to continuing the relationship to move Martin County forward. Lastly, MC EDC Director Steve Biggs stated that as the Highway 17/64 Association President, he was asked to relay a message from Mr. Mark Finlayson, who could not attend the meeting. MCEDC and Highway 17/64 President Steve Biggs stated that no changes were requested in the County allocation for the Highway 17/64 Association. Mr. Finlayson and the Highway 17/64 Association were thankful for Martin County's support over the past years. Martin Community College (MCC) - Vice President Billy Barber and Finance Officer Tammy Bailey Vice President Billy Barber thanked Interim County Manager Benjamin Eisner, Chairman Dempsey Bond Jr, and the Martin County Board of Commissioners for allowing Martin Community College to attend and talk about their budget. Vice President Barber stated that Martin Community College would not exist without the partnership with the County as community colleges were dual funded entities and needed County support with facilities, maintenance, and the State supported the instruction. Vice President Barber stated that inflation had affected everyone, which had taken its toll on the MCC budget overtime. The utility, power, gas, sewer, water costs had increased over the years, with power expenses being inflated the most. MCC reportedly converted almost all oftheir lighting to LED. In addition, oil burner were converted to gas, but there still was an increase in expenses. MCC was supposedly hit with a 7 - 1/2% increase and in the past, the increase was usually around 2-3%. MCC Vice President stated that there was an increase in wages, benefits, and medical benefits for maintenance personnel. The State reportedly funded MCC well for administration with a close to $8 million investment. The facilities were approaching 50 years old and were aging with work being needed to the infrastructure from time to time. MCC Finance Officer Tammy Bailey was asked to discuss the financial numbers on the behalf of the college. This year, the budget request was $1,210,950.00, which was a 6.49% ($ 73,828.00) increase from the request submitted for last year's budget. MCC received funding from Martin County, Bertie County, the Town of Windsor, and the State. The funding from Bertie County and the Town of Windsor were strictly for the facilities in Bertie County. The State funding allocation was strictly for instruction and administration. The community reportedly contributed to MCC by way oftuition, which was set by the Legislature. MCC Finance Officer Bailey stated that additional fees were received and locally set. MCC reportedly try to keep down these fees down to prevent financial hardship and increase affordability. MCC Finance Officer Bailey stated the reality ofthe cost increase in operations, facilities, and maintenance was outpacing what their budget was, which was not sustainable. In the past, Federal Relief funds were received and offset some expenses, but were no longer available. MCC had to operate from allocations. MCC Finance Officer referred to a handout that showed the trends of allocations received over the years. Overall, in the last 6 years, the net decrease was $47, 313.00 in regards to allocations. MCC Vice President Barber talked reiterated the appreciation that Martin Community College had from the County. MCC Vice President discussed a few highlights regarding Martin Community College and its services. MCC reportedly leveraged NC bond funds to bring funding directly to the County for facilities. $2 million funding mentioned, went towards a public safety-training center for law enforcement and emergency services. This center was stated to be used daily. Martin Community College reportedly ranked #1 across the State amongst Community colleges for student transfers. Law Enforcement training (BLET) had a 100% pass rate from the last two classes. Collaboration between the community college to the school system. The last class in the Physical Therapy Assistant Program also had a 100% pass rate on their exam. MCC was reportedly re accredited for its Medical Assistant Program. MCC Vice President stated that MCC was proud to work with Martin County Schools more with the development of the Early College. MCC Vice President Barber stated that it was a great thing that high school students could attend college courses at no cost. Chairman Bond Jr. asked how many employees there were at MCC. MCC Vice President Barber stated that there were six full time and three part time employees. Chairman Bond Jr. asked iftheir raises came from the County and MCC Vice President Barber agreed that the raises did come from the County. Commissioner Gurganus discussed how the Martin County Schools Superintendent was introducing children to vocational employment and trades and them being viable career paths. Commissioner Gurganus asked Mr. Barber to inform him more about these programs at Martin Community College in regards to Early College. MCC Vice President Barber stated that MCCI had relationships with Martin County Schools and Bertie County Schools. Vice President Barber continued to state that pathways were created, that would lead to different paths; such as 4-year degrees or employment in trades. The pathways included subjects such as Advance Manufacturing subjects / Industrial systems Programs (welding, industrial maintenance, Programmable Logic Certificate (PLC), mechatronics, electronics, etc.). MCC Vice President Barber explained the subjects that were provided by each campus. Commissioner Gurganus asked ifthere was an issue with finding someone from the area to teach the classes and asked of Martin Community College had a network of industries that assisted and could recruit students from the trade/vocational programs. MCC Vice President agreed to both questions and explained the network that MCC had supporting their trade/ vocational programs as well recruiting students from MCC for jobs. Chairman Bond Jr. asked about the number of Martin County students attending Early College. MCC Vice President reported that around 40-50 students, but Bertie County students were taking advantage of the program more. Commissioner Ayers mentioned hearing that administration was going to delay a BLET program and mentioned that he, Sheriff Tim Manning, and Chief Deputy Drew Robinson pushed the class to start on time. Commissioner Ayers reported that the efforts made worked and recommended that Martin Community College make sure that the classes were not delayed in the future as it was pertinent that the class started on time as the Sheriff S Office had three vacancy's. Board members thanked Martin Community College for their services provided and time. NC Forestry Service Martin County Ranger, District 7, Dan Glazewski Martin County District 7 Ranger Dan Glazewski introduced himself and the Assistant Ranger, Jordan Rodgers and passed out the recommended budget for the upcoming fiscal year. An increase in salary, benefits, and a maintenance was recommended. The main reasoning for the increase in the recommended County allocation was reportedly due to the need of a new Type 6 Initial Attack Engine. According the NC Forest Serve Agency Policy, the current engine truck was over the 110,000/ 10-year timeframe. The vehicles main uses were for fire response, fire suppression, and held 175 gallons of water. The District 7 Forestry Service had a cooperative budget. This meant that the State provided 60% ofthe Forestry Service budget and 40% was provided by the County. The State reportedly attained a few trucks from Ford every year at the wholesale price. Ranger Glazewski gave a County breakdown for the cost of the Type 6 Initial Attack Engine: Vehicle Cost: $60,000.00 Total $24,000.00 - County share of the cost (40%) Outfitting for the Vehicle (sirens. tools, lights. and other equipment): $13.000.00 Total $5, 200.00 - County share of the cost (40%) Total County Cost for Vehicle: $29,200.00 Next, Ranger Glazewski discussed increases in line items as stated: $ 500.00 increase for new uniforms $350.00 increase for power/electricity due to inflation $1000.00 increase in gas (overall total including State 60 % contribution) Lastly, Ranger Glazewski reiterated the importance of the vehicles used to put out fires and stated that the Fire Departments helped out, but could not always get to them. Ranger Glazewski thanked the Board for its support. Commissioner Gurganus asked about the policy and the equipment being $13,000.00. He asked if it would cost more to retrofit everything. Ranger Glazewski responded that fittings on the pumps wore out, especially with the weather. Ranger Glazewski added that staff tried to use as much of the old equipment to install into new vehicles. The up fitting costs were majority things that could not be transferred such as lights, sirens, and radios. The Forest Service reportedly were saving money by utilizing the radio engineers from the forestry to install equipment. If the truck was purchased from a Wildlife buyer supplier it would costs a little under $125, 000.00. All Board members thanked the NC Forestry Service for their services. CLOSED SESSION -1. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a) (6) Personnel At 8:05 p.m., Commissioner Biggs made the Motion to Enter Closed Session 1. N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11(a) (6) Personnel, with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried unanimously by raise of hands (5-0). At 8:46 p.m., Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Exit to Closed Session 1.N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11(a) (6) Personnel, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). OPEN SESSION No business was discussed in Open Session in response to the Closed Session. Adjournment At - 8:47 p.m.. Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to adjourn the meeting, with a Second by Commissioner Ayers. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0). a Jampory Bndo, Démps-y/Bond Jr., Chaiyman Martin County Board of Commissioners fuli JBone Julia S. Rease Clerk to the Board