Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

of the Craven County Board of Commissioners regular session, Monday, May 18th. Call it to order. Um, Madame Clerk, would you do a roll call, please? Sir. Commissioner Mitchell here. Commissioner Smith here. Commissioner Howard here. Commissioner Hunt here. Commissioner Mason here. Vice Chairman Jones here. Chairman Booker here. Uh ladies and gentlemen, if you would please stand with me as we have prayer from Attorney Grady and then we'll do the pledge of allegiance.

Gracious God, we give you thanks for giving us another day. You have blessed us with all good gifts and with thankful hearts we express our gratitude. You have created us with opportunities to serve other people in their need, to share together in respect and affection, and to be faithful in the responsibilities we have been given. In this moment of prayer, please grant to all those who serve Pregnant County the gifts of wisdom and discernment that in their ws and actions they will do justice, love with mercy, and walk humbly with you. May all that is done this day be for your greater honor and glory. Amen.

Amen. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

If you have not already done so, please silent your cell phones so as not to interrupt the proceedings. We have several guests. I'd like to acknowledge acknowledge uh Senator Bob Brinsson in the front row. Uh welcome. We have uh several representatives from leadership craven and I would like them to stand and give their name and what organization they are affiliated with. If you would please. How you doing?

My name is Mark Morris. I'm uh from Carolina East. I work as the director of the behavior health services there. Okay. Welcome, ladies. Whoever's next. My name is Sandy. I'm Sydney Braxton. I'm a CPA at PB Mayors. Hi, I'm Katie Harrison and I work with Thank you. Welcome. Um uh commissioners, you have the agenda in front of you. Um are there any changes or additions, deletions?

No. I make a motion that we approve the agenda as written. Second motion in a second. Roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, here. Good. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, here. Commissioner Mason, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker,

yes. Um, it's always sad when we lose an employee, particularly one who's been with us for quite some time. And uh I'd like to have a moment of silence for Sergeant Margie Coun who passed away this past week. If we could all bow our heads, please. Thank you, Sheriff Hughes, if you would come and uh say a few words, please. Thank you, chairman, uh, commissioners. So, yes, this is a, uh, it's a very tough time for our county. Uh, the sheriff's office. Uh, Sergeant Coun or Nikki, as we would, uh, call her, is just, uh, one a pillar of the community has done so much for um, our justice system here as she oversaw our electronic monitoring program. Uh she took her job uh very personal. Um she affected many lives uh of those that had an addiction. Uh she took the time to work with them to give them a pathway to healthy living. Uh at times when she was off duty, make sure that they had rides to go to any type of counseling or treatment they needed. uh she helped get those that wanted to get out of the system uh onto the right path. Uh I I can't even begin to to name the the hundreds that have reached out to me about the lives she's touched where they were clearly going in the wrong direction. She gave them an opportunity uh and guidance and uh

spiritual leadership and they turned their lives around. We're going to miss her smiling face. uh walking through the hallways of the sheriff's office and the courthouse. Um just one of those things, you know, we're never promised tomorrow, but I can tell you this is a huge loss to this county and my office and uh she's going to be deeply missed. So, uh if you would just please keep her family and our office in your prayers. Thank you.

We'll do that. Thank you. Commissioners, today the consent agenda uh includes the minutes of the May 4th regular session, the tax releases and refunds and administration, juvenile crime prevention council printer purchase. Do I have a motion to approve? Motion to approve. Second. Have a motion and a second. Roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell. Yes. Yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes.

Item number two on the agenda is uh our county manager, Mr. Jack Vite, with a proposed budget presentation.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, commissioners. Good morning. Shane's going to be going to be passing out your budgets. Um, just wanted to say a couple words about Sergeant Coun. I think the sheriff touched on two things. Uh, one, always enjoyed her smile and her kindness. She was a great person. She'll be truly missed. Um, just a great great citizen of Craven County. Okay, here we go. Mr. Chairman and members of the board of commissioners, it's my privilege to present the recommended Craven County budget for fiscal year 2027. This message summarizes major financial conditions, investments, and policy choices. The budget was developed through an extended multimonth process. This budget carefully aligns the priorities and directions set by the board of commissioners while ensuring services are provided at the highest quality to the citizens of Craven County. The annual budget is the county's chief policy document and reflects the board of commissioners priorities. This year's recommended budget leverages sound conservative fiscal policy to advance the vision set by the board of commissioners. A few highlights in this year's recommendations include incorporating the new capital improvement plan to address growing capital needs, maintaining long-term financial stability with strong fund balance reserves, investing in Craven County Schools and Craven Community College, providing innovation in county services, creating efficiencies in government, and finally investing in employees to ensure market competitiveness while maximizing the efficient use of tax dollars. The recommended general fund budget for fiscal year 2027 is $168,611,778 and recommends that the advalorum tax rate for fiscal year 2027 remain at 44.48 cents per $100 of valuation. This year's recommended budget represents an increase of 4.5% compared to last year's adopted budget. The county concluded fiscal year 2025 in

a strong financial position with revenues surpassing expenditures by roughly 3.8 million in the general fund. The county's conservative spending approach also resulted in an unassigned fund balance of 52 million or 34.28% of expenditures with a reduction in long-term debt of 4.6 million. As we move towards fiscal year 2027, the county's financial position remains stable and shows continued positive momentum. For the first 10 months of the current fiscal year, revenues remain stable and in line with previous years. The stability is primarily attributable to the steadily expanding property tax and sales tax base. Other revenue sources, including state funding, charges for service revenue, and investment earnings have also impacted this recommended budget. Couple highlights here. Property tax revenue is showing stable growth as construction continues and the county remains a desirable destination for relocation and major regional source of employment. Sales tax revenue following tremendous growth during and after the co years is beginning to stabilize and while still a healthy source of revenue, it is not growing at the rates seen previously. Medicaid hold harmless revenue is budgeted 750,000 lower than fiscal year 2026 due to rising state Medicaid costs for Craraven County residents. SNAP SNAP administrative revenue will decrease by $612,514 due to cost cost shifts from the big beautiful bill. And finally, ABC board revenue is declining with this budget including only 650,000 budgeted compared to historical range of 1 million to 1.5 million. You'll see there a chart at the bottom of sales tax revenue showing that gradual uh stabilization of that fund. Again, this budget recommends no change to the property tax rate of 44.48 cents per $100 of valuation. Craven County maintains its status as one of the lowest tax rate counties in the region as shown in the chart below. See, we're

second lowest in our region compared geographically to uh neighboring counties. Fee changes. This budget includes minor fee changes, primarily right sizing our building inspection fees and new water tap and service fees, albeit not the water rates to align with peer jurisdictions and ensure the county covers the cost providing these essential services. The county continues to face rising costs due to inflation across all service areas. Costs continue to rise for equipment, materials, supplies, fuel, vehicles, contract services, and insurance. While inflationary pressures are impacting internal departments, this also affects funding requests made by outside agencies. Okay. Capital improvement plan. The board of commissioners gave staff direction to follow a new 5-year capital improvement plan or CIP. The creation of this plan followed an extensive effort by staff from across the county to identify the highest need capital projects and develop a funding plan to address them. This budget incorporates the CIP which provides flexibility and annual operating budgeting. Major capital projects beginning this fiscal year include government center east county will gain a more significant presence in the east as it looks to open a new building in Havlock. The building will house various state agencies such as department of motor vehicles, probation, parole, and the magistrate along with our social services department and flex space for elections and other county uses. This project includes the acquisition costs and provides for the renovation for public use. The Sudan site acquisition and parking lot development. The county will begin the transformation of the current Sudan building into a muchneeded parking facility, not only for the court system, but also our county facilities downtown. This project includes the acquisition costs and funds the construction. Martin drive purchase and renovations. County purchased a building on Martin Drive in Newurn, which will serve as an office and workspace for the facilities maintenance department. Again, the project includes the acquisition cost and funds the renovation. Co- city library expansion and parking lot extension. The county will build an

additional library and add 15 parking spaces with an additional road entry egress on Sunset Boulevard. DSS remodel, some office space in the DSS building would be renovated and repurposed to allow for the Hope Family Resource Center to move into the main building, freeing up additional space for other county functions. Animal shelter expansion phase two. Final phase of this project will include the addition of a vestibule area to assist with building efficiency, customer experience, and provide various upgrades throughout the shelter. 308 new street building remodel facilities maintenance department building will be remodeled to accommodate the public defender as facilities maintenance will move to other county space at Martin Drive. And lastly, a 300 ton chiller replacement at the judicial center has reached the end of its useful life and needs replacement. Several smaller projects will also be funded with the new CIP, including updates to the courthouse annex holding area, park restrooms, Croan convenience center asphalt paving, playground resurfacing, and various other repairs and upgrades throughout most county facilities. Additionally, the proposed budget allocates 500,000 to the capital reserve fund necessary to maintain the integrity of the CIP. Maintaining financial stability. The proposed budget includes a fund balance appropriation of $648,314. A fund balance appropriation is necessary to provide mandated essential services including increased support to Craraven County Schools and Craraven Community College. Still, the county recognizes the importance of maintaining adequate reserves. As mentioned previously, at the end of fiscal year 2025, the county's available fund balance stands at 34.28%. Which is comparable to that of our peer counties. Past events such as Hurricane Florence demonstrate the importance of maintaining healthy reserves, which the county continues to do with our conservative approach to spending. Investing in Craven County Schools and Craven Community College. The current expense funding for Craven County Schools is recommended at 26,552,876,

a nearly 4% increase over the last fiscal year. This allocation will cover additional personnel and operating costs, including salaries, retirement, health insurance, charter school funding, insurance, utilities, and software implementation. This continues the countyy's significant investment in support for our local school system. Craven County Schools is facing complex and serious budget challenges, as are many other school systems around the state. While the recommended funding amount continues the county's commitment to the school system, long-term issues must be addressed in the future. As revenues from federal and state sources tied to enrollment continue to decline, the cost to operate and maintain aging facilities does not. You can see there's a chart there. Blue line is operational approved by this board and the orange line is the operational request from the school system. Forecasted enrollment numbers continue to show a decline in students resulting in a proportional decline in state funding as you can see on the chart below looking from 201516 to 2425. Additionally, the county continues to provide school resource officers at every school. Uh if you remember board, this was the last time taxes were raised to put a SRO in every school and I believe that was about three years ago. As you can see, the costs for this continue to continue to uh grow uh including the last year there uh fiscal year 2526. Budget includes 2,898,576 in capital project funding, a 34.4% increase from the previous fiscal year, which includes a $630,27 increase for the Apple iPad lease. As noted in the school's presentation on May 4th, 2026, it is vital that school leaders complete a 10-year capital improvement plan so the county can plan for future capital needs. Craraven County schools still face structural budget problems. County staff and the board of commissioners will need to continue working with the school system

throughout the year to ensure a high quality education is provided to all students in Craven County while ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Proposed budget allocates $5,379,486 for Craven Community College's request requested current expense, an increase of 5.9% over the current year. This allocation will cover additional personnel and operating costs, including salaries, benefits, utilities, and insurance. The increase will also cover a portion of the overhead cost of the corporate training center and public safety training center. The college's capital outlay was budgeted at the same level as last year at 550,000. This year's projects include AC replacements, concrete, sidewalk repairs, parking lot, road maintenance, roofing repairs, and heating pipe replacement. Providing innovation in county services. The proposed budget invests in innovative services, including continuing the county's investment the new Havlock 340B pharmacy, which ensures lowcost medications are available to Craven County Health patients in the eastern part of the county. Staff will monitor this program as it takes off and promote it to our patients. Continuing to offer periodium at the register of deeds, allowing easy online access to vital records. Outfitting all sheriff's office patrol deputies with body cameras, ensuring we meet best practices and protect our deputies. Completing the water meter change out project, allowing for remote readings of water meters throughout the county, and continuing to provide cutting edge customer service tools and artificial intelligence through polymorphic and other programs. Creating efficiencies in government. PRO's budget seeks to streamline operations and provide efficiencies in county government throughout the following initiatives. Establish a standalone budget grants to strategic management department. As the complexity and size of the budget continues to grow, a dedicated team reporting the county managers necessary to ensure we strategically manage resources and align board direction with sound policy and

funding allocations. The department will reallocate existing resources by reclassifying the assistant to the county manager position to the budget director and two finance positions to senior analyst and analyst. The threeperson team will report directly to the county manager and will be responsible for the operating budget capital improvement plan performance measures measurement and management research and policy development communications and special projects. Transitioning the Metropolitan Planning Organization NO from the city of Newurn to Craraven County as the fiscal agent. Moving this organization in house will enable efficient transportation planning, grant writing, and advocacy throughout Craven County, including its municipalities. This change is essentially budget neutral as each member will continue paying membership fees to the organization. Contracting with thirdparty medical billing provider to reduce personnel costs in the health department at the request of the city of Havlock assuming building inspections within city limits with no new positions improving county revenue and consolidating services. And then unfunding five full-time positions and one part-time position due to efficiency gains from software contracting and other reasons. Building code inspector part-time accounting technician full-time patient relations representative full-time practical nurse two full-time accounting clerk full-time and public health nurse two three full-time investing in team craven budget keeps position growth to an absolute minimum with only five new full-time positions two of which were previous positions now unfrozen one of which was previously filled by a contract employee and another which is budget neutral and those positions s are one community health technician health which replaces a contract employee. One social worker three DSS adult services which is necessary to meet growing demand for adult protective services. Two detention officer ones which unfreezes two previously funded positions and one no supervisor transportation which is

budget neutral as we are now the fiscal agent for the NO instead of the city of Newurn. These modest staffing adjustments allow the county to meet mandated service requirements where limiting personnel growth. Employee benefit expenses for fiscal year 27 are projected to be $1,625,89 higher than the previous fiscal year. This is due to a 5% increase in health insurance premiums and higher contribution rates for the local government employee retirement system elders. Employee contributions will remain at 6% while employer rates will rise by 75 5% for general employees and 1.02% for law enforcement personnel as determined by the state system. The board adopted changes recommended by the pay and classification study in 2025 and those changes are included in this year's budget. Craven County remains the top employer in our region and we are competitive with peer counties and municipalities. Budget also recommends a 2% cost of living adjustment. Cola for all employees based on the consumer price index CPI data. Service demands continue to grow yet the county has kept employee growth to a minimum as shown in the proposed budget. Below you'll see a position count over the last 5 years including the proposed budget I'm presenting to you now. Looking ahead uh economic growth countyy's economic development efforts continue to assist in growing the local economy. Recent major announcements included Chhatzsworth Products announced an expansion with an investment of 15 million and 150 jobs over five years. BSH Home Appliances Corporation announced a move of their Tennessee facility to Craven County with an investment of over 11 million and 239 new jobs over 5 years. Coastal Carolina Regional Airport announced a lease agreement to build out additional industrial aeronautical space. And Craraven Glass Company, Inc. announced an expansion in the Craraven Industrial

Park with $5 million 15 new jobs. County has sold most of its remaining lots in the industrial park and is expanding the park to meet future demand. Is because of the county's businessfriendly environment, low tax rate, and customer service orientation that we we remain a top destination for business. Our economic prospects are strong and this growth will lead to new jobs and new revenue for the county. Federal and state policy uncertainty. Budget was developed in a time of immense state and federal policy uncertainty and potential changes that could greatly affect the county's ability to operate effectively. Property tax is the largest single source of revenue for Craven County, providing over 41% of general fund revenues. We depend on advalorum property taxes to fund essential and mandated services and maintain one of the lowest tax rates in the region. The general assembly is considering placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot that would limit the county's ability to levy property taxes. This in tandem with other proposals such as the elimination of portions of the sales tax would be detrimental to our ability to operate. We must keep a close eye on these changes. The county will be facing increased costs handed down from the federal and state levels to provide mandated social service programs, notably SNAP and Medicaid. Service demands remain high with additional requirements on staff, yet funding to provide these services being significantly reduced. Various other bills have been proposed, including studying DSS consolidation at the state level, reducing sales tax on grocery store purchases, and privatizing liquor sales. We will need to watch how these develop and ensure counties have a meaningful voice in the process. Okay, wrapping it up. This budget balances fiscal responsibility by addressing the many needs across the county while maintaining the lowest tax rate possible for the citizens of Craven County. The word that best describes this year's budget is discipline. County faces increased cost, unfunded mandates and stabilizing revenues following a period of rapid growth. As future revenue growth in the county remains precarious due to broader economic conditions and legislative challenges,

this budget ensures we can continue providing high level essential services. This budget forecasts, excuse me, this budget focuses on essentials and reflects prudent disciplined government. I commend the department heads, staff and agencies for their cooperation and valuable assistance in this budget process. I think our finance director Craig Warren, assistant county manager Gene Hodes, human resource director Amber Parker, IT director Steve Bennett, fiscal grant specialist Sarah Williams, and assistant to the county manager Shane Dyen for their essential contributions to developing this budget. I look forward to working with the commissioners and finalizing the budget. Recommended budget be available for public inspection in the county manager's office and posted on the county website. I recommend that the board schedule a public hearing at 6 pm on Monday, June 1st and conduct budget work sessions as required. Mr. Chairman, that is the the budget message and presentation. Look forward to just shortly after this meeting starting the process. So, I'm happy to answer questions now or dig in later. You you let me know. Do

any questions now or do we want to wait till we get in our session? Anybody have any questions? Session's fine. Looks like no questions at this time. Okay. So, thank you for a good concise overall view of what what we got in front of us. So, I would recommend to the board to go ahead and schedule the public hearing for June 1st at 6. I have a motion to schedule public hearing. Have a motion and a second. Second. All in favor? Opposed?

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We got to make we we've got a a hearing scheduled item number three. And by the way, before you come up, come on up as I uh I neglected to uh identify a guest who's with us today, Josh Whitford. Josh, put your hand up. Josh is uh has been elected or will be seated as the commissioner in this seat right here on December whatever date December something. So welcome Josh and we'll be looking forward to that date.

Good morning board. During the current fiscal year, the county garage has experienced cost increases related to tires, parts, materials, and specialized tools that have impacted budget expenditures beyond what was anticipated for the FY2526 budget. There have also been numerous unanticipated repairs this fiscal year related to transmission and engine replacements in the county's fleet. These price fluctuations and unexpected repairs have resulted in a shortage in the expenditure line, other supplies for the current fiscal year. With two months left in the fiscal year, staff estimates an additional $70,000 will be necessary in order to process vehicle services and repairs without delay. Staff is requesting approval of the attached budget amendment in the amount of $140,000 to allow the garage to continue processing vehicle services and repairs without delay for the remaind remainder of the fiscal year. This budget amendment also budgets the allocation to various departments. Thus, the amount appears doubled.

Okay. Okay. Do I have a motion to approve the amendment? Motion to approve. Second. Got a motion and a second. Roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes. Thank you, board. Thank you, Zach. Item number four, Mr. Scott Harelson, Havlock lease extension. Good morning, board. Good morning.

Um, two agenda items. Uh, first the Havlock lease extension. Uh, as you know, we have um a location and Havlock that houses a primary care clinic, Wick Clinic, and now also uh um a VA behavioral health clinic as well. So, um, the lease on that is up for renewal. Uh, year one would be $4,315 a month and a slight increase over a fiveyear time span. And f year five is $4,859 a month. So, incremental increases each year.

Okay. Board, we're being asked to approve this lease agreement. Do I have a motion to approve? So, move. Second. A motion and a second. Discussion. Clerk, please call discussion. I'm sorry. Could we have discussion? Sure. Sure. Sure. I have a question. Yes, ma'am. Um, in the lease agreement, I noticed that under security, it is marked not applicable and I'm just curious with us adding the pharmacy in there, do we need to relook at that? We do. I think that uh we will have to uh place even if it's um on the pharmacy itself and not the entire facility. uh it will probably be uh prudent to to add some layer of security there.

So would the onus be on the renters or the probably be on us since it's our pharmacy? Okay. Yes, ma'am. Anybody else? Do we have security on our otheries in the county? We do have a uh security on the on the entire building here in Newburn. This is just a lease facility down there in Havlock. We've never had it down there. Thank you. Yes, ma'am. Okay. Did I get a motion and a second? Yes. Okay. Now, Madam Clerk, please call the role. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard? Yes. Commissioner Hunt? Yes. Commissioner Mason? Yes. Vice Chairman Jones? Yes.

Chairman Booker? Yes. Okay. Item B.

Yes, sir. uh the quality reporting system. We've been uh contracting with a company called I2I to provide reports for two reasons. One's for um federal reports for our federally qualified health center. These are really detailed um and they're very similar to uh what Medicaid requires of us as a tier three provider. basically your performance and um what we get from these is uh the continued federal funding by uh giving the information to UNI UDS reports utilization data set reports for the federally qualified health center and we also get Medicaid incentives um our annual Medicaid incentive was $140,000. There's additional incentive payments though that come in sporadically um throughout the year in addition to that 140,000. So we are uh recouping some incentives and the overall cost for three years is $53,639 over a three-year period. And um I2I was bought out by Azera and that is actually about $2,000 a year less than what we're paying now.

Okay. We're being asked to approve the budget amendment 53 639. Any questions for Mr. Harelson on this? No, sir. I make a motion that we approve. Okay. Do I have a second? Second. Have a motion and a second. Madam clerk, call the role, please. Commissioner Mitchell. Yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes. Thank you for your Thank you. Appreciate it. Item number five, social services. Mr. Jeff Merritt,

chairman, commissioners, county managers. Thank you for having me. Today, we bring it before a budget amendment rep um related to our representative pay fund in accordance with GSV84 for fidiciary activities. Remember a couple years ago we had to put this in our general fund um instead of us paying it directly. So we're just asking for additional money for pass through to account for those costs that we're collecting on behalf of those youth and adults that we have to that we get and put in the special pay account and then pay from that account to the general fund and the general fund pays that for their expenses. Okay. Questions for Mr. Mur? This is this is completely pass through money. Completely pass through money. Yes, sir. Commissioner Howard. Okay. So, it's not new money.

I would make a motion that we approve the budget amendment amount of 1.5 million. Second. Have a motion and a second. Roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes. Thank you. Thank you, Jeff.

Item number six, Sheriff Fuse, budget amendment. Morning again. Um, this budget amendment, uh, we're requesting $30,98 for employee payouts. This is where we've had, uh, once again employees that have been long serving with us, have retired, and vacation, comp time, holiday pay is required for payout. Okay, any questions? Do I have a motion? So, to approve.

Second. Got a motion and a second to approve the budget amendment of 30,908. Madam clerk, please call the role. Commissioner Mitchell process chief. Yes. I'm sorry. Comm Commissioner Smith. Yes. Commissioner Howard? Yes. Commissioner Hunts? Yes. Commissioner Mason? Yes. Vice Chairman Jones? Yes. Chairman Booker? Yes. Just quick. Can I have a question, chairman? Okay, if that's okay. Um, the $30,000, does that reflect multiple retirements or just a few? This one is Major Hardison. Okay.

Who was with us almost 30 years? Okay. Thank you. Yes, Sheriff. I have a question. Reading the report um that you sent us this previous month, um it there was some uh varying amounts for medical diversion. Could you explain that, please? Uh in regards to inmate additional medical care, um I would have to look at the specifics of it uh as exactly what it was for, but usually this is additional medical costs that are incurred. Uh and then we will send them to a uh a bed, if you will, to address maybe their addictions or something like that. And during that time, some medical costs are incurred.

Okay? Okay. So, we're not we're paying for those medical costs. Sometimes we are. Okay. Yes, ma'am. I know. Invited him. Okay. Anything else for the sheriff? Thank you, sir. Number seven, Brody Brown. Good morning, board. Morning. Morning. I

have two items this morning. The first is the Golden League closeout. Uh, the soil and water department would like to request the close out of project fund 237. This grant was awarded by the Golden Leaf Foundation in the amount of $97,925 as a result of Hurricane Matthew to assist in stream debris removal and beaver management. The creeks clean were Swift Creek, Little Swift Creek, Bachelor Creek, Core Creek, and Flat Swamp. The project is complete. We request the board to close out fund 237 and request the chairman to sign the budget amendment and closing ordinance. Okay. Any questions for Mr. Brown?

This is to approve the close out of the stream debris removal project fund 97,000. Did you make a motion? Yes. Second. Approve. And a second. Okay. Call. Please call the role. Commissioner Mitchell. Yes. Commissioner Smith. Yes. Commissioner Howard? Yes. Commissioner Hunt? Yes. Commissioner Mason? Yes. Vice Chairman Jones? Yes. Chairman Booker. Yes. Second item, Mr. Brown.

Okay. The second item is the EWP closeout of the soil and water department would like to request the close out of project fund 245-20002. This grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture and North Carolina Department of Agriculture in the amount of $226,75 as a result of Hurricane Florence to assist in stream debris removal and to mitigate shoreline erosion. These funds were part of a larger grant for the same activities. Uh there were 48 total mitigated shoreline sites along the Noose River. Uh the creeks cleaned were Swift Creek, Little Swift Creek, Basher Creek, Core Creek, Flat Swamp, Fiser Swamp, Beaverdam Swamp, Kit Swamp, Upper Broad Creek, Meals Branch, and Unnamed Tributaries 1, two, and three of Core Creek. Uh this project is complete. We request the board to close out fund 245-20002 and request the chairman sign the budget amendment and close the board.

Bro, is one of these projects as you're going over just after you cross over the bridge uh leaving Newburn on the left side there we uh the Maru. Yes, that was a different separate project. Yeah, separate project. Okay. All right. Uh, any questions for him on this motion to approve? Second. Have a motion and a second. Uh, roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes. Thank Thank you, Brody. Mr. Strong, item number seven. Couple more items.

We're on a closeout roll. This uh closeout is HMGP closeout. The planning department requests to close out project fund 245 for the hazard mitigation grant program. This is associated with hurricane Florence. The grant was awarded by the state and FEMA in the amount of $392,945. We bought out four homes uh with these funds. The addresses that we purchased was 1,800 Frank Avenue, 405 How Road, 601 How Road, and 605 How Road. Uh, this project is complete. We request the board to close out fund 245, request the chairman sign the budget amendment and closing ordinance. Okay, any questions? Do I hear a motion?

Make a motion for approval. Second. Have a motion and a second. A roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker, yes. Okay. Next item.

Next item is a budget amendment to acquire funds to uh demo a dilapidated structure. On uh May 4th, the county was granted authority by the court system to remove a dilapidated structure located in Carolina Pines. This judgment allows the county to remove the structure on or after June 4th, uh June 7th, excuse me. The planning department requests a budget amendment in the amount of 25,000 to move forward with the demo as best testing and um grading of the site. Okay. Um, any questions?

I already have a question. Um, is that going to be the total cost of this project? Yes, ma'am. That's the demo. Um, as best as testing and removal, if there is any. Okay. That's to Wow. Yeah, we got some pretty good pricing. I'm surprised had a little a bidding war going on between two contractors. What if you find asbests? Is there additional costs associated with that? We estimate if there is any, it's going to be about $2,000 and that's included in that 25,000. What what year is the home? It was built in 71. Probably probably will not have asbestous. Commissioner Howard, would you like to make a motion? So moved. Second. It's in his district. And I know he's been working on it.

Been working on this for a long time. So we have a motion and a second. Roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Booker. Yes. I'm sorry. Can I make a statement? Just just for public consumption, it's a house that seemed a very nice house that

that seemed to be abandoned like 14 years ago. Uh since then, due to hurricanes, the roof has fallen in. Uh neighbors have tried to keep it up. Uh they the main neighbor is uh getting ready to turn 90 years old, Colonel Faulner. And uh he's not able to take care of it anymore. So, it's we went through all the due process of contacting people and trying to get someone to but in the end it'll probably be a situation where where we make money off of the property I would think because it's going to sell for more than 25,000 even the land itself. So, it will be no cost to the county plus we'll probably I would predict maybe possibly make some money or at least break even. Yeah, I'd say in the range of $40,000 for the lot. Yeah.

You have something else? Yeah, I was just thinking 36,000 for the lot, but Okay.

All right. So, my third and final topic, uh, as the manager um, spoke in regards to the county taking over the build inspection program for the city of Havlock. So on May the 7th, the planning department received a memorandum understanding that formalizes agreement between the city of Havlock and Craraven County for the county to provide permitting and inspection services for all buildings within the city of Havlock's jurisdiction. This agreement allows the county to administer all aspects of the building code enforcement program, including permit issuance for construction, alteration, repairs, and demolition. Uh the county will receive the permitting fees. Uh we will perform the inspections and we will issue final compliance certifications such as COS that are required for new construction. The city of Havlock will continue to perform their own zoning, storm water and land use regulations. Thisou ensures efficient coordination between the two entities and outlines responsibilities for both parties. Once uh once thisou is approved, it will begin on June 1st just so that we can let all the citizens know that they'll need to either come to our office or we'll have the online portal up and going for the citizens of Havlock that's been used to visiting their office. So, and u it will remain in place until mutual consent to discontinue that agreement. So, at this time, if the board does not have any questions, um request the board to accept and approve theou as drafted.

Questions? Just just one question. We have similarus with other communities in the county. Correct. Yes, ma'am. For the benefit of the citizens, could you discuss which ones those are? It would probably just be easier for me to say all communities except for Bridgton and Newburn after this one is adopted. Okay. Thank you. Any other questions? Happy to make the motion approve this with the city of Havlock. Okay. Second. I have a motion and a second. Uh, let's do a roll call, please. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, yes. Chairman Ber,

yes. I think this is a positive move to again consolidate services under one instead of having different departments doing things, different towns, it's all under the county this week. So, that's positive. Thank you. Thanks, sir. Item number eight is appointments. Uh if you'll note, uh commissioners under pending Craven EG planning board, Craven County Clean Sweep Committee, Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, Recreation Advisory Council. Uh those are pending under current. First one, Craraven County Board of Trustees. Uh Augustus Willis seeks reappoint. I recommend Judge Willis.

Okay. Are there any other nominations? Hearing none, uh, Mr. Willis will be reappointed by acclamation. Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council, Jonathan Stevens seeks reappoint. Do I have a nomination for Mr. Stevens? I would make that nomination. Okay. Are there any others? Hearing no other nominations, Mr. Stevens will be reappointed by acclamation. Candace Garris seeks reappointment to the 911 emergency medical dispatch position.

I would make that recommendation that she be reappointed. Okay. Are there any other nominations? Hearing none, Miss Garris will be appointed by acclamation. James Hendris Hendris seeks reappointment. Uh Township 5 Harllo Fire. I would make the nomination recommend that he be reappointed, please. Are there any other nominations for that position? Hearing none, he will be appointed by acclamation. Fireman's re relief board of trustees, township six, Jason Clower seeks reappointment. I'll recommend Jason.

Okay. Are there any other recommendations? Any other nominations? Hearing none, Mr. Ch will be appointed by acclamation. and Dennis Wilson seeks reappoint same position and I'll nom I'll nominate Dennis also okay are there any other nominations hearing none he will be appointed by acclamation under juvenile crime prevention council Jennifer Dy seeks reappointment make that nomination

are there any other nominations hearing none she Miss Dy will be appointed by acclamation And lastly, Jean Canic seeks reappoint substance abuse professional. I make that appointment nomination as well. Okay. Are there any other nominations for that position? Hearing none, Miss Kenneth will be appointed by acclamation.

Under upcoming notice, we have an opening coming up for the County Recreation Advisory Council and the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council. All these appointments will be immediate. Item number nine, county attorney's report. Mr. Grady.

Yes, sir. Mr. Chairman, good morning to you and the commissioners. I have uh two items for your consideration this morning. Both involve county-owned real estate that we acquire through the tax foreclosure process. The first parcel is located at 1428 Lincoln Street. It's within the city of Newburn with a parcel ID number of8 013055. Um the initial bid amount was $4,250. We had no upset bid. So that became the last and final bid. The original uh taxes and cost of the foreclosure together were $2,558.19 and the tax value of the property is $8,500. Um the city of Newburn owns this property with us jointly and they've already given their approval uh for this uh sale and I would suggest that the commissioners do likewise.

Okay. We're being asked to adopt a resolution approving conveyance after expiration of upset bid for parcel 8013 055. Do I have a motion? Motion to approve. Second. Have a motion and a second. Any questions? Roll call, please. Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, Chairman Booker, yes. Okay. Second one.

Uh the second one is another approval after the expiration of the upset bid uh process. The property is located at 606 White Street, also within the city of Newburn with a parcel ID number of 8006125. The original uh bid amount was $2,400. Uh, and we did receive um competi competing bids during the upset bid process with the last and highest bid being $3,000. Um, the original taxes and cost of foreclosure together were $3,473 and the tax value the value of the property is $4,800. Uh, the city of Newburn has already given its final approval uh to this sale and I would ask that the commissioners consider doing likewise. So moved.

Second. Have a motion and a second. Madam clerk, please call the role. Commissioner Mitchell, yes. Commissioner Smith, yes. Commissioner Howard, yes. Commissioner Hunt, yes. Commissioner Mason, yes. Vice Chairman Jones, Chairman Booker, yes. That concludes my report. Thank you, sir.

County manager report. Mr. Chairman, I thought I already met my word count for the day, but I guess y'all invited me back up for some more. Um, really exciting morning here. Josie Zakresky is our new budget analyst. Today is her first day. Josie, if you stand up, just wave to the crowd. Josie is originally from Arkansas, a graduate of the University of Arkansas, and just recently finished her MPA at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, like a week ago. So, yeah, we're excited Jos's here and she'll get to see firsthand budget week, right? What a what a great week to start. So, uh last week I was able to attend uh the Krisama meeting, which again is our regional landfill. Uh they did adopt their budget as I had spoke about before. There is a uh tipping fee increase both at the Tuscora landfield and also at both the transfer stations in Carterette and Pamlico counties. They did um however make a decision at that meeting to close the landfill on July 4th. That is something they've not done before and Commissioner Jones and Stephen and I have talked about that. It does provide operational challenges to us. So if we remain open and the landfill is closed, we cannot pull any of our boxes as they fill. July 4th is on a Saturday this year. So, generally, um July 4th or any other holiday like July 4th where we're open are not typically busy days, but because it falls on a weekend, we have no idea to judge. We just know at some point if we remain open, um we could run into a problem on that. So, you know, one theory is we could stay open, we could test it out, see how it works. The other is we could uh close the convenience centers that day. That's really the only two options out there. We could do a

modified schedule maybe for half a day. Uh the landfill made the decision uh because obviously their business on that day was relatively low as they've seen in the past and to give their employees the day off because generally uh with it being a holiday, they do have attendance issues that with everybody wanting that day off. So just putting that before the board, you don't have to make a decision today. we can talk about it um some other time, but we are getting pretty close and we would like to notify if you do make a change as soon as possible on that. Okay. And in your agenda package, the third thing I have for you, um 47 other counties and many cities across North Carolina have provided resolutions in reference to the modifications to the county property tax authority. In this instance, could be city tax authority, too. Obviously, I have an agenda in your package. This is one that we modified um to fit our needs. U it is similar to the other ones that you've probably seen coming across from all the other counties. I think we've gotten quite a few. Happy to have discussion about that with you. I mean, bottom line is we just want a voice at the table, right? We understand the predicament that that's out there related to revaluations and taxation. Again, we have one of the lowest practical tax rates in North Carolina. So, I'm not sure the narrative is necessarily for us, but the changes will affect us no matter what. So, happy to read into the record, happy to discuss it, happy to do whatever you like with it.

I'd like you to read it, but first, are there any questions or comments or maybe afterward we may have some. So, why don't you go ahead and read it and then we will uh see if anybody has any questions. Sure.

Resolution opposing modifications to county property tax authority. Whereas county governments are constitutionally and statutoily required to provide essential public services, including but not limited to public safety, emergency response, education, infrastructure, public health, and social services. Whereas property taxes constitute a primary stable and locally controlled source of revenue necessary to fund these essential county services and to meet both ongoing operational needs and long-term capital obligations. And whereas the authority to levy, assess, and adjust property taxes allows county governments to respond responsibly to changing economic conditions, population growth, service demands, emergencies, and state or federal mandates. And whereas counties follow transparent procedures prior to any tax changes by presenting annual budgets on a strict schedule, and hosting open meetings for citizen input and questions. And whereas proposals to modify, limit, cap, freeze, or otherwise restrict county property tax authority, whether through constitutional amendment, statuto change, or administrative action, may reduce local flexibility, undermine fiscal stability, and shift costs to less stable revenue sources. Whereas such modifications may result in unintended consequences, including service reductions, delayed infrastructure investment, increase increased fees, and disproportionate impacts on residents. And whereas county governments are best positioned to balance fiscal responsibility with service delivery, accountability, and responsiveness to local needs through transparent budgeting and elected representation. Now therefore, be it resolved that the county board of commissioners supports the current property tax authority in North Carolina, which enables counties to manage property tax rates within statutory limits. And be it further resolved that the Caribbean County Board of Commissioners formally opposes any constitutional amendment that would restrict, cap, reduce, otherwise limit county property tax authority.

Okay. Comments? The board? I would make a motion that we approve the resolution. Okay. Second. I have one comment. And is there any way you could put a specific uh reference to the county having uh good stewardship and a record of of of frugal? Frugal is the wrong word, but but responsible management of its property taxes disciplined. Yep. If the board just will amend the motion to include that, that'd be great. We'll absolutely do that. Yes, include that in the motion. I would make that amendment. All in favor? I opposed. We'll all agree.

That's all I have, sir. We will need uh close session. Mr. Grady will walk you into that when you get there. And we'll also need at the end of that when we come back into open session about 30 minutes to turn the room around before budget work sessions. Thank you. Yes, sir. I had a question. Question. Yes. I had a question about your report that you sent us or Shane sent us last week. Sure. Um there was an audit done in the for the board of elections and that's the only statement that there was an audit performed. Is it completed? Did we pass? Uh you know I think this was a check-in. Obviously the board of elections has been shifted under the state department. So the new director's coming in and looking at what's going on there. I haven't got the feedback from how that went. I'm happy to share with you when I do.

That'd be great. I believe it's something that he's doing in all 100 counties. So I don't believe this was any specific issue. just kind of checking to see how the policies, procedures, and all that things are going. So, but I'll be happy to share it with the board when it's ready. I had the same question. Okay. Got it. Okay. We have nothing else. Thank you. Thank you. Uh I've asked M. Senator Bob Brinsen to come and give us an update on the state of his world and the state senate. Bob, welcome.

Well, I I appreciate that, Mr. Chair. the uh what I really wanted to come and talk to you about is is the budget. Uh since you're going into uh looking at your budget today and the House and Senate have reached a agreement framework uh last week and so I wanted to give you what I thought how that would impact you or at least give you the information. uh you can decide how it impacts you, but uh especially since the framework already includes uh pay raises uh in certain areas. So for teacher raises, the budget agreement provides uh an average of a 8% salary increase across the board. Uh it increases the base salary for beginning teachers to $48,000. Now, of course, this is before any state supplement or any local supplement. Uh but that's uh on the state schedule. That's the starting salary. Uh all teachers also receive bonuses. If you're in years uh 0 through 15, the bonus will be $500. And then in support of veterans teachers 16 years and up, the bonus will be $1,000. Assistant principles who are paid on the teacher schedule, they'll receive an average of 6.3 salary increase. And then school principles and non-certified staff will also receive a 3% increase. The uh state employees across the board are going to receive a 3% increase. I had some uh questions come to me. So I'll I'll state that what I have been told that includes magistrates uh who haven't had an in a u salary increase in about 17 years.

I'm sorry. Includes who? Magistrates. Magistrates. Thank you.

So 3% increase for them as well. There is a 2.5% uh bonus cola bonus for the retirees as well. And then all state employees will receive a one-time bonus uh based on salary. Any state employee making less than $65,000 will receive a $1,750 bonus and those making 60 more than $65,000 will receive a $1,000 bonus. Uh essentially this represents an average increase of 4.5% for state employees. As far as our law enforcement raises, uh we want to give raises to those hardworking law enforcement officers and it includes a 20.3% raise in stu including the step increases for SBI AL officers and the SBI civilian personnel will receive an average of 27.5%. For the state highway patrol, it'll be a 17.7% raise and uh state highway patrol civilian personnel, it'll be 11 12% increase. Uh correctional officers will receive on average a 15.4 four salary increase uh with their step increases and probation probation and parole officers will receive an average of 10.1% salary increase and then salary increase will be 13% for the other LEOs across the state government including the state capital police. Uh what is different also in this budget is there's a set aside for $40.1 million to provide local

law enforcement officers across the state with a one point uh with a $1,750 bonus. Um all these bonuses and raises will apply to the 2627 budget. And I'm expecting the budget conference report will start going through the committees about mid June. and we'll have it uh passed uh before the beginning of the new fiscal year. Um, as far as some of the things that the uh county manager brought up, uh I'll remind you that any lawmaker can file a bill. Uh so, it's a matter of taking a look at at what those bills are, whether those bills move or not. But I am open to any uh feedback from from any of you, including our constituents. And uh just to address kind of the the property taxes and where I not that I see where that's going, but uh you'll probably see a constitutional amendment, but I think it'll be rather generic that the u give the general assembly authority to pass statutes about property taxes rather than set any specific limits or any uh specific ific policy in that constitutional amendment. Uh one of the things that I am advocating the idea that I have heard is actually to separate setting your tax rate from the budget rather than having that as the uh as the same vote. Essentially, you would notice any property tax uh increase, have a public hearing, and have a separate vote on any uh property tax increase rather than including it in uh your budget. Make it a separate vote. That's kind of where

where I'm sitting on that. Uh as far as property taxes go, it's a transparency in property taxes. Um, and as you have stated, uh, as the, uh, county manager has stated, I think, um, counties in in my district and, uh, in the eastern and western districts aren't the ones that are having the problems. And so, uh, we certainly are then a voice of reason uh, to those that actually live in the, uh, counties in between. But subject to your questions, Mr. Sure. Anyone have questions for the senator?

I just have a comment that when this all started being discussed, a representative who is not represent our county, but is nearby made a statement that counties are spending money like drunken sailors. I don't know who he was referring to, but when statements like that are made and the public hears that um that that goes a long way toward uh causing representatives and senators say, "Hey, people are in an uproar." I think based on what the county manager presented a half hour ago, that ain't us. Understood.

And so, uh we haven't raised taxes. This is my seventh year. be my eighth year of working on a budget. M Commissioner Mitchell as well. We've only raised taxes one time and that was to put an SRO, a deputy in every school. That's the only tax in increase as far as our rates in eight years. And Lord knows a lot of things have gone up in eight years. But we haven't raised residential, excuse me, and commercial property taxes. So I take offense when somebody makes a statement like that that we're spending money like drunken sailor. So commissioner Hower,

I did have a question and my fellow teachers would scorn me probably if I didn't ask it. There's a time frame from the 16th year of teaching to the about the 24th year of teaching. A 10-year freeze in paid for anybody that's a veteran teacher. So for 10 years you see no increase as a teacher. And that's a real kind of like issue for a lot of veteran teachers that you know once I hit that 16th 17th year I'm not going to see another pay raise for another and I'm in that by the way by a few years now. I'm not going to see another pay raise or step increase I should say for nine 8 n 10 years.

So no less time. So exactly why would you is it a lot of veteran teachers of course considered a mechanism to push us out. I mean I'm not sure that that's the case but that's what they

that's certainly that's certainly not the intent. Um, we I recognize that we have veterans teachers, veteran teachers, but the intent was to get our veteran teachers to the highest pay band as quickly as possible and so they make more money earlier. That's the intent. The other thing that we have done in recent years is added advanced teaching roles that they can take on additional responsibilities for additional funds to help out our younger teachers. And so between those two thoughts and philosophies, that's why it it stops at that level.

Okay. So, um, my only I just don't I just can't think of another profession where you go through a 10-year kind of freeze in pay like that, but that would just be my concern for the pass on to your fellow legislators. And I think, and I'm not, it's not a critique. You know, we brought that we've talked about this before, Bob. I appreciate what you're doing for our state, but and for teachers overall, but that would be my concern. Thank you.

Could I make one comment and and it relates to this? I understand the intent and it makes sense but sometimes intent and impact are not the same thing. Um just as food for thought. I agree because oftenime there are a rose for those teachers that does not increase give them any pay because there is a certain expectation that those teachers that principles and the supervisors have of of those teachers that they must certain performances that they have to do. So I think that uh there is a light that's discouraging because uh when you when you reach that pinnacle and doing that your best work and someone younger that's that haven't quite gotten the ropes learned the ropes of seem to be you know advancing in paper when you're staying there. I'm a former

educator as well. So, and while I'm speaking, I also have concern about those of us who've retired and we we get that like as well. You get the one time pay and um you know, you have that same experience all year just like other understood. So, I wish that we could address that in some way. I I'll take those concerns back. Okay. Okay, we're going to have all the medical expenses and all that kind of thing. On an unrelated note, is there a retiree cola included in the budget? A bonus. A bonus 2.5%. Any other questions or comments for the senator?

Okay. Right. Thank you. Thank you so much for coming. Thank you. Thank you. Do you want Did you have anything? Okay. Um I'm talking to right behind you is our tax administrator. Sorry. Um Okay. Commissioner's comments. Oh, I'll start with you, Commissioner Smith.

All right. Thank you. Um the one thing I have in mind today is that u hurricane season is fast approaching. And I think it's maybe now and I in in my mind I'm concerned about safety of our citizens. And so I I would hope that everyone has safety in mind. We do have some pamphlets that the counter offers to our citizens. Not enough for every person, but we're hoping to put them in strategic places like recreation centers and things of that sort. But every cit citizen needs to know when a hurricane is coming what they need to do, what supplies they need, what they need to do if they stay at home, what they need to do if they're going to leave home, if they have animals that they need to take care of their care, if they have to leave, directions they need to take, if they're going to travel or must travel out of the area where they are to be safe. So, it is important that you don't wait until the hurricane is approaching. you need to know what to do because it is common for us to have those hurricans to hit our area. So I think that it would be uh advisable that all of us have an approach of what we need to do when we have a big storm coming.

It's been almost eight years and we can get complacent. Absolutely. Okay. Yeah. Yeah. I'd like to express my sincere gratitude for the Hadlock Chamber of Commerce. They probably put on the their best salute to veterans this past week. Then it's been my favorite one. They had a guest speaker named uh Lewis Burgold, 101-year-old World War II veteran

who was sharp as attack. Spoke for 40 minutes, didn't look at notes, not one time. Um he spoke about his life experience and his intense combat and battles to include Bogenville, Guam, and Ewima. when he was injured on Emojima by a mortar from the Japanese that he was put on a medical evacuation ship and as he was on the ship he looked over and he witnessed he witnessed the raising of the flag on Mount Euima. Oh wow.

I mean just what an incredible experience he shared so many different experiences. It was extremely moving. Um, I hope he comes back here. And I will add, um, Lewis is a member of the world's finest fighting force, the United States Marine Corps. And as such, at 101 years old, he is still serving his community. He lives in Jacksonville, but drives down to Wilmington, and he gives tour to schoolaged children above on on board of the USS North Carolina. He drives himself at 101 years old and he shares his life's experience so that these children grow up having a little bit of knowledge of what sacrifices were made by people that came before them. Just an incredible event. Havlock Chamber did a spectacular job on it. If you've never attended, highly recommend. I also want to invite everyone to attend the city of Havlock's Memorial Day service. It's 9:00 on May 25th at the Havlock Tourist and Event Center so that we can all remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Everybody talks about the event in Newburn and it's a wonderful Memorial Day service to be sure, but people can find the parking challenging in Newburn to say the least. So if you'd like to remember without the parking challenges, you're welcome to join us in Havlock May 25th at 9:00. Thank you. Thank you.

I'd like to echo Commissioner Smith's concern over being prepared. Now is the time. All even though the season goes from June 1 to 30 November, right?

You can get a hurricane anytime starting in probably April and extending into December. And u I encourage people to be prepared now and not wait. Um, I'd like to thank the planning commission and the soil and water department for for responding rapidly to the beaver infesting infest in infestation um out around Broad Creek and uh I think it's it's Broad Creek, Eper Broad Creek and up and around Bridton. And even though the Beavers are fighting their big battle and trying to return the scene, they're they're out there uh fixing it. Um, I I shouldn't say this, but uh I love the Marine Corps, but the Marine Corps fights battles and the United States Army fights wars. Thank you very much.

Okay, with that one, uh, Commissioner Howard, uh, I'll just say I do have a town quickly. I have a town hall with the sheriff tonight, 6:30 p.m. at the Township 6 Fire Department. Um, every everyone's welcome to join us. We'll be obviously addressing some local concerns with the golf course. Uh I'll give my constituents a budget update and then the sheriff will give his quarterly update as well. We generally do one about every quarter uh one of these town halls. So I think we're going in and I think we've had a couple of extras here and there. So I think we're going into 13th or 14th town hall and the sheriff's joined me probably for eight or nine of those at least. Thank you.

Uh just quick and dirty. Uh the military cemetery in Newburn is a national military cemetery for people who are not aware of that. Uh mostly full memorial day ceremonies will be at 1100 on Monday. Okay. Go Navy. Monday at 1100.

All right. I have nothing to add to those fine reports. Um, I want to thank all the visitors who are here today for coming. I hope you found it profitable. We are going to go into close session. Following close session in this same room, we will start our budget discussions and we will go all day. So uh close session will be we are going to be uh discussing uh 143-318-11 A3 to consult with our attorney to protect the attorney client privilege. So that will be what we're going to be discussing.

Mr. Chairman, the motion uh should also include um that we are discussing the case of Craraven County. William and Margaret Butler. Okay. Whoever wants to make the motion. You heard that. Motion to go to close session. Okay. Second motion. A motion and a second. All in favor? I opposed. Motion passes. We're We're going into close session. And again, we thank you all for coming.