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Final Minutes May 26 Union County, NC Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes Union County Government Center 500 North Main Street Monroe, North Carolina www.unioncountync.gov May 18, 20266:00 PMBoard Room, First Floor ____________________________________________________________ 26-287Closed Session – 5:15 P.M. Present:Vice Chair Christina B. Helms, Commissioner Clancy Baucom, Commissioner Melissa M. Merrell, and Commissioner Errol Wedra AbA Absent: Chair Brian W. Helms Also Present:Brian W. Matthews, County Manager; Patrick Niland, Deputy County Manager; Clayton Viognier, Assistant County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; and Jason Kay, County Attorney At approximately 5:16 p.m., in open session, in the Stony D. Rushing Conference Meeting Room, Vice Chair Christina B. Helms called the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners to order. Vice Chair Christina B. Helms moved that the Board enter closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11: (a)(1), to prevent the disclosure of privileged or confidential information pursuant to G.S. section 153A-98; (a)(3), to consult with an attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege, (a)(6), to consider the qualifications, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an individual public officer or employee, as such, purposes are fully stated on the agenda for this meeting, which has been made publicly available. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina B. HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian W. Helms was not present. At approximately 5:40 p.m., Vice Chair Christina B. Helms moved that the Board recess andto reconvene at 6:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as is possible, in the Board’s meeting chamber. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina B. HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Opening of Meeting - 6:00 PM Invocation – Commissioner Clancy Baucom offered the invocation. Pledge of Allegiance – Vice Chair Christina B. Helms led the body and audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. Informal Comments Vice Chair Christina B. Helms read the guidelines for speakers making informal comments and recognized Mark Russell as the first speaker. The Vice Chair called Thomas Marsh as the first speaker for comments. Mr. Marsh had registered online to speak during the informal comments. He was not present when recognized by the Vice Chair. She asked if there was anyone in the audience who had not registered to speak but who wanted to comment at this time. With no one coming forward, the Vice Chair moved to the next item on the agenda. Public Hearing(s) Vice Chair Christina B. Helms announced that the next two items on the agenda would be public hearings for rezonings. Before opening either of the public hearings, the Chair read the rules governing comments during public hearings, which would apply to each of the public hearings. 26-270Public Hearing – Rezoning Petition CZ-2026-001 Marcham Vice Chair Christina B. Helms opened the public hearing at approximately 6:05 p.m. and recognized Bjorn Hansen, Planning Department, Senior Planner – Long Range Planning, for comments from staff. Mr. Hansen stated that this request is for a conditional rezoning for property located on N.C. Highway 75, just east of Mineral Springs. He shared the site plan associated with the rezoning request. He noted the railroad tracks locatedon the north side, the location of aandlandscaping supply business with limited equipment storage associated with the business. He pointed out the location of the material storage on the site, as well as the buildingsassociated bildings. with it. He also noted the parking on the site plan, the stormwater pond at the back of the property, and stated that the remaining back portions of the property will be undisturbed. Mr. Hansen stated there is a buffer around the perimeter of the property exitingwith required landscaping. He pointed out that the access to the property is left-in and right-in, but vehicles exiting the property will can only be able toturn right. He explained that is because the thinking is that there will be a number of trucks towing trailers that will not be able to accelerate very well, and a left turn could be challenging with the traffic on Highway 75.with the traffic. He stated that to make a left turn, a vehicle would have to turnmake a right and then do a 180-degree turn at the roundabout at Rocky River Road. Mr. Hansen reviewed the request and conditions: Limited to the approved site plan dated April 7, 2026 Uses limited to landscaping supply business and construction equipment storage Five-year vesting of development rights Development will meet all requirements of the Union County Unified Development Ordinance on the date of approval Access may be restricted to right-in and right-out in the future, at the discretion of the NCDOT, based on safety issues that may be created by the site. Mr. Hansen described the property’s existing conditions of the propertyas being undeveloped. He said it is a field with limited trees. He noted the location of the trees to the north and the railroad beyond the trees. He stated there are two-lane roads to the east and west along NC Highway 75 with large-lot residential and undeveloped parcels. He addressed the environmental features of the property, stating there are no streams or floodplains on the property,and that there iswithlimited forest in the back, which is the lower portion of the site. Mr. Hansen stated the zoning is generally RA-40, and as it gets closer to the Rocky River intersection with NC Highway 75, there is some light industrial and business that hashave been rezoned over the years. He said to the westMineral Springs is located to the west. He said in terms of transportation, there is no funded improvements along this section of NC Highway 75. He shared that the current traffic county countis nearly 8,000 vehicles per day. He stated that the access considerations were discussed earlier. He stated that, in terms of the Land Use Map, everything appears it all shows up as purple because it is an overlay for an employment corridor along NC Highway 75. He said that to the north of NC Highway 75 would be single-family residential and to the south would be rural residential, but because of the industrial request, it was evaluated against the employment corridor. Mr. Hansen stated that because the rezoning request is commercial in nature, Union County Public SchollsSchools was not consulted for comments. He said that public water is available to the site, and the site will use a septic system. Mr. Hansen shared that a community meeting was held on March 30, 2026, with six residents in attendance. He said those residents asked questions about the site’s development of the siteand stormwater impacts. He stated that no changes were made to the site plan as a result of that meeting. He said that the Town of Mineral Springs was consulted and did not have any concerns with the proposed use. He provided the following slide showing the Staff Report and Recommendation: Mr. Hansen stated that the applicant was present to provide additional information. Vice Chair Christina Helms welcomed the applicant to provide additional comments at this time. Christopher Duggan, Attorney at Law, stated that he represents the applicant. He said that the applicants, Mr. Tom Marcham, his son Stone, and Frank Cantrell, who is the engineer on the project,are also present. Mr. Duggan explained that this proposal is for a landscaping supply business, both a bulk and residential. He stated that the applicant has gone to great lengths to ensure that this facility will fit in with the neighboring property. He shared that at the community meeting that was held, there wereonly six residents werein attendance. He said there was a feeling that the residents were glad the proposal was not another set of homes going in. He stated that the applicant listened atto the community meeting, and what is anticipated is having a low-impact facility. Mr. Duggan said there would not be big lights on suchas with a car lot. He further said they would run the candlelight study before any lights are installed. He stated that the lights will predominantlyprimarily be triggered by motion if someone comes onto the property. He said that the property will be secured. Mr. Duggan shared that the applicant anticipates there will be approximately 25 to 40 car counts on the property per day, depending upon the day. He reiterated that it is anticipated that the property itisanticipated that the property will be serviced by county water, and septic is already on the property. He said the soil test has been completed. He stated that the applicant believes that the project will fit in with the employment corridor. Mr. Duggan said there is a roundabout approximately a quarter of a mile on Rocky River Road. He stated the railroad is across the way from there. He said they do not believe there will be any substantial impact on the value of the property, andwhich they have submitted an appraisal from Morrison Appraisal on the value of the properties, and itwhich was not found to have a substantial impact on the neighboring property values. Mr. Duggan said they believe the proposed project will fit in with all of the criteria forthelight industrial conditional zoning. He stated that they have reviewed the proposed conditions, and those conditions areand found them acceptable. Brian Matthews, County Manager, stated that no one had registered to comment during the public hearing. The Vice Chair asked if there wasanyone in the audience who wished to comment at this time but who had not registered. There was no one who wished to comment. The Vice Chair closed the public hearing at approximately 6:13 p.m. and called the next item on the agenda. 26-271Public Hearing – Rezoning Petition CZ-2026-006 House of Pearls Vice Chair Christina Helms opened the public hearing regarding Rezoning Petition CZ-2026-006 House of Pearls at approximately 6:13 p.m. and recognized Bjorn Hansen, Planning Department, Senior Planner – Long Range Planning, for comments from staff. Mr. Hansen stated that this request is a second conditional rezoning by House of Pearls. He said that it is the operation thatthe applicant is proposingto place on this property. He described the property as being located south of Marshville and Wingate. He stated that the site plan associated with this rezoning is on Camden Road on the south side and would haveincludea series of communal living spaces for the residents of the treatment facility, with a meeting building. He said there is parking on the site, which is not for the residents’ vehicles. He stated the parking would be for the employees or for volunteers with the facility. Mr. Hansen explained that this would normally be a special use permit but further explained that the only reason they are going through the rezoning request is because they want to phase this over time, they would have to go back every year and request a new special use permit, which was thought to be too onerous so a map, so it is being proposed as a master plan development to give them the flexibility to go through the process once. He provided the following slide showing the Request and Conditions: Planning Department, Senior Planner – Long Range Planning, for comments from staff. Mr. Hansen explained that these conditions are not necessarily related to this business or this facility. He said it is the fact that it could be sold and someone else could use the rezoning that was approved to operate some other business or operation treatment facility on the site, and they wanted to give flexibility for maybe a different type of facility for the future, but not so much flexibility that it is completely different than what is being considered. Mr. Hansen pointed out that the overarching condition is that it is a residential recovery and life skills program. He said it is not meant to be a week-by-week type ofsituation, but it is also not meant to be forever, so 90 days to 24 months is the agreed to range that was agreed to. He reviewed the conditions and noted that the conditions state that it shallshould not exceed 80 residents. He stated that this is higher than what is proposed, but based on the size of the buildings, it givesprovidesthem flexibility. He addressed the existing conditions and said that it is anundeveloped,piece of land that islargely forested land. He noted that the portion of the tract to the north is not a part of the rezoning and will retain the RA-40 zoning in case the applicant wants to sell it in the future or combine it with another parcel, it will not cause any problems. He pointed out that to the west of the site is a church and to the east is agricultural land. Mr. Hansen addressed the development status and said the only part that is being rezoned is the large portion on the south. He said it was a large lot with residential surrounding most of the site. In terms of environmental features, he stated there is a stream at the northern end of the site that is incorporated into the stormwater facilities for this property. Mr. Hansen said that Planning has been familiar with the applicant and the overall site for more than a year, because they have done a significant amount of work to do the engineering at their own expense to confirm that a short line water extension could occur to the site, which would make it much more feasible compared to operating it with a well. He stated that in terms of zoning, it is all RA-40 in this portion of the county, and there is no municipality nearby. Mr. Hansen said there are very low-volume roads with only 300 vehicles per day on Camden Road and 1,300 on Old Pageland-Marshville Road. He stated there are no funded transportation improvements in the immediate vicinity. He stated that the Land Use Map calls fordesignates the land as rural residential, and this type of use is allowed in RA-40 with a special use permit,which means it would have gone to the Board of Adjustment. Mr. Hansen stated that because this rezoning request is being considered as commercial in nature, even though people will live there but will not have their families at the facility, Union County Public Schools was not consulted for comments. He said that public water will be available through a short line extension from the west, and the site will use a private engineered septic system, with the site plan showing shown withthe septic field on the southern portion of the parcel. Mr. Hansen shared that a community meeting was held on March 31, 2026, with 19 residents in attendance along with many members of the staff and representatives of the overall organization attendedattending the meeting. He said the residents asked questions about fencing, signage, lighting, and stormwater impacts. He said no changes were made to the site plan as a result of the meeting. He stated that because of the distance to both Marshville and Wingate, neither of the towns werewasconsulted for comments. Mr. Hansen shared the following slides showing the staff Report and Recommendations: Mr. Hansen stated that as with any proposed rezoning, it could establish a precedent for more of these, and there could be additional activity on the property relating to visitors or staff coming to visit or increased traffic in the area, and would be under the Master Planned Development (MPD) which is a broad use but could open other uses that were not intended to apply in this area. He said the positives include that the use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Hansen stated that the development can meet the County’s development standards. He said there wereno comments were expressed, but they have heard there are at least a couple of residents who oppose the rezoning, and perhaps they have registered to speak tonight, but Planning has not heard any comments directly. He noted that it is a large piece of property, so it is not like having these uses immediately adjacent to houses, and it provides a needed use in the community. He stated that for these reasons, Planning recommended approval, and the Planning Board recommended approval on a unanimous vote. He said there aremany peopleare present tonight on behalf of the program, and the applicant is present to answer any questions of the Board. Commissioner Baucom asked how long the House of Pearls has been operating in Union County. Mr. Hansen deferred to the applicant for a response to this question. Steve Merritt, applicant, stated that the program has been operating in operation in Union County since 2006. Commissioner Baucom asked if there was an estimate of the number of ladies who have gone through the House of Pearls’ program. The Vice Chair requested that Mr. Merritt come forward to the podium to respond to the question so everyone could hear his comments. Mr. Merritt came forward and introduced himself as the Chairman of the Board for the House of Pearls. He said in the last five to six years, there have been 153 participants to go through the program. He added there have been 853 applicants in that same timeframe that they could not help. He stated that since 2006, the program has probably helped nearly 1,000 women. Mr. Merritt said there were a number of individuals who wanted to speak on behalf of the House of Pearls and said there were a number of “Pearls” present who wanted to speak thatwho are either active in the program or who have graduated from the program. He shared that the founder of the House of Pearls was Terry Merritt, who was the ChaplinChaplain of the Union County Jail, when the House of Pearls was started in 2006. He stated that Chaplain Merritt passed away in 2010 or 2011, and the program has continued to thrive. Mr. Merritt said the program has helped many women overcome addiction. He stated that the House of Pearls is a non-profit, faith-based organization, and there is no charge for the residents to stay at the facility, nor do they makerequire the residents to stay. He explained that it is a year-long program. Mr. Merritt said that the program helps women who have suffered from addiction to drugs,alcohol, maybe sex trafficking, or some kind of substance abuse. He said they have accepted some out offrom the jail system, and they hope to keep them out of the jail system. He shared that they have a good relationship with probation officers, and in lieu of jail time, they can bring them into the facility andto help them if they graduate from the program. Mr. Merritt explained that while in the program, the participants have responsibilities to learn how to live life beyond alcohol and drug addiction. He said it is a full-time center that operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. He stated they are limited in to whom they can see during their time at the facility, and the program is very protective of the residents. He said they do not like forwant any of the residents’ past relationships to be a part of the program. Mr. Merritt shared that the residents learn financial awareness, life skills, which some of those life skills are used in the jail system currently, and they help some of the residents to obtain their GED’sGEDs or driver’s licenses.returned. He said many times the residents have been in criminal trouble criminally, and the program tries to help them overcome some of the charges and help them to learn how to live in society. Mr. Merritt stated that the House of Pearls is fully supported by churches, local citizens, and some corporations. He shared that the residents are closely supervised 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Mr. Merritt stated that the House of Pearls has a transitional home after the residents stay with the program for 12 months. He said the program likesaims to help the residents obtain a job and help them survive outside the program and become productive citizens in society. He reiterated that since 2019, the program has had 853 applicants that they could not help but emphasized that 153 women have gone through the program. He stated that if the residents graduate from the program, they have a 90 percent success rate to not go back into addiction. He added that they have some after-care alumni programs to assist. Mr. Merritt said that tonight they are requesting tonight for10 acres of the 12-acre site to be rezoned so they can build for the future. He said the House of Pearls has been part of the community for 20 years. Mr. Merritt concluded his comments and requested that the Board vote on the rezoning tonight, if possible. The Vice Chair stated that there was a list of speakers registered to speak during the public hearing. She called Delane Clay as the first speaker. Ms. Clay stated that she is a Union County resident and resides on Camden Road in Marshville. She said that she is speaking on behalf of several neighbors who are present tonight in supportofto expressconcerns that they have with the House of Pearls. She asked those residents in the audience to stand.in the audience. She stressed that she wanted to be clear that they respect the Mission of the House of Pearls. Ms. Clay said that supporting women in rehabilitation is meaningful and important work. She explained that their concerns are not about the purpose of theorganization’spurpose but about whether this location and the proposed scale of development are appropriate tofor the rural community. Ms. Clay stated that from the Planning Board presentation, the proposal includes eight homes housing up to ten women each plus a Life Center on less than 11 acres of land. She said residents were initially told the project would begin with two homes and a Life Center, they now understand that this is only the first phase of a much larger, long-term plan that can grow to 80 residents. She stated that level of expansion is a major concern for their community. She addressed infrastructure and environmental impact. Ms. Clay said that the property does not perk and sits within wetlands. She stated that the landsand road systems were not designed to support this level of density and traffic. She commented that Camden Road is a rural road that already hasfaces safety challenges with farming. She noted there is also a dangerous intersection located approximately a quarter of a mile from where they propose are proposingto build. Ms. Clay said traffic coming from Wingate will have to go through that intersection. She stated that there would be increased traffic from staff, residents, deliveries, and visitors would significantly change the character and safety of the area. She addressed transparency and growth. Ms. Clay said the Board is being asked to approve rezoning based on a small initial phase while knowing the long-term plan is much larger. She stated that once the property is rezoned, further expansion comes easier. She said the neighbors believe the decision should reflect the full scope of the long-term plan and not just the first step. Ms. Clay commented about safety and security. She said in a remote rural area there needs to be clear, detailed plans showing how the safety of both residents and neighbors will be maintained at all times. She stated that the neighbors respectfully ask that the Board consider limiting the development to no more than four homes and a life center along with requiring thorough traffic, environmental, and safety planning before any approval. Vice Chair Christina Helms recognized Chad Clay, who had registered online to speak during the public hearing. Mr. Clay stated that he did not need to comment. The next person recognized for comments was Steve Merritt. Mr. Merritt stated that he had previously made comments. He asked if he could address the concerns that had been mentioned. The Vice Chair said that Mr. Merritt would be allowed three minutes to address the concerns. Mr. Merritt responded that they are planning to build eight homes and the Family Life Center. He stated,that as Mr. Hansen had mentioned earlier, the traffic willwould be very limited and reiterated that none of the residents willhave vehicles. He said that the House of Pearls has a van that will transport the residents on and off-site. He further said there are volunteers thatwho will come in periodically, but this will not increase traffic as the residents are concerned. Mr. Merritt stated that if there is a concern about the women being in the neighborhood, they are under strict control of the House of Pearl, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. He said they will not be walking the streets, as they are now. He commented that they are on the streets now. He stated that many times people will say “We need this, but not in my neighborhood.” He said they are already in the neighborhood and are walking the streets. Mr. Merritt said thatwith the House of Pears, the women are off the streets and are safe, and the neighborhood will be safe. He shared that the House of Pearls has been in the community for 20-plus years, and there have been no incidents whatsoever. He stated that, as far as the dangerous intersection, there will be very few of the House of Pearls’ vehicles going through the intersection. He assured there is nothing to be concerned about as far as with concernsthe residents of the House of Pearls are concerned.residents. Delois Carpenter said that she is the Executive Director of the House of Pearls and has heldbeen inthat position for approximately eight years. Ms. Carpenter stated that she lives in Lancaster County but works in Union County. She shared that the House of Pearls has three homes: one located in the Towns of Wingate; Marshville (Union County), and Lancaster County. She stated the name House of Pearls reflects its mission and belief that every person has value, purpose, and worth, so much like a pearl that is formed through difficulty, pressure, and perseverance. Ms. Carpenter said that many of the families they serve are overcoming hardships, instability, trauma, addiction, or difficult seasons in life. She said the House of Pearls’ ministry exists to supply support, hope, guidance, and a safe place where residents can be restored and strengthened. Ms. Carpenter stated that the women in the program are taught practical daily life skills along with job training. She shared that the House of Pearls operates a store in Monroe where Pearlsgirls work in the storeand are being taught how to havea work ethic, among other locations in Union County. She said the work closely with the women to help them address legal issues, to restore their driver's licenses, and to overcome barriers that once prevented them from moving forward. She added that most importantly, they are taught accountability, learning to acknowledge their past mistakes without allowing them those mistakesto define their future. Ms. Carpenter said the House of Pearls’ goal is to help the residents become stable, responsible, and productive members of society who are able to contribute positively to their families and their community. She stated that they are asking for the Board’s support to allow in allowing development on the land they have purchased in Marshville, because they need more room to help more people. Ms. Carpenter said their current capacity limits the number of individuals and families they are able tocanserve. She stated that as Mr. Merritt has stated, they have turned many people away. She said this new property represents an opportunity to expand the House of Pearls’ reach to provide additional housing, resources, and life-changing programs and to create a lasting positive impact in the community. Ms. Carpenter stated it is not just about buildings and land development, it is about people,and it is about broken people who need help. She said it is about giving individuals a second chance to rebuild their lives, to restore their families,togrow in stability, and to move forward with dignity, accountability, and support. She shared that over nearly the eight years that she has been a part of this ministry; she has personally witnessed many lives changed. She said that she has watched women who once struggled with addiction become productive members of society and, more importantly, she has seen them become restored with their families. She shared that these are the reasons this ministry means so much to her, because she sees the transformation. Ms. Carpenter said it is not about recovery, but they are trying to help them transform their lives. Brandy Cook shared that she was a Pearl graduate and came to the House of Pearls in April 2023. She said she was lost, broken, and in addiction for 17 years. She shared that she had tried to quit quittinga few times but never succeeded. Ms. Cook explained how she learned about the House of Pearls. She said she is truly grateful for the program and is stillremainsconnected and involved with it. program.She stated that it is not just a program, but they area family. Erika Sullivan stated that she is 21 years old and is currently the youngest person in the program. Ms. Sullivan said she has been in the program for approximately seven months. She shared information about the loss of her brother and said that if it were not for the House of Pearls’ program she would have ended up just like her brother. She said that because of the program, she has been able to learn the life skills that she needed to hold a job. She stated she has been working for over a month when she had not been able to hold a job. She shared that she has seen her family restored. Ms. Sullivan said that, because of the House of Pearls, she could can confidently say that if she stays in Union County, she can help other people the way the program has helped her. She stated that unless they get the space to help more people, there will be more kids on the street. Natalie Reed stated that she is 27 years old and resides at the Whitley House in Marshville. Ms. Reed said she was originally from Lancaster, South Carolina. She described the House of Pearls as being a safe haven for her. She shared information about her past in abusive relationships. Ms. Reed said she is a second-time resident of the House of Pearls. She stated that after being in Union County for four months, she was recently was able to see her children again. John Bradley (Bones) stated that he is a member of the Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry and lives in Lancaster County. He spoke on behalf of the House of Pearls. He said that the rezoning is not about approving property, but it is about approving the possibility. April McErlane stated that she is a resident of Cabarrus County and is the Administrative Director of the House of Pearls. She shared that in 2020 she came to the House of Pearls as a resident and as a completely different person than she is today. She said the House of Pearls saved her life. Ms. McErlane said that she does background checks on every applicant to the House of Pearls. She stated that she has watched the program change the lives of so many people. Jessica Webb stated that she is a resident at the Wingate House and is the night and weekend manager at that facility. She stated that she understands the fear that the community has withof women coming in with certain backgrounds. She shared that the program has changed her life. Margaret Butler stated that she is a resident of Mint Hill but married a Union County native. Ms. Butler said she is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She stated she is one of three licensed therapists who give their time to work with the residents at the House of Pearls. She said they know that these residents do not choose to turn to alcohol and to drugs, but they are trying to deal with some kind of pain that no one has ever taught them to deal with it. She stated that the therapists help them to learn better and healthier ways to deal with the pain so that when they graduate from the House of Pearls, they can apply it to their lives. **START HERE Ms. Butler said that if family history holds true, she is in the last decade of her life. She stated that she chooses to spend a good portion of her life at the House of Pearls, because this program works. She further stated that it is her personal and professional opinion that there is no finer place for anyone to come to be healed of their addiction. Wally Gilmer assured the neighbors who were in attendance tonight stating that he understood their concerns. On behalf of the House of Pearls, he expressed appreciation to those neighbors for coming to tonight’s meeting. He assured them that if there was any danger or risk, he would not be involved in this ministry. He stated that he is a Pastor and currently lives in Charlotte. Pastor Gilmer said he had lived in Union County for 25 years and operated a welding and machine shop here in Union Countyfor 10 years. He stated that he has been involved with the House of Pearls since its very beginning in various capacities. Pastor Gilmer provided some background on the history of the House of Pearls. He shared that he has taught Sunday School for 15 years throughviaZOOM in all three houses of the House of Pearls. He said he also serves as a Board member for the House of Pearls. Alison Judd stated that she graduated from the House of Pearls in 2021. She gave information on her background of beingas a nurse and having become addicted to drugs while working. She said she had surrendered her nursing license. Ms. Judd stated she went tothatshe attended the House of Pearls and completed the itsprogram, and then reapplied to the North Carolina Board of Nursing. She said she works at Divita in Monroe. She spoke in support of the rezoning and asked the Board to approvalapprove the rezoning request. Vice Chair Christina Helms asked if there waswhetheranyone else in the audience who had not registered to speak but whowould like to comment at this time. A member of the audience came forward and introduced herself as Molly. She stated that she had been through the House of Pearls’ program. twice. She shared that she was now enrolled at Liberty University, studying Psychology, and hoped to help young people and adults with trauma and addiction. She commented about how the House of Pearls has changed her life. There wasNo one else who asked to comment. The Vice Chair closed the public hearing at approximately 7:12 p.m. Jason Kay, County Attorney, explained that for the ones who had requested a vote tonight on this rezoning request, that the Board has a rule in the Board’s Rules of Procedure that werewas adopted many years ago. He statedthat rule prohibits the Board from being able to vote on a request on the same night if there wasopposition is voiced. He said there is a process by which the Board deliberates for a couple of weeks to be able to makesure that good, solid, sound decisions are made for the community. Mr. Kay stated this is a wonderful story about a program that wants to use the site, but it is a land-use-based decision, so the Board needs time to consider the request, and itpetition will be eligible for consideration at the next meeting. Consent Agenda Commissioner Melissa Merrell moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda, as submitted and presented. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows:Vice Chair Christina B. HelmsAyeCommissioner Clancy BaucomAyeCommissioner Melissa MerrellAyeCommissioner Errol WedraAyeChair Brian W. Helms was not present. 26-258Contract – NCDOT Project U-4714AC (SR 1009 Old Monroe Road) – Utility PE and Construction Agreement ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement with theNorth Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 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. The Union County Water (UCW) Capital Improvement Program (CIP) includes an allocation for the design and construction of water line and sewer line betterments related to NCDOT’s multi-phase project for the widening of Old Monroe Road. This agreement with NCDOT is for the phase of the Old Monroe Road widening project from the Mecklenburg County line to near Morningside Meadows Lane. The water line betterments will increase the existing 6-inch and 8-inch water lines to 12-inch and 16-inch water lines to provide sufficient fire flow and pressure to meet future demand. The sewer line betterments will replace the existing 4-inch and 6-inch septic tank effluent gravity (STEG) wastewater collection system with standard 8-inch gravity sewer lines. The water and sewer betterments will be administered by NCDOT as part of the Old Monroe Road widening project. UCW will be responsible for reimbursing NCDOT for the betterment costs in a not to exceed amount of $1,359,307.81. Funding is available within the adopted account 60185527 – 853 West Zone Transmission Main Phase 4 to support the contract amount of $1,359,307.81. 26-259Contract – NCDOT Project U-4714ABA (SR 1009 Old Monroe Road) – Utility PE and Construction Agreement ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement with theNorth Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 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. The Union County Water (UCW) Capital Improvement Program (CIP) includes an allocation for the design and construction of water line and sewer line betterments related to NCDOT’s multi-phase project for the widening of Old Monroe Road. This agreement with NCDOT is for the phase of the Old Monroe Road widening project from Morningside Meadows Lane to South Fork Road. The water line betterments will increase the existing 6-inch water line to an 8-inch water line and will install a new 16-inch water transmission main to provide sufficient fire flow and pressure to meet future demand. The sewer line betterments will replace the existing 4-inch and 6-inch septic tank effluent gravity (STEG) wastewater collection system with standard 8-inch gravity sewer lines. The water and sewer betterments will be administered by NCDOT as part of the Old Monroe Road widening project. UCW will be responsible for reimbursing NCDOT for the betterment costs in a not to exceed amount of $3,221,261.68. Funding is available within the adopted account 60185527 – 853 West Zone Transmission Main Phase 4 to support the contract amount of $3,221,261.68. 26-282Contract – Aeration Tank Cleaning 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. Union County Water owns and operates five Water Reclamation Facilities. As part of routine operations and maintenance of the facility, aeration tanks are put into and taken out of service for inspection, maintenance, and operation. Over time, debris such as rags, grit, sludge, and other debris build up in the tanks and must be removed and disposed of off-site. The Procurement Department partnered with Union County Water to issue Request for Proposals #2026-044 Aeration Tank Cleaning. On March 17, 2026, five 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, Wind River Environmental, LLC, to provide Aeration Tank Cleaning services. This contract has a term of one year. The anticipated cost for this service is $250,000. Sufficient funds were allocated in the FY26 Budget to cover costs associated with this agreement. 26-289Contract – Crooked Creek WRF Filter Replacement ACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., 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. The Capital Improvement Program for Union County Water, as adopted by the Board of County Commissioners, includes funding for rehab and renewal of the Crooked Creek WRF. An evaluation was completed on the Crooked Creek WRF to assess the condition of the facility and identify infrastructure that requires improvements. The filter equipment provides treatment to meet NCDEQ effluent discharge limits. The existing filters are no longer operational due to their age and inability to source outdated components necessary for repair; therefore, this filter replacement project was identified as the first priorityto ensurereplacement forthe facility to continues to comply with its effluent discharge limits. Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., has been selected to provide engineering design and bid services for Task Order 10022-01: Crooked Creek WRF Filter Replacement. Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., was chosen from a list of vendors previously selected from RFQ 2026-002 – Engineering Services for Water Reclamation Facility Improvements to provide these services for Union County Projects. The total cost of Task Order 10022-01 with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C. is $512,000.00. Sufficient funds are available within the adopted capital account 60185100 – Crooked Creek WRF Filter Replacement. 26-278Agreement with Town of Waxhaw for Library Book Locker at Waxhaw Learning Center ACTION: Approved the interlocal agreement with the Town of Waxhaw for the Library Book Locker Unit at the Waxhaw Learning Center. The Town of Waxhaw worked with the Library to determine the most effective way to provide a library service at the Waxhaw Learning Center, the former location of the Waxhaw Library. A smart book locker was selected as the preferred option due to its ease of use and cost-effective model that requires no County funding for materials or equipment. At the request of the Town of Waxhaw and in collaboration with Union County Library, a new book locker will be installed at the Waxhaw Learning Center, located at 509 S. Providence Street, to expand convenient access to library materials for residents in the surrounding community. The smart locker system allows patrons to pick up and return holds through a secure, self-service process with 24/7 access to reserved items. Holds placed through the library catalog are delivered to secure compartments by the library’s courier, and patrons are notified when items are ready. Using a Union County library card, patrons access their assigned compartment, and items are automatically checked out upon retrieval. This model extends library access beyond regular hours while maintaining secure and efficient service. The Town of Waxhaw will fund the purchase of the unit using a donation from the Library Association of Waxhaw (L.A.W.), oversee its installation, and cover ongoing subscription and maintenance costs. Union County Library will partner in delivering the materials and maintaining the locker as part of its services until the locker reaches its end of life. 26-2662026 Union County Jail Bond Referendum ACTION: 1) Adopted Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the County of Union, North Carolina directing the Publication of Notice of Intention to apply to the Local Government Commission for approval of $200,000,000 General Obligation Jail Bonds and 2) Adopt resolution making Certain statements of facts concerning the proposed jail bond issue and authorizing the application to the Local Government Commission for $200,000,000 of general obligation jail bonds. General ObligationsBonds (GO) are widely considered the lowest-interest, most cost-effective financing mechanism for long-term capital projects in North Carolina due to the pledge of the local government's full faith and credit, and taxing power. For North Carolina counties, which are legally required to provide secure, safe, and sanitary inmate housing, financing a jail through a GO bond ensures that the borrowing costs are minimized for the taxpayers, as these bonds typically secure better credit ratings than other debt options. The GO bond process is more rigorous than other financing options (requiring a public vote), however the interest savings from a GO bond make it the preferred tool for construction of a new jail. The Resolution directing publication of notice of intent to apply to the Local Government Commission (LGC) authorizes the Clerk to the Board to publish in the Enquirer Journal the Notice of Intention to Apply to the LGC for approval of Union County Jail Bonds to be placed on the November 2026 election ballot. The Resolution making certain statements of facts concerning the proposed jail bond issue and authorizing the application to the Local Government Commission presents certain findings of facts regarding the proposed bond issuance, financing, increase in taxes, marketing of bonds, estimated interest and authorizes the Finance Director to file with the LGC an application for approval of General Obligation Jail Bonds as described in the resolution. The estimated cumulative cost over the life of the bond, using the highest interest rate of 5.344% charged for similar debt over the last twenty years is estimated at $312,224,000. The estimated maximum annual debt service payment is $20,688,000 beginning in FY 2028 and commencing in FY 2047. The annual estimated amount of property tax liability increases for each $100,000 of property tax value to service the cumulative cost over the life of the bond is estimated at $31.10. The annual estimated amount of property tax liability increases for each $400,000 of property tax value to service the cumulative cost over the life of the bond is estimated at $124.40 (based on 3.11¢ increase in the ad valorem property tax rate). These estimates are based on the legislative requirements of NC Session Law 2022-53 for bond referendums. NOTE TO BARBARA: WILL INSERT ON FRIDAY 26-267Bid Award and Contract – Union County Sheriff’s Office Fueling Station ACTION: 1) Accepted the low bidder, 2) authorized award of the contract to Rushing Contracting Group, Inc., in the amount of $391,067.20, 3) authorized the County Manager to i) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with this Agenda item and ii) terminate the agreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager’s discretion, and 4) adopted Resolution Providing Notice of Construction of the Union County Sheriff’s Office Fueling Station. This contract is to construct a new fueling station located at the rear of the Union County Sheriff’s Office Administration building. This project was identified as a “Critical Infrastructure” project with a goal to provide an independent fuel supply for UCSO vehicles. The need was identified for this independent fuel supply during several disaster events that limited fuel supplies in the region and significantly impacted local gas stations, which have served as the regular fuel supply for UCSO vehicles. The project scope of work includes providing a 12,000-gallon fuel tank, dispensing system, and associated equipment. A three-sided enclosure will be constructed to conceal the fuel tank and provide enhanced security. The fuel management system will integrate with Union County’s existing one. fuel management system.Other accessory work includes replacing a section of asphalt with concrete, installing speed bumps to assist spill containment and traffic calming, and installing a security camera for area surveillance. On February 13, 2026, the Procurement Department partnered with Facilities Management to issue an Invitation for Bid IFB 2026-020 Union County Sheriff’s Office Fuel Station. On March 31, 2026, five (5) responsive bids for the title project were received and processed. All bids were tabulated, reviewed, and certified by Labella Associates, PC. The bids ranged from $391,067.20 to $716,304.06. Staff recommend that the project be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder, Rushing Contracting Group, Inc., Inc. in the amount of $391,067.20. Funding is available within the adopted UC Fueling Stations capital account 40080210 to support the construction contract amount of $391,067.20. INSERT RESOLUTION – WILL INSERT ON FRIDAY The following is a summary of the bids received: 26-269Tax Bill Correction Report for April 2026ACTION: Approved Tax Bill Correction Reports for April 2026 (April Refund amount = $5,399.17) 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. 26-276Interlocal Agreement – Stallings District SACTION: Authorized the County Manager to 1) negotiate and execute an agreement substantially consistent with the agenda item, 2) exercise any renewal or extension term options set forth in the Agreement, 3) terminate the Agreement if deemed in the best interest of the County, each in the County Manager's discretion. Union County Tax Administration serves as the tax collector for the Town of Stallings pursuant to an interlocal agreement executed in 2015 and amended in 2022. District S located within the Town of Stallings was authorized by SL 2023-144 for the purpose of levying and collecting occupancy tax from lodging establishments located within the district. The District S governing board has requested Union County Tax Administration to function as the tax collector for occupancy taxes. Union County will receive 1.25% of revenue collected pursuant to the agreement. 26-241Minutes for Approval ACTION: Approved the minutes of the regular meeting of March 16, 2026 Information Only 26-265Union County Public Schools Annual Financial Comprehensive Report Fiscal Year 2025 ACTION: No action was requested. This item was for information only. Union County Public Schools has completed their ACFR for FY 2025 and has provided a copy based on Section XXIII of the Annual Adopted Budget Ordinance. 26-272Communications Monthly Report – April 2026 ACTION: No action was requested. This item was 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. 26-290Wastewater 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 April 2026 is summarized in the attached table. Twelve Mile Creek •Percent of Actual Flows= 69.5% •Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 88.2% •Actual Flows (MGD)= 5.212 •Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 6.612 Crooked Creek •Percent of Actual Flows= 63.8% •Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 91.4% •Actual Flows (MGD)= 1.212 •Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 1.736 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= 38.0% •Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 38.0% •Actual Flows (MGD)= 0.019 •Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 0.019 Grassy Branch •Percent of Actual Flows= 76.0% •Percent of Actual + Permitted Flows= 78.0% •Actual Flows (MGD)= 0.038 •Actual + Permitted Obligated Flows (MGD)= 0.039 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 April 2026 are summarized in the tables below. Business 26-268America 250 Update Vice Chair Christina Helms recognized Liz Cooper, Public Communications, Director, for staff comments.by staff. Ms. Cooper stated that Union County is proud to join other organizations and municipalities in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. She gave an overview of some of the initiatives and programs that Union County is working on and how it is helping to promote partnerships and events throughout other jurisdictions in the county. She explained that America 250 is a national initiative to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. She reviewed the County’s goals in this initiative: Celebrate local history and heritage. Promote civic pride and community unity. Engage residents of all ages and backgrounds. Highlight Union County contributions to the American story. Offer information and connection to this national initiative. Ms. Cooper discussed specific Union County initiatives and events such as a dedicated webpageunioncountync.gov/America250 on the County’s website, which includes stories and videos leveraging Union County staff. She said events are shared regularly through the Community e-newsletter, Union County Horizon and social media. She highlighted several upcoming events: Veterans Resource Fair – May 30 America 250 student Art Contest – Submissions due June 12 America’s 250th for Kids – Library Program Series Board of Commissioners Proclamation – June 16, 2026, regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners recognizing July 2026 as “America 250 Month” in Union County Firework and Summary Safety in partnership with the Fire Marshal’s Office America 250: Country Under the Stars Concert – July 25 hosted by Union County Parks and Recreation at the Simpson Event Center Ms. Cooper said there are a number of events throughout the County for residents to be involved in. Information on these events areislisted on the County’s website. She emphasized that there are a number ofseveral people, both within the County organization, among municipal partners, and community partners, who are bringing the patriotic spirit of this celebration to life. She expressed appreciation to Vanessa Martin who is assisting the County Departments and updating the County’s website with thecurrent informationregardingaboutthe celebration. Ms. Cooper recognized the Fire Marshal’s Office for designing a Challenge Coin for America 250, and she provided the members of the Board with one of the challenge coins. 26-284Drought Update Vice Chair Christina Helms recognized Aubrey Lofton, Union County Water, Director – Planning and Resource Management, for staff comments. Ms. Lofton stated that the entire region is in a drought. She said they are really starting to see the impacts inon customer demand with a 37 percent increase in demand over last year. She stated that the County is part of the Catawba Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group, and it has declared aStage Two Drought Restrictions. Ms. Lofton said it has moved quickly from Stage One to Stage Two. She explained that a Stage Two requires new mandatory restrictions for customers. Ms. Lofton shared a graph of approximately two and a half years showing where the County should be with typical rainfall. She stated thatthere have only been two months in that time periodsince Hurricane Helene in the Charlotte area that had received the average amount of rain. She explained that the Drought Management Advisory Group isreviewing the low inflow protocol for the Catawba Basin. She pointed out that there are three main triggers,with the primary one being the reservoirs. She said the other two triggers are the six-month average of streamflow and the third trigger is the U.S. Drought Monitor. Ms. Lofton highlighted thatthe six-month streamflow average is already so low. She explained that in orderto move back to a Stage One in the protocol, all three triggers would have to move back to Stage One. She said that it would be in Stage Two for a while and would take months of sustained rains for it to begin to recover. She shared a comparison of the U.S. Drought Monitor from March 2026 toMay 2026, and commented on how much worse it has gotten during this time. She also shared a one-week comparison of the U.S. Drought Monitor of North Carolina and referred toreferencedthe one rain event that took place during that time, which took Union County out of the D4 (Exceptional Drought) Designation, and some areas in the Catawba Wateree Basin recovered to the D2 Designation. She stressed that it would take a lot of sustained rain to begin reversing the impacts. Ms. Lofton provided some historical context, showing a slide going back to 2006. She said that since then that time, it has been dipping in and out of Stage One, but it has not been atStage Two since the2007-2009 drought of record for the Catawba Basin. She explaitned explainedthat the low inflow protocol is tied to the Duke Energy’s federal operating license issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). She stated that Union County has a Water Shortage Response Plan that it can implement when duringdroughts.occur.Ms. Lofton said the Water Shortage Response Plan had a major updated in 2015 to update information learned from the last drought,and also as part of the Inter-basin Transfer. She noted that Union County was required to have the most stringent Water Conservation Plan and Drought Management Plan as a part of pursuing an inter-basin transfer. She reviewed the different reasons that can trigger a water shortage, with the top one being resource limitations, which means drought. Ms. Lofton said that no matter why a water shortage is declared, all of the stages and responses are the same. She explained thataStage Two looks toreduce usage by five to ten percent. She reviewed the required actions under the Water Shortage Response Plan, most of which have already happened. which have all mostly happened. She said that a Stage Two was declared on May 15. She stated that enforcement is a part of the required actions. Ms. Lofton shared the Mandatory Restrictions under the Stage Two: She reminded all about the civil penalties for violations contained in the Water Shortage Response Plan and emphasized that they want to focus on education, but said there is an obligation to begin enforcement for violations. Ms. Lofton noted that with the Stage Two Declaration, there are escalated rates pointing outincluding Tier 4 and Tier 5 on the irrigation and residential rates,and also non-residential, agriculture, and industrial rate changes. She reminded the Board about the annual rate increases that are already scheduled will start July 1. 26-188Marshville Bypass Tolling Proposal Vice Chair Christina Helms recognized Bjorn Hansen, Planning Department, Senior Planner – Long Range Planning, for staff comments. Mr. Hansen stated that this is an update on a matter that the Board requested several years ago, which was a proposal to evaluate the Marshville Bypass as a tolled project. He shared the following slide showing the proposed project: Mr. Hansen pointed out the Monroe Expressway, which has been built and shown in solid blue. He explained that the blue dashed line is the proposed Marshville Bypass, currently shown going on the south side of Marshville. He stated thatit is noted later in the presentation that this does not mean where it absolutely has tomust go, but it is the first cut of an alignment. He said the cost is estimated at $287 million in last year’s dollars. In terms of access, he said it would behave like the Monroe Expressway with an interchange on the west side of Marshville, one on the south side – Landsford Road, and one on the east side where it accesses the existing U.S. Highway 74. Mr. Hansen provided ahistory onof the project dating back 40 plus years:Mr. Hansen said he had mentioned discussing it as a standalone project. He stated that the Monroe Expressway is a standalone project; however, because this would be a direct continuation of it, the North Carolina Department of Transportation said that it could be evaluated as an overalla part of the Monroe Expressway. He stressed the importance of this is because, by itself, the Marshville Bypass does not generate enough money to be worth tolling. He said thatas part of the overall expressway, it does. He stated that approximately three-quarters of the cost would be paid for throughcovered by tolls on the existing Monroe Expressway. He stated the scenario would be that it would have to be extended out approximately 16 years. Mr. Hansen said that, as it currently stands, the rules are that when the bonds that helped pay for it are paid off, they would expire, which would occur in the 2050s2050’s. He stated the proposal would be to extend it out to 2070, which is the practical limit for bonding out revenues. He said this would apply to the entire corridor, and the same funding and billing structure would remain. He further said that only at that point that when a project was decided to actually take the project forward to implementation, would the actual alignment be set. He discussed the study area for the Wadesboro Bypass, which is partially funded. Mr. Hansen said that the Transportation Planning Organization for Wadesboro set the alignment on the north side of Wadesboro; however, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, through its environmental analysis, is looking at both on the north and the south side of Wadesboro. He stressed that this is important because the same type of assumption should be made withfor Marshville, because he could not say absolutely that it will go on the south side of Marshville. He said a lot of development has been approved on the south side, and itwhichcould make it more difficult to get a corridor around and through those developments, so it could make more sense to go on the north side. He stated thatthose decisions will not be made until it is a funded project. Mr. Hansen addressed the local impacts of a bypass. He shared a screen capture of Union County points to the east and into Charlotte, showing 2025 traffic data for U.S. Highway 74. He stated that a good amount of trafficthat goes on U.S. Highway 74 on a weekdaypeels off and goes on the Monroe Expressway, and the traffic that goes on the existing Highway 74 through Wingate gradually declines as it reaches its destinations. Mr. Hansen stated that the traffic wanting to get through Union County is taking the Bypass and then it splits off on I-485 or Highway 74 into Mecklenburg County. He said it is even more apparent for truck traffic. He stated there is a healthy percent of the traffic that is directly to the port of Wilmington and does not stop. He stressed that this is important to note, because it is a statewide caliber project. He stated another local impact of a bypass is that state law says when non Department of Transportation revenues are generated to help pay for a project, there is a rebate or bonus. He said for Union County, Marshville, and all of the municipalities based on the distribution formula was approved, approximately $100 million would come to Union County to apply to projects. He said Union County would need to work with the Department of Transportation, because in most cases, it would be the one delivering the projects. He stated this would be money dedicated to Union County, Marshville, and other relevant municipalities, and this would be as a benefit to bringing new money to the table to help pay for transportation projects. Mr. Hansen shared historic traffic volumes along U.S. 74 and the Expressway since the early 2000’s. He noted that at the County line at Peachland, during a 15-year period, Union County more than doubled in population and traffic on U.S. Highway 74 did not change, but immediately after the Expressway opened, it increased almost one-third. He said the Expressway has had impacts. He said traffic has increased in Marshville and decreased in Wingate. He said the Expressway is doing what it is supposed todo,be doing, and what is being reduced is the truck traffic. He stated that this isreallyimportant, because that is where the noise, pollution, and safety concerns occur, so by diverting it onto an Expressway away from downtown Marshville is beneficial. He reviewed the implementation timeline and stated that the County has roughly until Labor Day to decide whether to support consider supportingthe tolling proposal. He explained that it would then go to the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO), and the CRTPO Board would have to vote and endorse it as a toll project, which allows it to be submitted to the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the remaining one-quarter of the funding that would not be covered by the tolls. He said it is a fairlycompetitive project with 75 percent being funded by non-Department of Transportation sources. He said there is a good chance the remaining monies will be found in the STIP process. He stated the project would be submitted in 2027 and if everything goes well, in 2028, it would be included in the Statewide Tier of STIP funding, and in 2029, it would be adopted with this project included in the list, and at that point the State can start the machinery of issuing bonds, doing the design work, contacting property owners about purchasing rights of ways and actually building it. He added that it is a project that could be built in the 2030’s2030s under this scenario. Mr. Hansen said that thestaff presented the proposal to Marshville at its council meeting on May 4, 2026. He said they received it very favorably and had no concerns withabout meeting to talk through it with the County. He stated that the Council authorized its Town Manager to coordinate a joint meeting between the Town and the County. He recognized Kendall Clanton from the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization, who was present. 26-242Appointments to Boards and Committees Vice Chair Christina Helms announced that there were five Boards with vacancies for consideration. She noted that the vacancies have been advertised in accordance with applicable law.Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) Commissioner Merrell moved to appoint the following persons to serve on the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council in the positions noted: John Kirkpatrick – Member of Faith Community (reappointment) Angela Watkins – Juvenile Defense Attorney (reappointment) James Johnson, Jr. – County Commissioner Appointee (reappointment) Natasha Stoval – County Commissioner Appointee (reappointment) Jim Chaffin – Parks and Recreation Representative (reappointment) Delan Fulgham – United Way/Other Nonprofit Representative The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present. Land Use Board Commissioner Melissa Merrell moved to reappoint the following persons to serve on the Land Use Board: Richard Davis Charles Darren Greene Andrew Medlin The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present.South Piedmont Community CollegeCommissioner Merrell moved to appoint Tom Eck to serve on the South Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present.Centralina Workforce Development BoardCommissioner Merrell moved to appoint Natalie Ward to serve as the Vocational Rehabilitation Representative on the Centralina Workforce Development Board. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present. Consolidated Human Services BoardCommissioner Merrell moved to appoint the following persons to serve on the Consolidated Human Services Board in the positions noted:Amy Dickey – Consumer of Human Services position (reappointment)Brandy Smith – Other Person positionThe motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present. County Manager’s CommentsBrian W. Matthews, County Manager, had no closing comments.Commissioners’ CommentsCommissioner Clancy Baucom encouraged everyone to pray for rain.Commissioner Melissa Merrell had no comments.Commissioner Errol Wedra expressed appreciation to the speakers tonight and to the staff for all their work.they do.Vice Chair Christina B. Helms also expressed appreciation to the speakers who attended tonight’s meeting, those for and against the rezoning request for the House of Pearls. ’ rezoning request. She stated that it is a great organization, and there were many moving testimonies.tonight.She said she was very excited withabout Liz Cooper’s presentation tonight on the America 250 update. She reiterated Commissioner Baucom’s comments encouraging everyone to pray for rain. AdjournmentWith there being no further comments or discussion, at approximately 7:49 p.m., Vice Chair Christina Helms moved to adjourn the regular meeting. The motion passed by a vote of four to zero as follows: Vice Chair Christina HelmsAye Commissioner Clancy BaucomAye Commissioner Melissa MerrellAye Commissioner Errol WedraAye Chair Brian Helms was not present.