Minutes of the regular meeting of

The Union County Board of Commissioners met in a regular meeting on Monday, March 15, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room, First Floor, Union County Government Center, 500 North Main Street, Monroe, North Carolina. The following were PRESENT: Chairwoman Kim Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Tracy Kuehler, Commissioner Allan Baucom, Commissioner A. Parker Mills, Jr., and Commissioner Lanny Openshaw Al Greene, County Manager; Matthew Delk, Assistant County Manager; Lynn G. West, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners; Jeff Crook, Senior Staff Attorney; Keith Merritt, County Attorney; members of the press, and interested citizens
OPENING OF MEETING:

At approximately 7:00 p.m., Chairwoman Rogers opened the regular meeting and welcomed everyone present. Invocation:
Commissioner Baucom offered the invocation. b. Pledge of Allegiance:
Chairwoman Rogers led the body in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag. Featured Community Benefit Organization:
Kathy Bragg, Executive Director of the Union County Chapter of the American Red Cross, stated that her presence tonight is especially timely because March is the time of year that municipalities all across the country recognize the American Red Cross in their communities as American Red Cross month. Mrs. Bragg shared a brief profile of the Union County Chapter of the American Red Cross. She said that she would venture to say that the Red Cross is one of the oldest non-profit organizations in Union County. She shared that in 2009, the Union County Red Cross provided 19,736 services. She stated that the Red Cross has a number of events coming up in the future, including the Rhapsody in Red Gala on April 17, 2010, at Rolling Hills Country Club. She said that Sheriff Eddie Cathey and Monroe Fire Chief Ron Fowler are Chairs of the Heroes for the American Red Cross Campaign, which will take place during the months of April and May. She stated that there would be a Heroes Community Breakfast in May to honor those in the community who have saved lives or performed heroic acts. She said that the Commissioners would receive invitations to this breakfast. Employee Service Award Recognitions:
On behalf of the Board, Chairwoman Rogers recognized the following employees for their years of service with Union County 5 YEARS OF SERVICE
DEPARTMENT

10 YEARS OF SERVICE
DEPARTMENT

20 YEARS OF SERVICE
DEPARTMENT

25 YEARS OF SERVICE
DEPARTMENT
Communications Staff Recognition of National Accreditation in Emergency Medical Dispatch and Emergency
Fire Dispatch:

Al Greene, County Manager, stated that on January 4, 2010, the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch formally awarded
accreditation to the Union County Communications Center as an Emergency Medical Dispatch Center of Excellence. He shared that Union County’s Emergency Communications Center is one of 132 communities that hold that designation. He stated that on February 1, 2010, the National Academies of Dispatch awarded accreditation as an Emergency Fire Dispatch Center of Excellence to the County’s Communications Center. He pointed out that Union County’s Communications Center is only one of 13 communities that has received that award. Further, he said that the Union County Emergency Dispatch Center is one of 11 communities worldwide that has received both of these accreditations. Mr. Greene stated that five of the County’s Communications employees are present: Amanda Helms, Sharon Crooke, Amanda Smith, Kimberly Latson, and Susan Furr. He asked the Communications employees to come forward to receive the accreditation award from Chairwoman Rogers. Earth Day Logo Contest Winners Recognition:
Chairwoman Rogers recognized Nikki Hatch from General Services to explain the recognitions. She said that she had sent information to several local schools, colleges, all high schools and some middle schools seeking Earth Day logos that captures the essence of Union County. She shared that she had received 157 entries which were judged by a panel of six judges. Ms. Hatch said that there were a total of seven students who submitted entries with three students having submitted one entry. Joyce Rodriguez, (present) Miles Laney, (present) Emily Davis (not present) Chairwoman Rogers presented Certificates of Recognition to the winner and runners up. Ms. Hatch stated that the winner of the Logo contest received a season’s pass to the White Water Rafting Center in Charlotte. She shared that all of the entries would be on display during the Earth Day Events on Saturday, April 17, 2010.
Informal Comments:

Chairwoman Rogers stated that two persons had registered to speak during the informal comments and explained that they would each have three minutes in which to present their comments. The first speaker recognized was Tom Williams, who resides at 3205 Chancellor Lane, Monroe, North Carolina. Mr. Williams stated that he has been a citizen of Union County for 69 years. He said that perhaps one of the most remarkable changes in Union County over the last 15 years has been that of the hospital. He said that he served nine years as a member of the Hospital’s Community Trustee Council. He stated that the Board of Commissioners made a wise decision in 1995 to lease Union Regional Medical Center to the Carolinas Healthcare System. Mr. Williams stated that at the time the lease was approved, the local hospital had fallen far behind the times and many of the County’s citizens had lost confidence in the hospital and were going elsewhere for care. He said that Union County leadership recognized that it would require substantial resources and expertise to reinvigorate the hospital and found the ideal partner in Carolinas Healthcare System. He stated that the citizens of Union County and surrounding counties have benefited from the progress that the hospital has made over the past 15 years as witnessed by CMC-Union being named last year as one of the top 100 hospitals in the entire country in both heart attack and pneumonia care. Mr. Williams said that CHS has invested more than $170 million in capital improvements including many improvements to the hospital in Union County. He stated that through physician recruitment and medical staff development, the medical staff has grown to more than 400 physicians from less than 100 in 1995, including many specialists. He said that there are more than 1,400 dedicated employees making CMC-Union one of the largest and best employers in Union County. He stated that the service enhancements provided by CMC-Union over the past 15 years are almost too numerous to mention ranging from cancer treatment, out-patient services, and new medical offices to obstetrical care, cardio vascular and long-term care. He said that equally important are the investment plans for the future at CMC-Union that will ensure that it can meet the ever changing healthcare needs of a growing population by adding tertiary level services and keeping more residents in Union County for their medical care. Mr. Williams stated that Carolinas Healthcare Systems has proven time and again that it is committed to continuously re- investing in facilities, service, and people. He said that Carolinas Healthcare System is ready, willing, and able to help CMC-Union transform itself once again by finding an equitable solution with the County’s leadership but more importantly for the advancement of healthcare for the citizens of Union County. He stated that the process of trying to sell the hospital is incredibly disruptive to the employees and physicians of CMC-Union and to healthcare in Union County, and all the citizens deserve better. He said that Carolinas Healthcare System has made amazing progress in enhancing the quality, care, and services of CMC- Union. He stated that today the County has a hospital that the residents have confidence in and one in which the employees and physicians have tremendous pride in. He said that Carolinas Healthcare System should be the only organization that the County should be discussing the future of CMC-Union with, and they deserve the opportunity to keep dancing with CMC-Union. John Roberts said that he has been a resident of Union County for the past 14 years and resides in Weddington. He stated that currently he is the Assistant Vice President and Administrator of Carolinas Rehabilitation Hospitals. He said that he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of CMC-Union from 1996 to 2007 and could, therefore, attest to the track record of Carolinas Healthcare System and CMC-Union and to the many accomplishments as well as to the clinical, programmatic, and facility improvements as noted by Mr. Williams. Mr. Roberts said that prior to 1995, the year that CHS was awarded the lease of the hospital, Union County received one dollar per year as lease payment by those who were operating Union Memorial Hospital at the time. He stated that in the ensuing 13 years of the current lease, Carolinas Healthcare System and CMC-Union have paid Union County over $31 million in lease payments versus the $13 that it would have received otherwise. Mr. Roberts stated that during the same 13 years, over $177 million have been invested in new construction, equipment, and program development transitioning Union Memorial Hospital into a full-service, state-of-the-art facility, now known as Carolinas Medical Center-Union. He said that all of this was done without investment by Union County and at no expense to Union County residents. He stated that he has always thought it is a societal responsibility to meet the healthcare needs of the poor and the indigent. Mr. Roberts said that CMC-Union has provided healthcare and hospital services to the poor of Union County without requesting any financial contributions from Union County's citizens. He stated that the management team of CHS and CMC-Union is doing a lot of things right. Mr. Roberts said that it is in Union County’s best interest to lock down a long-term relationship with Carolinas Healthcare System. He stated that he understood that the Board was interested in selling CMC-Union or having a different relationship with Carolinas Healthcare System. He said that the current lease, with more than 10 years remaining, would make it very difficult to sell the facility to other suitors. He stated that for this reason, it makes it very obvious that Kaufman Hall should be negotiating directly and aggressively with Carolinas Healthcare Systems’ representatives. He said that he thought it was important to document publicly the efforts that Carolinas Healthcare System has made to meet with Union County representatives. He stated that CHS has sent several letters to the County offering to meet with the Union County Commissioners or their representatives and its consultant, Kaufman Hall, to negotiate in good faith. He said that the first letter was sent in November 2009 to all Commissioners as well as the County’s Administrative Staff and the County’s legal counsel. He stated that two other letters were sent to Union County's legal counsel and one was sent directly to Kaufman Hall over the last three weeks indicating Carolinas Healthcare Systems’ desire to meet with Union County Commissioners and the consultant. Mr. Roberts said that until late Friday afternoon, there had not been an acknowledgement of these letters. At this time, Chairwoman Rogers reminded Mr. Roberts that his three minutes were up and asked he conclude his comments. Mr. Roberts requested that the Board add an item to tonight’s agenda and to pass a motion directing Kaufman Hall to contact Carolinas Healthcare Systems’ representative tomorrow and ask them to have a meeting scheduled within a week. He said that he was confident that the results of that meeting would bring a recommendation back that will meet the County’s needs and that the Board would be able to approve quickly. In closing, Mr. Roberts reiterated his request to add an agenda item to tonight’s meeting for a motion to request that Kaufman Hall meet with Carolinas Healthcare System immediately. Chairwoman Rogers asked Mr. Roberts for clarification if he were an employee of CHS. Mr. Roberts stated that this was
Additions, Deletions and/or Adoption of Agenda:

Chairwoman Rogers requested to move Item 9 – Local Area Regional Transportation Plan (LARTP) on the regular agenda to become Item 6b. She said that Mr. Hanson is present from the Centralina Council of Governments. Also she requested to move Item 8 – Community Proclamation of American Red Cross Month - to become Item 3b so this item can be considered prior to the Board’s returning to closed session. The third request was to add a closed session to the agenda. (Chairwoman Rogers assigned this item to become 3b on the Commissioner Openshaw requested the addition of an agenda item to the Regular Agenda to appoint two Commissioners to meet with and to communicate with Carolinas Healthcare System concerning the Waxhaw emergency department. (Chairwoman Rogers assigned this item to become Item 13a on the Regular Agenda.) Commissioner Mills requested to add an item, as requested by John Roberts in informal comments, to direct representatives of Kaufman Hall and members of County staff to contact Carolinas Healthcare leadership tomorrow to schedule a meeting to continue their discussions. (Chairwoman Rogers assigned this item to become 13b on the Regular Agenda.) Vice Chairwoman Kuehler moved approval to: Move Item 9 on the Regular Agenda to become Item 6b on the Regular Agenda. Move Item 8 on the Regular Agenda to become Item 3b on the Regular Agenda. Add an item to the agenda for a closed session as Item 3b on the Regular Agenda. Al Greene, County Manager, suggested that approval of the items on the Consent Agenda be considered by the Board prior to going into closed session, due to a number of people in the audience being present for the consent agenda items. Chairwoman Rogers stated that the Closed Session would now become Item 4b on the Regular Agenda and asked if there were a motion to amend the order of the agenda, which was previously voted on by the Board. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler moved to amend the motion previously voted on as follows, in order for the Consent Agenda to be considered prior to the closed session, for approval to: 1. Move Item 9 on the Regular Agenda to become Item 6b on the Regular Agenda. 2. Move Item 8 on the Regular Agenda to become Item 3b on the Regular Agenda. 3. Add an item to the agenda for a closed session as Item 4b on the Regular Agenda. Chairwoman Rogers stated that the next item would be to vote on adding an Item 13a to the Regular Agenda to appoint two Commissioners to meet with and to communicate with Carolinas Healthcare System concerning the Waxhaw emergency department. Commissioner Mills moved approval to add an Item 13a to the Regular Agenda as stated. The motion passed by a vote of four to one. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, Commissioner Baucom, Commissioner Mills, Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers voted against the motion. Chairwoman Rogers stated that the next item would be a vote on adding an Item 13b to the Regular Agenda to direct representatives of Kaufman Hall and members of County staff to contact Carolinas Healthcare leadership tomorrow to schedule a meeting to continue their discussions. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler questioned this item being added to tonight’s agenda. She said that this is the third time this request has been on the agenda, and it is the third time that Kaufman Hall has been requested to contact Carolinas Healthcare to have discussions with Carolinas Healthcare System. Chairwoman Rogers asked Commissioner Mills if his motion were to force this to happen tomorrow. Commissioner Mills responded “tomorrow or as soon as possible.” Commissioner Baucom moved to add an item to the agenda as 13b to direct representatives of Kaufman Hall and members of County staff to contact Carolinas Healthcare leadership tomorrow to schedule a meeting to continue their discussions. The motion failed by a vote of two to three. Commissioner Baucom and Commissioner Mills voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Openshaw voted against the motion. Chairwoman Rogers explained her opposition to the motion was because the Board has already taken this action. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler moved adoption of the Agenda as amended. The motion was passed unanimously.
Community Proclamation of American Red Cross Month (This item was moved from Item 8 on the Agenda to become Item
3a):

Kathy Bragg, Executive Director of the Union County Chapter of the American Red Cross, presented the request for adoption of a Proclamation of American Red Cross to proclaim March as Red Cross month in Union County. Chairwoman Rogers read the proposed proclamation into the record, as recorded below: AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH 2010
Union County Proclamation
The American Red Cross fulfills a unique and vital role in our state, providing help and hopes in the face of emergencies and disaster, and is a true reflection of the humanitarian and volunteer spirit of the American people. For nearly 100 years, Presidents have called on the American people to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian mission. In World War I, President Woodrow Wilson ordered the Red Cross to raise funds to support emergency aid to the military, as mandated by the Red Cross Congressional Charter. At that time, the American Red Cross set a goal of $125 million and in less than six weeks donations totaled nearly $146 million – a tribute to the overwhelming generosity of the American public. In 1943, during World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first president to proclaim March as Red Cross Month and called on Americans to “rededicate themselves to the splendid aims and activities of the Red Cross.” President Roosevelt’s call to action nearly 70 years ago started a tradition of designating March as Red Cross Month, a time to recognize and support the valuable work of the American Red Cross by making a financial contribution, donating blood, taking a life-saving class, or volunteering to help the Red Cross perform its mission. Every day, through its network of employees and volunteers across Union County, North Carolina, America and the world, the American Red Cross is there to save the day when disaster strikes or when a neighbor’s house burns down. It is there when someone needs life-saving blood, or the comfort of a helping hand. It connects military families with their loved ones in service, and provides training in CPR, aquatics safety, and first aid. It spreads humanitarian aid and goodwill to people around the world. Our county depends on the American Red Cross and because it is not a government agency, the Red Cross depends on support from the public to continue its humanitarian work. This is especially important in these challenging economic times for the Red Cross and all Americans. NOW, THEREFORE, the Union County Board of Commissioners, does hereby proclaim March 2010 as American Red Cross Month and encourages all Americans to support this organization and its noble humanitarian mission. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 15th day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten. Following the reading of the proclamation, Commissioner Baucom moved adoption of the Proclamation as read. The motion was passed unanimously.
Consent Agenda:

Commissioner Mills moved approval of the items listed on the Consent Agenda. The motion was passed unanimously.
Minutes: Approved minutes of the regular meeting of March 1, 2010, and the special meeting of May 13, 2009.
Tax Administrator: Approved the ninth motor vehicle billing in the grand total of $849,865.94.
Tax Administrator: Approved the eighth motor vehicle refund register for the period of February 1, 2010 – February 28, 2010, in the
net grand total of $1,611.59-.
Tax Administrator: Approved the eighth motor vehicle release register for the period of February 1, 2010 – February 28, 2010, in the
net grand total of $5,013.12-.
Tax Administrator: Approved releases for February 2010 in the grand total of $68,173.84, as recorded below:
Release #
Totals-2010
Release #
7,832.12
3,667.93
1,539.53
1,581.60
5,813.07
2,609.24
6,304.20
2,107.03
4,937.02
Totals-2009
43,447.78
Release #
7,832.12
3,384.88
1,539.53
Totals-2008
14,857.36
Release #
2,805.57
Totals-2007
2,999.42
Release #
2,452.31
Totals-2006
2,452.31
Release #
1,864.41
Totals-2005
2,246.20
Release #
1,453.40
Totals-2004
1,453.40
GRAND TOTALS
68,173.84

Contracts/Purchase Orders Over $20,000: Authorized the County Manager to approve the following contracts/purchase orders,
pending legal review: 1) Risk Management: Broker of Record Letters and Agreement with Wells Fargo Insurance Services for
Property and Casualty Insurance Consulting Services; 2) Health Department: Consolidated Agreement between the State of North
Carolina and the Union County Health Department for FY 2010/2011; 3) Public Works: Amendment to Agreement with U. S. Tire
Recycling; and 4) Interlocal Agreement with Participating Municipalities for Carolina Threadtrail Planning Grant.
Motor Vehicle Tax Refunds for February 2010: Approved motor vehicle tax refund overpayments for February 2010 in the amount
of $8,652.97
February 2010 Budget Transfers Report: Approved budget transfers report for February 2010
Extension of Term of Member on the Union County Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee: Approved
extending term of Beatrice Colson on the Union County Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee from May
2011 to December 2011.
Medicaid Rates and Health Department Fee Schedule: Adopted the Medicaid Rates and approved the Health Department’s Fee
Schedule for 2009-2010 (All fees have been approved by the Board of Health) as recorded below:
SERVICE DESCRIPTION
SLIDES CODE MOD.
New Patient Preventive Health Visits - Child Health
New Patient Evaluation & Management Visits
Established Patient Preventive Health Visits - Child
Established Patient Preventive Health Visits - Women's Health
Established Patient Evaluation & Management Visits
Antepartum Care Global (4-6 visits) *BCBS Outpatient
Consultation
Immunizations/
Injections
Administer Single Vaccine/Each Additional This is a modifer attached to administration code for Medicaid billing for recipients less than 21 y/o. Administration Fee - Flu (Medicare only) $17.49 Administration Fee - Pne(Medicare only) $17.49 Procedures/
Supplies
Incision/Drainage - complicated or multiple Removal of skin tags, ea./10 (in addition to Wedge Excision of Skin (Ingrown Toe Nail) Must Use Destruction of One Lesion - "Wart" Together Destruction of Two-14 Lesions - "Warts" Destruction of lesion, penis (condyloma) Removal of Foreign Body,External Auditory Special Clinic/Home Visiting Services
Medical Nutrition Therapy- Re-Assessment Dental Services/Child Health Clinic
Initial Oral
Screening
Dental Services/Dental Clinic
Resin - 1 Surface, Anterior, Prim. & Perm. Resin - 2 Surface, Anterior, Prim. & Perm. Resin - 3 Surface, Anterior, Prim. & Perm. Resin - 4 Surface, Anterior, Prim. & Perm. Resin - 2 Surface,Post Prim. & Perm. Resin - 3 Surface, Post & Perm. Only Resin - 4 Surface, Post Prim. & Perm. Crown - Porcelain fused to high noble metal Pin Retention - per tooth/in add. To perm Post & Core(Add. To crown)Indirectly Prefabricated Post & Core (in add. To Root Canal Therapy - pre-molar (bicuspid) Perio Scaling/Root Planing-1 to 3/Quadrant Maxillary Partial Denture-Cast Metal w/Resin Reline Maxillary Partial Denture (Chairside) Reline Complete Mandibular Denture (Lab) Interim Complete Denture (Maxillary/Temp) Maxillofacial Prosthesis (Hard Night Guard) Lab Services - In-
Collection of Venous Blood by Venipuncture Urinalysis - Automated without microscopy FEES FOR COPYING MEDICAL
RECORDS
REFERENCE LAB (REFERENCE LAB BILLS MEDICAID)
Antibody Screening (Atypiccal Antibodies) Antibody Screening (Atypiccal Antibodies)
Wingate and Marshville Agreements Revised Timeline: Accepted timeline as set out below and directed staff to work with Chair to
develop letters to Marshville and Wingate:
Marshville/Wingate Wastewater Agreements Managers of the desire to renegotiate agreements to agree to move forward and direct their Actions by Town Councils to move forward and our Board on major points / positions for this agreement and direction to proceed Review and approval by governing boards 1 month agreement, committed capacity, inflow and infiltration reduction, allocation method and Amendments to Bylaws of Library Board of Trustees: Referred the Bylaws to the Library Board of Trustees for further consideration
to include suggestions of the Chair.
2010 Board of Equalization and Review Chairmanship: Appointed Dutch Hardison as the 2010 Board of Equalization and Review
Chairman.
Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Grant Application for the Criminal Justice Partnership Program: Authorized staff to sign and submit the
Criminal Justice Partnership Program Application for continuation of implementation funding.
Information Only – No Action Required: The following information was included in the agenda package with no action required: 1)
Union County Personnel Department’s Monthly Report for February 2010; 2) Union County Department of Inspections’ Monthly
Report for February 2010; and 3) Update from Communications Regarding Implementation of Radio System.

Closed Session (Added to the Agenda):

At approximately 7:50 p.m., Chairwoman Rogers moved that the Board go into closed session to consult with an attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege in accordance with G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3); and 2) discuss matters relating to the location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area served by the public body, including agreement on a tentative list of economic development incentives that may be offered by the public body in negotiations in accordance with G.S. § 143-318.11(a)(4). The Commissioners moved to the Conference Room, first floor, Union County Government Center, where the Chairwoman At the conclusion of the closed session, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Commissioner Mills moved that the Board go out of closed session. The motion was passed unanimously. The Commissioners returned to the Board Room, and at approximately 8:50 p.m., the Chairwoman reconvened the regular meeting.
Public Information Officer’s Comments:

Chairwoman Rogers recognized Brett Vines, Public Information Officer, for his comments. Mr. Vines stated that the Census Bureau began mailing its forms. He said that if the forms are not completed and returned to the Census Bureau, they would send a representative to the residences to assist in completing the information. He said that the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services now has a toll free information referral services (1- 800-662-7030). He shared that this department has specialists available to assist from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 365 days a year. Mr. Vines stated that office could answer questions about Veterans Services, Child Support, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, etc. He said that for military service members who have had their enlistment extended or their retirement suspended due to stop loss are eligible for retro stop loss special pay if they served on active duty between September 11, 2001, and September 30, 2009. He explained that stop loss is a tool used by the military that allows the Department of Defense to retain critical service members needed in a time of war to meet the demands of war. He said that those service members eligible for the retro active stop loss special payments have until now to October 21, 2010, to submit their applications to their respective services. He stated that through December 2009, approximately 15,000 veterans and current members had applied for the stop loss payment. He said that the average lump sum payment made to eligible Army veterans is $4,500. Mr. Vines encouraged anyone who has questions regarding the stop loss payment to contact the Union County Veterans Services Offices. He shared that some UNC-Charlotte students are assisting the County in developing a programming strategy and a plan for the County’s Government Channel (UCTV 16), and part of the information that they are gathering is from a survey. He said they have conducted some telephone surveys with citizens and some in-person surveys in Union County. He stated that the survey is posted on the County’s website, and he encouraged everyone to complete the survey online. Mr. Vines stated that a Shining Star Showcase for Union County youth will be held on Saturday, March 27, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Union County Agricultural Center. He said that the cost is $10, and former Carolina Panther player, Mike Mintor, will be the keynote speaker. He stated that anyone wanting tickets for the event can contact Lisa Eubanks at the Ag Center. He shared that the Union County Smart Start will be having a dog walk on Saturday, April 10, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in downtown Monroe and sponsors and vendors are welcome. He stated that anyone wanting more information can call Kim Wolfe at Smart Start in Monroe. He said that all of the proceeds from the event will benefit children’s programs supported by Union Smart Start. Commissioner Baucom asked Mr. Vines for additional information regarding the Shining Star Showcase. Richard Melton, County Extension Agent, explained that it is a 4-H event. Commissioner Mills stated that there are people in the schools who have won some State championships, and he asked for a concurrence of the Board to request Mr. Vines to contact those recipients and request that they attend a future Board of
Commissioners’ meeting to be recognized for their achievements. There was a consensus from the Board regarding this request.
Old Business:
Recommendation for Agenda Software:

Chairwoman Rogers recognized Al Greene, County Manager, for his comments regarding this item. Mr. Greene explained the process followed by staff in developing its recommendation to the Board and the benefits that is anticipated to be derived from the recommended software. He stated that staff was recommending Sire Technologies. He introduced Winona Harlow, Web Page Manager for Union County, to demonstrate the indexing feature of the software. Mrs. Harlow explained that the recommended software by Sire Technologies is a comprehensive approach. Mrs. Harlow demonstrated Frisco, Texas, website which utilizes the Sire Technologies software showing the agenda and meeting videos. Chairwoman Rogers offered Mrs. West the opportunity to comment. Mrs. West stated that she believed the recommended software would be helpful not only in the minutes preparation but also would provide much benefit to the agenda process. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler asked for clarification of the amounts shown for retrofitting the Board’s Conference Room and the Personnel Training Room. Barry Wyatt, General Services Director, responded that the cost is basically $5,000 per room to place sound capabilities in the rooms. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler questioned why install the sound capabilities in both rooms, and noted the Personnel Training Room is the one that accommodates more people. Mr. Greene explained that the reason that the Personnel Training Room was used more was not only to accommodate the number of attendees but also because of the its technology capabilities for PowerPoint presentations. Chairwoman Rogers said personally for now she would say to not install sound capabilities in the Conference Room, as it Commissioner Baucom asked Mrs. West would it help to have the same recording equipment in the Conference Room. Mrs. West stated that the current recording equipment used in the closed sessions works fairly well and the tapes of the closed sessions are not retained for a long period of time. Mr. Wyatt added that there would be better sound through the use of the microphones that drop from the ceiling. Commissioner Baucom stated that the two advantages of installing the sound capabilities in both rooms, would be better sound and the use of an additional meeting room. Commissioner Openshaw commented that he was a little shocked at the price of the software. He said that he did not have a problem approving action minutes and making the recordings part of the official records. He asked if this would take care of the vast majority of the savings. Commissioner Openshaw questioned the cost of the Granticus software utilized by the Town of Indian Trail. Mrs. Harlow explained that five Requests for Proposals were received which included the agenda process software and the video taping. She said that there were two proposals that required the County to contract separately with Granticus. She stated that staff was looking for a turn-key system in order not to have two separate systems and not have to deal with more than one vendor. Commissioner Openshaw moved to table action on this item until such time as there can be some feedback from the towns of Indian Trail and Stallings, who now both use the software. He said that he would like to see the cost of the software in order to be able to compare it to the recommended software. Chairwoman Rogers questioned if the County chooses to purchase the Granticus software, does it also provide assistance with the agenda process. Mrs. Harlow responded that Granticus only provides the video and minutes indexing but does not offer the agenda process software. Chairwoman Rogers asked what percentage of staff’s workload is relative to the agenda. Mr. Greene responded that it was difficult to estimate the percentage on time spent on the agenda process, but his primary concern is the impact on Mrs. West for the keeping the minutes. Chairwoman Rogers said that she supported the purchase of some type of software wholeheartedly, but suggested if there could be a similar result by having another system other than the Sire Software, it would be worthwhile to consider. Commissioner Baucom offered as a friendly amendment, in addition to the motion on the floor proposed by Commissioner Openshaw, to direct the Clerk to prepare action-oriented minutes to keep it on a timely fashion since the Board would not be meeting in a regular meeting until April 19. Mr. Greene stated that he thought the motions offered are a good approach but he needed to point out that what has been recommended is through the Request for Proposals, and there is a certain formality to the process with deadlines. He suggested that staff work through these issues at staff level. Commissioner Openshaw said he was fine with the amendment by Commissioner Baucom but added that the video recordings are to be made a part of the official record. He also offered as a further amendment to the motion that when there are technical difficulties, then the minutes be prepared with more detail. Following the discussion, the motion as amended was passed unanimously.
Local Area Regional Transportation Plan:

Chairwoman Rogers introduced Bjorn Hansen, a transportation planner with Centralina Council of Governments to present the Mr. Hansen reviewed the results of the four-town Local Area Regional Transportation Plan (LARTP) (Marvin, Waxhaw, Weddington, and Wesley Chapel). He stated that one of the most important components in the study is that it identified intersections throughout the study area and identified the priority ones and suggested improvements. Further, he said that the recommended improvements were tied to the funding sources. He stated that the Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization (MUMPO) contributed $80,000 to help implement the plan and expects that the communities will submit the recommendations as a part of the overall MUMPO Comprehensive Transportation Plan process and the same consultant that prepared the plan does Comprehensive Transportation Plans throughout the state. Mr. Hansen stated that primarily the key implication for Union County is that as the Comprehensive Transportation Plan is developed, NCDOT and MUMPO will be asking for local input. He said that the presentation is for informational purposes only.
Public Works Department – Task Orders:

Task Order #8 with Black & Veatch for the Comprehensive Water and Wastewater Master Plan Ed Goscicki, Public Works Director, explained the task order. He said that during the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) work session, the major elements of the Water and Wastewater CIP were identified, which included the development of an updated Comprehensive Water and Wastewater Master Plan and the development of a high-level fiscal plan to accompany it showing how to implement the master plan. Mr. Goscicki stated that four engineering consultants submitted proposals. He said that Black & Veatch was the number one ranked firm by all members of the selection committee. He noted that this task order is a significant expenditure but because of staff’s negotiations, the cost is within the budget. He reviewed the key components included in the plan: 1) Development of an integrated water resources management plan that optimizes water supply alternatives with wastewater reuse and disposal and demand management strategies within the framework of the inter basin transfer restrictions; 2) Development of system growth projections based on planning from serving communities within the County, on the updated County-wide Land Use Plan, and on other independent economic and area-wide growth assessments; 3) Development of reliable and cost-effective water and wastewater system capacity solutions for Union County in accordance with the recently updated County-wide Land Use Plan and the development plans of the municipalities they serve; 4) Development of water and wastewater system development plans to establish the major improvements necessary for each system to meet the level of service needs and future growth; 5) Development of a comprehensive, high-level fiscal plan that evaluates and recommends funding alternatives for the implementation of the Master Plan; and 6) Development of a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the first 10 years that matches long-term capacity needs. Mr. Goscicki stated that the timeframe for the plan is compressed and is scheduled to be completed within one year. Following the presentation by Mr. Goscicki, Commissioner Openshaw moved to authorize the County Manager to approve Task Order #8 with Black and Veatch for a Comprehensive Water and Wastewater Master Plan in the amount of $870,000, subject to legal review. Following discussion, the motion was passed unanimously. b.
Task Order #50 with HDR Engineering in Connection with the Eastern Union County Water Supply Project
Mr. Goscicki, Public Works Director, stated that as part of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) reviewed with the Board, one of the next steps was to move forward with the conceptual design, permitting identification, and identification of potential partners for the new eastern water treatment plant. He explained that HDR Engineering has done most of the County’s water treatment plant's construction over the years. He said that it is staff’s intent, once the phase of conceptual design has been completed and it is ready to go to the final permitting and design phase, that separate Requests for Proposals would be sent out. He explained that Task Order #50 is being requested to continue moving forward with the project. He stated the total cost of the Task Order is $198,307 which is split between a lump sum portion of $53,415 dealing with the conceptual design and a not-to-exceed amount of $144,892 to meet to identify partners and begin the permitting requirements. Following the presentation, Commissioner Baucom moved to authorize the Manager to approve Task Order #50 with HDR in connection with the eastern Union County Water Supply project, subject to legal approval. Commissioner Baucom asked if the $144,892 included identification of potential partners and an unlimited amount of limited partners. Mr. Goscicki responded that was why this amount was a not to exceed amount, and if the process involved a very protracted and extended program of identifying partners requiring many more meetings and outreach, more dollars would need to be appropriated. Commissioner Openshaw commented that he could agree with proceeding with some portions of the task order scope but did not see proceeding with all portions. He said he raised this objection in October, and he was maintaining his position now. He suggested that potential partners should be identified first. He said that one of his concerns is that it would be logical to try and locate a water plant that would tie into the County’s master plan at the lowest possible cost, because the numbers that have been shown thus far do not include one penny for the first inch of pipe to serve anyone in Union County. He stated that until it is determined what the master plan has to say about potential use and need, it would be putting the cart before the horse by locating a plant. Mr. Goscicki responded that there is some integration that staff recognizes will need to be done. He said that in order to keep the projects moving, staff recognizes that Black and Veatch will be performing population flow projections for the service area which will feed forward to HDR. He said this will determine what the County’s needs are as discussions are taking place with partners as they are performing site evaluations of what would be the best site. Following further discussion, Commissioner Openshaw suggested that Mr. Goscicki bring recommendations to the Board and steps that would have to be done versus the speculative step portions. Mr. Goscicki responded that the speculation part would be how large the plant would need to be, which is based on what is learned from the master plan, who the partners are, and at some point in the future, there might be additional interbasin transfer. He said that he thought the process could move forward now. Chairwoman Rogers asked if it were possible to break down the task order in several more phases. She said that she did have some concern as had been expressed by Commissioner Baucom that there are six potential partners shown in the task order and asked if that limited the partners to six. Commissioner Baucom said that some of the potential partners are ready, willing, and able to come to the table, and they want to know where the County is on this matter and until the study is done and the partners are identified, he did not know how to phase the work any differently. He expressed his concern about piecemealing the process which could result in delays. He said he was in favor of moving forward with the task order. Commissioner Mills expressed appreciation for the work that Mr. Goscicki has done on this task order. He said that he thought the task order should move forward, as outlined. He stressed the importance of planning. Commissioner Openshaw addressed his concern about all the moving parts and the unknowns. Mr. Greene commented that he and Mr. Goscicki met and discussed this matter, and the tasks that are identified within the scope of work are necessary as part of bringing in the partners. He said that they have talked with potential partners, but there is nothing to talk with them about, since the location of the plant or what the permitting process will be are not known. He said these are all preliminary parts of the project. He stated that the question would be “What does the Board want to cut out of the scope of services?” Commissioner Openshaw asked how a plan could be developed for a plant when it is unknown what capacity from which to draw. He reiterated that he thought the process should move forward in a logical way and know what the master plan will find, identify who the partners will be, how much water can be taken out of the river, etc. He reiterated there are too many moving parts. Mr. Goscicki suggested that if any step could be delayed in the process, it would be the cost-estimating portion. He said that the permitting process would go hand in hand with the partnering. He stated that Commissioner Openshaw had raised a good point about the amount of water that can be withdrawn from the Yadkin River. He said that would be dependent upon what can be justified of the need and also balance against the capabilities of the eco system. He stated they had tried to keep the scope as minimal as possible. Commissioner Mills moved to call the question on the motion. The motion passed by a vote of four to one. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, Commissioner Baucom, Commissioner Mills, and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers voted against the motion. Chairwoman Rogers called for a vote on the original motion. The motion failed by a vote of two to three. Commissioners Baucom and Mills voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Openshaw voted against the motion. Chairwoman Rogers said that she thought this was an important issue, and she would like to see it on the next work session agenda. She suggested that Commissioner Openshaw send his questions to Mr. Goscicki and commented that it could possibly be
added to the work session.
Urban Forester Funding Formula:

Al Greene, County Manager, recognized Matthew Delk, Assistant County Manager, to explain the request. Mr. Delk asked that the Board direct staff to draft an interlocal agreement for distribution to the municipalities based upon the suggested approach of the County paying $30,671 of $60,671 in direct costs and the remaining $30,000 to be paid by the municipal participants based on municipal populations. The request further included authorization for the County Manager to approve interlocal agreements with the municipalities subject to legal review. Mr. Delk said that it was determined to be unfeasible to divide the costs based on services actually provided. He stated that staff is proposing premium service options. He said that staff would like to be able to negotiate with the municipalities through a premium service option. He explained that this would involve a municipality having a need that is unique to the town that would require a level of service not covered under a shared arrangement. Following Mr. Delk’s explanation, Commissioner Baucom moved that the County fund the Urban Forester position with the exception of the special service needs by the municipalities. Commissioner Openshaw said that he did not know why the ETJ areas would be excluded. He said that if the municipalities have ETJ over an area, then it should have to pay the additional costs associated with that area. Commissioner Baucom clarified that his motion was for the County to fund the position except for the special service needs, which Commissioner Openshaw said he was not in favor of. Commissioner Openshaw said that he would have made a motion to direct staff to prepare an interlocal agreement as recommended with a couple of exceptions: 1) that if municipalities have some or a single suggestion on funding the position, that those suggestions be brought to the Board; and 2) that it be written in the agreement with the urban forester that he may not give an opinion on any action that may influence County-owned property without consulting with this Board first. He said that he was delighted to see this moving forward and believes it should be funded by the municipalities, some of whom use the services a lot more than others, and he was glad to fund the County’s share of it. Chairwoman Rogers asked if the municipalities that do not sign an interlocal agreement, would receive forestry service. Richard Melton, County Extension Agent, responded that staff had discussed this possibility and with the Extension mandate, the Extension must provide some level of service to any County resident. As an example, he said if a resident of a municipality asked to have a tree check done on a particular site, they could do that, but if the municipality needs an ordinance development, that would be a whole another issue. Commissioner Mills asked if it would streamline the process for the County to fund the whole position. Chairwoman Rogers asked for a vote on the motion by Commissioner Baucom. The motion failed by a vote of two to three. Commissioner Baucom and Commissioner Mills voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Openshaw voted against the motion. Commissioner Openshaw moved to direct staff to draw up an interlocal agreement for distribution to the municipalities; authorized the County Manager to approve interlocal agreements, subject to legal review, unless there is a different criteria received back from the municipalities, and, at that point, the item will return to the Board for review. The motion further included that a provision be included in the agreement that the urban forester may not give an opinion on any action that might influence County-owned property without first consulting with the Board of Commissioners. He commented about integrating language in the agreements that any municipality that chooses not to enter into an interlocal agreement for urban forestry services should be charged for premium services. Mr. Greene requested clarification of the portion of Commissioner Openshaw’s motion regarding trees on County-owned property. Commissioner Openshaw responded that there had been a recent incident where a municipality in a conditional use hearing referenced a tract of land owned by the County where it was going to reduce the buffer, and unfortunately they quoted the forester. He said that he wanted to make sure that this did not occur again, and he thought there needed to be more understanding. Mr. Greene cited an example of the County’s asking the urban forester to look at trees at Cane Creek Park that might need to be cut for disease. He asked if this would be acceptable under Commissioner Openshaw’s motion if the County initiated the request. Commissioner Openshaw agreed that would be acceptable and said that he wanted to address when municipalities are making decisions that influence County assets. There was discussion that the estimate for the position including both direct and indirect costs is $81,000. Commissioner Baucom questioned whether the current motion was based on the $81,000 or $61,000 cost. Mr. Delk explained that the direct costs are based on salary and direct expenses to include benefits of the positions, and the indirect costs are based on estimates through the County’s indirect cost report. He said that one cost that was not included in the $61,000 figure was a vehicle. He stated the reason this cost was not included was because it is not anticipated to replace a vehicle in the near future. Following the discussion, the motion by Commissioner Openshaw passed by a vote of four to one. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, Commissioner Baucom, and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Commissioner Mills voted
against the motion.
Financial Policies:

Chairwoman Rogers recognized Kai Nelson, Finance Director, to explain the item. Commissioner Openshaw moved to table action on the item based on the information sent to him today containing Mr. Chairwoman Rogers asked if Commissioner Openshaw’s motion was to table the item until the work session. Commissioner Openshaw responded it was to table until whenever convenient. He said he was not ready to address the item right now, as he has not had an opportunity to review the information at all. Chairwoman Rogers asked if any other Commissioner wanted to review her comments. No one requested to review those The motion was passed by a vote of three to two. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Commissioners Baucom and Mills voted against the motion.
Discussion Regarding Communication:

Chairwoman Rogers explained that she had requested that this item be included on the agenda, because no single individual Commissioner can give direction to staff. She said that she wanted to have a discussion about what the County is doing about communicate with the public and to discuss ideas of how to communicate more effectively. She said that in her mind, she thought the County was doing all the right things, but she is surprised by comments in the newspaper where people do not realize that agendas are available prior to meetings and not being familiar with the County’s website. Brett Vines, Public Information Officer, said there are four major tools that he uses to disseminate information about the County: 1) County’s website; 2) the Government television channel; 3) news releases; and 4) the weekly newsletter. Chairwoman Rogers said that there is the addition of the school newsletter to distribute information about vacancies on boards and committees. Chairwoman Rogers suggested for staff to come back to the Board with some ideas, to have on the website tabs designated as “open issues” with sub tabs such as “current water expansion projects”, “capacity projects underway for sewer”; “odor control project”; the “Waxhaw Emergency Department,”; the “fire study status.” Chairwoman Rogers asked if there was consensus for her suggestion or was a motion needed. Mr. Greene suggested that the Board have a motion directing him to take care of it. Commissioner Openshaw suggested that an advertisement be placed in the newspaper announcing the fact that the agendas are available and giving directions on how to access them. Commissioner Baucom suggested that the announcement could be done by way of a news release. Chairwoman Rogers moved to direct the County Manager to work with Mr. Vines to look at ways to provide status reports to the public on the various projects such as including tabs on the website showing open or current issues with sub tabs for the various items and to bring their recommendations to the Board for consideration. Following the discussion, the motion was passed unanimously.
Consideration of Resolution to the North Carolina Turnpike Authority:

Commissioner Baucom provided the Board with the following memorandum from the Union County Farm Bureau: The Union County Farm Bureau Board of Directors representing approximately nine-thousand (9,000) member families in Union County duly assembled and voted unanimously to request that the proposed by-pass around Monroe, North Carolina be named “The Union County Parkway”. Also, the undersigned groups and organizations support this undertaking. Union County Agricultural Advisory Board Union Soil & Water Conservation Board Commissioner Baucom stated that “bypass” insinuates that one is going around something or leaving something out.” He said that the Union County Parkway by its nomenclature gives a little alliteration and a naming that it is a nice place to be rather than leaving something out. He stated that a draft resolution was not available tonight for the Board’s consideration. Commissioner Baucom moved to authorize staff to develop a resolution asking the North Carolina Turnpike Authority to use the name of “Union County Parkway” in identifying the proposed bypass for Monroe. Chairwoman Rogers offered that the bypass will be used by all the citizens of Union County, and she would like to receive input from citizens on suggested names for the bypass. Keith Merritt, County Attorney, offered a non-legal opinion that he thought that the Indian Trail Town Council had adopted a resolution several meetings ago recommending a name for the bypass along the lines of “Union County Parkway.” Vice Chairwoman Kuehler said that she at least wanted to receive buy-in from the towns through which the bypass will be Commissioner Openshaw said he liked the name “Union County Parkway” and was glad that the Farm Bureau had brought it forth; however, he said he agreed that he thought there should be buy-in from the community. Chairwoman Rogers offered an amendment to Commissioner Baucom’s motion to seek input from the municipalities regarding a name for the bypass and to place on the County’s website a method by which the County could receive input from the community on naming the bypass. Chairwoman Rogers called for a vote on the amendment as stated. The amendment passed by a vote of three to two. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the amendment. Commissioners Baucom and Mills voted against the motion. She then called for a vote on the main motion as amended and to bring the recommendations to the Board at the May 3, 2010, Commissioner Baucom asked if the motion included authorizing staff to draft a resolution to bring to the Board for consideration. Chairwoman Rogers agreed that this authorization was included in the motion if staff could prepare the draft resolution with the data received.
Designation of Two Commissioners to Communicate with CHS and CMC Regarding the Waxhaw Emergency Department:

Chairwoman Rogers recognized Commissioner Openshaw for his comments. Commissioner Openshaw moved to appoint two Commissioners to interact with CHS in connection with negotiations on the Waxhaw Emergency Department and that the Board discuss which Commissioners to appoint or whether to appoint Commissioner Openshaw and Chairwoman Rogers. Keith Merritt, County Attorney, suggested that the Board appoint whichever two Commissioners it chooses. Chairwoman Rogers stated that if the motion passes, then as a part of that motion the Board would choose which two Commissioners to appoint. Jeff Crook, Senior Staff Attorney, recommended that the Board designate the two Commissioners as liaisons instead of appointing them. Chairwoman Rogers stated that she had voted against adding this item to the agenda; therefore, she did not know if she would Commissioner Openshaw moved to designate himself and Vice Chairwoman Kuehler as liaisons to meet with representatives of CHS/CMC to discuss the Waxhaw Emergency Department. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler said that the proposal on the Waxhaw Emergency Department was reviewed and assessed by staff and experts, and it was based on their opinion that what was being proposed was not in the best interests of the County. She said that she did not possess the skills to have that conversation with the people who possess the skills to have that conversation. She stated that she did not understand why as a non-expert she would put herself in a position to negotiate. She said she would like to continue the negotiations but did not see the value of having a lay person involved. Commissioner Baucom offered a friendly amendment to the motion that the County Manager be included in the discussions along with Commissioner Openshaw and Vice Chairwoman Kuehler. Commissioner Openshaw accepted the friendly amendment to his motion. Mr. Merritt stated that he thought it should be clear that any meeting that the two Commissioner liaisons attend that any staff members who need to attend also be included in the discussions. Commissioner Openshaw said that he was interested in hearing what CHS/CMC has to say, but there is no intent for the discussions to be negotiations where the liaisons are making representations for the Board. Commissioner Mills disagreed explaining that it does need to be negotiations. He said lawyers have already been heard so Chairwoman Rogers stated that Vice Chairwoman Kuehler had been nominated to serve as one of the liaisons, and if she was not willing to do that, to let it be known. Commissioner Baucom stated that he thought it was important for two of the majority of the Board attend the meeting, and that the two Commissioners understand the ultimate objective. Chairwoman Rogers stated that she thought Vice Chairwoman Kuehler had agreed to serve as one of the Board's liaisons to communicate with CHS regarding the Waxhaw Emergency Department and repeated that the motion was to designate Commissioner Openshaw and Vice Chairwoman Kuehler and staff. The motion was passed by a vote of four to one. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, Commissioner Baucom, Commissioner Mills and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers voted
against the motion.
Announcement of Vacancies on Boards and Committees:

Chairwoman Rogers announced vacancies on the following Boards and Committees: Adult Care Home Advisory Committee (at least 4 Vacancies) Nursing Home Advisory Committee (at least 3 Vacancies) Union County Industrial Facilities and Pollution Control Financing Authority (2 Vacancies for unexpired terms and 3 vacancies for terms expiring May 2010) Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (one vacancy for a member with a physical disability) Union County Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee (at least 2 vacancies for unexpired terms)
Appointments to Boards and Committees:

Nursing Home Advisory Committee: Commissioner Baucom nominated Dorothy Fumo to serve on the Nursing Home Advisory Committee. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Suzanne Emory to serve on the Nursing Home Advisory Committee. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler asked Commissioner Baucom if he knew Ms. Fumo. He responded that he had information Chairwoman Rogers called for a vote on the nomination of Dorothy Fumo. The motion failed by a vote of two to three. Commissioners Baucom and Mills voted in favor of the motion. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Rogers voted against the motion. A vote was taken on the nomination of Suzanne Emory. The motion passed by a vote of three to two. Chairwoman Rogers, Vice Chairwoman Kuehler, and Commissioner Openshaw voted in favor of the motion. Commissioners Baucom and Mills voted against the motion. Commissioner Openshaw questioned if the Nursing Home Advisory Committee could be expanded. He stated that the County has a new nursing home that opened today, and the information in the agenda package indicates that there is one appointment for each nursing home. Mrs. West offered to find out if there are other vacancies on this committee. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated David McDonald and Susan Diane Connolly to serve on the Fire Commission. There were no other nominations, and the motion passed unanimously. c. Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Vice Chairwoman Kuehler stated that one of the vacancies on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is for a person with a physical disability, and neither of the two applications received indicate that there is a physical disability. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Brian Clark to serve on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. There were no other nominations, and the motion passed unanimously. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Michael Kraykowski and Dr. Kristine C. Diggins to serve as citizen representatives on There were no other nominations, and the motion passed unanimously. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated John Darsey and Patricia L. Freeman for reappointment as regular members on the Planning Board and Orvel R. Schrum, III to serve as an alternate member. Commissioner Baucom nominated Brian Clark to serve as the alternate. It was noted that Mr. Clark was appointed earlier in the meeting to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Chairwoman Rogers asked if Thomas Steffen had reapplied for this Board. Mrs. West responded that he had not reapplied. Chairwoman Rogers called for a vote on the nominations for regular members: John Darsey and Patricia L. Freeman. There were no other nominations for regular members, and the motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Baucom withdrew his nomination of Brian Clark as an alternate member. Chairwoman Rogers called for a vote on the nomination of Orvel R. Schrum, III, as an alternate member. There were no other nominations, and the motion was passed unanimously. Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee: Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Alicia Thomas to serve on the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee. There were no other nominations, and the motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Openshaw stated that Donnie Melton had submitted an application stating that he would serve on any board to which he was appointed. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler noted that the Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee has three vacancies. Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee: Chairwoman Rogers stated that there are three vacancies on this board. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Kathleen Domanski and Donnie Melton to serve on the Home and Community Care There were no further nominations, and the motion was passed unanimously. Juvenile Crime Prevention Council: Chairwoman Rogers announced that there is one vacancy for a Substance Abuse Professional and one vacancy for a Vice Chairwoman Kuehler nominated Robin Houston Stitt to serve as a Commissioner Appointee on the Juvenile Crime There were no further nominations, and the motion was passed unanimously. Chairwoman Rogers asked what length of time the vacancy for a member at large on this Partnership has been advertised. Mrs. West responded that this vacancy was rather recent. By consensus, the Board agreed to postpone an appointment to this board tonight. Vice Chairwoman moved to reappoint Neil Forrest, Jr. to serve as a regular member on the Board of Adjustment and to reappoint Richard M. Davis to serve as an alternate member. There were no further nominations, and the motion was passed unanimously. Manager’s Comments:


Commissioners’ Comments:

Commissioner Baucom offered congratulations to all the athletes in the County. He said that there were state champions in three events and he looked forward to those recipients being present at a future Board meeting to be recognized. He stated that March 14th thru 20th is National Agriculture Week. He said that National Agricultural Day is March 20th and invited everyone to hug their farmer today and especially on March 20th. He said that he would be remiss if he did not promote agriculture, as it generates better than 20 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product. He said that Union County ranks fourth in the state in agricultural production. Commissioner Baucom said that agriculture is America’s number one export and it creates a positive balance of trade. He stated he was proud to be a part of the agricultural segment of the economy. Commissioner Openshaw said that he was very pleased with the quantity and quality of the applicants for the boards and committees included in the agenda package tonight. He stated that he did not know if he had ever seen that number of qualified applicants at any one time presented to the Board. He offered congratulations to Monroe High School for winning the State Basketball Championship. He said it was a great story because their football team received a bad call in the state and it cost them their chance at the title. He stated that the coach handled it gracefully and in a very mature way setting a good example for the players. Commissioner Openshaw said that the same coach also coaches the basketball team, and every member on the basketball team also played football. He said it was a great exhibition of character by the coach and that team. He stated as a footnote to the football team, the referee that made the call that cost the team the game admitted his mistake. Commissioner Openshaw offered congratulations to the Union County Public Schools for being awarded one of 20 grants in the United States to start a Chinese language program. He also offered congratulations to Commissioner Baucom for winning the agriculture award for producing the highest yield of corn per acre. He thanked Commissioner Mills for the great job that he did with auction items for the Republican Convention. Commissioner Openshaw said that some comments were made tonight about some decisions that the Board made to defer action. He stated that if he did not feel comfortable with decisions, he would not rubber stamp those items. Commissioner Mills congratulated Coach Johnny Sowell and the players at Monroe High School. He said that Coach Sowell was a great football player and had played at Appalachian University while he was there. He said that his nine-year-old daughter volunteered him to drive her school bus to and from school, and he did not realize that he had to have a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). He said that he took the classes and got a good look at the Union County Public Schools’ Transportation Department. He stated that they do a great job and have an outstanding staff. He congratulated them on all of the donations that they contributed to Haiti after the earthquake. Vice Chairwoman Kuehler clarified her vote on the CHS/Kaufman Hall agenda item. She explained that she had voted against adding the item to tonight’s agenda because the Board had officially given that direction at least three times. She said that she spoke with a representative of Kaufman Hall last week and was notified that they have had contact with CHS. She stated that she did not seek the point of pushing something that was already occurring. She said that the County has been open to the lease negotiations on the record for over a year, and she wanted to put that issue to rest. Chairwoman Rogers said that her husband was following the Red Hawks in their championship. With there being no further comments or action, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Commissioner Baucom moved to adjourn the regular meeting. The motion was passed unanimously.

Source: http://www.co.union.nc.us/portals/0/centraladmin/a_m/10/min/03-15-10.pdf