June 7, 2021
A regular meeting of the Bladen County Board of Commissioners was held at 6:30 pm on
Monday, June 7, 2021. The meeting was held in the Commissioners’ Room, located on the
lower level of the Bladen County Courthouse, 106 East Broad Street, Elizabethtown.
The following members were present:
Charles R. Peterson, Chairman
Mark A. Gillespie, Vice Chairman
Ray Britt
Dr. Danny Ellis
Rodney Hester
Arthur Bullock
Michael Cogdell
Members Participating Remotely:
Dr. Ophelia Munn-Goins
Cameron McGill
Attorney: Leslie Johnson, Johnson Law Firm
ITEM 1. Reverend Warren Hill, Bethel Baptist Church, provided an invocation. County
Manager Greg Martin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ITEM 2. Consent Items:
Upon a motion by Commissioner Bullock, seconded by Commissioner Britt, the Board
unanimously approved the Consent Items. Due to Commissioners Munn-Goins and McGill
participating remotely, a roll call voice vote was taken, as required by NCGS 166A-19.24(b)(5).
A. Agenda.
B. Minutes of May 17, 2021 Special Meeting.
C. Minutes of May 17, 2021 Regular Meeting.
D. Budget Amendments through June 7, 2021, as follows: Human Resources
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104210.120 Salaries 7,000.00
104210.181 FICA 2,800.00
104210.182 Retirement 1,000.00
104210.183 Group Insurance 1,000.00
104210.185 Retiree Health Insurance 500.00
104210.610 Contract Services 600.00
106930.990 Contingency 11,700.00
Year end adjustments.
Elections
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104300.120 Salaries 400.00
104300.121 Longevity 102.00
104300.126 Part-Time 5,000.00
104300.181 FICA 400.00
104300.182 Retirement 200.00
104300.183 Group Insurance 600.00
104300.184 Retiree Life Insurance 40.00
104300.610.001 Contract Services – Poll Workers 3,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 2,462.00
Year end adjustments.
Elections
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104300.610.001 Contract Services – Poll Workers 1,755.00
106930.990 Contingency 1,755.00
Year end adjustments.
Tax Administration
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104500.120 Salaries 23,100.00
104500.121 Longevity 330.00
104500.126 Part-Time 8,000.00
104500.181 FICA 200.00
104500.182 Retirement 3,000.00
June 7, 2021
104500.183 Group Insurance 3,000.00
104500.185 Retiree Health Insurance 1,500.00
106930.990 Contingency 22,470.00
Year end adjustments.
Tax Administration
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104500.192 Professional Services Legal 200.00
104500.270 Advertising 91.56
104500.192.002 Professional Services Foreclosure 33.00
Revenues
103190.010 Miscellaneous Revenue 324.56
#0009195/Off Baltimore Rd/Emmanuel Triarsi
Register of Deeds, Building Inspections, Health, Recreation, Water Credit Cards
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104800.900.001 Register of Deeds – CC Fees 250.00
105400.900.001 Building Inspections – CC Fees 2,700.00
105900.900.001 Health – CC Fees 1,200.00
106600.900.001 Recreation – CC Fees 500.00
254702.900.001 Water – CC Fees 25,000.00
Revenues
103160.009 Register of Deeds – CC Fees 250.00
103260.013 Building Inspections – CC Fees 2,700.00
103560.015 Health – CC Fees 1,200.00
103660.014 Recreation – CC Fees 500.00
253420.010 Water – CC Fees 25,000.00
To cover credit card fees for year end.
Register of Deeds
Expenditures Increase Decrease
104800.120 Salaries 1,000.00
104800.121 Longevity 30.00
104800.181 FICA 600.00
104800.183 Group Insurance 800.00
104800.184 Retiree Life Insurance 40.00
104800.185 Retiree Health Insurance 200.00
104800.188 Other Fringe Benefits 501.00
104800.325 Postage 5.00
104800.499.003 Excise Tax 50,000.00
104800.499.009 Domestic Violence 2,000.00
104800.499.017 Child Abuse 1,200.00
Revenues
103160.010 Register of Deeds Fees 1,116.00
103160.011 ROD-Excise Tax 50,000.00
Year end adjustments.
Central Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105000.120 Salaries 500.00
105000.121 Longevity 31.00
105000.181 FICA 250.00
105000.182 Retirement 500.00
105000.183 Group Insurance 1,000.00
105000.185 Retiree Health Insurance 200.00
105000.212 Uniforms 250.00
106930.990 Contingency 2,231.00
Year end adjustments.
Motor Pool
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105010.120 Salaries 1,500.00
105010.121 Longevity 14.00
105010.125 Overtime 1,000.00
105010.126 Part-Time 1,000.00
105010.181 FICA 200.00
105010.182 Retirement 15.00
105010.183 Group Insurance 400.00
106930.990 Contingency 2,099.00
Year end adjustments.
Sheriff’s Office
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105100.738.004 US Marshal Grant 9,798.77
Revenues
103270.034 US Marshal Grant 9,798.77
New grant from US Marshall.
Animal Control
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105200.120 Salaries 1,500.00
June 7, 2021
105010.121 Longevity 33.00
105200.123 On Call Pay 4,000.00
105200.125 Overtime 2,000.00
105200.126 Part-Time 20,000.00
105200.181 FICA 1,800.00
105200.182 Retirement 400.00
105200.185 Retiree Health Insurance 100.00
106930.990 Contingency 17,833.00
Year end adjustments.
Emergency Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105300.120 Salaries 1,500.00
105300.121 Longevity 11.00
105300.125 Overtime 2,000.00
105300.181 FICA 500.00
105300.183 Group Insurance 800.00
105300.185 Retiree Health Insurance 300.00
106930.990 Contingency 2,111.00
Year end adjustments.
Emergency Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105300.739 Non Inventorable 3,570.00
106930.990 Contingency 3,570.00
Cleanup from EDA grant cancelation.
Building Inspections
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105400.120 Salaries 2,000.00
105400.121 Longevity 27.00
105400.125 Overtime 1,000.00
105400.181 FICA 1,000.00
105400.182 Retirement 700.00
105400.183 Group Insurance 600.00
105400.185 Retiree Health Insurance 300.00
106930.990 Contingency 5,627.00
105400.499.005 Homeowners Recovery 300.00
Revenues
103260.011 Homeowners Recovery 300.00
Year end adjustments.
Coroner
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105500.120 Salaries 22.00
105500.181 FICA 2.00
106930.990 Contingency 10,024.00
105500.190 Professional Services 10,000.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.120 Salaries 26,000.00
105900.121 Longevity 29.00
105900.125 Overtime 60.00
105900.126 Part-Time 26,000.00
105900.181 FICA 500.00
105900.182 Retirement 2,000.00
105900.183 Group Insurance 10,000.00
105900.184 Retiree Life Insurance 150.00
105900.185 Retiree Health Insurance 1,800.00
106930.990 Contingency 14,019.00
105900.252 Vehicle Usage 100.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5905.120 Salaries 400.00
105900.5905.121 Longevity 200.00
105900.5905.181 FICA 600.00
105900.5905.183 Group Insurance 1,000.00
105900.5905.185 Retiree Health Insurance 300.00
106930.990 Contingency 1,700.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5910.120 Salaries 1,500.00
105900.5910.121 Longevity 218.00
105900.5910.181 FICA 1,100.00
105900.5910.182 Retirement 1,000.00
June 7, 2021
105900.5910.183 Group Insurance 3,000.00
105900.5910.185 Retiree Health Insurance 750.00
106930.990 Contingency 7,568.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5920.120 Salaries 4,000.00
105900.5920.121 Longevity 14.00
105900.5920.125 Overtime 10.00
105900.5920.126 Part-Time 700.00
105900.5920.181 FICA 3,000.00
105900.5920.182 Retirement 6,000.00
105900.5920.183 Group Insurance 7,000.00
105900.5920.185 Retiree Health Insurance 5,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 24,304.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5930.120 Salaries 2,000.00
105900.5930.121 Longevity 83.00
105900.5930.125 Overtime 25.00
105900.5930.126 Part-Time 600.00
105900.5930.181 FICA 2,000.00
105900.5930.182 Retirement 2,500.00
105900.5930.183 Group Insurance 4,000.00
105900.5930.185 Retiree Health Insurance 2,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 11,958.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5940.120 Salaries 5,000.00
105900.5940.181 FICA 200.00
105900.5940.182 Retirement 500.00
105900.5940.183 Group Insurance 300.00
105900.5940.185 Retiree Health Insurance 300.00
106930.990 Contingency 6,000.00
105900.5940.321 Telephone 300.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5950.120 Salaries 4,000.00
105900.5950.121 Longevity 61.00
105900.5950.125 Overtime 40.00
105900.5950.126 Part-Time 50.00
105900.5950.181 FICA 2,000.00
105900.5950.182 Retirement 3,000.00
105900.5950.183 Group Insurance 4,500.00
105900.5950.185 Retiree Health Insurance 2,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 15,471.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5951.121 Longevity 14.00
105900.5951.125 Overtime 6,000.00
105900.5951.181 FICA 1,000.00
105900.5951.182 Retirement 60.00
105900.5951.183 Group Insurance 400.00
105900.5951.321 Telephone 200.00
105900.5951.321.002 Phone CC4C 400.00
106930.990 Contingency 6,754.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5960.120 Salaries 35,000.00
105900.5960.181 FICA 2,600.00
105900.5960.182 Retirement 3,500.00
105900.5960.183 Group Insurance 7,300.00
105900.5960.185 Retiree Health Insurance 2,400.00
106930.990 Contingency 50,800.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5986.120 Salaries 30.00
105900.5986.125 Overtime 10.00
June 7, 2021
105900.5986.126 Part-Time 15,100.00
105900.5986.181 FICA 1,300.00
105900.5986.182 Retirement 15.00
105900.5986.185 Retiree Health Insurance 2.00
105900.5986.126.001 PT COVID 1,575.00
105900.5986.200 Supplies 1,000.00
Revenues
103190.006 CARES-County Reimbursed 19,032.00
Year end adjustments.
Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105900.5988.120 Salaries 45,000.00
105900.5988.121 Longevity 295.00
105900.5988.125 Overtime 51.00
105900.5988.126 Part-Time 9,500.00
105900.5988.181 FICA 4,000.00
105900.5988.182 Retirement 4,000.00
105900.5988.183 Group Insurance 10,000.00
105900.5988.185 Retiree Health Insurance 3,000.00
105900.5988.321 Telephone 1,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 74,154.00
Year end adjustments.
Mental Health
Expenditures Increase Decrease
105990.696 Mental Health – ABC 3,200.00
Revenues
103510.030 ABC 5 cent Bottle Tax 3,200.00
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.120 Salaries 3,000.00
106200.121 Longevity 95.00
106200.122 Bonus 311.00
106200.181 FICA 400.00
106200.183 Group Insurance 1,500.00
106200.185 Retiree Health Insurance 200.00
106930.990 Contingency 5,506.00
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6205.120 Salaries 2,700.00
106200.6205.121 Longevity 52.00
106200.6205.122 Bonus 944.00
106200.6205.181 FICA 300.00
106200.6205.182 Retirement 200.00
106200.6205.183 Group Insurance 1,100.00
106200.6205.185 Retiree Health Insurance 200.00
106930.990 Contingency 3,608.00
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6210.120 Salaries 7,000.00
106200.6210.121 Longevity 343.00
106200.6210.122 Bonus 1,873.00
106200.6210.126 Part-Time 2,120.00
106200.6210.181 FICA 400.00
106200.6210.182 Retirement 400.00
106200.6210.183 Group Insurance 4,000.00
106200.6210.184 Retiree Life Insurance 40.00
106200.6210.185 Retiree Health Insurance 400.00
106200.6210.321 Telephone 400.00
106200.6210.499 Miscellaneous Expense 100.00
106930.990 Contingency 11,070.00
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6220.120 Salaries 40.00
106200.6220.121 Longevity 8.00
106200.6220.122 Bonus 1,874.00
106200.6220.126 Part-Time 25,000.00
106200.6220.181 FICA 2,500.00
106200.6220.182 Retirement 110.00
106200.6220.183 Group Insurance 5,000.00
106930.990 Contingency 30,484.00
June 7, 2021
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6225.120 Salaries 10.00
106200.6225.121 Longevity 3.00
106200.6225.126 Part-Time 2,500.00
106200.6225.181 FICA 350.00
106200.6225.182 Retirement 40.00
106200.6225.183 Group Insurance 1,800.00
106930.990 Contingency 4,603.00
Year end adjustments.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6230.287 Ensure 2,113.00
Revenues
103530.024 Ensure 2,113.00
Add’l revenue for ensure.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6230.499 Sr Center Misc Expense 100.00
Revenues
103530.016 Operation Fan Heat Relief 100.00
Box fans for seniors.
Division on Aging
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106200.6230.499 Sr Center Misc Expense 1,451.95
Revenues
103530.017 Sr Center Donations 500.00
103530.019 In Home Cost Share 175.00
103530.028 DOA N/SC Program Income 643.95
103530.030 DOA N/SC Donations 8.00
103530.049 DOA Nutrition Reimbursement 125.00
Add’l revenue for Sr Center Misc.
Parks and Recreation
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106600.740 Capital Outlay-Equipment 1,000.00
106600.350 M/R Building & Grounds 1,274.00
Revenues
103660.009 Recreation Donations 274.00
Cover cost of equipment.
Library
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106700.120 Salaries 8,000.00
106700.121 Longevity 73.00
106700.181 FICA 2,000.00
106700.182 Retirement 1,500.00
106700.183 Group Insurance 2,500.00
106700.184 Retiree Life Insurance 40.00
106700.185 Retiree Health Insurance 500.00
106700.321 Telephone 1,200.00
106930.990 Contingency 13,333.00
Year end adjustments.
Education
Expenditures Increase Decrease
106910.882 BOE-Sales Tax 42,313.00
Revenues
103110.050 Article 40 Sales Tax 14,387.00
103110.060 Article 42 Sales Tax 27,926.00
Year end adjustments.
Special Revenue-Truck Driving Project
Expenditures Increase Decrease
118000.197.001 GoldenLEAF-Truck Driving 800,000.00
Revenues
113472.003 GoldenLEAF-Truck Driving 800,000.00
Year end adjustments.
Department of Social Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
146100.706 LIEAP 10,259.13
Revenues
143531.033 LIEAP 10,259.13
Funding Authorization #8 - One time LIEAP supplement.
June 7, 2021
Department of Social Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
146100.6160.499.081 Safe Sleep Supplies 1,500.00
Revenues
143190.032 Safe Sleep Supplies 1,500.00
Safe Sleep program donation.
Department of Social Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
146100.6160.555 Client Repay 361.00
Revenues
143591.010 DSS Client Ref/Medicaid 361.00
Repayment of SA Client refund.
Department of Social Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
146100.6160.575 Foster Care State 50,000.00
146100.6160.580 IV-E Foster Care 50,000.00
Revenues
143531.330 Foster Care State 25,000.00
143531.331 IV-E Foster Care 42,000.00
143531.280 SSBG 8,000.00
143531.280 SSBG 25,000.00
To budget excess spending in State Foster Care and underspending in IV-E Foster Care.
Department of Social Services
Expenditures Increase Decrease
146100.6160.650.002 Child Abuse Awareness 145.00
Revenues
143190.028 Child Abuse Awareness 145.00
Donations for Child Abuse Awareness.
Special Revenue-American Rescue Plan
Expenditures Increase Decrease
187300.850 American Rescue Plan 3,177,932.50
Revenues
183422.003 American Rescue Plan 3,177,932.50
First allocation of the American Rescue Plan.
Water
Expenditures Increase Decrease
254702.192 Professional Services Legal 10,000.00
Revenues
253190.050 Fund Balance Appropriation 10,000.00
Legal services for GenX issues.
Water
Expenditures Increase Decrease
254702.200.007 Supplies 2,596.18
Revenues
253190.010 Miscellaneous Revenue 2,596.18
Fire Hydrant replacement and repair do to damage by wrecks.
Water
Expenditures Increase Decrease
254702.350 M/R-Building & Grounds 15,824.60
Revenues
253190.010 Miscellaneous Revenue 15,824.60
Sold water meters.
Water
Expenditures Increase Decrease
254702.739 Non Inventorable 14,693.75
Revenues
253190.050 Fund Balance Appropriation 14,693.75
Emergency leak 5-9-21 US 701 Hwy N past Turnbull Creek due to lightning strike on 5-7-21.
EMS
Expenditures Increase Decrease
325302.120 Salaries 42,500.00
325302.121 Longevity 20.00
325302.125 Overtime 12,100.00
325302.126 Part-Time 147,000.00
325302.181 FICA 11,600.00
325302.182 Retirement 5,500.00
325302.183 Group Insurance 22,000.00
325302.184 Retiree Life Insurance 35.00
325302.185 Retiree Health Insurance 2,000.00
325302.190.001 Health Dept 150.00
325302.203 Medical Supplies 592.00
325302.492 Bad Debt 630,000.00
Revenues
June 7, 2021
323280.011 Billing Revenue 829,457.00
Year end adjustments.
EMS
Expenditures Increase Decrease
325302.212 Uniforms 500.00
Revenues
323190.010 Miscellaneous Revenue 500.00
Donation to cover t-shirts for staff.
E. County Attorney Invoices.
Date Department Amount
5/06/2021 Health and Human Services 825.00
5/12/2021 Governing Board 300.00
5/13/2021 Health and Human Services 1,500.00
5/24/2021 Water District 850.00
6/01/2021 June 2021 Retainer 300.00
Total $ 3,775.00
F. Public Hearing for 6:30pm on Monday, June 21, 2021 to Receive Comments
Regarding Bladen County Zoning Ordinance to Incorporate North Carolina
General Statute 160D Updates.
G. Memorandum of Agreement between the State of North Carolina and Local
Governments on Proceeds Relating to the Settlement of Opioid Litigation
and the following Resolution Approving the Memorandum of Agreement
Relating to the Settlement of Opioid Litigation:
H. East Arcadia Volunteer Fire Department Funding Agreement and Automatic
Aid Agreement.
I. Hickory Grove Volunteer Fire Department Funding Agreement and
Automatic Aid Agreement.
J. Kelly-Rowan Volunteer Fire Department Funding Agreement and Automatic
Aid Agreement.
K. Lisbon Volunteer Fire Department Funding Agreement and Automatic Aid
Agreement.
L. Town of White Lake Volunteer Fire Department Funding Agreement and
Automatic Aid Agreement.
M. Authorize Finance Officer to Receive American Rescue Plan Act Funding
and the Chairman to Execute any Necessary Agreements on Behalf of the
Board of Commissioners.
N. Bid in the Amount of $4,330 for County-Owned Property (PIN No. 1322-00-
79-6162) Located at 299 Bohica Drive. By accepting the bid, the upset bid
process was initiated.
O. FY 2021-2022 NCACC Risk Management Pools Liability & Property, and
Worker’s Compensation Insurance Renewal Package.
P. Contract to Audit FY 2020-2021 Accounts and Letter of Understanding with
Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams and Company, PA.
Q. The following Elder Abuse Awareness Proclamation:
R. Fireworks Display for Saturday, July 3, 2021 at Bay Tree Lakes Pursuant to
NCGS 14-413.
S. NC Tier II Grant (T2-2021) Award in the Amount of $10,000 to Assist in
Funding a Hazardous Material Exercise.
T. NC Tier II Grant (T2-2021) Award in the Amount of $1,000 to Assist in
Funding a Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) Project.
U. Home and Community Care Block Grant for Older Adults, FY 2021-2022
County Funding Plan.
June 7, 2021
ITEM 3. Public Hearings:
A. Chairman Peterson declared open a Public Hearing to receive comments
regarding the Proposed FY 2021-2022 Budget.
Chairman Peterson recognized Emergency Services Director Nathan Dowless
to address the Board. Mr. Dowless asked that the Board consider funding a
diesel truck in the amount of $48,500. He stated that the truck that he
normally drives is used in multiple departments to tow trailers. Following
brief discussion, Mr. Dowless expressed appreciation.
Chairman Peterson recognized Bladen Community College Board of Trustees
Chairman Dennis Troy, BCC President Amanda Lee, and Chief Finance
Officer Jay Stanley to address the Board. Dr. Lee expressed appreciation for
the Board’s financial support and provided an update related to ongoing
programs and newly developed programs. Chairman Troy expressed
appreciation for ongoing financial support as well.
No one else addressed the Board.
Chairman Peterson declared closed the Public Hearing regarding the Proposed
FY 2021-2022 Budget.
B. Chairman Peterson declared open a Public Hearing regarding a Proposed FY
2021-2022 Economic Development Budget.
No one addressed the Board.
Chairman Peterson declared closed the Public Hearing to receive comments
regarding the Proposed FY 2021-2022 Economic Development Budget.
C. Chairman Peterson declared open a Public Hearing to receive comments
regarding a Rezoning request (PIN No. 0382-12-86-5403) for property located
at the intersection of NC 41 West and NC 87. The request is to rezone the
Residential/Agricultural property to Commercial for development purposes.
Planning Director Greg Elkins provided a brief overview of the property and
the rezoning request process. Mr. Elkins stated that the Bladen County
Planning Board had favorably received Mr. Riddle’s request at its May 18,
2021 meeting, and made a recommendation to the Board of County
Commissioners in support of Mr. Riddle’s request. He then introduced
rezoning applicant Mr. Joe Riddle and Attorney Lonnie Player to provide
additional information.
Mr. Player stated that traffic travelling past the property, by NC Department
of Transportation estimates, is approximately 10,000-20,000 vehicles daily.
The initial intent of the rezoning request was to build a convenience store or
gas station on the property. However, Mr. Player stated that the site could
also be considered for a grocery store or other type of commercial business.
He also stated that buffering using fences, landscaping hedges would be
installed so as not to adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood.
Mr. Riddle reiterated points made by Mr. Player, and also shared that he
intended on purchasing the property. He said that he would hold on to the
property until a plan could be further developed.
Chairman Peterson recognized Mr. Lynn King, Mr. Alan Brisson, and Mr.
William McNeill to address the Board. They each spoke against the rezoning
application, citing light pollution, noise pollution, and potential safety hazards
related to increased traffic.
Mr. Brisson also submitted a petition with approximately 170 signatures of
individuals who also did not support the rezoning application. Mr. Brisson
read aloud the Petition for information.
ITEM 4. Special Recognition:
A. Chairman Peterson and the entire Board recognized Division on Aging
Director Kelly Robeson, Department of Social Services Director Vickie
Smith, and Health Director Dr. Terri Duncan to receive an Elder Abuse
Awareness Month Proclamation. Chairman Peterson read aloud the
Proclamation. Mrs. Smith encouraged everyone in attendance to display
purple on their front porches in support of Elder Abuse Awareness Month.
June 7, 2021
ITEM 5. Individuals/Delegations Wishing to Address Commissioners:
No one in attendance addressed the Board.
ITEM 6. Matters of Interest to Commissioners:
Chairman Peterson recognized Commissioner McGill to address the Board. Commissioner
McGill extended his regrets for needing to depart the meeting shortly.
Chairman Peterson recognized Commissioner Munn-Goins to address the Board. Commissioner
Munn-Goins extended her regrets as well for needing to depart the meeting as well.
Prior to departing, Commissioner McGill expressed concern for the Bay Tree Lakes area and
sewer system issues. He encouraged the Board to assist the residents with options since the
Department of Environmental Quality has prohibited Bay Tree Lakes Waste Water Treatment
Plant (WWTP) from discharging waste water in excess of its permitted allowance of 20,000
gallons per day (GPD). Audits performed by NCDEQ have indicated that more than the
permitted GPD has been consistent since January 2020. Commissioner McGill asked that some
assistance, guidance, or advice be provided to those residents being affected by this action.
Chairman Peterson excused Commissioners Munn-Goins and McGill from the meeting at
7:20pm.
Chairman Peterson recognized Commissioner Bullock to address the Board. Commissioner
Bullock asked that the Board consider adopting a Proclamation in support of House Bill 921,
Tier I Community Reinvestment. Mr. Martin indicated that a Proclamation would be developed
for Board consideration.
Commissioner Bullock also stated that someone had shared information that Robeson County
Schools were going to provide a $1,000 COVID Relief Funds to all teachers employed by
Robeson County. He asked if Mr. Martin would contact the Bladen County Superintendent to
see if the Board of Education might be able to do something similar.
Chairman Peterson read a prepared statement regarding Closed Sessions and the requirement to
cite a specific purpose in accordance with North Carolina General Statute regarding Closed
Session. Commissioner Bullock provided copies of the Bladen County Board of
Commissioners’ Rules of Procedure to the Board related to his request to have a Closed Session
added to the May 17, 2021 agenda regarding general personnel information. Chairman Peterson
stated that the Board follows North Carolina General Statutes regarding specific reasons and
policy to enter closed session, and that “general personnel policy” discussion is not allowed
under NCGS 143-318.11.
Commissioner Cogdell inquired regarding his request to include an overview of Closed Session
process and procedure. Chairman Peterson stated that the topic was included on the Agenda for
additional discussion (Item 13A).
ITEM 7. Dublin Fire District:
A. Dublin Fire District Board of Directors Chairman Gene Lockamy and Dublin
Fire Department Board of Directors Chairman Jason Britt provided an
overview of a fire tax rate increase to 0.098 cents per $100 valuation. This
represents a 3.3 cent increase. Mr. Lockamy stated that the increase would
assist in funding two (2) part-time firefighters to provide coverage Monday
through Friday. He further indicated that a decrease in volunteerism has
affected the ability to provide coverage. Mr. Lockamy informed the Board
that the Town of Dublin and the Fire District Advisory Committee have both
supported the requested increase.
ITEM 8. Emergency Services: (Nathan Dowless, Director)
A. Mr. Dowless provided an update regarding a project to provide alternate
power at East Bladen and West Bladen High Schools. He stated that a grant
June 7, 2021
award in the amount of $317,000 had been approved in 2016 to provide
funding to install a transfer switch at East Bladen High School, and a
generator at West Bladen High School. He stated that following discussions
with Bladen County Schools Maintenance Director Rusty Worley, the grant
award would not be able to provide the needed equipment to power the high
schools during an adverse weather event.
Mr. Dowless submitted, and was denied, a revised request in the amount of
$1.2 million to provide a generator and transfer switch at each school. He
stated that the specified generators could power the entire bottom floor of each
school.
Mr. Dowless stated that FEMA did not support the revision. He stated that at
the first opportunity, a funding request would be submitted for what is
actually needed to provide power to East Bladen and West Bladen High
Schools.
The Board expressed appreciation.
ITEM 9. Advisory Board Appointments for Consideration During June 21, 2021
Meeting:
A. Ammon Fire Service District Committee (2)
B. Animal Control Board (4)
C. Bladen Community College Board of Trustees (2)
D. Division on Aging (1)
E. Eastpointe (1)
F. Hickory Grove Fire Service District Committee (3)
G. Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (16)
H. Jury Commission (1)
I. Keep Bladen Beautiful (5)
J. Kelly Fire Service District Committee (2)
K. Library Board (1)
L. Local Emergency Planning Committee (7)
M. Lumber River Workforce Development Board (2)
N. Planning Board (3)
O. Recreation Committee (4)
P. Southeastern Community Action Partnership (1)
Q. Tar Heel Fire Service District Committee (3)
R. Tobermory Fire Service District Committee (1)
S. White Lake Fire Service District Committee (3)
T. White Oak Fire Service District Committee (3)
ITEM 10. Advisory Board Appointments for Consideration During July 12, 2021
Meeting:
A. Adult Care Home Advisory Board (2)
B. Bladenboro Planning Board (ETJ) (2)
ITEM 11. County Manager: (Greg Martin)
A. Mr. Martin reviewed calendars for the months of June and July 2021. During
calendar review and upon a motion by Commissioner Cogdell, seconded by
Commissioner Ellis, the Board unanimously scheduled a preliminary meeting
at 6:00pm on Monday, June 14, 2021with Fountainworks. Fountainworks
supplied a Zoom meeting link in order to discuss a comprehensive strategic
plan. A roll call voice vote was taken.
A Special Meeting regarding FY 2021-2022 Budget was also scheduled
during calendar review. Upon a motion by Commissioner Cogdell, seconded
by Commissioner Bullock, the Board unanimously scheduled a Special
Meeting regarding FY 2021-2022 Budget for 5:00pm on Monday, June 21,
2021. A roll call voice vote was taken.
June 7, 2021
B. Mr. Martin reviewed information regarding a Broadband survey. He
reminded those in attendance that Lumber River Council of Governments has
taken the lead on the project and is gathering broadband access information
across the region.
C. Mr. Martin provided an overview of a Tar Heel School construction project
and the need to provide a deed to Bladen County Schools for the property on
which the project will be constructed. Mr. Martin reminded the Board that a
Deed of Trust was executed for the Qualified School Construction Bond
(QSCB) program for the property which is currently deeded to the County of
Bladen. The QSCB loan can not be paid early in order to convey the property
to Bladen County Schools.
Mr. Martin presented for consideration the following:
Upon a motion by Commissioner Britt, seconded by Commissioner
Bullock, the Board unanimously approved a Release Deed for Bank of
America in order to release part of the property for the QSCB
program. A roll call voice vote was taken.
Upon a motion by Commissioner Britt, seconded by Commissioner
Bullock, the Board unanimously approved a Deed conveying the 12
acres of property (NC 87 road frontage portion) to the Bladen County
Schools, a requirement for the $15.0 million 3-1 construction grant. A
roll call voice vote was taken.
Upon a motion by Commissioner Britt, seconded by Commissioner
Bullock, the Board unanimously approved a Lease with Bladen
County Schools for the rear 12 acres of property. A roll call voice
vote was taken.
D. Mr. Martin provided an overview of a Declaration of Official Intent to
Reimburse regarding a K-8 school construction project to be located in Tar
Heel. He stated that by approving the Declaration, funds already expended
can be reimbursed with loan funds. The loan has not yet been closed. Upon a
motion by Commissioner Britt, seconded by Commissioner Bullock, the
Board unanimously approved the following Declaration of Official Intent to
Reimburse. A roll call voice vote was taken.
ITEM 12. Individuals/Delegations Wishing to Address Commissioners:
No one in attendance addressed the Board.
ITEM 13. Matters of Interest to Commissioners:
Chairman Peterson asked Mr. Martin to lead discussion regarding Closed Session procedure.
Commissioner Cogdell had asked the item be included on the agenda for discussion. Mr. Martin
shared a handout of NCGS 143-3189.11 and stated that the Board of Commissioners follows this
statute for Closed Sessions and general discussion regarding personnel is not an allowed purpose
for Closed Session.
Mr. Martin reminded the Board that during a February 2021 Board of County Commissioners’
meeting, Commissioner Cogdell requested that all Board members be notified regarding the
specific purpose for a scheduled Closed Session. However, since his request was made, no
Closed Sessions has been scheduled.
Mr. Cogdell stated that he contacted County Attorney Leslie Johnson to ask if the Board could
be made aware of the specific topic and background information prior to entering a Closed
Session. Mr. Johnson had expressed that general information regarding a scheduled Closed
Session could be shared, but specific information should be shared only in Closed Session.
June 7, 2021
Chairman Peterson recognized Commissioner Ellis to address the Board. Commissioner Ellis
expressed his view regarding Closed Session topics. He stated that a general overview of the
topic would be sufficient prior to entering Closed Session, with specifics discussed with the full
Board during the Closed Session.
Chairman Peterson recognized Commissioner Hester to address the Board. Commissioner
Hester inquired regarding Planning Board meetings when a rezoning issue is addressed. Mr.
Martin provided an overview of Planning Board procedure regarding rezoning requests and
special use permit applications. He stated that the Planning Board holds Special Use Permit
Public Hearings and make its ruling based on documentation and specific criteria. However, for
Rezoning applications, the Planning Board meets to discuss a Rezoning request, and, based on
specific criteria, makes a favorable or unfavorable recommendation to the Board of
Commissioners. Once the recommendation is submitted to the Board of Commissioners, a
Public Hearing is scheduled to allow for public comment prior to a decision.
Upon a motion by Commissioner Gillespie, seconded by Commissioner Britt, the Board
unanimously adjourned at 7:56pm. A roll call voice vote was taken.
ATTEST:
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Maria C. Edwards, NCCCC Charles R. Peterson, Chairman
Clerk to the Board Bladen County Board of Commissioners
Top Related