THE ANSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS convened for their regular monthly meeting on Monday, January 9, 2006 beginning at 6:00 P.M. in Courtroom #1 located in the Anson County Courthouse.

Commissioners present: Jarvis Woodburn, ChairmanBobby Sikes, Vice ChairNeil JonesSteve LearDr. Jim SimsRoss Streater

Staff members present: Andy Lucas, County ManagerBonnie M. Huntley, CMC, Clerk to the BoardGeorge C. Bower, Jr., County Attorney Holly Berry, Finance OfficerRita James, Data ProcessingVance Gulledge, Utilities DirectorTommy Allen, SheriffMarvin Deese, Chief Building InspectorChuck Nix, EMS Supv.

Chairman Woodburn called the meeting to Order, welcoming those present. Commissioners commented on the fact that parking spaces were few but yet the courtroom was empty. Commissioner Lear commented that perhaps we should start meeting on Monday nights. Chairman Woodburn delivered the Invocation.

Approval of the Agenda by Commissioners: Commissioner Jones asked Board members to consider changing the order of the Agenda and place Appearances before Public Addresses to the Board. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion that those meeting the Appearance requirement should not have to sit and listen to those that didn’t. Commissioner Jones shared that according to the County Attorney, there is nothing in the Statutes that would prohibit this change. Board members agreed by consensus to follow this order tonight and at future meetings. Motion by Commissioner Sims to go into public hearing for item A, Rural Addressing and Road Naming Ordinance. Chairman Woodburn noted that he had not completed the review of the Agenda. Commissioner Sims withdrew his motion. Commissioner Streater added under Commissioner Concerns discussion of an illegal landfill in the Gatewood Station area. Commissioner Lear added under Commissioner Concerns discussion of roadside litter and asked to discuss this while the Sheriff was present. Commissioner Streater stated that he would like to discuss his concern with Mr. Gulledge and the Sheriff present. Commissioner Jones suggested hearing the concern of Commissioner Streater right after the Sheriff presents his annual report. Chairman Woodburn added to Commissioner Concerns discussion of voting machines and the need for a recessed meeting in order that they can make their presentation on the machine. Chairman Woodburn explained that Senate Bill 223 decertified all of voting equipment in North

Carolina as of December 1. Chairman Woodburn noted that at that point, they had two vendors with whom counties could do business but now it is down to one vendor. Chairman Woodburn noted two concerns with one being funding and the main concern is the timeframe. Chairman Woodburn voiced that the Board of Elections does have money available for whatever machines we decide to purchase. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion that the only company left to provide the machines was the one that screwed up Carteret County. Chairman Woodburn thanked the Clerk for adding the closed session General Statutes to the Agenda outline. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to approve the Agenda as presented with the changes. Motion carried unanimously.

Public Hearing: Chairman Woodburn explained that the first hearing dealt with the reorganized Rural Addressing and Road Naming Ordinance. Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to enter into the Public Hearing for this purpose. Motion carried unanimously.

In the public hearing, Connie Wilhoit, 911 Director, shared that the Road Naming and Rural Addressing Ordinances had been combined into one Ordinance. Ms. Wilhoit explained the changes as follows:

Set up the Road Naming Committee to be in place when needed when road names are changed or created. Committee consists of personnel involved in the process: 911 Addressing Coordinator and the 911 Director, Planning Director, Board of Elections, Tax Assessing and Register of Deeds.

The Committee will make recommendations to the Board of CommissionersSet the length of road signs at 42 inches because the length of sign blades (if too long) can

present problems with wind and other weather conditions thus presenting the likelihood of sign damageChanged location of numbers required at site-problems have occurred with the location of

number being placed on mailboxes when a number of mailboxes are lined up and in some cases drives leading to sites is on one road and mailboxes are located on another. For this reason all numbers are to be placed at drive leading to residence/site when not visible from the road if visible at the residential unit entrance facing the road or appropriately in yard as stated. Numbers can also be placed on the mailbox for mail purposes but not to identify the residence for emergency purposes.

All numbers must be displayed to be easily identified both day and night.Added Non Compliance and Liability SectionLeft out penalties due to having no one to enforce thisCombined both the Rural Addressing and the Road Naming into one and cleaned up the

language to provide a better understanding and set up the committee to provide different insight regarding road names.Commissioner Sims commented that he was of the understanding there was a penalty for refusing to put up the numbered signs and that it was related to taxes. Ms. Benton stated that was why they changed the liability clause because non-compliance could affect response time. Ms. Benton stated that they have no one on staff to actually go out and physically check and maintain the signs. Vice Chair Sikes referred to the section calling for road signs to be green with lettering and private signs to be blue with lettering and asked if that was a part of the Ordinance. Vice Chair Sikes asked if a private road was one named by the committee or an individual. Ms. Wilhoit answered that it was one named by an individual. Commissioner Jones asked the County Attorney if he reviewed the liability section with Mr. Bower stating a change was made to reflect there would be no liability as to the County instead of the 911 Center. Commissioner Lear asked about the request for road name changes and if there was an

appeal process when a request was denied. Ms. Benton explained that private roads would go before the committee and that public roads have to come before the Board. Ms. Benton further explained that the committee was establish to help prevent so many unusual road names and would make a recommendation for public road names to the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Lear commented that he did not see any citizen input on the committee with Ms. Benton stating that citizens from the road requesting the change would be attending the hearing. Commissioner Lear asked if the Ordinance spoke to an appeal process with Ms. Benton stating that they could always appeal to the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Sims was of the opinion there was a three-year waiting period before road names could be changed with Ms. Benton noting that was up this month. Commissioner Jones asked if there was any appeal on private roads with Ms. Benton stating that any one could appeal any board’s decision to the Commissioners. Commissioner Jones then referred to page 4, number 10 that states the Address Committee has the final say on all Private Roads. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion that this does not leave appeals to the Board as written. Ms. Benton offered that they are not anticipating problems but if any arise they can always appeal to the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Jones then asked Ms. Benton under what authority could they appeal with Ms. Benton stating that the Board could remove number 10 if they wanted. Ms. Benton feels the committee should be competent enough to work with the community and those in the neighborhoods. Commissioner Jones voiced that he felt this was a fine system but just wanted to point out that it does say that the final say so is with the committee, which means there is no appeal to the Board of Commissioners. Mr. Gulledge offered that at this time they were not making road signs with a blue background, as they have no blanks that color. Chairman Woodburn called for comments from the public. Hearing none, motion by Commissioner Sims, seconded by Commissioner Jones, to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session, motion by Commissioner Streater, seconded by Vice Chair Sikes, to adopt. Commissioner Jones asked Ms. Benton if the Ordinance would make the new Ordinance book with Ms. Benton answering yes. Motion carried unanimously.

Community Development Block Grant: Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to open the public hearing for this purpose. Motion carried unanimously.

In the public hearing, County Manager Lucas noted that the public hearing was to notify the public of the county’s intent to apply for $400,000 grant allocation from the North Carolina Department of Commerce for scattered housing. County Manager Lucas noted this could only benefit low and very low-income citizens having a clear title to their property. County Manager Lucas noted the application is due March 2006. County Manager Lucas shared that the Board is required to hold two public hearing in connection with the application and that the second hearing would be held in February. County Manager Lucas noted that the Board was also required to procure for administrative services and he would like to bring this matter before the Board at the January 18th meeting. County Manager Lucas shared that the county issued the RFP to

four individuals interested in the process and one request was received through the ad that ran in the Anson Record. Commissioner Jones asked if clear title meant without liens or that they could have fee simple title. Mary Beck was present and offered that clear title means no mortgage. Commissioner Jones was shocked at this and felt that this severely restricts applicants. Commissioner Jones felt the chances of someone in our county being broke enough to need this service not having a lien on their home was one in one hundred. Mr. Bower, County Attorney, voiced that he finds a lot of lower income type homes that may not have a Deed of Trust but often times there are title issues. Mr. Bower stated that he assumes that would have to be cleared up. Commissioner Jones remarked that this severely constricts the field that we can use this money in and that it distresses him because of those out there with a regular FHA mortgage that need this service. Chairman Woodburn then called for comments from the public. Commissioner Lear asked if this was for any specific part of the county or the county as a whole. County Manager noted it was for the entire county. Hearing no comments from the public, motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session Commissioner Streater asked Ms. Beck the income limits to qualify. Ms. Beck answered that right now $9,350 for a household would be very low and for low income it would be $12,000. Commissioner Streater asked if an older couple having more than $12,000 qualify with Ms. Beck answering yes.

Sheriff Tommy Allen – Annual Report: Sheriff Allen shared a Sheriff calendar with those present. Sheriff Allen presented his report as follows:

Chairman Woodburn; Commissioners; Madam Clerk, County Attorney; and Mr. County Manager: Thank you for this opportunity to speak this evening. The purpose of my comments are to give you and the public a general overall view of where we have come at the Sheriff’s Office and Jail operations over the past year AND the direction we plan to go as we continue to move these operations forward.I first addressed you in January 2003, having been back in office a little over a month and reported to you the many challenges we found and were faced with. I then gave you a report in January 2004 of what we had accomplished that first year. And I last addressed you in January of 2005 of how far we had come in two years. I have recently completed my third year back in office. This past year I believe we have been just as successful as the first two in our accomplishments. We now no longer have all the problems and issues we had three years ago. Actually, we’ve really come a long way over the past 36 months. The Jail Operation continues to make significant strides. Over the past three years we have passed all of our state jail inspections. We have met all required state standards required by this jail and there are only two significant comments the state jail inspectors continue to make. 1) We are dangerously overcrowded at time and 2) we need more staff. But the Jail has had a very busy year. We booked 2,119 (1,954)(1,920) inmates into and through the Jail last year. That’s an eight percent increase. We had an Average Dailey Population of 58 (54) in a Jail that has 60 beds. We have had as many as 85 inmates on occasions. Continuous over crowding creates all other kinds of problems, from food service to medical to discipline to visitation. We transported 400 + (394)(381) individuals to and from DOC and other Jails and mental health facilities. As we speak tonight I have 62 inmates in Jail. (46) Males and (2) Females. I have eight awaiting trial for Murder, eight awaiting trial on major drug felonies, and eight awaiting trial for armed robbery; six for assault with a deadly weapon; four for kidnapping and an array of various breaking and enterings, larcenies, forgery, probation violation, buy very few misdemeanors. We re-negotiated our food service contract; this time going with Anson Correctional, that provides our meals. Our Jail staff picks up meals three times daily.

* ( ) Indicates previous year(s) numbers.We continue to have a lot of court. Courtroom #2 is in operation four to five days a week and courtroom #1is used two weeks or more a month. I tell you this here because I have to use some of the jail staff to help operate the metal detectors daily when any court is in session. This past calendar year we were successful in obtaining several new grants and continuing other grants totaling over $244,000. The new grants include $98,664 non-matching funding for Mobile Data Terminals and computer related equipment; a new Governor’s Highway Safety Position and the continuation of a current position totaling $93,488; the continuation of our DSS/Non-Support position for $37,415; approximately $8,000 for overtime for drug investigations from a rollover grant; $3,500 in continuing education grants; and approximately $3,500 donations toward a new K-9. Now, usually it is along here where I kind of dazzle you with numbers of calls, arrests, civil papers, etc…. But let me streamline this by saying that our overall workload continues to increase at a rate of around 15% a year. Our total drug arrests have leveled off since last year. BUT, what we are doing is concentrating more on major drug dealers in addition to the street dealers. The detectives opened over 350 felony cases lasts year, up over 16 %. But you know what, they did not open one murder case. We have not had a murder in Anson County since July 3, 2004. We have been both a little lucky; AND we have removed many violent drug dealers from the streets who are now serving lengthy sentences. No time in recent memory has Anson County gone 18 plus months without a murder. Will this continue, I doubt it. There is only so much we can do. But if we have a murder tonight, we can still say that is the first one in over 18 months. But we are seeing more violence out there. Armed robberies have shown an increased with the propensity for violence by the perpetrators. False Burglar Alarms are down somewhat from the previous two years, primarily because of our new Alarm Ordinance that has now been in effect for the past year. We continue to build on previous instituted programs this past year such as:

Reserve Deputy Program, we now have 10 Reserve Deputies. We estimate that the reserves have saved us over $10,000 in overtime last year.

Continued our successful DARE program in the 5th grades in the county. Our Educational Incentive Program Our In-house training programs as well as taking advantaged or training through area

community colleges. Our Scout Explorer Program for high school age students. Operation Gun Lock/Child Safe where we gave away over 1200 gun locks. Sheriff’s Crime and Drug Hot Line. Our Safe Kids Halloween Program. Chaplin program and quarterly prayer breakfasts. Our K-9 program.

We have adjusted and tweaked most of these programs to make them more streamline and operational friendly.We also added a number of new programs this past year and some of these will be part of our goals from this coming year as to either to continue them or build on them:

A new Governor’s Highway Safety Program Officer. (November 1st) that we will continue under a three year grant.

Our Citizens Law Enforcement Academy. We held two classes in 2005 and our next class is scheduled to begin March 9th.

A new firing range is being planned. Fifteen acres of land was donated to the county for this, this past year, and we are now beginning to make plans to have this in operation by late spring.

We now have a Color Guard with volunteers from this office. We would like to present the colors to you at a future meeting.

Lunch with the Kids program. Each officer volunteers to take a school and visits that schools weekly, eats lunch with the kids and talks to school staff on any issues and problems.

We helped put together a new Crime Watch in Morven. And it is really the citizens who are working hard to put it together. We are there to help and advise and plan to start other Crime Watches this year.

We now have our own web page under both the county web site and independently at sheriffusa.com or sheriff@co.anson.nc.us where you can see many of our different areas of operation plus direct links to other web pages such as the FBI, SBI, BATF, Secret Service, America’s Most Wanted, Register of Sex Offenders in Anson County and several others.

We will implement and complete the mobile data terminals installation this coming year.

We will add a new K-9 to our operation in the next few weeks.

All of these new programs as well as those continuation programs have been put together at little or no cost to the county. We continue to try to streamline operations in each area of our responsibilities. I have weekly staff meetings with my Sheriff’s Office and Jail staff. And I am constantly asking them for suggestions for ways to make our operations run smoother. We continue to look at each and every thing we do to see how we can make it better.As Sheriff, I continue to be involved in many organizations, serving as a board or advisory member to over a dozen organizations that meet monthly. I try to keep involved with what’s happening in this county through other contacts and organizations. And I attend most of your meetings because I want to keep you informed both our accomplishment as well as any problems. There are at least five significant issues that should be addressed in the very near future:

1) Staffing and salaries. We must continue to grow the department to keep up with the increasing demands for service. We must pay competitive wages. We are now competing with not just the local police department but surrounding counties for qualified individuals.

2) The Jail is the biggest liability exposure this county has. The last four state jail inspections have recommended additional staff to supervise the current level of inmates. (That is admissible evidence in any lawsuit, and not in our favor.) This is an issue we must address at the next budget session as well as overcrowding concerns.

3) Court and Courthouse security is also an area that continues to concern me andshould you as well. We operate metal detectors for the courtrooms only during court days and this is a major drain on my Jail and Sheriff’s Office staff. More security is needed all the time when the courthouse is open and we need the staff to address this.

4) Deputy Staffing. We have added three new positions over the past three years. ALL THREE are a result of grants. Our workload is growing at a much faster rate. We really need to address staffing levels.

5) You allowed some line items to be set rates that, regarding some, were half of what was spent over the past few years. Others simply were set critically low. I brought this to your attention during the budget sessions but no actions were taken. These will become some areas that will have to be addressed in the next few months.

On a very positive note, we have reduced turnover from what was over 40% annually when I took office in 2002 to around 10% at this time. We replaced two deputy positions in 2005 and two jailer positions. This is absolutely remarkable but we cannot rest on our laurels because other agencies are recruiting aggressively every day. And their compensation packages continue to get better and better. We have to keep up or we immediately get behind and take a giant step backwards. Our product is SERVICE. My goal has been and will continue to be to provide the most efficient and effective SERVICE possible---to make every contact with the public by my officers to be one that exceeds

the public’s expectations. To do this I need your continued support and the support to build this organization to meet the needs of this county.Thank you for your attention and letting me share this with you.

Commissioner Sims voiced that Sheriff Allen represented Anson County well in terms of efficiency and feels he is really good in public relations. Commissioner Sims commended Sheriff Allen on his dress code, his speech and his people skills. Commissioner Sims was of the opinion Sheriff Allen was doing a great job and voiced his appreciation for all he is doing. Commissioner Sims asked Sheriff Allen for the number of prisoners that have been here over one year. Sheriff Allen answered that all his murderers have been in custody over a year noting that it’s been over a year and a half since we’ve had a murder. Commissioner Jones asked for the number of murder cases pending with Sheriff Allen answering he had eight murderers in jail and one located in another jail to make nine in all. Sheriff Allen stated that he thinks there is actually seven murder cases pending in Anson County. Sheriff Allen shared that he has four sets of brothers currently jail with two of them in for murder. Sheriff Allen noted that he has two murderers that have been in jail since before he took office. Sheriff Allen stated that they have been working with the District Attorney and in the last two months there has been a great turn around. Commissioner Jones asked Sheriff Allen if he receives interest on the K-9 fund or any others he is holding. Sheriff Allen answered that he does not as they are all assigned to the county and the general fund gets the interest. Commissioner Streater asked Sheriff Allen why it takes the District Attorney’s office so long to get a murder case to trial. Sheriff Allen noted that with the new rules a year would be an expeditious time to get one tried. Sheriff Allen feels that over the last several years there has been a little bit of miscommunication, a little dragging of feet and not being focused on Anson County. Vice Chair Sikes voiced his appreciation for the K-9 units and how effective they are with crowd control. Commissioner Lear echoed the sentiments of Commissioner Sims and agreed that Sheriff Allen represented Anson County well and thanked him for all the positive things his department does. Commissioner Lear voiced that his problem pales in comparison when talking about murderers and felons but voiced that road side litter is a problem in Anson County. Commissioner Lear stated that he wished someone could come up with a creative solution to deal with roadside litter. Commissioner Lear noted that prisoners picked up trash on a road in Lilesville and two days later it was just as trashy and the bags were still there. Commissioner Lear voiced that this reflects badly on our county. Commissioner Streater voiced a concern for a landfill in the Gatewood Station area. Commissioner Streater shared that he talked with Mr. Deese and Mr. Gulledge and that right now there is a piece of equipment on site and they may be covering the trash. Commissioner Streater voiced that neighbors in the area are complaining. Mr. Gulledge explained that this has been used as a landfill for years and to compound the problem he feels the owner of the property is not aware of what is going on. Mr. Gulledge shared that he plans to contact the owner by letter informing them of what might be going on. Mr. Gulledge did note that if the State finds out a landfill is operating on this property, they will make the entire sixty-six acres be cleaned and hauled to the landfill. Mr. Gulledge feels this will cost hundred of thousands of dollars and if the property owner backs out and gives the land to the county then the county will end up paying for the clean up of this site. Mr. Gulledge shared that he proposes to write a letter to those

that might be using this site to let them know this is an illegal site and a felony conviction if caught throwing trash in the wrong place. Mr. Gulledge shared that this is about the third or fourth time this has happened at this site. Sheriff Allen agreed to accompany Mr. Gulledge and Mr. Deese on their visit to the site with the possibility of confiscating the piece of equipment. Board members agreed to carry forth, using Mr. Gulledge’s plan. Chairman Woodburn thanked Sheriff Allen for an excellent job and encouraged other Board members to enroll in the Citizen’s Academy. Chairman Woodburn voiced that he thoroughly enjoyed the class and feels if other Board members would attend they would actually see first hand what a top notch law enforcement agency we have in Anson County even with limited resources.

Deneal Bennett – Audit Presentation: Ms. Bennett thanked the Board for giving them the opportunity to work with such a wonderful group of people. Ms. Bennett shared that on December 20 she met with the audit committee and went over the audit in great detail. Ms. Bennett then walked Board members through the table of contents in order to give them an overview of what was in the document. Ms. Bennett offered that this was an unqualified but clean audit. Ms. Bennett encouraged Board members to read the Manager’s letter, which is an overview of things that happen last Fiscal Year. Ms. Bennett shared that the compliance section was located at the back of the audit explaining that this is where they look at federal and state award programs to make sure we are in compliance. Ms. Bennett then referred to page numeral one, Exhibit 1 noting this was the overall balance sheet of the county showing assets, liabilities and net asset. Ms. Bennett shared that Page 2 was the new format of the income statement. Ms. Bennett explained that it shows expenses by department in the first column with the next three columns being revenues specific to that department or function and then it shows that almost every single department operated at a deficit because that is what our tax dollars pay for. Ms. Bennett shared that this year they had to show the Airport Construction Program as a major fund. Ms. Bennett shared that page 7 shows the original budget and the adopted budget in more detail. Ms. Bennett pointed out the third column has revenues under expenditures of $323,723.00 this year for the general fund. Ms. Bennett shared that last year that number was a negative $2,078,574.00 feeling this speaks well for management. Ms. Bennett shared in the year ending June 30, 2005 the county appropriated fund balance of $479,000 and the prior year our appropriated fund balance that was budgeted at the end of the year was $1.2 million. Ms. Bennett referred to page 9 the balance sheet for the water and waste water funds, asking the Board to remember that any of the capital project funds that are on going for the county are added in with these fund and these are not just the operational funds. Ms. Bennett shared that the water fund for June 30, 2005 had an operating income of $368,000 and the prior year it was $319,000. Ms. Bennett shared that the wastewater fund this year had an operating loss of $38,000 and the prior year there was a loss of $225,000. Ms. Bennett then called attention to the bottom of the page showing change in net assets noting it appears that we made money since there is $388,000 for the water fund and $317,000 for the wastewater but noted that above that are capital contributions which are our grants. Ms. Bennett shared that our overall collection rate was 95.01% this year compared to 95.55%. Commissioner Jones questioned page 85. Ms. Bennett shared that this page was not required but something they added in the last few years and it is

information we would need if we decided to enter the bond market. Ms. Bennett noted this was a list of our ten largest taxpayers for the 2004 levy year. Commissioner Streater voiced that the county might be losing the last two on the list. Ms. Bennett stated that this year Anson County spent $35,710,000 in federal grant money, $14,105,000 in State and required a five million-dollar match for both federal and state monies. Ms. Bennett noted that in prior years the federal awards expended was $34,200,000 with the largest part of this being Medicaid. Ms. Bennett stated that the management letter was loosely filed in the back of the audit. Ms. Bennett shared that they thoroughly enjoyed working with the employees of Anson County. Commissioner Streater felt that Ms. Berry and Ms. James had done a great job with the audit. Chairman Woodburn urged Board members to give Ms. Bennett a call if they had any questions. Chairman Woodburn thanked Holly, Rita, County Manager Lucas and all involved with the process. Chairman Woodburn offered a special thanks to Commissioner Jones and Commissioner Streater for serving on the audit committee.

Public Addresses to the Board: Chairman Woodburn asked if anyone was present to speak. No one spoke.

Consent Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Streater, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to approve. Motion carried unanimously.

Minutes: Approved minutes of regular and closed session meetings dated December 6 and 12, 2005.

Tax Releases:Vehicle Tax Releases – Jan 06:

Release # Name Year Amount Reason Bill # 16583 Anson Fertilizer 2005 52.04 Value 510-6917149 Britt, Adele 2005 156.06 Proration 510-22717150 Cleaver, William 2005 95.97 Proration 508-34216586 Cowick, Troyene 2005 25.57 Mileage 510-45017152 Hardison, Cerisyl 2005 12.80 Proration 506-79217157 Helms, Daniel Jr. 2005 42.47 Proration 505-83317155 Jones, Sharon 2005 7.50 Proration 511-88416588 Knotts, Claude 2005 37.28 Error 510-100916591 More, Adam 2005 37.78 Situs 511-115017153 Newton, Floyd 2005 4.51 Proration 508-126616587 Pate, James 2005 29.51 Error 511-121616582 Porter, Richard 2005 25.90 Error 511-126616593 Ratliffe, James 2005 6.61 Mileage 511-133016584 Sanders, Lucy 2005 19.94 Mileage 510-155916592 Turner, Brenda 2005 9.53 Value 511-164216580 Wilson, Jeremy 2005 60.28 Error 510-1927

623.75

Vehicle Tax Adjustments – Jan 0616591 Moore, Adam 2005 3.86 Situs 511-1150

3.86

Vehicle Tax Refunds - Jan 0617161 Bennett, Alexander 2005 7.95 Proration 505-11017154 Bricker, Annie 2005 16.98 Proration 508-16317159 Canipe, Kimberly 2004 63.52 Proration 410-305

17162 Carroll, Deborah 2005 60.60 Proration 506-31817156 Clark, Mary 2004 3.21 Proration 504-36117158 Edwards, Earl Sr. 2005 21.14 Proration 509-50017151 Lowery, Cryosene 2005 8.70 Proration 506-125117160 Sturdivant, Jerry 2005 14.46 Proration 508-1657

196.56

Property Tax Releases – Jan 0616606 C&C Metal 2004 829.95 Error 057-DF25316607 C&C Metal 2003 789.40 Error 057-DF25316608 C&C Metal 2002 848.98 Error 057-DF25316600 Harrington, Malvin 2005 28.40 Situs 051-685316601 Herms, William 2005 42.21 Error 054-724116589 Kelly, David Jr. 2005 32.13 Error 056-914516590 Pinkston, Randy 2005 411.08 Situs 057-1346216602 Porter, Caroline 2005 117.27 Error 051-DF25316603 Porter, Caroline 2005 129.29 Error 051-DF25316604 Porter, Caroline 2005 124.89 Error 051-DF25316605 Porter, Caroline 2005 134.31 Error 051-DF25316594 Thomas, Graham ET/AL 2005 99.54 Error 052DF-25216595 Thomas, Graham ET/AL 2005 109.74 Error 052DF-25216596 Thomas, Graham ET/AL 2005 106.00 Error 052DF-25216599 Walters, William E. 2005 99.62 Error 057-17971

3,902.81

Waste Water Treatment Plant Budget Amendment: Allocates funding for dechlorination equipment.

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2005/06

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2005/06 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:’

Section 17. WWTP Fund ExpendituresIncrease: Operations and Maintenance $ 34,000

Total Increase $ 34,000Section 18. WWTP Fund Revenue

Increase: Transfer from 29 Fund $ 34,000Total Increase $ 34,000

Section 11. Wastewater Depreciation Expansion Rsrv. Fund ExpendituresIncrease: Transfer to 62 Fund $ 34,000

Total Increase $ 34,000Section 12. Wastewater Depreciation Expansion Rsrv. Fund Revenue

Increase: Fund Balance Appropriated $ 34,000Total Increase $ 34,000

Adopted this 9th day of January, 2006.

Department of Social Services Budget Amendment: Allocates funding for DSS Crisis Intervention Program award increase (to county match).

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2005/06

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2005/06 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:

Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase 11-5310-5580 $ 4,873

Total Increase $ 4,873Section 2. General Fund Revenues;

Increase 11-5310 $ 4,873

Total Increase $ 4,873Adopted this 9th day of January, 2006.

Healthy Carolinians Budget Amendment: Allocates funding for 2006 Healthy Carolinians award (no county match)

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2005/06

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2005/06 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:

Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase: 11-5110-5182 $ 5,000

Total Increase $ 5,000Section 2. General Fund Revenue:

Increase 11-5100 $ 5,000Total Increase $ 5,000

Adopted this 9th day of January, 2006.

Health Department Budget Amendment: Allocates funding for NCIR (North Carolina Immunization Registry) award for technology improvements (no county match).

AMENDMENTAnson County Budget Ordinance FY 2005/06

BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY 2005/06 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:

Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:Increase: 11-5110-5182 $ 1,585

Total Increase $ 1,585Section 2. General Fund Revenues:

Increase: 11-5100 $ 1,565Total Increase $ 1,565

Adopted this 9th day of January, 2006.

2006 Medicare Allowable Rates for EMS: The revised rates are based on the Medicare fee schedule and the 2006 Ambulance Inflation Factor of 2.5%. Based on the revised rates, Anson EMS will increase its charge for two services. In fact, in both instances the County was charging less than the Medicare allowable rate in FY 2005.

Medicare 2006 Allowable Amounts

RuralAnson EMS 2005

Medicare Allowable

Projected 2006 Medicare Allowable

Current Rate 2005

Proposed Rate 2006

ALS NE A0426 $195.48 $215.38 $420.00 $420.00ALS E A0427 $308.31 $341.01 $420.00 $420.00

BLS NE A0428 $164.71 $179.48 $300.00 $300.00BLS E A0429 $252.44 $287.17 $300.00 $300.00ALS 2 A0433 $427.82 $493.57 $420.00 $493.57

Mileage A0425 $5.95 $6.17 $8.50 $8.50Rural Mileage 1-17 $8.93 $9.26 $8.50 $9.26

Mileage > 50 $7.44 $7.71 $8.50 $8.50

Note. These rates represent projected allowed amounts for 2006 services, based on the full Medicare Fee Schedule and the 2006 Ambulance Inflation Factor of 2.5%.

Budget Expense Report and Fund Balance Update: Approved as presented.Fund Balance Calculation: As of 1/3/2006Available Fund Balance

Cash & Investments $ 4,360,856Less Liabilities (w/out deferred revenue) $ (44,844)Less Deferred Revenue (from cash receipts) $ (177,274)Less Encumbrances $ 221,879Total Available $ 4,361,094

General Fund Expenditures:Total Expenditures (Adopted Budget) $ 24,340,512.00

Total Available for AppropriationTotal Available $ 4,361,094Total Expenditures $ 24,340,512Available Fund Balance 17.92%Available Fund Balance Requirement 8%Difference 9.92%Fund Balance Available for Appropriation $ 2,413,853

Records Retention and Disposition Schedule: Schedule is written by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources in cooperation with governing bodies, which includes official approval for records disposition action. Public records may be disposed in accordance with an official record retention schedule. The schedule provides specific instructions for the appropriate disposition and retention of various records, which are maintained for county administrative purposes. A copy of said schedule is on file in the Clerk’s office and by reference made a part of these minutes.

ACTS Federal Certifications and Assurances: The federal Section 531 certification and assurance documents are required to receive Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding administered by the NCDOT.

Administrative Matters:County Email Addresses for Commissioners: County Manager Lucas asked

the Board to consider the implementation of county designated email accounts for all Commissioners. County Manager Lucas shared that the county is currently paying for email and internet access for several commissioners and feels having an email account set up by the county would allow citizens another access to Board members and would not force members to publicize personal email accounts. County Manager Lucas explained that this would be a web-based account that could be checked through the county’s Internet site. Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Vice Chair Sikes, to approve. Commissioner Lear asked if there was any additional cost associated with this with County Manager Lucas answering it was just a matter of setting up the accounts. Commissioner Jones asked where this would be publicized with County Manager Lucas answering it would be on the county’s web site. Motion carried unanimously.

Public School Facility Needs Survey: County Manager Lucas shared that the information comes from the School Board and by signing the Board is just saying they’ve reviewed the information and approve the submission. County Manager Lucas felt it was important to note that the figures here from a cost perspective are formulas based on what is put in as state averages. County Manager Lucas shared that the School Board puts in the number and it automatically calculates the cost based on averages across the state. County Manager Lucas did note that the numbers seen in

the report aren’t those the School Board put a cost to but rather something the State has done. Commissioner Sims explained that every ten years the State requires that we give them a very complete public needs survey and that we make long range plans of our needs. Commissioner Sims stated that in doing this, we have to make sure it is very thorough and nothing is missed because over a period of ten years, we never know when bonds might come along or some other funding and if the money is passed along on a needs bases we definitely want to show needs. Commissioner Sims offered that the needs survey was applicable not only to the Commissioners but State and Federal funds, lottery or any funds that might come forth for schools. Commissioner Jones asked if by approving the Board was just saying they reviewed the information. Commissioner Sims felt the Board would be saying they reviewed the information and would not be saying we will fund any portion. County Manager Lucas stated that there was no commitment of funding tied to approving the request. Commissioner Streater asked if by approval the Board was saying they agree with the needs with Commissioner Jones feeling they would simply be saying they looked at the survey. Chairman Woodburn felt it was a strategic facility long-range plan. Commissioner Jones asked if the gym floor was included with County Manager Lucas answering that a new gym and cafeteria were included. Motion by Commissioner Streater, seconded by Commissioner Sims, that the Anson County Board of Commissioners has reviewed the survey for submission to the State School Board. Motion carried unanimously.

Gazebo: County Manager Lucas noted this item was presented to the Board in October when Chris Morton came requesting roughly $1800 for repair of the tiles on the county owned Gazebo. County Manager Lucas stated that the Board asked her to identify other sources of funding and then return for consideration by the Board. County Manager Lucas noted that at no time did the Board commit to funding. County Manager Lucas shared that Ms. Morton has found roughly half of the amount she was requesting. County Manager Lucas stated that he had asked Ms. Morton to attend tonight’s meeting. County Manager Lucas voiced that one issue is that the work has been done and he called Ms. Morton to let her know that the Board had not authorized expending money on the project. County Manager Lucas shared that Ms. Morton would be asking for roughly $890. County Manager Lucas voiced that his recommendation would be to prioritize capital request. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Streater, that we put off action on this matter until another meeting where Ms. Morton can attend. Commissioner Sims asked if this meant she had already collected from another sources one-half the money. County Manager Lucas shared that he talked with Ms. Morton and found she does have one-half the money. Motion carried unanimously.

Appointments:Centralina Council of Government Board of Governors Alternate: Chairman

Woodburn stated this was a carry over from the last meeting. Chairman Woodburn stated that he serves as our delegate to this Board. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to appoint Vice Chair Sikes as the alternate. Vice Chair Sikes declined the appointment. Commissioner Sims voiced that he was not going one mile outside Anson County. Chairman Woodburn voiced that he attends meetings if someone was concerned for having to attend. Commissioner Streater then

agreed to serve. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to appoint Commissioner Streater as the Alternate. Chairman Woodburn voiced that he feels it important that we have recognition on the various Boards and one reason why he makes every effort to attend. Commissioner Sims voiced that Chairman Woodburn does a lot of traveling and a lot of work for the county and feels he is to be commended. Motion carried unanimously.

Centralina Economic Development Commission: Chairman Woodburn explained that they were expanding membership on this Board and were looking for members from the private sector. Chairman Woodburn stated that Kevin Gullette was the delegate and he serves as the alternate. Commissioner Jones suggested Dana Maness as a possible appointee. Chairman Woodburn voiced that he would talk with Mr. Maness and see if he has any recommendation for an alternate and report back to the Board in February.

Anson County Planning/Adjustment Board: Commissioner Streater commented that these appointments were by district. Chairman Woodburn voiced that Mr. Burr, Mr. Sparger and Mrs. Bell had all agreed to serve another term. Chairman Woodburn stated that Mr. Harrington has done a good job but another surveyor has expressed an interest in serving and they are recommending Mr. Richard Morrison. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to approve the appointments of Mr. Burr, Mr. Sparger, Mrs. Bell and Mr. Morrison to the Anson County Planning/Adjustment Board. Commissioner Streater felt that the Commissioner representing each area should be the one to recommend appointment. Chairman Woodburn voiced that he was recommending Mr. Burr with Commissioner Jones recommending Mr. Sparger. Chairman Woodburn stated that Mr. Smith would have to recommend the appointment of Mrs. Bell. Commissioner Sims asked if Mr. Harrington wanted to continue serving with Chairman Woodburn answering that other surveyors have expressed an interest in serving and they want to give someone else an opportunity. Chairman Woodburn was of the opinion the motion was in order with the notation of whether or not Commissioner Smith wanted to make another recommendation. Motion by Commissioner Jones that we appoint Burr, Sparger and Morrison and also Mrs. Bell subject to Commissioner Smith approval. Motion seconded by Commissioner Sims. Motion carried unanimously.

Manager’s Report:Inter-facility EMS Transportation Services: County Manager Lucas shared

that he had done extensive research with other jurisdictions as well as EMS Management Consultants Inc. County Manager Lucas noted that our current practice of inter-facility transfers is consistent with every other jurisdiction in North Carolina. County Manager Lucas stated that the inter-facility was not really an inter-facility transfer in that the patient is actually discharged and that is how the hospital relieves themselves of the liability. County Manager Lucas noted that there are incidences where EMS does bill the hospital directly but they are infrequent and occur where we take a patient from here to Union for a specific procedure and returned to Anson. Commissioner Sims commented that this was a most unusual situation where we have

one entity that profits from certain uses of facilities or vehicles and another entity that has to worry about paying the bills. Commissioner Jones noted that when First Health of Rockingham transfers a person from Rockingham to Pinehurst they do not discharge the patient and it is treated as an internal transfer. Commissioner Jones voiced that when Wadesboro transports from Anson to Monroe this crowd has gotten smart enough that they discharge the patient from Anson so that it is a different entity. Commissioner Jones was of the opinion it was a shell game and stated that providing quality healthcare this day and time would drive you nuts. Commissioner Jones was pretty sure he was correct in saying that prior to us getting back into the business it was treated as an internal transfer and now it is treated as an external transfer. Commissioner Jones voiced that going to Monroe was still CMC but feels we can’t argue with it as they are separate corporate medical units and if they are doing this the people of Anson County are suffering.

Old Board of Education Condemnation Recommendation: County Manager Lucas voiced that condemnation was a two step procedure for public buildings. County Manager Lucas shared that it begins with a public notice on the building and a certification letter sent from the code enforcement officer requesting the property owner to make the necessary improvements or tear the existing structure down. County Manager Lucas shared that we have not started that process even though the Town has actually asked us to condemn the property. County Manager Lucas stated that upon receipt of the letter the landowner has ten days to appeal the decision and if upheld, they have sixty days to make the improvements and/or the Town of Wadesboro will remove the structure and bill the owner. County Manager Lucas stated that at this point we have not initiated the process and asked the Board to authorize the County Manager to negotiate the sale of the property. Commissioner Sims stated that he has been involved with demolition of old buildings and it was never done without some tremendous surprises. Commissioner Jones asked that in the sale we give the prospective buyer abundant information about the condition of the building so we insulate the county from future liability. County Manager Lucas stated the he would present any potential offer to the Board. Commissioner Jones feels we need to do all we can to give this property to someone else to tear down. Commissioner Sims voiced that he was not absolutely sure someone could not purchase the property and fix it up. Chairman Woodburn voiced that we’ve sold this building twice in the past and ended up refunding money and feels whatever arrangement is made to sell the property it should be clear up front that the sale is final. Commissioner Jones voiced that we should put in the ad “stick stack no trade back”. Mr. Deese voiced that we are still paying the light bill on the property in order to continue insurance. Commissioner Jones and Commissioner Sims were shocked to find we were still paying the light bill. Chairman Woodburn felt another thing that could be done would be to give the building to the fire department for practice. Mr. Bower, County Attorney, explained that this was no longer allowed due to air quality. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to authorize the County Manager and staff to sell the old Board of Education property. Motion carried unanimously.

Superior Court Judges Office Space: County Manager Lucas shared that after doing research related to our statutory obligation to provide adequate facilities for the courts, all indications were that we must provide office space, storage and parking for all Judges, Clerk of Superior Court and the clerk’s staff, District Attorneys and Magistrates. County Manager Lucas stated that this includes designated Resident Superior Court Judges assigned to Judicial District 20A, which consist of Anson and Richmond counties. County Manager Lucas shared that the Board does have discretion when you define adequate however we do have a mandate to provide just that. Commissioner Jones suggested letting the committee when they get into the facilities thing consider this among other things.

Commissioner Concerns: Chairman Woodburn noted these items had already been taken care of. County Manager Lucas noted that on January 13 th from 5-7 the Board of Elections would have the forum to review the voting machines. Commissioner Sims asked about the recessed meeting shown on the monthly calendar and asked if the Board had already talked about that. Commissioner Sims voiced that he has a doctor appointment that day. Commissioner Jones stated that this was a meeting to sit down and decide if we want direct coverage or partial coverage. Commissioner Sims voiced that he would try to make changes in his appointment if possible.

Closed Session: Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to go into closed session for property acquisition pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)(5) to establish or instruct the staff or agent concerning the negotiation of the price and terms of a contract concerning the acquisition of real property located at the Airport and for personnel pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6) to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, condition of appointment of a public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, to go out of closed session. Motion carried unanimously.

In regular session motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Lear, that we authorize the County Manager to enter into negotiations for the purchase of certain realty located on the west side of the airport tract. Motion carried 5 to 1 with Vice Chair Sikes opposed.

Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Streater, to direct the County Manager to install the tax collection incentive program that he has described this night. Motion carried unanimously.

Chairman Woodburn voiced that this ends the Agenda. Motion by Commissioner Jones, seconded by Commissioner Streater, that we stand adjourned until January 18 at 3:00 P.M. in the Pritchett Room at the Library. Commissioner Sims asked if the meeting could start earlier than 3 with County Manager Lucas noting that the panel members were told 3:00. Motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted:

Bonnie M. Huntley, CMCClerk to the Board

Meeting time: 2-hr. 25 min.