Minutes 10-20-2025 Minutes FINAL APPROVED (1)UnionCounty,NCBoardofCommissionersMeetingMinutes
UnionCountyGovernment Center
500NorthMainStreet
Monroe,NorthCarolina
www.unioncountync.gov
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Monday, October 20, 20256:00 PM Board Room, First Floor
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Closed Session – 5:15
25-668Closed Session
Present: Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy Baucom, Commissioner Christina B. Helms; and Commissioner Gary Sides
Absent:Chair Melissa M. Merrell
At approximately 5:20 p.m., in the open session, in the Stony D. Rushing Conference Meeting Room, in the absence of Chair Melissa M. Merrell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms called the regular
meeting of the Board of Commissioners to order.
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved that the Board enter closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11:
(a)1), to prevent the disclosure of information that is privileged or confidential pursuant to G.S. section 132-1.1(a) and
(a)(3), for attorney-client privilege; and
(a)(4), to discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries or other businesses;
as such purposes are fully stated in the agenda for this meeting, which has been made publicly available.
The motion passed by a vote of four to one as follows:
Vice Chair Brian W. HelmsAye
Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye
Commissioner Christina B. HelmsAye
Commissioner Gary SidesAye
Chair Melissa M. Merrell was not present.
At the conclusion of the closed session, at approximately 5:35 p.m., Chair Merrell moved that the Board end the closed session and return to the open session. The motion passed by a
unanimous vote as follows:
Vice Chair Brian W. HelmsAye
Commissioner BaucomAye
Commissioner Christina B. HelmsAye
Commissioner SidesAye
Chair Melissa M. Merrell was not present.
Opening of Meeting - 6:00 PM
Present: Chair Melissa M. Merrell, Vice Chair Brian W. Helms, Commissioner Clancy Baucom, Commissioner Christina B. Helms; and Commissioner Gary Sides
Absent:None
Also Present: Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton Voignier, Assistant Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Jason
Kay, County Attorney; and other interested residents
At approximately 6:00p.m., in open session, Chair Melissa Merrell called the regular meeting of Monday, October 20, 2025, to order.
Invocation - Chair Melissa M. Merrelloffered the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance – Chair Melissa M. Merrell led the body and audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Informal Comments
Chair Merrell stated the guidelines for making comment during the informal comments. She recognized Joel Down for his comments.
Mr. Down expressed appreciation to staff for their efforts to explore grant funds in order to save the taxpayers’ money. He mentioned the Transportation grant and the Meals on Wheels
Grant on tonight’s agenda.
Chair Merrell asked if there werewhether there wereany other persons in theaudience memberswho did not sign up to speak during informal comments who wished to comment at this time.
With there being no one else wishing to speak, the chair closed the informal comments.
Public Hearing(s)
25-624Public Hearing – Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant to McGee Corporation (Project Canopy)
Chair Merrell opened the public hearing at approximately 6:05 p.m. regarding a Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant to McGee Corporation (Project Canopy) and recognized Ron Mahle,
Economic Development Director, to present the request.
Mr. Mahle stated that McGee Corporation is a fourth-generation manufacturer of steel-framed canopy systems used at fueling stations and other custom architectural applications. He said
the company is headquartered in Stallings, where it has been in business since 1961, and it will be celebrating 65 years in business next year.
He shared that the company currently employs 163 people, of whom 50 percent are Union County residents. Mr. Mahle stated that these employees earn an average annual wage of $63,000
plus full benefits.
He stated that the company’s business has grown to a point that a level whereit has outgrown its current building. He said it is the company’s goal is to find a location where it can
build a modern, efficient facility that will accommodate their business growth for not only for years to come but also for decades to come.
Mr. Mahle said in order to accomplish this goal, the McGee Corporation is considering the purchase of 60 acres of Union County-owned land located south of Goldmine Road near the Charlotte-Monroe
Executive Airport. He shared that the project’s anticipated capital investment is approximately $40 million,which is a combination of land, a new 366,000 square-foot-building, and new
production equipment. Mr. Mahle stated that the project is also expected to retain its current 163 full-time jobs as well asandcreate 35 new jobs within three to five years. He said
the company has indicated that incentives are an important factor for this project. He said they are asking for the Board’sto consider consideration ofa STEP 4 Economic Development
Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $696,000 paid over a 5-year period beginning in FY 2028. Mr. Mahle stated that the grant will be based upononthe Union County Tax Office’s
appraised value each year on the company’s anticipated investment of $40 million,as appraised by the Union County Tax Administration Office. This grant is based on the company’s projected
investment of approximately $40,000,000 in land, new building construction, and purchase and installation of new manufacturing equipment over the grant period, but not less than $2,000,000.
Based on its projected investment in Union County, the current tax rate, and assuming a consistent assessed value with no depreciation, the company will pay estimated ad valorem taxes
on the new taxable investment inthe amountof $40 million in land, building construction, the new production equipment, and the retention of all of its existing jobs. Mr. Mahle said
that based on this investment and holding all other factors constant, including depreciation, the company would pay estimated ad valorem taxes on the new taxable investment of $868,000
over that same five-year grant period. He stated that actual tax revenue to Union County will be based on the current tax rate applied to the assessed value of theasessment valueinvestment
each year. Mr. Mahle commented that, given the parameters of this opportunity, the Union County Economic Development Department recommends awarding the award ofthis STEP 4 performance-based
Economic Development Incentive Grant to the McGee Corporation in an amount not to exceed $696,000 to help secure this $40 million investment and its related jobs.He introduced Swede
McGee, President of Manufacturing, and his brother,Todd McGee, President of Operations at McGee Corporation. Chair Merrell expressed appreciation to Mr. Swede McGee and Mr. Todd McGee
for attending tonight’s meeting and for all that the McGee Corporation has done for the community over the years. The Chair announced that there wereno speakers registered to speak
at this public hearing. She asked if there was anyone present who had not registered to speak but who wanted to speak at the public hearing.With there being no one wishing to speak,during
the public hearing, the Chair closed the public hearing at approximately 6:09 p.m.
25-660Board of Elections Employees Earn National Certification(Please see Item 25-661 below)
Chris Duggan, Chair, Board of Elections, spoke regarding the Union County Board of Elections earning an Honorable Mention in the U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s (EAC) 2024 Clearinghouse
Awards Program. Mr. Duggan explained that this award was provided to the Union County Board of Elections by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission for its successful and engaging “I
Voted” Sticker contest, which showcased innovation in voter outreach and civic engagement.
He stated that Union County’s sticker contest earned high marks from an independent panel of judges, comprised of current and former election officials, EAC Commissioners, and members
of the EAC’s advisory boards. Mr. Duggan shared that across the United States, 53 jurisdictions received Honorable Mentions, alongside 44 official award winners. He said that jurisdictions
honored ranged from small counties to large states, reflecting a broad spectrum of excellence in election administration.
Mr. Duggan shared that the EAC serves as a national clearinghouse for election information, and the awards are a key part of that mission. The awards recognize innovation, recognize
innovation, sustainability, outreach, cost-effectiveness, replicability, and positive impact.
Christopher Duggan, Chair, Board of Elections; Kristin Holloway, Director, Board of Elections; Phillip Hinson, Deputy Director, Board of Elections; Juanita Reyes, Business Manager, Board
of Elections; Sharon Jordan, Elections Coordinator; and Candace Lopez, Absentee Ballot Coordinator, were photographed with the members of the Board of Commissioners.
25-661Board of Elections Employees Earn National Certification
(Please see Item 25-660 above)
Chris Duggan, Chair, Union County Board of Elections, stated that Sharon Jordan and Candace Lopez, Election Coordinators for the Union County Board of Elections, were designated as a
Certified Elections/Registration Administrators (CERA), the highest professional achievement, in a ceremony conducted by the Election Center on August 22, 2025.
Mr. Duggan shared that the CERA designation is achieved through a multi-year course of study taught by the Auburn MPA faculty and conducted by the Election Center’s Professional Education
Program. He said the program promotes and supports continuous improvement in the administration of elections and voter registration through research, professional education, conferences,
networking, and consulting.
Mr. Duggan said that Ms. Jordan has been employed by Union County since 2018, and Ms. Lopez has been employed by Union County since 2014. He stated that both have earned the North Carolina
Elections Administrator designation and are members of the National Association of Election Officials, which is comprised of voter registrars and election administrators throughout America
and the U.S. Territories.
Consent Agenda
Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda. The motion passed by a unanimous vote as follows:Chair MerrellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner
BaucomAyeCommissioner Christina HelmsAyeCommissioner SidesAye
25-641Bid Award – FY2022 Short Water Line Extension Program Phase A
ACTION: 1) Awarded contract to Classic City Mechanical, Inc., in the amount of $2,007,041.00; 2) authorized the County Manager to a) negotiate and execute an agreement with Classic
City Mechanical, Inc., substantially consistent with this agenda item, b) exercise any renewal or extension term options set forth in the agreement, and c) terminate the agreement if
deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager’s discretion; and 3) adopted a Resolution Providing Notice of Construction of the FY2022 Short Water Line Extension
Program Phase A.
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
toqualifying applicants in Union County. The FY2022 Short Water Line Extension Program projects have been divided into four Phases (A – D). Phase A consists of four projects with approximately
2.4 miles of water lines serving 16 applicants on E Old Dutch Road, Jack Connell Road, Deepwood Place, Sherin Lane, Sikes Mill Road, Braswell Rushing Road, Tyler Ridge Court, and Clontz
Long Road.
The BOCC previously approved WK Dickson & Co., Inc., Task Order 2021-10 for engineering design services for Phases A and C on August 14, 2023, in the amount of $556,600.00.
On September 3, 2025, the Procurement Department partnered with the Union County Water to issue an Invitation for Bid IFB 2026-012 – FY2022 Short Water Line Extension Program Phase A.
On September 30, 2025, five (5) bids for the title project were received and processed. All bids were tabulated, reviewed, and certified by WK Dickson & Co., LLC d/b/a Ardurra Group
North Carolina. The bids ranged from $2,007,042.55 to $3,876,127.50; staff recommends that the project be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder, Classic City Mechanical,
Inc., in the amount of $2,007,042.55.
Funding is available within the adopted capital account 60184128 FY2022 Short Water Line Extensions Program to support the construction contract amount of $2,007,042.55 with Classic
City Mechanical, Inc.
25-627Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant – Project Seven ACTION: Confirmed the Board’s action on July 14, 2025 (Agenda Item 25-425), involving the award of a Step 4 Economic
Development Incentive Grant to Confidential Company (Project Seven) in an amount nottoexceed $4,860,000 over a seven-year period,was an award of such incentive grant to ATI Specialty
Materials, LLC.At its July 14, 2025, regular meeting, the Union County Board of Commissioners awarded a Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant to Confidential Company – Project
Seven. The grant is in an amount not to exceed $4,860,000 paid over a 7-year period beginning in FY2028. The name of the company is ATI Specialty Materials, LLC.
25-633Grant Application – Meals on Wheels America 2025-26 Waitlist Grant
ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to submit the associated grant application and make necessary assurances and certifications associated with the grant application as substantially
consistent with this agenda item, which includes the authorization to execute documents related to the award of the grant and budget funds as appropriate.
Meals on Wheels America, in partnership with Food Lion Feeds, has established a funding opportunity to help address growing waitlists for home-delivered mealsnationwideacross the country.
These funds are intended to support local programs by providing general operations and infrastructure investments that will expand capacity and reduce wait times.
Union County has been identified as a recipient of these funds, which have been set aside for our Senior Nutrition Program. To access the funding, the County must complete an application
form and accept the associated terms and conditions. The funding is $77,000 and will primarily be used to purchase a vehicle for the Senior Nutrition Program. This vehicle will be used
to deliver meals to homebound seniors, and staff will use it when completingto complete the required annual in-home visits for all clients, as mandated by the North Carolina Department
of Health and Human Services - Division of Aging. The additional vehicle capacity will help strengthen program operations and ensure that more seniors in Union County receive timely,
reliable nutrition and support services.
Any funds remaining after the vehicle purchase are unrestricted and may be used to support other program needs, such as shelf-stable meals, computer equipment for staff, or craft and
activity supplies for congregate meal site participants.
The grant award is $77,000 with no required match.
25-643Grant Application – Transportation FY2026 Rural Operating Assistance Program, FY2027 Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Progam and FY2027
FTA 5303 Transit PlanningACTION: Authorized the County Manager to submit the associated grant applications and make necessary assurances and certifications associated with the grant
applications as substantially consistent with this agenda item, which includes the authorization to execute documents, or delegate electronic execution of documents when use of the federal
award management system is required, related to award of the grants and budget funds as appropriate.The Human Services Agency Transportation Department seeks approval to submit applications
for three grant programs to support the continued provision and planning of public transportation services for eligible residents, particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities,
and residents in rural areas. The grants include:1.Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) – FY26ROAP is a State-funded, formula-based program administered by the NC Department of
Transportation – Integrated Mobility Division (NCDOT-IMD). Union County expects to receive $278,783 in FY26 ROAP funding to support operating costs only (no administrative or capital
expenses) for eligible trips in the following categories:•Elderly & Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP) – $125,890•Employment Transportation Assistance Program (EMPL)
– $46,526•Rural General Public (RGP) – $106,367Funds may cover up to 100% of the fully allocated trip cost with no local match required. While EDTAP funds must remain in their designated
category, EMPL and RGP funds may be transferred to any program. The period of performance for these funds is July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, regardless of the date on which ROAP funds
are disbursed to the County.Eligibility:•EDTAP: Participants must be either age 60+ or have a physical or mental impairments that substantially limits one or more major life activities,
per NC G.S. Article 2B, 136-44.27. •EMPL: Recipients must meet one of the following criteria: (1) DSS client who transitioned off Work First or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
(TANF) in the last 12 months; (2) Workforce Development Program participant; (3) Any resident who needs transportation to work, employment training or other related destinations whose
work schedule and destination can be accommodated by the local transit system; (4) A child who requires transport to daycare in conjunction with an eligible parent’s trip to work.•RGP:
Recipients must reside in a non-urbanized area of the County and need transport for any reason (E.g. medical appointment, educational opportunity, employment, personal business). Additionally,
RGP recipients (1) must not qualify under a Human Service Agency to receive transportation or (2) their supporting Human Service Agency must have expended all transportation funding
and no longer be able to fund trips.County governments are the only eligible applicants for ROAP funds, and the County Financial Officer is the DOT-mandated person responsible for overseeing
the funding.2.Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities – Section 5310 Grant – FY27The Section 5310 program (49 U.S.C. 5310) provides formula funding to states to
assist private nonprofit groups in meeting the transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities when transportation services areis unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate
to meet the needs of these residents. The 5310 program aims to remove barriers to transportation services and expand mobility options for seniors and individuals with disabilities by
supporting services planned, designed, and carried out to meet the unique transportation needs of these residents in all areas - large urbanized (over 200,000), small urbanized (50,000-200,000),
and rural (under 50,000). Funds are apportioned based on each state's share of the population, then direct recipients manage and distribute funds to sub-recipient projects. The Human
Services Agency Transportation Division will submit the grant application as a sub-recipient through the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), and our local agreement will be with the
City of Charlotte. Transportation staff have the capability to manage this grant and have been receiving and managing this 5310 funding since January 2016. FY27 grant funding will allow
us to continue meeting the needs of current and future residents who are eligible for services under this funding structure. Our goal is to serve over 200 seniors aged 65 and older and/or
individuals with disabilities currently being served by our system under this funding. The FY27 grant application will include: Operations Funding (Demand Response Service):50% Federal
/ 50% Local match•Union County will use its Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) funds to meet the local match requirement. Capital Funding:•80% Federal / 20% Local match•
Request includes purchase of one (1) 22’ Light Transit Vehicle (LTV) with lift and related equipment.The performance period is for two funding years, meaning funds awarded during
a given fiscal year can be drawn down for two years after the start of the award's fiscal year.3.Transit Planning Program – Section 5303 Grant – FY27Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
Section 5303 federal transportation funding authorizations are allocated each year by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). 5303 funds are managed locally by the Charlotte
Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO), the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Charlotte Urbanized Area (UZA). 5303 funding helps UZAs
plan for the development, improvement, and effective management of their transportation systems, with a focus focusing on planning and administrative activities. Union County Transportation
requests approval to apply for $174,411 of inFY2027 5303 funds, funding is 80% Federal, 10% State, and 10% local match. Funds cover a one (1)-year period of performance from July 1,
2026, to June 30, 2027.The Human Service Agency Transportation Department plans to use the funding associated with this grant to complete multiple tasks, including:•Data and Planning
Support – Ridership analysis, socio-economic analysis, route analysis.•Public Participation – Rider Surveys. •Statewide & Extra Regional Planning – Interagency coordination, state and
regional coordination.•Management, Operations & Program Support Administration – grant development, attending regional and state events.FINANCIAL IMPACT: 1.Rural Operating Assistance
Program (ROAP) – FY2026•Total Funding: $278,783•Local Match Required: None•This funding is budgeted accordingly for FY2026 2. Section 5310 Grant – FY2027 •Operating Request: $288,000
(two-year period: July 1, – June 30, 2029)Federal Share (50%): $144,000Local Match (50%): $144,000•Capital Request: $147,878Federal Share (80%): $118,301Local Match (20%): $29,577•Total
Local Match Required for 5310 Grant: $173,5773. Section 5303 Planning Grant – FY2027•Total Grant Request: $174,411 Federal Share (80%): $139,529State Share (10%): $17,441Local Share
(10%): $17,441•Projected revenue and local share expenditures will be included in the proposed FY2027 budget.
25-630Resolution – Surplus Vehicle Sale ACTION: Adopted Resolution Authorizing Surplus Property Sale by Internet Auction which 1) declares the property itemized on Attachment A as “Surplus”
to the 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 their 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 October 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM and end November 11, 2025, with incremental closings as indicated on Attachment A. A summary of the vehicle information
is listed below. Additional vehicle information can be found in Attachment A.Union County Water•(2) 2014 FORD F350 SUPERCABUCSO•(1) 2013 DODGE CHARGER•(1) 2014 DODGE CHARGER•(1) 2014
FORD EXPLORER•(1) 2014 CHEVROLET TAHOE•(1) 2016 CHEVROLET TAHOE•(1) 2017 CHEVROLET CAPRICE•(1) 2017 FORD EXPLORER•(2) 2018 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTORBuilding Code Enforcement•(1) 2015 FORD
F150 Transportation•(1) 2018 DODGE CARAVANThe vehicles are to be picked up at 610 Patton Avenue, Monroe, NC, with the following terms of sale:1. 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 through the online auction website. Payment in full is due not later than five (5) business
days from the time and date of the Buyer’s Certificate. Payment will not be accepted onsite.Estimated revenue is $50,000. The revenue will be returned to the fund from which the asset
came.
25-636Grant Application – Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to submit the associated grant application and make necessary assurances and
certifications associated with the grant application as substantially consistent with this agenda item, which includes the authorization to execute documents related to award of the
grant and budget funds as appropriate. The Union County Fire Marshal’s Office is seeking authorization to apply for and, if awarded, accept a grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety
Foundation in the amount of $15,000 (no local match). The grant program provides funding to public safety organizations across the nation to enhance emergency response capabilities,
improve community safety, and support lifesaving operations through specialized equipment.The proposed project will fund the purchase of digital cameras and accessories to improve incident
documentation, post-disaster damage assessments, and fire investigation capabilities. High-resolution imagery is a critical component of accurate scene evaluation, training, and reporting.
These tools will allow the Fire Marshal’s Office to collect precise photographic evidence during investigations, emergency incidents, and natural disaster events.Union County anticipates
requesting approximately $15,000 in funding with no local match.
25-622Purchase – Replacement/Expansion Vehicles
ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item, 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.
Fleet requests the approval to purchase fourteen (14) replacement and/or expansion vehicles. Seven (7) Social Services Administration vehicles have met their use inusefullife and were
approved for replacement in the FY26 budget. One (1) expansion vehicle was approved for Economic Development in the FY26 budget. Four (4) UC Water trucks have met their use inusefullife
and were approved for replacement in the FY26 budget. One (1) expansion truck was approved for Facilities Management, and one (1) expansion truck was approved for UC Water in the FY26
Budget. A summary of the replacement/expansion vehicles is below:
Replacements
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 05-16, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 02-16, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 48-14, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 28-13, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 04-16, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 03-16, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Chevrolet Equinox - Replaces 47-14, Social Services Admin, $28,795.50
(1)2026 Ford F250 Service Body - Replaces 17-17, UC Water, $53,257.70
(1)2026 Ford F250 Service Body - Replaces 34-16, UC Water, $53,257.70
(1)2026 Ford F350 Service Body - Replaces 03-15, UC Water, $70,283.10
(1)2026 Ford F350 Service Body - Replaces 35-13, UC Water, $70,283.10
Expansion
(1)2026 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD - Expansion, Economic Development, $55,463.25
(1)2026 Ford F350 Service Body - Expansion, Facilities Mgt., $64,041.00
(1)2026 Ford F550 Service Body - Expansion, UC Water, $87,654.30
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 6 Equinox and 1 Tahoe will be made using North Carolina Statewide Term Contract 2510A as quoted by Capital Chevrolet. The purchase of the 6 Ford trucks will be made
using North Carolina State Term Contract 2510A as quoted by Piedmont Trucks.
The anticipated cost for the vehicles is $655,808.65 and is budgeted accordingly for FY2026. Of this, $257,031.75 will cover the purchase of 6 Equinox and 1 Tahoe and $398,776.90 will
cover the purchase of 6 Ford Trucks.
25-640Contract Amendment – Additional Design Services for the South Piedmont Regional Autopsy Center ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially
consistent with this agenda item, 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.This request is to approve a contract amendment with CPL to provide full building and site design and construction administration services for
the South Piedmont Regional Autopsy Center project. The project includes a new building between 13,000 and 15,000 gross square feet, site work and utilities, and will be located on the
parcel adjacent to the Union County Sheriff's Office Campus. The cost of this amendment is $1,669,225.00, bringing the revised total fee to $1,885,425.00. Staff recommended approval
of this contract amendment to continue design services for a full building and site design for the project.The cost for this amendment is $1,669,225.00.
25-645Adoption of Updated Records Retention Schedules
ACTION: Adopted the 2021 General Records Schedule and 2021 Program Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies for Union County, effective October 20, 2025
In April 2013, Union County adopted a Records Retention and Disposition Schedule for County Management, which governed how long the County must retain various types of county records
to comply with North Carolina law. All records retention and disposition schedules are published and periodically updated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
Division of Archives and Records ("NC Archives").
In 2019, Government Records were combined into a General Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies, and Union County adopted a General Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies
in August of 2019.
In October of 2021, NC Archives published an updated General Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies and a new Program Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies. The 2021
General Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies reorganized and updated the 2019 version to improve clarity and consistency. The most noticeable change is the renaming of the
“Personnel Records” section to “Human Resources Records.” Several record series were consolidated or clarified to eliminate redundancy, and terminology was updated to reflect electronic
recordkeeping practices.
The 2021 Program Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies was a new retention schedule created from the former County Management (last updated in 2013) and Municipal (last updated
in 2012) retention schedules. This schedule contains specific functions of government at the county level including Code Enforcement and Inspection Records, Parks and Recreation Records,
Planning and Regulation of Development Records, Public Transportation Systems Records, Public Utilities and Environmental/Waste Management Records, and Street Maintenance, Public Works,
and Engineering Records. Most retention periods remain consistent with prior guidance, though descriptions and organization were modernized to improve clarity and align with the format
of the General Records Schedule.
Adoption of the 2021 General Records Schedule and Program Records Schedule for Local Government Agencies will supersede prior versions of these schedules and authorize the County to
dispose of records in accordance with State-approved destruction methods.
25-652Tax Bill Correction Report for September 2025
ACTION: Approve Tax Bill Correction Reports for September 2025
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 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.
September Refund amount = $7258.82
25-657Amendment to the Union County Pay and Classification Plan
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approved a revision of the Union County Pay and Classification Plan to include the following:
A) Add the following classification title and associated pay grade:
i) Animal Services Supervisor - pay grade I
Updates to the Union County Pay Plan are necessary to add, update, and remove job classification titles to align with current and future organizational needs.
25-639Minutes for ApprovalACTION: Approved the minutes of the regular meeting of June 2, 2025
Information Only
25-623Communications Monthly Report – September 2025
ACTION: No action was requested. This item is for information only.
This report provides valuable metrics and insights into communication platforms and our efforts to collaborate with all County departments to inform and engage residents, promote programs
and services, and strengthen internal and external communications.
25-625Contract Report July – September 2025
ACTION: No action was requested. This item was for information only.
Per Section XVIII of the FY 2026 adopted Operating and Capital Budget Ordinance, the contract report lists executed contracts and purchase orders that were entered into by the County
Manager or Procurement designee from July through September 2025.
25-646Wastewater Treatment Capacity – Monthly Update
ACTION: No action was requested. This item was for 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 September 2025 is summarized in the attached table.
Twelve Mile Creek
•Percent of Actual Flows= 70.0%
•Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 89.1%
•Actual Flows (MGD)= 5.253
•Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 6.682
Crooked Creek
•Percent of Actual Flows= 59.4%
•Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 88.7%
•Actual Flows (MGD)= 1.129
•Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 1.686
Olde Sycamore
•Percent of Actual Flows= 26.0%
•Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 26.0%
•Actual Flows (MGD)= 0.039
•Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 0.039
Tallwood
•Percent of Actual Flows= 44.0%
•Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 44.0%
•Actual Flows (MGD)= 0.022
•Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 0.022
Grassy Branch
•Percent of Actual Flows= 86.0%
•Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 88.0%
•Actual Flows (MGD)= 0.043
•Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 0.044
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 September 2025 are summarized in the tables below.
25-648South Piedmont Regional Autopsy Center – October 2025 Quarterly Report
ACTION: No action was requested. This item is for information only.
This is the quarterly progress report on the operations of the South Piedmont Regional Autopsy Center (SPRAC).
Business
25-626Consider a Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant to McGee Corporation (Project Canopy)
Chair Merrell recognized Ron Mahle, Economic Development Director, for his comments.
Mr. Mahle offered to answer any questions that the Board had regarding this item.
Commissioner Sides moved to:1) Award a Step 4 Economic Development Incentive Grant in an amount not to exceed $696,000 over a 5-year period and 2) authorize the County Manager to a)
negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this agenda item, b) exercise any renewal or extension term options set forth in the Agreement, and c) terminate the
Agreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager's discretion.Vice Chair Brian W. Helms said he wanted to echo the Chair’s earlier comments of the Chair
earlier in the meetingregarding the great job that the McGee Corporation does for Union County. He added that it is great that the company is fourth-generation owned. Chair Merrell
commented that the McGee Corporation is a well-known entity and a core of the community.The motion passed by a unanimous vote as follows:Chair MerrellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner
BaucomAyeCommissioner Christina HelmsAyeCommissioner SidesAyeChair Merrell recognized Dennis Moser who was in the audience.
25-642Union County Land Preservation and Easement Program Update Chair Merrell recognized Alan Aldridge, Soil and Water Conservation District Director, for his presentation.
Mr. Aldridge said that they have not been before the Board since February 2025. He reviewed some of the previous actions of the Board:
Mr. Aldridge stated that Cycle 1 was opened for applications from June 20 – August 8. He commented that they received 28 applications for the program for approximately 1,200 acres and
$7,285,205 worth of requests. He shared that following the August 8 application deadline,for applications staff ranked the applications, and four projects were selected for consideration.
He stated at the August Soil and Water Conservation board meeting of August,the Soil and Water District Board approved the four projects to be submitted to the Board of Commissioners
for consideration. He said at the September board meeting of the Ag Advisory Board, that board approved the four projects to be submitted to the Board of Commissioners for consideration.
He provided the information regarding the four easements:
Easement #1 -
Mr. Aldridge described the easement as being located off Old Landsford Road and Little Sleepy Hollar and is mainly forest land.
Easement #2 –Easement #3 -Mr. Aldridge stated that this easement is adjacent to Easement #2 located off Old Goldmine Road. He pointed out that Old Goldmine Road is located on the
east with no creek frontage on this property.Easement #4 –He described this easement as being located southeast of Belk Mill Road down Highway 601 south. Mr. Aldridge reviewed the requested
action of the Board.Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager, requested that Mr. Aldridge provide an approximate amount that will remain in the program if all four easements are accepted.
Mr. Aldridge stated that approximately $30,000 would be allocated to for transactional costs for each easement, such as surveying, environmental assessments, appraisals, and legal work.
In addition, he stated approximately $100,000 has been set aside in case other projects might be forthcoming. He updated the Board on the two pilot projects stating they are going
through the surveying and appraisal work and said hopefully by the first of next year, those projects will be closed. Chair Merrell asked whether the same person owns the two properties
on Goldmine Road.were owned by the same person. Mr. Aldridge responded that they were not owned by the same person but explained that these properties ranked higher because they are
adjacent. Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed appreciation to Mr. Aldridge for the explanation of those two properties. He said he thought it was great that the fact that the two properties
being adjacent to each other was considered in the rankings, which would be over 130 acres contiguous. Chair Merrell said for transparency, she wanted to address some of the final comments
that were made. She asked if the program’s current balance was approximately $969,000, and asked if the four easements were approved tonight, there would therebe approximately $115,000
in the program. Mr. Aldridge responded that after the transactional costs, the remaining balance would be approximately $100,000. Vice Chair Brian W. Helms moved to: 1) Approve the
allocation of funds, from Budget 10115410-5630-11115, for the purchase of Easements 90-2026-001, 90-2026-002, 90-2026-003, and 90-2026-004 in the amount of $854,180; and 2) accept Easements
90-2026-001, 90-2026-002, 90-2026-003, and 90-2026-004 into the Union County Land Preservation & Easement Program.The motion passed by a unanimous vote as follows:Chair MerrellAyeVice
Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner BaucomAyeCommissioner Christina HelmsAyeCommissioner SidesAyeCounty Manager’s CommentsBrian Matthews, County Manager, stated that he often receives
questions from Board members as well as the public about any impacts that the County might see to its budget and operations related to the federal government shutdown, as well as the
State not having an officially adopted budget. Mr. Matthews stated that the impacts of those factors are not yet evident. really seen at this point in time. He said he was not saying
that the County will not have impacts, but no impacts are being noticed at this particular time. He stated there could be impacts, and staff would bring that information to the Board
as it becomes more noticeable. He said the County is operating as is, and he is not seeing any changes at this point.Commissioner Sides asked Mr. Matthews if he had any information
through any of his sources as to the nature of the impasse at the State level in passing a budget. He further asked if there has been any communication as to the sticking points or
explanation as to why there is not a budget.Mr. Matthews stated that he is not aware of the circumstances.Commissioners’ CommentsCommissioner Sides thanked everyone for attending tonight’s
meeting and wished them a safe trip home.Vice Chair Brian W. Helms expressed appreciation to Alan Aldridge, Soil and Water Conservation District Director, for his presentation. He stated
that he had been supportive of He saidthe Land Preservation and Easement Program has been discussed a few times. He stated that he has been supportive all along andsaid the County
has to take measuresand would encourage the county to protectthe agricultural character of the county,and said this is a good way to do so. He expressed appreciation to Mr. Aldridge
and others for the work they are doing.The Vice Chair expressed appreciation to Joel Down, who spoke during informal comments. He acknowledged the Board of Elections’ thoseemployees
in attendance from the Board of Elections and expressed appreciation to them for their services to the residents of the county. all they do for the county.Commissioner Christina Helms
had no closing comments.Commissioner Baucom said ditto to Vice Chair Brian W. Helms’ comments. He expressed appreciation to Andrew Baucom and Alan Aldridge for their efforts. He acknowledged
the work byRon Mahle for his work with of the Economic Development Office. He and said he was glad to see matters move forward for the McGee Corporation.Chair Merrell expressed her
congratulations to the Union County Board of Elections and her appreciation for their work.they do.The Chair asked Mr. Matthews if he had spoken with anyone to receive any feedback as
to the potential of the new Governor approving or not approvinga budget. Mr. Matthews saidreported some minor changes have been adopted, but not a fullthe complete budget. He stated
it was his understanding thatthey were considering a mini budget. He further stated that he had not heard any comments from the legislators.Chair Merrell said she would like to find
outlearn which mini budgets were approved and whether they differ from last year’s budget. She added that she would like to better understand the stop gaps and what was funded,their
total budget, and also to knowunderstand where the teachers’ salaries fallare within that budget. She said she thought there were awould be lots of questions if the state budget is
not being adopted.what is being taken care of above last year’s budget.She shared that she has spoken with some of Union County’s legislative delegates,and they have supported items
such as teacher increases. Chair Merrell said that this Board has encouraged the county supplement to be activated. She stated she does not want the County tax dollars to be tied up
waiting on state mandates. She said she wanted to take care of Union County people who are on the job doing their work. She further said that she knows that by state statute, the Board
cannot make another board todo what it wants it to do, but thetake action that it does not prefer to take, but the Board of Commissioners can strongly recommend thatthe County supplement
and thedollars be spent on theiras intended in the appropriation.those doing the work. Mr. Matthews responded that thestaff will work on providingto provide clarification on the State’s
budget.Commissioner Sides said that he had neglected to include in his earlier comments that, in previous meetings, members of this Board had expressed their support forateachers’supplement.
County as a financial backdrop, particularly for the school system, inthe event case of any kind of financial shock,event if and when a budget is adopted. He said he wanted to lend
his support as well for any type of unforeseen shock loss if and when there is a partial or full budget adopted and there is an opportunity for the County’s resources to play some kind
of role to mitigate that shock initially so the school system can try and move forward with the supplements and capital projects with some degree of confidence that the County has their
back to mitigate any of the unforeseen financial shocks.Chair Merrell said that it is near the end of 2025, and if the Board of Education does not take care of the County dollars for
the Countysupplementthat was appropriated by the county, then it means it is moving into December or January, and she fears if not provided to them now, it will be dropped to a lower
number in the next budget. The County supplement was at Number 37, and if not provided to the teachers now, she fears it will drop much lower than Number 37 next budget year. in the
next budget. She stated that, given that it was said this was the Number 1 priority for this school year, she would like to see it taken care of now and not in 2026, and to use using
a County supplement for state unfunded mandates. She commented that she wanted to stand by the Board of Education andthe Superintendent and take care of teachers and leadership She
reminded that good leadership and teachers have that hasresulted in Union County Public Schools being the Number 1 performing school district in the State of North Carolina out of 115
school districts. Vice Chair Brian W. Helms said this gives the county the opportunity to increase the supplement two years in a row,which he said he did not know had been done in a
long time. He stated that he thought Chair Merrell had hit the nail on the head that these are county tax dollars paid for county teachers. He said with that in mind, there are other
avenues to fund unfunded mandates, and there are other things that can be done with byworking with the state legislators to find solutions.He added that he is hopeful that the County
can work with the educational partners and get the supplement out before 2026. Chair Merrell said if the Board of Education chooses to use the teachers’ supplement increases forother
state issues, then it will continue to hurt the Union County teachers.when sheShe emphasized that she thoughtboth boards they would be better off joining forces and working with letting
the Stateoninsurance and all of the other State issues,and if the State fails if they failto fund it, then let it be a State problem and not a Union County problem. AdjournmentWith
there being no further comments or discussion, at approximately 6:45 p.m., Chair Merrell moved to adjourn the regular meeting. The motion passed by a unanimous vote as follows:Chair
MerrellAyeVice Chair Brian W. HelmsAyeCommissioner BaucomAyeCommissioner Christina HelmsAyeCommissioner SidesAye