Ashe County public meetings in 2024

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will consider several items, including a resolution to remove the appointed Plat Review Officer, a reappointment to the Northwestern Regional Housing Authority, a DSS budget amendment for essential services, a grant for ACSO body cameras, and the approval of contract amendments for the county middle school. These items are on the agenda for the December 16 meeting.

• Resolution Removing Appointed Plat Review Officer (RES 24-7)
• Reappointment of Jak Reeves to the Northwestern Regional Housing Authority (APP 24-15)
• DSS Budget Amendment – Essential Services Funding (PRES 24-211)
• ACSO Body Camera Grant presentation (PRES 24-207)
• Approval of Middle School Contract Amendments (PRES 24-210)

The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a contract change order for the Ashe County Middle School, keeping the project within its $96 million budget. The board also approved a $155,211 DSS budget increase, an $80,000 body camera grant for the Sheriff's Office, and a $24,000 funding request for the Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved middle school contract change order (5-0)
• Approved $155,211 DSS budget amendment for essential services (5-0)
• Approved $80,000 body camera grant for Sheriff's Office (5-0)
• Approved up to $24,000 for Lost Province Center repairs (5-0)
• Approved FY 2023/24 audit (5-0)
• Approved Local Government Delegation of Authority Guide (5-0)
• Approved implementation of G.S. 143-805 for government network use (5-0)
• Approved November 2024 tax report (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Board of Commissioners will conduct organizational business, including electing a chairman and vice‑chairman, appointing the county attorney and clerk, and adopting rules of procedure and a code of ethics. A key agenda item is the setting of bonds for the sheriff, register of deeds, tax administrator and finance officer. The meeting also includes presentations and a public comment period before adjourning.

• Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
• Setting of the Bonds for Sheriff, Register of Deeds, Tax Administrator and Finance Officer
• Appointing County Attorney and County Clerk
• Adoption of Rules of Procedure
• Adoption of Code of Ethics

The Ashe County Board of Commissioners held their organizational meeting, which included swearing in newly elected and re-elected commissioners and electing leadership positions. The board also set official bonds, reappointed staff, adopted rules and ethics codes, and approved committee appointments and child fatality prevention team members.

• Swore in Commissioners Wes Greene, Russell Killen, and Jerry Powers (Unanimous)
• Elected Todd McNeill as Chairman and Jerry Powers as Vice Chairman (Unanimous)
• Set bonds for Sheriff, Register of Deeds, Tax Administrator, and Finance Officer (Unanimous)
• Reappointed John Kilby as County Attorney and Missy Seivers as County Clerk (Unanimous)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure (Unanimous)
• Adopted Code of Ethics as amended (Unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Robin Neithery, Megan Hudson, and Ashley Powers to the Child Fatality Prevention Team (Unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:27 am (Unanimous)

County Commission

The County Commission will meet to review the October 2024 tax report and approve appointments to the Airport Advisory Board. The session includes formal recognition of outgoing board members and the retirement of Economic Development Director Cathy Barr.

• Reappointments of Jeff Badger, Tom Bregger, and Joey Parsons to the Airport Advisory Board
• Review of October 2024 Monthly Tax Report
• Retirement recognition of Cathy Barr, Director of Economic Development

The Ashe County Commission held an old business session to swear in newly elected officials and approve the consent agenda. The board also recognized outgoing commissioners William Sands and Chuck Olive for their service. A retirement recognition for the Director of Economic Development was postponed until December 16, 2024.

• Swore in Clerk of Courts Sherman Lee and School Board members Teresa Calhoun and Josh Roten
• Adopted consent agenda (5-0)
• Adopted December 2, 2024 meeting agenda (5-0)
• Postponed retirement recognition for Cathy Barr until December 16, 2024
• Adjourned old business session (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will hold public hearings regarding an installment financing contract for the middle school and the closeout of CDBG-NR Grant 19-C-3123. The body will also review DSS statistics and a request to modify a staff position.

• Public hearing on installment financing contract for the middle school
• Public hearing on CDBG-NR Grant 19-C-3123 closeout
• Request to modify DSS position 5310-317-21
• Executive session regarding the purchase of real property
• Update on Florence Thomas Art School

The commission unanimously approved a resolution authorizing an installment financing contract for the Middle School project, along with the closeout of a CDBG-NR grant and a request to modify a DSS position. Public comment raised concerns about debris dumping at the new AG Center site. The board also held an executive session on real property purchase and received updates on storm debris removal.

• Approved resolution for installment financing contract for Middle School (5-0)
• Approved CDBG-NR Grant 19-C-3123 closeout (5-0)
• Approved modification of DSS Position 5310-317-21 from temporary SW IAT to permanent SWS II (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with addition of Personnel executive session item (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (5-0)
• Held executive session for real property purchase (G.S.143-318.11(5))

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will hear presentations on veterans services, grant funding, and community projects, including a request for $25,000 for Lansing Family Health & Wellness and a resolution for a proposed middle school.

• Reappointment of Zeb Gambill to West Jefferson ETJ Board
• Presentation on Lansing Family Health & Wellness funding request
• Acceptance of $25,000 grant from Cumberland Community Foundation
• Resolution for Proposed Middle School funding
• Proclamations for Adoption Awareness Month and National American Indian Heritage Month

The commission unanimously approved a funding resolution for the proposed Ashe Middle School, setting a not-to-exceed financing amount of $47 million and scheduling a public hearing for November 18. The resolution is a preliminary step to allow bids to be considered, though the county manager noted it does not require spending beyond the previously approved $96 million. The board also approved trail names for Paddy Mountain Park and several proclamations, but took no action on funding requests from the Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts and Lansing Family Health & Wellness, asking for written requests with budgets.

• Approved funding resolution for proposed middle school, setting not-to-exceed financing at $47M and public hearing for Nov 18 (5-0)
• Approved trail names for Paddy Mountain Park: Northern Peak State Trail, Shagbark Hickory Loop, and Cohosh Loop (5-0)
• Adopted Adoption Awareness Month Proclamation (5-0)
• Approved resolution recognizing Ashe County Official America 250 NC Committee (5-0)
• Adopted National American Indian Heritage Month Proclamation (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and reappointment of Zeb Gambill to West Jefferson ETJ Board (5-0)
• Adopted agenda for Nov 4, 2024 (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will review and act on several items, including a request to authorize the tax collector to write off delinquent 2014 tax bills under NCGS‑373(g) and NCGS‑105‑378(a). The meeting also includes a monthly tax report for September 2024 that requires action, and presentations on Hurricane Helene updates, DSS statistics, employee sick‑leave reinstatement, and a Golden LEAF Shell Building award agreement. Standard consent agenda items such as minutes from recent regular and emergency sessions will be approved.

• Request to authorize tax collector to write‑off 2014 delinquent tax bills (PRES 24‑169)
• Monthly Tax Report, September 2024 – action required (PRES 24‑168)
• Golden LEAF Shell Building Award Agreement presentation (PRES 24‑174)
• Sick Leave & Longevity Reinstatement request for employee (PRES 24‑171)
• Printing cost quote for Individual Personal Property Listing Forms (PRES 24‑172)

The Ashe County Commission unanimously accepted a $1.425 million Golden LEAF grant for the Industrial Park shell building and approved funding the remaining project gap up to $70,000. The board also approved several other items, including reinstating sick leave and longevity for a rehired sheriff's officer, funding a countywide mailing of personal property listing forms, and reclassifying the Economic Development position to pay-grade 121. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Accepted $1.425M Golden LEAF grant and approved up to $70,000 gap funding for Industrial Park shell building (5-0)
• Approved additional funding for mailing individual personal property listing forms countywide (5-0)
• Reinstated sick leave and longevity for rehired officer James McNeill (5-0)
• Reclassified Economic Development position to pay-grade 121 and authorized advertising (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax write-offs and September tax report (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with Hurricane Helene update moved to end (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will receive updates on emergency operations, elections, and a Golden Leaf Shell Building grant. The County Manager will present actions taken during previous emergency meetings. One item regarding the Emergency Operations Plan Approval was postponed.

• Emergency Operations Update from Patty Gambill
• Presentation of actions taken during emergency meetings by Adam Stumb
• Elections update from Devon Houck
• Golden Leaf Shell Building Grant update
• Personnel executive session (G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6))

The Ashe County Commission met and heard updates on Hurricane Helene recovery, elections, and a Golden Leaf grant, but took no substantive action beyond approving the consent agenda and entering executive session. The emergency management coordinator reported one confirmed fatality, 151 destroyed structures, and 3,226 households without power. The board previously approved a debris removal contract and equipment rental during emergency sessions, which were reported but not voted on at this meeting.

• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Entered executive session for personnel (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission is meeting to review Hurricane Helene Emergency Operations. The body will determine if any necessary actions are required regarding these operations.

• Review of Hurricane Helene Emergency Operations (PRES 24-162)

The Commission met to review Hurricane Helene emergency operations and adjust recovery efforts. They authorized changing the scope of a previously approved debris removal contract to include removal, chipping, and hauling. Additionally, the Board voted to waive safety inspection fees for occupied structures that had power as of September 27th.

• Changed debris removal contract scope to 'Remove, Chip, and Haul' (up to $2M)
• Waived safety inspection fees for qualified occupied structures (4-0)
• Designated Sept. 27 as a holiday for county employees
• Confirmed Sept. 30 as a regular workday for county employees

County Commission

The County Commission will hold an emergency meeting to review Hurricane Helene Emergency Operations and take related action. The meeting is scheduled for 11:00 AM on October 2, 2024, at the Ashe County Courthouse.

• Emergency meeting called to review Hurricane Helene Emergency Operations
• PRES 24-161: Review of emergency operations
• Executive Session scheduled
• Meeting location: Ashe County Courthouse, 150 Government Circle, Jefferson, NC 28640

At an emergency meeting, the Ashe County Commission reviewed Hurricane Helene recovery operations and unanimously approved a notice-to-proceed for a pre-positioned contractor to clear roadside debris, with costs not to exceed $2 million and reimbursable by FEMA. The board also directed staff to rent heavy equipment for the landfill debris staging area and to continue convenience center operations with monitored roll-offs at the damaged Riverview site. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and operational.

• Approved notice-to-proceed for pre-positioned contractor to clear road debris, not to exceed $2M (unanimous)
• Directed staff to rent track hoe excavator and loader for landfill debris staging (~$20,000/month)
• Approved plan to keep two monitored roll-offs at Riverview convenience site with attendant
• Directed department heads to limit purchases to regular and storm-related operations to avoid cash flow issues

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission held an emergency meeting on September 30, 2024. The agenda item is to discuss entering a contract with Pictometry International for Eagleview to re‑fly county maps within 24 hours. The updated maps will be used for damage assessment caused by Hurricane Helene. The meeting also includes commissioner comments, announcements, and an executive session.

• Discuss contract with Pictometry International for Eagleview mapping
• Re‑fly county maps within 24 hours for Hurricane Helene damage assessment
• Emergency meeting called to address immediate mapping needs

The Ashe County Commission held an emergency meeting to approve a $54,600 contract with Pictometry International (Eagleview) to re-fly county maps for damage assessment after Hurricane Helene. The contract was approved unanimously, with funds appropriated from the county's Contingency Fund. The board also scheduled special meetings on October 2 and 4 to review information and address emergency matters.

• Approved $54,600 contract with Eagleview for aerial mapping (3-0)
• Appropriated funds from Contingency Fund for the contract (3-0)
• Scheduled special meetings for Oct 2 and Oct 4 at 11:00 a.m. (3-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will hear franchise applications from First Sanitation Services and Dominick's Dumpsters. The meeting includes a work session regarding the Landfill Expansion and Environmental Services Building. Other items include a law enforcement budget amendment and DSS statistics for July 2024.

• Franchise application from First Sanitation Services
• Franchise application from Dominick's Dumpsters
• Law enforcement budget amendment
• Work session on Landfill Expansion and Environmental Services Building
• DSS statistics for July 2024

The Ashe County Commission approved proceeding with the Phase 3 expansion of the county landfill and advertising a new RFQ for construction of the Environmental Services building. The board also approved franchises for two sanitation companies, a law enforcement budget amendment, and several facility use requests. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Phase 3 landfill expansion and new RFQ for Environmental Services building (5-0)
• Approved franchise for First Sanitation Services on second reading (5-0)
• Approved franchise for Dominick's Dumpsters on second reading (5-0)
• Approved law enforcement budget increase of $11,732 from drug fund (5-0)
• Approved Museum of Ashe County History use of vacant lot for parking (5-0)
• Approved facility use for Farm Bureau Candidate Forum and Down Home NC Town Hall (5-0)
• Approved ROAP Program Administration Guide for transportation authority (5-0)
• Adopted Smart Start Month Proclamation (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission meets to approve minutes from the August 19 session, including reappointments to the West Jefferson EJT Planning Board. They also hear presentations on franchise applications for waste services and an RFQ for HVAC design at the courthouse.

• Approval of August 19 minutes (MIN 24-19)
• Reappointments to West Jefferson EJT Planning Board (APP 24-12)
• First meeting for franchise applications: First Sanitation Services (FRAN 24-1) and Dominick's Dumpsters (FRAN 24-2)
• Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for HVAC design and construction at the courthouse (PRES 24-153)
• Update policy on trash decal replacement (MISC 24-24)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting to adopt minutes, approve tax collector settlements for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, and hear presentations on budget amendments for emergency services, DSS programs, and grant policies. The meeting includes public comment and commissioner presentations.

• Approval of July 2024 monthly tax report
• Approval of Tax Collector settlement for FY 2023-2024
• Approval of Tax Collector charge for FY 2024-2025
• Adoption of 2025 Ashe County holiday schedule
• Formal acceptance of NCEM capacity-building grant with budget amendment

The Board of Commissioners approved budget increases for Social Services and accepted an emergency management grant. The commission also authorized the 2024-2025 tax collector charge and decided to seek new engineering bids for the courthouse HVAC redesign.

• Approved DSS budget increase from $10,769,345 to $10,905,090 (5-0)
• Approved Tax Collector Settlement for FY 2023-2024 (5-0)
• Approved Tax Collector Charge for FY 2024-2025 (5-0)
• Denied an Untimely Application for property tax exemption (5-0)
• Approved NCEM Capacity Building Competitive Grant and budget amendment (5-0)
• Approved advertising a new RFQ for courthouse HVAC redesign engineers (5-0)
• Approved expansion of BROC housing assistance in Ashe County (5-0)
• Approved August 5th, 2024 meeting minutes and 2025 holiday schedule (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will review a resolution and contract to direct the expenditure of Opioid Settlement funds to AppHealth Care. The meeting also includes a presentation on a budget revision for the Home and Community Care Block Grant and a contract for Middle School GMP #1. A work session on childcare is scheduled separately in the second-floor conference room.

• Resolution to Direct Expenditure of Opioid Settlement Funds (PRES 24-135)
• Contract Between Ashe County and AppHealth Care for Opioid Settlement Expenditures (PRES 24-137)
• Middle School Contracts GMP #1 (PRES 24-138)
• Home and Community Care Block Grant Budget Revision for FY 2023-2024 (PRES 24-128)
• Reappointment of Ashley Powers, Juvenile Court Counselor (JCP APP 24-10)

The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a resolution directing opioid settlement funds to four projects totaling $567,710, including the Sheriff's Office medication-assisted treatment program, Western Youth Network mentoring, Hospitality House housing services, and AppHealthCare recovery support. The board also approved the construction manager contract for the new Ashe County Middle School with a total contract price of $1,408,504, and approved additional work at the Riverview Community Center costing $17,876. No action was taken on childcare center funding or other items discussed in the work session.

• Approved resolution directing $567,710 in opioid settlement funds to four projects (5-0)
• Approved contract with AppHealthCare for opioid settlement expenditures (5-0)
• Approved middle school construction contract with James R Vannoy & Son's Construction, total $1,408,504 (5-0)
• Approved $17,876 additional work at Riverview Community Center (5-0)
• Approved Home and Community Care Block Grant budget revision and FY 2024-2025 budget (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including July 15 minutes, tax report, and JCPC reappointment (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended with Blue Ridge Relay acknowledgment (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the county’s building regulations and airport height rules. The board will also hear updates from county departments, including social services, parks and recreation, and health services.

• Public hearing on proposed text amendments to Ashe County Code of Ordinances Title XV: Land Usage, CHAPTER 150: BUILDING REGULATIONS and CHAPTER 162: ASHE COUNTY AIRPORT (KGEV)
• Tracie McMillan, DSS Director, presents Highlights From Plan Workshops and DSS Statistics for May 2024
• Tracie McMillan, DSS Director, presents Energy Programs Outreach Plan
• Zack Shepherd, VAYA Health, provides VAYA Health Update
• Kevin Anderson, Parks & Rec Director, gives Update on Ashe Park Expansion Project

The Commission approved text amendments for the Ashe County Airport ordinance on first reading and adopted a federally funded Energy Programs Outreach Plan. The Board also authorized a recognition plaque and first-come, first-served access for the Ashe Park expansion shelter.

• Approved text amendments to Chapter 162: Ashe County Airport (KGEV) on first reading (4-0)
• Approved Energy Programs Outreach Plan (4-0)
• Approved plaque for Mrs. Margaret Neal at the new Ashe Park shelter
• Approved first-come, first-serve use for the new Ashe Park shelter
• Elected Vice Chairman Olive as voting delegate for NCACC Annual Conference (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Executive Session and Regular Session minutes (4-0)
• Approved reinstatement of leave accrual for rehires (4-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will consider adopting the 2024-2025 Job Classification Plan and Salary Schedule. The agenda includes discussions on solid waste ordinance changes and glass recycling updates. Commissioners will also hear presentations regarding the Northern Peaks Trail and food pantry funding.

• Adoption of 2024-2025 Job Classification Plan
• Adoption of 2024-2025 Salary Schedule
• Solid Waste Ordinance changes and violation letter
• Ashe Food Pantry funding amendment using American Recovery Plan funds
• Northern Peaks Trail project update

The Board approved several funding requests, including $40,000 for the Paddy Mountain Project and $100,000 for the Ashe Food Pantry. The Commission also voted to restart the glass recycling program and waive rent for the Children's Center of Northwest North Carolina for 12 months.

• Approved $24,995 purchase of Ground Penetrating Radar (5-0)
• Waived rent at Family Central for Children's Center of Northwest North Carolina for 12 months (5-0)
• Approved $40,000 for Paddy Mountain Project infrastructure (5-0)
• Approved wording changes to Chapter 50: Solid Waste Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved purchase of four glass recycling containers and program restart (5-0)
• Approved hiring a new building inspector with budget amendment for training overlap (5-0)
• Released remaining $100,000 in ARPA funds to Ashe Food Pantry (5-0)
• Adopted 2024-2025 Job Classification Plan and Salary Schedule (5-0)

County Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings regarding the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 and the Economic Development budget. Other business includes discussions on county leases, STIP projects, and audit contracts.

• Public hearing: Proposed Budget for FY 2024/2025
• Public hearing: Proposed Budget FY 2024/2025 for Economic Development
• Discussion of budget amendment for Medical Examiner
• Review of audit contract and engagement letter
• Discussion of county leases for Daymark, Family Central, Ashe Opportunities, VAYA, and HCCOG

The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the FY 2024/2025 budget ordinance totaling $80,568,714 with an ad valorem tax rate of 44 cents per $100 of assessed value. The board also approved contracts and a $4,500,000 project budget for the Ashe County Agricultural Center, joined the national Kroger opioid settlement, and approved multiple county leases and property agreements.

• Adopted Consent Agenda including June 3rd, 2024 Regular Session Minutes and May 2024 Monthly Tax Report (5-0)
• Approved FY 2024/2025 budget ordinance of $80,568,714 and ad valorem tax rate of .44 cents per $100 of assessed value (5-0)
• Approved Economic Development expenditures in the General Fund and Economic Development Reserve Fund (5-0)
• Approved budget amendment increasing Medical Examiner appropriation from $22,750 to $30,750 using contingency funds (5-0)
• Approved audit contract and engagement letter with Priscilla Norris, CPA for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved contracts and project budget of $4,500,000 for the Ashe County Agricultural Center (5-0)
• Approved opting into the national opioid litigation settlement with Kroger (5-0)
• Approved FY 2024/25 county leases for Daymark, Family Central, Ashe Opportunities, VAYA, and High Country Council of Governments (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will hold a budget work session for fiscal year 2024/25 on June 4, 2024. Commissioners will review funding allocations for county services that directly impact residents, including emergency dispatch, waste collection, public health, and parks. Presentations are scheduled from Health Director Jennifer Greene and Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Anderson. This agenda lists discussion topics only; no final budget votes or contract awards appear in the provided text.

• Budget work session for fiscal year 2024/25 covering county operations and special revenue funds
• Presentation from Health Director Jennifer Greene on health department funding
• Review of E911 Special Revenue Fund, dispatch operations, and coordinator staffing
• Presentations from Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Anderson on park services
• Funding review for environmental services (collection and disposal), law enforcement, corrections, education, and human service agencies

The Ashe County Commission held a budget work session on June 4, 2024, making several adjustments to the proposed FY2024/25 budget. The Education allocation increased from $7,477,830 to $7,540,788, a $62,958 increase for the Board of Education. The Industrial Park Phase #2 Project Ordinance was adopted unanimously after being tabled on June 3. Other changes included reducing capital outlay for the Environmental Services shop roof and Parks & Recreation architect design plans, and allocating $3,600 for Animal Control rifles and scopes. No changes were made to most departmental budgets.

• Adopted Industrial Park Phase #2 Project Ordinance (unanimous)
• Increased Education allocation from $7,477,830 to $7,540,788 (+$62,958)
• Reduced Environmental Services (Collection) capital outlay for new shop roof from $25,000 to $15,000
• Reduced Parks & Recreation capital outlay for architect design plans from $250,000 to $100,000
• Allocated $3,600 for Animal Control rifles & scopes (down from $4,500 request)
• Reclassified position 201-16 from Grade 104 to Grade 105 (unanimous)
• Decreased Human Services proposed budget from $1,873,222 to $1,859,475; placed $10,000 into Unallocated Human Services

County Commission

The County Commission is conducting a budget work session for the 2024/25 fiscal year. The meeting includes presentations from Social Services, Law Enforcement, and the Library.

• Social Services/DSS presentation
• Law Enforcement presentation
• Library presentation

During a budget work session for FY 2024/25, the Commission unanimously agreed to increase the library's allocation. An increase for ground penetrating radar equipment was also noted for Public Buildings. No changes were made to other departmental budgets discussed.

• Increased library allocation from $613,104 to $623,104 (unanimous)
• Increased Public Buildings Capitol Outlay/Equipment by $26,000 for Ground Penetrating Radar

County Commission

The Commission will review budget amendments and several project ordinances. Discussions include an update on the airport and upcoming budget work sessions scheduled through June 6.

• Industrial Park Phase #2 Project Ordinance
• NC Opioid Settlement Project Ordinance
• Airport Safety/Maintenance Projects Letter of Agreement
• Airport Lease Restructuring
• Budget Amendments presentation by Finance Officer Sandy Long

The Commission approved several budget increases for law enforcement, corrections, and parks and recreation. They also adopted a proclamation for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and approved a project ordinance for the NC Opioid Settlement on first reading.

• Approved budget amendments including $265,000 for Family Central ballfield lighting (5-0)
• Approved $90,000 and $1,496 increases for Law Enforcement (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 increase for Department of Corrections (5-0)
• Approved NC Opioid Settlement Project Ordinance on first reading (5-0)
• Approved Letter of Agreement for Airport Safety/Maintenance Projects (5-0)
• Approved reinstatement of 96.28 hours of sick leave for a DSS employee (5-0)
• Tabled Industrial Park Phase #2 Project Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved Ashe County Republican Party request for county grounds use (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will receive a presentation on the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. The agenda also includes updates on the Sun Bucks program and the county cleaning contract for 2024-25. Additionally, commissioners will consider appointments to the Volunteer Advisory Board.

• Presentation of the FY 2024-25 Annual Budget
• County Cleaning Contract 2024-25
• Proposed Home & Community Care Block Grant Committee Membership
• Volunteer Advisory Board appointments
• Proclamation for Older Americans Month

The Board approved the Ashe County Annual Plan 2024-25 and the county cleaning and mowing contracts for the upcoming fiscal year. Other actions included appointing a legislative representative for seniors and reinstating sick leave for a staff member. The proposed FY 2024-25 Annual Budget was presented, but no action was taken.

• Approved Ashe County Annual Plan 2024-25 (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation for Older American Month (5-0)
• Approved Home & Community Care Block Grant Committee memberships for 2024-25 (5-0)
• Approved Judy Davis as Senior Tarheel Legislative Representative (5-0)
• Approved FY 2024-25 County Cleaning and Mowing contracts (5-0)
• Approved reinstatement of sick leave for Joshua Carter (5-0)
• Approved three Volunteer Advisory Board appointments (5-0)
• Approved May 6th, 2024 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)

County Commission

The Ashe County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a pay and compensation study conducted by Evergreen Solutions LLC. The agenda also includes presentations on DSS budget amendments and a potential dental clinic property purchase.

• Pay and compensation study by Evergreen Solutions LLC
• Budget amendment for DSS Emergency Placement Funds
• Dental clinic property purchase
• Courthouse complex access card policy
• Medical Assistance Treatment (MAT) presentation

The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a $13,283 budget amendment for Emergency Placement Funds and a one-time exception allowing current employees to transfer unused sick leave from previous government jobs. They also approved changes to employee recognition awards, a new courthouse access card policy, and the sale of a dental clinic property. A proposed Medical Assistance Treatment program at the detention center was discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved $13,283 DSS budget amendment for Emergency Placement Funds (5-0)
• Approved one-time sick leave transfer exception for current employees (5-0)
• Approved changes to Employee Recognition/Years of Service awards (5-0)
• Approved Building Access Policy with 7:30 AM-5:30 PM access window (5-0)
• Approved continuation of Dental Clinic property sale (5-0)
• Approved compensation of $6,410.57 for retired Lt. Kelly Stephens (5-0)
• Discussed MAT program at Detention Center; no action taken
• Discussed Ashe Harvest Food Ministries donation request; referred to Finance Dept

County Commission

The Commission will hear presentations regarding the Mass Grading Project at the Ashe Industrial Park, the Amorem project, and a library fundraising campaign. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss budgets for the Sheriff's Department and Environmental Services Phase III.

• Bid Award: Mass Grading Project at Ashe Industrial Park
• Amorem Project update
• Buck for Books fundraising campaign
• Sheriff's Department Budget Update
• Environmental Services Budget Update - Phase III

The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a $697,570 contract with Double Mountain Construction for the Mass Grading Project at the Ashe Industrial Park. The meeting also included updates on a new hospice facility, library fundraising, and cemetery documentation, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $697,570 bid from Double Mountain Construction for Industrial Park mass grading (4-0)
• Adopted April 1, 2024 Regular Session Minutes (4-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda including tax reports and board appointments (4-0)
• Recessed for Executive Session at Ashe County Courthouse (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:57 pm (4-0)

County Commission

The commission will conduct a second reading of the EMS Franchise Ordinance. It will also consider a resolution authorizing an upset bid process for Westwood. Presentations are scheduled regarding child development and Ashe Bash 2024.

• Second reading of the EMS Franchise Ordinance (ORD 24-2)
• Resolution authorizing Westwood upset bid process (RES 24-3)
• Farmland Preservation Advisory Committee appointment
• Mount Jefferson Child Development Center update
• Ashe Bash 2024 presentation

The Board unanimously approved the EMS Franchise Ordinance on second reading. The Commission also authorized a budget amendment for economic development and approved funding for the Ashe Bash 2024 event.

• Adopted EMS Franchise Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved $5,000 from contingency fund and in-kind support for Ashe Bash 2024 (5-0)
• Approved budget amendment to increase Economic Development appropriation by $5,000 and Capital Reserve Fund by $40,000 via Golden LEAF grant (5-0)
• Approved transfer of Westwood property to the Board of Education (5-0)
• Approved hiring a new position in the Register of Deeds department (5-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda including March 4 and March 18 minutes (5-0)

County Commission

The Commission will review several presentations including an EMS franchise ordinance and a position reclassification for Department of Social Services. The meeting also includes recognition for retiring law enforcement members and various board re-appointments.

• Approval of the EMS Franchise Ordinance
• Proposal for transfer of Child Welfare Social Worker to Adult Services Social Worker
• FY 2022/23 Audit Presentation & Amended Contract Approval
• Re-appointments for Recreation Advisory Board, Emergency Planning Committee, Airport Advisory Board, and Long Term Care Joint Community Advisory Committee
• Resolution awarding badge and sidearm to retiring Detective David Upchurch

The Ashe County Commission approved converting a vacant Foster Care Social Worker IAT position to an Adult Services Social Worker III, saving $2,391 annually. They also approved the first reading of a six-year EMS Franchise Ordinance, adopted a resolution awarding a badge and sidearm to retiring Detective David Upchurch, and approved a $2,100 budget increase for volunteer awards. The March 4, 2024 minutes were tabled for correction, and no action was taken in executive session.

• Approved conversion of vacant Foster Care Social Worker IAT to Adult Services Social Worker III (5-0)
• Approved first reading of EMS Franchise Ordinance for six-year term (5-0)
• Adopted resolution awarding badge and sidearm to retiring Detective David Upchurch (5-0)
• Approved $2,100 budget increase for volunteer awards (5-0)
• Tabled March 4, 2024 minutes for correction (5-0)
• Approved remaining consent agenda items with removal of March 4 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Badges of Ashe car show use of courthouse parking lot on May 11 (5-0)
• Approved FY 2022/23 Audit (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will hear presentations regarding flood mitigation grants, courthouse renovations, and upcoming fiscal year budget requests. Other agenda items include a fair housing resolution, trash service franchise applications, and potential personnel policy changes.

• Tinkering Tim Trash Service application for franchise and landfill credit
• Request for insurance payout funds
• Sheriff's proposed vehicle donation
• Proposed Vehicle Use & Travel Policy changes
• Golden LEAF Flood Mitigation Program grant discussion

The Commission agreed to split the cost of middle school roof repairs 50/50 with the Board of Education up to $550,000. Other actions included approving a trash service franchise, donating two fleet vehicles, and applying for a Golden Leaf flood grant.

• Approved 50/50 cost-share with Board of Education for middle school roof repairs up to $550,000 (5-0)
• Approved franchise application for Tinkering Tim Trash Service (5-0)
• Approved moving insurance payout funds for vehicle and building repairs (5-0)
• Approved donation of 2014 Ford Edge to Ashe Memorial Hospital Company Police Department (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved donation of 2016 Ford Explorer to Lansing Fire Department (5-0)
• Adopted resolution proclaiming April 2024 as Fair Housing Month (5-0)
• Approved amended Personnel Policy regarding vehicle use, travel, and comp time (5-0)
• Approved application for Golden Leaf Flood Grant for courthouse stormwater issues (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission is holding a semi-annual roundtable meeting at the Wilkes Community College Ashe Campus. The agenda includes remarks, introductions of various officials, and project updates from the County Manager and several local entities.

• Project and update presentations by Adam Stumb
• Introductions involving Sen. Ralph Hise and Rep. Ray Picket

The County Commission and municipal leaders met for a roundtable discussion regarding regional projects. No substantive legislative decisions or votes were recorded other than the motion to adjourn.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commission

The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding updates to the Residential Subdivisions chapter of the county code. The agenda also includes a proposal for the courthouse HVAC system and health department change orders.

• Public hearing for Chapter 156: Residential Subdivisions ordinance update
• Proposal for Courthouse HVAC System
• Health Department change orders
• Franchise request for Tinkering Tim Trash Removal
• Appointment of Shannon Worley to New River Volunteer Fire & Rescue Relief Board

The Commission approved changes to the residential subdivisions ordinance on first reading and authorized the advertisement of 2023 delinquent real property taxes. The board also approved several personnel reclassifications and a plumbing change order for the Health Department.

• Approved residential subdivision ordinance changes on first reading (5-0)
• Approved monthly tax report (5-0)
• Approved advertisement of 2023 Delinquent Real Property Taxes (5-0)
• Approved reclassification of two DSS Social Worker positions (5-0)
• Approved $66,400 for Riverview Community Center river access and retaining wall for FY 24-25 budget consideration (5-0)
• Approved $10,371.15 Health Department change order for Pex piping (5-0)
• Denied Health Department change order for tile flooring
• Tabled Courthouse HVAC system proposal until March 4, 2024 (5-0)

County Commission

The Commission will hear presentations regarding Ashe County Middle School and park facility rental fees. Discussion includes a memorandum of understanding involving Mount Jefferson Child Development and Northwest Housing Enterprises, Inc., as well as the Vannoy contract.

• Ashe County Middle School presentation
• Park facility rental fees update
• MOU with Mount Jefferson Child Development and Northwest Housing Enterprises, Inc.
• Vannoy Contract

The Board authorized the next phase of the middle school project and approved a contract for Ag Center architectural drawings. The Commission also updated parks rental fees and accepted several private donations for park equipment.

• Approved $96M project budget and construction documents for new middle school (5-0)
• Approved $128,800 contract with Vannoy Construction for Ag Center plans (4-0)
• Approved updated Parks and Recreation facility rental fees and rules (5-0)
• Accepted $7,500 donation from Life Store Insurance Company for a scorer's table (5-0)
• Accepted $2,477 donation from AppHealth for a bike rack and repair station (5-0)
• Approved MOU with Mount Jefferson Child Development and Northwest Housing Enterprises (4-0)
• Denied request for an untimely tax application (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including letters of support for New River Marathon and Blue Ridge Relay (5-0)

County Commission

The County Commission will review several departmental reports including DSS statistics, emergency management mutual aid, and landfill updates. The meeting includes presentations on the Agricultural Center design proposal and a vehicle monitoring system.

• DSS Statistics Report for October & November 2023
• NC Emergency Management Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement
• Agricultural Center Design Proposal
• Trash Sticker/Landfill Update
• Vehicle Monitoring System quote # Q-926377

The Board approved conceptual plans for the Agricultural Center to allow for budget development. Other actions included approving a statewide mutual aid agreement and reclassifying a maintenance position. The Board decided against implementing a fleet-wide vehicle monitoring system due to annual costs.

• Approved conceptual plans for Agricultural Center (5-0)
• Approved NC Emergency Management Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement (5-0)
• Approved reclassification of Custodian to Maintenance & Grounds, changing salary grade from 58 to 60 (5-0)
• Approved request for CBDG-Mobile Home Grant extension (5-0)
• Denied implementation of Vehicle Monitoring System due to annual cost exceeding $70,000
• Approved December 18, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Recreation Advisory Board re-appointments (5-0)