Ashe County public meetings in 2020
30 substantive meetings from 2020, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
County Commission
The commission will review monthly tax and DSS reports and consider a request to purchase dental clinic property. They will also discuss naming a section of Highway 221 in honor of State Senator Steve Goss.
- Request to purchase Dental Clinic Property
- Resolution to name a section of Highway 221 in honor of State Senator Steve Goss
- Long Term Care Joint Community Advisory Committee reappointments
- Monthly Tax Report presentation
- DSS Monthly Stats Report presentation
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to name a section of Highway 221 in honor of NC State Senator Steve Goss, with an amendment moving the section to run from Water Tank Road to the Ashe/Watauga line. The board also approved the December 7 organizational meeting minutes, the agenda, the monthly tax report, and a work session date of January 19, 2021. In executive session, the board authorized filing an answer in the case United States of America v. Thomas Earl Tilley, et al. No public comments were offered.
- Approved resolution naming Hwy 221 section for Sen. Steve Goss, amended to Water Tank Road to Ashe/Watauga line (5-0)
- Approved Dec. 7 organizational meeting old business minutes (5-0)
- Approved Dec. 7 organizational meeting new business minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda as written (5-0)
- Approved November 2020 monthly tax report (5-0)
- Set work session for Jan. 19, 2021, with Feb. 1 as alternate (5-0)
- Reappointed Phyllis Ashley and Christine Haines to Long Term Care Committee (5-0)
- Authorized filing answer in USA v. Thomas Earl Tilley, et al. (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This agenda is for a special joint meeting with the Board of Education. No specific business items or discussion topics are listed beyond the call to order and adjournment.
The Ashe County Commission and Board of Education held a joint special meeting to review progress on the new Ashe County Middle School. Architect Larry Greene presented design changes, including a two-story building, enlarged auditorium, health clinic, and more instructional space, with construction expected to finish by early 2023. No formal votes were taken; the boards discussed traffic concerns and the possibility of hiring a construction manager at-risk, which was deferred to a future Board of Education meeting. The meeting adjourned unanimously.
- Reviewed middle school construction plans and timeline (no vote)
- Discussed DOT traffic flow concerns; chairman offered to contact DOT (no vote)
- Deferred decision on hiring construction manager at-risk to Board of Education (no vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 2:27 p.m. (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Board of Commissioners will conduct an organizational meeting to elect a Chairman and Vice Chairman. The board will also appoint the County Attorney and Clerk, select committee appointments, and adopt rules of procedure. Presentations include updates on COVID-19, DSS budget amendments, and tax overpayment procedures.
- Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
- Appointment of County Attorney and County Clerk
- Setting bonds for Sheriff, Register of Deeds, Tax Administrator, and Finance Officer
- DSS Budget Amendments presentation
- Airport Advisory Board appointment
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners held its organizational meeting, unanimously re-electing Todd McNeill as chairman and William Sands as vice chairman. The board approved several appointments, including John Kilby as county attorney and Ashley Honeycutt as county clerk, and set fidelity bonds at $100,000 for four county officials. It also adopted the board's rules of procedure, made committee assignments, and approved multiple budget amendments, including COVID-19 related funds for Social Services and a $4,600 transfer for a K9 cage.
- Re-elected Todd McNeill as chairman and William Sands as vice chairman (unanimous)
- Set $100,000 fidelity bonds for Sheriff, Register of Deeds, Tax Administrator, and Finance Officer (unanimous)
- Appointed John Kilby as county attorney and Ashley Honeycutt as county clerk (unanimous)
- Adopted Rules of Procedure without amendment (unanimous)
- Appointed commissioners to committees including WDC and BROC (unanimous)
- Approved $101,292 Pandemic LIEAP and $30,567 CPS APS COVID budget amendments for DSS (unanimous)
- Approved resolution to apply small tax overpayments to future taxes (unanimous)
- Approved $4,600 transfer for K9 cage and $1,500 donation for Christmas with Cops (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (13 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This agenda consists of procedural boilerplate for an organizational meeting. The commission will call the meeting to order, approve minutes from the November 16, 2020, regular session, and adopt the current agenda.
- Approval of November 16, 2020, regular session minutes
The Board of Commissioners met for a regular session and approved the minutes from the November 16, 2020 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken during the session.
- Approved November 16, 2020 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)
- Adopted the meeting agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will review several departmental updates, including the annual Emergency Operations Plan. They will also consider the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and a property transfer for Highway 163 access. Budget amendments and committee appointments are also on the agenda.
- Approval of Parks and Recreation Master Plan
- Approval of Highway 163 Access Property Transfer
- Annual approval of Emergency Operations Plan
- Review of budget amendments
- Local Emergency Planning Committee appointments
The Board of Commissioners approved budget increases for debt service, school capital projects, economic development, and county capital projects. The commission also approved a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan contract and a child welfare MOU.
- Approved budget increase of $5,062,500 for Debt Service (5-0)
- Approved budget increase of $13,150,000 for Capital Projects Fund – Schools (5-0)
- Approved budget increase of $400,000 for Economic Development (5-0)
- Approved budget increase of $239,867 for Capital Projects Fund – County (5-0)
- Approved MOU between NC Department of Health and Human Services and Ashe County (5-0)
- Approved contract for a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan (5-0)
- Approved annual Emergency Operations Plan (5-0)
- Appointed Jennifer Schroder, Danny Houck, and Dr. Eisa Cox to the Local Emergency Planning Committee (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will consider a resolution for the disposal of Hwy 163 property. Tom Breggar will present the Hanger Lease Extension Policy. An executive session is also scheduled to discuss personnel issues and property acquisition.
- Resolution for Disposal of Real Property - Hwy 163 Property
- Presentation on Hanger Lease Extension Policy
- Approval of October 2020 meeting minutes
- Executive session regarding personnel and property acquisition
The Board of Commissioners adopted a new Airport Hangar Lease Extension Policy. They also approved a resolution to dispose of a log cabin located on the future Highway 163 Convenience Center site.
- Adopted Airport Hangar Lease Extension Policy (5-0)
- Approved resolution to dispose of log cabin on Highway 163 Convenience Center site (5-0)
- Approved October 5, 2020 Special Meeting Minutes (5-0)
- Approved October 19, 2020 Regular Session Minutes with correction to Golden Leaf Grant vote (5-0)
- Approved October 19, 2020 Executive Session Minutes (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will review monthly reports from DSS and the Tax Administrator. The agenda includes proposed text amendments to the Cell Tower Ordinance and a fund transfer request from the Sheriff's Office. Updates on the Coronavirus Relief Fund and Golden Leaf Grant applications are also scheduled.
- Approval of text amendments to Cell Tower Ordinance
- Request to transfer funds from Asset Forfeiture to Capital Outlay/Vehicles
- Update on Coronavirus Relief Fund and County Plan Amendment
- Review of Golden Leaf Grant applications
- Appointment to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
The Board approved four ranked applications for the Golden Leaf Grant and allocated $30,000 in CARES Act funds to the Sharing Center. Other actions included amending the Cell Tower Ordinance and approving a budget transfer for the Sheriff's Office.
- Approved $30,000 CARES Act funding for the Sharing Center (5-0)
- Approved submission of 4 Golden Leaf Grant applications: Industrial Park, Agricultural Center, Partnership for Ashe, and Ashe County Schools & Wilkes Community College (5-0)
- Approved text amendments to the Cell Tower Ordinance (5-0)
- Approved $33,104 budget transfer for Sheriff's Office vehicles and equipment (5-0)
- Approved Soil and Water Conservation Shared Personnel Mutual Aid Agreement (5-0)
- Appointed Michael Lea to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (5-0)
- Approved 2021 County Employee Holiday Schedule (5-0)
- Approved September 2020 Monthly Tax Report (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The County Commission and West Jefferson Town Aldermen approved an addendum to an incentive agreement with GE Aviation to support the facility's long-term viability. The agreement includes accelerated payments and additional funding through 2023.
- Approved GE Aviation incentive agreement addendum (Unanimous County Commission; 5-0 Town Aldermen)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding 2020 Community Development Block Grant funds to assist with utility payments and food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting also includes updates on the 2020 elections, highway access information, and county personnel requests.
- Public hearing for 2020 CDBG funds for utility and food assistance
- Presentation on NC Highway 163 river access information
- Update on the 2020 elections
- Appointment of a commissioner to fill the vacancy left by Larry Dix
- Golden Leaf Grant Community-Based Grants Initiative update
The Board appointed Chuck Olive to fill the vacancy created by Larry Dix's resignation. The Commission also approved a $900,000 CDBG grant application for COVID-19 utility assistance and a land sale for $5,000.
- Appointed Chuck Olive to the Board of Commissioners (3-1)
- Approved resolution to apply for $900,000 in CDBG funds for utility assistance (4-0)
- Adopted Citizen Participation Plan for 2020 CDBG funding (4-0)
- Approved untimely 2020 property tax exemption for Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church (4-0)
- Approved $5,000 bid from Peter and Wanda Okrepky for landfill property (4-0)
- Appointed Chuck Olive to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (4-0)
- Appointed Chuck Olive to the Appalachian District Health Board (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding CDBG funds for COVID-19 relief. The agenda also includes requests to write off delinquent tax bills from 1993–2010 and an agreement with the Town of Lansing for tax collection.
- Public hearing for CDBG funds to assist with COVID-19 utility payments or food insecurity
- Request to authorize writing off delinquent tax bills from 1993–2010
- Interlocal agreement with the Town of Lansing for municipal property tax collection starting July 2021
- Discussion regarding whistleblower policy and board meeting room AV upgrades
- Reappointment to the Joint Community Advisory Committee
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and approved moving forward with an application for up to $900,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to assist low- to moderate-income residents with utility payments or food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The board also approved several routine items, including the August 2020 tax report, writing off delinquent tax bills from 1993-2010, an interlocal agreement with the Town of Lansing for tax billing, an updated Whistleblower Policy, and a $19,439.69 quote for video upgrades to the board's meeting room. The board agreed to allow Ashe County Schools to use space at Family Central for childcare and reappointed Mary Sexton to the Joint Community Advisory Committee. An executive session was held to consult with a DSS attorney, with no action taken.
- Approved application for 2020 CDBG funds for COVID-19 utility/food assistance (up to $900,000)
- Approved August 2020 Tax Report as presented
- Approved write-off of 1993-2010 delinquent tax bills as required by General Statutes
- Approved Interlocal Agreement with Town of Lansing for municipal tax billing starting July 2021
- Approved updated Whistleblower Policy
- Approved $19,439.69 quote for video add-on to board meeting room
- Agreed to allow Ashe County Schools to use Family Central space for childcare
- Reappointed Mary Sexton to Joint Community Advisory Committee (3-year term)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission is meeting to consider several administrative requests. These include a budget amendment for the Sheriff's Office body camera program and proposals for radio financing.
- Approval of Whistleblower Policy
- Budget Amendment for Sheriff's Office Body Camera Program Grant
- Resolution Authorizing Upset Bid Process
- Sheriff's Office Viper Radio Financing Proposals
- Untimely Present-Use Value Application approval
The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a $24,035 budget amendment funded by a state grant to purchase 23 body cameras for the Sheriff's Office. They also approved a resolution authorizing an upset bid process for land adjacent to the landfill, accepted a 5-year financing proposal from First National Bank at 2.01% for 35 viper radios, and denied an untimely Present-Use Value application. The Whistleblower Policy was discussed but sent back to the Personnel Policy Committee for amendments.
- Approved $24,035 budget amendment for body camera grant (4-0)
- Approved resolution authorizing upset bid process for landfill-adjacent land (4-0)
- Accepted First National Bank 5-year financing at 2.01% for 35 viper radios (4-0)
- Denied untimely Present-Use Value application from Kelly London and Brandon Miller (4-0)
- Approved August 17, 2020 regular session minutes (4-0)
- Adopted agenda as presented (4-0)
- Tabled Whistleblower Policy amendments for Personnel Policy Committee review
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will consider an amendment to the Coronavirus Relief Fund Plan and County Project Budget. The agenda includes presentations on the Community Paramedic Program, DSS statistics, and tax reports. Additionally, the commission will review an airport hangar lease extension request and planning board appointments.
- Amendment to Coronavirus Relief Fund Plan and County Project Budget
- Adoption of Whistleblower Policy
- Airport Hangar Lease Extension Request for Bob Clifton
- West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board Appointments
- Monthly DSS Departmental Update
The Board approved an amendment to the Coronavirus Relief Fund Plan and Grant Project Ordinance. The commission also approved the July 2020 monthly tax report and made two appointments to the West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board.
- Approved Coronavirus Relief Fund Plan amendment and Grant Project Ordinance (5-0)
- Approved July 2020 Monthly Tax Report (5-0)
- Appointed Phyllis Hartzog to West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board (5-0)
- Appointed Vic Gammons as alternate for West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board (5-0)
- Approved August 3, 2020 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)
- Referred Whistleblower Policy to Policy Committee for review
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding property acquisition on Ray Taylor Road. The agenda includes consideration of software purchases, capital expense requests, and budget revisions for Ashe Services for Aging. Commissioners will also receive updates on COVID-19 and airport hangar leases.
- Public hearing for property acquisition on Ray Taylor Road
- Consideration of Traverse Software purchase
- Approval requests for capital expenses
- Budget approvals for HCCBG and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
- Airport hangar lease extension request for Bob Clifton
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of property off Ray Taylor Road for $950,000 to be used for an industrial park, with funding from the county, a SkyBest/SkyLine loan, and an ACJD loan. The board also approved a $77,000-per-year, three-year contract for Traverse software for the Department of Social Services, funded through COVID-19 funds. Several budget revisions and approvals were made for Ashe Services for Aging, including the FY2019-20 HCCBG revision, FY2020-21 HCCBG budget, and a Families First Coronavirus Response Act budget of $27,862. Appointments were made to the Library Board and Wilkes Community College Board of Trustees.
- Approved purchase of Ray Taylor Road property (PIN 192227-079) for $950,000 (5-0)
- Approved Traverse software purchase for DSS at $77,000/year for 3 years (5-0)
- Approved FY2019-20 HCCBG budget revision (5-0)
- Approved FY2020-21 HCCBG budget (5-0)
- Approved Families First Coronavirus Response Act budget of $27,862 (5-0)
- Appointed Kim Barnes and Jacquelyn Isner to Library Board, Jan Knoffsinger to Regional Board (5-0)
- Appointed Kelly Vannoy to Wilkes Community College Board of Trustees (5-0)
- Approved minutes for July 20 and July 27 sessions (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (12 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The County Commission approved a resolution to apply for approximately $750,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. The funds are intended for the Neighborhood Revitalization Program to rehabilitate or replace four to seven low-income households.
- Approved resolution to apply for approximately $750,000 in CDBG funds (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will consider several departmental updates and funding requests. Items include a Traverse software purchase for DSS, a COPS grant approval request from the Sheriff, and CDBG funding for the Neighborhood Revitalization Project. The commission will also address land purchase considerations and board appointments.
- Consideration of Traverse software purchase for DSS
- COPS Grant Approval Request from Sheriff Howell
- CDBG funding for the Ashe County Neighborhood Revitalization Project
- Land Purchase & Upset Bid Process consideration
- Planning Board and Airport Advisory Board appointments
The Board approved a federal COPS grant to hire four additional officers and authorized the sale of three lots near the landfill via an upset bid process. Other actions included approving the 2019 Tax Collector Settlement Report and appointing members to the Planning and Airport Advisory boards.
- Approved COPS Grant for four additional officers with 25% County match (5-0)
- Approved upset bid process for three lots (.327 acres) adjacent to landfill (5-0)
- Approved FY2020-21 Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Plan (5-0)
- Approved 2019 Tax Collector Settlement Report (5-0)
- Charged Tax Administrator Chris Lambert with 2020 property tax collections (5-0)
- Approved DSS Energy Programs Outreach Plan (5-0)
- Appointed Derek Calhoun, William Carter, and David Phipps, Jr. to Planning Board (5-0)
- Appointed Ronnie Taylor to Airport Advisory Board (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will hold a public hearing regarding an application for 2020 Community Development Block Grant funds to rehabilitate low-income households in Ashe County. The agenda also includes a presentation on the WIOA/NC Works Career Center lease renewal at Family Central.
- Public hearing for 2020 Community Development Block Grant funds
- WIOA/NC Works Career Center lease renewal at Family Central
- Approval of June 2020 meeting minutes
- Executive session regarding economic development issues
The County Commission approved an application for 2020 Community Development Block Grant funds to assist low-income households with home repairs or replacement. The board also approved a lease renewal for the WIOA/NC Works Career Center.
- Approved application for 2020 Community Development Block Grant funds for low-income household rehabilitation (4-0)
- Approved WIOA/NC Works Career Center lease renewal at Family Central (4-0)
- Approved June 1, 2, and 15, 2020 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Entered Executive Session for economic development issues; no action taken (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will hold public hearings regarding the proposed FY2020-2021 County Budget and the Economic Development Budget. The agenda also includes discussions on CARES Act funding, lease renewals, and departmental updates.
- Public hearing for the FY2020-2021 County Budget
- Public hearing for the FY2020-2021 Economic Development Budget
- Resolutions for the Wilkes Community College installment financing contract
- Mount Jefferson Child Development Center lease renewal and request for forgiveness of three lease payments
- CARES Act Funding Grant Project Ordinance
The Board approved the FY2020-2021 County Budget and Economic Development Budget. The commission also authorized financing for a Wilkes Community College project and approved several grants and leases.
- Approved FY2020-2021 budget of $52,998,192 with tax rate at 44.3 cents (5-0)
- Approved FY2020-2021 Economic Development Budget (5-0)
- Approved resolutions for Wilkes Community College Installment Financing Contract (5-0)
- Approved CARES Act Funding Grant Project Ordinance for $692,000 (5-0)
- Approved 18-month repayment plan for Mount Jefferson Child Development Center past due rent (4-1)
- Approved selection of Moseley Architects for DSS & Health Department building assessment (5-0)
- Approved Airport Obstruction Grant for tree clearing (5-0)
- Appointed Wesley Barker as Floodplain and Watershed Administrator (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission held a budget work session and made several amendments to the proposed FY2020-21 budget. They removed funds from various departments, including the library, elections, public buildings, DSS, economic development, parks and recreation, and the airport, while adding $50,000 for Ashe Services for Aging and approving additional patrol vehicles for the Sheriff's Office. No final budget vote was taken; the session was for discussion and amendments.
- Removed $43,430 from Library for new payscale (year 3 of 3)
- Removed $1,500 from Elections Postage Expense
- Left Tax Administration vacant position unfilled until after Q2 budget reevaluation
- Removed $28,200 from Public Buildings for Courthouse key fob system
- Removed $38,200 from DSS Maintenance & Repair for key fob system; no new DSS position
- Removed $45,000 from Economic Development Advertising & Marketing
- Removed $15,000 from Parks & Recreation bottom line
- Removed $28,200 from Airport Maintenance & Repair for hangar doors and well pump; added $50,000 to Ashe Services for Aging; approved 2 additional patrol vehicles using Drug Forfeiture funds
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission held a budget work session on June 1, 2020, to review the upcoming fiscal year budget. The board made only two changes: reducing the Elections postage expense line item to $5,000 and removing $43,430 from the Appalachian Regional Library line item to not fund library staff pay increases. All other budget items were discussed but no changes were made, with several requests (e.g., Sheriff's vehicles and staff, additional ambulance) deferred due to COVID-19 uncertainties.
- Reduced Elections postage expense line item to $5,000
- Removed $43,430 from Appalachian Regional Library line item to not fund library staff pay increases
- No changes made to Sheriff's budget request for vehicles and staff
- No changes made to Ashe Medics request for additional ambulance
- No changes made to Airport budget for hangar doors and well pump
- No changes made to Parks & Recreation capital outlay for master plan
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hear presentations regarding a CARES Act plan for state submission and a COVID-19 update. The agenda also includes lease presentations at Family Central.
- CARES Act Plan for Submission to the State
- Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center Lease at Family Central
- Jodi Province Lease at Family Central
- COVID-19 Update from Emergency Management Coordinator
The Board approved a plan to distribute $692,602 in federal CARES Act funding to towns, non-profits, and health and educational partners. The Commission also approved a lease renewal for Jodi Province Counseling Services. A request to forgive lease payments for the Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center was tabled.
- Approved CARES Act Plan for submission to the State (5-0)
- Approved lease renewal for Jodi Province Counseling Services at Family Central (5-0)
- Tabled request to forgive three months of lease payments for Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center until June 15, 2020 (5-0)
- Approved May 18, 2020 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will receive a presentation on the FY2020-21 budget and schedule a public hearing for it. Other presentations include an economic impact analysis for Ashe Industrial Park and updates regarding CARES Act funding.
- FY2020-21 budget presentation and scheduling of public hearing
- Ashe Industrial Park economic impact analysis
- DSS records retention and disposition schedule approval
- CARES Act funding information
- Wilkes Community College financing project update
The Board scheduled a public hearing for the FY2020-21 budget and approved the April 2020 Tax Report. The Commission also approved the records retention schedule for County Social Services Agencies.
- Approved May 4, 2020 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)
- Approved County Social Services Agencies Records Retention and Disposition Schedule (5-0)
- Approved April 2020 Tax Report (5-0)
- Scheduled FY2020/21 Budget Public Hearing for June 15, 2020 at 9:05 a.m. (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will hear an update on COVID-19 in Ashe County and hold a discussion regarding short-term rentals. The agenda also includes a request to reclassify a DSS position and the approval of an audit contract. Additionally, the body will review a site maintenance agreement for the Baldwin Convenience Center.
- DSS position reclassification request
- Approval of Audit Contract 06-30-20
- Resolution appointing Wesley Barker as Plat Review Officer
- Short-term rental discussion
- Baldwin Convenience Center Site Maintenance Agreement
The Ashe County Commission met via teleconference due to COVID-19 restrictions and approved all agenda items unanimously. Key approvals included a DSS position reclassification, the June 30, 2020 audit contract, a resolution appointing Wesley Barker as Plat Review Officer, and a maintenance agreement with NCDOT for the Baldwin Convenience Center. The board also discussed the upcoming expiration of the short-term rental ban but took no action on it.
- Approved April 20, 2020 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda with no changes (5-0)
- Approved DSS position reclassification reducing salary by $635.75/month (5-0)
- Approved June 30, 2020 audit contract at $44,700 plus $2,400 for new census/payroll engagement (5-0)
- Approved resolution appointing Wesley Barker as Plat Review Officer (5-0)
- Approved Baldwin Convenience Center maintenance agreement with NCDOT (5-0)
- Adjourned at 10:10 a.m. (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will review monthly reports from the DSS Director and Tax Administrator. The agenda includes a request to move funds for Sheriff's Office radios and a booking control panel replacement. Commissioners will also consider mowing bids for county facilities.
- Request to move budget funds for Viper Radios and a Booking Control Panel replacement
- Approval of mowing bids for County Facilities
- Designation of Ashe Services for Aging as Lead Agency for the H&CCBG County Funding Plan
- Approval of Home & Community Care Block Grant Committee Membership for 2020-2021
- Information regarding State of Emergency Orders and emergency bonus leave
The Ashe County Commission met remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions and unanimously approved an $80,000 appropriation from contingency funds for emergency COVID-19 response. The board also approved the March minutes, the tax report, and several other items, including designating Ashe Services for Aging as lead agency for a block grant. A request to move sheriff's office funds for radios was deferred for further discussion.
- Approved $80,000 from Contingency Fund for COVID-19 response (5-0)
- Approved March 16, 2020 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda with added COVID-19 funding item (5-0)
- Approved March 2020 monthly tax report (5-0)
- Approved Ashe Services for Aging as H&CCBG lead agency (5-0)
- Approved H&CCBG committee membership for 2020-2021 (5-0)
- Authorized county manager to accept WCC financing proposal (5-0)
- Deferred sheriff's request to move $29,000 for radios and booking panel
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will receive a COVID-19 update from the District Health Director and discuss coronavirus response in executive session. The agenda also includes second readings for solid waste franchise requests and a USDA loan application for rural economic development funds.
- Second reading of solid waste franchise requests for High Country Home Services and Steadfast Property Services
- USDA Loan Application for Rural Economic Development Funds
- Approval of Ashe Opportunities lease at Family Central
- Budget amendments presented by the Finance Officer
- Appointments to the Airport Advisory Board and High Country Workforce Development Board
The Board approved second readings for two solid waste franchises and authorized a USDA loan application for rural economic development. Several budget increases were approved for law enforcement, social services, human services, legal, and fire departments. The Commission also waived a $1,561 lease balance for Moving Mountains.
- Approved second reading of solid waste franchise for High Country Home Services (4-0)
- Approved second reading of solid waste franchise for Steadfast Property Services (4-0)
- Approved Blue Ridge Energy application for Rural Economic Development grant (4-0)
- Approved February 2020 Monthly Tax Report (4-0)
- Denied untimely Present Use Value Application #2 (4-0)
- Approved 2020 Board of Equalization & Review meeting dates (4-0)
- Waived $1,561 lease balance for Moving Mountains (4-0)
- Approved budget amendments increasing Law Enforcement by $50k, Legal by $125k, and Environmental Services by $747,547 (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will conduct first readings for solid waste franchise requests from High Country Home Services and Steadfast Property Services. The agenda also includes a memorandum of understanding for the Ashe County CIS Afterschool Program and information on a Blue Ridge Energy loan application.
- First reading of solid waste franchise requests for High Country Home Services and Steadfast Property Services
- Memorandum of Understanding for the Ashe County CIS Afterschool Program
- Information regarding a Blue Ridge Energy loan application
- Approval of an untimely Present Use Value Application
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved first readings of solid waste franchises for High Country Home Services and Steadfast Property Services, with second readings scheduled for March 16, 2020. A request to allow untimely Present Use Value applications failed in a 2-2 vote. The board tabled action on the Ashe County CIS Afterschool Program MOU and approved prior meeting minutes and the agenda.
- Approved first reading of solid waste franchise for High Country Home Services (4-0)
- Approved first reading of solid waste franchise for Steadfast Property Services (4-0)
- Denied untimely Present Use Value application (2-2)
- Tabled action on Ashe County CIS Afterschool Program MOU (4-0)
- Approved February 3, 2020 Special Meeting Minutes (4-0)
- Approved February 17, 2020 Regular Session Minutes (4-0)
- Approved February 17, 2020 Executive Session Minutes (4-0)
- Adopted agenda with addition of Blue Ridge Energy Loan presentation (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the appropriation of funds for engineering services to develop an industrial park. The meeting also includes departmental reports from health, DSS, and tax administration, as well as an audit presentation.
- Public hearing on funding for industrial park engineering services
- Presentation of the June 30, 2019 audit
- Request to change pay step/grade for a Sheriff's Office employee
- Approval of unappropriated grant funds for law enforcement
- Approval to advertise tax liens
The Board approved $48,000 for engineering services for the proposed Ashe Industrial Park and $10,000 in grant funds for law enforcement body cameras. The Commission also approved the June 30, 2019 audit and a feasibility study for a proposed Agricultural and Event Center.
- Appropriated $48,000 for Ashe Industrial Park engineering services (5-0)
- Approved January 2020 Tax Report (5-0)
- Authorized advertisement of delinquent tax liens (5-0)
- Approved payroll step change for employee Joe Francis (5-0)
- Approved June 30, 2019 County Audit (5-0)
- Approved Magellan Strategy Group proposal for Agricultural and Event Center feasibility study (5-0)
- Appropriated $10,000 in grant funds for law enforcement body cameras (5-0)
- Appointed Bailey Little and Jeff Dryer to the Local Emergency Planning Committee (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This was a special session roundtable meeting between county commissioners and representatives from West Jefferson, Jefferson, and Lansing. The meeting focused on sharing updates on ongoing projects like the new convenience center, middle school, and Wilkes Community College expansion. No new ordinances, budgets, or contracts were voted on during this session; the only formal action was a unanimous vote to adjourn the meeting.
- Meeting adjourned at 3:05 p.m. (5-0 unanimous vote)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The commission will review a request to purchase property for the Highway 163 Convenience Center site. The agenda also includes a second reading for a solid waste franchise renewal and requests regarding volunteer awards and communications center furniture.
- Highway 163 Convenience Center Site property purchase
- M&J Disposals Solid Waste Franchise Renewal second reading
- Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony request
- Communications Center furniture purchase request
- Library Board appointment
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will consider a resolution declaring the county a Second Amendment Sanctuary and hear public comments. The agenda also includes a first reading for the M & J Disposals solid waste franchise renewal and several advisory board appointments. Departmental updates from DSS, the Tax Administrator, and the Chamber of Commerce are scheduled.
- Resolution declaring Ashe County a Second Amendment Sanctuary
- First reading of M & J Disposals solid waste franchise renewal
- Approval of Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission grant applications
- Parks & Recreation Advisory Board reappointments
- Farmland Preservation Advisory Board appointments
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will conduct a second reading of the Pond Mountain Ambulance Service Franchise Ordinance. The agenda also includes reviewing a Boundary Lien Agreement and approving a Rural Operating Assistance Program application. A work session is scheduled regarding property acquisition for an industrial park site.
- Second reading of Pond Mountain Ambulance Service Franchise Ordinance
- Review of Boundary Lien Agreement
- Approval of Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) Application
- Resolution for the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment
- Work session on property acquisition for an industrial park site
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved moving forward with the industrial park property purchase, including submitting a rezoning application and amending the contract to shorten the due diligence period. They also approved several routine items: minutes, agenda, an ambulance franchise ordinance, a boundary line agreement, and a transportation funding application.
- Approved December 16, 2019 regular and executive session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda as written (5-0)
- Approved Pond Mountain Ambulance Franchise Ordinance second reading (5-0)
- Approved boundary line agreement with Christian Moreno for Old Jefferson School property (5-0)
- Approved FY2020/21 ROAP application for $150,209.88 in transportation funding (5-0)
- Adopted resolution honoring 100th anniversary of 19th Amendment (5-0)
- Approved moving forward with industrial park purchase: seller to submit rezoning application, contract amended to shorten due diligence to Jan 7, 2020 (5-0)