Minutes of August 12, 2024 Approved BWMUnion County, NC Board of Commissioners
Meeting Minutes
Union County Government Center
500 North Main Street Monroe, North Carolina
www.unioncountync.gov
Monday, August 12, 20246:00 PM Board Room, First Floor
_______________________________________________________________
Closed Session - 5:00 PM
24-565 Closed Session
PRESENT:Chairman J. R. Rowell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy C. Baucom, and Commissioner Melissa M. Merrell
ABSENT:Commissioner David Williams
ALSO PRESENT:Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton T. Voignier, Assistant County Manager;
and Jason Kay, County Attorney
In open session, at approximately 5:00 p.m., in the First Floor Conference Room, Union County Government Center, Chairman J. R. Rowell, opened the regular meeting of Monday, August 12,
2024, and moved that the Board enter into closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11:
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(1), to prevent the disclosure of
information that is privileged or confidential pursuant to G.S. 132-6, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3), to consult with an attorney in order
to preserve the attorney-client privilege, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(4), to discuss matter relating to the
location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area served
by the public body, including agreement on a tentative list of economic
development incentives that may be offered by the public body in
negotiations, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(9), to discuss and take action
regarding plans to protect public safety as it relates to existing or potential
terrorist activity and to receive briefings by staff members, legal counsel,
or law enforcement or emergency service officials concerning actions
taken or to be taken to respond to such activity.The motion passed by a vote of four to one as follows:Chair J. R. RowellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner Clancy BaucomAyeCommissioner
Melissa M. MerrellAyeCommissioner David Williams was not present.At approximately, 5:18 p.m., Chairman Rowell moved that the Board recess and reconvene its regular meeting at 6:00 p.m.
in the Board’s Meeting Chamber, first floor, Union County Government Center. The motion passed by a vote of four to one as follows:Chair J. R. RowellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner
Clancy BaucomAyeCommissioner Melissa M. MerrellAyeCommissioner David Williams was not present.
Opening of Meeting - 6:00 PM
The chairman convened the regular meeting at approximately 6:00 p.m. the following were
Present:Chairman J.R. Rowell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy C. Baucom, and Commissioner Melissa M. Merrell
Absent:Commissioner David Williams
Also Present:Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton Voignier, Assistant County Manager;
Jason Kay, County Attorney; and other interested residents.
Invocation - Vice Chairman Brian Helms offered the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance – Chairman J.R. Rowell led the body and audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Informal Comments
Chairman Rowell reviewed the guidelines for making informal comments and recognizedAeronia Poole as the first speaker.
Ms. Poole was not present
Roger Melton stated that he was a lifelong resident of Union County. He shared his concerns regarding the proposed rezoning on Highway 218 for a granite countertop business. He stated
that he is not a disgruntled neighbor or against aopposed to the business across from his property. He clarified that his main concern is the potential for pollution—air, water, and
noise.
Mr. Melton described Union County’s physical features, sayingexplaining Rocky River is at the top of the list. He noted howthat the northern part of the county sits on a rock,which has
cracks where water seeps down to aquifers, leading to issues with ponds leaking.
Mr. Melton reminded the Board that about 50 years ago,the Rocky River was polluted, and it took years to recover. He also recalled that progress of any kind was halted due to an endangered
mussel, called the Heelsplitter, found in branches that feed into Rocky River.
Mr. Melton raised a questionthat ififcontamination or poisoning happens, who would be responsible to monitorfor monitoring the waters, if this rezoning is approved. He also sought clarity
on chemicals that might be used to separate solids, control dust particles, and address airborne particles. He also raised concerns about the amount of noise that would be created.
Hequestioned if environmental authorities would be involved and if contamination occurred, who would be responsible for the cleanup. He emphasized the need for answers before the fact
and expressed his hope that the Board would make a prudent decision.He suggested that hopefully this company could find a more suitable tract of land, because he did not believe it iswould
be the right location.
Public Hearing(s)
24-542Public Hearing - BFS Operations LLC dba Builders FirstSource
(Project TEMPER) to Consider a “STEP 2” Economic Development
Incentive Grant in an Amount not to Exceed $104,500 over a
Five-Year Period
Chairman Rowell opened the public hearing at approximately 6:06 p.m. regarding a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500 over a five-year period
and recognized Ron Mahle from the Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission (EDC) for comments.
Mr. Mahle presented an economic development incentive grant request to the Board on behalf of BFS Operations LLC, doing business as BuildersFirstSource, also known as Project TEMPER.
He explained that Builders FirstSource is a residential construction materials manufacturerand distributor with a presence in 41 states. He stated that the company maintains three facilities
in Union County: in Indian Trail—glass, shower door, and mirror assembly facility; in Sutton Park, and MonroeRoad in Monroe. He said these locations have been operated for over 25 years
under previous names.
Mr. Mahle explained that the project under consideration is a $5.5 million investment in new equipment located at its Airport Road facility.He said this equipment would allowenable the
company to produce tempered glass that will then be shipped to its Indian Trail facility for final assembly, distribution, and installation.He explained that producing the tempered glass
locally willwould result in considerable cost savings over having to truck in the tempered glass from several states away.
Mr. Mahle added that the project is anticipated to create 35 new full-time jobs, and those jobs would paywith each job paying $25 per hour.
Heshared that discussions with FirstSource began earlier this summer, and the company has indicated that incentives are animportant factors for the project. He requested the Board’s
consideration of a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500, paid over five years, based on the Union County Tax Office’s appraised value each
year of the company’s $5.5 million equipment investment.
Mr. Mahle explained that, based on the investment and holding all other factors constant, including depreciation, BuildersFirstSource would pay an estimated $161,700 in ad valorem taxes
on the new investment over the five-year grant period. He added that after depreciation, the grant would be adjusted down to $97,800, and tax revenues would be adjusted to $151,300.
He noted that actual tax revenue would be based on the current tax rate applied to the assessed value of the investment each year.
Mr. Mahle presented the results of the cost-benefit analysis, showing a 2.24-to-1 ratio over the first five years of the project(or the grant period) and a 2.86-to-1 ratio over the life
of the projectproject’s lifetime. He said the Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission recommends the award of a “Step 2” performance-based Economic Development Incentive
Grant, to BFS Operations, LLC, doing business as Builders FirstSource, in an amount not to exceed $104,500, to help secure the $5.5 million investment.
Mr. Mahle introduced Bill Greene, the Charlotte Market Product Line Manager at BuildersFirstSource. He stated that Mr. Green was available to answer any questions about the project.
Chairman Rowell stated that no one had signed up to speak at the public hearing and asked if there was anyone present who had not registered to speak but who wanted to address the Board
during this time.
With there being no one who wishedwishing to speak, the Chairman closed the public hearing at approximately 6:10 p.m.
Staff Recognition
24-498 Recognize Lifesaver Award Recipients
Chairman Rowell recognized County Manager Brian Matthews to present the item.
Mr. Matthews recognizedUnion County Water Crewleader Jayme Hargett and Utility Technician Dominick Hamilton with the Lifesaver Award. He explained that one of Mr. Hargett’s and Mr.
Hamilton’s co-workers, Matt Hargett, was being lowered into a sewer manhole, andhis apparatus and equipment started showing that there were some dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in
the manhole. Mr. Hargett and Mr. Hamilton quickly pulled Matt Hargett back out. Mr. Matthews emphasized that second’sseconds mattered in this situation and could have meant the difference
between life and death.
Mr. Matthews presented plaques to Dominick Hamilton and Jayme Hargett in recognition of their efforts, and they were photographed with the Board.
24-522 Public Communications Department Earns International Awards
Chairman Rowell introduced Liz Cooper, Public Communications Director, to present the item.
Liz Cooper, Public Communications Director, shared that the Public Communications team had recently received two international awards from the 30th annual Communicator Awards, the largest
and most competitive awards program, celebrating creative excellence in communications.
Ms. Cooper explained that the team earned an Award of Excellence, which is the competition's highest honor, for the Yadkin Regional Water Supply Project completion video, and an Award
of Distinction in the recruitment category for a video entitled 'Grow Your Future with Union County Government.'" She noted that these awards were selected from more than 3,000 entries
across the country and around the world.
Ms. Cooper emphasized the importance of creating compelling, engaging content that resonates with residents and stakeholders. She expressed pride in her team’s achievements and thanked
the Board for this opportunity.
Ms. Cooper and her team members were photographed with the Commissioners.
24-532 Information Technology Department Earns National Award
Chairman Rowell introduced the next agenda item and recognized Jon Amelio, Information Technology Director, regarding an international award received by thethisdepartment.
Mr. Amelio explained that the Center for Digital Government is a research and advisory organization that focuses on the use of technology in government. He said that the Center, in
partnership with GovTech magazine, conducts a nationally recognized digital government survey. He further said this survey identifies municipalities that have demonstrated excellence
in digital government by highlighting successful projects, innovative solutions, and effective leadership in the use of technology.
He shared that Union County's Information Technology Department was awarded the Digital Counties Award at the National Association of Counties Conference in July, ranking sixth in the
150,000 to 249,999 population categoryies. He stated that this marks the eighth yearthat his department has been recognized in the top 10 nationally, with this year being the second-highest
ranking the department has attained. Mr. Amelio expressed appreciation to his team, leadership group, progressive and creative departments within the county and the supportive management.
He introduced his team members present: Chance Kelly, Vann Dale, Buffy Dorch, Liz Trevino, Assistant Director Chris Liersaph, and Brian McFadden. He thanked the team members for their
contributions, expressing appreciation for their role in helping the county make progress.
Mr. Amelio and his team members were photographed with the Commissioners.
24-570 Recognize Sheriff’s Office K9 Team for Extraordinary Efforts to Helpa Child
Chairman Rowell recognized Lieutenant James Maye, Union County Sheriff’s Office, to present the item.
Lieutenant Mayeintroduced K9 Remy and expressed appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners and the County management team for the opportunity to speak about a recent event where
Deputy Brad Belk and K9 Remi had an opportunity to make a difference in the community. Lieutenant Maye expressed gratitude to the residents of Union Countyfor their daily support of
the men and women in the Sheriff’s office.
Lieutenant Mayesaid he serves as the Public Information Officer for Sheriff Eddie Cathey. He provided a summary of an incident that led to special recognition of Deputy Belk and K9 Remi.
He shared that on July 7, a resident called 911 after finding a child walking alone alongon Waxhaw Indian Trail Road. He stated that multiple deputies responded and tried to determine
the child’s home but were unsuccessful due to the child’s autism and non-verbal status. Lieutenant Maye said that Deputy Belk and bloodhound Remi then attempted a reverse canine track,
starting from where the child was found and aiming to locate his home.
He explained the unusual approach, as reverse tracking is not standard practice. He said, lacking a typical scent article, Deputy Belk used sterile gauze to collect a scent from the
child’s arm and neck, which he then provided to Remi. He stated that Remi followed the scent for about half a mile, leading them to a home with an open garage. The Lieutenant said that
when the deputies knocked on the door, the relieved parents confirmed they were missing their child. He said the team reunited the boy with his family.
He explained that the reverse tracking approach was not typical for the Sheriff’s Office. He described the incident as a unique approach to a search. Lieutenant Maye expressed pride
in the team and welcomed Sheriff Eddie Cathey to speak further about their exceptional work.
Sheriff Eddie Catheyshared what itthis action meant to this community and his agency for this honor.He explained that while people often think of law enforcement as chase chasing them,
catching them, putting them in jail,and noted that is not what they do every day.Sheriff Catheystated said that deputies perform all the things that are necessary to keep the community
safe. He expressed appreciation to the Board for its support of the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Belk and Remi were photographed with the Commissioners.
Lieutenant James Mayecommented that the Sheriff's Office has many animals available for adoption, including plenty of Remi’s cousins and friends, although not all are hounds;there are
various mixed breeds. He highlighted that the Sheriff's Office is currently running a "Clear the Shelters" campaign for the next 20 days, aiming to getadoptedadopt out 50 animals. He
encouraged the public to visit the shelter,andnotednoting that all adoptable animals are listed on the Sheriff's Office webpage.
Consent Agenda
Chairman Rowell asked if there were any motions regarding requested revisions or amendments to either the consent agenda or the business agenda.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms moved to adopt the consent agenda and the business agenda as published.
The motion passed with a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-516 Task Order Amendment - On-Call GIS Support
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda’s items, 2) exercise any renewal or extension term options set
forth in the Agreement, and 3) terminate the Agreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager’s discretion.
Union County Water (UCW) has established a Smart Water vision that
includes high-level data and system architecture to assist with real-time
data visualization and long-term planning. UCW has a need for additional
resources to advance the geospatial elements of the roadmap. This task
order amendment is to continue on-call geospatial services to help
support UCW with:
- Data design and architecture;
- Geospatial application development;
- Asset Management program development;
- Data governance, SOPs, or other work instructions;
- Database design, creation, and documentation; and
- Other geospatial services as required.
This funding is needed to supplement staff. UCW has had difficulty
recruiting for these particular GIS administration and application
development skills. This amendment is to add additional funds to
continue the on-call support.
The total cost of the contract amendment with Dewberry Engineers, Inc.,
is $90,000.00. Sufficient funds are available in the FY2025 budget.
24-520 Contract - FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program - Phase B
ACTION:1) Accept the scope of services for engineering design, permitting,easement exhibit preparation, and bidding for the FY2023 Short WaterLine Extension Program - Phase B as shown
in the attached Freese andNichols, Inc. Task Order 8740-01 in the amount of $177,890.00 and 2)authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent
with this agenda item.
The Short Water Line Extension Program, as adopted by the Board of
County Commissioners (BOCC), provides for the extension of water lines
to serve and provide an environmental benefit to qualifying applicants in
Union County. The program has attracted significant interest and has
maintained a backlog of applicants/projects for several years. Funding to
address the backlog of applicants/projects was previously authorized by
the BOCC as part of the FY2020 and FY2021 Capital Improvement Plan
budgets. A revision of the program for FY2022 included an annual
application period, prioritization of applications based on ranking criteria,
annual funding allocation commensurate with program participation
subject to BOCC approval, and no project backlog.
Union County staff reviewed the FY2022 program results and
recommended revisions to the scoring criteria, and addingadded the well testingrequirement for the FY2023 program. The application period, cost sharefee, well testing requirements, and
revised scoring criteria were approvedby the BOCC on June 20, 2022. On September 19, 2022, the BOCCapproved testing reimbursement up to $200 per applicant using$100,000 of appropriated
ARPA funds.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program has a budget of $5
million. Applications for the program were accepted from September 21,
2022, through December 20, 2022. A total of thirty-four (34) projects wereassembled from the sixty-five (65) applicants that applied for the program,with a total length of approximately
33.7 miles. These projects wereevaluated and ranked based on the ranking criteria approved by the BOCC approvedon June 20, 2022. A share fee ranging from $750 to $3,000 per
applicant was determined for each of the thirty-four projects based on the
cost share sliding scale approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. Based
on the ranking of the projects and the FY2023 budget, seventeen (17)
projects were recommended for selection for the FY2023 Short Water
Line Extension Program. These projects consisted of forty-five (45)
applicants with a total length of approximately 6.5 miles. The total
The estimated cost for these seventeen projects was $3.3 million dollars. TheBOCC approved the list of recommended applicant projects in August14, 2023.
The forty-five applicants for the selected projects were required to pay thecost share fee and meter installation fee by the November 20, 2023
deadline to confirm participation in the program. Of the forty-five selected
applicants, thirty-four (34) paid their fees. Fifteen (15) of the selected
seventeen projects had at least one (1) applicant pay fees. These fifteen
projects were re-scored based on the number of paid applicants. Project
rankings were not impacted by the change in the number of applicants for change in number of applicants.
At the BOCC meeting on November 6, 2023, the BOCC noted theirits
preference not to utilize condemnation for easement acquisition for the
FY2023 Short Water Line Extension projects. Based on information
provided by NCDOT, staff estimates that three (3) of the fifteen recommended projects will require an estimated total of thirteen (13)
easements, with six (6) of these easements being from non-applicants.
On April 1, 2024, the BOCC approved the updated list of fifteen
recommended projects.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program projects have been
divided into Phase A and Phase B. Phase B consists of approximately
12,860 LF of water lines ranging from 2-inch to 12-inch to serve 12
applicants on Medlin Road, Mullis Newsome Road, Morgan Mill Road,
Old Pageland Monroe Road, Edwards Farm Lane, and Little Staton
Road.
This task order includes engineering services for design, permitting,
easement exhibit preparation, and bidding services for Phase B. The
scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order 8740-01 has
been reviewed by UCW engineering staff and is appropriate for the
project. These services are to be provided on a lump sum basis of
$84,070.00 and a not-to-exceed basis of $93,820.00 for a total task order
amount of $177,890.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Short Water Line Program to
support the engineering services as shown in Freese and Nichols, Inc.
Task Order 8740-01 in the amount of $177,890.00.
24-521 Contract - FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program - Phase A
ACTION:1) Accepted the scope of services for engineering design, permitting,easement exhibit preparation, and bidding for the FY2023 Short WaterLine Extension Program - Phase A as shown
in the attached WK Dickson& Co., Inc. Task Order 8678-01 in the amount of $279,600.00 and 2)authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent
with this agenda item.
The Short Water Line Extension Program, as adopted by the Board of
County Commissioners (BOCC), provides for the extension of water lines
to serve and provide an environmental benefit to qualifying applicants in
Union County. The program has attracted significant interest and has
maintained a backlog of applicants/projects for several years. Funding to
address the backlog of applicants/projects was previously authorized by
the BOCC as part of the FY2020 and FY2021 Capital Improvement Plan
budgets. A revision of the program for FY2022 included an annual
application period, prioritization of applications based on ranking criteria,
annual funding allocation commensurate with program participation
subject to BOCC approval, and no project backlog.
Union County staff reviewed the FY2022 program results and
recommended revisions to the scoring criteria and adding the well testing
requirement for the FY2023 program. The application period, cost share
fee, well testing requirements, and revised scoring criteria were approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. On September 19, 2022, the BOCC approved well testing reimbursement up to $200
per applicant using $100,000 of appropriated ARPA funds.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program has a budget of $5
million. Applications for the program were accepted from September 21,
2022 through December 20, 2022. A total of thirty-four (34) projects were
assembled from the sixty-five (65) applicants that applied for the program
with a total length of approximately 33.7 miles. These projects were
evaluated and ranked based on the ranking criteria the BOCC approved
on June 20, 2022. A cost share fee ranging from $750 to $3,000 per
applicant was determined for each of the thirty-four projects based on the
cost share sliding scale approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. Based
on the ranking of the projects and the FY2023 budget, seventeen (17)
projects were recommended for selection for the FY2023 Short Water
Line Extension Program. These projects consisted of forty-five (45)
applicants with a total length of approximately 6.5 miles. The total
estimated cost for these seventeen projects was $3.3 million dollars. The
BOCC approved the list of recommended applicant projects on August
14, 2023.
The forty-five applicants for the selected projects were required to pay the cost-share fee and meter installation fee by November 20, 2023,
deadline to confirm participation in the program. Of the forty-five selected
applicants, thirty-four (34) paid their fees. Fifteen (15) of the selected
seventeen projects had at least one (1) applicant pay fees. These fifteen
projects were re-scored based on the number of paid applicants. Project
rankings were not impacted by the change in the number of applicants for each project, but project lengths and costs were updated due to the
change in the number of applicants.
At the BOCC meeting on November 6, 2023, the BOCC noted their
preference not to utilize condemnation for easement acquisition for the
FY2023 Short Water Line Extension projects. Based on information
provided by NCDOT, staff estimates that three (3) of the fifteen
recommended projects will require an estimated total of thirteen (13)
easements, with six (6) of these easements being from non-applicants.
On April 1, 2024, the BOCC approved the updated list of fifteen
recommended projects.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program projects have been
divided into Phase A and Phase B. Phase A consists of approximately
13,120 LF of water lines ranging from 2-inch to 12-inch to serve 21
applicants on New Town Road and Belair Street, Grove Drive, Stack
Road, Sanford Lane, Nesbit Road, Tom Starnes Road, Forest Drive, and
Newell Drive.
This task order includes engineering services for design, permitting,
easement exhibit preparation, and bidding services for Phase A. The
scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order 8678-01 has
been reviewed by UCW engineering staff and is appropriate for the
project. These services are to be provided on a lump sum basis of
$133,300.00 and a not-to-exceed basis of $146,300.00 for a total task
order amount of $279,600.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Short Water Line Program to
support the engineering services as shown in WK Dickson & Co., Inc.
Task Order 8678-01 in the amount of $279,600.00.
24-530Resolution - Waxhaw Sanitary Sewer Replacement & Rehabilitation - NCDEQ-DWI Funding Offer
ACTION:1) Adopted resolution to accept 2023 Appropriations Act (S.L. 2023-134)funding in the amount of $1,477,500.00 from the North CarolinaDepartment of Environmental Quality Division
of Water Infrastructure and2) authorize the County Manager to execute all necessary documentation to effectuate acceptance of the funding.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), includes an allocation for the Wastewater
Rehabilitation and Replacement Program geared towards asset
management of existing wastewater facilities. A condition assessment
was completed for the Waxhaw Septic Tank Effluent Gravity (STEG)
system, and a two-phase replacement project was developed to replace
the existing 4-inch and 6-inch STEG sewer piping with conventional
8-inch gravity sewer mains and manholes due to their poor condition. The first phase of the project consists of the replacement of approximately 4,000 linear feet of sewer lines in the
Waxhaw downtown area on the north side of the railroad that runs along Highway 75.
On March 1, 2021, the BOCC approved WK Dickson Task Order 2021-01 in the amount of $104,850.00 for the engineering field assessment and preliminary design. The BOCC also approved WK
Dickson Task Order 2021-09 in the amount of $135,509.00 for final design, permitting, and bidding services on March 20, 2023.
Funding has been offered by the North Carolina Department of
Environmental Quality Division of Water Infrastructure in the amount of
$1,477,500.00 to be applied to the cost of the construction of the project.
The resolution acknowledges receipt of a Letter of Intent to Fund and
Funding Offer and accepts the terms of the Funding Offer in the amount
of $1,477,500.00 from the 2023 Appropriations Act (S.L. 2023-134) to
assist eligible units of government with meeting their water/wastewater
infrastructure needs. The funds will be used for the Waxhaw Sanitary
Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation project construction.
No immediate financial impact. Once the project commences, the County
will submit requests for reimbursement to the State on a recurring basis
until the $1,477,500.00 in funding is exhausted.
24-531 WRF Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Updates
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager's discretion.
Union County owns and operates five water reclamation facilities (WRFs). Two of those facilities, the Twelve Mile Creek WRF and Crooked Creek WRF are required to comply with the North
Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s (NCDEQ) National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) NCG110000 General Stormwater Permit for Treatment Works. SWPPPs were created for the Twelve Mile Creek WRF and Crooked Creek WRF sites in the fall of 2008,
recently NCDEQ updated the stormwater permit that requires updates to the SWPPP for both facilities.
Hazen and Sawyer has been selected to provide Engineering Services for7364-5. Hazen and Sawyer was chosen from a list of vendors previouslyselected from RFQ 2022-008, Engineering Services
for Twelve MileCreek WRF Expansion to 9 MGD to provide these services for UnionCounty projects.
The total cost of the contract with Hazen and Sawyer is $72,440.00.
Sufficient funds are available in Capital Account WRF Operations Budget
- 60026710-5381.
24-533 Contract Amendment - FY2022 Union County Pump Station Rehab
ACTION:1) Accepted the scope of services for additional design services as shown in the attached Task Order 2021-05 Amendment 2 with WK Dickson & Co., Inc. in the amount of $91,300.00
and 2) authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The Wastewater Pump Station Improvements Program, as adopted by
the Board of County Commissioners includes an annual allocation for
rehab and renewal of wastewater pump stations. This project will include
the rehabilitation of seven pump stations: Olde Sycamore No. 1, Olde
Sycamore No. 2, Green Meadows, Suburban Estates No. 1, Suburban
Estates No. 3, Magnolia Ridge, and Old Hickory.
On March 7, 2022, the BOCC approved WK Dickson & Co., Inc. Task
Order 2021-05 for engineering design services for the project in the
amount of $141,750.00. Task Order 2021-05 was initially increased by
$18,700.00, with the County Manager’s approval, to a total amount of
$160,450.00 through Amendment 1 to cover additional engineering
services.
Amendment 2 includes additional design efforts, including an additional
survey for Magnolia Ridge and Old Hickory pump stations, structural
design of elevated platforms, and HEC-RAS study for Suburban Estates
No. 1 pump station, andas well as additional electrical and engineering design at allsites. The scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order2021-05 Amendment 2 has been
reviewed by UCW engineering staff andis appropriate for the project. These services are to be provided on alump sum basis in the amount of $50,560.00 and not-to-exceed basis inthe amount
of $40,740.00, for ana total amendment total amount of $91,300.00.This amendment will increase the total task order value to $251,750.00.Funding is available within the adopted Capital
Improvement Program tosupport the increase in WK Dickson & Co., Inc., Task Order 2021-05Amendment 2 in the amount of 91,300.00, bringing the total task ordervalue to $251,750.00.
24-534Bid Award - Crooked Creek WRF UV Disinfection Replacement
Project
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder, authorize award of the construction contract toBasinger Contracting Co., in the amount of $2,869,177.75, 2) accept thescope of engineering services
for construction administration as shown inthe attached Task Order 8684-01 with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., in theamount of $311,690.00, 3) authorize the County Manager to negotiateand execute
agreements substantially consistent with this agenda item,and 4) adopt Resolution Providing Notice of the Crooked Creek WRF UVDisinfection Replacement Project Construction.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), includes an allocation for rehabilitation projects
at the County’s Water Reclamation Facilities (WRF’s) as part of the WRF
R&R Program. These improvements are integral to the long-term
maintenance and operation of these facilities.
The Crooked Creek WRF currently uses ultraviolet (UV) light for
disinfection of the reclaimed water prior to thedischarge of the treated
effluent. The current equipment is at the end of its useful life, and the
manufacturer has released a bulletin stating that it will no longer support
this model of UV equipment due to the model being outdated with their
current manufacture of more efficient UV equipment. Therefore, an
evaluation was completed in January 2023 to determine the best option
for replacement of the existing equipment since the facility will remain in
operation for the foreseeable future.
The BOCC approved Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 2020-07 on June 5,
2023, for engineering design and bid phase services for this expansion
project in the amount of $348,560.00. The BOCC also approved theuse ofpreferred brand alternate procurement of for the UV disinfection equipmentat the February 19, 2024, meeting.
Union County advertised the project on June 13, 2024, and received five
(5) bids at the bid opening on July 18, 2024. The bids ranged from
$2,869,177.75 to $3,596,467.75. The engineer’s estimate for the constructionof the project was $3,000,000.00. The bids were reviewed and certified bythe engineer per the attached award
recommendation letter and bidtabulation. Based on the engineer’s review and Procurement Divisionapproval of the bid, UCW engineering staff recommends that the projectbe awarded to the
lowest responsive, responsible bidder, BasingerContracting Co., in the amount of $2,869,177.75.
To support the construction of the project, construction administration
services are required to ensure the project is constructed to meet the
requirements set forth in the project plans and specifications. The scope
of services for construction administration services identified in the
attached Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 8684-01 has been reviewed by
UCW engineering staff, and is appropriate for the project. Services are to
be provided on a per diem, not to exceed basis in the amount of
$311,690.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Capital Improvement Program for
the Crooked Creek WRF UV Disinfection Replacement project to support
the construction contract amount of $2,869,177.75 with Basinger
Contracting Co., and construction administration services described in
Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 8684-01 in the amount of $311,690.00.
24-546 Task Order - Easement - Evaluation, Education, and Enforcement
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute anagreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
Union County Water has the responsibility to operate and maintain over
400 miles of off-street water and wastewater distribution lines. NCDEQ
also requires UC Water to maintain access to this infrastructure. An
easement is the right to make use of land owned by another
without taking a part thereof. In the case of our water and sewer system,
easements give the County the right of access to inspect, maintain,
repair, or replace its infrastructure. When an easement crosses an
owner’s property, it is important that access by the County is not
restricted. The County must be able to reach its infrastructure for routine
maintenance and repairs. There are several types of obstructions that
could prevent the County from accessing sewer and water infrastructure
in the easement area. They include, but are not limited to, fences, swing
sets, swimming pools, sheds, home additions, garages, tennis courts andtrees. Currently we have 1,826 known obstructions throughout the
system. UC Water has an established SOP to address these
obstructions. Consultant Service with an expertise in property research
and enforcement is needed to address these obstructions. This Task
Order has a three (3) year term and is subject to budget appropriation.
Professional Property Services, Inc. has been selected to provide
Easement - Evaluation, Education, and Enforcement for Task Order
#8981-01. Professional Property Services, Inc. was chosen from a list of
vendors previously selected from RFQ 2024-054 to provide these
services for Union County projects.
The total cost of the contract with Professional Property Services, Inc. is
$400,000. Sufficient funds are available in the Capital Account
60026512-5381 - Field Services Operations Budget.
24-548 Bid Award - Emerald Woods Water Main Extension
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder, authorize award of the construction contract toClassic City Mechanical, Inc. in the amount of $478,154.25, 2) accept thescope of engineering services
for construction administration as shown inthe attached Task Order 2021-02 with Kimley-Horn in the amount of$52,857.00, 3) adopt Resolution Providing Notice of the Emerald WoodsWater
Main Extension Project Construction, and 4) authorize the CountyManager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistentwith this agenda item.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners, including system improvements and extensions of the
existing water system. Union County Water will be responsible for
procuring engineering and construction services for design,
permitting, bidding, and construction of the proposed water main
extension project. The project consists of 8-inch, 6-inch and 2-inch water
mains and appurtenances in order to provide water to the Emerald
Woods subdivision.
On November 7, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners approved theInterlocal Agreement between Union County and the Town of Indian Trail.As part of this agreement, Union County is responsible
for an amount notto exceed $400,000.00 based on an equal cost share (50%) of the totalcost of the project. The Town of Indian Trail agrees to reimburse UnionCounty in an amount not to
exceed $400,000.00 based on an equal share(50%) of the total cost of the project.
On June 6, 2023, The Board of County Commissioners approved the
Capital Project Ordinance 319A for the purpose of providing funds,
together with any other available funds, for the Emerald Woods Water
Main Extension project in the amount of $800,000.00.On July 17, 2023, the BOCC approved Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-01for engineering design services for the project in the amount of$129,874.00.
On July 23, 2024, the Union County Procurement Division received and
opened eight (8) bids for the project. All bids were reviewed and certified
by the engineer per the attached award recommendation letter and bid
tabulation. The bids ranged from $478,154.25 to $1,036,510.60 and,
based on the engineer’s review and Procurement Division approval of thebids, staff recommends that the project be awarded to the lowest
responsive, responsible bidder, Classic City Mechanical, Inc., in the
amount of $478,154.25.
To support the construction of the project, construction administration
services are required to ensure the project is constructed to meet the
requirements set forth in the project plans and specifications. The scope
of services for construction administration services identified in the
attached Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-02 has been reviewed by UCW
engineering staff and is appropriate for the project. Services are to be
provided on a lump sum basis in the amount of $11,156.00 and a
not-to-exceed basis in the amount of $41,701.00, for a total task order
amount of $52,857.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Capital Improvement Program for
the Emerald Woods Water Main Extension project to support the
construction contract amount of $478,154.25 with Classic City
Mechanical, Inc. and construction administration services described in
Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-02 in the amount of $52,857.00 with these
total costs being shared equally between Union County and the Town of
Indian Trail.
24-535Purchase - Law Enforcement Vehicles
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager's discretion.
(20) 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 1FL/LS PPV 9C1 4WD CK10706
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of 20 - 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 4 Dr 1500 PPV 4WD 9C1
CK10706 will be made using North Carolina Statewide Contract 2510A asquoted by Capital Chevrolet. The Procurement Department has vetted
this contract and thepurchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the Vehicle is $1,038,185.60 and is budgeted
accordingly, for FY2025.
24-481 Lease Agreement - United States Department of Agriculture for
Office Space at the Union County Agricultural Center
ACTION:1)Adopted resolution authorizing the execution of a lease of office space atthe Union County Agricultural Center to the United States Department ofAgriculture, and 2) authorize
the County Manager to negotiate andexecute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The United States Department of Agriculture, formerly known as the FarmService Agency, has leased space in the Union County Agricultural
Center for the past three (3) years under a lease agreement that expires
on July 31, 2024. The United States Department of Agriculture is
requesting that the agreement be renewed for another three (3) year termbeginning on August 1, 2024, and terminating on July 31, 2027. Thereare no requested changes in square footage
or other facility-relatedneeds.The terms of the lease include the following: 2,693 rentable square feet ofoffice space located at Union County Agricultural Building. The Lesseeshall
pay, as rental for said premises, the sum of forty thousand threehundred and ninety-five ($40,395.00) dollars per annum.
The County will receive $40,395.00 per annum per the lease terms.
24-554 Change Order - Jail Door Locks and Controls Project
ACTION:1) authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth in
the Agreement, and terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion, and 2) Adopt CPO #288D
April 3, 2023, Regular Meeting, Agenda Item # 23-189 - Awarded
construction contract, authorized execution of thecontract, and adopted
resolution providing notice of construction.
After execution of the construction contract, Union County entered
negotiations with the contractor, JM Cope, Inc., to reduce the scope of
work to lower overall project costs, considering discussions surrounding
the potential approval of a new Detention Center. The reduction in scope
was to include a significant reduction in the number of cell locks to be
replaced, as well as associated electronic control system connections andwiring. Given that the new Detention Center will take several years tocomplete once approved, the UC Sheriff’s
Office requested that the
original scope be restored, add two (2) alternates, not originally accepted
on bid day, and increase the number of keys to be cut and delivered. In
addition, the contractor realized significant escalation during the time of
scope reduction negotiations, and those costs are included in the change
order request. Union County Sheriff’s Office and Facilities Management
staff recommend approval of costs for the increased scope of work and
associated costs included in the change order.
The breakdown of costs included in the change order request is below:
Alternate #1 - Rekey food pass locks$69,064.00
Alternate #2 - Replace existing cell door hinges $28,369.00
Material Price Escalation $70,895.00
Additional Keys $11,985.00
Total $180,313.00
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of JM Cope,
Inc., for construction services on the Jail Door Locks and Controls project
since 2023. JM Cope, Inc., has been effective and efficient in meeting these service needs., andtheTherequest is to approve the contract amendmentto increase the scope of work as detailed
in this request and the changeorder documents.
This request also includes the adoption of CPO#288D to provide
sufficient funds in the Jail Door Controls and Locks capital account,
40080126, to cover these additional costs and allow additional budget for
future change orders if needed. Any unused budget can be transferred foruse onto other projects at the completion of the project. Any additionalchange orders will also be brought to
the Board for approval at futuremeetings. We are requesting the transfer of funds totaling $235,000.00from the Jail Paint Block Walls and Floors capital account, 40080112, intothe Jail
Door Controls and Lock capital account, 40080126.The contractor has submitted Change Order #1 in the amount of$180,313.00 to cover the costs associated with the increased scope andescalation.
The original contract price was $2,721,000.00, and with thischange order will increase by $180,313.00 to $2,901,313.00.
The cost of this change order is $180,313.00. After theadoption of
CPO#288D, there will be sufficient funds in the capital account 40080126 -
Jail Door Controls and Locks to cover this expense.
24-557Lease Agreement - State of North Carolina, Department of Public
Safety - DJJ (Juvenile Justice) for Office Space at 604 Lancaster
Avenue
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
Union County has provided office space, located at 604 Lancaster
Avenue in Monroe, through a lease to the NC Department of Juvenile
Justice since 2018. The County currently leases the property from
Raymond Smith at a cost of $85,971.00 per annum and will sub-lease theproperty to the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice for $1 perannum.The current sub-lease with the North
Carolina Department of AdultCorrection expires on June 30, 2024. This request is to approve a newtwo (2) year lease with the following conditions and terms:
Being approximately 10,300 net square feet of office space located at 604Lancaster Avenue, Union County, Monroe, North Carolina, and furtherdescribed in the floor plan, Exhibit “A” (attached).
The term of this leaseshall be for a period of two (2) years, commencing on the1st day of July2024, or as soon thereafter as the leased premises are ceded to theLessee and terminating
on the 31st day of May 2026. During the term ofthe lease, the Lessee shall pay to the Lessor as rental for said premisesthe sum of $1.00 dollarper annum.
The County currently leases the property at a cost of $85,971.00 per
annum and will receive $1 per annum from this sublease to the North
Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.
24-560 Change Order - Austin Chaney Site Redesign Project
INFORMATION CONTACT:
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
July 17, 2023, Regular Meeting, Agenda Item # 23-432 - Awarded
construction contract, authorized execution of contract, adopted
resolution providing notice of construction, adopted Budget Amendment
#2, and adopted CPO #255A.
The project is to redesign the Austin Chaney residential waste and
recycling center site. The existing site has many deficiencies that
negatively impact the customer experience of Union County residents.
The deficiencies include limited space dedicated to the various waste andrecycling functions, poor circulation patterns for entry, drop-off, and exit,limited vehicular control options
presenting staff and users with possiblesafety concerns, no lighting, limited options for operational controls andtransfers, and poor drainage. The new site layout was designedaccording
to industry’s best practices and comparable to other county andmunicipal facilities.The contractor, Anson Contractors, Inc., encountered a significant area ofunsuitable soil while performing
excavation and proof-rolling for the siteimprovements. Remediation of the unsuitable soils included removal andreplacement with suitable fill. There were also minor elevationadjustments
made by the designer that required additional grading andfilling. The contractor has requested approval of Change Order #7, in theamount of $87,605.09 to complete the soil remediation.
The County’sthird-party special inspector/materials testing firm confirmed all quantitiesand the project designer confirmed the proper application of unit pricing. SolidWaste and Facilities
staff recommend approval of the change orderincluded in this request.
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of Anson
Contractors, Inc. for construction services on the Austin Chaney Site
Redesign project since July 17, 2023. Anson Contractors, Inc. has been
effective and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are
requesting to approve the contract amendment to add the costs
associated with Change Order #7.
The contractor has submitted Change Order #7 in the amount of
$87,605.09 to cover these unexpected costs. The new contract price will
be increased to $3,378,656.95 after the addition of the $87,605.09
included in this change order.
The cost of this change order is $87,605.09. There are sufficient funds in
the Austin Chaney Site Redesign capital budget to cover this expense.
24-561Change Order - Detention Center Painting Project
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
The original scope of work for the project was reduced when bid to lower
costs considering discussions surrounding the potential approval of a new
Detention Center. The reduction in scope included a significant reduction
in the areas to be painted and removed painting cell walls and floors as
well as other specialty holding and program areas. Given that the new
Detention Center will take several years to complete once approved, the
UC Sheriff’s Office requested that the original scope be restored.
Approval of this change order will eliminate future inmate transfer costs
when future painting may be required. Union County Sheriff’s Office and
Facilities Management staff recommend approval of costs for the
increased scope of work and associated costs included in the change
order.
The breakdown of painting costs included in the change order request is
below:
Jail cell walls and ceilings (96 total) $176,160.00
Jail cell floor epoxy (96 total) $82,848.00
Telephone rooms (2 total) $6,770.00
Special handling cell (8 total) $21,440.00
Solitary confinement/group holding floors$3,470.00
Total $290,688.00
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of H.C.
Rummage for construction services on the Detention Center Painting
project since June 17, 2024. H.C. Rummage has been effective and
efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are requesting to approve
the contract amendment to increase the scope of work as detailed in this
request.
The contractor has submitted Change Order #1 in the amount of
$290,688.00 to cover the costs associated with the increased scope. The
original contract price was $213,050.00, and with this change order will
increase by $290,688.00 to $503,738.00.
The cost of this change order is $290,688.00. There are sufficient funds
in capital account 40080112 - Jail Paint Block Walls and Floors to cover
this expense.
24-562 Task Order - Architectural Services for Fairview Fire Training Tower
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
This request is to approve task order 2024-01 for Progressive
Architecture Engineering, P. C. to provide architectural services for the
new Fairview Fire Training Tower project. The project is anticipated to
include sitework, structural footing systems, a pre-engineered fire training
structure, site lighting, parking and circulation paving, and utilities as
needed. It will be located immediately adjacent to the rear of the new
Fairview Fire Station. The total budget for the project is planned to be
$800,000.00.
Progressive Design was selected as one of the County’s On-Call
Architectural Design teams for various capital projects. Staff has
recommends approval of task order 2024-01 in the amount of
$78,730.00.
The cost of the services provided within this task order is $78,730.00, and
there are sufficient funds in the Fire Training capital account, 40080176,
to cover the expense.
24-564Contract - Architectural Services to Complete Union County Jail
Study
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementconsistent with this agenda item.
This request is to approve a contract with Little Divpersified Architectural
Consultants to complete a comprehensive space needs,and a
programming study for a new Union County Jail facility. The purpose of
this study is to ascertain the improvements needed to maximize the
efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal justice system, and in turn, to
guide a sensible plan regarding the future of the jail facility. The scope of
the study will include stakeholder interviews, and criminal justice system data
analysis, evaluation of incarceration alternatives, projection model
scenarios, program development, operational philosophy and scenario
development, functional component descriptions, space allocations,
staffing and operational cost models,and a comprehensive report of
findings and recommendations.
The study scope accounts for the involvement of the project stakeholders
including the County Sheriff, Jail Administrator, County Commissioners,
County Administration, Local Law Enforcement Agencies, Judiciary/Court
Administration, County Attorney, Public Defender,and Union County
Health & Human Services.
The Facilities and Fleet Management Department partnered with the
Procurement Department to issue Request for Qualifications No.
2024-043, Architectural Services, Union County Jail Project. On
November 30, 2023, three (3) qualifications packages were received and
reviewed by an evaluation team in accordance with applicable evaluation
criteria for this project. The top two (2) firms were invited to shortlist
interview/presentations. As a result, the team requests approval to enter
into a contract with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, Inc. Staff
recommends thatthe Board approve the contract with Little Diversified
Architectural Consulting, Inc., the amount of $126,000.00 to complete a
comprehensive space needs and programming study.
The cost of this contract is $126,000.00. There are sufficient funds in the
UC Jail Alternatives for Expansion and Design capital account, 40080188,
to cover this expense.
24-499 Agreement - Forest Management Practices
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
The County has entered into an agreement with the N.C. Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services for Forest Management practices.
The State provides 60 percent of the funding in the amount of $142,643
and the County pays 40 percent and an additional 16 percent for Forest
Fire Equipment Operator, for the sum of $102,253.00 annually. Per the
agreement, the State is responsible for employing the following positions:
A) 1 County/Area Ranger(s) assigned for the purposes of controlling
forest fires in said County; for detecting and extinguishing fires that break
out, for investigating the origin of forest, woodland, and field fires; for
enforcing the State’s Forest fire laws; for taking such preventive
measures, educational and otherwise, to prevent forest fires; for
developing and improving the forests through reforestation, promotion,
and practice of Forest Management practices; and for theprotection of
forests from insects and diseases.
B) 1 Assistant County Ranger(s) for the purposes of assisting under the
direction, supervision, and/or oversight of the County/Area Ranger in
controlling forest fires in said County, for detecting and extinguishing fires
that break out; for investigating the origin of forest, woodland, and field
fires; for enforcing the State’s Forest fire laws; for taking such preventive
measures, educational and otherwise, to prevent forest fires; for
developing and improving the forests through reforestation, promotion,
forests from insects and diseases.
C) 0.11 Forestry Management Clerk for purposes of providing
administrative support, serving as the back-up administrative contact for
the assigned district, counties within the district, or unit, and serving as
the primary contact for forest management administrative business within
the assigned district.
D) 0.16 Forest Fire Equipment Operator(s) for thepurposes of establishing
fire suppression control lines in assigned work areas and in other areas
as needed using equipment, including crawler tractors (fire dozers), with
various attachments, such as a fire plow, hurricane blades, etc., and
operate and maintain all types of heavy site preparation equipment.
E) Temporary position(s) on an as-needed basis.
The County's share of the agreement ($102,253.00) is included in the FY
2024-2025 budget.
24-503Revised FY2025 Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG)
for Older Adults
ACTION:Approved the revised FY25 Home and Community Block Grant (HCCBG)Funding Plan for Union County.
On June 17, 2024, the BOCC authorized the County Manager to approve
the FY25 HCCBG contract with Centralina for $1,299,135, which includes
$1,148,163 in block grant funding, a required local match of $127,572,
and $23,400 NSIP (USDA) subsidy based on reimbursement of $0.80 per
eligible Senior Nutrition meal. The final Federal and State budgets were
approved after this Board action, resulting in a budget increase of $8,012
($7,211 of HCCBG and $801 local match) beyond what the BOCC
approved at its June 17th meeting.
The BOCC appointed HCCBG Advisory Committee voted to recommend
these additional funds be split equally between the County’s Human
Services Agency, the Council on Aging, and the City of Monroe’s
Bazemore Active Adult Center.
Attached is an amended FY25 HCCBG funding plan. The total FY25
Adopted Budget Ordinance was slightly larger than the original FY25
funding plan based on expected increases from FY24, therefore, no
budget amendment is needed to appropriate the amended funding plan
to proper revenue and expenditure accounts.
$7,211 increase in estimated HCCBG grant revenue. Additional local matching funds will be covered by eligible funding sources in the County’s
FY25 Adopted Budget for the Human Services Agency and Council on
Aging portion, and in the City of Monroe’s FY2025 budget for the
Bazemore Center portion.
24-515Budget Amendment - Additional Funding for Clinical Capacity
Building
ACTION:1) Recognized, received, and appropriated $23,125.50 in additional fundingfrom Community Care of North Carolina, Inc.,m (CCNC) and 2) approvedBudget Amendment #3.
The Union County Public Health Department has been provided with a
Capacity Building Grant Award in the amount of $23,125.50 from
Community Care of North Carolina, Inc. (CCNC). The purpose of this
funding is to further CCNC’s mission to improve the health and quality of
life of all North Carolinians by building and supporting better
community-based health care delivery systems. The funding will be used
by the Health Department to support immunization clinics, interpreting
support for public health clinics, medical provider electronic prescribing
capacity and other medical supplies/materials. This one-time funding
covers one year through June 2025.
Union County is awarded $23,125.50 from Community Care of North
Carolina, Inc., with no County match required.
24-539 Contract - Child Support Enforcement
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
DSS is statutorily responsible for providing child support enforcement
services. Union County DSS uses Veritas HHS, LLC to meet this
requirement. Veritas has been an excellent partner in providing child
support enforcement services for our county.
The Procurement Department partnered with the Union County Department
of Social Services to issue a Request for Proposal 2024-069 Child
Support Enforcement Services. On April 17, 2024, two proposals were
received and reviewed by an evaluation team in accordance with
applicable evaluation criteria for this project. As a result, the team
requests approval to enter into a contract with the top-scoring/ranked
preferred offeror, Veritas HHS, LLC to provide Child Support Enforcement
service(s). This contract has an initial term of three years with two,
one-year renewal options at the sole discretion of the County and is
subject to annual budget appropriation.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $1,217,086. Since this
contract contains an initial term of three years with two one-year renewal
options, a total of $6,085,430 is estimated to be spent. Funding is
available in the adopted FY2025 budget appropriation with, future
expenditures subject to annual BOCC budget appropriation.
24-541 Contract Renewal - Interpreting Services
ACTION:Authorize the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
Language interpreter services are a necessary component of the work of
the Human Services Agency and supports our compliance with Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Agency utilizes services from AMN
Healthcare Language services to provide on-demand video remote
interpreting (VRI) for American Sign Language (ASL) and selected
spoken languages, as well as over-the-phone interpreting (OPI) for
selected languages with live language interpreters. We are seeking
approval to continue the services under this contract.
The Department of Public Health has utilized the contractual services of
AMN Healthcare Language Services for healthcare language services
since January 2017. AMN Healthcare Language Services has been
effective and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are
requesting to continue this service for an additional one-year term.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $150,000.00 and is
budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-550 Grant Application - N.C. Dental Society Foundation
ACTION:1) Approved Public Health’s request to apply for N.C. Dental Society
Foundation funding, 2) upon award of the funding, authorize the County
Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent
with this agenda item, and 3) upon receipt of thegrant award, recognize,
receive, and appropriate the awarded amount to Public Health’s budget.
The N.C. Dental Society Foundation is accepting applications for funding
for a Dental Public Health Award of $1,500 and an Endowment Grant of
$5,000 to further meet oral health needs in North Carolina. Both awards
are considered through a single application process. The Human
Services Agency’s Public Health Dental Clinic requests approval to apply
for these funds to support the provision of dental care services for
patients who have financial challenges andreceive necessary care. The
deadline for submitting an application is August 16, 2024.
The County’s Dental Clinic provides general dentistry services and
education to residents who may have difficulty obtaining dental care due
to financial needs or access to other providers. The clinic provides
services for adults and children beginning at 1 year of age. The clinic
accepts Medicaid, third-party insurance, and private pay on a sliding-fee
scale based on income. In FY2024, the clinic had 3,278 patient visits;
61per cent % were uninsured/private pay.
Anticipated funding will be $1,500 or $5,000 depending on the award.
selection approval. No County match is required.
24-563Bid Award - Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder and authorized award of the contract to PlaycoreWisconsin Inc. dba GameTime in the amount of $802,393.53, 2)
authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement
substantially consistent with this agenda item, and 3) adopt aresolution
providing notice of construction for the Jesse Helms Park Playground
Equipment project.
Union County Parks & Recreation staff completed a Master Plan for
Jesse Helms Park in 2023. A section of the Master Plan recommends
continued development of play areas for the guests of the facility. Staff
determined the need for additional play structures at the facility and
located the space required for this project. This project will be considered
a destination playground for Union County Parks & Recreation and will
provide more recreational opportunities for more residents of Union
County.
On April 30, 2024, the Procurement and Contract Management
Department partnered with Parks & Recreation to issue an Invitation for
Bid IFB 2024-071 Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment. On July 9,
2024, two (2) bids for the title project were received. Since a minimum of
three bids were not received; the project was readvertised. On July 19,
2024, two (2) bids were received and processed for the title project. All
bids were tabulated, reviewed, and certified by Parks & Recreation. The
bids ranged from $802,393.53 to $1,010,229.07. Staff recommends that
the project be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder,
Playcore Wisconsin Inc. dba GameTime, in the amount of $802,393.53.
Funding is available within the adopted FY 2025 Budget to support the
construction contract amount of $802,393.53.The Bids received are as follows:Playcore Wisconsin, Inc. d/b/a Game Time$802,393.53Great Southern Recreation, LLC
$1,010,299.07
RESOLUTION OF THE UNION COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROVIDING NOTICE OF JESSE HELMS PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT
PROJECT CONSTRUCTION
WHEREAS, pursuant to G.S § 153A‐457, a county shall notify property owners and adjacent property owners prior to commencement of any construction project by the county; and
WHEREAS, G.S. § 153A‐457 provides that notice of a county construction project is deemed sufficient if notice of the construction project is given in any open meeting of the county prior
to the commencement of the construction project; and
WHEREAS, the Union County Board of Commissioners desires to give notice of construction of the Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment prior to commencement of project construction as
required by G.S. § 153A‐457.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE Union County Board of Commissioners that:
1. Union County may commence construction of the Jesse Helms Park Playground
Equipment on property as shown on the attached map after the award date of the construction contract for the project.
2. This resolution and notice isare adopted in accordance with the construction notice requirements of G.S. § 153A‐457.
Adopted this the 12th day of August, 2024.
Attest:
s/Lynn West s/J.R. Rowell
Clerk to the Board Chair Union County Board of Commissioners
24-536Purchase - Compactors for New Austin Chaney Waste & Recycling
Site
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
4 self-contained compactors for waste and recycling materials at the new
Austin Chaney Waste & Recycling Site.
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of the 4 compactors will be made using a Group Purchasing
Program, Sourcewell Contract #040621-MEC as quoted by Becker
Complete, LLC. The Procurement Department has vetted this contract
and the purchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the 4 compactors is $137,528.00 and is budgeted
accordingly for FY2025.
24-537 Purchase - Compactor Wheels
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
(4) 826K compactor paddle tip wrap wheels. The compactor is a vital
piece of equipment used at our construction and demolition landfill.
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of the 4 826K compactor paddle tip wrap wheels will be made
using Group Purchasing Program, Sourcewell contract #011723-CAT as
quoted by Carolina CAT. The Procurement Department has vetted this
contract and thepurchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the 4 - 826K Compactor wheels is $64,557.20
and is budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-519Compensation Adjustment for the Register of Deeds
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to take such action as necessary to
provide an increase in compensation of $3,780 to the Register of Deeds,
retroactive to June 29, 2024.
Pursuant to G.S.153A-92(a), the Board of Commissioners shall fix or
approve the schedule of pay, expense allowance and other compensation
of all county officers and employees, whether elected or appointed. Any
increase in the compensation of elected officials (Register of Deeds) is
done so at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners.
No additional funding required. Sufficient funding is included in the
FY2025 budget.
24-566Code Enforcement Legal Services Additional Position Request and
Position Renaming in County Attorney’s Office
ACTION:1) Authorized the addition of two FTEs (full-time equivalency) in the CountyAttorney’s Office for the following job classifications:
· 1 Assistant County Attorney
· 1 Paralegal;
2) Update the Pay and Classification plan to include new job
classifications as follows:
· Senior Assistant County Attorney - Pay Grade S
· Assistant County Attorney - Pay Grade Q;
3) Update the Pay and Classification plan to remove the following job
classifications:
· Senior Staff Attorney - Pay Grade S
· Staff Attorney - Pay Grade Q; and
4) Adopt Special Revenue Ordinance 94E and Budget Amendment 4.
For litigation related to enforcement of Building Code, Zoning/Planning,
Environmental Health, and solid waste code violations, the County has
historically contracted with outside counsel to provide such legal services.
However, due to the increasing volume of enforcement cases and time
needed to address these issues, bringing these enforcement litigation
services in-house will provide overall benefit to the County and reduce
costs. This change will provide improved budget stability, increased
efficiency, and strengthened communication and collaboration
opportunities. The monetary savings yielded by shifting away from the
contract legal services model will fully fund the new positions, allow for
significantly decreased hourly legal service costs, and increase the
County’s ability to meet the increasing volume of enforcement cases in a
cost-effective manner.
The positions will be funded through ARPA Investment Earnings in FY25.
In future fiscal years, the positions will be funded through inspections
department fees and projected reduction in expenses for contracted
outside counsel. The positions will be filled, trained, and deployed as
soon as practicable while taking into account department and service
transition needs. No new funding is required for these positions and is
projected to reduce overall expenses.
Additionally, to conform the titles of attorneys in the County Attorney’s
office with that of the County Attorney and to allow proactive resolution of
questions on court pleadings, settlement documents, and external
negotiations, this item also clarifies that the title and authority of internal
legal counsel for the County. These positions will be revised from “Staff
Attorney” and “Senior Staff Attorney” to “Assistant County Attorney” and
“Senior Assistant County Attorney,” respectively.
The County will also make corresponding revisions to existing external
and internal communications to provide greater consistency and public
clarity.
No new funding required. Existing funding in ARPA Investment Earnings
has been identified within the FY25 budget for this request.
24-524 June 2024 NCVTS Motor Vehicle Tax ReportACTION:ApprovedJune 2024 NCVTS Motor Vehicle Tax Refund Report.
The refunds included in this report represent adjustments made to tax
bills that resulted in refunds of motor vehicle taxes paid under the Tax
and Tag Together program operated jointly between the counties and the
State.
24-553Annual Tax Settlement FY 2023-2024
ACTION:Approved the reports of 2023 delinquent taxpayers and annual settlementas requested.
North Carolina General Statutes require Tax Collectors to make several
reports to the governing body after the close of the fiscal year.
The first report is a list of real property taxpayers whose taxes are unpaid
and for which the unpaid taxes are secured by a lien against their real
property. The reports related to real property taxes are on the advertising list
often seen in the newspaper, modified by the deletion of property owners
who have paid their taxes between the advertising date and the date of
the settlement report.
The second report is a list of those outstanding taxes that are not secured
by liens against real property. These taxes are assessed against personal
property owned by persons who owned no real property at the time the
personal property was listed and are on file in the County Clerk’s Office.
The third report is the annual settlement. North Carolina General Statutes
require the Tax Collector to make such a report after July 1st, but before
the collector is charged with the collections of taxes for the current year.
The form of the settlement reflects various charges (initial billing,
discoveries, late listing, interest, etc.) and credits (sums deposited,
releases, etc.) The charges and credits are required to balance. The
Union County Finance Division independently confirms the accuracy of
the report.
For the fiscal year ending June 28,2024, the unaudited overall collection
rate on all County property taxes was 99.88%.
See Exhibit “A” attached hereto.
24-556 Write Off of 2014 Uncollected Fire Fees
ACTION:Approved the write-off for the 2014 uncollected fire fees as requested.
Under NCGS 105-378, property taxes and certain fees associated with
those taxes are no longer eligible for enforced collection remedies after
10 years. In deference to this statute, the Tax Collector requests on an
annual basis that all taxes and fees older than 10 years be approved for
write off by the Board of Commissioners.
24-558 Order of Collection Tax Charge for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
ACTION:Approved the Order of Collection Tax Charge for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
NCGS 105-321 requires the governing board of each taxing unit to issue
an order of collection to Tax Collectors at the time the receipts are
delivered to them. This order constitutes the collector's authority to collect
taxes and to exercise the various powers incident to the collection
process. The order gives rise to a specific lien on the real estate listed on
the books, plus the power to levy upon or attach any of the taxpayer's
personal property. Failure to issue the order of collection may invalidate
the tax collector's remedies for enforced collection. The order of collection
does not include public service companies or motor vehicles. Those
property classifications are either billed monthly or based on information
provided separately by the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
24-559FY2023-24 Tax Bill Correction Report for June 2024
ACTION:
In accordance with North Carolina General Statutes 102-312 and
105-325, the Board of County Commissioners is authorized to make and
approve certain changes to property tax records. Approval of such
changes may result in either a release, refund, or discovery of ad valorem
taxes. The attached report provides detailed information on all tax bills
that were modified. Included in the report for each correction is the parcel
number or property key, owner name, reason for the change, original
value, original tax, corrected value, corrected tax, and refund, if
applicable.June Refund amount = $2,903.63
24-529 Resolution - Surplus Vehicle Sale
ACTION:Adopted Resolution Authorizing Surplus Property Sale by Internet Auction,which 1) declares the property itemized on Attachment A as “Surplus” tothe needs of Union County, 2) authorizes
thesale at electronic auction of the
surplus property described in Attachment A,as per the terms and
conditions as specified in the online auction service provider contract, and
3) authorizes the Procurement Director or her designee to execute any
and all documents necessary to transfer title to said property on behalf of
Union County.
North Carolina General Statutes allow the disposition of personal property
by local governments through a variety of means including private
negotiations and sale; advertisement for sealed bids; negotiated offer,
advertisement, and upset bid; public auction; or exchange. In 2001, the
legislature amended the Statutes to provide for disposition of property
through electronic auction.
The sale will begin August 13, 2024, at 9:00 AM and end August 23,
2024, with incremental closings as indicated on Attachment A.
The vehicles are to be picked up at 610 Patton Avenue, Monroe, NC, with
the following terms of sale:
Sale to the highest bidder with all sales final.
2. All items sold “as is” with no warranty, expressed or implied, which
extends beyond the description of the item.
3. Purchasers must remove vehicles(s) within ten (10) business days
from the time and date of issuance of the Buyer’s Certificate.
4. Payment must be made online though the online auction website.
Payment in full is due not later than five (5) business days from the time
and date of the Buyers Certificate. Payment will not be accepted onsite.
Estimated revenue is $40,000. The revenue will be returned to the fund
from which the asset came.
24-540 Contract Renewal - EA Software Subscription Service
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
As part of the County's commitment to enhancing productivity and
ensuring our team has access to the latest tools, we propose the renewal
of our annual Microsoft 365 subscription. This subscription provides
essential services such as email, cloud storage, and collaborative
software, which is integral to the County's daily operations. In addition to
the renewal of UC Water is purchasing 25 G5 licenses. Planning and
Resource Management will be using these additional licensing licensesfor bothmigration of current dashboards to county instances, and continued
development of their organizational visualization, including Operational
Metrics, Engineering Program Dashboards, and AMI Analysis. The
elevated licensing will also aid in further development opportunities for
better data management, data assurance, and workflow development.
The Information Technology Department has utilized the contractual
services of SHI International for its Microsoft EA since July 2017. SHI
International has been effective and efficient in meeting our service
needs, and we are requesting to continue this service for an additional 12
months.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $741,727.03 and is
budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-545 Contract Renewal - Fleet Management Software
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
Fleet is seeking to extend the Hiperweb Fleet Management Software
Agreement for one year provided by PSD Software. The cost for the
one-year agreement will be $11,521.65. Hiperweb Fleet Management is
provided by PSD Software LLC.
The Facilities and Fleet Management Department has utilized the
contractual services of PSD Software LLC for Fleet Management
Software since August 13, 2014. PSD Software LLC has been effective
and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are requesting to
continue this service for an additional one-year.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $11,521,65 and is budgeted
Aaccordinglyaccordingly, for FY2025.
24-551Union County Public Schools (UCPS) Forest Hills High and East
Elementary 2023 Bond Premiums and Investment Earnings Project
Request
ACTION:Adopted Capital Project Ordinance #321B
At the UCPS Board of Education (BOE) meeting on July 9th, 2024, the
BOE approved a request to the Board of County Commissioners to use
bond premiums and bond investment earnings generated from the 2023
School GO Bonds (2023 Bonds) for projects at Forest Hills High School
and East ElementatryElementary School.
Bond premiums and investment earnings generated on the 2023 Bonds
are restricted for only projects located at Forest Hills High School and
East Elementary School as outlined in the Bond Order adopted for the
2022 Bond Referendum.
No additional financial impact. Funding is available from bond premiums
in the amount of $12,175,000 and bond investment earnings of
$2,452,000.
Information Only
24-523 Tax Collector’s Departmental Report for June 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information Only.
This report reflects the totals of all tax transactions within the Tax
Collector’s Office for the month of June 2024 as required by NCGS
105-350(7).
24-526Human Resources Reports for June 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
These reports include all new hires, separations from service, and
retirements for Union County Local Government for the month of June
2024.
24-527 Tax Refunds, Releases and Prorations Approved by Finance Officer
ACTION: No action requested. Information only.
On September 8, 2020, the Board of Commissioners adopted a
Resolution Delegating Authority for Tax Releases and Refunds of less
than $100 to Union County's Finance Officer. The resolution and NC GS
105-381(b) require such refunds to be reported to the Board regarding
actions taken on requests for releases or refunds. All such actions shall
be recorded in the Board's minutes. NC GS 105-330.6 authorizes the tax
collector to direct an order for a tax refund of prorated taxes to the county
finance officer related to surrendering of registered motor vehicle plates.
The finance officer shall issue a refund to the vehicle owner. The
attached report is for June 2024 NCVTS releases and refunds less than
$100 and prorations approved by the finance officer.
*See Exhibit “A” attached hereto and made a part of these minutes.
24-528Contract Report April - June 2024
ACTION: No action requested. Information only.
Per Section XVIII of the FY 2024 adopted Operating and Capital BudgetOrdinance, the contract report lists executed contracts and purchase
orders that were entered into by the County Manager or Procurement
designee from April through June 2024.
*See Exhibit “B” attached hereto and made a part of these minutes.
24-547 Monthly Update - Wastewater Treatment Capacity
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
Union County Water is closely monitoring the wastewater treatment
capacities at our Water Reclamation Facilities. Permitting Capacity is
evaluated using the Actual Plant Flows plus the Permitted/Obligated
Flows (unconnected). Union County Water was asked to provide regular
updates. Plant flow information through June 2024 is summarized in the
attached table.
Twelve Mile Creek
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) =6.668
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 88.9%
Crooked Creek
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 1.637
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 86.1%
Olde Sycamore
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.046
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 30.7%
Tallwood
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.022
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 44.0%
Grassy Branch
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.046
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 92.0%
In addition to the wastewater treatment capacities, flow volumes
associated with development projects that are in the planning and review
process within the Twelve Mile Creek and Crooked Creek WRF service
areas are provided for information as well. Development flow volumes
through June 2024 are summarized in the tables below.
24-552 Union County Emergency Medical Services (UC EMS) Financial
Statements for FY 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
The UC EMS Financial Statements and Supplementary Information
includes statements for the year ending 2024.The statements and schedules
are prepared on a modified accrual basis. The submittal of the UC EMS
Financial Statements isare in accordance with the UC EMS agreement.
Business
24-549 Renaming the Board’s Conference Meeting Room
Chairman Rowell recognized Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms to present this item.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that August 8th marked one year since the passing of Commissioner Rushing. He mentioned that Commissioner Merrell, himself, and others in Union County
had discussed the idea of renaming the meeting room for nearly a year. He said he believed it was fitting to bring the item up for consideration at this meeting
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms reflected that just over a year ago, Union County lost a great commissioner, Stony Rushing. He stated that Commissioner Rushing was elected four times, with
his first term being from December 2, 2002, to December 4, 2006, during which he served as Vice Chair in his first year. After stepping away from politics, Commissioner Rushing returned
to serve a second term from December 1, 2014, to December 3, 2018, holding the roles of Vice Chair in 2014 and Chair in 2015. He said that Commissioner Rushing was re-elected for two
moreadditional terms, in 2018 and again in 2022, when he served as Chair from December 2022 until his passing.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that had Commissioner Stony Rushing lived to complete his last term, he would have been the second-longest tenured Commissioner in Union County’s
history. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms shared that Commissioner Rushing was always proud to represent Union County as a commissioner, dedicating much of his life to serving its residents,
but it wasnot just the county that lost something when he passed; we all did. Vice Chairman Helms noted that Commissioner Rushing’s wife, Anne-Marie, lost a husband; his children, Riley
and Reagan, lost their father; and his father, Rocky, lost a son. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms concluded that he, along with others on the Board, lost a friend, a mentor, and a brother.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms remembered Commissioner Stony Rushing as a true champion for the people of Union County who inspired many. He noted that Commissioner Rushing touched the
lives of all of us. He stated that not everyone always agreed with Commissioner Rushing and everything that he said, but that did not bother Commissioner Rushing at all. He said he
had a passion for this county, and he remained committed to his convictions and his passion for the county.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms pointed outhighlighted Commissioner Rushing’s legacy, stating that the work that he started has not stopped and that as long as there are people still willing
to fight for the values that are important to Union County, Commissioner Rushing will live on. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms expressed his hope that renaming the conference room asthe
Commissioner Stony D. Rushing Boardroom will serve as a reminder to all current commissioners and future commissioners to serve with the same passion and love for the people as did Commissioner
Rushing.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms thanked Anne-Marie, Rocky, and the Rushing family for their support, recognizing the sacrifices they made. He moved to adopta resolution naming the Union
County Board ofCommissioners’ conference meeting room the Commissioner Stony D. Rushing Boardroom.
Chairman Rowell asked if there wasis discussion on the motion and expressed his gratitude to the Rushing family for its support, recognizing the sacrifices made for Commissioner Rushing’s
long service on the Board. He expressed that while renaming the room wouldnot bring Commissioner Rushing back, his memory would live on, with future generations remembering him when
meeting in the room.
Commissioner Baucom shared his personal connection withCommissioner Rushing,saying that Commissioner Rushing was his younger first cousin, and expressed his support for the motion. Commissioner
Baucom shared that he admiredCommissioner Rushing’s determination and was impressed by his ability to stand and represent what he believed in, even when it sometimes left him in positions
where he stood alone. Commissioner Baucom concluded by saying he appreciated what Commissioner Rushinghas done for the county and would definitely support the motion.
Commissioner Merrell said that she believed that renaming the boardroom is the right and appropriate thing to do for someone who has selflessly and under many attacks and criticismsnever
wavered once in his passion infor serving Union County. She recalled meeting Commissioner Rushing in 2014 when he came out of political retirement to run again, describing him as a
champion for Union County who encouraged others to get on the bus and get to work for “Sweet Union.” She clarified that, while a lot ofmany people think that she and Commissioner Rushing
agreed on everything, they did not agree on everything. She said they always had respect for each other and worked together for the good of the county. Commissioner Merrell expressed
that despite the loss of one of the best friends that she has ever had, it was a great honor to be able to vote and support this tonight.
Following the discussion, the motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-543 Consider a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant for
BFS Operations LLC dba Builders FirstSource (Project TEMPER) in
an Amount not to Exceed $104,500 over a Five-Year Period
Chairman Rowell recognized Ron Mahl to present this item.
Mr. Mahl offered that both he and Mr. Greene were available to answer any questions regarding the item.
Commissioner Merrell asked about the company’s operations in Union County.
Mr. Mahl responded that the company operates two locations in Monroe and one in Indian Trail.
Commissioner Merrell asked Mr. Mahle if he knew of any environmental concerns, penalties, or violations at the three Union County locations over the past 25 years.
Mr. Mahl responded that he was not aware of any environmental concerns in these locations.
Commissioner Merrell asked if BFS Operations, LLC, would be opening a new location or operating in an existing location that has never had an environmental concern.
Ron Mahl confirmed that BFS Operations, LLC, will be adding equipment to an existing location, and to his knowledge, there have never been any issues.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to 1) award a STEP 2 Economic Development incentive grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500 over a five-year period and 2) authorize the county manager
to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The motion passed with a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-518 Rezoning Petition CZ-2023-002 VL Properties
Chairman Rowell recognized Bjorn Hansen, Senior Planner, to address the item.
Mr. Hansenstated that this is the decision portion of the proposed rezoning for CZ 2023-002 VL Properties. He reminded the board that a public hearing was conducted in July regarding
the rezoning of approximately three acres off NC 218 to amend the conditions associated with a previous rezoning, allowing for the development of a countertop fabrication facility and
showroom. He noted that during the public hearing, several members of the public spoke against the proposal, raising concerns about runoff, groundwater contamination, and noise. Mr.
Hansen clarified that there was an error in his earlier presentation about the background of the rezoning. He initially believed it was related to an existing legal non-conforming use,
but it was actually a rezoning request from a business in Lancaster County wantingthat wanted to relocate to this site.
Mr. Hansen said that the applicant and its contractor, who developed the site plan, are present to answer any questions.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed that while he didnot have a specific question, he shared some concerns raised by residents at the previous meeting, which included noise, stormwater
runoff, traffic, and groundwater infiltration. He stated there was an additional concern regarding a pond thatwashadbeen filled in on the property, which is the proposed location for
the building. He noted that he was aware of nearby properties where similar site work had been done,resulting and had resultedin foundational and structural problems.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms also expressed concern about truck traffic, noting that the proposal indicated 20 percent of the traffic would be truck traffic. He pointed out that trucks
would be entering and leaving the location to pick up countertops, and the site is near the roundabout on NC 218. He also mentioned that the County’s Land Use Plan identifies the area
as rural residential. He said while he was all for business and economic growth in Union County, he personally did not believe this was the right location for this particular business.
Chairman Rowell asked if there were any further discussions or questions for Mr. Hansen.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to (i) deny rezoning petition CZ-2023-002 submitted by CESI CGS to rezone the property appearing on the Tax Map as parcel 08-036-025B in the Goose Creek
Township from B-4 with conditions to B-4 with Modified Conditions, and (ii) adopt the consistency and reasonableness statement for denial.
CONSISTENCY AND REASONABLENESS STATEMENT FOR DENIAL OF THE
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (THE PROPOSAL IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE
CURRENT PLAN) (CZ-2023-002)
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 160D-605, the Union County Board of Commissioners (the “Board”)does hereby find and determine that this rezoning petition is inconsistent with the Union CountyComprehensive
Plan (the “Plan”) and that denial of the proposed map amendment is reasonableand in the public interest because:
1. The proposed land use is inconsistent with the Plan, as the subject property is approximately one mile from an identified commercial node in the adopted Plan.
2. The proposed land use will generate traffic impacts on nearby transportation system beyond those expected from rural residential land uses recommended in the adopted Plan.
3. The development will reduce increase impervious surface, which can increase the potential for increased stormwater runoff.
The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-502 Board Discussion - Union County Zoning and Development
Standards Pertaining to Lowering Rural Density
Chairman Rowell recognized County Manager Brian Matthews for this item.
Mr. Matthews explained that he and Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms had spokenpreviously, and the Vice Chair brought up a desire to discuss with the Board the opportunity to gather more
information on how the County may address land use and development within the county, specifically in areas that are more rural in nature. He added that Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms
had expressed an interest in discussion wanting to have a conversationabout how the Board could potentially reduce the amount of density in those areas, and he invited Vice Chairman
Brian W. Helms to describe the matter in greater detail.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms expressed appreciation to the County Manager and shared that,frombased on his firsthand experience, that the Commissioners have received emails and phone
calls from residents of this County with concerns about density and growth, and these issues certainly affect everyone.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms emphasized that as representatives of the people, the Board cannot ignore the concerns of the residents. ,' concerns. He highlighted the costs associated
with growth, including water and sewer infrastructure, law enforcement, EMS, fire departments, and the need for a new jail, which was recently addressed in the consent agenda for a study.
He attributed these challenges partly to rapid residential growth and increasing densities in unincorporated Union County.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that Union County doesnot have unlimited funds to cover the costs associated with growth, emphasizing that the county’s funds come from taxpayers
and ratepayers. He noted that Union County sits atis 90 percent residential and 10 percent everything else and stated that thetrajectory is simply not sustainable. Vice Chairman Helms
also highlighted the importance of agriculture to the county, pointing outnotingthat farmers are expressing concerns about diminishing farmland.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms emphasized that zoning and land use are within the Board’s authority of theBoard, and it is about being good stewards to preserve the character of our great
County. He explained that the objective really isnot to stop growth, because there has to besome growthis inevitable, and growth can never stop entirely, but rather to better manage
the County’s zoning and development standards to lower density. He added it has to be growth that the County needs, and it has to be growth that preserves the rural character of the
County. Vice Chairman Helms pointed out that neighboring counties and municipalities have adopted strategies to mitigate increasing density, and he expressed interest in exploring similar
options.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms said that he would recommend, if his colleagues agree,d to formally direct staff to bring back three to five options for the Board to consider that would
potentially reduce the density in the county. He stated that the Board could consider what is rightfor the County from those options and what would be the best fit. He added that the
Boardcan debate what the best strategy would be to lower the rural density. He said he believed that the worst thing that the Board could do at this point is to do nothing.
Chairman Rowell asked County Manager Brian Matthews to if he couldbring back the requested options for reducing density in the county.
Mr. Matthews confirmed that he could bring the requested options back to the board, but asked for a definitive timeframe to complete the research and ensure they could meet the deadline.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms asked Mr. Matthews what a realistic timeframe would be for completing the research and bringing the options back to the Board.
Mr. Matthews stated that he believedstaff could bring back options to the Board within 60 days or less, adding that while the Board could review the options at that time, further discussion
and decisions could follow.
Commissioner Baucom expressed his appreciation for the discussion, mentioning his background growing up inas part of a farm family and is now running a nursery. He acknowledged both
sides of the issue, noting that while he profits from construction to a degree, growth remains the top concern for many in the community. He highlighted the disappearing farmland as
a major concern, particularly in the eastern part of the county, and called the move to address density a responsible step.
Commissioner Merrell expressed agreement with Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms, stating that this conversation and challenge have been faced by previous boards. She noted it is one thing
to continue discussing to talk aboutthe challenge, and she thought it was another thing to make the motion to start gettinggatheringinformation on how to fix the problem. She fully supported
the move action to gather more information.,sayingshe supported this completely. She stated it is time to decide how to get a hold of this instead of just talking about the problem,andfinding
some solutions.
Chairman Rowell acknowledged the actions already taken regarding farmland concerns, adding, however, that more information is always beneficial, better,and stated that said he was certainly
open to having more information.
Mr. Matthews affirmed the importance of the issue and stated that staff recognizesthis is an important issue. He pointed out that as part of the Board adopted comprehensive plan,that
theBoard adopted some time ago,staff is currently developing in the middle of puttingtogether a rural land use plan. He added that he doesnot mean that these cannot run concurrently.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms moved to formally direct staff to provide bring back information to the Board of Commissioners regarding zoning and development standards pertaining to lower
rural density within a 60-day time frame.
The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chairman Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-525 2025 Reappraisal Status Update
Chairman Rowell recognized Vann Harrell, Tax Administrator, concerning this item.
Mr. Harrellprovided an update on the 2025 reappraisal. He mentioned that they provided basic information during the budget workshop in the spring,and now they are getting closer to nearing
the end of the project. He said that he would review some of the same information that was provided in the spring,but with moreadditionalupdated information regarding some of the numbers.
Mr. Vann Harrell introduced Michael Thompson as the new Deputy Tax Administrator. He said that Robin Merryis retiring after 20 years with the county. He said Mr. Thompson is from Loudoun
County, Virginia, and has experience in several states, including Indiana and Texas.
He outlined four core concepts that guide the Tax Office’s work. Mr. Harrell emphasized the importance of treating taxpayers fairly and equitably, whether they are residential, business,
or industrial. He stated the need for compliance with North Carolina General Statutes, ensuring that all processes are in line with state law. Mr. Harrell noted that the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC) adopted a reappraisal cycle in 2021 to transition to a four-year cycle, aiming to alleviate significant increases in future reappraisals. He stressed the necessity
of adhering to industry standards and best practices, as promulgated by the Department of Revenue and the International Association of Assessing Officers.
Mr. Harrell explained that a reappraisal is essentially a systematic review of all properties in the county from a real estate standpoint. While motor vehicles, personal property, and
business personal property are valued annually, real estate followsis valued by a cycle determined by the General Statutes. He statedthat the office must comply with these statutes,
and the reappraisal process also helps to re-establish equity among taxpayers in the tax base. Mr. Harrell noted that as time passes fromsincethe last reappraisal, the equitable level
of assessment may shift, with some areas being over-assessed and others being under-assessed, and the goal is to re-establish that baseline and ensure that the values are reflective
of the current real estate market. He clarified that they are not projecting where property values will go but are instead adjusting them to match where the market has shifted since
the last reappraisal date.
Mr. Harrell emphasized the importance of avoiding equalization, which isa process the State uses when the County's assessment levels fall below, which happenedoccurred in 2019, 2020,
and 2021. He explained that if this happens, the State changes the values of a group of properties, lowering their assessments. He emphasized that more frequent reappraisals are needed
to avoid this process. He further outlined the timing options for reappraisals, stating that there are three options, with the first being an eight-year cycle, which is the maximum allowed.
He said the second option is a mandatory advancement, which the County has gone through two or three times due to varying growth rates. He stated that if the County’s assessment levels
drop too low, the State steps in and changes the values for public service companies.
Mr. Harrell continued by explaining that the third option for reappraisal is optional advancement, which the Board approved in 2021 to move the county to a four-year cycle. He presented
the timeline, which has not changed since February, noting that the County submitted its plan to the Department of Revenue in 2023. Mr. Harrell explained that a lot of work will occur
between January 2023 and October 2024. He said the plan is to present the schedule of values, hold a public hearing on it, and then havehold a meeting for its adoption of the schedule
of values. He stated that the effective date of the reappraisal will be January 1, 2025, with notices containing the new property values expected to go out to every property owner in
Union County around the end of February or early March 2025.
Mr. Harrell explained that after the reappraisal notices are sent, the Tax Administration team will return to the Board and other local organizations, including town councils, with an
update in the February/March 2025 timeframe. He added that the estimated deadline for appeals is May 2025.
Mr. Harrell explained that the Board of Equalization and Review will convene, as required by statute, on the first Monday in April. He stated that in a reappraisal year, the appeal
window remains open for 60 days after the board convenes. While the Tax Administration team works on appeals prior to that deadline, taxpayers cannot submit new appeals again for the
restremainder of the calendar year.
He also clarified the concept of the uniform schedule of values, withwhich many most people might not be familiar. Mr. Harrell described it as the office’s "cookbook", a comprehensive
guide or "recipe book" that outlines how different property types are valued, the range of rates for land valuation,andit is an overall arching guideline for the appraisal process.
He explained that this guide serves as a framework for conducting reappraisals and has tomust fit in that box for the next four years.
Mr. Harrell transitioned into the main part of his presentation, focusing on the state of the current market. He statedthat on the effective date of the last reappraisal in 2021, the
County’s sales assessment ratio was 99.86 percent.
He stated the current median sales ratio, which is 65.94percent. Mr. Harrell explained thatit shows that the market the sales prices have gone above the assessed values by that percentage
point in totality across the county.
Mr. Harrell said the County’s median selling price between January 2023 and July 5th of this year was $450,000 per home. He stated that this number,compared to 2021 when the median assessed
value after the reappraisal was $293,000, it the amountis almost a $200,000 increase in the median price of a home.
He stated that the total sales volume for the total number of property transactions between 2021 and July of this year is 30,000 transactions. He explained that there could be multiple
transactions. He cited, for example, that there could be a transaction for the major lot, and there could beindividual transactions for each individual residential lot within that subdivision.
He added that it can also be a factor ofwhen multiple properties sellingare sold multiple times.
Mr. Harrell gave a brief look at the market by property type in Union County, stating, residential median sales price is $450,000, commercial median sales price is $650,000, and industrial
median sales price is just over a million dollars. He said vacant land is selling for approximately $78,000 an acre.
He also reflected on sales volume trends, explaining that the years 2020 and 2021werejustcharacterized by a boom-or-bust mentality for real estate everywhere in the South, but especially
in the Charlotte Metro region. He stated that the number for 2024,is halfway through the year,and itis anticipatedthat itto be will bein line. He stated it has leveled off from a volume
standpoint, and it is anticipatedthat itthe trend will continue for this year.
Mr. Harrell provided a breakdown of volume by jurisdiction within the county. He pointed outthat there are three or four driving municipalities with Waxhaw and Monroe as having the highest
volumes, followed by Indian Trail and Stallings.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked if the data presented included residential, commercial, and industrial properties or just residentialproperties.
Mr. Harrell responded that it was total sales.
He shared the median sales prices by jurisdiction, highlighting that for the first time in Union County, there are two jurisdictions with a median sales price exceeding one over amillion
dollars per property. He noted that this information could also be provided as a handout.
Mr. Harrell stated that the residential sales ratio throughout the county is 65.79 percent, the commercial sales ratio is 61.59 percent, and the industrial sales ratio is just under
41 percent. He explained that the value of industrial properties, which are typically land, has shifted significantly from the reappraisal date.
Mr. Harrell presented the sales ratio by jurisdiction, noting that the data had been shared in February, with some changes since that time. He explained,that the ones highlighted in
yellow have actually come upincreased a little, meaning they have moved closer, indicating that the sales prices that have occurred since February, as they vetted the sales, had shifted
the ratio slightly higher. He pointed out that the areas not highlighted have continued to decrease.
Mr. Harrell discussed the Wingate sales ratio saying,explaining thatit increased almost 20 percent. He clarified that the reason for this increase was a large single-parcel land sale
that occurred in Wingate,withinthe Glen Croft subdivision, where phase two was developed. He explained that the sales for the individual parcels were included in the initial February
study, but were compared with a zero-dollar value for assessment because they were not active lots at that point intime. He explained that these were excluded in the updated data, which
brought the ratio more in line with the rest of the county.
Mr. Harrell reviewed the historical values assessed, starting from FY21, which was the year before the last reappraisal, through the pastmost recent fiscal year. He outlined the total
value of residential, commercial, and industrial properties, along with the amount of property excluded or exempt from taxes, and the net real estate property tax base. Mr. Harrell also
highlighted the breakdown of residential areas compared to commercial and industrial properties within the county.
Mr. Harrell discussed the contributing factors to the changes. He stated, obviously, Union County is in proximity to a large metropolitan area. He said that the Charlotte region is stillremains
one of the higher growth regions in the country, even three years post-COVID impact. He explained that the housing supply and demand arestillis low in Union County, with a lot more demand
typically than the County has, which is keeping the prices up. Mr. Harrell said that there are still supply chain issues, citing a recent story from the Triangle area, where subdivisions
have been built out, people have bought their homes, but they cannot move in because power companies cannot getare unable to connect to the substations.
Mr. Harrell discussed additional factors influencing property values, stating that the cost of construction materials continues to rise,thatwhich contributes to the rising cost of home
sales prices. He stated thatinterest rates are at an all-time high, but they are starting to come down.
Mr. Harrell addressed the public information campaign stating they will hold municipal meetings following this meeting. He said they are working on scheduling to makethe same presentation
atfor every municipality in the county. He added that they would update be updatingtheir webpage with the Public Communications team to focus on the 2025 reappraisal and remove information
from the previous one. Additionally, Mr. Harrell mentioned plans for radio and newspaper interviews, as well as meetings with various civic groups throughout the county.
Mr. Harrell discussed tax relief options, noting that this is a common topic of conversation with taxpayers. He explained that the biggest single benefit from an individual taxpayer
standpoint is the elderly disabled exclusion, and that it is a statutory program for which the County does not set the parameters. Mr. Harrell outlined the current requirements to
qualify for this exclusion: the taxpayer must be the property owner as of January 1st, be a North Carolina resident, and be 65 years of age or totally and permanently disabled. He clarified
that individuals under 65 can qualify if they have a medical disability. Mr. Harrell pointed out that the most common issue is the income limit, which is set at $37,900. He emphasized
that the income limit is based on household income, not individual income, and if the household exceeds this amount, theyit cannot qualify for the exclusion.
Mr. Harrell explained that there is a "marriage penalty" with the elderly and disabled exclusion, similar to what was once referred to in income taxes. He stated,that if both spouses
are drawing Social Security, if they are $100 over this limit, they cannot qualify by Statute. Mr. Harrell noted there have been proposed changes and shared that he is on the State Legislative
Committee for the Collectors and Assessors Associations. He explained they worked for two years to try to get legislation passed to change some of the requirements for the more urban
counties throughout the state. He said there are 12 counties that are primarily targeted.
Mr. Harrell shared that the most fair and equitable solution they have considered is tying the program as a second option to the HUD Social Services income requirements.He explainedthat,
what they were considering was 60 percent of the HUD-established AMI for a one or two-person household, depending on ifwhether it is a single resident or a married couple, or two residents
in the house that arenot married. He noted that for the area, this adjustment would raise the income threshold to just under $42,000 or $48,000, which they believe would bring in at
least 100 or more applicants per year that would qualify. He stated this does erode the tax base, but at the same time, it gives a break to deserving taxpayers.who deserve it a break
on their taxes. Mr. Harrell stated that the kicker on this is they were allowing for the greater of the existing threshold or this threshold, because some rural counties where he came
fromhad previously lived in northeastern North Carolina, if it were raised to $47,800, probably 75 percent of the county would qualify if they are above age 65. He said this would be
a huge hit for those counties, which is that iswhy the reason forthe resistance from the General Assembly.
Mr. Harrell requested the Board to consider adding a modification to this program as part of their legislative agenda. He said they have been asked by the North Carolina Association
of County Commissioners to request that the Boards of County Commissioners request thatthe General Assembly consider a modification to this program.
Mr. Harrell explained that there are other programs available, including the circuit breaker program, which is for those who do not meet the requirements for the elderly and disabled.
He notedthat, the problem with this one is that it is a tax deferment; it is not a tax exemption or exclusion. He said it becomes a lien on the property. He addedthat there are three
homeowners in the county right nowwhotakeare taking advantage of this program.
Mr. Harrell pointed out that while the income limit for the circuit breaker program is significantly higher, many people are reluctant to use it because they donot want to leave that
burden for theirchildren or families in later years.kids or their relatives down the road.
Mr. Harrell explained that disabled veterans who are 100 percent disabled, as declared by the Veterans Administration, qualify for an exclusion of $45,000 on the value of their real
estate property, not the taxes themselves. He notedthat there issome work is being done on this and said he is unsure where the General Assembly is going to come down on this one. He
shared that it has gone from full exemption to 50 percent and back to the$45,000.
He discussed the Present-Use Value (PUV) program. He said outside of the elderly, it affects every taxpayer. He said the PUV is the largest tax benefit program in the county.
Commissioner Merrell expressed her concern regarding the requirements for disabled veterans. She said in her work with veterans outside of this responsibility, some veterans might be
50or 75 percent disabled, but what she had heard Mr. Harrell sayis that they have to be 100 percent disabled.
Mr. Harrell confirmed that Commissioner Merrell's understanding was correct.
Commissioner Merrell asked if there was any current conversation going on in Raleigh other than being required to be 100 percent disabled. She said if a person is 50 or 75 percent disabled,
they are still disabled.
Mr. Harrell responded that he had not heard any conversation directly regarding the required percentageof disability. He said all he has been informed of is the percentage of relief,
whether it is a veteran, 50 or 100 percent. He said it is not aboutdisability, but it is about veteran status.
Commissioner Merrell asked for clarification that they had to be 100 percent disabled.
Mr. Harrell responded that under the current statute, they had to be 100 percent disabled. He added that the conversationsinformation that they havereceivedheardareisthat regardless
of disability status, a veteran would receive some kind of break. He stated that it has not been passed; it has been conversation and proposed by various representatives.
Commissioner Merrell asked Mr. Harrell to keep the Board updated because she is really interested in forthose who have served our country.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms agreed with Commissioner Merrell’s concern and suggested that would be something elsean issue to add to the legislative agenda when the time comes, regarding
disabled veterans.
24-544 Contract - Ice Skating Rink Services
Chairman Rowell recognized Jim Chaffin, Parks and Recreation Director, for this item.
Jim Chaffin statedthat in his25-plusyears of parks and recreation in Union County, he never thought that he would be talking about operating an ice-skating rink in Union County.
He explained that when the ice-skating rink project was handed to Parks and Recreation, he believed as staff they did their due diligence in researching what the opportunity would be,
what it was going to provide, and could it be done with Parks and Recreation staff partnering with a couple of other folks within Union County? He said they believed it could be done.
Mr. Chaffin provided background for the project. He stated that in 2019, the Moser Group, along with Extreme Ice in Indian Trail, collaborated to set up a temporary ice-skating rink
at Sun Valley Commons, behind the Trail House and Sun Valley Café. He saidit was well-received but stopped due to Covid.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the main reason the Moser Group and Extreme Ice approached Union County was becausethat they did not have the staff to operate the ice-skating rink. He mentioned
that the rink would likely operate for 58 days, possibly eight hours each day.
Mr. Chaffin stated that after discussing the proposal with management, procurement, and finance, it was determineddecided to include it in the budget to see what would happen. He noted
that the budget washad been approved, and now the team was further evaluating whether they want to follow through with it. He noted that the funding that was approved covers everything
that would beneeded for the project.
Mr. Chaffin posedaddressed the question of why the ice-skating rink should be pursued. He highlighted that Parks and Recreation’s primary role is to offer recreational opportunities,
and that the rink provides a unique opportunity for residents. He added it would also promotes health and fitness initiatives, as promoted by Parks and Recreation and the health departments.
Additionally, he noted that the rink would be open seven days a week for to enjoy theice-skating.rink.
Mr. Chaffin said that the proposal coversincludes both the inside and outside areas, including the ice itself, such as chillers, refrigeration units, water, lights, Christmas trees,
and decorations.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the primary responsibility for the ice-skating rink project would be the operational aspects. He said that the Parks and Recreation’s outdoor recreation staff
would be responsible for setting the schedule for the staff to run the facility if the Board decides to move forward with the project. He stated that the County would be responsible
for the routine maintenance,such asincluding general daily upkeep and trash can management. He stated that larger maintenance itemswould be covered under the contract with Seasonal
Ice Rinks.
Mr. Chaffin explained that Seasonal Ice Rinks had told them that reservations are important for this particular initiative. He shared that two of his staff members met with their Automated
Business Software team, which uses Rec Track for managing the campground, day area shelters, and other facilities. He said that they could add a module to their current reservation system
to track this as well.
Mr. Chaffin explained that managing the reservations would involve movingrelocating one of their point-of-sales (POS) systems, like the one in the gatehouse, as people enter the area,to
the location of the ice rink. He stated this would allow them to manage the system without incurring any additional costs. He also mentioned working with legal on waiver liability forms
and believes that it will align with the requirements for their outdoor recreation programs and events.
He shared a picture of the location, highlighting Sun Valley Café, and the Trail House, and as well asthe area in front of the movie theater. He explained that the location was chosen
because, in 2019, Seasonal Ice Rinks invested heavily in installing the necessary infrastructure, including electrical and water systems. He noted that the County would be able to utilize
this existing infrastructure without incurring additional costs for infrastructure aspects.
Mr. Chaffin explained that if asked about Cane Creek Parks Campground's earnings, he could provide a close estimate based on historical data. However, this ice-skating rink is new. He
shared that they have based the financials on a best-case scenario of 58 total operational days, with the only days the rink would be closed being Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
He said there would be six skating sessions per day, at one hour each, with a cost of $12 per person, and children three and under would skate for free.
Mr. Chaffin stated that the rink would operateinitially operate with a maximum of 60 people on the ice at one time, and this number could fluctuate. He said the rink's dimensions are
50 feet by 100 feet, but until they see how many people are actually on the ice, they wouldwill not know the exact capacity. He stated that starting with 60 people would equate to about
360 people per day. He emphasized that theweather would impact the program’s success of the program, and if everything went perfectly for all 58 operational days with full ice usage,
the total projected revenue would be $250,560. However, he noted that this is a rough estimate.
Chairman Rowell asked Mr. Chaffin if the contract for the ice-skating rink had an initial term of one year with two one-year renewal options, and if the County could opt out after the
first year if the project did not go well.
Mr. Chaffin confirmed that Chairman Rowell's understanding was correct. He explained that the first year of the contract would cost $185,500, with subsequent years costing $150,000.
He explained the additional costs in the first year would be used to purchase materials needed for the rink. He said thatat the end of the contract, the contractor would store the
materials, andif the County decided to continue the project, the materials could be brought back the following year without incurring any additional costs.
Commissioner Merrell expressed appreciation to Mr. Chaffin for the presentation and acknowledged that this project had been discussed with staff and the Moser group for a year and a
half. She shared that they had hoped to implement it last Christmas, but due to needing to get everything in order, it now looked like it will be ready for this coming Christmas. Commissioner
Merrell stated that when it comes to recreational activities during the off-season, particularly in the fall and winter months, she believed this would be a great opportunity for families
to do something fun together. She shared that when her children were young, they always had to travel to Cabarrus County or Mecklenburg County for similar activities. She expressed her
excitement over the possibility of keeping Union County families in Union County for this activity. Commissioner Merrell confirmed her support for the project.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed that he had many questions. He statedthat he was not opposed to ice skating rinks but noted that certain things in the information packet stuckstood
out to him. He shared his concern about liability and asked who would own the liability if somebodysomeone were to fall and get hurt, or need a hospital visit? He asked if Union County
would be assuming those liabilities.
Mr. Chaffin responded, asking Mr. Kay, the county attorney, to possibly chime in on the liability question. He explained they would be using the standard indemnification form that isutilized
for all of theprograms and events at Cane Creek, Jesse Helms, and Fred Kirby. He added he did not know if thatindemnificationchanges with this particular scenario.
Jason Kay stated that they would trydo everything in their power to put legal documents in place that make certain that the liability for the rink rests with the operator and not with
the County itself.
Mr. Chaffin addressed the Vice Chair to saythat one of Mr. Kay’s staff members had already reviewed the initial contract and given the markups to Seasonal Ice Rinks, and it hasaccepted
all of those terms and conditions.as well.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms stated that he read in the packet that the County would be responsible for security and asked for clarification regarding the type of resources that would be
needed and the type of security that would be used, such as Sheriff’s deputies or hiring private security.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the plan for security plan has not been fully developed,yet and it will depend on whether the project moves forward. He explained that the plan includes using
a more affordable security system, similar to what is currently in place at Fred Kirby Park. He also noted that the Seasonal Ice Rinks and The Moser Group have assured them that there
are plenty of security cameras already installed at the nearby businesses, which would focus on the particular area. He said he did not foresee the County having to incur any more costs
for an outside vendor to provide security.
Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager, explained that when the proposal first came, they had a meeting with the town of Indian Trail, as the project is located within the town. He noted
that they initially saw this as a potential partnership between the town and the county. He mentioned that the town shared similar concerns to the Moser Group but lacked the seasonal
employee pool that the county has in place. Mr. Niland stated that the County is fortunate to have the summer seasonal employees. He added that a substantial number of people have
shown interest in working foron the project. He said that the town had expressed willingness to help promote the initiative and to coordinate efforts. He stated that he believes the
town will assist with security by providing some of the deputies currently assigned to the Indian Trail division.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked ifinquired if the town of Indian Trail had committed any financial resources to making the project a success.
Mr. Niland responded that the Town of Indian Trail has not committed any financial resources to the project, although the Town supports it and wants it to happen in their town.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms stated that after reviewing the financials, he noted that the total investment over the three-year-periods is $485,000. He acknowledged that it could be broken
up into smaller amounts, such as $185,000 or $150,000 for the second year. However, he pointed out that it is the total investment ofis almost half a million dollars. He expressed concern
that amount there is a lot of money and asked if there was any financial modeling from the years prior to COVID.
Mr. Chaffin shared that the only information provided by the Moser Group and Extreme Ice was that they broke even and made a small profit. He mentioned that the City of Rock Hill also
used Seasonal Ice Rinks, though he did not have those numbers available for the meeting. He added that they had reached out to Rock Hill to inquire about their performance last year,
but noted that comparing Union County to the City of Rock Hill’s downtown might not be apples to apples. Mr. Chaffin emphasized that his staff is prepared to do what is necessary to
get the project open and operational, pending the Board's decision.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked about the lease agreement with the Moser Group, seeking clarification on whattheterms of the lease. entails.
Mr. Chaffin confirmed that the lease agreement with the Moser Group is not included, and the amount mentionedto be paid to him for the lease is $1.
Mr. Niland stated that they would have to pay for the electric utilities for theelectricto run the rink, but the Moser Group saidit would give the County the land because they support
having it there. He emphasized that the Moser Group obviously spent a lot of money on the infrastructure. He also mentioned that they had looked atconsidered doing this a few years ago
at the special event center in Wingate, but the infrastructure would have cost several hundred thousand dollars, which, at the time, didnot make any sense. Mr. Niland stated that while
the Moser Group has already invested that money, there would still be some ongoing costs they would need to cover.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked if there would have to be any additional hires to the Parks and Recreation staff.
Mr. Chaffin responded that all the staff members thatwho would be needed are included in the approved budget. He added that they would always have at least one full-time staff member
at the facility. He explained that with eight Rangers on staff, one of themper weekwill be on-siteeach week with the seasonal staff.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helmssaid he has severe reservations because it is about $500,000 for six months, and he stated that he thought about what that half-million dollars could do to Cane
Creek Park or Jesse Helms Park or some of the other facilities. He said he realized that it might generate some revenue, but it is a gamble and a risk.
Commissioner Merrell asked if the $485,000 is for one year or three years.
Mr. Chaffin responded thatit is for three years
Mr. Chaffin explained that the operational period would begin with a training week, the week before Thanksgiving, during which they would be open. He said starting the day after Thanksgiving,
it would be operating running seven days a week except for Christmas Day, all the way through Martin Luther King Day in January, totaling 58 operational days.
Mr. Niland explained that the proposal is being brought forward now because there are long lead-time items that are custom-made, and Extreme Ice has indicated that if it wants to proceed
this year. He noted that if the Board is uncomfortable moving forward at this time, he understands,and action can be delayed and the Board could revisiting the matter in the future,andor
postpone ing the project until next year, asif there is not enough time left to order the materials and complete it this year.
Commissioner Merrell clarified that the $485,000 would be spent over three years, not in one year, and emphasized the high probability of profit based on the limited historical data,
which indicates profitability. She highlighted the chairman's mention of a one-year back-out clause, allowingwhich would allow the Board to exit the agreement without spending the full
$485,000. Commissioner Merrell expressed her belief that it would be an amazing holiday activity for Union County residents, generating opportunities for retail taxes to be collected
in the Sun Valley area by getting families out of the house and into Sun Valley, where there are a lot ofnumerous opportunities for eating out and going to the movies. She said she would
be supporting this project to keep things in Union County so that families donot have to travel to another county.
Mr. Chaffin said it is $185,000 in the first year and $150,000 for the additional two years.
Commissioner Baucom asked, if thereisare other hidden costs beyond that $185,000?
Mr. Niland responded the only additional cost would be paying the seasonal staff.
Mr. Chaffin clarified that it is already in the budget, and he would not be coming to the Board for additional funds for payment of theto pay seasonal staff.
Commissioner Merrell moved to authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item, exercise any renewal or extension term
options set forth in the agreement, and to terminate the agreement if deemed itto be in the best interest of Union County, each in the County Manager's discretion.
The motion passed by a vote of three to one as follows.
Chairman Rowell Aye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsNay
Commissioner Williams was not present.
County Manager's Comments
Brian Matthews, County Manager, had no closing comments.
Commissioners' Comments
Chairman Rowell recognized Jason Kay, attorney for the board, Mr. Jason Kayfor his comments.
Jason Kay addressed questions received over the weekend regarding the special meeting held earlier to discuss security plans. Mr. Kay clarified that although state statutes require specific
language when calling such meetings, the meeting was not called in relation to a known terrorist threat. He explained that it was a productive and routine meeting to review security
plans and protocols aimed at ensuring safety during public meetings. He reassured everyone that Union County aims to be a proactive force in preventing problems before they begin. He
thanked those who read the public notices and reiterated that there was no known issue, and the language used was simply required by the North Carolina General Statutes.
Commissioner Baucom acknowledged that Commissioner Williams was feeling under the weather and wished him a speedy recovery. He also expressed appreciation for the staff's hard work and
encouraged everyone to be careful on their way home.
Commissioner Merrell expressed appreciation to Commissioner Stony Rushing’s family for attending the meeting and shared that it is always heartwarming to see his family here in his absence,
participating in a public body that he loved so much.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms echoed Commissioner Merrell's comments, expressing gladness to see Commissioner Rushing’s family and friends, noting it was a testament to what he meant
to many people and to the county. He thanked his colleagues on the Board for a productive meeting and expressed appreciation for the staff's efforts. He also mentioned that they were
praying for Commissioner Williams' speedy recovery.
Chairman Rowell reiterated the sentiments of Commissioner Merrell and Vice Chairman Helms, thanking the Rushing family, their friends, and all County staff, including law enforcement,
police, fire, and EMS. He expressed gratitude to all who attended the meeting.
Adjournment
With there being no further comments or discussion, at approximately 7:35p.m., Chairman Rowell moved that the regular meeting be adjourned. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero
as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner BaucomAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
Union County, NC Board of Commissioners
Meeting Minutes
Union County Government Center
500 North Main Street Monroe, North Carolina
www.unioncountync.gov
Monday, August 12, 20246:00 PM Board Room, First Floor
_______________________________________________________________
Closed Session - 5:00 PM
24-565 Closed Session
PRESENT:Chairman J. R. Rowell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy C. Baucom, and Commissioner Melissa M. Merrell
ABSENT:Commissioner David Williams
ALSO PRESENT:Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton T. Voignier, Assistant County Manager;
and Jason Kay, County Attorney
In open session, at approximately 5:00 p.m., in the First Floor Conference Room, Union County Government Center, Chairman J. R. Rowell, opened the regular meeting of Monday, August 12,
2024, and moved that the Board enter into closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11:
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(1), to prevent the disclosure of
information that is privileged or confidential pursuant to G.S. 132-6, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3), to consult with an attorney in order
to preserve the attorney-client privilege, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(4), to discuss matter relating to the
location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area served
by the public body, including agreement on a tentative list of economic
development incentives that may be offered by the public body in
negotiations, and
pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(9), to discuss and take action
regarding plans to protect public safety as it relates to existing or potential
terrorist activity and to receive briefings by staff members, legal counsel,
or law enforcement or emergency service officials concerning actions
taken or to be taken to respond to such activity.The motion passed by a vote of four to one as follows:Chair J. R. RowellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner Clancy BaucomAyeCommissioner
Melissa M. MerrellAyeCommissioner David Williams was not present.At approximately, 5:18 p.m., Chairman Rowell moved that the Board recess and reconvene its regular meeting at 6:00 p.m.
in the Board’s Meeting Chamber, first floor, Union County Government Center. The motion passed by a vote of four to one as follows:Chair J. R. RowellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner
Clancy BaucomAyeCommissioner Melissa M. MerrellAyeCommissioner David Williams was not present.
Opening of Meeting - 6:00 PM
The chairman convened the regular meeting at approximately 6:00 p.m. the following were
Present:Chairman J.R. Rowell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy C. Baucom, and Commissioner Melissa M. Merrell
Absent:Commissioner David Williams
Also Present:Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton Voignier, Assistant County Manager;
Jason Kay, County Attorney; and other interested residents.
Invocation - Vice Chairman Brian Helms offered the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance – Chairman J.R. Rowell led the body and audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Informal Comments
Chairman Rowell reviewed the guidelines for making informal comments and recognizedAeronia Poole as the first speaker.
Ms. Poole was not present
Roger Melton stated that he was a lifelong resident of Union County. He shared his concerns regarding the proposed rezoning on Highway 218 for a granite countertop business. He stated
that he is not a disgruntled neighbor or against a business across from his property. He clarified that his main concern is the potential for pollution,air, water, and noise.
Mr. Melton described Union County’s physical features, saying Rocky River is at the top of the list. He noted how the northern part of the county sits on a rock,which has cracks where
water seeps down to aquifers, leading to issues with ponds leaking.
Mr. Melton reminded the Board that about 50 years agothe Rocky River was polluted, and it took years to recover. He also recalled that progress of any kind was halted due to an endangered
mussel, called the Heelsplitter, found in branches that feed into Rocky River.
Mr. Melton raised a question that if contamination or poison happens, who would be responsible to monitor the waters if this rezoning is approved. He also sought clarity on chemicals
that might be used to separate solids, control dust particles, and address airborne particles. He also raised concerns about the amount of noise that would be created.
Hequestioned if environmental authorities would be involved and if contamination occurred, who would be responsible for the cleanup. He emphasized the need for answers before the fact
and expressed his hope that the Board would make a prudent decision.He suggested that hopefully this company could find a more suitable tract of land, because he did not believe it is
the right location.
Public Hearing(s)
24-542Public Hearing - BFS Operations LLC dba Builders FirstSource
(Project TEMPER) to Consider a “STEP 2” Economic Development
Incentive Grant in an Amount not to Exceed $104,500 over a
Five-Year Period
Chairman Rowell opened the public hearing at approximately 6:06 p.m. regarding a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500 over a five-year period
and recognized Ron Mahle from the Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission (EDC) for comments.
Mr. Mahle presented an economic development incentive grant request to the Board on behalf of BFS Operations LLC, doing business as BuildersFirstSource, also known as Project TEMPER.
He explained that Builders FirstSource is a residential construction materials manufacturer, distributor, with a presence in 41 states. He stated that the company maintains three facilities
in Union County: in Indian Trail a glass, shower door and mirror assembly facility; in Sutton Park, Monroe - a roof truss fabrication facility; and an indoor lumber yard on Airport Road
in Monroe. He said these locations have been operated for over 25 years under previous names.
Mr. Mahle explained that the project under consideration is a $5.5 million investment in new equipment located at its Airport Road facility.He said this equipment would allow the company
to produce tempered glass that will then be shipped to its Indian Trail facility for final assembly, distribution, and installation.He explained that producing the tempered glass locally
will result in considerable cost savings over having to truck in the tempered glass from several states away.
Mr. Mahle added that the project is anticipated to create 35 new full-time jobs, and those jobs would pay $25 per hour.
Heshared that discussions with FirstSource began earlier this summer, and the company has indicated that incentives are an important factor for the project. He requested the Boards consideration
of a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500, paid over five years, based on the Union County Tax Office’s appraised value each year of the
company’s $5.5 million equipment investment.
Mr. Mahle explained that based on the investment and holding all other factors constant including depreciation, BuildersFirstSource would pay an estimated $161,700 in ad valorem taxes
on the new investment over the five-year grant period. He added that after depreciation, the grant would adjust down to $97,800, and tax revenues would adjust to $151,300. He noted
that actual tax revenue would basedon the current tax rate applied to the assessed value of the investment each year.
Mr. Mahle presented the results of the cost-benefit analysis, showing a 2.24-to-1 ratio over the first five years of the project(or the grant period) and a 2.86-to-1 ratio over the life
of the project. He said the Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission recommends the award of a “Step 2” performance-based Economic Development Incentive Grant, to BFS Operations,
LLC, doing business as Builders First Source in an amount not to exceed $104,500, to help secure the $5.5 million investment.
Mr. Mahle introduced Bill Greene, the Charlotte Market Product Line Manager at BuildersFirstSource. He stated that Mr. Green was available to answer any questions about the project.
Chairman Rowell stated that no one had signed up to speak at the public hearing and asked if there was anyone present who had not registered to speak but who wanted to address the Board
during this time.
With there being no one who wished to speak, the Chairman closed the public hearing at approximately 6:10 p.m.
Staff Recognition
24-498 Recognize Lifesaver Award Recipients
Chairman Rowell recognized County Manager Brian Matthews to present the item.
Mr. Matthews recognizedUnion County Water Crewleader Jayme Hargett and Utility Technician Dominick Hamilton with the Lifesaver Award. He explained that one of Mr. Hargett’s and Mr.
Hamilton’s co-workers, Matt Hargett, was being lowered into a sewer manhole, andhis apparatus and equipment started showing that there were some dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in
the manhole. Mr. Hargett and Mr. Hamilton quickly pulled Matt Hargett back out. Mr. Matthews emphasized that second’s mattered in this situation and could have meant the difference between
life and death.
Mr. Matthews presented plaques to Dominick Hamilton and Jayme Hargett in recognition of their efforts, and they were photographed with the Board.
24-522 Public Communications Department Earns International Awards
Chairman Rowell introduced Liz Cooper, Public Communications Director, to present the item.
Liz Cooper, Public Communications Director, shared that the Public Communications team had recently received two international awards from the 30th annual Communicator Awards, the largest
and most competitive awards program, celebrating creative excellence in communications.
Ms. Cooper explained that the team earned an Award of Excellence, which is the competition's highest honor, for the Yadkin Regional Water Supply Project completion video, and an Award
of Distinction in the recruitment category for a video entitled 'Grow Your Future with Union County Government.'" She noted that these awards were selected from more than 3,000 entries
across the country and around the world.
Ms. Cooper emphasized the importance of creating compelling, engaging content that resonates with residents and stakeholders. She expressed pride in her team’s achievements and thanked
the Board for this opportunity.
Ms. Cooper and her team members were photographed with the Commissioners.
24-532 Information Technology Department Earns National Award
Chairman Rowell introduced the next agenda item and recognized Jon Amelio, Information Technology Director, regarding an international award received by the department.
Mr. Amelio explained that the Center for Digital Government is a research and advisory organization that focuses on the use of technology in government. He said that the Center, in
partnership with GovTech magazine, conducts a nationally recognized digital government survey. He further said this survey identifies municipalities that have demonstrated excellence
in digital government by highlighting successful projects, innovative solutions, and effective leadership in the use of technology.
He shared that Union County's Information Technology Department was awarded the Digital Counties Award at the National Association of Counties Conference in July, ranking sixth in the
150,000 to 249,999 population categories. He stated that this marks the eighth yearthat his department has been recognized in the top 10 nationally, with this year being the second highest
ranking the department has attained. Mr. Amelio expressed appreciation to his team, leadership group, progressive and creative departments within the county and the supportive management.
He introduced his team members present: Chance Kelly, Vann Dale, Buffy Dorch, Liz Trevino, Assistant Director Chris Liersaph, and Brian McFadden. He thanked the team members for their
contributions, expressing appreciation for their role in helping the county make progress.
Mr. Amelio and his team members were photographed with the Commissioners.
24-570 Recognize Sheriff’s Office K9 Team for Extraordinary Efforts to Helpa Child
Chairman Rowell recognized Lieutenant James Maye, Union County Sheriff’s Office, to present the item.
Lieutenant Mayeintroduced K9 Remy and expressed appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners and the County management team for the opportunity to speak about a recent event where
Deputy Brad Belk and K9 Remi had an opportunity to make a difference in the community. Lieutenant Maye expressed gratitude to the residents of Union Countyfor their daily support of
the men and women in the Sheriff’s office.
Lieutenant Mayesaid he serves as the Public Information Officer for Sheriff Eddie Cathey. He provided a summary of an incident that led to special recognition of Deputy Belk and K9 Remi.
He shared that on July 7, a resident called 911 after finding a child walking alone along on Waxhaw Indian Trail Road. He stated that multiple deputies responded and tried to determine
the child’s home but were unsuccessful due to the child’s autism and non-verbal status. Lieutenant Maye said that Deputy Belk and bloodhound Remi then attempted a reverse canine track,
starting from where the child was found and aiming to locate his home.
He explained the unusual approach, as reverse tracking is not standard practice. He said lacking a typical scent article, Deputy Belk used sterile gauze to collect a scent from the child’s
arm and neck, which he then provided to Remi. He stated that Remi followed the scent for about half a mile, leading them to a home with an open garage. Lieutenant said when the deputies
knocked on the door, the relieved parents confirmed they were missing their child. He said the team reunited the boy with his family.
He explained that the reverse tracking approach was not typical for the Sheriff’s Office. He described the incident as a unique approach to a search. Lieutenant Maye expressed pride
in the team and welcomed Sheriff Eddie Cathey to speak further about their exceptional work.
Sheriff Eddie Catheyshared what it meant to this community and his agency for this honor.He explained that while people often think of law enforcement as chase them, catch them, put
them in jail, that is not what they do every day.Sheriff Cathey said that deputies perform all the things that are necessary to keep the community safe. He expressed appreciation to
the Board for its support of the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Belk and Remi were photographed with the Commissioners.
Lieutenant James Mayecommented that the Sheriff's Office has many animals available for adoption, including plenty of Remi’s cousins and friends, although not all are houndsthere are
various mixed breeds. He highlighted that the Sheriff's Office is currently running a Clear the Shelters campaign for the next 20 days, aiming to get 150 animalsadopted. He encouraged
the public to visit the shelter and noted that all adoptable animals are listed on the Sheriff's Office app.
Consent Agenda
Chairman Rowell asked if there were any motions regarding requested revisions or amendments to either the consent agenda or the business agenda.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms moved to adopt the consent agenda and the business agenda as published.
The motion passed with a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-516 Task Order Amendment - On-Call GIS Support
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda items, 2) exercise any renewal or extension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate the Agreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager’s discretion.
Union County Water (UCW) has established a Smart Water vision that
includes high-level data and system architecture to assist with real-time
data visualization and long-term planning. UCW has need for additional
resources to advance the geospatial elements of the roadmap. This task
order amendment is to continue on-call geospatial services to help
support UCW with:
- Data design and architecture;
- Geospatial application development;
- Asset Management program development;
- Data governance, SOPs, or other work instructions;
- Database design, creation, and documentation; and
- Other geospatial services as required.
This funding is needed to supplement staff. UCW has had difficulty
recruiting for these particular GIS administration and application
development skills. This amendment is to add additional funds to
continue the on-call support.
The total cost of the contract amendment with Dewberry Engineers, Inc.
is $90,000.00. Sufficient funds are available in the FY2025 budget.
24-520 Contract - FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program - Phase B
ACTION:1) Accept the scope of services for engineering design, permitting,easement exhibit preparation, and bidding for the FY2023 Short WaterLine Extension Program - Phase B as shown
in the attached Freese andNichols, Inc. Task Order 8740-01 in the amount of $177,890.00 and 2)authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent
with this agenda item.
The Short Water Line Extension Program, as adopted by the Board of
County Commissioners (BOCC), provides for the extension of water lines
to serve and provide an environmental benefit to qualifying applicants in
Union County. The program has attracted significant interest and has
maintained a backlog of applicants/projects for several years. Funding to
address the backlog of applicants/projects was previously authorized by
the BOCC as part of the FY2020 and FY2021 Capital Improvement Plan
budgets. A revision of the program for FY2022 included an annual
application period, prioritization of applications based on ranking criteria,
annual funding allocation commensurate with program participation
subject to BOCC approval, and no project backlog.
Union County staff reviewed the FY2022 program results and
recommended revisions to the scoring criteria and adding the well testing
requirement for the FY2023 program. The application period, cost share
fee, well testing requirements, and revised scoring criteria were approvedby the BOCC on June 20, 2022. On September 19, 2022, the BOCCapproved testing reimbursement up to $200 per applicant
using$100,000 of appropriated ARPA funds.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program has a budget of $5
million. Applications for the program were accepted from September 21,
2022 through December 20, 2022. A total of thirty-four (34) projects were
assembled from the sixty-five (65) applicants that applied for the program
with a total length of approximately 33.7 miles. These projects were
evaluated and ranked based on the ranking criteria the BOCC approved
on June 20, 2022. A share fee ranging from $750 to $3,000 per
applicant was determined for each of the thirty-four projects based on the
cost share sliding scale approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. Based
on the ranking of the projects and the FY2023 budget, seventeen (17)
projects were recommended for selection for the FY2023 Short Water
Line Extension Program. These projects consisted of forty-five (45)
applicants with a total length of approximately 6.5 miles. The total
The estimated cost for these seventeen projects was $3.3 million dollars. The
BOCC approved the list of recommended applicant projects in August
14, 2023.
The forty-five applicants for the selected projects were required to pay thecost share fee and meter installation fee by the November 20, 2023
deadline to confirm participation in the program. Of the forty-five selected
applicants, thirty-four (34) paid their fees. Fifteen (15) of the selected
seventeen projects had at least one (1) applicant pay fees. These fifteen
projects were re-scored based on the number of paid applicants. Project
rankings were not impacted by the change in the number of applicants for change in number of applicants.
At the BOCC meeting on November 6, 2023, the BOCC noted their
preference not to utilize condemnation for easement acquisition for the
FY2023 Short Water Line Extension projects. Based on information
provided by NCDOT, staff estimates that three (3) of the fifteen
recommended projects will require an estimated total of thirteen (13)
easements, with six (6) of these easements being from non-applicants.
On April 1, 2024, the BOCC approved the updated list of fifteen
recommended projects.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program projects have been
divided into Phase A and Phase B. Phase B consists of approximately
12,860 LF of water lines ranging from 2-inch to 12-inch to serve 12
applicants on Medlin Road, Mullis Newsome Road, Morgan Mill Road,
Old Pageland Monroe Road, Edwards Farm Lane, and Little Staton
Road.
This task order includes engineering services for design, permitting,
easement exhibit preparation, and bidding services for Phase B. The
scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order 8740-01 has
been reviewed by UCW engineering staff and is appropriate for the
project. These services are to be provided on a lump sum basis of
$84,070.00 and a not-to-exceed basis of $93,820.00 for a total task order
amount of $177,890.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Short Water Line Program to
support the engineering services as shown in Freese and Nichols, Inc.
Task Order 8740-01 in the amount of $177,890.00.
24-521 Contract - FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program - Phase A
ACTION:1) Accepted the scope of services for engineering design, permitting,easement exhibit preparation, and bidding for the FY2023 Short WaterLine Extension Program - Phase A as shown
in the attached WK Dickson& Co., Inc. Task Order 8678-01 in the amount of $279,600.00 and 2)authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent
with this agenda item.
The Short Water Line Extension Program, as adopted by the Board of
County Commissioners (BOCC), provides for the extension of water lines
to serve and provide an environmental benefit to qualifying applicants in
Union County. The program has attracted significant interest and has
maintained a backlog of applicants/projects for several years. Funding to
address the backlog of applicants/projects was previously authorized by
the BOCC as part of the FY2020 and FY2021 Capital Improvement Plan
budgets. A revision of the program for FY2022 included an annual
application period, prioritization of applications based on ranking criteria,
annual funding allocation commensurate with program participation
subject to BOCC approval, and no project backlog.
Union County staff reviewed the FY2022 program results and
recommended revisions to the scoring criteria and adding the well testing
requirement for the FY2023 program. The application period, cost share
fee, well testing requirements, and revised scoring criteria were approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. On September 19, 2022, the BOCC approved well testing reimbursement up to $200
per applicant using $100,000 of appropriated ARPA funds.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program has a budget of $5
million. Applications for the program were accepted from September 21,
2022 through December 20, 2022. A total of thirty-four (34) projects were
assembled from the sixty-five (65) applicants that applied for the program
with a total length of approximately 33.7 miles. These projects were
evaluated and ranked based on the ranking criteria the BOCC approved
on June 20, 2022. A cost share fee ranging from $750 to $3,000 per
applicant was determined for each of the thirty-four projects based on the
cost share sliding scale approved by the BOCC on June 20, 2022. Based
on the ranking of the projects and the FY2023 budget, seventeen (17)
projects were recommended for selection for the FY2023 Short Water
Line Extension Program. These projects consisted of forty-five (45)
applicants with a total length of approximately 6.5 miles. The total
estimated cost for these seventeen projects was $3.3 million dollars. The
BOCC approved the list of recommended applicant projects on August
14, 2023.
The forty-five applicants for the selected projects were required to pay the cost share fee and meter installation fee by November 20, 2023
deadline to confirm participation in the program. Of the forty-five selected
applicants, thirty-four (34) paid their fees. Fifteen (15) of the selected
seventeen projects had at least one (1) applicant pay fees. These fifteen
projects were re-scored based on the number of paid applicants. Project
rankings were not impacted by the change in the number of applicants for each project, but project lengths and costs were updated due to the
change in number of applicants.
At the BOCC meeting on November 6, 2023, the BOCC noted their
preference not to utilize condemnation for easement acquisition for the
FY2023 Short Water Line Extension projects. Based on information
provided by NCDOT, staff estimates that three (3) of the fifteen
recommended projects will require an estimated total of thirteen (13)
easements, with six (6) of these easements being from non-applicants.
On April 1, 2024, the BOCC approved the updated list of fifteen
recommended projects.
The FY2023 Short Water Line Extension Program projects have been
divided into Phase A and Phase B. Phase A consists of approximately
13,120 LF of water lines ranging from 2-inch to 12-inch to serve 21
applicants on New Town Road and Belair Street, Grove Drive, Stack
Road, Sanford Lane, Nesbit Road, Tom Starnes Road, Forest Drive, and
Newell Drive.
This task order includes engineering services for design, permitting,
easement exhibit preparation, and bidding services for Phase A. The
scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order 8678-01 has
been reviewed by UCW engineering staff and is appropriate for the
project. These services are to be provided on a lump sum basis of
$133,300.00 and a not-to-exceed basis of $146,300.00 for a total task
order amount of $279,600.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Short Water Line Program to
support the engineering services as shown in WK Dickson & Co., Inc.
Task Order 8678-01 in the amount of $279,600.00.
24-530Resolution - Waxhaw Sanitary Sewer Replacement & Rehabilitation - NCDEQ-DWI Funding Offer
ACTION:1) Adopted resolution to accept 2023 Appropriations Act (S.L. 2023-134)funding in the amount of $1,477,500.00 from the North CarolinaDepartment of Environmental Quality Division
of Water Infrastructure and2) authorize the County Manager to execute all necessary documentation to effectuate acceptance of the funding.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), includes an allocation for the Wastewater
Rehabilitation and Replacement Program geared towards asset
management of existing wastewater facilities. A condition assessment
was completed for the Waxhaw Septic Tank Effluent Gravity (STEG)
system, and a two-phase replacement project was developed to replace
the existing 4-inch and 6-inch STEG sewer piping with conventional
8-inch gravity sewer mains and manholes due to their poor condition. The first phase of the project consists of the replacement of approximately 4,000 linear feet of sewer lines in the
Waxhaw downtown area on the north side of the railroad that runs along Highway 75.
On March 1, 2021, the BOCC approved WK Dickson Task Order 2021-01 in the amount of $104,850.00 for the engineering field assessment and preliminary design. The BOCC also approved WK
Dickson Task Order 2021-09 in the amount of $135,509.00 for final design, permitting, and bidding services on March 20, 2023.
Funding has been offered by the North Carolina Department of
Environmental Quality Division of Water Infrastructure in the amount of
$1,477,500.00 to be applied to the cost of the construction of the project.
The resolution acknowledges receipt of a Letter of Intent to Fund and
Funding Offer and accepts the terms of the Funding Offer in the amount
of $1,477,500.00 from the 2023 Appropriations Act (S.L. 2023-134) to
assist eligible units of government with meeting their water/wastewater
infrastructure needs. The funds will be used for the Waxhaw Sanitary
Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation project construction.
No immediate financial impact. Once the project commences, the County
will submit requests for reimbursement to the State on a recurring basis
until the $1,477,500.00 in funding is exhausted.
24-531 WRF Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Updates
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager's discretion.
Union County owns and operates five water reclamation facilities (WRFs). Two of those facilities, the Twelve Mile Creek WRF and Crooked Creek WRF are required to comply with the North
Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s (NCDEQ) National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) NCG110000 General Stormwater Permit for Treatment Works. SWPPPs were created for the Twelve Mile Creek WRF and Crooked Creek WRF sites in the fall of 2008,
recently NCDEQ updated the stormwater permit that requires updates to the SWPPP for both facilities.
Hazen and Sawyer has been selected to provide Engineering Services for7364-5. Hazen and Sawyer was chosen from a list of vendors previouslyselected from RFQ 2022-008, Engineering Services
for Twelve MileCreek WRF Expansion to 9 MGD to provide these services for UnionCounty projects.
The total cost of the contract with Hazen and Sawyer is $72,440.00.
Sufficient funds are available in Capital Account WRF Operations Budget
- 60026710-5381.
24-533 Contract Amendment - FY2022 Union County Pump Station Rehab
ACTION:1) Accepted the scope of services for additional design services as shown in the attached Task Order 2021-05 Amendment 2 with WK Dickson & Co., Inc. in the amount of $91,300.00
and 2) authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The Wastewater Pump Station Improvements Program, as adopted by
the Board of County Commissioners includes an annual allocation for
rehab and renewal of wastewater pump stations. This project will include
the rehabilitation of seven pump stations: Olde Sycamore No. 1, Olde
Sycamore No. 2, Green Meadows, Suburban Estates No. 1, Suburban
Estates No. 3, Magnolia Ridge, and Old Hickory.
On March 7, 2022, the BOCC approved WK Dickson & Co., Inc. Task
Order 2021-05 for engineering design services for the project in the
amount of $141,750.00. Task Order 2021-05 was initially increased by
$18,700.00, with the County Manager’s approval, to a total amount of
$160,450.00 through Amendment 1 to cover additional engineering
services.
Amendment 2 includes additional design efforts, including additional
survey for Magnolia Ridge and Old Hickory pump stations, structural
design of elevated platforms and HEC-RAS study for Suburban Estates
No. 1 pump station, and additional electrical and engineering design at allsites. The scope of services for the work in the attached Task Order
2021-05 Amendment 2 has been reviewed by UCW engineering staff andis appropriate for the project. These services are to be provided on a
lump sum basis in the amount of $50,560.00 and not-to-exceed basis in
the amount of $40,740.00 for an amendment total amount of $91,300.00.
This amendment will increase the total task order value to $251,750.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Capital Improvement Program to
support the increase in WK Dickson & Co., Inc. Task Order 2021-05
Amendment 2 in the amount of $91,300.00, bringing the total task order
value to $251,750.00.
24-534Bid Award - Crooked Creek WRF UV Disinfection Replacement
Project
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder, authorize award of the construction contract toBasinger Contracting Co., in the amount of $2,869,177.75, 2) accept thescope of engineering services
for construction administration as shown inthe attached Task Order 8684-01 with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., in theamount of $311,690.00, 3) authorize the County Manager to negotiateand execute
agreements substantially consistent with this agenda item,and 4) adopt Resolution Providing Notice of the Crooked Creek WRF UVDisinfection Replacement Project Construction.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC), includes an allocation for rehabilitation projects
at the County’s Water Reclamation Facilities (WRF’s) as part of the WRF
R&R Program. These improvements are integral to the long-term
maintenance and operation of these facilities.
The Crooked Creek WRF currently uses ultraviolet (UV) light for
disinfection of the reclaimed water prior to discharge of the treated
effluent. The current equipment is at the end of its useful life, and the
manufacturer has released a bulletin stating that it will no longer support
this model of UV equipment due to the model being outdated with their
current manufacture of more efficient UV equipment. Therefore, an
evaluation was completed in January 2023 to determine the best option
for replacement of the existing equipment since the facility will remain in
operation for the foreseeable future.
The BOCC approved Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 2020-07 on June 5,
2023, for engineering design and bid phase services for this expansion
project in the amount of $348,560.00. The BOCC also approved use of
preferred brand alternate procurement of the UV disinfection equipment
at the February 19, 2024, meeting.
Union County advertised the project on June 13, 2024, and received five
(5) bids at the bid opening on July 18, 2024. The bids ranged from
$2,869,177.75 to $3,596,467.75. The engineer’s estimate for constructionof the project was $3,000,000.00. The bids were reviewed and certified bythe engineer per the attached award recommendation
letter and bidtabulation. Based on the engineer’s review and Procurement Divisionapproval of the bid, UCW engineering staff recommends that the projectbe awarded to the lowest responsive,
responsible bidder, BasingerContracting Co., in the amount of $2,869,177.75.
To support the construction of the project, construction administration
services are required to ensure the project is constructed to meet the
requirements set forth in the project plans and specifications. The scope
of services for construction administration services identified in the
attached Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 8684-01 has been reviewed by
UCW engineering staff and is appropriate for the project. Services are to
be provided on a per diem not to exceed basis in the amount of
$311,690.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Capital Improvement Program for
the Crooked Creek WRF UV Disinfection Replacement project to support
the construction contract amount of $2,869,177.75 with Basinger
Contracting Co., and construction administration services described in
Hazen and Sawyer Task Order 8684-01 in the amount of $311,690.00.
24-546 Task Order - Easement - Evaluation, Education, and Enforcement
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
Union County Water has the responsibility to operate and maintain over
400 miles of off-street water and wastewater distribution lines. NCDEQ
also requires UC Water to maintain access to this infrastructure. An
easement is the right to make use of land owned by another
without taking a part thereof. In the case of our water and sewer system,
easements give the County the right of access to inspect, maintain,
repair, or replace its infrastructure. When an easement crosses an
owner’s property, it is important that access by the County is not
restricted. The County must be able to reach its infrastructure for routine
maintenance and repairs. There are several types of obstructions that
could prevent the County from accessing sewer and water infrastructure
in the easement area. They include, but are not limited to, fences, swing
sets, swimming pools, sheds, home additions, garages, tennis courts andtrees. Currently we have 1,826 known obstructions throughout the
system. UC Water has an established SOP to address these
obstructions. Consultant Service with an expertise in property research
and enforcement is needed to address these obstructions. This Task
Order has a three (3) year term and is subject to budget appropriation.
Professional Property Services, Inc. has been selected to provide
Easement - Evaluation, Education, and Enforcement for Task Order
#8981-01. Professional Property Services, Inc. was chosen from a list of
vendors previously selected from RFQ 2024-054 to provide these
services for Union County projects.
The total cost of the contract with Professional Property Services, Inc. is
$400,000. Sufficient funds are available in the Capital Account
60026512-5381 - Field Services Operations Budget.
24-548 Bid Award - Emerald Woods Water Main Extension
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder, authorize award of the construction contract toClassic City Mechanical, Inc. in the amount of $478,154.25, 2) accept thescope of engineering services
for construction administration as shown inthe attached Task Order 2021-02 with Kimley-Horn in the amount of$52,857.00, 3) adopt Resolution Providing Notice of the Emerald WoodsWater
Main Extension Project Construction, and 4) authorize the CountyManager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistentwith this agenda item.
The Capital Improvement Program, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners, including system improvements and extensions of the
existing water system. Union County Water will be responsible for
procuring engineering and construction services for design,
permitting, bidding, and construction of the proposed water main
extension project. The project consists of 8-inch, 6-inch and 2-inch water
mains and appurtenances in order to provide water to the Emerald
Woods subdivision.
On November 7, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners approved theInterlocal Agreement between Union County and the Town of Indian Trail.As part of this agreement, Union County is responsible
for an amount notto exceed $400,000.00 based on an equal cost share (50%) of the totalcost of the project. The Town of Indian Trail agrees to reimburse UnionCounty in an amount not to
exceed $400,000.00 based on an equal share(50%) of the total cost of the project.
On June 6, 2023, The Board of County Commissioners approved the
Capital Project Ordinance 319A for the purpose of providing funds,
together with any other available funds, for the Emerald Woods Water
Main Extension project in the amount of $800,000.00.On July 17, 2023, the BOCC approved Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-01for engineering design services for the project in the amount of$129,874.00.
On July 23, 2024, the Union County Procurement Division received and
opened eight (8) bids for the project. All bids were reviewed and certified
by the engineer per the attached award recommendation letter and bid
tabulation. The bids ranged from $478,154.25 to $1,036,510.60 and,
based on the engineer’s review and Procurement Division approval of thebids, staff recommends that the project be awarded to the lowest
responsive, responsible bidder, Classic City Mechanical, Inc., in the
amount of $478,154.25.
To support the construction of the project, construction administration
services are required to ensure the project is constructed to meet the
requirements set forth in the project plans and specifications. The scope
of services for construction administration services identified in the
attached Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-02 has been reviewed by UCW
engineering staff and is appropriate for the project. Services are to be
provided on a lump sum basis in the amount of $11,156.00 and a
not-to-exceed basis in the amount of $41,701.00, for a total task order
amount of $52,857.00.
Funding is available within the adopted Capital Improvement Program for
the Emerald Woods Water Main Extension project to support the
construction contract amount of $478,154.25 with Classic City
Mechanical, Inc. and construction administration services described in
Kimley-Horn Task Order 2021-02 in the amount of $52,857.00 with these
total costs being shared equally between Union County and the Town of
Indian Trail.
24-535Purchase - Law Enforcement Vehicles
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager's discretion.
(20) 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 1FL/LS PPV 9C1 4WD CK10706
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of 20 - 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 4 Dr 1500 PPV 4WD 9C1
CK10706 will be made using North Carolina Statewide Contract 2510A asquoted by Capital Chevrolet. The Procurement Department has vetted
this contract and purchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the Vehicle is $1,038,185.60 and is budgeted
accordingly, for FY2025.
24-481 Lease Agreement - United States Department of Agriculture for
Office Space at the Union County Agricultural Center
ACTION:1)Adopted resolution authorizing the execution of a lease of office space atthe Union County Agricultural Center to the United States Department ofAgriculture, and 2) authorize
the County Manager to negotiate andexecute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The United States Department of Agriculture, formerly known as the FarmService Agency, has leased space in the Union County Agricultural
Center for the past three (3) years under a lease agreement that expires
on July 31, 2024. The United States Department of Agriculture is
requesting that the agreement be renewed for another three (3) year termbeginning on August 1, 2024, and terminating on July 31, 2027. Thereare no requested changes in square footage
or other facility-relatedneeds.The terms of the lease include the following: 2,693 rentable square feet ofoffice space located at Union County Agricultural Building. The Lesseeshall
pay, as rental for said premises, the sum of forty thousand threehundred and ninety-five ($40,395.00) dollars per annum.
The County will receive $40,395.00 per annum per the lease terms.
24-554 Change Order - Jail Door Locks and Controls Project
ACTION:1) authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth in
the Agreement, and terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion, and 2) Adopt CPO #288D
April 3, 2023, Regular Meeting, Agenda Item # 23-189 - Awarded
construction contract, authorized execution of contract, and adopted
resolution providing notice of construction.
After execution of the construction contract, Union County entered
negotiations with the contractor, JM Cope, Inc., to reduce the scope of
work to lower overall project costs considering discussions surrounding
the potential approval of a new Detention Center. The reduction in scope
was to include a significant reduction in the number of cell locks to be
replaced as well as associated electronic control system connections andwiring. Given that the new Detention Center will take several years tocomplete once approved, the UC Sheriff’s
Office requested that the
original scope be restored, add two (2) alternates, not originally accepted
on bid day and increase the number of keys to be cut and delivered. In
addition, the contractor realized significant escalation during the time of
scope reduction negotiations and those costs are included in the change
order request. Union County Sheriff’s Office and Facilities Management
staff recommend approval of costs for the increased scope of work and
associated costs included in the change order.
The breakdown of costs included in the change order request is below:
Alternate #1 - Rekey food pass locks$69,064.00
Alternate #2 - Replace existing cell door hinges $28,369.00
Material Price Escalation $70,895.00
Additional Keys $11,985.00
Total $180,313.00
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of JM Cope,
Inc. for construction services on the Jail Door Locks and Controls project
since 2023. JM Cope, Inc. has been effective and efficient in meeting these service needs, and the request is to approve the contract amendmentto increase the scope of work as detailed
in this request and the changeorder documents.
This request also includes the adoption of CPO#288D to provide
sufficient funds in the Jail Door Controls and Locks capital account,
40080126, to cover these additional costs and allow additional budget for
future change orders if needed. Any unused budget can be transferred foruse on other projects at the completion of the project. Any additional
change orders will also be brought to the Board for approval at future
meetings. We are requesting the transfer of funds totaling $235,000.00
from the Jail Paint Block Walls and Floors capital account, 40080112, intothe Jail Door Controls and Lock capital account, 40080126.
The contractor has submitted Change Order #1 in the amount of
$180,313.00 to cover the costs associated with the increased scope and
escalation. The original contract price was $2,721,000.00 and with this
change order will increase by $180,313.00 to $2,901,313.00.
The cost of this change order is $180,313.00. After adoption of
CPO#288D there will be sufficient funds in capital account 40080126 -
Jail Door Controls and Locks to cover this expense.
24-557Lease Agreement - State of North Carolina, Department of Public
Safety - DJJ (Juvenile Justice) for Office Space at 604 Lancaster
Avenue
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
Union County has provided office space, located at 604 Lancaster
Avenue in Monroe, through a lease to the NC Department of Juvenile
Justice since 2018. The County currently leases the property from
Raymond Smith at a cost of $85,971.00 per annum and will sub-lease theproperty to the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice for $1 perannum.
The current sub-lease with the North Carolina Department of Adult
Correction expires on June 30, 2024. This request is to approve a new
two (2) year lease with the following conditions and terms:
Being approximately 10,300 net square feet of office space located at 604Lancaster Avenue; Union County; Monroe, North Carolina, and furtherdescribed in the floor plan, Exhibit “A” (attached).
The term of this lease
shall be for a period of two (2) years, commencing on 1st day of July
2024, or as soon thereafter as the leased premises are ceded to the
Lessee and terminating on the 31st day of May 2026. During the term of
the lease, the Lessee shall pay to the Lessor as rental for said premises
the sum of $1.00 dollar per annum.
The County currently leases the property at a cost of $85,971.00 per
annum and will receive $1 per annum from this sub lease to the North
Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.
24-560 Change Order - Austin Chaney Site Redesign Project
INFORMATION CONTACT:
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in theCounty Manager’s discretion.
July 17, 2023, Regular Meeting, Agenda Item # 23-432 - Awarded
construction contract, authorized execution of contract, adopted
resolution providing notice of construction, adopted Budget Amendment
#2, and adopted CPO #255A.
The project is to redesign the Austin Chaney residential waste and
recycling center site. The existing site has many deficiencies that
negatively impact the customer experience of Union County residents.
The deficiencies include limited space dedicated to the various waste andrecycling functions, poor circulation patterns for entry, drop-off, and exit,limited vehicular control options
presenting staff and users with possiblesafety concerns, no lighting, limited options for operational controls andtransfers, and poor drainage. The new site layout was designedaccording
to industry’s best practices and comparable to other county andmunicipal facilities.The contractor, Anson Contractors, Inc., encountered a significant area ofunsuitable soil while performing
excavation and proof-rolling for the siteimprovements. Remediation of the unsuitable soils included removal andreplacement with suitable fill. There were also minor elevationadjustments
made by the designer that required additional grading andfilling. The contractor has requested approval of Change Order #7, in theamount of $87,605.09 to complete the soil remediation.
The County’sthird-party special inspector/materials testing firm confirmed all quantitiesand the project designer confirmed the proper application of unit pricing. SolidWaste and Facilities
staff recommend approval of the change orderincluded in this request.
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of Anson
Contractors, Inc. for construction services on the Austin Chaney Site
Redesign project since July 17, 2023. Anson Contractors, Inc. has been
effective and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are
requesting to approve the contract amendment to add the costs
associated with Change Order #7.
The contractor has submitted Change Order #7 in the amount of
$87,605.09 to cover these unexpected costs. The new contract price will
be increased to $3,378,656.95 after the addition of the $87,605.09
included in this change order.
The cost of this change order is $87,605.09. There are sufficient funds in
the Austin Chaney Site Redesign capital budget to cover this expense.
24-561Change Order - Detention Center Painting Project
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
The original scope of work for the project was reduced when bid to lower
costs considering discussions surrounding the potential approval of a new
Detention Center. The reduction in scope included a significant reduction
in the areas to be painted and removed painting cell walls and floors as
well as other specialty holding and program areas. Given that the new
Detention Center will take several years to complete once approved, the
UC Sheriff’s Office requested that the original scope be restored.
Approval of this change order will eliminate future inmate transfer costs
when future painting may be required. Union County Sheriff’s Office and
Facilities Management staff recommend approval of costs for the
increased scope of work and associated costs included in the change
order.
The breakdown of painting costs included in the change order request is
below:
Jail cell walls and ceilings (96 total) $176,160.00
Jail cell floor epoxy (96 total) $82,848.00
Telephone rooms (2 total) $6,770.00
Special handling cell (8 total) $21,440.00
Solitary confinement/group holding floors$3,470.00
Total $290,688.00
Facilities Management has utilized the contractual services of H.C.
Rummage for construction services on the Detention Center Painting
project since June 17, 2024. H.C. Rummage has been effective and
efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are requesting to approve
the contract amendment to increase the scope of work as detailed in this
request.
The contractor has submitted Change Order #1 in the amount of
$290,688.00 to cover the costs associated with the increased scope. The
original contract price was $213,050.00 and with this change order will
increase by $290,688.00 to $503,738.00.
The cost of this change order is $290,688.00. There are sufficient funds
in capital account 40080112 - Jail Paint Block Walls and Floors to cover
this expense.
24-562 Task Order - Architectural Services for Fairview Fire Training Tower
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
This request is to approve task order 2024-01 for Progressive
Architecture Engineering, P. C. to provide architectural services for the
new Fairview Fire Training Tower project. The project is anticipated to
include sitework, structural footing systems, a pre-engineered fire training
structure, site lighting, parking and circulation paving, and utilities as
needed. It will be located immediately adjacent to the rear of the new
Fairview Fire Station. The total budget for the project is planned to be
$800,000.00.
Progressive Design was selected as one of the County’s On-Call
Architectural Design teams for various capital projects. Staff has
recommends approval of task order 2024-01 in the amount of
$78,730.00.
The cost of the services provided within this task order is $78,730.00 and
there are sufficient funds in the Fire Training capital account, 40080176,
to cover the expense.
24-564Contract - Architectural Services to Complete Union County Jail
Study
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreementconsistent with this agenda item.
This request is to approve a contract with Little Diversified Architectural
Consultants to complete a comprehensive space needs and
programming study for a new Union County Jail facility. The purpose of
this study is to ascertain the improvements needed to maximize the
efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal justice system, and in turn, to
guide a sensible plan regarding the future of the jail facility. The scope of
the study will include stakeholder interviews, and criminal justice system data
analysis, evaluation of incarceration alternatives, projection model
scenarios, program development, operational philosophy and scenario
development, functional component descriptions, space allocations,
staffing and operational cost models and a comprehensive report of
findings and recommendations.
The study scope accounts for the involvement of the project stakeholders
including the County Sheriff, Jail Administrator, County Commissioners,
County Administration, Local Law Enforcement Agencies, Judiciary/Court
Administration, County Attorney, Public Defender and Union County
Health & Human Services.
The Facilities and Fleet Management Department partnered with the
Procurement Department to issue Request for Qualifications No.
2024-043, Architectural Services, Union County Jail Project. On
November 30, 2023 three (3) qualifications packages were received and
reviewed by an evaluation team in accordance with applicable evaluation
criteria for this project. The top two (2) firms were invited to shortlist
interview/presentations. As a result, the team requests approval to enter
into a contract with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, Inc. Staff
recommends the Board approve the contract with Little Diversified
Architectural Consulting, Inc. the amount of $126,000.00 to complete a
comprehensive space needs and programming study.
The cost of this contract is $126,000.00. There are sufficient funds in the
UC Jail Alternatives for Expansion and Design capital account, 40080188,
to cover this expense.
24-499 Agreement - Forest Management Practices
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager’s discretion.
The County has entered into an agreement with the N.C. Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services for Forest Management practices.
The State provides 60 percent of the funding in the amount of $142,643
and the County pays 40 percent and an additional 16 percent for Forest
Fire Equipment Operator, for the sum of $102,253.00 annually. Per the
agreement, the State is responsible for employing the following positions:
A) 1 County/Area Ranger(s) assigned for the purposes of controlling
forest fires in said County; for detecting and extinguishing fires that break
out, for investigating the origin of forest, woodland, and field fires; for
enforcing the State’s Forest fire laws; for taking such preventive
measures, educational and otherwise, to prevent forest fires; for
developing and improving the forests through reforestation, promotion,
and practice of Forest Management practices; and for protection of
forests from insects and diseases.
B) 1 Assistant County Ranger(s) for the purposes of assisting under the
direction, supervision, and/or oversight of the County/Area Ranger in
controlling forest fires in said County, for detecting and extinguishing fires
that break out; for investigating the origin of forest, woodland, and field
fires; for enforcing the State’s Forest fire laws; for taking such preventive
measures, educational and otherwise, to prevent forest fires; for
developing and improving the forests through reforestation, promotion,
forests from insects and diseases.
C) 0.11 Forestry Management Clerk for purposes of providing
administrative support, serving as the back-up administrative contact for
the assigned district, counties within the district, or unit, and serving as
the primary contact for forest management administrative business within
the assigned district.
D) 0.16 Forest Fire Equipment Operator(s) for purposes of establishing
fire suppression control lines in assigned work areas and in other areas
as needed using equipment, including crawler tractors (fire dozers), with
various attachments, such as a fire plow, hurricane blades, etc., and
operate and maintain all types of heavy site preparation equipment.
E) Temporary position(s) on an as-needed basis.
The County's share of the agreement ($102,253.00) is included in the FY
2024-2025 budget.
24-503Revised FY2025 Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG)
for Older Adults
ACTION:Approved the revised FY25 Home and Community Block Grant (HCCBG)Funding Plan for Union County.
On June 17, 2024, the BOCC authorized the County Manager to approve
the FY25 HCCBG contract with Centralina for $1,299,135, which includes
$1,148,163 in block grant funding, a required local match of $127,572,
and $23,400 NSIP (USDA) subsidy based on reimbursement of $0.80 per
eligible Senior Nutrition meal. The final Federal and State budgets were
approved after this Board action resulting in a budget increase of $8,012
($7,211 of HCCBG and $801 local match) beyond what the BOCC
approved at its June 17th meeting.
The BOCC appointed HCCBG Advisory Committee voted to recommend
these additional funds be split equally between the County’s Human
Services Agency, the Council on Aging, and the City of Monroe’s
Bazemore Active Adult Center.
Attached is an amended FY25 HCCBG funding plan. The total FY25
Adopted Budget Ordinance was slightly larger than the original FY25
funding plan based on expected increases from FY24, therefore no
budget amendment is needed to appropriate the amended funding plan
to proper revenue and expenditure accounts.
$7,211 increase in estimated HCCBG grant revenue. Additional local
matching funds will be covered by eligible funding sources in the County’s
FY25 Adopted Budget for the Human Services Agency and Council on
Aging portion, and in the City of Monroe’s FY2025 budget for the
Bazemore Center portion.
24-515Budget Amendment - Additional Funding for Clinical Capacity
Building
ACTION:1) Recognized, receive, and appropriate $23,125.50 in additional fundingfrom Community Care of North Carolina, Inc (CCNC) and 2) approved
Budget Amendment #3.
The Union County Public Health Department has been provided with a
Capacity Building Grant Award in the amount of $23,125.50 from
Community Care of North Carolina, Inc. (CCNC). The purpose of this
funding is to further CCNC’s mission to improve the health and quality of
life of all North Carolinians by building and supporting better
community-based health care delivery systems. The funding will be used
by the Health Department to support immunization clinics, interpreting
support for public health clinics, medical provider electronic prescribing
capacity and other medical supplies/materials. This one-time funding
covers one year through June 2025.
Union County is awarded $23,125.50 from Community Care of North
Carolina, Inc., with no County match required.
24-539 Contract - Child Support Enforcement
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
DSS is statutorily responsible for providing child support enforcement
services. Union County DSS uses Veritas HHS, LLC to meet this
requirement. Veritas has been an excellent partner in providing child
support enforcement services for our county.
The Procurement Department partnered with the Union County Department
of Social Services to issue a Request for Proposal 2024-069 Child
Support Enforcement Services. On April 17, 2024, two proposals were
received and reviewed by an evaluation team in accordance with
applicable evaluation criteria for this project. As a result, the team
requests approval to enter into a contract with the top scoring/ranked
preferred offeror, Veritas HHS, LLC to provide Child Support Enforcement
service(s). This contract has an initial term of three years with two,
one-year renewal options at the sole discretion of the County and is
subject to annual budget appropriation.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $1,217,086. Since this
contract contains an initial term of three years with two one-year renewal
options, a total of $6,085,430 is estimated to be spent. Funding is
available in the adopted FY2025 budget appropriation with future
expenditures subject to annual BOCC budget appropriation.
24-541 Contract Renewal - Interpreting Services
ACTION:Authorize the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
Language interpreter services are a necessary component of the work of
the Human Services Agency and supports our compliance with Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Agency utilizes services from AMN
Healthcare Language services to provide on-demand video remote
interpreting (VRI) for American Sign Language (ASL) and selected
spoken languages, as well as over-the-phone interpreting (OPI) for
selected languages with live language interpreters. We are seeking
approval to continue the services under this contract.
The Department of Public health has utilized the contractual services of
AMN Healthcare Language Services for healthcare language services
since January 2017. AMN Healthcare Language Services has been
effective and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are
requesting to continue this service for an additional one year term.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $150,000.00 and is
budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-550 Grant Application - N.C. Dental Society Foundation
ACTION:1) Approved Public Health’s request to apply for N.C. Dental Society
Foundation funding, 2) upon award of the funding, authorize the County
Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent
with this agenda item, and 3) upon receipt of grant award, recognize,
receive, and appropriate the awarded amount to Public Health’s budget.
The N.C. Dental Society Foundation is accepting applications for funding
for a Dental Public Health Award of $1,500 and an Endowment Grant of
$5,000 to further meet oral health needs in North Carolina. Both awards
are considered through a single application process. The Human
Services Agency’s Public Health Dental Clinic requests approval to apply
for these funds to support the provision of dental care services for
patients who have financial challenges receive necessary care. The
deadline for submitting an application is August 16, 2024.
The County’s Dental Clinic provides general dentistry services and
education to residents who may have difficulty obtaining dental care due
to financial needs or access to other providers. The clinic provides
services for adults and children beginning at 1 year of age. The clinic
accepts Medicaid, third-party insurance and private pay on a sliding-fee
scale based on income. In FY2024, the clinic had 3,278 patient visits;
61% were uninsured/private pay.
Anticipated funding will be $1,500 or $5,000 depending on the award.
selection approval. No County match is required.
24-563Bid Award - Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment
ACTION:1) Accepted the low bidder and authorize award of the contract to PlaycoreWisconsin Inc. dba GameTime in the amount of $802,393.53, 2)
authorize the County Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement
substantially consistent with this agenda item, and 3) adopt resolution
providing notice of construction for the Jesse Helms Park Playground
Equipment project.
Union County Parks & Recreation staff completed a Master Plan for
Jesse Helms Park in 2023. A section of the Master Plan recommends
continued development of play areas for the guests of the facility. Staff
determined the need for additional play structures at the facility and
located the space required for this project. This project will be considered
a destination playground for Union County Parks & Recreation and will
provide more recreational opportunities for more residents of Union
County.
On April 30, 2024, the Procurement and Contract Management
Department partnered with Parks & Recreation to issue an Invitation for
Bid IFB 2024-071 Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment. On July 9,
2024, two (2) bids for the title project were received. Since a minimum of
three bids were not received; the project was readvertised. On July 19,
2024, two (2) bids were received and processed for the title project. All
bids were tabulated, reviewed, and certified by Parks & Recreation. The
bids ranged from $802,393.53 to $1,010,229.07. Staff recommends that
the project be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder,
Playcore Wisconsin Inc. dba GameTime, in the amount of $802,393.53.
Funding is available within the adopted FY 2025 Budget to support the
construction contract amount of $802,393.53.The Bids received are as follows:Playcore Wisconsin, Inc. d/b/a Game Time$802,393.53Great Southern Recreation, LLC
$1,010,299.07
RESOLUTION OF THE UNION COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PROVIDING NOTICE OF JESSE HELMS PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT
PROJECT CONSTRUCTION
WHEREAS, pursuant to G.S § 153A‐457, a county shall notify property owners and adjacent property owners prior to commencement of any construction project by the county; and
WHEREAS, G.S. § 153A‐457 provides that notice of a county construction project is deemed sufficient if notice of the construction project is given in any open meeting of the county prior
to the commencement of the construction project; and
WHEREAS, the Union County Board of Commissioners desires to give notice of construction of the Jesse Helms Park Playground Equipment prior to commencement of project construction as
required by G.S. § 153A‐457.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE Union County Board of Commissioners that:
1. Union County may commence construction of the Jesse Helms Park Playground
Equipment on property as shown on the attached map after the award date of the
construction contract for the project.
2. This resolution and notice is adopted in accordance with the construction notice
requirements of G.S. § 153A‐457.
Adopted this the 12th day of August, 2024.
Attest:
s/Lynn West s/J.R. Rowell
Clerk to the Board Chair Union County Board of Commissioners
24-536Purchase - Compactors for New Austin Chaney Waste & Recycling
Site
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
4 self-contained compactors for waste and recycling materials at the new
Austin Chaney Waste & Recycling Site.
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of the 4 compactors will be made using a Group Purchasing
Program, Sourcewell Contract #040621-MEC as quoted by Becker
Complete, LLC. The Procurement Department has vetted this contract
and purchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the 4 compactors is $137,528.00 and is budgeted
accordingly for FY2025.
24-537 Purchase - Compactor Wheels
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
(4) 826K compactor paddle tip wrap wheels. The compactor is a vital
piece of equipment used at our construction and demolition landfill.
N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(3) and N.C.G.S 143-129(e)(9) allow local
governments to make purchases through a competitively bid North
Carolina Statewide Term Contract or a Group Purchasing Program. The
purchase of the 4 826K compactor paddle tip wrap wheels will be made
using Group Purchasing Program, Sourcewell contract #011723-CAT as
quoted by Carolina CAT. The Procurement Department has vetted this
contract and purchase amount.
The anticipated cost for the 4 - 826K Compactor wheels is $64,557.20
and is budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-519Compensation Adjustment for the Register of Deeds
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to take such action as necessary to
provide an increase in compensation of $3,780 to the Register of Deeds,
retroactive to June 29, 2024.
Pursuant to G.S.153A-92(a), the Board of Commissioners shall fix or
approve the schedule of pay, expense allowance and other compensation
of all county officers and employees, whether elected or appointed. Any
increase in the compensation of elected officials (Register of Deeds) is
done so at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners.
No additional funding required. Sufficient funding is included in the
FY2025 budget.
24-566Code Enforcement Legal Services Additional Position Request and
Position Renaming in County Attorney’s Office
ACTION:1) Authorized the addition of two FTEs (full-time equivalency) in the CountyAttorney’s Office for the following job classifications:
· 1 Assistant County Attorney
· 1 Paralegal;
2) Update the Pay and Classification plan to include new job
classifications as follows:
· Senior Assistant County Attorney - Pay Grade S
· Assistant County Attorney - Pay Grade Q;
3) Update the Pay and Classification plan to remove the following job
classifications:
· Senior Staff Attorney - Pay Grade S
· Staff Attorney - Pay Grade Q; and
4) Adopt Special Revenue Ordinance 94E and Budget Amendment 4.
For litigation related to enforcement of Building Code, Zoning/Planning,
Environmental Health, and solid waste code violations, the County has
historically contracted with outside counsel to provide such legal services.
However, due to the increasing volume of enforcement cases and time
needed to address these issues, bringing these enforcement litigation
services in-house will provide overall benefit to the County and reduce
costs. This change will provide improved budget stability, increased
efficiency, and strengthened communication and collaboration
opportunities. The monetary savings yielded by shifting away from the
contract legal services model will fully fund the new positions, allow for
significantly decreased hourly legal service costs, and increase the
County’s ability to meet the increasing volume of enforcement cases in a
cost-effective manner.
The positions will be funded through ARPA Investment Earnings in FY25.
In future fiscal years, the positions will be funded through inspections
department fees and projected reduction in expenses for contracted
outside counsel. The positions will be filled, trained, and deployed as
soon as practicable while taking into account department and service
transition needs. No new funding is required for these positions and is
projected to reduce overall expenses.
Additionally, to conform the titles of attorneys in the County Attorney’s
office with that of the County Attorney and to allow proactive resolution of
questions on court pleadings, settlement documents, and external
negotiations, this item also clarifies that the title and authority of internal
legal counsel for the County. These positions will be revised from “Staff
Attorney” and “Senior Staff Attorney” to “Assistant County Attorney” and
“Senior Assistant County Attorney,” respectively.
The County will also make corresponding revisions to existing external
and internal communications to provide greater consistency and public
clarity.
No new funding required. Existing funding in ARPA Investment Earnings
has been identified within the FY25 budget for this request.
24-524 June 2024 NCVTS Motor Vehicle Tax ReportACTION:ApprovedJune 2024 NCVTS Motor Vehicle Tax Refund Report.
The refunds included in this report represent adjustments made to tax
bills that resulted in refunds of motor vehicle taxes paid under the Tax
and Tag Together program operated jointly between the counties and the
State.
24-553Annual Tax Settlement FY 2023-2024
ACTION:Approved the reports of 2023 delinquent taxpayers and annual settlementas requested.
North Carolina General Statutes require Tax Collectors to make several
reports to the governing body after the close of the fiscal year.
The first report is a list of real property taxpayers whose taxes are unpaid
and for which the unpaid taxes are secured by a lien against their real
property. The reports related to real property taxes are on the advertising list
often seen in the newspaper modified by the deletion of property owners
who have paid their taxes between the advertising date and the date of
the settlement report.
The second report is a list of those outstanding taxes that are not secured
by liens against real property. These taxes are assessed against personal
property owned by persons who owned no real property at the time the
personal property was listed and are on file in the County Clerk’s Office.
The third report is the annual settlement. North Carolina General Statutes
require the Tax Collector to make such a report after July 1st, but before
the collector is charged with the collections of taxes for the current year.
The form of the settlement reflects various charges (initial billing,
discoveries, late listing, interest, etc.) and credits (sums deposited,
releases, etc.) The charges and credits are required to balance. The
Union County Finance Division independently confirms the accuracy of
the report.
For the fiscal year ending June 28,2024, the unaudited overall collection
rate on all County property taxes was 99.88%.
See Exhibit “A” attached hereto.
24-556 Write Off of 2014 Uncollected Fire Fees
ACTION:Approved the write off for the 2014 uncollected fire fees as requested.
Under NCGS 105-378, property taxes and certain fees associated with
those taxes are no longer eligible for enforced collection remedies after
10 years. In deference to this statute, the Tax Collector requests on an
annual basis that all taxes and fees older than 10 years be approved for
write off by the Board of Commissioners.
24-558 Order of Collection Tax Charge for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
ACTION:Approved the Order of Collection Tax Charge for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
NCGS 105-321 requires the governing board of each taxing unit to issue
an order of collection to Tax Collectors at the time the receipts are
delivered to them. This order constitutes the collector's authority to collect
taxes and to exercise the various powers incident to the collection
process. The order gives rise to a specific lien on the real estate listed on
the books, plus the power to levy upon or attach any of the taxpayer's
personal property. Failure to issue the order of collection may invalidate
the tax collector's remedies for enforced collection. The order of collection
does not include public service companies or motor vehicles. Those
property classifications are either billed monthly or based on information
provided separately by the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
24-559FY2023-24 Tax Bill Correction Report for June 2024
ACTION:
In accordance with North Carolina General Statutes 102-312 and
105-325, the Board of County Commissioners is authorized to make and
approve certain changes to property tax records. Approval of such
changes may result in either a release, refund, or discovery of ad valorem
taxes. The attached report provides detailed information on all tax bills
that were modified. Included in the report for each correction is the parcel
number or property key, owner name, reason for the change, original
value, original tax, corrected value, corrected tax, and refund, if
applicable.June Refund amount = $2,903.63
24-529 Resolution - Surplus Vehicle Sale
ACTION:Adopted Resolution Authorizing Surplus Property Sale by Internet Auctionwhich 1) declares the property itemized on Attachment A as “Surplus” tothe needs of Union County, 2) authorizes
sale at electronic auction of the
surplus property described in Attachment A as per the terms and
conditions as specified in the online auction service provider contract, and
3) authorizes the Procurement Director or her designee to execute any
and all documents necessary to transfer title to said property on behalf of
Union County.
North Carolina General Statutes allow the disposition of personal property
by local governments through a variety of means including private
negotiations and sale; advertisement for sealed bids; negotiated offer,
advertisement, and upset bid; public auction; or exchange. In 2001, the
legislature amended the Statues to provide for disposition of property
through electronic auction.
The sale will begin August 13, 2024, at 9:00 AM and end August 23,
2024, with incremental closings as indicated on Attachment A.
The vehicles are to be picked up at 610 Patton Avenue, Monroe, NC with
the following terms of sale:
Sale to the highest bidder with all sales final.
2. All items sold “as is” with no warranty, expressed or implied, which
extends beyond the description of the item.
3. Purchasers must remove vehicles(s) within ten (10) business days
from the time and date of issuance of the Buyer’s Certificate.
4. Payment must be made online though the online auction website.
Payment in full is due not later than five (5) business days from the time
and date of the Buyers Certificate. Payment will not be accepted onsite.
Estimated revenue is $40,000. The revenue will be returned to the fund
from which the asset came.
24-540 Contract Renewal - EA Software Subscription Service
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
As part of the County's commitment to enhancing productivity and
ensuring our team has access to the latest tools, we propose the renewal
of our annual Microsoft 365 subscription. This subscription provides
essential services such as email, cloud storage, and collaborative
software, which is integral to the County's daily operations. In addition to
the renewal of UC Water is purchasing 25 G5 licenses. Planning and
Resource Management will be using these additional licensing for both
migration of current dashboards to county instances, and continued
development of their organizational visualization, including Operational
Metrics, Engineering Program Dashboards, and AMI Analysis. The
elevated licensing will also aid in further development opportunities for
better data management, data assurance, and workflow development.
The Information Technology Department has utilized the contractual
services of SHI International for its Microsoft EA since July 2017. SHI
International has been effective and efficient in meeting our service
needs, and we are requesting to continue this service for an additional 12
months.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $741,727.03 and is
budgeted accordingly for FY2025.
24-545 Contract Renewal - Fleet Management Software
ACTION:Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreementsubstantially consistent with this agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal orextension term options set forth
in the Agreement, and 3) terminate theAgreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the
County Manager's discretion.
Fleet is seeking to extend the Hiperweb Fleet Management Software
Agreement for one year provided by PSD Software. The cost for the
one-year agreement will be $11,521.65. Hiperweb Fleet Management is
provided by PSD Software LLC.
The Facilities and Fleet Management Department has utilized the
contractual services of PSD Software LLC for Fleet Management
Software since August 13, 2014. PSD Software LLC has been effective
and efficient in meeting our service needs, and we are requesting to
continue this service for an additional one-year.
The anticipated annual cost for this service is $11,521,65 and is budgeted
accordingly, for FY2025.
24-551Union County Public Schools (UCPS) Forest Hills High and East
Elementary 2023 Bond Premiums and Investment Earnings Project
Request
ACTION:Adopted Capital Project Ordinance #321B
At the UCPS Board of Education (BOE) meeting on July 9th, 2024, the
BOE approved a request to the Board of County Commissioners to use
bond premiums and bond investment earnings generated from the 2023
School GO Bonds (2023 Bonds) for projects at Forest Hills High School
and East Elementatry School.
Bond premiums and investment earnings generated on the 2023 Bonds
are restricted for only projects located at Forest Hills High School and
East Elementary School as outlined in the Bond Order adopted for the
2022 Bond Referendum.
No additional financial impact. Funding is available from bond premiums
in the amount of $12,175,000 and bond investment earnings of
$2,452,000.
Information Only
24-523 Tax Collector’s Departmental Report for June 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information Only.
This report reflects the totals of all tax transactions within the Tax
Collector’s Office for the month of June 2024 as required by NCGS
105-350(7).
24-526Human Resources Reports for June 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
These reports include all new hires, separations from service, and
retirements for Union County Local Government for the month of June
2024.
24-527 Tax Refunds, Releases and Prorations Approved by Finance Officer
ACTION: No action requested. Information only.
On September 8, 2020, the Board of Commissioners adopted a
Resolution Delegating Authority for Tax Releases and Refunds of less
than $100 to Union County's Finance Officer. The resolution and NC GS
105-381(b) require such refunds to be reported to the Board regarding
actions taken on requests for releases or refunds. All such actions shall
be recorded in the Board's minutes. NC GS 105-330.6 authorizes the tax
collector to direct an order for a tax refund of prorated taxes to the county
finance officer related to surrendering of registered motor vehicle plates.
The finance officer shall issue a refund to the vehicle owner. The
attached report is for June 2024 NCVTS releases and refunds less than
$100 and prorations approved by the finance officer.
*See Exhibit “A” attached hereto and made a part of these minutes.
24-528Contract Report April - June 2024
ACTION: No action requested. Information only.
Per Section XVIII of the FY 2024 adopted Operating and Capital BudgetOrdinance, the contract report lists executed contracts and purchase
orders that were entered into by the County Manager or Procurement
designee from April through June 2024.
*See Exhibit “B” attached hereto and made a part of these minutes.
24-547 Monthly Update - Wastewater Treatment Capacity
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
Union County Water is closely monitoring the wastewater treatment
capacities at our Water Reclamation Facilities. Permitting Capacity is
evaluated using the Actual Plant Flows plus the Permitted/Obligated
Flows (unconnected). Union County Water was asked to provide regular
updates. Plant flow information through June 2024 is summarized in the
attached table.
Twelve Mile Creek
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) =6.668
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 88.9%
Crooked Creek
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 1.637
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 86.1%
Olde Sycamore
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.046
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 30.7%
Tallwood
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.022
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 44.0%
Grassy Branch
· Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD) = 0.046
· Percent of Permitted Flow Used = 92.0%
In addition to the wastewater treatment capacities, flow volumes
associated with development projects that are in the planning and review
process within the Twelve Mile Creek and Crooked Creek WRF service
areas are provided for information as well. Development flow volumes
through June 2024 are summarized in the tables below.
24-552 Union County Emergency Medical Services (UC EMS) Financial
Statements for FY 2024
ACTION:No action requested. Information only.
The UC EMS Financial Statements and Supplementary Information
includes statements for year ending 2024.The statements and schedules
are prepared on a modified accrual basis. The submittal of the UC EMS
Financial Statements is in accordance with the UC EMS agreement.
Business
24-549 Renaming the Board’s Conference Meeting Room
Chairman Rowell recognized Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms to present this item.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that August 8th marked one year since the passing of Commissioner Rushing. He mentioned that Commissioner Merrell, himself, and others in Union County
had discussed the idea of renaming the meeting room for nearly a year. He said he believed it was fitting to bring the item up for consideration at this meeting
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms reflected that just over a year ago, Union County lost a great commissioner, Stony Rushing. He stated that Commissioner Rushing was elected four times, with
his first term being from December 2, 2002, to December 4, 2006, during which he served as Vice Chair in his first year. After stepping away from politics, Commissioner Rushing returned
to serve a second term from December 1, 2014, to December 3, 2018, holding the roles of Vice Chair in 2014 and Chair in 2015. He said that Commissioner Rushing was re-elected for two
more terms, in 2018 and again in 2022, when he served as Chair from December 2022 until his passing.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that had Commissioner Stony Rushing lived to complete his last term, he would have been the second longest tenured Commissioner in Union County’s
history. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms shared that Commissioner Rushing was always proud to represent Union County as a commissioner, dedicating much of his life to serving its residents,
but it wasnot just the county that lost something when he passed; we all did. Vice Chairman Helms noted that Commissioner Rushing’s wife, Anne-Marie, lost a husband; his children, Riley
and Reagan, lost their father; and his father, Rocky, lost a son. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms concluded that he, along with others on the Board, lost a friend, a mentor, and a brother.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms remembered Commissioner Stony Rushing as a true champion for the people of Union County who inspired many. He noted that Commissioner Rushing touched the
lives of all of us. He stated that not everyone always agreed with Commissioner Rushing and everything that he said, but that did not bother Commissioner Rushing at all. He said he
had a passion for this county, and he remained committed to his convictions and his passion for the county.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms pointed out Commissioner Rushing’s legacy, stating that the work that he started has not stopped and that as long as there are people still willing to fight
for the values that are important to Union County, Commissioner Rushing will live on. Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms expressed his hope that renaming the conference room as the Commissioner
Stony D. Rushing Boardroom will serve as a reminder to all current commissioners and future commissioners to serve with the same passion and love for the people as did Commissioner Rushing.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms thanked Anne-Marie, Rocky, and the Rushing family for their support, recognizing the sacrifices they made. He moved to adopta resolution naming the Union
County Board ofCommissioners’ conference meeting room the Commissioner Stony D. Rushing Boardroom.
Chairman Rowell asked if there was discussion on the motion and expressed his gratitude to the Rushing family for its support recognizing the sacrifices made for Commissioner Rushing’s
long service on the Board. He expressed that while renaming the room wouldnot bring Commissioner Rushing back, his memory would live on, with future generations remembering him when
meeting in the room.
Commissioner Baucom shared his personal connection withCommissioner Rushing saying that Commissioner Rushing was his younger first cousin and expressed his support for the motion. Commissioner
Baucom shared that he admiredCommissioner Rushing’s determination and was impressed by his ability to stand and represent what he believed in, even when it sometimes left him positions
where he stood alone. Commissioner Baucom concluded by saying he appreciated what Commissioner Rushinghas done for the county and would definitely support the motion.
Commissioner Merrell said that she believed that renaming the boardroom is the right and appropriate thing to do for someone who has selflessly and under many attacks and criticism never
wavered once in his passion in serving Union County. She recalled meeting Commissioner Rushing in 2014 when he came out of political retirement to run again, describing him as a champion
for Union County who encouraged others to get on the bus and get to work for “Sweet Union.” She clarified that, while a lot of people think that she and Commissioner Rushing agreed on
everything, they did not agree on everything. She said they always had respect for each other and worked together for the good of the county. Commissioner Merrell expressed that despite
the loss of one of the best friends that she has ever had, it was a great honor to be able to vote and support this tonight.
Following the discussion, the motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-543 Consider a “STEP 2” Economic Development Incentive Grant for
BFS Operations LLC dba Builders FirstSource (Project TEMPER) in
an Amount not to Exceed $104,500 over a Five-Year Period
Chairman Rowell recognized Ron Mahl to present this item.
Mr. Mahl offered that both he and Mr. Greene were available to answer any questions regarding the item.
Commissioner Merrell asked about the company’s operations in Union County.
Mr. Mahl responded that the company operates two locations in Monroe and one in Indian Trail.
Commissioner Merrell asked Mr. Mahle if he knew of any environmental concerns, penalties, or violations at the three Union County locations over the past 25 years.
Mr. Mahl responded that he was not aware of any environmental concerns in these locations.
Commissioner Merrell asked if BFS Operations, LLC, would be opening a new location or operating in an existing location that has never had an environmental concern.
Ron Mahl confirmed that BFS Operations, LLC will be adding equipment to an existing location, and to his knowledge, there have never been any issues.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to 1) award a STEP 2 Economic Development incentive grant in an amount not to exceed $104,500 over a five year period and 2) authorize the county manager
to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item.
The motion passed with a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-518 Rezoning Petition CZ-2023-002 VL Properties
Chairman Rowell recognized Bjorn Hansen, Senior Planner, to address the item.
Mr. Hansenstated that this is the decision portion of the proposed rezoning for CZ 2023-002 VL Properties. He reminded the board that a public hearing was conducted in July regarding
the rezoning of approximately three acres off NC 218 to amend the conditions associated with a previous rezoning, allowing for the development of a countertop fabrication facility and
showroom. He noted that during the public hearing, several members of the public spoke against the proposal, raising concerns about runoff, groundwater contamination, and noise. Mr.
Hansen clarified that there was an error in his earlier presentation about the background of the rezoning. He initially believed it was related to an existing legal non-conforming use,
but it was actually a rezoning request from a business in Lancaster County wanting to relocate to this site.
Mr. Hansen said that the applicant and its contractor, who developed the site plan, are present to answer any questions.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed that while he didnot have a specific question, he shared some concerns raised by residents at the previous meeting which included noise, stormwater
runoff, traffic, and groundwater infiltration. He stated there was an additional concern regarding a pond that was filled in on the property, which is the proposed location for the building.
He noted that he was aware of nearby properties where similar site work had been done and had resulted in foundational and structural problems.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms also expressed concern about truck traffic, noting that the proposal indicated 20 percent of the traffic would be truck traffic. He pointed out that trucks
would be entering and leaving the location to pick up countertops, and the site is near the roundabout on NC 218. He also mentioned that the County’s Land Use Plan identifies the area
as rural residential. He said while he was all for business and economic growth in Union County, he personally did not believe this was the right location for this particular business.
Chairman Rowell asked if there were any further discussions or questions for Mr. Hansen.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to (i) deny rezoning petition CZ-2023-002 submitted by CESI CGS to rezone the property appearing on the Tax Map as parcel 08-036-025B in the Goose Creek
Township from B-4 with conditions to B-4 with Modified Conditions, and (ii) adopt the consistency and reasonableness statement for denial.
CONSISTENCY AND REASONABLENESS STATEMENT FOR DENIAL OF THE
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (THE PROPOSAL IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE
CURRENT PLAN) (CZ-2023-002)
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 160D-605, the Union County Board of Commissioners (the “Board”)does hereby find and determine that this rezoning petition is inconsistent with the Union CountyComprehensive
Plan (the “Plan”) and that denial of the proposed map amendment is reasonableand in the public interest because:
1. The proposed land use is inconsistent with the Plan, as the subject property isapproximately one mile from an identified commercial node in the adopted Plan.
2. The proposed land use will generate traffic impacts on nearby transportation systembeyond those expected from rural residential land uses recommended in the adopted Plan.
3. The development will reduce increase impervious surface, which can increase thepotential for increased stormwater runoff.
The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-502 Board Discussion - Union County Zoning and Development
Standards Pertaining to Lowering Rural Density
Chairman Rowell recognized County Manager Brian Matthews for this item.
Mr. Matthews explained that he and Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms spoke previously, and the Vice Chair brought up a desire to discuss with the Board the opportunity to gather more information
on how the County may address land use and development within the county, specifically in areas that are more rural in nature. He added that Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms had expressed
wanting to have a conversation about how the Board could potentially reduce the amount of density in those areas, and he invited Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms to describe the matter in
greater detail.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms expressed appreciation to the County Manager and shared that from firsthand experience that the Commissioners havereceived emails and phone calls from residents
of this County with concerns about density and growth, and these issues certainly affect everyone.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms emphasized that as representatives of the people, the Board cannot ignore residents' concerns. He highlighted the costs associated with growth, including
water and sewer infrastructure, law enforcement, EMS, fire departments, and the need for a new jail, which was recently addressed in the consent agenda for a study. He attributed these
challenges partly to rapid residential growth and increasing densities in unincorporated Union County.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms stated that Union County doesnot have unlimited funds to cover the costs associated with growth, emphasizing that the county’s funds come from taxpayers
and ratepayers. He noted that Union County sits at 90 percent residential and 10 percent everything else and stated that trajectory is simply not sustainable. Vice Chaiman Helms also
highlighted the importance of agriculture to the county, pointing out that farmers are expressing concerns about diminishing farmland.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms emphasized that zoning and land use are within the authority of theBoard, and it is about being good stewards to preserve the character of our great County.
He explained that the objective really isnot to stop growth, because there has to be some growth, and growth can never stop entirely but rather to better manage the County’s zoning and
development standards to lower density. He added it has to be growth that the County needs, and it has to be growth that preserves the rural character of the County. Vice Chairman Helms
pointed out that neighboring counties and municipalities have adopted strategies to mitigate increasing density, and he expressed interest in exploring similar options.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms said that he would recommend if his colleagues agreed to formally direct staff to bring back three to five options for the Board to consider that would potentially
reduce the density in the county. He stated that the Board could consider what is rightfor the County from those options and what would be the best fit. He added that the Boardcan
debate what the best strategy would be to lower the rural density. He said he believed that the worst thing that the Board could do at this point is to do nothing.
Chairman Rowell asked County Manager Brian Matthews if he could bring back the requested options for reducing density in the county.
Mr. Matthews confirmed that he could bring the requested options back to the board, but asked for a definitive time frame to complete the research and ensure they could meet the deadline.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms asked Mr. Matthews what a realistic time frame would be for completing the research and bringing the options back to the Board.
Mr. Matthews stated that he believedstaff could bring back options to the Board within 60 days or less, adding that while the Board could review the options at that time, further discussion
and decisions could follow.
Commissioner Baucom expressed his appreciation for the discussion, mentioning his background growing up in a farm family and now running a nursery. He acknowledged both sides of the
issue, noting that while he profits from construction to a degree, growth remains the top concern for many in the community. He highlighted the disappearing farmland as a major concern,
particularly in the eastern part of the county, and called the move to address density a responsible step.
Commissioner Merrell expressed agreement with Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms, stating that this conversation and challenge have been faced by previous boards. She noted, it is one thing
to continue to talk about the challenge, and she thought it was another thing to make the motion to start getting information on how to fix the problem. She fully supported the move
to gather more information, sayingshe supported this completely. She stated it is time to decide how to get a hold of this instead of just talking about the problem, finding some solutions.
Chairman Rowell acknowledged the actions already taken regarding farmland concerns, adding, however, more information is always better, and said he was certainly open to having more
information.
Mr. Matthews affirmed the importance of the issue and stated that staff recognizes this is an important issue. He pointed out that as part of the comprehensive plan that the Board adopted
some time ago, staff is in the middle of putting together a rural land use plan. He added that doesnot mean that these cannot run concurrently.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms moved to formally direct staff to bring back information to the Board of Commissioners regarding zoning and development standards pertaining to lower rural
density within a 60-day time frame.
The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chairman Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.
24-525 2025 Reappraisal Status Update
Chairman Rowell recognized Vann Harrell, Tax Administrator, concerning this item.
Mr. Harrellprovided an update on the 2025 reappraisal. He mentioned that they provided basic information during the budget workshop in the spring and now they are getting closer to the
end of the project. He said that he would review some of the same information that was provided in the spring but with more updated information regarding some of the numbers
Mr. Vann Harrell introduced Michael Thompson as the new Deputy Tax Administrator. He said that Robin Merryis retiring after 20 years with the county. He said Mr. Thompson is from Loudoun
County, Virginia, and has experience in several states, including Indiana and Texas.
He outlined four core concepts that guide the Tax Office’s work. Mr. Harrell emphasized the importance of treating taxpayers fairly and equitably, whether they are residential, business,
or industrial. He stated the need for compliance with North Carolina General Statutes, ensuring that all processes are in line with state law. Mr. Harrell noted that the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC) adopted a reappraisal cycle in 2021 to transition to a four-year cycle, aiming to alleviate significant increases in future reappraisals. He stressed the necessity
of adhering to industry standards and best practices, as promulgated by the Department of Revenue and the International Association of Assessing Officers.
Mr. Harrell explained that a reappraisal is essentially a systematic review of all properties in the county from a real estate standpoint. While motor vehicles, personal property, and
business personal property are valued annually, real estate follows a cycle determined by General Statutes. He stated that the office must comply with these statutes, and the reappraisal
process also helps to re-establish equity among taxpayers in the tax base. Mr. Harrell noted that as time passes from the last reappraisal, the equitable level of assessment may shift,
with some areas being over-assessed and others being under-assessed, and the goal is to re-establish that baseline and ensure that the values are reflective of the current real estate
market. He clarified that they are not projecting where property values will go but are instead adjusting them to match where the market has shifted since the last reappraisal date.
Mr. Harrell emphasized the importance of avoiding equalization, which is a process the State uses when the County's assessment levels fall below, which happened in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
He explained that if this happens, the State changes the values of a group of properties, lowering their assessments. He emphasized that more frequent reappraisals are needed to avoid
this process. He further outlined the timing options for reappraisals, stating that there are three options, with the first being an eight-year cycle, which is the maximum allowed. He
said the second option is a mandatory advancement, which the County has gone through two or three times due to varying growth rates. He stated that if the County’s assessment levels
drop too low, the State steps in and changes the values for public service companies.
Mr. Harrell continued by explaining that the third option for reappraisal is optional advancement, which the Board approved in 2021 to move the county to a four-year cycle. He presented
the timeline, which has not changed since February, noting that the County submitted its plan to the Department of Revenue in 2023. Mr. Harrell explained that a lot of work will occur
between January 2023 and October 2024. He said the plan is to present the schedule of values, hold a public hearing on it, and then have a meeting for its adoption of the schedule of
values. He stated that the effective date of the reappraisal will be January 1, 2025, with notices containing the new property values expected to go out to every property owner in Union
County around the end of February or early March 2025.
Mr. Harrell explained that after the reappraisal notices are sent, the Tax Administration team will return to the Board and other local organizations, including town councils, with an
update in the February/March 2025 timeframe. He added that the estimated deadline for appeals is May 2025.
Mr. Harrell explained that the Board of Equalization and Review will convene, as required by statute, on the first Monday in April. He stated that in a reappraisal year, the appeal
window remains open for 60 days after the board convenes. While the Tax Administration team works on appeals prior to that deadline, taxpayers cannot submit appeals again for the rest
of the calendar year.
He also clarified the concept of the uniform schedule of values, with which most people might not be familiar. Mr. Harrell described it as the office’s "cookbook", a comprehensive guide
or "recipe book" that outlines how different property types are valued, the range of rates for land valuation, it is an overall arching guideline for the appraisal process. He explained
that this guide serves as a framework for conducting reappraisals and has to fit in that box for the next four years.
Mr. Harrell transitioned into the main part of his presentation, focusing on the current market. He stated, on the effective date of the last reappraisal in 2021, the County’s sales
assessment ratio was 99.86 percent.
He stated the current median sales ratio, which is 65.94percent. Mr. Harrell explained thatit shows that the market the sales prices have gone above the assessed values by that percentage
point in totality across the county.
Mr. Harrell said the County’s median selling price between January 2023 and July 5th of this year was $450,000 per home. He stated that compared to 2021, when the median assessed value
after the reappraisal was $293,000, it is almost a $200,000 increase in the median price of a home.
He stated that the total sales volume for the total number of property transactions between 2021 and July of this year is 30,000 transactions. He explained that there could be multiple
transactions. He cited for examplethat there could be a transaction for the major lot and there could be individual transactions for each individual residential lot within that subdivision.
He added that it can also be a factor of multiple properties selling multiple times.
Mr. Harrell gave a brief look at the market by property type in Union County, stating, residential median sales price is $450,000, commercial median sales price is $650,000, and industrial
median sales price is just over a million dollars. He said vacant land is selling for approximately $78,000 an acre.
He also reflected on sales volume trends, explaining that 2020, 2021 was just a boom-or-bust mentality for real estate everywhere in the South, but especially in the Charlotte Metro
region. He stated that the number for 2024 is halfway through the year,and it is anticipated that it will be in line. He stated it has leveled off from a volume standpoint, and it
is anticipatedthat itwill continue for this year.
Mr. Harrell provided a breakdown of volume by jurisdiction within the county. He pointed outthere are three or four driving municipalities with Waxhaw and Monroe as having the highest
volumes, followed by Indian Trail and Stallings.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked if the data presented included residential, commercial, and industrial properties or just residential.
Mr. Harrell responded that it was total sales.
He shared the median sales prices by jurisdiction, highlighting that for the first time in Union County, there are two jurisdictions with a median sales price over a million dollars
per property. He noted that this information could also be provided as a handout.
Mr. Harrell stated that the residential sales ratio throughout the county is 65.79 percent, commercial sales ratio is 61.59 percent, and industrial sales ratio is just under 41 percent.
He explained that the value of industrial properties, which are typically land, has shifted significantly from the reappraisal date.
Mr. Harrell presented the sales ratio by jurisdiction, noting that the data had been shared in February, with some changes since that time. He explained, the ones highlighted in yellow
have actually come up a little, meaning they have moved closer, indicating that the sales prices that have occurred since February, as they vetted the sales, had shifted the ratio slightly
higher. He pointed out that the areas not highlighted have continued to decrease.
Mr. Harrell discussed the Wingate sales ratio, saying, it increased almost 20 percent. He clarified that the reason for this increase was a large single parcel land sale that occurred
in Wingate, in the Glen Croft subdivision where phase two was developed. He explained that the sales for the individual parcels were included in the initial February study but were compared
with a zero dollar value for assessment, because they were not active lots at that point in time. He explained that these were excluded in the updated data, which brought the ratio more
in line with the rest of the county.
Mr. Harrell reviewed the historical values assessed, starting from FY21, which was the year before the last reappraisal, through the past fiscal year. He outlined the total value of
residential, commercial, and industrial properties, along with the amount of property excluded or exempt from taxes, and the net real estate property tax base. Mr. Harrell also highlighted
the breakdown of residential areas compared to commercial and industrial properties within the county.
Mr. Harrell discussed the contributing factors to the changes. He stated, obviously, Union County is in proximity to a large metropolitan area. He said that the Charlotte region is still
one of the higher growth regions in the country, even three years post-COVID impact. He explained that housing supply and demand are still low in Union County, with a lot more demand
typically than the County has, which is keeping the prices up. Mr. Harrell said that there are still supply chain issues, citing a recent story from the Triangle area, where subdivisions
have been built out, people have bought their homes, but they cannot move in because power companies cannot get the substations.
Mr. Harrell discussed additional factors influencing property values, stating the cost of construction materials continues to rise and that contributes to the rising cost of home sales
prices. He stated interest rates are at an all-time high, but they are starting to come down.
Mr. Harrell addressed the public information campaign stating they will hold municipal meetings following this meeting. He said they are working on scheduling to make the same presentation
at every municipality in the county. He added that they would be updating their webpage with the Public Communications team to focus on the 2025 reappraisal and remove information from
the previous one. Additionally, Mr. Harrell mentioned plans for radio and newspaper interviews, as well as meeting with various civic groups throughout the county.
Mr. Harrell discussed tax relief options, noting that this is a common topic of conversation with taxpayers. He explained that the biggest single from an individual taxpayer standpoint
is the elderly disabled exclusion, and that it is a statutory program for which the County does not set the parameters. Mr. Harrell outlined the current requirements to qualify for
this exclusion: the taxpayer must be the property owner as of January 1st, be a North Carolina resident, and be 65 years of age or totally and permanently disabled. He clarified that
individuals under 65 can qualify if they have a medical disability. Mr. Harrell pointed out that the most common issue is the income limit, which is set at $37,900. He emphasized that
the income limit is based on household income, not individual income, and if the household exceeds this amount, they cannot qualify for the exclusion.
Mr. Harrell explained that there is a "marriage penalty" with the elderly and disabled exclusion, similar to what was once referred to in income taxes. He stated, if both spouses are
drawing Social Security, if they are $100 over this limit, they cannot qualify by statute. Mr. Harrell noted there have been proposed changes and shared that he is on the State Legislative
Committee for the Collectors and Assessors Associations. He explained they worked for two years to try to get legislation passed to change some of the requirements for the more urban
counties throughout the state. He said there are 12 counties that are primarily targeted.
Mr. Harrell shared that the most fair and equitable solution they have considered is tying the program as a second option to the HUD Social Services income requirements.He explained,
what they were considering was 60 percent of the HUD established AMI for a one or two-person household, depending on if it is a single resident or a married couple, or two residents
in the house that arenot married. He noted that for the area, this adjustment would raise the income threshold to just under $42,000 or $48,000, which they believe would bring in at
least 100 or more applicants per year that would qualify. He stated this does erode the tax base, but at the same time, it gives taxpayers who deserve it a break on their taxes. Mr.
Harrell stated the kicker on this is they were allowing for the greater of the existing threshold or this threshold, because some rural counties where he came from in northeastern North
Carolina, if it were raised to $47,800, probably 75 percent of the county would qualify if they are above age 65. He said this would be a huge hit for those counties, and that is the
reason for the resistance from the General Assembly.
Mr. Harrell requested the Board to consider adding a modification to this program as part of their legislative agenda. He said they have been asked by the North Carolina Association
of County Commissioners to request that Boardsof Commissioners request the General Assembly consider a modification to this program.
Mr. Harrell explained that there are other programs available, including the circuit breaker program, which is for those who do not meet the requirements for the elderly and disabled.
He noted, the problem with this one is it is a tax deferment; it is not a tax exemption or exclusion. He said it becomes a lien on the property. He added there are three homeowners
in the county right now who take advantage of this program.
Mr. Harrell pointed out that while the income limit for the circuit breaker program is significantly higher, many people are reluctant to use it because they donot want to leave that
burden for their kids or their relatives down the road.
Mr. Harrell explained that disabled veterans who are 100 percent disabled, as declared by the Veterans Administration, qualify for an exclusion of $45,000 on the value of their real
estate property, not the taxes themselves. He noted there is some work being done on this and said he is unsure where the General Assembly is going to come down on this one. He shared
that it has gone from full exemption to 50 percent and back to the$45,000.
He discussed the Present-Use Value (PUV) program. He said outside of the elderly, it affects every taxpayer. He said the PUV is the largest tax benefit program in the county.
Commissioner Merrell expressed her concern regarding the requirements for disabled veterans. She said in her work with veterans outside of this responsibility, some veterans might be
50or 75 percent disabled, but what she had heard Mr. Harrell sayis they have to be 100 percent disabled.
Mr. Harrell confirmed Commissioner Merrell's understanding was correct.
Commissioner Merrell asked if there was any current conversation going on in Raleigh other than being required to be 100 percent disabled. She said if a person is 50 or 75 percent disabled,
they are still disabled.
Mr. Harrell responded that he had not heard any conversation directly regarding the required percentageof disability. He said all he has been informed of is the percentage of relief,
whether it is a veteran, 50 or 100 percent. He said it is not aboutdisability, but it is about veteran status.
Commissioner Merrell asked for clarification that they had to be 100 percent disabled.
Mr. Harrell responded that under the current statute, they had to be 100 percent disabled. He added that the conversations that they have heard are that regardless of disability status,
a veteran would receive some kind of break. He stated that it has not been passed; it has been conversation and proposed by various representatives.
Commissioner Merrell asked Mr. Harrell to keep the Board updated because she is really interested in for those who have served our country.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms agreed with Commissioner Merrell’s concern and suggested that would be something else to add to the legislative agenda when the time comes, regarding disabled
veterans.
24-544 Contract - Ice Skating Rink Services
Chairman Rowell recognized Jim Chaffin, Parks and Recreation Director, for this item.
Jim Chaffin stated in his 25 plus years of parks and recreation in Union County, he never thought that he would be talking about operating an ice-skating rink in Union County.
He explained that when the ice-skating rink project was handed to Parks and Recreation, he believed as staff they did their due diligence in researching what the opportunity would be,
what it was going to provide, and could it be done with Parks and Recreation staff partnering with a couple of other folks within Union County? He said they believed it could be done.
Mr. Chaffin provided background for the project. He stated that in 2019, the Moser Group, along with Extreme Ice in Indian Trail, collaborated to set up a temporary ice-skating rink
at Sun Valley Commons, behind the Trail House and Sun Valley Café. He saidit was well-received but stopped due to Covid.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the main reason the Moser Group and Extreme Ice approached Union County was because they did not have the staff to operate the ice skating rink. He mentioned
that the rink would likely operate for 58 days, possibly eight hours each day.
Mr. Chaffin stated that after discussing the proposal with management, procurement, and finance, it was determined to include it in the budget to see what would happen. He noted that
the budget was approved, and now the teamwasfurther evaluating whether they want to follow through with it. He noted that the funding that was approved covers everything that would be
needed for the project.
Mr. Chaffin posed the question of why the ice-skating rink should be pursued, He highlighted that Parks and Recreation’s primary role is to offer recreational opportunities, and that
the rink provides a unique opportunity for residents. He added it also promotes health and fitness initiatives, as promoted by Parks and Recreation and the health departments. Additionally,
he noted that the rink would be open seven days a week to enjoy the ice-skating rink.
Mr. Chaffin said that the proposal covers both the inside and outside areas, including the ice itself, such as chillers, refrigeration units, water, lights, Christmas trees, and decorations.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the primary responsibility for the ice-skating rink project would be the operational aspects. He said that the Parks and Recreation’s outdoor recreation staff
would be responsible for setting the schedule for the staff to run the facility if the Board decides to move forward with the project. He stated that the County would be responsible
for the routine maintenance such as general daily upkeep and trash can management. He stated that larger maintenance itemswould be covered under the contract with Seasonal Ice Rinks.
Mr. Chaffin explained that Seasonal Ice Rinks had told them that reservations are important for this particular initiative. He shared that two of his staff members met with their Automated
Business Software team, which uses Rec Track for managing the campground, day area shelters, and other facilities. He said that they could add a module to their current reservation system
to track this as well.
Mr. Chaffin explained that managing the reservations would involve moving one of their point-of-sales (POS) systems, like the one in the gatehouse as people enter the area,to the location
of the ice rink. He stated this would allow them to manage the system without incurring any additional costs. He also mentioned working with legal on waiver liability forms and believes
that it will align with the requirements for their outdoor recreation programs and events.
He shared a picture of the location, highlighting Sun Valley Café, and the Trail House, as well as the area in front of the movie theater. He explained that the location was chosen because,
in 2019, Seasonal Ice Rinks invested heavily in installing the necessary infrastructure, including electrical and water systems. He noted that the County would be able to utilize this
existing infrastructure without incurring additional costs for infrastructure aspects.
Mr. Chaffin explained that if asked about Cane Creek Parks Campground's earnings, he could provide a close estimate based on historical data. However, this ice-skating rink is new. He
shared that they have based the financials on a bestcase scenario of 58 total operational days, with the only days the rink would be closed being Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
He said there would be six skating sessions per day, at one hour each, with a cost of $12 per person, and children three and under would skate for free.
Mr. Chaffin stated that the rink would operate initially with a maximum of 60 people on the ice at one time, and this number could fluctuate. He said the rink's dimensions are 50 feet
by 100 feet, but until they see how many people are actually on the ice, they would not know the exact capacity. He stated that starting with 60 people would equate to about 360 people
per day. He emphasized that weather would impact the success of the program, and if everything went perfectly for all 58 operational days with full ice usage, the total projected revenue
would be $250,560. However, he noted that this is a rough estimate.
Chairman Rowell asked Mr. Chaffin if the contract for the ice-skating rink had an initial term of one year with two one-year renewal options, and if the County could opt out after the
first year if the project did not go well.
Mr. Chaffin confirmed that Chairman Rowell's understanding was correct. He explained that the first year of the contract would cost $185,500, with subsequent years costing $150,000.
He explained the additional costs in the first year would be used to purchase materials needed for the rink. He said at the end of the contract, the contractor would store the materials,
andif the County decided to continue the project, the materials could be brought back the following year without incurring additional costs.
Commissioner Merrell expressed appreciation to Mr. Chaffin for the presentation and acknowledged that this project had been discussed with staff and the Moser group for a year and a
half. She shared that they had hoped to implement it last Christmas, but due to needing to get everything in order, it now looked like it will be ready for this coming Christmas. Commissioner
Merrell stated that when it comes to recreational activities during the off-season, particularly in the fall and winter months, she believed this would be a great opportunity for families
to do something fun together. She shared that when her children were young, they always had to travel to Cabarrus County or Mecklenburg County for similar activities. She expressed her
excitement over the possibility of keeping Union County families in Union County for this activity. Commissioner Merrell confirmed her support for the project.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed that he had many questions. He stated he was not opposed to ice skating rinks but noted that certain things in the information packet stuck out to
him. He shared his concern about liability and asked who would own the liability if somebody were to fall and get hurt, or need a hospital visit? He asked if Union County would be
assuming those liabilities.
Mr. Chaffin responded, asking Mr. Kay, the county attorney to possibly chime in on the liability question. He explained they would be using the standard indemnification form that is
utilized for all of the programs and events at Cane Creek, Jesse Helms, and Fred Kirby. He added he did not know if that changes with this particular scenario.
Jason Kay stated that they would try everything in their power to put legal documents in place that make certain that the liability for the rink rests with the operator and not with
the County itself.
Mr. Chaffin addressed the Vice Chair to saythat one of Mr. Kay’s staff members has already reviewed the initial contract and given the markups to Seasonal Ice Rinks, and it has accepted
all of those terms and conditions as well.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms stated that he read in the packet that the County would be responsible for security and asked for clarification regarding the type of resources that would be
needed and the type of security that would be used, such as Sheriff’s deputies or hiring private security.
Mr. Chaffin explained that the plan for security has not been fully developed yet and will depend on whether the project moves forward. He explained that the plan includes using a more
affordable security system, similar to what is currently in place at Fred Kirby Park. He also noted that Seasonal Ice Rinks and The Moser Group have assured them that there are plenty
of security cameras already installed at the nearby businesses, which would focus on the particular area. He said he did not foresee the County having to incur any more cost for an outside
vendor to provide security.
Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager, explained that when the proposal first came, they had a meeting with the town of Indian Trail, as the project is located within the town. He noted
that they initially saw this as a potential partnership between the town and the county. He mentioned that the town shared similar concerns to the Moser Group but lacked the seasonal
employee pool that the county has in place. Mr. Niland stated that the County is fortunate to have the summer seasonal employees. He added that a substantial number of people have
shown interest in working for the project. H said that the town had expressed willingness to help promote the initiative and coordinate efforts. He stated that he believes the town
will assist with security by providing some of the deputies currently assigned to the Indian Trail division.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked if the town of Indian Trail had committed any financial resources to making the project a success.
Mr. Niland responded that the Town of Indian Trail has not committed any financial resources to the project, although the Town supports it and want it to happen in their town.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms stated that after reviewing the financials, he noted that the total investment over three years is $485,000. He acknowledged that it could be broken up into
smaller amounts, such as $185,000 or $150,000 for the second year. However, he pointed out that it is a total investment of almost halfa million dollars. He expressed concern that there
is a lot of money and asked if there was any financial modeling from the years prior to COVID.
Mr. Chaffin shared that the only information provided by the Moser Group and Extreme Ice was that they broke even and made a small profit. He mentioned that the City of Rock Hill also
used Seasonal Ice Rinks, though he did not have those numbers available for the meeting. He added that they had reached out to Rock Hill to inquire about their performance last year,
but noted that comparing Union County to the City of Rock Hill downtown might not be apples to apples. Mr. Chaffin emphasized that his staff is prepared to do what is necessary to get
the project open and operational, pending the Board's decision.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked about the lease agreement with the Moser Group, seeking clarification on what it entails.
Mr. Chaffin confirmed that the lease agreement with the Moser Group is not included, and the amount mentioned to him for the lease is $1.
Mr. Niland stated that they would have to pay for the utilities for the electric to run the rink, but the Moser Group saidit would give the County the land because they support having
it there. He emphasized that the Moser Group obviously spent a lot of money on the infrastructure, He also mentioned that they had looked at doing this a few years ago at the special
event center in Wingate, but the infrastructure would have cost several hundred thousand dollars, which, at the time, didnot make any sense. Mr. Niland stated that while the Moser Group
has already invested that money, there would still be some ongoing costs they would need to cover.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms asked if there would have to be any additional hires to the Parks and Recreation staff.
Mr. Chaffin responded that all the staff members that would be needed are included in the approved budget. He added that they would always have at least one full-time staff member at
the facility. He explained that with eight Rangers on staff, one of them per week will be onsite with the seasonal staff.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helmssaid he had severe reservations because it is about $500,000 for six months, and he stated that he thought about what that half million dollars could do to Cane
Creek Park or Jesse Helms Park or some of the other facilities. He said he realized that it might generate some revenue, but it is a gamble and a risk.
Commissioner Merrell asked if the $485,000 is for one year or three years.
Mr. Chaffin responded it is for three years
Mr. Chaffin explained that the operational period would begin with a training week the week before Thanksgiving, during which they would be open. He said starting the day after Thanksgiving,
running seven days a week except for Christmas Day all the way through Martin Luther King Day in January, totaling 58 operational days.
Mr. Niland explained that the proposal is being brought forward now because there are long lead-time items that are custom-made, and Extreme Ice has indicated that if it wants to proceed
this year. He noted that if the Board is uncomfortable moving forward at this time, he understands, revisiting the matter in the future and postponing the project until next year, as
there is not enough time left to order the materials and complete it this year.
Commissioner Merrell clarified that the $485,000 would be spent over three years, not in one year, and emphasized the high probability of profit based on the limited historical data,
which indicates profitability. She highlighted the chairman's mention of a one-year back-out clause, allowing the Board to exit the agreement without spending the full $485,000. Commissioner
Merrell expressed her belief it would be an amazing holiday activity for Union County residents, generating opportunities for retail taxes to be collected in the Sun Valley area by getting
families out of the house and into Sun Valley, where there are a lot of opportunities for eating out and going to the movies. She said she would be supporting this project to keep things
in Union County so that families donot have to travel to another county.
Mr. Chaffin said it is $185,000 in the first year and $150,000 for the additional two years.
Commissioner Baucom asked, if there is other hidden cost beyond that $185,000?
Mr. Niland responded the only additional cost would be paying the seasonal staff.
Mr. Chaffin clarified that it is already in the budget, and he would not be coming to the Board for additional funds for payment of the seasonal staff.
Commissioner Merrell moved to authorize the county manager to negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item, exercise any renewal or extension term
options set forth in the agreement, and to terminate the agreement if deemed it in the best interest of Union County, each in the county manager's discretion.
The motion passed by a vote of three to one as follows.
Chairman Rowell Aye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Clancey BaucomAye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsNay
Commissioner Williams was not present.
County Manager's Comments
Brian Matthews, County Manager, had no closing comments.
Commissioners' Comments
Chairman Rowell, recognized attorney for the board Mr. Jason Kay for comments.
Jason Kay addressed questions received over the weekend regarding the special meeting held earlier to discuss security plans. Mr. Kay clarified that although state statutes require specific
language when calling such meetings, the meeting was not called in relation to a known terrorist threat. He explained that it was a productive and routine meeting to review security
plans and protocols aimed at ensuring safety during public meetings. He reassured everyone that Union County aims to be proactiveforce in preventing problems before they begin. He thanked
those who read the public notices and reiterated that there was no known issue, and the language used was simply required by the North Carolina General Statutes.
Commissioner Baucom acknowledged that Commissioner Williams was feeling under the weather and wished him a speedy recovery. He also expressed appreciation for the staff's hard work and
encouraged everyone to be careful on their way home.
Commissioner Merrell expressed appreciation to Commissioner Stony Rushing’s family for attending the meeting and shared that it is always heartwarming to see his family here in his absence,
participating in a public body that he loved so much.
Vice Chairman Brian W. Helms echoed Commissioner Merrell's comments, expressing gladness to see Commissioner Rushing’s family and friends, noting it was a testament to what he meant
to many people and to the county. He thanked his colleagues on the Board for a productive meeting and expressed appreciation for the staff's efforts. He also mentioned that they were
praying for Commissioner Williams' speedy recovery.
Chairman Rowell reiterated the sentiments of Commissioner Merrell and Vice Chairman Helms, thanking the Rushing family, their friends, and all County staff, including law enforcement,
police, fire, and EMS. He expressed gratitude to all who attended the meeting.
Adjournment
With there being no further comments or discussion, at approximately 7:35p.m., Chairman Rowell moved that the regular meeting be adjourned. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero
as follows:
Chairman Rowell Aye
Vice Chair Brian HelmsAye
Commissioner BaucomAye
Commissioner MerrillAye
Commissioner Williams was not present.