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TRANSCRIPT
January 7, 2015
The Martin County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Wednesday, January 7,
2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room, Martin County Governmental Center at 305 East Main
Street, Williamston, North Carolina.
ASSEMBLY
Chairman Ronnie Smith, Vice Chairman Elmo “Butch” Lilley, Commissioner Tommy Bowen,
Commissioner Dempsey Bond, Jr., Commissioner Joe R. Ayers, County Manager David Bone,
County Attorney J. Melvin Bowen, Clerk to the Board Marion B. Thompson, and Finance
Officer /Deputy Clerk Cindy Ange.
Chairman Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Bond led the pledge of
allegiance. Commissioner Lilley offered the invocation.
Chairman Smith welcomed all and recognized elected officials, Sheriff Dan Gibbs, Town of
Parmele Commissioners Peggy Wilson and Doris Jackson, and Martin County Board of
Education Board Member Moses Matthews and Superintendent Ron Melchiorre. Ms. Carolyn
Harrell, Southern Albemarle Association Executive Vice President for Martin County was also
in attendance.
AGENDA APPROVAL
Chairman Smith requested the inclusion of the following item under New Business:
Resolution Supporting the Nomination of Loretta Lynch to be the Next Attorney General
of the United States
Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to approve the agenda as amended. Commissioner
Bond SECONDED the motion. The motion was unanimously APPROVED.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Ms. Bernadette Rodgers, of 14493 US Hwy 64, Williamston, NC, stated that the Board of
Commissioners had not fulfilled a commitment made 14 years ago to extend a one-fourth mile
sewer line to Smiling Face Daycare Center located on Hwy 64, a short distance outside of
Williamston. Ms. Rodgers, owner of Smiling Face Daycare Center, added that one hundred forty
(140) households represented at the Center contribute approximately $.5 million dollars to the
Martin County economy.
Mr. John Rogers, of 4437 Bear Grass Rd, Williamston, NC, stated the current fund balance in
the bank for Martin Community College to be $1,139,272.39. It appeared Mr. Rogers was
inquiring about what he considered an excessive fund balance in the bank “collecting interest”.
CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Bond made the MOTION to approve the Consent Agenda as presented, with a
SECOND by Commissioner Bowen. The motion was unanimously APPROVED.
1. Minutes for December 1, 2014 Regular Session
2. Financial Report for November 2014 included for informational purposes.
3. Finance Office – Request to Dispose of Old Records
The Martin County Finance Office requested approval to dispose of the following items:
2008-2009 Cash receipt files, original and duplicate copies - state requires
retention for three years.
2008-2009 Green copies of purchase orders, duplicated.
2008-2009 Building Inspector permits copies; originals kept in another office.
2008-2009 Paid invoice file, original invoices and duplicate copies of checks - state
requires retention for three years.
2008-2009 Centura bank statements and cancelled checks - state requires retention for
three years.
2008-2009 Centura payroll bank statements and cancelled checks; original
corresponding reports kept on file in the Finance Office.
2011-2012 Computer generated printouts (Supporting documents will be retained for
five years)
2008-2009 Landfill billing statements, payments, daily ticket report and financial
report.
2009-2010 Budget Amendments
2008-2009 Gasoline reports
2008-2009 Welfare Drafts
2008-2009 Capital Trust Statements
2008-2009 Sales Tax
2008-2009 Journal Entries
2008-2009 Retirement & SS Backup Reports
2008-2009 Transit Invoices
2008-2009 Return Check copies
4. Tax Refund Request Parcel #06-00293
Ms. Jocelyn Long (Dorothy Mizelle Heirs estate) requested a refund for trash pick-up for
year 2013. Ms. Long submitted a letter which stated no one has lived there for years.
Documentation from Tarboro Electric stated there has been no activity at that location
since July 3, 1996. The refund amount would be $162.00.
5. Tax Relief Orders for November and December 2014 in the amount of $ 2,227.23.
Year
Levy Lname Fname Reason Value Total
2014 Ballard Tamara Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Brown Franklin Clay Etals Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2013 Dickerson Tony H Error in Landfill Fee 162.00
2014 Dickerson Tony H Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Hardison Garland Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Mizelle Dorothy Heirs Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Moore Bennie A-Septic Tank Svc Error in Landfill Fee 344.00
2014 Everett Tyrone L. Etals Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Gurganus David D Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Powell Clarence Heirs Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
2014 Rodgers Oliver D Sold Vehicle 1,276 11.23
2013 Warren Peggy Bryant Error in Landfill Fee 162.00
2014 Warren Peggy Bryant Error in Landfill Fee 172.00
Total 2,227.23
6. Tax Collector’s Report – November and December 2014
November November December December
Real (20) $1,182,679.85 $3,726,772.49 $2,791,934.00 $6,518,706.49
Personal (25) 23,400.53 617,085.94 2,999,106.80 3,616,192.74
Total $1,206,080.38 $4,343,858.43 $5,791,040.80 $10,134,899.23
MV (30) 2,336.11 65,264.49 2,021.35 67,285.84
Total MV $2,336.11 $65,264.49 $2,021.35 $67,285.84
All Total $1,208,416.49 $4,409,122.92 $5,793,062.15 $10,202,185.07
7. Commissioner Representative Board Appointments
At the December 1st meeting, Commissioner Ayers consented to serve as the
Commissioner Representative on the Airport Commission Board and the Martin-Tyrrell-
Washington District Board of Health.
Commissioner Bond, a Governor’s appointee on the Martin Community College, stated
he would render his resignation, effective immediately, for that appointment and
consented to become the County Commissioner Representative on the MCC Board of
Trustees.
Chairman Smith, Alternate Commissioner Representative on the Mid-East Commission
Board, consented to become the Mid-East Commission Commissioner Representative.
Commissioner Ayers consented to become the Alternate Mid-East Commission
Commissioner Representative. Commissioner Ayers, also, consented to remain on the
Water District Advisory Board.
Neither General Statutes nor the Board’s adopted Rules of Procedures call for an action
by the Board on Commissioner Representative appointments. However, historically, the
Board has followed the same practice as it has for the citizen boards / commission
appointments for Commissioner Representative appointments.
In an effort to be consistent, the December 1st Commissioner Representative
appointments were added to the Consent Agenda for the Board’s approval. The various
known boards on which the Commissioners serve are listed below:
Ronnie Smith East Carolina Behavioral Health
Ronnie Smith NCACC Risk Management Board
Ronnie Smith NCACC General Government Steering Committee Chair
Ronnie Smith Rural Planning Organization (RPO) TAC-Alt
Ronnie Smith Mid-East Commission
Elmo “Butch” Lilley Martin County Council on Aging
Elmo “Butch” Lilley Economic Development Corporation
Elmo “Butch” Lilley H & C Care Blk. Grant Advisory Committee
Elmo “Butch” Lilley Tourism Development Board
Tommy Bowen Animal Control Board
Tommy Bowen Human Relations Council
Tommy Bowen Transportation Advisory Board
Tommy Bowen Women Council
Tommy Bowen MGH System Board of Trustees
Tommy Bowen Social Services Board
Tommy Bowen MCRWASA-Alt
Tommy Bowen Martin Co. Chamber of Commerce Appointee
Tommy Bowen Martin Enterprise Appointee
Dempsey Bond, Jr. ABC Board
Dempsey Bond, Jr. BMR Jail Commission
Dempsey Bond, Jr. Rural Planning Organization (RPO) TAC
Dempsey Bond, Jr. Animal Control Board-Alt
Dempsey Bond, Jr. Martin Community College
Joe R. Ayers Airport Commission
Joe R. Ayers MTW District Board of Health
Joe R. Ayers Mid-East Commission-Alt
Joe R. Ayers Water District Advisory Board
8. Revised Meeting Schedule
After the 2015 Meeting Schedule was approved and adopted at the December 1st meeting,
it was discovered that the 2nd
Wednesday of November 2015 falls on November 11th
,
Veterans Day.
Chairman Smith recommended that the November 11, 2015 meeting be moved one week
earlier to November the 4th
. The meeting schedule below has been adjusted to reflect the
revision.
MARTIN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Revised 2015 Meeting Schedule
Date Backup Needed
Date of Meeting Time Type Meeting Due by 12:00 Noon
**1/7/2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting December 31, 2014
February 11, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting February 4, 2015
March 11, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting March 4, 2015
March 18, 2015 7p.m. Departmental Budget Presentations
March 19, 2015 7p.m. Departmental Budget Presentations (if needed)
April 8, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting April 1, 2015
April 15, 2015 7p.m. Agency Budget Presentations/Budget Workshop
To Be Announced Joint Budget Meeting with Board of Education
May 13, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting May 6, 2015
To Be Announced Budget Workshop (s) (After Receipt of Bd of Ed Budget)
June 10, 2015 7p.m. Budget Public Hearing
June 10, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting June 3, 2015
June 10, 2015 7p.m. Adopt Budget
June 24, 2015 7p.m. Year End Budget Ordinance Amendments '14-'15 If Needed
July 8, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting July 1, 2015
August 12, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting August 5, 2015
September 9, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting September 2, 2015
October 14, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting October 7, 2015
November 11, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting November 4, 2015
****11/4/2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting October 28, 2015
December 9, 2015 7p.m. Regular Meeting December 7, 2015
*** 2015 NCACC Legislative Goals Conference January 15-16, 2014 in Pinehurst, NC
****2nd Wednesday, November 11, 2015 is Veterans Day
9. Revised Joint Resolution Supporting the Placement of a Stoplight & School Signal
Sign for Riverside Middle School
At the December 1st meeting, the Board of Commissioners approved the adoption of a
joint resolution of support for a stoplight and school signals at Riverside Middle School
that had been created by the Board of Education. At the time the County was contacted, a
joint resolution was to be between the Board of Education and Martin County, as was
shown on the draft resolution given to the Board on December 1st.
County Manager Bone stated at the December 1st meeting the Town of Williamston had
been contacted to become a supporter as well. It was not clear as to whether the Town
would adopt a separate resolution of support or join the resolution along with the Board
of Education and Martin County. All boards were scheduled to meet at different times on
December 1, 2014.
The joint resolution of support was approved and adopted by the Board of Education,
Martin County and the Town of Williamston. Small revisions have been made to the
document for accuracy of information, as well as the addition of the Town of
Williamston as a participating party.
The fully executed joint resolution below has been distributed to NCDOT, State
legislative officials, and others, soliciting their support in this matter.
Joint Resolution Supporting the Placement
of a
Stoplight and School Signal Signs
for
Riverside Middle School
WHEREAS, the Riverside Middle School was built on Highway 17 South of Williamston in
2011; and
WHEREAS, the Martin County Board of Education requested a traffic light and a speed
reduction signal sign from 55mph to 45mph during take in and let out times prior to reopening of the
school; and
WHEREAS, the Martin County Board of Education has consolidated Jamesville Middle
School into Riverside Middle School bringing seventy-nine more students to the school; and
WHEREAS, a convenience store was built next to the school property the year after
reopening of the school, bringing additional traffic to the school’s intersection; and
WHEREAS, NCDOT is responsible for the main transportation arteries of the highway
system.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Education, the
Martin County Board of Commissioners, and the Town of Williamston
Board of Commissioners requests that a stoplight be placed at the intersection of Spencer Drive and
Highway 17 entrance.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Education, the Martin
County Board of Commissioners, and the Town of Williamston Board of Commissioners requests
speed reduction signal signs before Ralph Taylor Lane coming from south to north and one speed
reduction signal sign prior to the Highway 64/13 overpass going north to south.
Adopted this 1st day of December, 2014.
_________________________ ___________________________
Ronnie Smith, Chairman Marion Thompson, Clerk to the Board
Martin County Board of County Martin County Board of County
Commissioners Commissioners
_________________________ ___________________________
Van Heath, Chairman Ron Melchiorre, Secretary Martin County Board of Education Martin County Board of Education
_________________________ ____________________________
Tommy Roberson, Mayor Glinda Fox, Town Clerk
Town of Williamston Town of Williamston Board of
Commissioners
10. Resolution Opposing the Proposed Changes to the Rule Defining “Waters of the
U. S.
In support of the National Association of Counties efforts in urging the Federal government to
withdraw and clarify its proposal concerning the rule defining U. S. Waters, the Board of
Commissioners adopted the resolution below.
RESOLUTION
OPPOSING THE PROPOSED CHANGES
TO THE RULE DEFINING “WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES”
WHEREAS, agriculture is an absolutely necessary sector of our economy and the source of our
daily nourishment; and
WHEREAS, the Clean water act defines and regulates waters that fall under federal jurisdiction,
which are known as the “Waters of the United States”; and
WHEREAS, The Environmental Protection Agency with the Army Corps of Engineers proposed
changes to the rule defining Waters of the United States, that could significantly increase the cost
and regulatory requirements for local governments and ultimately, the cost for residents, farms,
and businesses; and
WHEREAS, the proposed rule would expand the definition of water to include dry stream beds,
ephemeral waters, depressions, and many other landscape features, even those that may only be
wet after a rain; and
WHEREAS, the proposed rule affects man-made features such as ponds and ditches where water
does not have to be present continuously for the land to be designated as water and regulated by
these new and onerous rules; and
WHEREAS, the Waters of the United States Rule declares portions of farmers’ property to be
water and regulates it under the federal Clean Water Act and defines water far beyond what is
currently required under federal law, and
WHEREAS, the proposed rule has no prescribed limits to federal jurisdiction and does not
clearly define what waters are to be regulated by the federal government; and
WHEREAS, these regulations will place burdensome new regulations on farmers and industries;
and
WHEREAS, farmers will incur considerable expense to obtain permits to conduct farming
activities in these newly defined areas as water; and
WHEREAS, the proposed changes do not include the provision of federal funds to offset the
additional cost to local governments and thus, would divert resources from other essential public
services; and
WHEREAS, the United States Congress has written a letter to the EPA and Corps requesting that
the proposed changes to the Rule be withdrawn until further analysis can be completed; and
WHEREAS, the National Association of Counties has produced a policy brief on this issue and
has encouraged local governments to publicly make comments concerning the proposed changes
to the rule; and
WHEREAS, United States Representative Steve Southerland (R-FL) introduced House Rule
5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act of 2014 on July 11,
2014; and
WHEREAS, The United States House of Representative passed House Rule 5078 on September
9, 2014 and it has been placed on the Senate’s calendar.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Martin County opposes legislation or changes
that would further expand federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Commissioners strongly
opposes the proposed change to the Rule defining the “Waters of the United States”, and call
upon our Congressional delegation to oppose its implementation and support of House Rule
HR5078. In addition, we call upon our fellow commissioners, home builders, economic
developers, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory and North Carolina Secretary of Commerce
Sharon Decker to exercise all authority invested in them to protect our citizens from the
devastating results of this rule. Martin County Board of Commissioners agrees that any changes
to the Rule should include the following revisions, which are sincere concerns for local
governments and their residents:
Separate municipal storm sewers will continue to be regulated and permitted under
Section 402 of the Clean Water Act and will not be considered Waters of the United
States; and
Water delivery, reuse, and reclamation systems and facilities will not be considered
Waters of the United States; and
Ditches, streams, and other drainage features will not be considered Waters of the
United States; and
Wastewater treatment systems and all associated infrastructures will not be
considered Waters of the United States; and
Any proposal to regulate waters within a floodplain, riparian, or any other general
area must include a specific definition, include the specific boundaries of the
floodplain, riparian, or other area subject to the Rule; and
The Rule must include sufficient clarity and specificity to better inform regulators and
permittees, and to minimize the potential for litigation.
Adopted this 7th
day of January, 2015.
___________________________
Ronnie Smith, Chairman
___________________________
Marion B. Thompson, NCCCC
Clerk to the Board
11. Resolution of Opposition of Ruling on “Same Sex Marriage”
The following resolution was included on the Consent Agenda for adoption by the Board of
Commissioners:
RESOLUTION
OF OPPOSITION OF RULING ON "SAME-SEX MARRIAGE"
WHEREAS, in May 2012, the voters of North Carolina voted victoriously to amend the North Carolina
Constitution protecting marriage; and
WHEREAS, prior to the rulings by Judge Cogburn and Judge Osteen, the word "marriage" meant only a
legal union between one (1) man and one (1) woman as husband and wife, and the word "spouse" referred
only to a person of the opposite sex who is a husband or wife; and
WHEREAS, on Friday, October 10, 2014, United States District Court Judge Max Cogburn ruled that
Article XIV, Section 6 of the North Carolina Constitution (Amendment One), North Carolina General
Statute § 51-1, which defines marriage as being between a man and a woman, § 51-1.2, which prohibits
recognition of same-sex marriage in other states, and all sources of state law that prohibit same-sex
marriage or its recognition, are unconstitutional under the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of
the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution; and
WHEREAS, on Tuesday, October 14, 2014, United States District Court Judge William Osteen ruled that
Article XIV, Section 6 of the North Carolina Constitution (Amendment One), North Carolina General
Statutes § 51-1 and 51-2 are unconstitutional under the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the
14th Amendment to the United States Constitution; and
WHEREAS, this ruling will have a negative impact on our churches, businesses, charity organizations,
government offices, society and our educational system.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Commissioners strongly
opposes the ruling that Article XIV, Section 6 of the North Carolina Constitution (Amendment One),
North Carolina General Statute § 51-1, which defines marriage as being between a man and a woman, §
51-1.2, which prohibits recognition of same-sex marriage in other states, and all sources of state law that
prohibit same-sex marriage or its recognition are unconstitutional under the Due Process and Equal
Protection Clauses of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Commissioners strongly request that
this ruling be reviewed and reconsidered to protect the foundation on which America was established; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Martin County Board of Commissioners strongly urges everyone
in opposition of this decision to let their voices be heard, and encourages everyone to recognize
"Marriage between one (I) man and one (1) woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or
recognized in this state. This section does not prohibit a private party from entering into contracts with
another private party; nor does this section prohibit courts from adjudicating the rights of private parties
pursuant to such contracts”.
Adopted this 7th day of January, 2015.
_________________________
Ronnie Smith, Chairman
_________________________
Marion B. Thompson, NCCCC
Clerk to the Board
12. The Clerk Report is included each month for informational purposes.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEE (S)
County Manager David Bone introduced Dept. of Aging Health and Wellness Coordinator
Madison Webb. Assistant Register of Deeds Kimberly Griffin presented Deputy Register of
Deeds Heather Barber. Child Support Supervisor Pamela Evans introduced Social Worker
Shanta Wilkins. Deputy Transit Director Frank Halsey presented Drivers Christina Painter and
Linda Peele. Water District Manager Ed Warren introduced Water Technician Robert Peaks. The
Board of Commissioners welcomed all to the Martin County workforce family.
PRESENTATION (S)
2013-14 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)/ Audit Report
The independent certified public accounting firm of Carr Riggs & Ingram, LLC (CRI) completed
the 2013-14 Audit of Martin County in accordance with NC General Statute 159-34 and
governmental auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. The purpose of this
audit was to render an opinion concerning the County’s compliance with:
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and
Other regulatory items such as budgets, grants and debt covenants.
The Independent Audit Report is part of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)
for the County. The CAFR was produced under the direction of Martin County Finance Officer,
Cindy Ange.
Mr. Chris Burton, of Carr Riggs & Ingram, rendered a clean audit opinion, stating nothing
materially wrong was found. Minor areas where documentation needed to be better defined were
noted.
Financial Highlights
The assets of Martin County exceeded its liabilities and deferred inflows of resources at
the close of the fiscal year by $19,492,205 (net position)
As of the close of the current fiscal year, Martin County’s General Fund reported an
ending fund balance of $9,283,290, an increase of $1,653,771, in comparison with the
prior year.
At the end of the fiscal year, unassigned fund balance for the General Fund was
$5,507,145, or 20 percent of total General Fund expenditures for the fiscal year.
Charts from the 2013-14 CAFR / Audit Report containing the general fund revenue by sources,
changes in ad valorem taxes revenue, growth in sales tax revenue, general fund expenditures by
function and the fund balance calculation are listed below:
Martin County
Revenue by Source
General Fund
6/30/2014 6/30/2013
Ad valorem taxes 48.72% 14,251,585 48.72% 12,741,568 46.00%
Local option sales taxes 13.20% 3,862,305 13.20% 3,733,134 13.48%
Other taxes 1.36% 396,934 1.36% 361,311 1.30%
Intergovernmental 26.63% 7,790,795 26.63% 7,657,865 27.65%
Licenses and fees 0.95% 276,844 0.95% 254,958 0.92%
Sales and services 8.59% 2,511,749 8.59% 2,748,049 9.92%
Investment earnings 0.05% 13,444 0.05% 7,570 0.03%
Miscellaneous 0.52% 150,936 0.52% 195,489 0.71%
29,254,592 100.00% 27,699,944 100.00%
Martin County
Percentage of Change in Ad Valorem Taxes Revenue
Year Ended 06-30-14
1998 9,502,460 -0.41% 0.770
1999 9,597,881 1.00% 0.770
2000 10,098,011 5.21% 0.770
2001 10,185,450 0.87% 0.770
2002 11,668,521 14.56% 0.770
2003 12,203,732 4.59% 0.785
2004 12,188,052 -0.13% 0.785
2005 12,316,564 1.05% 0.785
2006 12,451,545 1.10% 0.785
2007 12,086,146 -2.93% 0.785
2008 11,668,642 -3.45% 0.785
2009 13,142,729 12.63% 0.785
2010 12,260,051 -6.72% 0.67
2011 12,232,872 -0.22% 0.67
2012 12,740,224 4.15% 0.67
2013 12,741,568 0.01% 0.67
2014 14,251,585 11.85% 0.72
Martin County
Growth in Sales Tax Revenue
Year Ended 06-30-14
Sales Tax % of
Year Revenue Growth
1998 3,447,411 2.75%
1999 3,625,310 5.16%
2000 3,839,887 5.92%
2001 3,797,738 -1.10%
2002 3,463,500 -8.80%
2003* 3,859,365 11.43%
2004^ 4,761,902 23.39%
2005 4,665,609 -2.02%
2006 4,709,182 0.93%
2007 5,100,922 8.32%
2008 5,460,400 7.05%
2009** 4,860,601 -10.98%
2010 3,841,869 -20.96%
2011 3,650,972 -4.97%
2012 3,965,060 8.60%
2013 3,733,134 -5.85%
2014 3,862,305 3.46%
* First year Article 44
^ First Full year Article 44
**First Full year Article 46
Martin County
Expenditures by Function
General Fund
6/30/2014 6/30/2013
Education 8,099,295 29.16% 8,194,726 29.70%
Human Services 6,371,835 22.94% 6,521,123 23.63%
Public Safety 5,407,606 19.47% 5,116,812 18.55%
General Government 2,834,811 10.21% 2,734,454 9.91%
Environmental Protection 2,102,558 7.57% 2,029,888 7.36%
Economic & Phy. Development 1,159,990 4.18% 1,035,028 3.75%
Transportation 815,301 2.94% 959,481 3.48%
Debt Service 840,339 3.03% 840,339 3.05%
Culture and Recreation 141,627 0.51% 159,206 0.58%
27,773,362 100.00% 27,591,057 100.00%
Martin County
Fund Balance Calculation
Year Ended 06-30-14
Cash and investments, 06-30-14 6,809,288
Less:
Liabilities (596,527)
Deferred Revenues
Prepaid Taxes (71,967)
Fund Balance available for appropriation 6,140,794
2014 Actual Expenditures 27,826,858
Transfers to other funds 1,241,828
Total expenditures and transfers out 29,068,686
Available fund balance as % of
Expenditures and transfers out 21.13%
Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plains (formerly The Boys & Girls Club of Pitt County)
The Boys & Girls Club of Pitt County began in 1969 as a Boys’ Club with a very modest
operation at the Pitt County Fairgrounds. Since that time, the organization has experienced
significant growth in membership, programs, and facilities. In 1992 the Jack Minges Unit was
built to accommodate the growing need for youth services and to include girls in the
membership.
Additional units were established in Ayden in 1993, Farmville in 1995, and Uptown Greenville
in 2007. The Grady-White Boats / E.R. Lewis Family Unit was opened in 2007. The Club in
Ayden relocated in April of 2010 and was named the Dr. Ledyard E. Ross Unit. The organization
assumed responsibility for the Club in Lenoir County in 2010, two Clubs in Beaufort County in
2013, and opened a new Club in November 2013 within Greene County Intermediate School,
allowing over 1,000 young people at-risk and in-need to take advantage of the programs,
activities and services provided by Boys & Girls Clubs. As noted, the name has been changed to
the Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plains.
In July of 2014, several individuals in the community met to discuss the pursuit of locating a
Boys and Girls Club in Martin County. A second meeting was held on October 27th
. Several
county officials attended these meetings.
At its November 3, 2014 meeting, the Martin County Board of Education discussed a potential
partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plains, which operates in Pitt, Beaufort,
Lenoir and Greene Counties. At its December 1st meeting, the Board of Education agreed to
move forward with plans to co-locate Boys & Girls Club facilities at E. J. Hayes and East End
Elementary. A follow-up meeting concerning the Boys & Girls Club was held on November 24th
.
A follow-up fundraising meeting was held on December 15th
.
Mr. Roy Lilley, of Lilley and Johnson’s CPAs, PA introduced Boys and Girls Club of the
Coastal Plains staff members President and CEO, Misty Marston, Vice President of Operations
Donyell “DJ” Jones, Ward & Smith Attorney and Former Chairman Steve Stevenson, and
Director of Training & Outcome Measurement Stephanie Reynolds. Superintendent Ron
Melchiorre showed his support by attending the meeting as well.
President and CEO, Misty Marston reported the Boys & Girls Club of the Coastal Plains has 115
plus employees, serve 1,100 children daily, on a budget of $4 million.
The Youth Development Strategy at all Boys & Girls Clubs emphasizes:
A sense of competence, the feeling that there is something they can do and do well.
A sense of usefulness, the opportunity to do something of value for others.
A sense of belonging, in a setting where they feel accepted and have programs designed
just for them.
A sense of power and influence, a chance to be heard and influence decisions.
The Clubs offer members daily access to a broad range of programs:
Character and Leadership Development
Education and Career Development
Health & Life Skills
The Arts
Sports, Fitness and Recreation
The Boys & Girls Club’s “Formula For Impact” includes the following priority outcomes:
Academic success
Healthy lifestyles
Good character and citizenship
Vice President of Operations Donyell “DJ” Jones recounted being a club member in his youth
and some of the values gained. Through his earlier involvement with the Club, Mr. Jones stated
he experienced a safe environment and new opportunities, heighten expectations, support of
relationships, recognition and academic success. Now, with his involvement with the Boys and
Girls Club as an adult, Mr. Jones is giving back to this organization that gave him so much.
The following jurisdictions provide the following amounts in annual funding for the clubs
located in their jurisdiction:
Beaufort County $40,000 Town of Belhaven $6,300
City of Greenville $22,280 (CDBG/HUD Funds) Town of Grifton $2,000
City of Washington $18,000 Town of Winterville $2,500
Town of Farmville $18,000
The goal stated for the Club in Martin County would be to get 3-year commitments from various
organizations and individuals for a total annual giving amount of at least $282,000 to serve some
200 children, beginning with grades 5 and under. An active, aggressive fund raising campaign is
on-going for this project. Donations in amount of $28,000, $14,000, $7,000, $3,500, i.e. are
being solicited, although any amount would be most appreciated.
Ms. Marston reported a $20,000 match grant had been awarded on behalf of Martin County. All
Clubs would be equipped with computers and all members would receive instruction and
guidance to encourage computer literacy. The club would provide after school and year round
service.
The Board of Commissioners was asked to consider an annual contribution toward the
establishment of a Boys and Girls Club in Martin County. The Martin County Board of
Commissioners did not take any action on this issue at that time.
Martin Community Action Incorporated
Martin Community Action, Inc. (MCAI) has been experiencing some financial challenges.
Representatives of the organization were at the December 1, 2014 meeting of the Board of
Commissioners to assist the organization in its mission. At the December 1st meeting, a motion
was made to provide MCAI some funding, if Beaufort and Pitt Counties also provided funding.
That motion did not pass.
Martin Community Action, Inc. (MCAI) CEO Bernnadette Yarborough asked to make a
presentation to the Board of Commissioners at the January 7th
meeting. Presentations to the
County Commissioners in Beaufort and Pitt Counties were also planned.
On behalf of Martin Community Action, CEO Yarborough, accompanied by MCAI Board
Chairman Moses Matthews, Vice Chairman Roy Gray, and a number of employees, reported the
following data to show the impact MCAI has had collectively, as well as for Martin County
families and the economy since July 2006 and present day through the Community Services
Block Grant (CSBG):
Total all three counties, 916 participants have been served; 2,031 total family members
have been assisted; 116 active participants are in the program currently; 351 clients have
obtained full-time employment at a wage rate that increases their family income above
the OMB Poverty Guidelines; 449 additional participants have been assisted in job
searches, resumes, goal setting, job placement, and additional services which gave them
the necessary tools to obtain Self Sufficiency.
In Martin County, 212 participants total have been served; 489 total family members
have been assisted; 17 active participants are in the program currently; 81 clients have
obtain full-time employment at a wage rate that increased their total family income above
the OMB Poverty Guidelines; 114 additional participants have been assisted with job
searches, resumes, goal setting, job placement, and additional services which gave them
the necessary tools to obtain Self Sufficiency.
Of all 916 participant served, collectively, the participants average annual income was
$1,621 per family when entering the program, equating to $1,485,243 employment
dollars annually; now, collectively, participants are averaging $14,011 annually per
family, totaling $12,834,141 employment dollars annually. (Some participants have been
discharged from the program or still actively searching for employment.)
The 351 participants that were helped to gain full-time employment came on the program
with a collective employment income of $252,514 with annual family income averaging
$719. Upon leaving the program, the collective total income was $8,273,544 with the
family yearly income averaging $12,571.
69 participants have attend training; 108 participants go to school or have completed
certification courses; 22 participants have started businesses; 68 participants have obtain
standard housing; and 119 participants have receive transportation.
A total of 2027 services have been completed totaling $1,096,239.82, which consist of (49) Child
Care Assistance; (57) Clothing Assistance; (293) Educational Support / Assistance; (110)
Employment Support; (36) Food / Nutrition / Staples Assistance; (27) Gas Assistance (Natural or
Propane); (22) Housing Support; (6) Medical Assistance; (21) Mortgage Assistance; (23)
Relocation Assistance; (402) Rent Assistance; (1) Substance Abuse Prevention / Treatment;
(593)Transportation Assistance; and (387)Utility Assistance.
In Martin County, a total of 490 services have been completed totaling $261,033.15, which
consist of (14) Child Care Assistance; (11) Clothing Assistance; (41) Educational Support /
Assistance; (34) Employment Support; (9) Food / Nutrition / Staples Assistance; (16) Gas
Assistance (Natural or Propane); (7) Housing Support; (2) Medical Assistance; (6) Mortgage
Assistance; (6) Relocation Assistance; (96) Rent Assistance; (163) Transportation Assistance;
and (85) Utility Assistance.
MCAI Representatives stated several of the changes made to improved conditions at MCAI
have been: staff changes and reductions, more active Board involvement, consultant services
acquired, copier have been coded to reduce waste, fiscal policy have been rewritten, internal
control have been put in place, and Board approval required for expenses with a threshold
amount of $5,000 or more.
Commissioner Ayers inquired about the misallocation of funds as noted in the 2013-13 MCAI
audit. The response was that expenses were paid with restrictive monies due to the lack of
knowledge by inexperience staff of the limited use of restrictive funding. Qualified personnel
have been hired and procedures (checks and balances) have been put into place to eliminate this
from occurring in the future.
CEO Yarborough requested that each county contribute $100,000 toward assistance to the
program. The Martin County Board of Commissioners did not take any action concerning the
request.
Merger of NC’s Northeast Alliance with the NC East Alliance
As part of the restructuring / privatization of the NC Department of Commerce by Gov. Pat
McCrory and the NC Legislature, the state cut funding from the state’s seven (7) regional
economic development partnerships.
The regional commissions ceased to exist June 30, 2014. Many of the regional partnerships
evolved into non-profits at that time. North Carolina’s Northeast Commission began operation
as the North Carolina’s Northeast Alliance (non-profit), starting July 1, 2014.
Mr. Vann Rogerson continued to serve as President and CEO of the newly named North
Carolina’s Northeast Alliance, which has been the regional economic development
marketing organization for the following sixteen (16) counties: Beaufort, Bertie, Camden,
Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Halifax, Hertford, Hyde, Martin, Northampton, Pasquotank,
Perquimans, Tyrrell, and Washington. For 20 years, this organization had been promoting the
area for new business and assisting with business expansions, and has helped to establish a
climate for job growth and economic improvement of the entire region.
The NC East Alliance has been the regional economic development marketing organization for
northeastern North Carolina. It has historically served the following thirteen (13) counties:
Carteret, Craven, Duplin, Edgecombe, Green, Jones, Lenoir, Nash, Onslow, Pamlico, Pitt,
Wayne, and Wilson.
Mr. John Chaffee will serve as President and CEO for the new NC East Alliance. Mr. Rogerson
stated he now serves as Senior Vice President of the merged organization. A memorandum of
understanding (MOU) concerning the merger was approved on December 11, 2014. The MOU
became effective January 1, 2015, with all sixteen (16) Northeast counties participating for free
for 4 ½ years as a part of the agreement. (The NC East Alliance currently charges its members
$25,000 annually for membership.)
The two areas share a distinctive heritage, have similar industry clusters and a rural landscape
dotted with small cities, providing a synergy, that creates a stronger and more dynamic region.
The linkage between the regions’ defense/homeland security, motor vehicle assembly and parts
manufacturing, life science, aerospace, value-added agriculture, marine trades, and tourism
industries as well as shared economic goals, will result in a stronger combined organization.
Mr. Rogerson stated this merger will allow the Northeast counties to be a part of a sustained
regional marketing effort with NCNE providing funding to cover participation on behalf of NE
counties and without depending on state funding.
The new NC East Alliance will provide regional economic development services for NCNE
counties and NC East counties. NCNE counties will participate in all economic development
activities of the merged region and become active affiliates.
Mr. Rogerson reported the North Carolina’s Northeast Alliance has saved over $100,000 in the
last two years by being able to relocate its office to the Martin County Telecenter. The staff and
office will remain in this region. Currently, approximately $330,000 remains in 501(c)(6) reserve
funds for the North Carolina’s Northeast Alliance.
Mr. Rogerson added as Senior Vice- President, he would now focus on recruiting companies to
the area and eastern North Carolina will have an even larger rural voice on issues important to us
all.
OLD BUSINESS - None
NEW BUSINESS
Appointment of Register of Deeds’ Successor for the Unexpired Term
Chairman Smith stated Register of Deeds Tina Manning announced her plan to retire, effective
January 1, 2015. Her last day in the office was on December 31, 2014. Ms. Manning’s term in
office would have expired December 2016.
NC General Statute § 161-5 (a1) states:
“When a vacancy occurs from any cause in the office of register of deeds, the
board of county commissioners shall fill such vacancy by the appointment of a
successor for the unexpired term, who shall qualify and give bond as required by
law. If the register of deeds was elected as the nominee of a political party, the
board of county commissioners shall consult the county executive committee of
that political party before filling the vacancy and shall appoint the person
recommended by that committee, if the party makes a recommendation within 30
days of the occurrence of the vacancy.”
The School of Government interpreted the statute to mean that the vacancy did not occur until
Ms. Manning’s retirement (January 1st). County Commissioners must give the Democratic Party
until January 31st to provide a recommendation.
At the time of the Ms. Manning’s announcement of retiring, the Martin County Democratic Party
was not officially organized and did not have a duly-elected executive committee. The Martin
County Democratic Party has since reorganized and elected precinct representatives and an
executive committee. At its meeting on Monday, January 5, 2015, the Martin County Democratic
Party Executive Committee met and voted on a recommendation. On behalf of the Martin
County Democratic Party, Chairman Darren Whitehurst submitted a letter recommending that
the Martin County Board of Commissioners appoint Ms. Kimberly Griffin to replace Ms.
Manning as Martin County Register of Deeds. Ms. Griffin would become the 1st African
American Register of Deeds for Martin County.
Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to appoint Ms. Kimberly J. Griffin as successor to
Register of Deeds Tina Manning to fulfill her unexpired term, which would expire December
2016, with a SECOND by Commissioner Bowen. The motion was APPROVED unanimously.
Approval of the Transportation Advisory Board By-Laws & Transportation Advisory
Board Appointments
Deputy Transit Director Frank Halsey stated North Carolina refers to the network of coordinated
public transportation programs as the Community Transportation Program (CTP). These
entities, including Martin County Transit, provide public transportation to the general public and
to clients of human services agencies. To be eligible to receive Section 5311 funds, community
transportation providers must fulfill several minimum CTP requirements, one being the
establishment of a Transportation Advisory Board that is representative of various target
audiences in the service area. In addition, the providers must hold Transportation Advisory
Board meetings at least quarterly. The meetings are open to the public.
The original Operational By-laws for Martin County Transit were approved by the Board of
Commissioners in 1998. These By-laws have been updated, as has the list of participants. At
this time, the Transportation Advisory Board does not include members from Mental Health,
Martin County Community Action Head Start, Martin County Schools, or a Church Leader.
Efforts are being made to recruit from these target areas; these names will be presented for
appointment at a later time.
Commissioner Bowen made the MOTION to approve the revised Transportation Advisory Board
Bylaws and the board appointments / reappointments as presented below, with a SECOND by
Commissioner Bond. The motion was APPROVED unanimously.
MARTIN COUNTY TRANSIT ADVISORY BOARD
OPERATIONAL BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I: NAME
The name of this board shall be the Martin County Transit Advisory Board.
ARTICLE I. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Transportation Advisory Board shall perform the following duties or be responsible for the
following functions:
1. Serve as a liaison between the residents of Martin County and the county government
concerning transportation issues.
2. Serve as the advisory body to Martin County Transit which is designated as the leading
agency in the Martin County Transportation Development Plan in the operation and
funding of the Martin County Transportation System also known as Martin County
Transit.
3. Make policy recommendations to the Martin County Board of Commissioners about
transportation needs of Martin County citizens, particularly with respect to a coordinated
and cost effective approach to the delivery of transportation services to area human
service agencies and the general public.
4. Work to evaluate, stimulate and promote transportation services and programs for Martin
County residents.
5. Work to evaluate and/or develop coordinating transportation services with other human
services agencies outside Martin County.
6. Assist public, private non-profit, private and voluntary agencies in developing and/or
providing transportation services to their clients.
7. Assist in the development and update of the Martin County Development Plan.
8. Perform other functions and responsibilities as may be requested or prescribed by the
Martin County Board of Commissioners.
ARTICLE III: COMPOSITION
1. NUMBERS AND QUALIFICATIONS
The Martin County Transportation Advisory Board shall be composed of the following
representatives:
a. One voting representative from each of the following agencies/categories:
Martin County Department of Social Services (Core Agency)
Martin Enterprises (Core Agency)
Martin County Board of Commissioners or its designee
Martin-Washington-Tyrrell District Health Department (Core Agency)
Martin County Department of Aging (Core Agency)
One voting representative from the following user groups: Martin County Community
Action Head Start, Martin Community College, Martin County Schools, Martin County
Emergency Management, Mental Health consumers and transportation vendors.
NC Works Career Center
Church Leader
Business/Industry
Government
b. Member representatives should be nominated from the agencies and approved by the
county board of commissioners.
c. The representative serving on the Board from the user group should be nominated by the
agencies or groups listed in Article III above. The Board shall notify user group agencies
or groups of the vacancy and offer them the opportunity to nominate (a) representative(s).
2. TERMS AND REPLACEMENTS
Members of the Martin County Transportation Advisory Board shall serve three year terms.
Agency representatives will serve continuously or until succeeded for whatever reason
(resignation, termination, retirement, etc.)
3. VACANCIES
Vacancies on the Martin County Transportation Advisory Board shall be recommended by the
agency and approved by the Board of County Commissioners. The person appointed shall serve
any unexpired portion of the term.
4. ATTENDANCE
Any member of the Board who accumulates more than three unapproved absences in a twelve
month period shall lose his/her status as a member of the Board and shall be replaced. Absences
due to illness, death of immediate family member or other excused absence approved by the
chairperson shall be considered approved absences and shall not affect the member’s status.
Following the second absence, the member will be notified by the secretary in writing of the
attendance policy. In the case of a core agency, the agency is to be contacted as to a reason for
the absences and asked for a replacement.
ARTICLE IV: REGULAR MEETINGS
1. DATES AND LOCATIONS
a. Meetings of the Martin County Transportation Advisory Board will be determined by
the Board. The Board will establish and approve the meeting schedule for the fiscal
year. The meetings will take place on the fourth Wednesday of the second month of
each quarter. The meetings will take place at the Transit Office at 205 E. Main
Street, Williamston, N.C. The meeting time will be 12:00 noon.
b. Special meetings of the Martin County Transportation Advisory Board may be called
by the Chairperson as deemed necessary to carry out the duties of the Board.
c. Board agenda information will be provided to Board members in advance of the
meeting date.
d. Meeting dates will be established annually for the fiscal year.
2. Quorum
A majority of the Board then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business
for any meeting of the Board.
ARTICLE V: OFFICERS
1. NUMBER AND TITLE
The principle officers of Martin County Transportation Advisory Board shall be a chairperson,
vice-chairperson, and secretary.
2. ELECTION
The chairperson, vice-chairperson, and secretary shall be elected by the Transportation Advisory
Board for a term of one year at its first meeting in the fiscal year. Consecutive terms may be
served.
3. VACANIES
Any vacancy in any office elected by the Board may be filled by the Board for the unexpired
portion of the term.
4. CHAIRPERSON
The Chairperson shall preside at all meetings of the Board and shall represent the Board in
approved activities on its behalf.
5. VICE CHAIRPERSON
The Vice Chairperson shall perform the duties of the chairperson in his/her absence.
6. SECRETARY
The secretary shall record and keep a file of the minutes of all Board meetings. The secretary
will be responsible for submitting notices of all meetings to the membership of the Board. The
secretary shall notify members of the Board’s attendance policy as outlined in Article III (4)
above.
ARTICLE VII: RULES OF ORDER
At all meetings of the Board and of such committees as may be established by it, parliamentary
procedures shall be followed according to the latest edition of Roberts’ Rules of Order.
ARTICLE VIII: BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
The Martin County Board of Commissioners may direct the Transportation Advisory Board
regarding matters relating to it and may overrule or redirect actions of the Transportation
Advisory Board.
ARTICLE IX: CONFLICT OF INTEREST
In the event that there comes before the Advisory Board a matter for consideration or decision
that raises a potential conflict of interest for any Director, such Director shall disclose the
conflict of interest as soon as such Director becomes aware of it. Any Director who is aware of a
potential conflict of interest with respect to any matter coming before the Advisory Board shall
not vote in connection with that matter. These requirements shall not be construed as preventing
or discouraging any Director from disclosing relevant information with respect to any matter as
to which such Director has knowledge, or from answering questions or stating a position with
respect to any such matter.
These by-laws may be adopted, altered, or appealed by the affirmative votes of a majority of the
Board of Commissioners in office during any regular or special meetings of the Board, but only
if the notice of such meetings shall have contained a copy or an accurate summary and
explanation of the proposed by-laws amendment, alteration, or repeal as the case may be.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED BY THE MARTIN COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS:
SIGNED:__________________________________________CHAIRPERSON
DATE:____________________________________________
Transportation Advisory Board Appointments
The following individuals were appointed / reappointed by the Martin County Board of
Commissioners to serve on the Transportation Advisory Board for three year terms, which would
expire January 31, 2018:
Commissioner Representative Tommy Bowen
County Manager David Bone
Consumer Representative Carl Dixon
NC Works Career Center Representative Krista Wood
M-T-W Health Department Representative Natalie Wiggins
Town of Williamston Planner Brent Kanipe
Martin County Department of Aging Director
Businessperson Bernadette Rodgers, Smiling Faces Child Care Center
Martin County DSS Representative Veronica Taylor
Martin County DSS: Hispanic Outreach Representative Christina Villalpando
Martin Community College Representative Jeri Griffin
Martin County Emergency Management Director Jody Griffin
Martin Enterprises Representative Eric Manning
Business owner Major Hinton, Hinton’s Employment Transportation
Vocational Rehabilitation Representative Chloe Hudson.
Approve Updated Title VI Plan
Deputy Transit Director Frank Halsey stated on June 11, 2010, the Board of Commissioners
adopted the current Title VI Plan policy and procedures that Martin County has operated under
since that time.
In December 2014, the Martin County Transit administration was contacted by the NCDOT
Public Transportation Division about the need to incorporate the newest version of the Title VI
Plan in the daily operation of MCT. The template for the new Title VI policy was provided.
Deputy Transit Director Halsey stated that Martin County Transit will need to operate under the
newest version of the Title VI plan (document incorporated into these minutes by title and
reference), as per the direction of the NCDOT Public Transportation Division.
The latest changes in the new Title VI plan are listed below:
Provides greater clarity, accountability, transparency, and consistency.
Provides clarification between Environmental Justice (EJ) and Title VI.
Provides an extensive appendix with user-friendly templates and checklists to help
prepare documents that must be submitted to Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
Provides flow charts to illustrate the responsibilities of the various roles in public
transportation, such as recipient, direct recipient, designated recipient, and primary
recipient.
Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to approve the newest version of the Title VI Plan as
presented, with a SECOND by Commissioner Bond. The motion was APPROVED unanimously.
2015 Federal Legislative Goals Priorities Proposed for NC Association of County
Commissioners
Each year, the NC Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) solicits input and proposals
concerning the most important federal issues that impact North Carolina counties. The NCACC
Board of Directors was looking to select a slate of priorities that have a statewide impact to
counties. Submissions of federal legislative issues were due to the NCACC by Friday, January
16, 2015.
The NCACC Board of Directors would review the proposals at its February 4th
meeting and
choose the top issues to be its Federal Agenda for the 114th
session of Congress for 2015-
16. This list of top federal priorities will be presented to the North Carolina Congressional
delegation in Washington, D.C., when the NCACC will host the Congressional Delegation
Breakfast on Tuesday, February 24th
.
A list containing 2014 endorsed National Association of Counties and North Carolina
Association of Counties federal issues / priorities as well as additional Martin County concerns /
issues was distributed beforehand so that the Board could provide input concerning potential
federal legislative priorities for 2015, if applicable.
The Board seemed consensual that it would best to stay focus on obtaining the federal issues /
priorities already established, and to add to the list, when a priority arose.
Capitalization Threshold Increase (Fixed Assets)
The capitalization threshold is defined as a measure used to determine if an asset will be reported
on the balance sheet, which is referred to as “capitalizing the asset”. The County’s auditor, Chris
Burton with Carr, Riggs and Ingram, recommended the County increase its capitalization
threshold for capital (fixed) assets from $1,500 to $5,000. Martin County’s threshold has been
$1,500 since December 2000, when it was raised from $250 to address concerns with GASB 34
reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recently adopted a best
practice recommending that governmental units never have a capitalization threshold below
$5,000, regardless of their size.
Neighboring counties, namely Bertie and Washington, are already using a threshold of $5,000.
Martin County staff recommended increasing the capitalization threshold for all assets to $5,000.
Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to increase Martin County’s threshold for all capital
assets to $5,000, with a SECOND by Commissioner Ayers. The motion was APPROVED
unanimously.
Consulting Agreement with Segal Revenue & Expense Specialists
County Manager Bone stated Robert S. Segal, CPA PA, Segal Revenue and Expense Specialists,
Inc., established in 1995, is the only firm in NC devoted exclusively to non-personnel expense
reduction and revenue enhancement consulting performed on a contingent fee basis. Segal has
worked successfully with 75 counties (Martin County since 2005) and more than 150
municipalities to enhance sales tax refund revenue using county sales tax reallocation services.
To date, Segal has found close to $38,000 in additional revenue for Martin County.
Segal Revenue and Expense Specialists, Inc. propose to conduct a study to review NC Sales and
Use Tax Fund records and all revenue and expense files of Martin County to determine if the
County would be due any refund / additional revenues.
As stated in the proposed agreement for All Revenues and Expenses (document incorporated
into these minutes by title and reference), “Client agrees to pay Segal on each recommendation
for funds which is implemented, a fee equal to fifty (50) cents of every dollar saved, credited,
refunded or additional revenues during the 24 month period immediately following full
implementation of the recommendation. This fee will be paid quarterly following the date of full
implementation of the particular recommendation”.
As stated in the proposed agreement for NC Sales and Use Tax Funds (document incorporated
into these minutes by title and reference), “Client agrees to pay Segal a fee for this service based
upon the average annual amount of County Tax being requested by the non-profit entity under
review on their original refund claim, as follows:
Professional Services Fees
Annual refund claims requesting $500,00 or more of County tax 30%
Annual refund claims requesting $300,000 to $500,000 of County tax 35%
Annual refund claims requesting $150,000 to $300,000 of County tax 40%
Annual refund claims requesting $75,000 to $150,000 of County tax 45%
Annual refund claims requesting less than $75,000 of County tax 50%
The agreement further stated “the fee percentage will be applied to the county sales tax
distributed by the State based in the verification supplied by the NC Department of Revenue.”
Commissioner Bowen made the MOTION to approve the letters of agreement (Revenue &
Expense and Sales & Use Tax Refund) with consultant Segal Revenue & Expense Specialists as
presented, with a SECOND by Commissioner Bond. The motion was APPROVED unanimously.
Resolution Supporting the Nomination of Loretta Lynch to be the Next Attorney General
of the United States
Chairman Smith stated recently, President Barak Obama nominated Ms. Loretta Lynch for the
esteem honor to serve as the 83rd
Attorney General of the United States. Ms. Lynch is a North
Carolina native born in Greensboro, NC.
Town of Everett Commissioner Ben Jones brought it to the attention of Chairman Smith that Ms.
Lynch’s father, Rev. Lorenzo Lynch, Sr. was raised in Oak City off of NC 903. Town
Commissioner Jones is also first cousin to Ms. Lynch. As with any venture, a show of support by
your family, friends, community, as well as local elected officials is of the upmost importance.
Chairman Smith requested the drafting of a resolution of support for consideration by the Board
of Commissioner.
Commissioner Bond made the MOTION to approve the Resolution of Support for the
Nomination of Ms. Loretta Lynch to be the next Attorney General of the United States as
presented below, with a SECOND by Vice Chairman Lilley. The motion was APPROVED
unanimously.
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE NOMINATION OF
LORETTA E. LYNCH TO BE THE NEXT
ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES
WHEREAS, Ms. Loretta Elizabeth Lynch has had a distinguished career as an attorney, a partner in the
distinguished International law firm of Hogan & Hartson (later Hogan Lovells), and as a United States
Attorney; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Loretta Lynch earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Literature from
Harvard College, in addition to a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Loretta Lynch joined the staff of the Office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern
District of New York in 1990, and served with distinction becoming Chief of the Long Island office in
1994, and later, Chief of the Brooklyn office in 1998; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Loretta Lynch was nominated by President Barack Obama in 2010 to serve in her
current position as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; having previously
served the Eastern District of New York from 1999-2001 after being nominated by President William J.
Clinton; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Loretta Lynch is an experienced prosecutor with a long history of litigating political
corruption, terrorism and organized crime cases and has been praised for “substance not flash”; and
WHEREAS, President Barack Obama has nominated Ms. Loretta Lynch to serve as the 83rd
United States
Attorney General; and
WHEREAS, Being a North Carolina native born in Greensboro, NC, Ms. Loretta Lynch’s family tree
reaches deep into the soil of Eastern Carolina which includes her father, Reverend Lorenzo Lynch, Sr.
having been raised in Oak City, NC off of NC 903.
NOW, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Martin County, NC Board of Commissioners strongly supports the
nomination of Ms. Loretta Elizabeth Lynch as the next Attorney General of the United States, and urges
the members of the United States Senate to seriously weigh her professionalism and career
accomplishments, and confirm her appointment in an expeditious manner.
Adopted this 7th day of January 2015.
____________________________________
Ronnie Smith, Chairman of the Board
__________________________________
Marion B. Thompson, NCCCC
Clerk to the Board
Budget Amendment
This Budget amendment would have been for additional expenses for a 911 consolidation study.
However, at its January 5, 2015 meeting, the Washington County Board of Commissioners voted
not to participate in the study regarding the consolidation of 911 centers with Martin County.
Therefore, the budget amendment was not necessary at this time.
BOARD REPORTS / COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS – None
CLOSED SESSION – NC G. S. §143-318.11(a)(6), Personnel
Around 8:59, Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to enter Closed Session in pursuant of
NC G. S. §143-318.11(a)(6), Personnel, with a SECOND by Commissioner Bowen. The motion
was APPROVED unanimously.
Around 9:13, Commissioner Bowen made the MOTION to end Closed Session in pursuant of
NC G. S. §143-318.11(a)(6), Personnel, with a SECOND by Commissioner Bond. The motion
was APPROVED unanimously.
OPEN SESSION
In pursuant of NC G.S. 143-318.13(c) regarding closed session item discussions, Commissioner
Bowen made the MOTION to approve the newly appointed Register of Deeds’ starting salary as
$48,129 annually. The motion was SECONDED by Commissioner Bond. The motion was
APPROVED unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to discuss, Vice Chairman Lilley made the MOTION to adjourn at 9:15
p.m., with a SECOND by Commissioner Bond. The motion was unanimously APPROVED.
The next regular meeting of the Martin County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for
Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Martin County
Governmental Center, 305 East Main Street, Williamston, North Carolina.
Ronnie Smith, Chairman
______________________________
Marion B. Thompson, NCCCC
Clerk to the Board