May 8, 2024 The Martin County Board of Commissioners met in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, May gth, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Superior Courtroom at the Martin County Governmental Center, 305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina. ASSEMBLY Present in the Boardroom: Chairman Dempsey Bond, Jr., Vice Chair Emily Biggs, Commissioner Joe. R. Ayers, Commissioner Ronnie Smith, Commissioner David "Skip" Gurganus, Interim County Manager/ County Attorney Benjamin R. Eisner, Clerk to the Board Julia Rease and Finance Officer Cindy Ange. Other Present in the boardroom: Mayor of Bear Grass Charlotte Griffin, Mayor of Robersonville Tina Brown, Councilman ofHamilton Larry Jackson, SheriffTim Manning, and more. Chairman Bond Jr. called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Vice Chair Biggs led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Gurganus provided the invocation. Chairman Bond Jr. welcomed all in attendance AGENDA Approval Chairman Bond Jr. talked about the revised agenda and it was asked to remove the Juvenile Justice Lease Agreement and Item #11 under the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve the revised agenda with the stated addition, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). PUBLIC COMMENTS 1. Mr. Martha MacDonald - "Good evening. Another meaning, no Commissioners expenditures on the agenda, no updated travel policy, no workshop or conference report. Why the delay? Obviously, this board is fractured, when simple citizen requests cannot be honored. I would go as far as saying it's pretty splintered. Case in point, the hiring of the County Manager. By all reports, including the interview reported on in our local paper. There have been several qualified advocate. Eight months, no action by the board, and still no County Manager. A broken board that can't or won't work together. Still no answers about unexplained raises. Questions of who authorized and where is the documentation echoed not only by the citizens, but also by the auditor during the recent audit report. Does anyone want to share the truth? Because of this action, or rather, the lack of action by three board members, There're many things that this county does not have. No hospital, no County Manager, no working leadership, no new industry, no growth. Who would want to live here with this up here? No transparency, no answers. There's a few things our county does have now, we have new EMS procedures without a paramedic in the county. We have distrust of any action this board may try to initiate. We have a lack of trust in local leadership to be good stewards of tax dollars, properties, law, and everyday oversight of the government in Martin County. It's time for you three to man up and to treat the citizens that elected you with the respect and the dignity that they deserve. Maya Angelo wrote: do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. Y'all know better, but you certainly are not doing better. Simply put, if you can't play honestly and nice, it is time for y'all to pick up your toys and to go home. Because the street lights have come on and they're beginning to shine brightly. Thank you. Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mrs. MacDonald and called for the next public comment. 2. Mr. Heber Coltrain "Tonight, I have a question for our Board. Prior to the closed meeting, when our former Chairman surprisingly introduced a, Mr. James Bennett, which Commissioners already knew that Bennett was going to appear at that meeting and be voted on? Two of our Commissioners have stated that prior to that meeting, they had never even heard of Bennett. So should we assume that prior to that meeting our former Chairman had kept Bennett a secret from the entire board. That might be believable if not for the fact that, in addition to our former Chairman, two other Commissioners voted that meeting to hire Bennett. Did they already know Bennett? Were they well aware that Bennett was going to be at the meeting? Did they feel no responsibility to give Gurganus and Ayers the opportunity to do their own research on Bennett before. his being hired. I believe that what took place was a carefully planned conspiracy. I believe that our former Chairman, who some citizens are now referring to as the head of the snake, carefully planned this conspiracy and carried out his dirty deed with the help of his two coconspirators. I can't envision any industry, health care provider, or anyone else in their right mind wanting to become involved with our county as long as we have conspirators on our Board. Therefore, I'm asking you three to resign immediately. Resign for our senior citizens who are concerned about their health care. Resign for our taxpayers who don't trust you. Resign for our young people who dream of finding work and continue their lives here. Resign, and let us pick up the pieces and move on in a productive, in a progressive way. Thank you, Chairman Bond Jr. thanked Mr. Coltrain and there were no further public comments. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Smith made the Motion to Approve the Consent Agenda as stated, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0). 1. Minutes - November 8, 2023 Regular, November 16, 2023 Special, January 10, 2024 Regular - (Tabled From Previous Meeting) 2. Financial Report - April 2024 3. Tax Assessor - Tax Refund Request = April 2024- None 4. Tax Assessor - Tax Relief Orders - April 2024 Year Lname Fname Reason Value Total Levy 2023 Baptist Church Cedar Hill BOER Approved 0.00 $14,488.50 2023 OfChrist Hamilton Church Appeal Approved 243,880 $5,053.84 2023 Manning Phillip Evan Clerk Error 0.00 $113.34 2023 Church Maple Grove Christian BOER Approved 0.00 $1,726.96 2023 Snyder Dylan Alexander Sold Vehicle 0.00 $7.43 2023 Williamston Town of Error in Listing 0.00 $372.68 2023 Winslow William Henry BOCC Compromise 0.00 $25,457.10 Total Real & Personal Releases $47,189.85 2024 Harrell Winsor Earl BOCC Approved $ 157.50 $37.75 2024 OfChrist Promise Land Church BOCC Approved $18.65 $ 18.65 Total VTS Refund Requests $56.40 Total Tax Relief Orders $47, 246.25 5. Tax Collector's Report = April 2024 Category 21-April April-21 Y-T-D Real Property 20 $25,090.21 $ 158,949.60 Personal Property 25 $3.371.99 $39.776.48 Total $ 28.462.20 $ 198,726.08 Motor Vehicle 30 $0.00 0.00 Total MV $28, 462.20 $198,726.08 All Total $28,462.20 $198,726.08 6. Board Appointments/Reappointments a.Tourism Development Authority (TDA) The Tourism Development Authority (TDA) had a meeting on April 5, 2024, wherein Mr. Rakesh Patel of Quality Inn in Williamston and Dr. Tabitha Miller of Martin Community College were recommended for reappointment to the TDA Board. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 7. Tax Assessor's Office - Compromises (2) The Tax Assessor's Office received two cases were property owners requested a compromise regarding their property taxes. Parcel # 0503974 Fellowship Baptist Church is asking for a compromise on the discovery tax bill in the amount of $2,525.19. By approving this compromise, The Board would be releasing the entire discovery bill. This item was Approved as part oft the Consent Agenda. Parcel # 0900989 Hamilton Church ofChrist requested a compromise on the penalty on the tax bill in the amount of$184.13. By approving this compromise, the Board would be releasing just the penalty on the bill. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 8. Tax Collectors Report of Total Unpaid Taxes and Request for Advertisement Tax Collector Kimberly reported that the total unpaid amount of 2023-24 taxes that were liens on real property. The Total of unpaid 2023-24 taxes that were liens on real property as of January 31, 2024: $2,295,600.98 The Tax Collector's Office also requested that all unpaid property taxes be advertised in the Enterprise Newspaper on April 11, 2024 or as soon as is possible thereafter according to G.S. 105-369 oft the Machinery Act ofNorth Carolina. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 9. Tax Collector's Office - Taxpayer Remedy It was brought to the attention ofthe Tax Collectors Office, that the Tax Assessor's Office had parcel # 0700173 listed to the owner of parcel #0700425 and vice versa. The Tax Assessors Office reportedly corrected the ownership. With this change, The Tax Collectors Office would need to move the payments to the correct parcels. Tax Collector Kim Ross emailed the School ofGovernment about this situation and it was recommended that the Office move all payments on parcel #0700173 to parcel #0700425 and vice versa under the 105-381 general statute, but for this remedy to only be applied to the years in question, not to exceed 5 years. Tax Collector Kim Ross requested the Boards approval to proceed on moving those payments to the correct parcels. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 9. Public Capital School Fund - Riverside Middle School N.C.G.S. Chapter 18C provides that a portion oft the NC's lottery proceeds are allocated to each county within the Public School Building Capital Fund (PSBCF) based on average daily membership (ADM) in accordance with N CG. S. 1 15C-546.2. The Public School Building Capital Fund is housed in the N.C. Department of Public Instruction and is comprised of two sources oft revenue: a set-aside from the corporate income tax, known as the ADM fund, whid1 was allotted based on average daily membership (ADM) in each county; and a percentage of the net proceeds from the N.C. Education lottery. Monies in the Fund are used to pay: for public school construction projects and to retire indebtedness incurred for school construction projects. PSBCF also may contain some residual corporate income tax distributions. The submitted application requested funds from lottery proceeds to assist in making the debt and interest payment on Riverside Middle School. Approximately $15 million was used to build Riverside Middle school in 2013. The annual debt payment is approximately $1 million. $264,000 is included in the PSBCF request for the debt payment. The remainder, $16,447, is for one-halfofthe interest we are required to pay due to the federal government sequestration. A County board and school board must jointly apply to the NC Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) on aj project-by-project basis to access the monies in the Fund. The Martin County Board of Education approved the request at its April meeting. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 10. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Lease Agreement A lease for the USDA-FSA (Farm Service Agency) Services Center at 104 Kehukee Park Road Williamston is presented to the Board for approval at the end of every lease to provide office space. The government will pay the lessor annual rent of $57,264.00, payable at the rate of $4,772.00 per month (representing $12.00 per square foot for 4,772 rentable square feet of office space) in arrears. The lease would be effective January 1, 2024 and shall continue through December 31, 2028. This item was Approved as part ofthe Consent Agenda. 11. Department of Public Safety (DPS) Juvenile Justice Lease Agreement In North Carolina, if a youth is 15 years old or younger and commits a crime, his or her case will be brought to the attention of staff within the Juvenile Justice section of the N.C. Department ofPublic Safety, Division of Adult Correction and Juvenile Justice. The division focuses on juvenile justice issues and at-risk youth in the state. Thousands ofyouth encounter North Camolinasjpwemnilejpustice system through interaction withtheJuvenile Justice Section's Juvenile Crime Prevention Council services, community programs, juvenile court services and juvenile commitment facilities. The Juvenile Justice Section is committed to the reduction and prevention ofjuvenile delinquency by effectively intervening, educating and treating youth in order to strengthen families and increase public safety. Juvenile Justice goals include: Fostering communities that are safe from juvenile crime. Collaborating with judges, district attorneys, juvenile defense attorneys, law enforcement agencies, schools and other youth service providers to determine and provide the right program for each youth. Providing safe and secure housing for youth in care and to provide programming that teaches pro-social skills. Providing accurate assessment and effective treatment and education of youth. Preventing youth from initial or further involvement in the juvenile justice system through partnerships with local governments and communities. To fulfill its juvenile justice function, the Juvenile Justice section provides a full continuum of public safety interventions involving all children and youth ages 6-15 alleged to or have been found to have committed an ldisciplined or criminal offense; in cases where youth are placed under court jurisdiction before their 16th birthday and youth require further interventions under the Juvenile Code (Chapter 7B), they may remain under juvenile justice court supervision up until their 21st birthday. DPS also serves 16 and 17-year-old youth with undisciplined complaints. The NC Department of Public Safety - Juvenile Justice has been utilizing space in the Martin County Governmental Center for a number of years without a lease agreement. NC General Statute $ 7A-302 requires counties to provide space to Juvenile Justice, including furniture. Court facility fees provided through the Clerk of Superior Court help subsidize some of this cost to the County. The lease has a three-year term and runs from May 8, 2024 - April 8, 2027. The lease payment is $1.00. This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda. 12. Approval of the 2024 Ambulance Franchises Listed below are the four (4) ambulance franchise agencies seeking renewal in Martin County. Each of the agencies listed below currently operate in our county. Each is in good standing with North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services. Each of those listed have been approved by our County Ambulance Advisory Board along with the medical director. There have been no complaints or issues regarding any of these agencies filed with our office. The agencies seeking renewal are: Coastal Medical Transport Inner Banks Medical Transport Roanoke Medical Transport White Oak Medical Transport This item was Approved as part of the Consent Agenda 12. Clerk Report included for informational purposes. INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEE(S) 1. Robert Whitaker - Water Systems Director 2. Michael Davis - Deputy Sheriff Office 3. Vera Perry - Finance Tech - Finance Dept 4. Cristian Puga - Water Tech - Water Dept 5. Logan Faella - Water Tech - Water Dept 6. Victoria Phelps = Social Worker III - DSS The Board of Commissioners thanked and welcomed the new employees RESENTATIONS 1. Acknowledgement of the Martin County 250th Anniversary Volunteers Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Director Chase Conner Tourism Development Authority Director (TDA) Chase Conner stated his appreciation to the County and the TDA for the support given to help make the Martin County 250th Anniversary kick off weekend a success. TDA Director Conner reminded the Board and audience that the 250th Anniversary ofthe County would be a yearlong event. TDA Director discussed the Martin County 250th kick off events which were an Anniversary Dinner; a pop up festival at Moratoc Park with a band, historical artifacts and exhibits derived from Martin County; a parade with schools, bands, and choirs, and representatives from each town within Martin County; and more. It was reported that around 1,500 people participated in the pop up festival with 60 volunteers from the County that came together to make these events happen. TDA Director Conner asked of those volunteers to stand to be recognized as he expressed his appreciation in all efforts made to make a successful event in a short time period. Next TDA Director Chase Conner talked about America's 250th Celebration and mentioned the fact that Martin County was established before America. It was reported that America's 250th Anniversary would be the committees next focus. TDA Director Conner reiterated his appreciation to the County and stated that he was looking forward to continue efforts to promote and make the County better. PUBLIC HEARING(S) 1.Martin County - 2018 CDBG-NR Program = Project Engineer Mike Barnette Jr. McDavid & Associates The Community Development Block Grant Neighborhood Revitalization Program (CDBG-NR) will offer a non entitlement municipality or county the opportunity to tailor a project to meet the community development needs specific and most critical to their locality. The CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Program incorporates several previous Rural Economic Development Division (REDD) Community Block Grant (CDBG) programs and activities such as Scattered Site Housing and Supportive Housing. In response to the end oft the County's 2018 CDBG-NR program, a public hearing was needed to be conducted. Mr. Mike Barnette, McDavid & Associates Inc, conducted timely advertisements via newspaper and attended the meeting to conduct the public hearing. Notice of Public Hearing Martin County 2018 CDBG-NR Closeout On May 8, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Commissioner's Room of the County Courthouse, the Martin County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on closeout of the 2018 CDBG-NR program. The program demolished and reconstructed homes at 2680 Cannon Road, Hobgood, NC, 1587 Ross Road, Robersonville, NC, and 1351 North Main Street, Robersonville, NC. The public is welcome to attend, and the County will respond to any written comments within 10 calendar days. This program was funded with approximately $590,000 of CDBG-NR funds which represented 100% of the total program funding. Persons with disabilities or who otherwise need assistance should contact the person listed below at least one day in advance of the hearing. Accommodation will be made for all who request assistance with participating in the public hearing. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact the individual listed below to accommodate this request. Esta informacion esto disponible en espanol o en cualquier otro idioma a peticion. Pongase en contacto con el individuo enumerado a continuacion para dar cabida a esta solicitud. Benbsner, Interim County Manager Martin County PO Box 668, /305 E. Main Street Williomston, NC. 27892 (252) 789-4300 At: 7:19 p.m. Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Enter Public Hearing: Martin County - 2018 CDBG-NR Program, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). There were no public hearing comments At: 7:20 p.m. Commissioner Biggs made the Motion to Enter Public Hearing: Martin County - 2018 CDBG-NR Program, with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 2. Martin County CDBD-CV Program for Public Services-2020 CDBG-CV- Martin County Community Service Hub & Martin Community Health Department Projects - The Wooten Company Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Table Public Hearing(s) #2 and # 3, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 3. Martin County CDBD-CV Program for Public Services-2020 CDBG-CV- Martin County Community Service Hub - The Wooten Company Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Table Public Hearing(s) #2 and # 3, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). OLD BUSINESS 1. Commisionera/County Manager's Budget Interim County Manager Eisner stated that he would discuss this agenda item and the next agenda item (#2 Budget Meeting Schedule Update) together and gave an overview of all efforts made towards the County budget process thus far. Interim County Manager Eisner reported the he and Finance would worked together on the County Manager's portion ofthe budget and present it on Tuesday, May 28th and the County Budget to be presented on June 12th Regular Board Meeting. Interim County Manager Eisner asked if there were any schedule conflicts. Board members and staff discussed their schedules for any conflicts and it was agreed that the County Manager budget would be presented on May 28th at 6:00 p.m. in a Special Meeting and the Commissioners Budget would be discussed at the June 12th Regular Board meeting at 7:00 p.m. No motions, information purposes only. 2. Budget Meeting Schedule Update Discussed with Agenda Item # 1 under Old Business Commissioners County Manager's Budget. No action taken. NEW BUSINESS 1. NCDOT Curve Warning Signs Commissioner Ayers reported on a series curve signs, at least 5-7 in a row, which were being plaçed in several areas in Martin County and were reportedly very close to the asphalt. Commissioner Ayers reported that in one area, he measured the signs being 3 feet away from the asphalt. Commissioner Ayers stated receiving many calls, especially in regards to big tractors, tractor-trailers, or wide farming equipment attempting to negotiate the roads to prevent an accident with other vehicles or the signs. There was an understanding of why the curve signs were being placed in certain areas, but the signs reportedly created more ofa safety issue. Commissioner Ayers gave an example of curve signs being placed too close to the road on Highway 111 going towards Tarboro, wherein tractor-trailers, wide equipment, and farming tractors were having a hard time maneuvering around the curve signs without causing an accident, especially when people were speeding. Commissioner Ayers stated that he sent a picture and mentioned his concerns to NCDOT staff on April 16th, but there was no follow-up. Commissioner Ayers reported that he wanted to voice his opinion at a Southern Albemarle Association (SAA) meeting, but he could not attend. Commissioner Ayers added that others in attendance at the SAA meeting such as Chairman Dempsey Bond Jr and the Mayor of Bear Grass Charlotte Griffin expressed these concerns, with majority ofthe group echoing. On April 18th and 19th, 2024, Commissioner Ayers stated he called NCDOT staff, but there was no answer. Mr. Brooks Braswell, NCDOT, was in attendance and was asked to respond to the concerns stated. Mr. Braswell acknowledged the efforts made by Commissioner Ayers and explained how safety projects were conducted by NCDOT. It was reported that monthly meetings with a traffic safety group were held to discuss areas with an increase in accidents and study the accident trends in those areas for solutions. The area that Commissioner Ayers referenced in his example was reported to be an areas with a lot of accidents and the curve signs were used to attempt to remedy the cause ofthe accidents in that area. Mr. Braswell acknowledged that the signs were a little to close to the road and reported that an evaluation was conducted. NCDOT Braswell reported that the signs would be relocated across the ditch and or further away from the road to allow traffic flow. Mr. Braswell mentioned that the reason he had not responded was due to him awaiting an answer regarding this request. Commissioner Ayers responded to the suggested correction and stated that even if the signs were moved back two or three feet, the roads were narrow and the same issue would still exist. Commissioner Ayers suggested that the signs were moved on the other side of the road. Commissioner Ayers reportedly spoke with EMS about accidents and he was told that there were not many accidents on the road. Commissioner Ayers was interested in seeing the data that was used to decide to put the signs on the road because he was not sure in its accuracy. NCDOT Braswell reported that he would do research on what data was being used as he was not part of that process. Commissioner Ayers thanked NCDOT Braswell. Chairman Band Jr. mentioned a sign being too close to the road in the curve before the bridge and three way stop sign in Bear Grass. NCDOT Braswell reported that the areas could have been part ofa raw studies way, he was not sure, but he would do research on this as well. Chairman Bond Jr. asked NCDOT Braswell to give his presentation ifhe was ready. 2. Guardrail Safety Improvement Projects and Resolution in Support -Brooks Braswell, Project Engineer, NC DOT A safety project was recognized by NCDOTI by regional traffic safety data. Issues were recognized and they were doing their best to address it. Some contingency funds by the Board of Transportation were provided to NCDOT and NCDOT selected the NC 11 route through Martin County, Bertie County, and Hertford County as a corridor that needed improvements in reference to guardrails. Across the state, there were reportedly some other federal funding that has begun to address interstates and US routes, and NCDOT were reportedly attacking those on a tiered basis; interstates first, US routes, and then NC routes. NCDOT Braswell reported that NC routes had not been address just yet, but with this contingency fund, NCDOT wanted to get started with the improvements to their guardrails along this particular corridor. The contingency funds required a resolution of support from the Board before NCDOT Braswell could request that particular type offunding from the Board ofTransportation as part ofNCDOT's funding request in support ofthe project that they are about to pursue. Chairman Bond Jr. referred to the map given to the Board in the agenda packet and asked if the map showed the areas wherein NCDOT wanted to put the guardrails. NCDOT Braswell agreed and stated that the guardrail units that were not complaint to current standards and this was what NCDOT was proposing an upgrade those guardrails to the current standard to make the corridor safer. NCDOT Braswell stated that the corridor highlighted in yellow on the map contained approximately 69 in units that need to be upgraded and about 20 to 25 particular guardrail in units in Martin County. The cost of these upgrades was an estimated at about $850,000, but would be divided across the three counties. It was stated that Martin County would pay around $250,000.00- $300,000.00 for this project. Chairman Bond Jr. asked ift there were any questions. Commissioner Gurganus asked about the railroad crossings in the Pineywoods area and that part ofthe County that were been mentioned to be barely marked. Commissioner Gurganus stated that these railroads needed to be marked and he was not aware of what agency or if the railroad company would address this issue. NCDOT Braswell stated that the answer depended on what was being requested. Ifit was pavement or signage, this would be directed to NCDOT and if railroad improvements were being sought, the railroad company would have to be contacted. Commissioner Gurganus asked about blinking lights being installed and NCDOT Braswell reported that NCDOT would be the agency to handle this as the lights were considered signage and NCDOT would pay for the upgrades. It was stated that the railroad company would have to be contacted to provide a contractor to install the lights and or gate arms. Commissioner Gurganus thanked NCDOT Braswell as he had al hard time finding the correct contact and NCDOT Braswell stated that he could point Commissioner Gurganus in the correct direction. Commissioner Gurganus thanked NCDOT Braswell. RESOLUTION OF THE MARTIN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS IN SUPPORT OF GUARDRAIL IMPROVEMENTS ALONG NC 11 WHEREAS, NC 11 traverses through Martin County creating a means of transportation in and through the area; and, WHEREAS, the North Carolina Department of Transportation ("NCDOT") has identified portions ofNC 11 in Martin County for guardrail improvement projects; and, WHEREAS, the guardrail improvement projects are to be completed by NCDOT with a projected total cost of $852,805.00; and, WHEREAS, the guardrail improvement projects are anticipated to increase the overall safety and appearance of those identified portions of NC 11 in Martin County; and, WHEREAS, the Martin County Board of Commissioners is supportive of the efforts of NCDOT in the identification, selection, and completion of guardrail improvement projects to portions ofl NC 11 in Martin County. NOW, THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Martin County Board ofCommissioners that Martin County, by and through the Martin County Board ofCommissioners proclaims and acknowledges its support of the efforts of NCDOT in the identification, selection, and completion of guardrail improvement projects to portions of NC 11 in Martin County Adopted this the 8th day of May, 2024 in Martin County, North Carolina. Dempsey Bond, Jr, Chairman Martin County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Julia S. Rease, Clerk to the Board Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve of the NCDOT resolution and funding $300,000 - $400,000 in secure funding for next four months preliminary engineering with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 3. America's 250th Anniversary Appointment of Committee by Resolution - TDA Director Chase Conner TDA Director Chase Conner returned to the podium to discuss a resolution needed to appoint individuals to an America's 250th Anniversary Committee. TDA Director Conner reported that after celebrating the Martin County 250th Anniversary, many people contacted him about the 250TH Anniversary of America. Federal funding was reportedly being sent to states and the North Carolina Department of Cultural Natural Resources was encouraging each county to have a committee formed for America's 250 Anniversary. TDA Director Conner explained further that this meant that a group of people would be dedicated to promoting the 250th from promoting their area and how it connected to America' s formation. Martin County already had a committee formed for the 250th Anniversary of Martin County and this committee would also serve for America's 250th if the Board approved and if SO, Martin County would be one of the first counties with a committee already formed. For Martin County to be eligible to receive the funding mentioned for nonprofits and community groups, the Board had to approve of a resolution appointing the committee to serve as the America's 250th Committee for Martin County. TDA Director Conner asked ift there were any questions about this matter. Resolution of Martin County Recognizing and Approving of the Martin County Official America 250 NC Committee A resolution of Martin County, North Carolina, supporting the America 250 NC committee for the United States semiquincentennial (AMERICA250NC). WHEREAS, Roy Cooper, Governor ofNorth Carolina created AMERICA250NC to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States and North Carolina's integral role in that event and the role ofits people on the nation's past, present, and future: and WHEREAS, AMERICA250NC has a mission to engage ALL North Carolinians and ALL 100 counties through their many signatures and officially recognized programs, projects, and events over the commemoration by inspiring future leaders and celebrating North Carolina's contributions to the nation over the last 250 years; and WHEREAS, by adoption of America250NC's mission, Martin_ County Committee is officially formed to achieve the goals of America250NC. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Martin hereby endorses AMERICA250NC and its mission; and RESOLVED, the County of Martin officially establishes an AMERICA250NC Committee made up of a diverse group of citizens to work with AMERICA250NC on any and all activities. The participants of the Martin County Committee will be strictly voluntary roles and there will be no compensation for participation. IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy ofthis resolution be sent to the Martin legislative delegation and the AMERICA250NC Committee. ADOPTED this day of 202 Dempsey Bond Jr. Chairman Martin County Board ofCommissioners Julia Rease, Clerk to the Board Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to approve the Resolution of Martin County Recognizing and Approving of the Martin County Official America 250 NC Committee, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried Unanimously (5-0). 4. Approval of Contract to Update County Emergency Operations Plan Interim County Manager Eisner stated that Emergency Management Director Jody Griffin informed him of the need to update the Emergency Operations Plan on a regular basis and presented an updated version of the plan to be reviewed and approved by the Board. Interim County Manager Eisner stated that he was not an expert on Emergency Operation Plans, but he could answer any contractual questions. The Board was given time to review the plan. Chairman Bond Jr. asked if there were any questions about the plan presented. Interim County Manager Eisner added that the cost was $6,000 and would come from current fiscal year funds. Commissioner Gurganus made the Motion to Approve Updating the Emergency Operations Plan and the payment of $6,000.00 to administer it, with a Second by Commissioner Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). 5. Budget Amendment(s) Budget Amendment #51 Martin County received the first round of ARP funds on June 02, 2021 in the amount of 2,179,353.50. The second round of funds was received on June 21, 2022 for the same amount. These funds have been collecting interest as the County decided how to spend the ARP funds. At last month'sl Board meeting the Board approved a grant project ordinance, which uses the funds to replace expenditures in the Sheriff's S office from prior years. To date, the ARP funds have generated $349,283 in interest revenue. Budget amendment #51 appropriates those interest funds to be transferred to the general fund. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-SI 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, 2023. Section 1. To amend the American Rescue Plan Budget, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease American Rescue Plan $349,283 This will result in an increase of $349,243 in the expenditures oft the American Rescue Plan Fund. To provide an increase in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Interest Earned $349,283 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 Gurganus and Seconded by Vice Chair Biggs to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 8th day of May 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For your information INC DEC Investment Earnings 1900050 483100 $349,283 ARP Funds 1943300 569720 $349,283 Budget Amendment #52 Administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, the Spay/Neuter Program is intended to "foster the spaying and neutering of dogs and cats for the purpose of reducing the population of unwanted animals in the State. 27 Counties and cities are eligible to apply for reimbursement of direct costs ofspays and neuters of cats and dogs owned by low-income persons. Martin County has been participating in this program since 2016. Over the last year the County has seen an increase in the participation in this program. The County is reimbursed 100% of the cost ofthe veterinarian clinic service when grant funds are available. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT -52 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, 2024. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease Public Safety Sheriff $15,000 This will result in an increase of$15,000 in the expenditures of the General Fund. To provide an increase in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Restricted Intergovernmental $15,000 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 Commissioner Gurganus to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 8th day of May 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For your Information Increase Decrease Spay/Neuter Program 1143100 519400 $15,000 Spay/Neuter Program 1100025 443805 $15,000 Budget Amendment #53 The Assistant Finance Director is retiring effective June 1, 2024. The vacation payout for the Assistant Finance Director will be paid in June. The advertisement for this position has been released and staffis searching to find a replacement. Included in the budget amendment is salary for May and June for this position and the vacation payout. The Finance Director is retiring effective July 1, 2024. A replacement has been hired. Also included in this budget amendment is salary for June for the new Finance Officer to train with the retiring Finance Director. BUDGET ORDINANCE AMENDMENT-53 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, 2024. Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the expenditures are to be changed as follows. Increase Decrease Administration Finance $ 27,681 This will result in an increase of $27,681 in the expenditures of the General Fund. To provide a decrease in the revenues for the above, the following revenues will be changed. Fund Balance $ 27,681 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 Gurganus and Seconded by Commissioner Ayers to adopt the above budget ordinance amendment this 8th day of May 2024. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). For your information INC DEC Salaries 1141300 512100 $ 21,800 FICA 1141300 518100 $ 1,581 Medicare 1141300 518105 $ 368 Retirement 1141300 518200 $ 2,835 401K 1141300 518400 $ 1,097 Fund Balance Appropriation 1100090 499099 $ 27,681 CLOSED SESSION(S) - 1.N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(3). Attorney/Client Privilege 2. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(4) Economic Development 3. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel At: 7:56 p.m. Commissioner Biggs made the Motion to Enter Closed Session 1. N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11. (a)(3) Attorney/Client Privilege 2. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(4) Economic Development 3. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel with a Second by Commissioner Smith. The Motion Carried Unanimously (5-0). At: 8:28 p.m. Commissioner Ayers made the Motion to Exit Closed Session 1.N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11. (a)(3) Attorney/Client Privilege 2. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(4) Economic Development 3. N.C.G.S. $143-318.11. (a)(6) Personnel with a Second by Vice Chair Biggs. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). OPEN SESSION Interim County Manager Monthly Financial Statement - April 2024 Interim County Manager Eisner reported on his monthly financial statement for the month of April 2024 that was audited by the Finance Office and Human Resources. The total amount of work expenses was $3.400.00 and the total mileage was $540.00, coming to an overall total of$3,979.53. Interim County Manager Eisner asked if there were any questions and there were none. Commissioner Ayers Motioned to Approve of the Interim Manager Financial Statement for the Month of April 2024, with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0). BOARD REPORTS/COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS There were no Board reports and or Commissioners comments. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to discuss, at 8:31 p.m. Vice Chair Biggs made the Motion to Adjourn with a Second by Commissioner Gurganus. The Motion was Carried unanimously (5-0) Simpey Dempsey Bonde., Chairman Bnd.g. Darli Beore Juha Rease, Clerk to the Board