March 12, 2025 The Martin County Board ofCommissioners met in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Boardroom of the Martin County Governmental Center, 305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina. ASSEMBLY Those attending the meeting were Chairman Joe R. Ayers, Vice Chair David "Skip" Gurganus, Commissioner Dempsey Bond Jr., Commissioner Jeremiah Taylor, and Commissioner Ronnie Smith, Interim County Manager/ County Attorney Benjamin R. Eisner, County Clerk Julia S. Rease, Finance Officer Angela Raynor, and Human Resources Director Donna Zube. Others in attendance: Town of Williamston Commissioner David Richmond, Town of Bear Grass Mayor Charlotte Griffin, Town of Robersonville Mayor Tina Brown, and Sheriff Drew Robinson WELCOME Chairman Ayers called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. Chairman Ayers welcomed all in attendance and asked that elected officials stand to be recognized. Commissioner Bond Jr. provided the Pledge of Allegiance and Vice Chairman Gurganus provided the invocation. Commissioner Taylor made an announcement regarding the Board using electronic agenda packets for the first time and asked that the audience to have patience as the Board acclimated to the new format. Commissioner Taylor commented positively on the Clerks transition to the electronic packets and inserting tabs to assist the Board. AGENDA APPROVAL Chairman Ayers stated that it was a challenge to have to change the agenda around right before a meeting began and asked Department heads to turn in agenda items on time. Chairman Ayers asked ifthe following changes could be made to the agenda: - Move Item 14 to New Business as Item 8 - Add Board of Equalization and Review Reappointments under the Consent Agenda as Item #14 - Add the Server Acquisition Budget Amendment #34 to New Business in Budget Amendments Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve the Agenda and stated the changes, with a Second by Commissioner Taylor. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). PUBLIC COMMENTS 2 1.Mr. Barkley Sample- 3557 Londonville Lane, Raleigh, NC, 27604 - "The reason I am here isjust to follow up from my appearance at the February 12th meeting. We have out next mobile pantry food distribution between Catholic Charities and the Food Bank ofthe Albemarle is for next Thursday, March 20th. Without being overly redundant for what I spoke about last time, there were, I was given some assurances, that that date, not the date, but the location of using the Williamston Farmers Market would be locked in. We told people that we would distribute from there next week and until this point we still have not been able to secure an agreement or finalize that, SO, my appearance here today is basically just to ask for steps we need to take to move that forward. Some ofthe challenges of not having aj permanent location, we did have to use an alternate location for the February distribution. We normally distribute to about 250 families. We only had 189 families appear at our last distribution, SO we had 61 families that could not make it to the location that we had to substitute for. If we have to use an alternate location again, next week, we run the danger again oflosing additional families and the bigger issue with that, not only for folks not getting food for a second consecutive month from the program, but once they miss two consecutive months, then they get a warning and a third miss, drops them from the rolls of the program. So, it is vitally important that we have a stable location that we're distributing from each month, SO that people know where to come to pick up their food." 2.Mr. Paul Robinson = 1887 Bonnie Best Road, Williamston "Tonight, I want to talk about leadership. Merriam Webster's defines leadership as: 1. The office or position of a leader. 2. The capacity to lead. 3. The act or instance of leading. The role of a leader, especially a chairman, is more than just holding office it's about the ability to lead and take action to create positive outcomes. In August 2023, under Chairman Ronnie Smith, Martin County lost Martin General Hospital. His lack of proactive action before and during the closure, along with his failure to respond effectively to Quorum Health, showed a significant leadership failure. Regardless of any future legal matters; be it criminal or civil, Chairman Smith's legacy will be forever linked to the closure of our hospital. In December 2023, leadership shifted to Mr. Bond. While he held the chairmanship, it often felt as though Mr. Smith still had influence behind the scenes. There were unnecessary trips, frivolous spending, and a troubling lack of transparency. Little progress was made during that period. However, now, in just three months under Chairman Ayers and Vice Chairman Gurganus, leadershipin our county has been restored. The new administration has set clear goals, outlined a plan of action, and been transparent with the public about how they will achieve these objectives. As someone who spends a lot oft time in the community, I can say that citizens are again excited about the direction that Martin County is heading. Everywhere I go, people are talking about the refreshing change in leadership. Apathy has turned into hope and optimism about what's to come. Since October 2023, citizens have called for a travel policy, and last month, the new leadership delivered a well-structured one. This is true leadership and what true leadership looks like. This is the kind of leadership that will restore our hospital, bring paramedics to our county, secure grants, and create jobs for our citizens. I want to thank Chairman Ayers and Vice Chairman Gurganus for their leadership, their commitment to 3 listening to the people they serve, their focus on the future. It's up to the citizenry to stay involved and support them in every way possible and also, I would like to thank Mr. Eisner for the job that he's being doing as Interim County Manager, that's all I have to say. 79 3. Mrs. Verna Perry - 2161 Jones Road, Williamston - First I'd like to say thanks to our new staffofCommissioners who have showed the citizens ofMartin County, that y'all care and y'all put the citizens first. I know there's still a lot ofhard work that has to be done, but we trust that y'all will get it done. Rome was not built in a day, SO we know it will take, it will take some time to undo a lot oft the wrong. If a police officer or state official is caught doing wrong, they are put on administrative leave. I1 believe Ronnie Smith should have been on leave or something. Now, I want you, Ronnie, to look at me the same way you looked at Mr. Coltrain last month ? because what I'm going to do is look back at you and tell you to resign." 4. Mr. Cody Melvin - 9257 West Mile Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27803 - My name is Cody Melvin. I'm the president ofGatlin Hunt Club, which was established 1952. I am here on behalf oft the club to address the board about the situation at Red Oak Fork Road. The club has been portrayed in a negative way and I am here to tell our side ofthe story. We have been made out to be uncaring about the community and other people's property. In reality, we have tried to create a positive image for the club by cleaning and painting the club house, keeping the yard mowed, and starting an Adopt-a-Highway clean up along Gatlin Hunt Club Road up to Red Oak Fork. The situation at Red Oak Fork is not from a lack of trying to be in good standing with the neighborhood and landowners around us. We feel that we have gone out of our way to accommodate the landowners come into contact with. As far as Mr. Grubb situation, we have gone as far as to offer him a free membership in the past as well as offering to let him hunt some ofthe other areas we lease. He wasn't interested in that. We have also reduced the number of months that allow running in the offseason as well as offered to work with him on days he is hunting. We have done SO in an effort to work with him. The situation has escalated on Mr. Grubbs part to include threatening members, (this includes adults, children and dogs). A police report was filed with the Martin County Sheriff's S department for that event. He has gone as far as to tell an officer that he would start shooting dogs. This was documented by the officer. He has also called dogs to him from offhis property. just SO he can carry them to the animal shelter. In past Martin County Commissioners meetings Mr. Grubb has used my name as part of his story, but in fact, his portrayal was not true. I never told him that we would run our dogs where we wanted to and there was nothing, he could do about it. Itold him that we would do everything we could to stay away from his property. The problem is that much of our land does not have roads or paths around it. Once the dogs cross a certain boundary, we are not able to get to them. We do have Garmin tracking equipment, but that does not control the movement of the dogs. Our dogs are trained that when we tone them, they will come to us or the first person they come across. In many cases, this is why they go up to Mr. Grubb's house. There are many other examples that we feel should be considered in this case. Some ofthese date back years. For the reason that we are not able to make every Commissioner meeting, I will leave you with paperwork that includes my name and phone number. We ask that you call and talk to us before making any decisions regarding running dogs in Martin County and I just want to speak that I've been on the Board for Gatling Hunting Club for five years and - just got the presidents' job over a year and the new Board that we have is really striving to make, to do the right thing for 4 the County, SO I really want y'all to consider that and I appreciate y'all letting me speak and P'll leave these papers up here, there's a copy for everybody." CONSENT AGENDA Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve the Consent Agenda, Seconded by Commissioner Bond Jr. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0). All items listed under the Consent Agenda were Approved as part oft the Consent Agenda. Minutes - February 12, 2025 Regular; February 12, 2025 Closed 1. Financial Report = February 2025 2. Tax Assessor - Tax Refund Request - February 2025 3. Tax Assessor - Tax Relief Orders = February 2025 Year Lname Fname Reason Value Total Levy 2025 Transit LLC Thomas Top Tier Adjustment $262.69 $179.06 2025 Whitley Cody Shane Adjustment $13.00 $7.14 2025 Leathers Nicolas Edward Adjustment $163.68 $137.28 Total VTS: $ 323.48 2024 INC. Word of Truth Fellowship Adjustment $ 0.00 $195.00 Total Real & Personal Releases: $195.00 Total: $518.48 4. Tax Collector's Report - February 2025 Category Jan. 2025 Jan. Y-T-D Real Property 20 $14550.30 $ 120,136.39 Personal Property 25 $882.42 $7,053.56 Total + S1 15,432.72 $127,189.95 Motor Vehicle 30 $0.00 $0.00 Total MV $0.00 $0.00 All Total $15,432.72 $127,189.95 5. Board Appointments / Reappointments a. Bear Grass ETJ Planning and Zoning Board The following members of the Bear Grass Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) Planning and Zoning Board have expiring terms ending on March 31, 2025. Ifs SO approved, these members would serve another 3-year term ending on March 31, 2028. Derek Price Diane Rogerson 5 b. Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) The Bertie Martin Regional Jail Board recommended the reappointment ofMr. Brent Jackson for another 4-year term ending on February 31, 2029 Ben Eisner Jody Griffin Callie Northern-Herring Angela Ellis Eric Manning Bernadette Rodgers Canaesha Bazemore Dianna Ortega Frank Halsey Jr. Commissioner Dempsey Bond Jr. Mayor Jerry McCray Roy Moore Susan Holliday Madison Wilkinson C. Board ofEqualization and Review The Board of Equalization and Review usually begin to convene in April of each year to handle tax appeals within the County. Each member serves a one-year term and would expire March 31, 2025. The following members were recommended for reappointment: Anita Whitehurst Donnie Pittman Hugh Kennedy Timmie Modlin Dwayne Baker 6. Tax Collector's Office - Request to Advertise 2024-25 Liens on Unpaid Taxes $105.369 ofthe Machinery Act of North Carolina: Advertisement oftax liens on real property for failure to pay taxes. (a) Report of Unpaid Taxes That Are Liens on Real Property. - In February ofeachyear, the tax collector must report to the governing body the total amount of unpaid taxes for the current fiscalyear that are liens on real property. Tax Collector Kim Ross presented the 2024-2025 Tax Collector Report of the total unpaid taxes amounting in $2,291,872.41 and requested approval of advertisement. The advertisement was approved as part of the consent agenda. 6 * MARTIN COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR 305 EAST MAIN STREET " PO BOX 664 WILLIAMSTON, NC 27892 (252) 789-4360 Fax (252) 789-4369 MARTIN county February 10, 2025 To: Board of County Commissioners From: Kimberly Ross, Martin County Tax Collector Subject: Martin County Tax Collcctor report of the total unpaid 2024-25 taxes that are liens on real property and the request for advertisement of all unpaid 2024 property taxes per G.S. 105-369. Total of unpaid 2024-25 taxes that are liens on real property as of February 10, 2025 $2,291,872.41 Request that all unpaid property taxes be advertised in the Enterprise Newspaper O1l April 3, 2025 or as soon as is possible thereafter according to G.S. 105-369 of the Machinery Act of North Carolina. Kimberly Ross - lis Koar Martin County Tax Collector 7. Resolution In Support of Martin County Early College High School Martin County Schools submitted a resolution in support ofMartin County Early College High School to the County Managers Office to be approved by the Board of Commissioners. The resolution is as stated: RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF MARTIN COUNTY EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WHEREAS, the Martin Innovative Early College High School (MIECHS) will provide students with a rigorous academic curriculum and the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and college credits, preparing them for success in higher education and the workforce; and WHEREAS, Martin Innovative Early College High School will foster a culture of academic excellence, leadership, and innovation, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in a global economy; and 7 WHEREAS, the program will reduce financial barriers to higher education by enabling students to earn college credits at no cost, increasing college accessibility and affordability for families in Martin County; and WHEREAS, MIECHS will have the ability to offer strong academiç preparation, high graduation rates, and success in preparing students for post-secondary education and careers; and WHEREAS, partnerships with local businesses, industries, and higher education institutions will enhance career readiness, workforce development, and economic growth in Martin County; and WHEREAS, continued investment and support for MIECHS will strengthen educational opportunities, benefit the community, and contribute to the long-term prosperity ofMartin County; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that thel Martin County Board ofCommissioners strongly supports the creation and implementation of Martin Innovative Early College High School and its mission to provide high-quality, state oft the art education for students; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board ofCommissioners urges continued funding, resources, and community partnerships to ensure the continued success and growth of MIECHS, benefiting students, families, and the broader Martin County community. Adopted this day of, 20 Martin County Board of Commissioners Chairperson: Commissioners: Attest: Clerk to the Board 8. Resolution Acknowledging Weyerhaeuser Partnership and Significant Contributions to the Economic Viability of Martin County and Surrounding Areas The Chamber of Commerce submitted a resolution to be presented to the Board of Commissioners for approval in acknowledgement of the partnership between Martin County and Weyerhaeuser and the economic contributions to Martin County and surrounding areas. The resolution is as stated: Resolution Acknowledging Weyerhaeuser Partnership and Significant Contributions to the Economic Vitality of Martin County and Surrounding Areas WHEREAS, the "Plymouth Mill" as it is commonly known, originally founded in 1937 as the North Carolina Pulp Company, has played a pivotal role in the economic development of Martin County and surrounding areas; and 8 WHEREAS, the Plymouth Mill merged with Weyerhaeuser in 1957, becoming one of the largest and most advanced facilities in Weyerhaeuser's East Coast operations, producing a wide range of products including lumber, fine paper, pulp, fluff, and corrugated medium, as well as operating its own power plant; and WHEREAS, for many years, Weyerhaeuser was Martin County's largest employer, largest contributor to the tax base, and a significant force in the local economy, providing stable employment, competitive wages, and excellent benefits to the citizens of Martin County and the surrounding regions; and WHEREAS, in 2007, Weyerhaeuser merged with Domtar, continuing to operate the lumber mill at the Plymouth Mill site, maintaining its position as a leading employer and economic contributor in the area; and WHEREAS, Weyerhaeuser remains the world's largest private timberland owner and one of Martin County's largest private landowners, further solidifying its long-term commitment to the region; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board ofCommissioners hereby acknowledges and expresses sincere gratitude to Weyerhaeuser for its continued partnership and significant contributions to the economic vitality of Martin County and the surrounding areas. The Board recognizes Weyerhaeuser as a good corporate citizen whose longevity and positive impact have played an essential role in the community's growth and prosperity. ADOPTED this day of 20 by the Martin County Board of Commissioners. Joe R. Ayers, Chairman Julia S. Rease, Clerk to the Board 9. Resolution Authorizing Removal of Certain Public Record Books Kept by the Register of Deeds for the Purpose of Repair, Restoration, and Rebinding A resolution was received regarding the Register of Deeds Office. Some books within the Office are in need of repair and or preservation. The resolution stated which record books are being repaired, what company would make the restorations and repairs, and authorizes the Register of Deeds Office to transfer the care of the record books to the company performing the service until restorations are complete. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PUBLIC RECORD BOOKS KEPT BY THE REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPAIR, RESTORATION AND REBINDING WHEREAS, N.C. Gen. Stat. 132-7 provides that books of public records should be copied or repaired, renovated or rebound if worn, mutilated, damaged or difficult to read; and WHEREAS, there is identified certain books of public records maintained by the Register of Deeds in need of repair, restoration and rebinding; and WHEREAS, Kofile Inc. is under contract to provide repair, restoration and rebinding of those certain books of public records. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FOR MARTIN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, that: Section 1.The Register ofl Deeds is authorized to remove or cause to be removed to the care and custody of Kofile Inc. Document Preservation Specialists for repair, restoration and rebinding the following book of public records: Personal Property Books 101, 102, 110 & 172 Section 2. The book of public records listed in Section 1. ofthis resolution may remain in the care and custody of Kofile, Inc., Document Preservation Specialists for the length of time required to repair, restore or rebind it. Section 3. This resolution if effective upon its adoption. Adopted the of 2025. Chairman, Board of County Commissioners ATTEST Clerk to the Board 10. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Compliance Policy The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. The program is authorized under Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, Public Law 93-383, as amended 42 U.S.C. 5301 et seq. To ensure compliance with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, grantees must adhere to federal regulations, including demonstrating that activities benefit low- and moderate-income (LMI) persons or address urgent needs. A Compliance policy was compiled for the Community Development Block Grant to ensure that Martin County complies with program requirements and to adhere to the policy. The compliance policy was included in the Board agenda packet. 10 11. American Rescue Act Plan (ARPA) Compliance Policy President Biden signed the American Rescue Act Plan into law on March 11, 2021 to allocate around $1.9 trillion towards COVID-19 relief and economic recovery. North Carolina directly received more than $8 billion. The American Rescue Plan Act has regulations and laws set that grantees must utilize. A compliance policy was compiled to ensure that all laws and regulations are followed and the administration of funds is lawful. The compliance policy for the American Rescue Act Plan Funding was included in the Board agenda packet. 12. Town of Jamesville Request to Utilize Industrial Shredder The Governmental Center has an industrial shredder utilized by County employees. State Employees Credit Union hosts "Shred Day" events that provide shredding services to communities on a set scheduled date, at no charge. The SECU Williamston branch was not listed on the schedule to host a Shred Day this year. The Town of Jamesville asked for permission to shred multiple boxes of documents by utilizing the industrial shredder in the Governmental Center. 13. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Funding Administration Contract The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established on December 2, 1970 to consolidate in one agency a variety of federal research, monitoring, standard setting, and enforcement activities to ensure environmental protection. Martin County received funding to assist with wateri infrastructure projects that have to comply with guidelines and regulations from the EPA. McAdams & Associates President Emily Miller, if SO approved, will provide professional administrative and consulting services for environmental, funding application submittal, and finding administration. The administrative services to be provided, if SO approved, are as follows: 11 PROPOSAL TO FURNISH PROFESSIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE AND CONSULTING SERVICES MSA McAdams & Associates, LLC COUNTY OF MARTIN, NORTH CAROLINA This PROPOSAL made this 12th day of March, 2025 by and between the COUNTY OF MARTIN, NORTH CAROLINA, hereinafter called the OWNER and MCADAMS AND ASSOCIATES, LLC, hereinafter called the CONSULTANT. WHEREAS, the CONSULTANT intends to provide Professional Administrative and Consulting Services for environmental, funding application submittal, and funding administration, hereinafter called SERVICES, as requested by the Owner; and WHEREAS, the CONSULTANT agrees to provide orofessional services as described herein to assist the OWNER in completing the described SERVICES. NOW, THEREFORE, the OWNER and CONSULTANT, for the consideration hereinafter names, agree as follows: The CONSULTANT agrees to perform for the above named OWNER professional services as hereinafter set forth. The OWNER agrees to compensate the CONSULTANT for services hereinafter provided. The CONSULTANT's services shall include the following as requested by OWNER: 1. Funding Administration for a US Environmental Protection Agency State and Tribal Assistant Grant (EPA STAG) project for Water System Rehabilitation in Districts I and II. 2. Prepare / Present all documents to be approved, / adopted by the County Board of Commissioners. 3. Prepare NEPA Environmental Report according to EPA Guidelines. 4. Ensure compliance with federal US Environmental Protection Agency regulations and compliance. 5. Serve as liaison between the County and the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure all funding and is administered in accordance with Federal regulations. 6. Assistance with Procurement of Project Engineer and Construction Contractor. 7. Oversight of project schedule and milestones to include design, surveying, permitting, construction, and grant closeout. 8. Oversight of bidding construction contract to ensure compliance with Federal funding. 9. Review of all contractor pay requests and professional services invoices / preparation of grant reimbursement requisitions. 10. Administer Davis Bacon to include monthly onsite employee interviews during construction and review, / approval of weekly certified payrolls submitted by contractor(s). 11. Administrative costs, travel, and expenses. 12. Consulting via phone, email, and in person at locations in and outside of Martin County as requested by OWNER. 12 PAYMENT: the OWNER agrees to pay the CONSULTANT for SERVICES noted as follows. ADMINISTRATION: LUMP SUM of EIGHTY THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS ($85,925) @ 2.5% of grant secured payable with 20% of total fee upon approval and then equal monthly payments during project implementation, construction, and close out. GOVERNING LAW: This Agreement shall be governed in accordance with laws of the State of North Carolina. All actions relating in any ways in this Agreement shall be brought in the General Court of. Justice in Wake County, North Carolina. The OWNER and CONSULTANT hereby agree to the full performance of the covenants contained herein. IN WITNESS HEREOF, the CONSULTANT and OWNER have executed this Agreement, the day and the year first above written, which is the effective date of this Agreement. MCADAMS AND ASSOCIATES, LLC COUNTY OF MARTIN, NORTH CAROLINA By: domak 4 / By: Emily M. Millet President Joe R. Ayers, Chairman of the Board Date:, March 12, 2025 Signature: Date: March 12, 2025 ATTEST: (SEAL) 14. Needs -Based Public School Fund 2024-2025 Agreement - Moved to New Business as part of agenda approval. 15. Clerk Report PRESENTATIONS 1. Trillium Health Resources Update Bobbi Lowe, Northeast Regional Director Bobbi Lowe Trillium Health Resources Northern Regional Director presented an update from Trillium Health Resources. Northern Regional Director Lowe reported that Trillium Health Resources was not a service provider; but a health plan, assisting members in connecting with services offered through ac contracted local provider network, and reimburse providers for billable services to members. 46 counties received services from Trillium Health Resources as of to date. It was reported that members could access services by visiting a network provider or by calling Trillium for a referral to a local provider. The total population ofTrillium members was 3.1 million and ofthat population, there were 51,000 Tailored Plan Members, 163,000 Medicaid Direct Members, and 287,000 Uninsured Individuals. 13 Community Outreach and Local Connections Trillium Health Resources created five regions to assure local connections and within those regions, there were five Regional Advisory Boards with locally appointed representatives and five Consumer and Family Advisory Committees (CFAC). Trillium Health Resources also has a Governing Board with 10 members from the CFAC and Regional Board representatives, five Regional Vice Presidents, Community Engagement and Empowerment staff, and Community Liaisons. Trillium Health provides active stakeholder engagement and local participation in planning and service delivery collaborative. Commissioner Smith was acknowledged as the Martin County Commissioner Appointment and Northern Regional Director Lowe stated that there was a vacancy in which efforts have been made to fill the vacancy. Members Served as ofDecember. 2024 From July until December 2024, it was reported that Trillium Health Resources served 80,019 unique individuals with severe behavioral needs. Of that service population, 57,388 were mental health needs, 15,583 were substance abuse needs, and 18,537 were Intellectual / Developmental Disability (IDD) needs. Trillium Health Resources spent 5802,710,029.83 in services. Trilliums Health Resources Tailored Plans Northern Regional Director Lowe reported that Trillium Health Resources Tailored Plan launched on July 1, 2024 to offer integrated management of services for members, including behavioral and physical health needs along with pharmacy benefits and transportation. Northern Regional Director Lowe stated that observations were made and noted to address issues that have occurred with the implementation of the Tailored Plans Member and provider call volume increased significantly indicating a need for increased communication about the changes. Need for increased collaboration with transportation vendors to ensure member appointments were kept Need for extension of provider flexibilities to reduce disruption following launch Trillium's Health Resources Standard. Plans Northern Regional Director Lowe stated that most individuals, including those with mild to moderate behavioral health needs, were now managed under Standard Plans and have been since July 2021. The standard plans are listed as stated: Amerihealth Caritas NC Inc. Blue Cross Blue Shield ofl NC UnitedHealthcare ofl NC Inc. WellCare of NCI Inc. Carolina Complete Health (covers regions 3, 4, and 5) Medicaid Transformation - 2021 - Present Next, Northern Regional Director Lowe gave an overview of Medicaid Transformation that began in 2021. With the implementation of Medicaid Transformation, there was an establishment of 5 Standard Plans, Medicaid Direct, Establishment of Tailored Plans, and State funding. The phases in which these programs were implemented was included in a table that explained what each program implemented, provided: 14 Medicald Enrollment Options Phase 2( (Starts Phase 3 (Dec Phase 1 (July 2021) July 2024) 2024) Standard Plan EBCI Tribal Medicaid Behavioral Health Foster Care Option Direct IDD Tailored Plan Plan Standard Plans The Eastern Band of Medicaid Direct Behavioral Health Foster Care Plan will provide integrated Cherokee Indians provides Medicaid and I/DD Tailored Plans provide the same physical health, (EBCI) Tribal Option NCHC benefits will provide the same services as Standard behavioral health, is available to federally through fee-for service services as Standard Plans, as well as pharmacy, and long- recognized tribal (NCTracks), the Plans, as well as specialized care term services and members and their LME/MCOs additional specialized management services support to most families IHS eligible (behavioral services for individuals that aim to address Medicaid beneficiaries, beneficiaries for heath/SUD//DD and with significant mental many of the as well as programs primary care case TBI services) and health and substance challenges and services that management and will CCNC (primary care use disorders, I/DDs children/youth in the address other unmet be managed by the case management and traumatic brain child welfare system health related Cherokee Indian services for the injury (TBI Waiver), on face today in receiving resource needs. Hospital Authority Delayed, Excluded, the Innovations seamless, integrated (CIHA). and Exempt Waiver, as well as and coordinated health Populations. people using state- care. funded services. MCMDCNON MGDO CAE 46 County Medicaid Enrollment and Martin County Specific Medicaid Enrollment Data Northern Regional Director Lowe listed the amount of members in all 46 counties served by Trillium Health and the amount of individuals in Martin County that enrolled in Medicaid as of December 2024with the corresponding Tailor Plans: 46 Counties - Medicaid Enrollment Martin County Medicaid Enrollment Tailored Plan Number Enrolled Tailored Plan Number Enrolled Tailored Plan Trillium 80,984 (8%) Tailored Plan Trillium 704 (8%) Medicaid Direct 206,633 (20%) Medicaid Direct 2,261 (27%) Healthy Blue 210,015 (21%) Healthy Blue 2,112 (25%) United Healthcare 166,697 (16%) United Healthcare 1,622 (19%) WellCare 168,850 (16%) WellCare 825 (10%) AmeriHealth 126,815 (12%) AmeriHealth 805 (10%) Carolina Complete 63,520 (6%) Town Hall Responses In 2024, Trillium Health Resources reportedly held Town Halls that occurred in each of the 18 realigning consolidation counties to collect feedback and offer an opportunity for members to provide feedback and receive information. Multiple subjects emerged from the Town Halls, including requests for increased communication with providers and members/families, the need for streamlined processes, service expansion and requests for administrative flexibilities in how 15 providers offer services. Northern Regional Director Lowe listed the remedies to the observations made by the public. Some oft the remedies mentioned were listed as follows: Request for Proposals and Requests for Applications for identified services Provider Communication Bulletins directly addressing issues raised Revision of process, including for Finance and Provider Network Additional website postings Expansion of Transition of Care flexibilities Operations Team meetings with Consumer and Family Advisory Committee members Planning for our next round of Town Halls is underway with more information to be sent out soon Project Updates Northern District Director Lowe stated that Trillium Health Resources implemented different programs to provide services and assist members. Some of the programs were explained and program events were announced. a Substance Abuse Prevention in Schools - Trillium Health Resources were reportedly working with the Superintendent and the Martin County Community Coalition. Northern Regional Director Lowe announced that Trillium was planning to bring Post Center to the Middle school for a Drugs Uncovered program. This was a prevention program for adults that worked with children while the students attend a session in another room that explains how drugs affect the mind body, etc. There was another program announced for teens and their parents that would take place in April 2025 and would cover Social Media and Brain Development. . Naloxone Kits - Trillium Health Resources has continued this program to assist with overdoses. Mobile Clinic - Northern Regional Director Lowe stated that RHA Health Services operated the mobile clinic in Martin County four days of the month. It was stated that individuals could go to the mobile clinic to see a therapist, have access to medication management, and more. Other programs offered by Trillium Health Resources are as stated: Summits and Re-Entry Simulations CHESS Health Community Opportunity Centers Small Business Funding Empower Summer Camp Transition to Employment Program Northern Regional Director Lowe informed the Board of the overall total members served by Trillium Health Resources, which was noted to be unduplicated, since a single individual might receive services in more than one category. 16 Total Members Served - 712 Mental Health - 542 Substance Use - 124 I/DD - 129 Trillium Northern Regional Director asked if there were any questions. Vice Chairman Gurganus asked how Trillium Health Resources was funded. Northeast Regional Director Lowe responded that Trillium Health Resources received funding through multiple sources, but the entity was mainly funded by Medicaid and Trillium Health Resources managed Medicaid. Vice Chairman Gurganus asked if Trillium Health Resources received Medicaid reimbursement and Northern Regional Director Lowe agreed and stated that Trillium received the funding and when providers billed Trillium Health Resources, Trillium reimbursed the provider. Northern Regional Director added that Trillium received funding from the state called Single Strain, which is funded for those who do not have insurance coverage. There was funding received from the County that went towards programs, such as the programs mentioned earlier in the presentation. There were no further questions and Chairman Ayers thanked Northern Regional Director Lowe for the presentation. 2. McAdam and Associates Project Updates, McAdams & Associates Emily Miller Chairman Ayers stated that President Emily Miller ofMcAdams & Associates, LLC was attending the meeting make a presentation and President Miller was working with the county to assist with grants. President Emily Miller, McAdams & Associates, LLC, thanked the Board for the opportunity to present and stated that she would give updates on county projects. Funded Projects - Hamilton Rosenwald Roanoke River Center President Miller thanked Mayor Charlotte Griffin ofBear Grass for patience and continued support as they worked through some issues within the environmental process of the project. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Neighborhood Revitalization Grant awarded $550,000 towards the second phase of renovations, which was estimated to cost $998,347. President Miller stated that the environmental review and first phase ofESA were completed. A contract was awarded to ECS in April of 2024 and request for scoping comments were submitted to respective agencies in June 2024. President Miller reported there being a delay in this project due to comments from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). It was reported that the Ecological Sciences Division oft the Natural Resources Conservation Service worked with SHPO from August 2024 to February 2025 to attain approval to move forward. The Environmental Review would be sent to the Department of Commerce this week for concurrence to post a Finding of No Significant Impact and request 17 release of funds (30-45 days) depending on the timeliness of the review. President Miller stated that advertisement for construction bids were planned to be sent out by June 2025 and the funding may be awarded at the July Board meeting. Funded Proiects - Water System Asset Inventory and Assessment Study Next, President Miller provided an update on the Water System Asset Inventory and Assessment Study which was funded by two planning grants, one being from the Division of Environment Quality and the other from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Martin County received at total of$550,000 and Withers Ravenel and the Wooten Company were contracted to conduct the assessments. The assessments included field investigations, a hydraulic model, an asset management plan report, rate study, and asset management software. The engineering collected data on the water systems such as location of the water lines, sizes of the lines, maintenance needed/damages located, and more to prioritize and compile into different categories. The information that would be received from the study would also be used to tailor the scope for EPA funding, after pulling out funding for Automatic Meter Readers. Thus far, it was reported that the condition assessments were 70 percent complete and Withers Ravenel would have a preliminary report finalized by May 2025. President Miller stated that the information and reports received from the AIA study would determine priorities for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) final scope (in addition to Automatic Meter Readers for both Water Districts #1 & #2). The final completion of the AIA study was set for Fall of2025. Funded Projects - Water Distribution System Improvements - EPA STAG Grant McAdams & Associates President Miller stated that this funding was originally a congressional appropriation ofs $3,437,000 from Congressman G.K. Butterfields' Office. $859,250 in matching funds was reportedly waived in November 2024 by utilizing several factors, but mostly due to the comparison ofthe median household income to the state and national average. It was reported that Interim County Manager and McAdams & Associates President Miller worked with the EPA to get a technical correction to change the original scope. The funding was originally plan was to extend water lines several miles in the County from Water District II, but it was not cost effective. President Miller stated that the technical correction was submitted to change the scope for water distribution system improvements and automatic meter readers in Water Districts I and II. The revised scope was approved by EPA in December 2024. President Miller reported that of the $3.4 million, $1.2 million would be used towards the automatic meter readers and the remaining $2.2 million and the information and reports from the AIA study would be utilized towards improving water infrastructure of the areas listed to be in need ofimmediate care. Funded Proiects - Water Distribution System Improvements - Preliminary Scope Revision / Technical Correction) for EPA STAG Grant President Miller stated that the items listed below were included in a Division of Environmental Quality application that was submitted some years ago. These items did not score high enough to be funded. President Miller reported that the project items were the starting point of the technical correction and would be worked on first once approved. The water system expansion would occur first and then the water system improvements would be conducted. President Miller was optimistic 18 in WithersRavenel producing a report or enough data from the AIA studies by December 2025 to provide a list of priorities and cost estimates for those items. Water System Expansion Water System Improvements Close Loop from Hassell / Penco Well to Roy Bear Grass Main Rehab / Replacement Beach Road Extend Waterlines from Hassell Road to Hines Dual Check Valves to Bear Grass Town Limits Road Dual Check Valves to Oak City Services Upgrade Underground Vault (Thurman Griffin and Ed's Grocery Well) Automatic Meter Readers ($1.2M) Well Chlorination Upgrades McAdams& Associates President mentioned that the County had a contract with the consulting group to handle any, if all funding needs, project management, related services. President Miller stated that services were originally set up for department heads to go to the County Manager and Commissioners would reach out to her directly, then President Miller would work with the County Manager as project were given. President Miller stated that it would be advantageous to have a meeting with the department heads to ensure that there were no projects or opportunities they were interested in that could use assistance from McAdams & Associates, especially since it is in the annual contract. President Miller added that any opportunities, ideas, recommended projects received could be presented to the Board with a plan. Chairman Ayers and Vice Chairman Gurganus thanked McAdams & Associates President Emily Miller. OLD BUSINESS 1. Approval of Code of Ordinances Contract Last year, a contract for codification services was presented for renewal to continue the services and ensure that the public had access to the Code of Ordinances and any changes to those ordinances. It was asked if research could be conducted to find a company that could cut cost and provide services. The matter was tabled to allow staff to conduct research. Chairman Ayers stated that most counties hired a contractor to register, maintain, and post ordinances. Chairman Ayers stated that CivicPlus was the current provider and with the suggestion of Commissioner Taylor to conduct research another company, the Clerk to the Board found another company. It was also founded that previous company contracted was behind in updating and posting the ordinances. Chairman Ayers stated that the Clerk to the Board found that most of the Clerks in other counties and instructors suggested a company called American Legal Publishing. Chairman Ayers referred to Page 166 and 173 in the agenda packet. 19 Discussion: Commissioner Taylor commented on the Clerk to the Board and efforts into conducting research in finding a more suitable company. Commissioner Taylor made the Motion to Approve American Legal Publishing, with a Second by Vice Chairman Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). Chairman Ayers also made comments and thanked the Clerk to the Board for efforts in finding a better company. NEW BUSINESS 1. Approval ofCounty Attorney Contract Chairman Ayers stated that Interim County Manager / County Attorney Benjamin Eisner changed attorney firms as oflast week and with this change, a new contract with the new firm needed to be approved. Interim County Manager/County Attorney Eisner stated that the new attorney firm was Beaman & Bennington, PLLC. In addition, Interim County Manager stated that there was technically another agreement for bankruptcy representation that would also be approved. Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Attorney Contract with Beaman & Bennington, PLLC with a Second by Vice Chairman Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). All Board members thanked Interim County Manager/County Attorney Eisner for his services and hard work. 2. Audit Response to the Local Government Commission Chairman Ayers informed the Board and audience that this agenda item was a letter that was required to be submitted to the Local Government Commission in response to the financial audit report presented a previous meeting. Chairman Ayers noted that each Commissioner needed to sign the letter after the meeting. Chairman Ayers stated that the letter was to address three areas of concern. Chairman Ayers reported that Water Districts I & II were and had been "in the red" or a deficit since it began. The second concern was in regards to the Finance Office turning in the audit untimely, which Chairman Ayers stated that was not to the fault of the Finance Office as they had a complete turnover and the staff was new. The last area of concern was in regards to the Department of Social Services, wherein additional training was needed and addressed. 20 Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Audit Response to the Local Government Commission, with a Second by Vice Chairman Gurganus. Discussion: Commissioner Taylor added a comment that the Finance Department was doing a great job. Chairman Ayers agreed with the statement and assured that the Finance did not do anything wrong. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 3. Agent Destination Stand by Generator for EOC Building Public Works Director Justin Harrison explained that electrical upgrades were needed in the EOC building including turn keys, installation, and a new generator. The project would be funded 100 % by a grant and the work would be conducted by County staff. Commissioner Taylor made the Motion to Approve ofthe Agent Destination Grant, with a Second by Vice Chairman Gurganus. Discussion: Vice Chairman Gurganus commented and commended department heads that have been finding grants, bringing things to the County that added to the County that would not add costs to the County, and doing their jobs at the same time. Vice Chairman Gurganus asked that people thank staff and he was grateful for efforts made by staff. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 4. Martin County's Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool Program (ESFRLP) Response Interim County Manager Eisner reported that the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency monitored grants. The Essential Single Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool Program was monitored and there were some projects that the NC Housing Finance Agency wanted more information on and this required a response. McDavid and Associates was contracted to conduct services upon the laws and regulations ofthe ESFRLP Program were providing information regarding the projects the housing agency wanted more information on and were working on the response. Interim County Manager sought the approval of authority to sign the response when it was submitted to the County Managers Office from McDavid & Associates. Commissioner Smith stated that feedback received from clients whom received services from this program was positive Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve of the Martin County Essential Single- Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool Program (ESFRLP) Response, with a Second by Commissioner Bond Jr. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 5. Approval ofTax Foreclosure Attorney Contract Chairman Ayers reminded the Board and audience of the discussions in past meetings regarding tax revaluation that was statutorily required. 21 Interim County Manager Eisner stated that there was a contract in the agenda packet from Zacchaeus Legal Services ofTrenton, NC. The lead attorney at the law firm reportedly had decades focused on tax foreclosures on behalf of towns and county around the state. Interim Eisner stated that tax toreclosures were a specialized area in the law. Tax foreclosures on a countywide scale, called for special counsel. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the legal firm would, if approved, conduct services specifically for tax foreclosures and work in conjunction with the staff in the Tax Collector's Office, County Attorney, and Interim County Manager to identify a program or process ofhow the tax foreclosures would be handled by the law firm. Interim County Manager asked if there were any questions. Commissioner Bond Jr. asked to make a comment and stated that he was aware of what the County needed to do and was trying to do, but he received cancers regarding the law firm from residents of Williamston. Commissioner Bond Jr. explained that the Town of Williamston contracted with Zacchaeus as well to conduct tax foreclosures. In addition, Commissioner Bond Jr. was concerned about the revaluation occurring at the same time as the tax foreclosures and the effect on residents. Commissioner Bond Jr. stated that he was not against collecting back taxes as it needed to be done, but it was the wrong time to start the process. It was also a concern that the Tax Assessor's may become overwhelmed as the office had a complete turnover and new staff. Commissioner Bond Jr. asked ift the agenda item could be tabled until some one looked into the concerns that residents of Williamston had with the law firm. Chairman Ayers stated that the tax foreclosures had nothing to do with the tax rate and the concerns mentioned by Commissioner Bond Jr. should've been addressed a long time ago. Chairman Ayers asked ifit was known that the back taxes owed to Martin County was over $ 2 million. Commissioner Bond Jr. was aware and stated that in a few weeks, the county would be advertising the back taxes in the newspaper. Commissioner Bond Jr. added that he was looking at the matter from the people's standpoint. It was added that there were a lot ofpeople in Williamston that rented property and the people that owned the property were trying to pay the taxes, but at the same time if they were paying more property taxes, they would have to raise the rent on the properties and people can not afford it. Commissioner Smith stated that he wanted to make a comment and stated that he was all for collecting back taxes. Commissioner Smith stated that in speaking with the lead attorney of the firm, he asked about the process in which the firm would use as Commissioner Smith wanted the process to be fair. Commissioner Smith stated that in his experience, law firms handling tax foreclosures cherry picked properties that would give the law firm the most money. Commissioner Smith wanted a guarantee that the process in handling the tax foreclosures was going to be fair. Commissioner Taylor stated that in the conversation between the Board and the law firm, it was stated that a guideline would be set in how the foreclosures would be handled and that it was the county's duty to send out letters to try to get things worked out. Commissioner Taylor added that if arrangements were made with the Tax Collectors' Office, that or those properties would not be forwarded to the law firm. 22 Interim County Manager stated that the Tax Collector's Office had to bring files to the law firm and part of that was to develop a system or process of how to actually handle the foreclosures. It was added that when a referral was made to the law firm, the county had to step back. Interim County Manager Eisner reminded the Board of the Town of Williamston whom were already conducting tax foreclosures. In their process, Martin County is not participating as a plaintiff SO the Town of Williamston files a lawsuit and Martin County is the defendant. The Board and Interim County Manager continued the discussion regarding the fairness of the foreclosure process until a motion was made. Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve ofthe Tax Foreclosure Attorney Contract, with a Second by Commissioner Taylor. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Ayes: Chairman Joe R. Ayers, Vice Chairman David "Skip" Gurganus, and Commissioner Jeremiah Taylor Nays: Commissioner Dempsey Bond Jr. and Commissioner Ronnie Smith Commissioner Smith stated that he had no issues with hiring Zacchaeus Law Firm, but felt that a particular process in handling foreclosures needed to be in place already and that the process should be including in the contract. 6. Approval ofI Lobbyist Contract Chairman Ayers reported that the proposed lobbyist contract was with a company called Electus Governing Affairs, which was not in the agenda packet, but was given out before the meeting. Elexus Governing Affairs was reported to be a lobbyist group that traveled to places such as Washington, D.C. and Raleigh, N.C. to lobby for funding from the legislatures. The lobbyist group would assist the County with projects such as healthcare and water infrastructure, that require or may need legislative or congressional resources. Chairman Ayers stated that he met with Vice Chairman Gurganus, Finance Officer Angela Raynor, Economic Development Corporation Director Steve Biggs, and Town of Williamston Mayor Dean McCall, and representatives from Electus Governing Affairs. Chairman Ayers added that Interim County Manager/County Attorney Eisner could not attend. Chairman Ayers stated that the lobbyist group was a three-member team, with the lead lobbyist having 37 years of experience. There was a lobbyist on the Electus Team that had experience specifically in Washington, D.C. The retainer fee was reportedly $3,000.00 a month, $36,000.00 a year, and the contract was for a year. Chairman Ayers stated that this contract price was about half of the cost of previously reviewed lobbyist contracts. It was Chairman Ayers suggestion to approve ofthe contract to hire Electus Governing Affairs and it was stated that the County attempted to hire a lobbyist group a couple of years ago, but it did not come to fruition. Chairman Ayers stated that surrounding counties had received funding for their projects and some received millions of dollars by hiring a lobbyist, but Martin County was being left out. 23 Commissioner Bond Jr. asked to speak and stated that Chairman Ayers mentioned the names of people who attended a meeting with the lobbyist group, but he did not know anything about the meeting. Commissioner Bond Jr. asked why weren't the lobbyist groups asked to present at a Board meeting. Chairman Ayers stated that there could only be two Commissioners at the initial meeting, the state legislatures were in session, and they were already late in the game, and time was ofthe essence. Commissioner Smith asked to speak. Commissioner Smith stated that he understood that Chairman Ayers said that the Interim County Manager was not able to attend the meeting. Commissioner Smith also stated that it was his understanding that there were other lobbyist groups that were interested in providing services for the County. Commissioner Smith stated that he thought that Electus Governing Affairs was a great group, but this was the first time he saw the contract. It was stated that there was adequate time to for the entire Board to review the contract and reiterated that there were several other lobbyist groups that wanted to provide services and asked Interim County Manager Eisner if this was true. Interim County Manager agreed and stated that there had been lobbyist groups interested in providing services since November 2024. Commissioner Ayers reiterated that time was of the essence. Commissioner Smith stated that lobbyist groups were a dime a dozen Vice Chairman Gurganus stated that he understood where Commissioner Smith was coming from as he had been in the same position for the last few years. Vice Chairman Gurganus began to speak about previous efforts that occurred and that they did not come to fruition. Vice Chairman Gurganus stated that the company was qualified and needed to be hired. The discussion amongst the Board continued until a motion was made. Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve of the Lobbyist Contract with Electus Governing Affairs, with a Second by Commissioner Taylor. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Ayes: Chairman Joe R. Ayers, Commissioner Gurganus, and Commissioner Jeremiah Taylor Nays: Commissioner Dempsey Bond Jr. and Commissioner Ronnie Smith 7. Needs -Based Public School Fund 2024-2025 Agreement Chairman Ayers stated that the agreement was in regards to Martin County Schools receiving $62 million to build a new school and the agreement was presented to him for his signature. Chairman Ayers reported that he wanted to present the agreement to the Board for consideration. Chairman Ayers reported that Martin County did not have the funds to assist if the project listed in the agreement went over budget. The agreement reportedly stated that the local matching was zero 24 dollars, but Chairman Ayers noted that the agreement stated statutes that would hold the County accountable ifthe new school project was over budget. Commissioner Bond Jr. stated that there was something mentioned about the early college in the agenda packet and was referring to the Resolution in Support ofMartin County Early College High School. Commissioner Bond Jr. stated that an early college was a separate school from regular high school and if Martin County wanted to keep the early college at the Innovation Campus, special funds were needed to support it. Commissioner Bond Jr. stated that there couldn't be an early college in the same building as the high school and referenced Bertie County Schools. Commissioner Bond Jr. asked if this agenda item was to build a new high school or maintain an early college in a separate place. Commissioner Gurganus reported attending the Martin County Schools Superintendents' State of the Schools Address and the Superintendent stated that Martin Community College and Public School System was a joint venture because the State Board of Education and the State Board of Colleges blessed it SO. Commissioner Gurganus added that the last approval had to come from the Raleigh. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the agreement was specifically outlining the collaboration between the School Board and Martin County and how the funding would be allocated. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that the agreement was a certification that the local matching funds would derive from non-state, non-federal funds. County Attorney Eisner stated that he interpreted this as, if there were matching funds, where would they come from in the case of the County. County Attorney Eisner reported that the County asked ifthere was ai match several times and it was confirmed that there were zero matching funds. It was reported that ifthe project went over budget, the County would have to find out where those funds would come from. County Attorney Eisner stated that the agreement solidified reporting requests and distributions. County Attorney Eisner, retired Finance Officer Cindy Ange, the current Finance Officer Angela Raynor, Martin County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle White, Martin County Schools Finance Officer had a meeting to make sure that all obligations were clear from a financial standpoint. Commissioner Smith asked to make a statement. Commissioner Smith stated that Martin County Schools Superintendent Dr. White assured the Board that there would be no matching funds. Commissioner Smith was concerned about the cost of construction supplies increasing and referenced Washington County receiving the same grant to build a school and some amenities such as a sports field were not constructed due to an overage in cost. Commissioner Smith did not agree with letting this opportunity go, but the finance offices between both entities needed to work together. Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve ofthe Needs - Based Public School Fund 2024- 2025 Agreement, with a Second by Commissioner Bond Jr. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 25 8. Budget Amendments Budget Amendment #25 and #26 Budget Amendments #25 and #26 appropriate $17,150 for the repayment of 2017 ESFRL-DR disaster recovery funds. The NC Housing Finance Agency is requesting reimbursement from the County due to homeowners withdrawing from the program thereby disqualifying the County as a recipient of State funds. This budget amendment was tabled February 12, 2025. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-+25 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, 2025. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows: Increase Decrease Transfer to Fund 36 $17,150 This will result in an increase of$17,150 in the expenditures ofthe General Fund. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Fund Balance Appropriation $17,150 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve Budget Amendments #25 and Seconded by Commissioner Taylor to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Transfer to CDBG 1198000-598360 $17,150 Fund Balance Appropriation 1100090-499099 $17,150 BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#26 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend Fund 36, the expenditures are to be changed as follows: Increase Decrease Fund 36-Administration $17,150 26 This will result in an increase of $17,500 in the expenditures Fund 36. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Transfer from Fund 11 $17,150 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Approve Budget Amendments #26 and Seconded by Commissioner T'aylor to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Transfer from General Fund 3600070-498011 $17,150 2017 CDBG-DR 3649316-591100 $17,150 Budget Amendment #28 and #29 To amend the budget of $510,000 for the hospital renovation. This budget amendment allows the movement of funds to the more appropriate account Hospital Building -Capital Outlay from the Commissioners budget (Consulting Services) and allows the Finance Officer to move the funds from the Hospital Fund. A discussion occurred amongst Board members until there was an understanding that the hospital funding would be moved into one separate account. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-+28 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease Consulting Srv -Hospital $510,000 Hospital-Capital Outlay $510,000 This will result in a decrease of $0 in the expenditures of the General Fund-County Commissioners. To provide for the $0 decrease in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Fund Balance Appropriation $510,000 Transfer from Hospital Fund $510,000 27 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Motion by Vice Chair Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Smith to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Consulting Srv-Hospital 1141100-519903 $510,000 Fund Balance Appropriation 1100090-499099 $510,000 Hospital-Capital Outlay 1142770-558000 $510,000 Transfer from Hospital Fund 1100070-498072 $510,000 BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#29 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the Hospital Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease Hospital Trust Fund-Transfer to GF $510,000 This will result in an increase of $510,000 in the expenditures of the Hospital Fund. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be change Hospital Fund-Fund Balance Appro. $ 510,000 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Motion by Commissioner Smith and seconded by Vice Chairman Gurganus to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Hospital-Transfer to GF 7298000-598011 $510,000 Hospital Fund Balance 7200090-499099 $510,000 28 Budget Amendment #30 Martin County will use the North Carolina State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) funds to migrate our domain name from a .com to a. -gov domain naming structure to validate that we are a genuine U.S.-based government or public sector organization. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#3O BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the General Fund-Data Processing, the expenditures are to be changed as follows: Increase Decrease Cybersecurity Grant $25,400 This will result in an increase of $25,400 in the expenditures of the General Fund-Data Processing. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Cybersecurity Grant $25,400 Section 2. Copies ofthis budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Motion by Commissioner Bond Jr. and Seconded by Commissioner Taylor to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Cybersecurity Grant 1142100-549968 $25,400 Cybersecurity Grant 1100025-442100 $25,400 Budget Amendment #31 and #32 To amend the Department of Aging budget to reflect the actual revenues and expenditures for the SHIPP and SMP grants. These grants will fund a much needed event by partnering with NC MedAssist to provide the citizens of Martin County with a Mobile Pharmacy and low income citizens free over-the-counter medicine. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#31 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. 29 Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows: Increase Decrease Department of Aging-SMP Grant $16,800 This will result in an increase of$16,800 in the expenditures ofthe General Fund- Department of Aging. To provide for the change in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Restricted Intergov-SMP Grant $16,800 Section 2. Copies ofthis budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Motion by Vice Chairman Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Bond Jr. to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day ofMarch 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Restricted Intergov-SMP Grant. 1100025- 455572 $16,800 Department of Aging-SMP Grant 1158610-549122 $16,800 BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#32 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows: Increase Decrease Department of Aging-SHIIP Grant $ 1944 This will result in a decrease of$1,944 in the expenditures ofthe General Fund-Department of Aging. To provide for the change in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Restricted Intergov-SHIIP Grant $144 Fund Balance Appropriation $1800 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. 30 Motion by Vice Chairman Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Bond Jr. to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease Restricted Intergov-SHIIP Grant. 1100025- 455120 $144 Department of Aging-SHIIP Grant 1158610-549125 $1,944 Fund Balance Appropriation 1100090-499099 $1,800 Budget Amendment #33 Martin County has partnered with Electus Governmental Affairs to work with policymakers to influence, promote and advocate for legislation that will support the interests and welfare for the citizens ofMartin County. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#33 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board ofCommissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinançce for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease County Commissioners $12,000 This will result in an increase of$12,000 in the expenditures of the General Fund-County Commissioners. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Fund Balance Appropriation $12,000 Section 2. Copies ofthis budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Vice Çhair Gurganus made the Motion with a Second by Commissioner Taylor to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried (3-2). Ayes: Chairman Joe R. Ayers, Vice Chair David "Skip" Gurganus, and Commissioner Jeremiah Taylor Nays: Commissioner Dempsey Bond Jr. and Commissioner Ronnie Smith 31 For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease County Commissioners 1141100 559750 $12,000 Fund Balance 1100090 499099 $12,000 Budget Amendment #34 This budget amendment is to purchase a CAD backup server for Communications. It serves to consolidate and share data from the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to multiple clients (users) within the department. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-#34 BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of Martin County, North Carolina, that the following amendments be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Section 1. To amend the E-911 Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease E-911 Capital Outlay $8,525 This will result in an increase of$8,525 in the expenditures ofthe E-911 Fund. To provide an increase in revenue for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Fund Balance Appropriation $8,525 Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Governing Board and to the Finance Officer for their direction. Motion by Vice Chairman Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Bond Jr. to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 12th day of March 2025. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For Your Information Account Name Account Number Increase Decrease E-911 Capital Outlay 1343260-552500 $8,525 Fund Balance Appropriation 1300090-499099 $8,525 CLOSED SESSION(S) At: 8:45 p.m., Commissioner Taylor made the Motion to Enter Closed Session(s) 1.N.C.G.S. S 143-318.11. (6)(a) Personnel, with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried by raise ofh hands (5-0). 32 At: 9:30 p.m. Vice Chairman Gurganus made the Motion to Exit Closed Session(s) 1. N.C.G.S. $ 143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel, with a Second by Commissioner Bond Jr. The Motion was Carried by raise of hands (5-0). OPEN SESSION Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement - February 2025 Each month, Interim County Manager Benjamin Eisner prescnts a monthly financial statement to the Board for review and approval. The financial statement was reportedly pre audited by the Finance Office and Human Resources. The financial statement for the month of February 2025 is as stated: Hours of Work: $2,606.50 Mileage + 309.16 Total: $2,915.66 Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve of the Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement for the Month ofFebruary 2025, with a Second by Vice Chairman Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously by raise ofhands (5-0). BOARD REPORTS/COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS Adjournment: At: 9:32 p.m. Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Adjourn, with a Second by Commissioner Taylor. The Motion was Carried unanimously by raise ofhands (5-0). - ot Rers Joe K. Ayers, Chairman Martin County Boayd of Commissioners farka Bboe Julia S. Rease Clerk to the Board