Orange County public meetings in 2021

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board will meet virtually to approve minutes, hear program updates, and discuss changes to the HCV (Housing Choice Voucher) program. A key item is a proposed administrative plan change to allow exceptions to income limits for applicants experiencing chronic homelessness. The board will also receive updates on the PBV (Project-Based Voucher) program, a specialist vacancy, and other programmatic reports.

• Welcome of new board members Valerie Sauer, Dennis Carmody, and Alice Mahood
• Proposed exception to income limits for applicants experiencing chronic homelessness
• Update on Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program
• Landlord workshop update
• Annual report and workplan template discussion

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board approved the October and November meeting minutes and agreed to circulate its Advisory Board Action Plan for feedback. No substantive policy decisions were made; the board scheduled a full discussion on expanding voucher issuance to waitlist applicants for January.

• Approved October and November 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved circulating the Advisory Board Action Plan for feedback by email and phone (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to discuss affordable housing priorities. They will receive a presentation on HOME-ARP funding and provide feedback, develop the annual work plan and goals, and consider a resolution on homeless services gaps. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and updates on board vacancies.

• HOME-ARP presentation and feedback survey
• Goal setting and annual work plan development
• Discussion on resolution re OC homeless services gaps
• Board vacancy and recruitment update
• Approval of November 9, 2021 minutes

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board met virtually on December 14, 2021, but lacked quorum, so approval of the November minutes was postponed. The board received a presentation on $1.3 million in HOME-ARP funds for homelessness and affordable housing, discussed potential uses, and began developing its 2022 annual work plan, including goals related to racial equity and homeless services gaps. No formal votes or decisions were taken.

• Postponed approval of November 9, 2021 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum
• Reviewed HOME-ARP funding allocation of $1.3 million for Orange County
• Discussed 2022 goals including racial equity lens and homeless services gaps
• Volunteered to help draft a resolution on homeless service gaps for County Commissioners

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on two land-use items: a text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance to comply with state law decriminalizing certain violations, and amendments to the Future Land Use Map and Zoning Atlas for the Eno Economic Development District. The board will also consider allocating Round 2 of American Rescue Plan Act funds, approving several contracts and budget amendments, and recognizing the Cedar Ridge High School volleyball team for its state championship.

• Public hearing on UDO text amendment to remove criminal penalties for land-use violations (Section 9.6.5)
• Public hearing on Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map and Zoning Atlas amendments for Eno Economic Development District
• Fiscal Year 2021-22 American Rescue Plan Act Allocations Round 2
• Contract for Solid Waste Master Plan development
• Lake Orange Erosion Control Barrier Replacement Project construction contract award

The Board unanimously approved the second round of American Rescue Plan Act funding, allocating $3,345,793 to projects including direct housing assistance, tourism recovery, and first responder behavioral health. They also approved rezoning 112.2 acres in the Eno Economic Development District from commercial to residential use, and updated the Board's Rules of Procedure, removing print media notice requirements. All votes were unanimous except the rules change, which passed 6-1.

• Approved $3,345,793 in ARPA Round 2 allocations (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 112.2 acres in Eno EDD from EDE-1 to R-1 (unanimous)
• Approved UDO text amendment removing criminal penalties for land use violations (unanimous)
• Approved updated BOCC Rules of Procedure, removing print media notice requirement (6-1, McKee dissenting)
• Approved 2022 boards and commissions assignments (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including contracts, budget amendments, and trail easement (unanimous)
• Appointed Erica Bryant to Broadband Task Force (unanimous)
• Recognized Cedar Ridge High School Volleyball Team for state championship (unanimous)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will consider approving minutes from the November 8th meeting and continue discussion on its Annual Report and Work Plan, which is due to the Clerk's Office by January 14, 2022. The report outlines accomplishments and planned activities for 2022, including reviewing Climate Action Grant applications, finalizing a County Tree Policy, and developing a Greene Tract preserve. The commission will also break into committees and receive updates on meeting frequency, new member orientation, and officer elections.

• Approval of draft minutes from November 8, 2021
• Finalize and vote on CFE Annual Report and Work Plan (due Jan 14, 2022)
• Discussion of 2022 activities: Climate Action Grant ranking, County Tree Policy, Greene Tract Headwaters Preserve
• Updates on meeting frequency policy, new member orientation, and 2022 officer elections
• Committee breakouts for ongoing projects

The Orange County Commission for the Environment approved its annual report and work plan for submission, agreed to continue sponsoring the Nature of Orange Photography Contest, and approved the November minutes. The meeting also included discussions on meeting frequency policy, new member orientation, and a grant proposal review for the next meeting.

• Approved CFE Annual Report and Work Plan for submission (unanimous)
• Agreed to continue sponsoring Nature of Orange Photography Contest (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from November 8, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard appeals on property valuations, deciding to adjust values for several commercial and residential properties. The board accepted revised valuations for Paliouras Enterprises, Orange County Healthcare Properties, Tri City Investments, and others, while returning one property to its original value. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Tri City Investments: value reduced from $16,045,200 to $8,838,900 for 1801 Fordham Blvd, Chapel Hill
• Orange County Healthcare Properties: value reduced to $3,568,100 for 5935 Mt. Sinai Road, Durham
• Paliouras Enterprises: two parcels reduced to $3,698,500 and $1,269,100 in Hillsborough
• Etta Wilson: property at 500 Church St, Chapel Hill kept at $249,700 after appeal
• J K B Commercial: no change to $585,600 valuation for 101 Conner Drive Unit 201

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections will meet to approve minutes, receive the director's report on budget and voter registration, and consider the one-stop early voting plan for the March 8, 2022 election. They will also schedule absentee meetings and the next board meeting. The agenda is largely routine administrative business.

• Consider one-stop early voting plan for March 8, 2022
• Schedule absentee meetings for March 8, 2022
• Approve minutes from October 26, November 2, 8, and 9, 2021
• Year-to-date budget report
• Voter registration statistical report

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting on December 6, 2021. The main item is a first reading of amendments to the Code of Ordinances to comply with North Carolina Session Law 2021-138, which restricts when local ordinances can carry misdemeanor penalties. The board will also consider an allocation framework for FY2020-21 financial results and handle routine consent agenda items.

• First reading of ordinance amendments to remove or replace misdemeanor penalties with civil penalties in sections on massage businesses, sexually oriented businesses, and mobile food vending
• Re-adoption of ordinances with misdemeanor penalties for animal control, emergency management, smoking, noise, hunting, solid waste, and water conservation
• Approval of an allocation framework for FY2020-21 financial results
• Property tax releases/refunds and applications for property tax exemption/exclusion
• Updates to assistance policies for NCHFA Urgent Repair Program and Essential Single Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool

The Board unanimously approved an allocation framework for the FY2020-21 financial results, totaling approximately $12 million in net positive funds. The framework includes a 3% retroactive wage increase for county employees, $1.5 million for schools' opportunity gap and mental health support, and various other allocations. The Board also amended the memo to remove specific metrics language and allow schools to propose their own performance indicators. The framework will be codified in a budget amendment at a future meeting.

• Approved $12M allocation framework for FY2020-21 surplus (unanimous)
• Approved 3% retroactive wage increase for county employees (part of framework)
• Approved $1.5M for schools' opportunity gap and mental health fund (part of framework)
• Amended memo to strike specific metrics language, allowing schools to propose indicators (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases, policy updates, and appointments (unanimous)
• Elected Renee Price as Chair and Jamezetta Bedford as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Designated Sally Greene as NCACC delegate and Renee Price as NACo delegate (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property valuation appeals, mostly from Mark Patmore and Mercia Residential Properties Inc. for properties in Chapel Hill's Northside Conservation District. Most appellants failed to appear, and the Board approved the County's revised valuations, which included adjustments for property characteristics and market factors.

• Approved reduction of 212 N. Roberson St. valuation from $307,300 to $245,900
• Approved reduction of 308 McMasters St. valuation from $781,100 to $519,400
• Approved reduction of 203 Carver St. valuation from $731,800 to $677,800
• Approved reduction of 205 Carver St. valuation from $731,800 to $677,800
• Approved increase of 312 Lindsay St. valuation from $428,000 to $432,100

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council will meet virtually to approve its 2022 Annual Report and Workplan, the 2022 meeting calendar, and the 'Nature of Orange' Photography Contest. They will also discuss the 2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan priorities, appoint a representative to the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group, and receive updates on projects like Blackwood Farm Park and the Mountain to Sea Trail.

• Approval of 2022 Annual Report and Workplan
• Approval of 2022 Meeting Calendar
• Approval of 'Nature of Orange' Photography Contest 2022
• Appointment of IP Work Group Representative (Colvin)
• Little River Regional Park approvals from 11/16

The Parks & Recreation Council approved Jessie Birckhead for the Chapel Hill Township vacancy and Rebecca Turlock for the Hillsborough Township position, with recommendations to be held for the Board of County Commissioners' February 2022 work session. The council also unanimously approved the 2022 Annual Report, the 2022 meeting calendar, and Chris Colvin as the new representative to the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group. Additionally, the council agreed to sponsor the 2022 'Nature of Orange' Photography Contest and proposed a youth delegate position to the BOCC as a first priority for 2022.

• Approved Jessie Birckhead for Chapel Hill Township vacancy (position #7) and Rebecca Turlock for Hillsborough Township (position #2)
• Unanimously approved the 2022 Annual Report
• Unanimously approved the 2022 meeting calendar
• Approved Chris Colvin as the new PRC representative to the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
• Agreed to sponsor the 2022 'Nature of Orange' Photography Contest
• Agreed to propose a youth delegate/ex officio member position to the BOCC as first priority for 2022

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard and decided 12 property valuation appeals, all unanimously. The Board accepted the County's recommended valuations in every case, which included reductions for some properties and increases for others, based on site visits and corrections to property records.

• Reduced valuation from $402,000 to $317,400 for a Northside Conservation District home after correcting finished square footage to 1,542.
• Increased valuations for two Church Street homes (to $408,500 and $412,200) after correcting upper story percentages and removing economic market adjustments.
• Reduced a landlocked 2-acre parcel west of Piney Mountain Road to $72,800 due to being non-buildable.
• Reduced a Basnight Lane parking lot to $165,000, consistent with neighboring lots.
• Increased a Bel Arbor Lane home to $396,200 after correcting the sketch and finished area to 2,067 square feet.

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board will consider and make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners on Planning Director-initiated amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) that would decriminalize certain ordinance violations, in response to Session Law 2021-138 (Senate Bill 300). The board will also discuss its annual report and work plan, and review informational items including the planning calendar and North Carolina annexation statutes. The meeting is virtual, with public comment by pre-registration.

• UDO text amendments to decriminalize ordinance violations (recommendation to BOCC, public hearing Dec 14)
• Discussion of Planning Board annual report and work plan
• Informational item: North Carolina annexation statutes (voluntary and involuntary methods)
• Approval of November 3, 2021 regular meeting minutes and Ordinance Review Committee notes
• Planning calendar for December 2021 and January 2022

The Orange County Planning Board voted 10-1 to approve a statement of consistency and recommend approval to the Board of County Commissioners for UDO text amendments that decriminalize ordinance violations, in response to Session Law 2021-138. The board also unanimously approved the November 3, 2021 meeting minutes and ORC notes, and unanimously approved incorporating the annual report and work plan discussion into the report for submission. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational items and public comment.

• Approved the November 3, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and ORC Summary Notes unanimously (10-0, with one member's vote not recorded due to internet disconnection).
• Approved a motion to recommend approval to the BOCC for UDO text amendments decriminalizing ordinance violations, with a 10-1 vote (Piracci dissenting).
• Approved a motion to incorporate the annual report and work plan discussion into the report and submit it to the Clerk's Office, passed unanimously (10-0, with one member absent).

Housing Authority Board

The Board is reviewing updates to the Housing Choice Voucher program, including an increase in the payment standard to 110%. Members are also considering community needs feedback and upcoming board member recommendations.

• Increasing HCV payment standard to 110%
• Discussion regarding opening a traditional waitlist
• Recommendation of Valerie Sauer and Dennis to the BOCC
• Review of two applications for one opening board position

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Board discussed whether to issue Housing Choice Vouchers to people on the general waiting list, not just those exiting homelessness, but took no action. Staff reported progress on recertifications, new voucher programs, and a planned database conversion. The board also sought feedback on how to use American Rescue Plan HOME-ARP funds.

• Discussed issuing HCVs to waiting list applicants vs. only those exiting homelessness
• Awarded first two of 19 Emergency Housing Vouchers (ARPA-funded)
• Received one extra HUD-VASH voucher, now 21 total for homeless veterans
• Planning Project Based Vouchers for Spring 2022, including Trinity County RAD conversion
• Seeking public feedback on HOME-ARP funding uses via survey

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard appeals on 10 properties, mostly commercial, and voted unanimously to accept the County's revised valuations in each case. Several appellants did not appear, and the board approved reductions for most properties, with one no-change recommendation.

• East 54 Office Retail LLC: valuation reduced to $31,610,200 (1480 Environ Way) and $13,504,700 (1205 Environ Way)
• Cates Creek Apartments LLC: 270-unit complex reduced to $36,129,700 (100 Waterstone Park Circle)
• Boone Square Inc.: retail tract reduced to $4,200,000 (110 Boone Square Street)
• Mill House Capital Holdings LLC: duplex reclassified to single-family, valuation reduced to $404,900 (301 Pritchard Avenue)
• Efland PMHP LLC: mobile home park reduced to $240,700 with 14 spaces (218 Mt. Willing Road)

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear from State Senator Valerie Foushee, and receive updates on the 2022 Tourism Plan and an active marketing campaign. The agenda is largely informational, with no votes on contracts or policy changes listed.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Presentation by State Senator Valerie Foushee on tourism and economic development
• Discussion of the 2022 Tourism Plan
• Update on the current marketing campaign by Jessica Herrschaft of Clean Design

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually to discuss tourism recovery efforts, including a new campaign to attract midweek business travelers using $150,000 in ARPA funds. The board also heard updates on minority-owned business marketing, a planned move to a new office with a James Taylor exhibit, and reports from local officials on downtown projects and holiday events.

• $150,000 ARPA funds allocated for midweek business travel marketing
• New campaign 'Let Your Curiosity Take You Here' to promote Orange County
• Minority-owned business marketing initiative with new web presence
• Visitors Bureau office move scheduled for December 19
• Chapel Hill to consider extended stay hotel and 150 E. Rosemary Street project

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board approved the October 27, 2021 minutes as submitted. The executive director reported that $150,000 in ARPA funds were allocated to pursue midweek business travel, and that a plan for using the funds was submitted. The board heard presentations from Senator Valerie Foushee and Clean Design on the winter campaign. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved the October 27, 2021 minutes as submitted.
• Heard that $150,000 in ARPA funds were allocated for midweek business travel marketing.
• Heard that a plan for ARPA fund use was submitted and expected to proceed in January.
• Heard about the upcoming move to new offices on December 19.
• Heard about a new publication and marketing focus on minority-owned businesses.
• Heard about the state budget including $187 million for tourism and business marketing.
• Heard about the winter campaign to attract visitors downtown.
• Heard updates from town and county representatives on local events and projects.

Agricultural Preservation Board

The Board will consider new VAD/EVAD applications and appoint a member to the Food Council. Discussion topics include proposed ordinance updates for state law compliance and planning for the 2022 Ag Summit.

• New VAD/EVAD applications
• Appointment of APB member to Food Council
• Proposed ordinance update regarding state law revisions
• Ag Summit 2022 planning
• 2021 Annual Report and Work Plan review

The Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board approved the VAD application for Payton and Weston Rose's 19.51-acre farm, conditional on the Board of County Commissioners approving proposed ordinance revisions that would remove the 2/3 prime soil requirement. The board also approved the March and September meeting minutes as corrected, and appointed Jane Saiers as its representative to the Food Council. Discussion items included a proposed ordinance update to comply with state law changes, with members agreeing to keep small farms eligible and to research minimum acreage for forestry.

• Approved the VAD application for Payton and Weston Rose's 19.51-acre farm, conditional on BOCC approval of ordinance revisions.
• Approved the March and September 2021 meeting minutes as corrected.
• Appointed Jane Saiers as the board's representative to the Food Council.
• Agreed to continue requiring a member from each VAD district on the board.
• Agreed to keep small farms eligible for the program, with a one-acre minimum for horticulture and agriculture.
• Agreed to remove the 2/3 prime soil requirement from the ordinance.
• Agreed to have staff research a larger minimum acreage for forestry.
• Agreed to have staff research proximity requirements for multiple parcels.

Orange Unified Transportation Board

The Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) will meet virtually on November 17, 2021, to consider approving its 2021 Annual Report and 2022 Work Plan, which summarizes past activities and outlines next year's priorities. The board will also receive updates on MPO/RPO and NCDOT activities and the status of the Orange County Transit Plan Update. Public comments can be submitted in writing or by speaking during the meeting.

• Approve 2021 Annual Report and 2022 Work Plan
• Receive MPO/RPO and NCDOT updates
• Receive Orange County Transit Plan Update status
• Public comment via email or Zoom registration

The Orange County OUTBoard unanimously approved the 2021 Annual Report and 2022 Work Plan, incorporating member suggestions on trails, greenways, and the I-40 widening project. The board also approved the September 15, 2021 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included staff updates and information items.

• Approved 2021 Annual Report and 2022 Work Plan (unanimous)
• Approved September 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property tax appeals from commercial and residential property owners. The board reviewed evidence from appellants and county staff, and voted to adjust assessed values on most properties, with one appeal continued for further review. All decisions were unanimous.

• Reduced Link Apartments Glen Lennox LLC valuation from $42,461,800 to $39,122,100
• Reduced Chapel Hill Hotels LLC (AC Marriott) valuation from $15,344,400 to $14,742,100
• Reduced Shortbread Lofts LLC valuation from $36,607,700 to $35,875,400
• Continued Tri City Investments LLC (Lowe's Home Improvement) appeal to December 2, 2022
• No change for Waypoint UNC Chapel Ridge Owner LLC at $28,582,300

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard property tax appeals for 13 parcels, with most appellants not appearing and submitting documentation instead. The Board voted unanimously on each case, accepting the County's recommended valuations in all but one instance, where the value was increased. Decisions included correcting property data errors, adjusting for flood plains, and accepting a late Present Use Value application.

• Accepted late Present Use Value application for 40.24 acres at 7706 Atkins Road, Mebane (Martinez)
• Reduced 101 Stephens Street, Chapel Hill from $475,300 to $353,400 (Rosenbacher)
• Reduced 206 Sunset Drive, Chapel Hill from $524,400 to $402,000 (Bulbrook)
• Increased 407 Church Street, Chapel Hill from $523,200 to $538,100 (Wells)
• Reduced 115 Stinson Street, Chapel Hill from $414,800 to $361,500 (Lincoln)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on the 2020 Consolidated Annual Performance Report (CAPER) for the HOME program and on the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, both related to federal housing funds. The board will also consider approving a resolution for the Greene Tract draft recombination plat and conceptual plan, and decide whether to opt into a national settlement with Janssen and national distributors. Several consent agenda items include budget amendments, a fine-free library initiative, and contracts for in-car video systems.

• Public hearing on 2020 CAPER for HOME program (approx. $200,000 in HOME funds and $45,000 in local match disbursed)
• Public hearing on Orange County's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan
• Greene Tract resolution approving draft recombination plat and conceptual plan
• Opt-in to national settlement with Janssen and national distributors
• Fiscal Year 2021-22 Budget Amendment #4 and #4-A (Fine Free Initiative for Library Services)

The Board unanimously approved the Greene Tract Resolution, adopting a draft recombination plat and conceptual plan for the 167-acre Greene Tract, which reconfigures land between county and joint ownership to preserve 82 acres and designate 82 acres for potential development, including a school site. The Board also unanimously voted to formally enter the national opioid settlement with Janssen and distributors, and approved a consent agenda that included eliminating library late fines and forgiving existing fines.

• Approved Greene Tract Resolution for draft recombination plat and conceptual plan (unanimous)
• Approved final entry into national opioid settlement with Janssen and distributors (unanimous)
• Approved elimination of library late fines and forgiveness of all existing fines (consent agenda)
• Approved five-year Tyler Technologies software maintenance contract (consent agenda)
• Renewed inter-local agreement for Little River Regional Park and approved Master Plan (consent agenda)
• Accepted trail easement donation for Mountains-to-Sea Trail and approved conservation easement amendment (consent agenda)
• Approved Stormwater Control Measure Easement with Town of Hillsborough for Sportsplex (consent agenda)
• Approved FY 2021-22 Budget Amendment #4 and #4-A (consent agenda)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to receive a presentation on local and regional food systems, including COVID impacts and economic development opportunities. The board will also discuss appointments to several advisory boards and councils. No public comments will be taken during the work session.

• Food Systems Community & Economic Development Update presentation
• Chapel Hill Library Advisory Board appointment discussion
• Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau appointments discussion
• Commission for the Environment appointments discussion
• Orange County Housing Authority appointments discussion

The Board of County Commissioners held a work session with presentations on the local food system, including updates from Weaver Street Market, the Piedmont Food Processing Center, and the Orange County Food Council. No formal policy decisions were made on this topic. The board made several appointments to advisory boards, including the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau, Commission for the Environment, Orange County Housing Authority, and Parks and Recreation Council. The Chapel Hill Library Advisory Board appointment was delayed for more information. The board also voted unanimously to enter a closed session for attorney consultation.

• Appointed four members to the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau (consensus)
• Appointed five members to the Commission for the Environment (consensus)
• Appointed two members to the Orange County Housing Authority and nominated Alice Mahood for a vacant seat (consensus)
• Re-appointed Gina Reyman to the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council (consensus)
• Delayed appointment to the Chapel Hill Library Advisory Board pending more information
• Voted unanimously to add a closed session to the agenda for attorney consultation
• Voted unanimously to recess, reconvene, and adjourn the meeting

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections will meet to canvass and certify the results of the November 2, 2021 municipal and Chapel Hill–Carrboro City School Board election. The agenda includes a director's report on the election, certification of results, scheduling the next meeting, and updating board time and travel records.

• Certify election results for Nov. 2, 2021 municipal and Chapel Hill–Carrboro City School Board election
• Director's report on the election
• Schedule next board meeting
• Update board time and travel records

The Orange County Board of Elections certified the results of the November 2, 2021 Municipal and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School Board Election. The board approved the canvass reports and signed official abstracts to be filed with state and local authorities. Voter turnout was 23.01% with 16,984 ballots cast.

• Approved canvass reports as submitted (unanimous)
• Certified November 2, 2021 election results (unanimous)
• Signed official abstracts for filing with State Board of Elections, Clerk of Court, and local board

Advisory Board on Aging

The Orange County Advisory Board on Aging is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear staff updates, and continue work on the 2022-27 Master Aging Plan, including community engagement findings and workgroup assignments. They will also appoint delegates to the TJCOG Area Agency on Aging Board, set the 2022 meeting schedule, and fill board vacancies. The agenda includes several committee progress reports.

• Approval of September 14, 2021 minutes
• Staff updates: new Aging Specialist Lydia Arnold, 55+ Volunteer Connect Coordinator Alison Smith, Seymour Center Facility Manager Alexandra Burress
• Soltys Center reopened October 19, renamed Soltys Place
• Appointment of delegates to TJCOG Area Agency on Aging Board
• 2022-27 Master Aging Plan: workgroup representatives needed for Transportation, Housing, Civic Participation, etc.

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The board will receive a presentation on homelessness data from the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness. Members will also hear a presentation regarding Limited Equity Housing Co-ops and discuss board recruitment.

• Homelessness Data Presentation by Rachel Waltz
• Limited Equity Housing Co-ops presentation and Q&A
• HOME-ARP presentation and feedback survey
• Board vacancy and recruitment discussion

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board heard a presentation on 2021 homelessness data showing a 39% increase since 2017, with 176 people experiencing homelessness on a given night and 67% being Black/African American. The board also received a presentation on limited equity housing cooperatives as an affordable housing model. No formal decisions were made; the board unanimously agreed to move the HOME-ARP agenda item to the December meeting.

• Approved October 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved HOME-ARP agenda item to December meeting (unanimous)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment (CFE) will meet virtually to approve the October minutes, begin planning its annual report and work plan for the Board of County Commissioners, and discuss the meeting schedule and location for the next calendar year, including whether to continue virtual meetings. The agenda also includes committee breakout sessions to set goals and projects for the year.

• Approval of draft minutes from October 11, 2021
• Discussion of CFE annual report and work plan for 2021
• Discussion of 2022 meeting schedule and location, including virtual option
• Committee breakout sessions to discuss goals and projects
• Updates and information items from staff and members

The Commission for the Environment approved the October minutes and decided to keep meeting virtually via Zoom until further direction from the Board of County Commissioners. They discussed the upcoming annual report and work plan, due January 14, 2022, and expressed interest in forming a joint sub-committee with the Parks and Recreation Council for the Green Tract nature preserve. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved October 11, 2021 draft minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to continue virtual meetings via Zoom until further BOCC direction
• Expressed interest in joint sub-committee with Parks and Recreation Council for Green Tract planning

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections will meet to process and certify supplemental absentee by-mail ballots and provisional ballots cast in the recent election. The board will also conduct a sample audit count for precincts in Hillsborough and Glenwood, and schedule its next meeting.

• Process and certify supplemental absentee by-mail ballots
• Process and certify provisional ballots
• Conduct sample audit count for Hillsborough and Glenwood precincts
• Schedule next board meeting

The Orange County Board of Elections approved 83 civilian, 22 overseas, and one military supplemental absentee ballots, and rejected 15 civilian ballots (including one with an expired notary). They also approved 24 provisional ballots, partially approved one, and rejected 25. The board certified the supplemental absentee abstracts and conducted a sample audit, finding a two-vote discrepancy for George Griffin in Glenwood precinct due to a marking error.

• Approved 83 civilian supplemental absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 22 overseas supplemental absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 1 military supplemental absentee ballot (unanimous)
• Rejected 14 civilian supplemental absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Rejected 1 civilian supplemental absentee ballot due to expired notary (unanimous)
• Approved 24 provisional ballots and partially approved 1 (unanimous)
• Rejected 25 provisional ballots (unanimous)
• Certified supplemental absentee abstracts for submission to State Board

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting on November 4, 2021. The agenda includes a resolution supporting Orange County Schools in response to reported hostile and racist incidents at school events, as well as routine items such as approving minutes, a budget amendment, and receiving various reports.

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution supporting Orange County Schools, whose meetings were disrupted by hostile protests. The resolution commits the county to work with schools, the Sheriff's Office, and the community to promote civil discourse, and directs the Human Relations Commission to study measures to promote civility. The board also approved the consent agenda, including budget amendment #3 and property tax releases/refunds.

• Approved resolution supporting Orange County Schools (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda, including minutes, tax releases/refunds, and budget amendment #3 (unanimous)
• Approved release of motor vehicle property tax values for two taxpayers (part of consent agenda)
• Approved release of property tax values for five taxpayers (part of consent agenda)
• Approved ten untimely property tax exemption applications (part of consent agenda)
• Authorized Chair to sign Q3 CDBG-CV grant report (part of consent agenda)

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board unanimously approved a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners to amend the Future Land Use Map and Zoning Atlas for the Eno Economic Development District. The changes would reclassify 112.2 acres (34 parcels) from Economic Development District Transition Activity Node to 10-Year Transition and rezone from EDE-1 to R-1 (Rural Residential). The recommendation will go to the BOCC for a public hearing on December 14, 2021.

• Approved recommendation to BOCC for FLUM and zoning amendments (unanimous)
• Approved September 1, 2021 meeting minutes and training notes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board's Ordinance Review Committee will review a proposed amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) that removes language allowing criminal penalties for certain land use violations, in response to Session Law 2021-138 (Senate Bill 300). The amendment eliminates Section 9.6.5 but keeps criminal penalties for floodplain, erosion, and stormwater regulations. The board is only reviewing and providing feedback; the Board of County Commissioners will make the final decision.

• Review of UDO text amendment to decriminalize ordinance violations per Session Law 2021-138
• Elimination of Section 9.6.5 allowing criminal penalties for UDO violations
• Criminal penalties retained for floodplain, soil erosion, and stormwater management violations
• County Attorney's office reviewed the proposal and found it legally sufficient
• Public comments accepted via email or virtual meeting with pre-registration by 3:00 p.m.

The Orange County Planning Board's Ordinance Review Committee reviewed proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendments to comply with Session Law 2021-138 (Senate Bill 300), which decriminalizes violations of certain land use regulations. The committee discussed the changes but did not vote; the amendments will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners for final action. No formal decisions were made at this meeting.

• Reviewed UDO text amendments to decriminalize ordinance violations (no vote taken)
• Discussed retaining criminal penalties for erosion control and flood plain violations (no action)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard three property tax appeals and approved revised valuations for each. The board accepted the County's recommended values for two properties owned by Annette Broadwell and one owned by Allonious Nickens, all located in Chapel Hill.

• Reduced valuation on 4.84 acres at Trout Lilly Lane from $532,500 to $40,500
• Reduced valuation on 9101 Trout Lilly Lane from $523,300 to $487,800
• Reduced valuation on 7725 Rogers Road from $112,100 to $52,800
• All three motions passed unanimously (3-0)

Parks & Recreation Council

The Parks and Recreation Council will discuss staff priorities for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030 and brainstorm the 2022 Council work plan. They will also welcome a new member, review a member survey, and hear project updates.

• Welcome new council member Natalie Ziemba
• Review Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030 staff priorities
• Brainstorm 2022 Council work plan
• Discuss PRC member survey
• Receive project and program updates

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council approved the previous meeting's minutes without changes. The council unanimously agreed to postpone the appointment of a new liaison to the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group (IPWG) until the December meeting, after Chris Colvin expressed interest. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on reports and discussions about the Master Plan 2030, the 2022 work plan, and project updates.

• Approved previous meeting summary notes (unanimous)
• Moved IPWG liaison appointment to December meeting agenda (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Board of Equalization and Review unanimously approved the County's recommended revised assessed values for all 10 property tax appeals heard on November 2, 2021. All appellants did not appear and submitted documentation instead. Each motion to accept the County's revised value carried 3-0.

• Approved no change in value for Shirley S. Durham's property at 215 N. Columbia St., Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $608,600 for Benjamin Zirkel's property at 218 E. Queen St., Hillsborough (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $248,600 for Glenn Sawtelle's property at 201 Blueridge Rd., Carrboro (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $254,800 for Mastin Holdings LLC's property at 225 N. Roberson St., Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $456,100 for CHNS LLC's property at 211 Sunset Dr./101 Starlite Dr., Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $698,300 for CHNS LLC's property at 414 Sykes St., Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $358,900 for Adam Zinn's property at 700 N. Columbia St., Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $295,900 for Jeffrey Tate's property at 502 Gomains Ave., Chapel Hill (3-0)

Board of Elections

The Board will process and certify absentee by-mail and one-stop ballots cast to date. The meeting includes a director's report on ballot counts and a discussion regarding precinct visit notes.

• Processing of absentee by-mail ballots received to date
• Processing of one-stop ballots cast
• Tabulation and recording of absentee results
• Certification of absentee ballots cast to date

The Orange County Board of Elections met to review absentee ballots. The board unanimously approved 139 civilian absentee ballots and 29 overseas absentee ballots, and disapproved 11 civilian absentee ballots. The board also assisted staff in opening and tabulating ballots, with a final tabulator count of 339.

• Approved 139 civilian absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 29 overseas absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Disapproved 11 civilian absentee ballots (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Orange County Historic Preservation Commission is meeting virtually to discuss several preservation topics, including the Black School preservation update, a landmark evaluation for Ridge Road School, a proposed historic marker for lynchings, and a barn renovation at Chatwood Local Landmark. No items are scheduled for decision at this meeting.

• Black School preservation update
• Ridge Road School landmark evaluation exercise
• Proposed historic marker to remember lynchings in Orange County
• Chatwood Local Landmark: proposed barn renovation
• Norwood-Jones Law Office lease approved (informational)

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board heard updates on tourism recovery, including the status of federal ARPA funds and local marketing plans. Members discussed the county's $12 million ARPA drawdown, a new Carrboro business grant program, and upcoming holiday events.

• Orange County receiving $12,000,000 of $28,000,000 in ARPA funds over two years; final dispersal decisions expected by end of year
• Carrboro Town Council approved COVID-19 Business Grant Program for tourism-based businesses, applications open November 1
• Carrboro's 203 Project nearing approval, with bids expected and groundbreaking targeted for spring
• UNC Visitors Center reported 11,000 visitors since February reopening; UNC implementing vaccine requirement due to federal contract
• Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership planning December Sunday markets and considering outdoor tree lighting; no Christmas parade this year

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually and approved the September 15, 2021 minutes as submitted. The meeting included presentations on the 2022 Group Sales Plan and Visit NC's overview, with discussion of ARPA funds for tourism. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and roundtable updates from members and guests.

• Approved September 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Board of Directors will meet virtually to receive updates on programs and budgets. The agenda also includes sales updates and discussions regarding the new Sheraton Chapel Hill.

• Program and Budget Updates
• Sales Updates
• Sheraton Chapel Hill discussion
• Marketing/Social Media update

Board of Elections

The Board will review reports on absentee by-mail and one-stop ballots cast to date. The meeting also includes processing received absentee ballots and appointing supplemental precinct officials.

• Processing of absentee by-mail ballots received to date
• Appointment of supplemental precinct officials
• Review of absentee by-mail and one-stop ballots cast to date

The Orange County Board of Elections approved 69 civilian and 17 overseas absentee ballots, and disapproved 5 civilian absentee ballots after bipartisan review. The board also approved precinct official vacancy appointments and moved into closed session to discuss personnel. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 69 civilian absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 17 overseas absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Disapproved 5 civilian absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved precinct official vacancy appointments (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Oct 5, 12, and 19 meetings (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property value appeals. The board approved the County's revised valuations for several Kingston Investor LLC units, reducing them from $171,300 to $171,188 or from $123,000 to $112,500. The board also approved revised valuations for West Side Limited PTNS & Triangle V Limited PTNS properties, including a reduction to $2,016,900 for a W. Franklin Street property and $251,200 for a parking lot. Two appeals from Pendergraft were accepted as untimely and scheduled for a later meeting.

• Adopted revised valuation of $112,500 for eight Kingston Investor LLC units at 123 Kingston Drive, Chapel Hill.
• Adopted revised valuation of $2,016,900 for West Side Limited PTNS & Triangle V Limited PTNS property on W. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill.
• Adopted revised valuation of $3,446,400 for West Side Limited PTNS & Triangle V Limited PTNS property at 500 William Hooper Circle, Hillsborough.
• Adopted revised valuation of $251,200 for a parking lot off W. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill.
• Accepted untimely appeals from Pendergraft for properties on Northside and Basnight Lane.

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting online to hear updates from its Partnership and Community Engagement workgroups and to discuss its annual public report. The meeting is open to the public, but there is no place on the agenda for public comment; questions can be submitted to staff beforehand.

• Discussion of annual OCCC public report
• Partnership Workgroup update by Kathy Kaufman
• Community Engagement and Relations update by Donna Rubinoff and interns
• Land acknowledgement recognizing historic lands of Occoneechi, Saponi, Tutelo, and other peoples

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property tax valuation appeals. The board approved revised assessed values for all appealed properties, mostly accepting the County's recommendations, which were lower than the original assessments. All votes were unanimous.

• Pons Family LLC: 502 W. Franklin St. reduced from $1,492,100 to $854,400
• Exchange at Meadowmont LLC: 1414 Raleigh Rd. reduced from $30,189,300 to $26,900,600
• 86 North CGC LLC: 200 Westminister Dr. reduced from $16,264,800 to $15,922,100
• AKG North America Inc.: 7315 Oakwood St. reduced from $17,185,200 to $15,274,000
• 600 Franklin Square LLC: eight units at 1829 E. Franklin St. each reduced from $119,200 to $112,741

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board will discuss and vote on increasing the Housing Choice Voucher payment standard to 110%, along with updates on Emergency Housing Vouchers and a proposed reduction in briefing frequency. The board will also review programmatic reports, consider two new member recommendations, and discuss a meeting time change. No informal hearings were held this month.

• Vote on increasing Housing Choice Voucher payment standard to 110%
• Update on Emergency Housing Vouchers
• Proposal to reduce briefings to once per month
• Two new board members recommended to BOCC: Valerie Sauer and Dennis Carmody
• One board opening with preference for non-public housing residents

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board voted unanimously to raise Housing Choice Voucher payment standards to 110% of fair market rent across the board, citing increased area rents and reserve funds. The board also discussed Emergency Housing Vouchers, reducing briefing frequency to once monthly, and recommended two new board members to the Board of County Commissioners.

• Approved increasing Housing Choice Voucher payment standard to 110% of FMR across the board
• Discussed targeted Small Area FMRs for zip codes 27510 and 27514 but chose general increase
• Emergency Housing Vouchers: first applications sent out
• Recommended Valerie Sauer and Dennis Carmody as new board members to BOCC
• Meeting time changed to 3rd Thursday of month

Alcoholic Beverage Control Board

The Orange County Alcoholic Beverage Control Board is holding its regular monthly meeting, primarily to review September 2021 financial reports, retail sales data, and a proposed return-to-work policy. The agenda is largely procedural, with consent items and management updates, and no major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Review of September 2021 financial reports including net assets, revenue/expenses, and budget comparison
• September 2021 and year-to-date retail sales report
• Statewide sales report for September 2021
• Discussion of Return to Work Policy
• Approval of September 21, 2021 meeting minutes

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property valuation appeals. The Board approved revised valuations for several properties, including a reduction for a home on Ridge Trail and a significant reduction for a property on Trotting Trail. The Board denied an appeal of late listing penalties for Tate Inc. and rescheduled one appeal. All decisions were based on County staff recommendations after reviewing evidence from appellants and comparable sales data.

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will consider approving $268,332.50 in Community Climate Action Grant funding for five recommended projects, including HVAC replacement for low-income households, a neighborhood energy resiliency project, and food waste monitors. The board will also vote on a request to shift one scoring point from 'Time to Complete' to 'Social Justice/Racial Equity' in future grant rounds. Other agenda items include establishing a Schools Capital Needs Work Group and a Library Services Task Force, plus consent agenda items like a budget amendment and a fire department financing agreement.

• $113,000 to Rebuilding Together of the Triangle for Low Income HVAC Replacement
• $90,000 to NC Sustainable Energy Association for Neighborhood Energy Resiliency Project
• $4,000 to Town of Carrboro for Food Waste Monitor
• $3,765 to Eno River Farmers Market for Food Waste Monitor
• Approval of financing arrangements for Orange Rural Fire Department new Fire/EMS Station

The Board approved $268,332.50 in Community Climate Action Grants for FY 2021-22, funding six projects including HVAC replacement, energy resiliency, and food waste monitors. It also approved increasing the grant scoring rubric from 25 to 26 points to add one point to the Social Justice/Racial Equity category. Additionally, the Board established a Schools Capital Needs Work Group and a Library Services Task Force, and approved the 2022 meeting calendar with all meetings in person starting in January.

• Approved $268,332.50 in Community Climate Action Grants (unanimous)
• Increased grant scoring rubric to 26 points, adding one point to Social Justice/Racial Equity (unanimous)
• Established Schools Capital Needs Work Group (unanimous)
• Established Library Services Task Force without facilitator (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting calendar with in-person meetings starting January (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including fire station financing and LAUNCH incubator renewal (unanimous)
• Approved Piedmont Food Processing Center agreement amended to two-year term (unanimous)

Board of Elections

The Board will review reports on one-stop and absentee by-mail ballots cast to date. The meeting also includes processing received absentee by-mail ballots and updating board records.

• Review of one-stop ballots cast to date
• Review of absentee by-mail ballots cast to date
• Processing of received absentee by-mail ballots
• Update of Board time and travel records

The Orange County Board of Elections met to review absentee ballots. The board unanimously approved 51 civilian, 31 overseas, and 3 military absentee ballots, and disapproved 5 civilian ballots due to missing witness signatures. The board also verified the DS200 tabulator count at 85 ballots.

• Approved 51 civilian absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 31 overseas absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 3 military absentee ballots (unanimous)
• Disapproved 5 civilian absentee ballots missing witness signatures (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Board of Equalization and Review heard four property tax appeals. It upheld the denial of an elderly/disabled exclusion and a charitable exemption, and adjusted the assessed values of two other properties based on County recommendations.

• Denied Elderly/Disabled Exclusion for PIN 9799386254 due to income over $31,500 limit
• Denied charitable exemption for 36.93-acre Meridian Community Foundation property on Bushy Cook Road, Efland
• Reduced value of 7205 Thunder Mountain Road, Mebane from $665,500 to $630,700
• Adjusted values for two Community Home Trust units at 140 W Barbee Chapel Road, Chapel Hill
• All motions carried 3-0

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard six property tax appeals and voted unanimously to accept the County's recommended valuations in each case. All decisions were made by a 3-0 vote. The board adjusted values for industrial, commercial, and apartment properties in Mebane, Hillsborough, and Chapel Hill.

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard appeals on property valuations, mostly for commercial and apartment properties in Chapel Hill. The board voted to accept the County's revised values in most cases, reducing assessments for several properties, and denied one request to compromise tax penalties.

• Obey Creek Ventures: two parcels reduced to $1,036,700 and $4,375,100
• Siena Hotel: request to compromise $2,535.67 in penalties denied
• Kipos Restaurant: $150.83 in late listing penalties compromised
• Ram's Horn Apartments (two parcels): values set at $1,503,200 and $3,463,500
• Elliott Square Shopping Center: value reduced to $13,163,100

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections is meeting to canvass and certify the results of the October 5, 2021 Durham Municipal Primary Election. The board will also schedule its next meeting and update time and travel records. This is a routine post-election certification meeting.

• Certify election results of October 5, 2021 Durham Municipal Primary Election
• Schedule next board meeting
• Update board time and travel records

The Orange County Board of Elections certified the October 5, 2021 Durham Municipal Primary Election results, which had zero voters cast out of 53 eligible. The board also unanimously cancelled the absentee meeting scheduled for October 12 at 5 pm. The board signed official abstracts to be filed with the State Board of Elections, Clerk to the City of Durham Council, and the Orange County Board of Elections.

• Certified October 5, 2021 Durham Municipal Primary Election results (unanimous)
• Cancelled absentee meeting scheduled for October 12 at 5 pm (unanimous)
• Signed official abstracts for filing with State Board of Elections, Clerk to City of Durham Council, and Orange County BOE

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve prior minutes, hear member updates, and conduct business including filling a board vacancy and electing a vice chair. Staff will provide updates on outside agency funding, community development programs, the Orange County Housing Authority, and the Partnership to End Homelessness.

• Elect vice chair
• Update on Outside Agency funding and process
• Community Development Programs Update (30 minutes)
• Orange County Housing Authority Update
• Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness Update

The Affordable Housing Advisory Board met virtually and received updates on several housing programs, including the Longtime Homeowner Assistance program, HOME-ARP funds, Emergency Housing Assistance, and the Orange County Housing Authority. No formal decisions were made; the board approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed filling vacancies and electing a vice chair.

• Approved September 14, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed filling three board vacancies; nominations to be made via online poll
• Discussed vice chair vacancy; will confirm Olivia Fisher's willingness to serve

Arts Commission

The Orange County Arts Commission is meeting virtually to approve September minutes, discuss 2022 board officer nominations, and receive updates on the Eno Mill grand opening, the Paint it Orange event, and arts educator grants. Liaison reports from various arts organizations and board member updates are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of 2022 board officers: Fred Joiner (chair), Anita Mill (vice-chair), Delia Keefe (secretary)
• Eno Mill Grand Opening discussion and coordination with Last Fridays/branding
• 5th Annual Paint it Orange Plein Air Paint-out
• Arts Educator grants
• Liaison reports from UNC, Chapel Hill Arts Commission, Hillsborough Arts Council, The ArtsCenter, Carrboro Arts, and others

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will review and finalize the scoring sheet and comments for the Community Climate Action Grant FY 2021-22, including impacts from the Human Relations Commission scores. The meeting also includes approval of the September 13th minutes and committee breakout discussions.

• Finalize CFE grant scoring for 8 applications totaling $964,178 requested
• Recommended $268,332.50 in funding for top 5 projects
• Low Income HVAC Replacement (Rebuilding Together of the Triangle) ranked 1st at $113,000
• Energizing the Fleet (CHCCS) and Sustainability Upgrades (Carrboro Arts Center) not recommended for funding
• Discussion of Efland Industrial Park development proposal

The Commission for the Environment approved the draft minutes from September 13, 2021, with no opposition. Staff provided an update on the Climate Action Tax Fund Round 2, noting that the Board of County Commissioners is progressing on approval and that schools may receive more time to form projects. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved draft minutes from September 13, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The October 11, 2021, meeting contains no cases under review. The agenda is limited to procedural items including the approval of minutes from January and August 2021.

• Approval of January 25, 2021, minutes
• Approval of August 9, 2021, minutes

The Board of Adjustment held a regular meeting via Zoom and approved the minutes from January 25, 2021 (with a spelling correction) and August 9, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the board discussed future training and meeting formats, and noted that no November or December meetings were scheduled due to lack of applications.

• Approved January 25, 2021 minutes as corrected (unanimous)
• Approved August 9, 2021 minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:12 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a joint meeting with the Chiefs' Association and a work session. They will discuss regulating firearm discharge in high-density residential areas, review the boards and commissions appointment process, and hear updates on public safety communications, EMS, and a length of service awards program.

• Follow-up discussion on regulating firearm discharge in high residential density areas, with maps showing 300 and 450 foot buffers
• Discussion on establishing a Length of Service Awards Program
• Emergency Services update on current challenges facing EMS
• Boards and commissions appointment process discussion, including draft materials and policy questions
• Discussion on Family Success Alliance Advisory Council Commissioner Liaison assignments

The Board held a work session and joint meeting with the Orange County Chiefs' Association, discussing fire/EMS services, broadband, and a potential firearms discharge ordinance. No formal decisions were made on the firearms issue; the Board agreed to consider future proposals. The Board also discussed but did not finalize changes to the boards and commissions appointment process.

• Recessed and reconvened meeting unanimously
• Agreed by consensus not to consider applications received after agenda publication
• Agreed by consensus to add advisory board policy review to rolling list of projects
• Agreed by consensus to reduce Family Success Alliance Advisory Council liaisons from two to one

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council will hold elections for chair and vice-chair, receive an annual update from the Parks Division, and review the Mountains to Sea Trail and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030. The director will introduce a new staff member and provide project updates, including a November discussion on the Racial Equity Plan and Fairview landfill.

• Chair and Vice-Chair elections
• Parks Division annual update
• Mountains to Sea Trail progress report
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030 review
• Introduction of Kalani Allen

The Parks and Recreation Council elected John Greeson as chair and Xilong Zhao as vice-chair by acclamation. The council also reviewed the annual parks update, discussed the Mountain to Sea Trail progress, and considered the 2030 Master Plan priorities. No formal votes were taken on policy items; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• John Greeson approved as chair by acclamation
• Xilong Zhao approved as vice-chair by acclamation
• September 1st meeting notes accepted

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections is meeting to handle routine election administration tasks. They will approve minutes, receive the director's report on budgets and voter registration, and act on absentee and one-stop ballots, including certification. They will also appoint supplemental precinct officials and schedule the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from September 7, 2021
• Year-to-date budget report
• Voter registration statistical report
• Certify absentee ballots cast to date
• Supplemental precinct official appointments

The Orange County Board of Elections met on October 5, 2021, and approved the September 7, 2021 minutes unanimously. The Board certified and signed absentee abstracts for the October 5 Durham Municipal Primary Election, to be submitted to the State Board of Elections, with results held until 7:30 pm. The Board also approved precinct official vacancy appointments in closed session. No public comment was made.

• Approved September 7, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Certified and signed absentee abstracts for Durham Municipal Primary Election (unanimous)
• Approved precinct official vacancy appointments (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will receive the final report from the BOCC Elections Advisory Group on the process for electing county commissioners and provide direction on next steps. The board will also consider a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month and several routine consent agenda items. Public comments are limited to one hour with a three-minute limit per speaker.

• Final report from BOCC Elections Advisory Group on electing county commissioners
• Proclamation designating Sept 15-Oct 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month
• Longtime Homeowner Assistance (LHA) Program
• Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan
• Performance agreement with Town of Chapel Hill and Visitors Bureau

The Board unanimously approved the Longtime Homeowner Assistance program design, removing the age requirement. The program, funded with $250,000 in ARPA funds, will help homeowners at least 50 years old (now any age) who earn below 80% of area median income, have lived in their home for 10+ years, and saw property tax increases from the 2021 revaluation. The Board also accepted the Elections Advisory Group's report and endorsed transportation recommendations.

• Approved Longtime Homeowner Assistance program without age requirement (unanimous)
• Accepted BOCC Elections Advisory Group final report recommendations 1-4 (unanimous)
• Endorsed OUTBoard comments on 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (6-0, one abstention)
• Directed County Attorney to draft performance agreement provision for public comment at nonprofit meetings (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases, personnel ordinance amendment, and property transfers (unanimous)
• Reconsidered and passed item 8-e on law enforcement separation buyout (6-2)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property tax valuation appeals. The board approved revised assessed values for most properties, generally following County staff recommendations, and denied changes for two properties. All decisions were unanimous.

• 140 W Franklin St Unit 305, Chapel Hill: value reduced to $441,400
• 1322 Arborgate Circle, Chapel Hill: no change, value stays $219,600
• 201 Partin Farm Road, Chapel Hill: value reduced to $307,000
• 112 Oakdale Drive, Hillsborough: value reduced to $199,200
• 212 Laurel Avenue, Carrboro: value reduced to $558,800

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard five property valuation appeals and one penalty request. The Board approved the County's recommended reduced values for all five properties, and denied a request to compromise a late listing penalty because the penalty had already been paid.

• Approved reduced value of $401,200 for 202 Laurens Way, Chapel Hill (from $406,600)
• Approved reduced value of $888,000 for 216 Silver Creek Trail, Chapel Hill (from $924,200)
• Approved reduced value of $686,700 for 1118 Burning Tree Drive, Chapel Hill (from $717,700)
• Approved reduced value of $230,100 for 301 Davie Road, Durham (from $244,900)
• Denied Kingsdown's request to compromise a $1,076.36 late listing penalty

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard five property tax appeals. The board upheld a denial of an elderly/disabled exclusion, tabled one valuation appeal for further review, and accepted the County's recommended value adjustments for three other properties. Decisions were made on properties in Chapel Hill, Efland, Mebane, and along East Washington Street.

• Denied elderly/disabled exclusion for 112 Cole Street, Chapel Hill (PIN 9788046427) because appellant is not the owner on record.
• Tabled appeal for 7205 Thunder Mountain Road, Efland (PIN 9831509704) until Oct 14 for a site visit to confirm square footage.
• Reduced value of vacant lot on Lebanon Road, Mebane (PIN 9825885266) from $58,600 to $35,100 due to shape.
• Reduced value of vacant lot on East Washington Street Extension, Mebane (PIN 9834189593) from $41,100 to $37,000 due to shape.
• Made no change to values for four properties owned by Doug Westbrook and one owned by Mary Ann Valch.

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual joint meeting with the Chapel Hill-Carrboro and Orange County school boards to discuss school-related issues. Agenda items include COVID-19 updates, a capital needs task force, mental health needs, racial equity collaboration, budget and personnel updates, and local/state assessment results. The meeting is for discussion and direction to staff, with no direct financial impact.

• COVID-19 update and health/safety protocols from both school districts
• Capital Needs Task Force update
• Mental health needs for students and staff
• Racial Equity Collaboration update
• Budget and personnel updates, including fund balance and ESSER COVID funds

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a virtual joint meeting with the Orange County Board of Education and Chapel Hill-Carrboro Board of Education. The meeting was informational, with presentations on COVID-19 safety protocols, capital needs, mental health support, racial equity initiatives, budget updates, and assessment results. No formal decisions were made; the boards discussed forming a capital needs working group and heard updates on school operations.

• No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting
• Discussed forming a capital needs working group with representatives from each board
• Heard COVID-19 updates from both school districts
• Reviewed mental health support presentations from both districts
• Discussed racial equity collaboration and the One Orange plan
• Received budget and personnel updates from both districts
• Reviewed local and state assessment results from both districts

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization & Review heard nine property valuation appeals, deciding on each. The Board approved revised values for most properties, including reductions for damaged homes and land adjustments, and granted a religious exemption for one property. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Approved revised value of $293,300 for a property after removing an unfinished attic from the record.
• Reduced a dwelling's value to $80,100 and total property to $240,860 due to extensive interior damage at 407 Stagg Road, Hillsborough.
• Adjusted a property at 19 Cobb Terrace, Chapel Hill to $333,100, correcting a double land deduction and adding a deck.
• Reduced a property at 5 Cobb Terrace, Chapel Hill to $327,500, changing heating type, condition, and land adjustments.
• Granted a religious property tax exemption to a church after mold remediation halted services.

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review approved revised property values for 12 appeals, all unanimously (3-0), based on County staff recommendations. The Board also granted a religious property tax exemption to NC District Council Assemblies of God Inc. and continued one exemption request (Meridian Community Foundation) to October 14, 2021.

• Approved revised value of $293,300 for 4517 Bradshaw Quarry Road (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $240,860 for 407 Stagg Road (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $200 for .01-acre property off Lawrence Road (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $25,000 for 133 Cobblestone Drive (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $333,100 for 19 Cobb Terrace (3-0)
• Approved no change in value for Lot 24 Edwards Drive West (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $327,500 for 5 Cobb Terrace (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $72,200 for 609 Hillsborough Road (3-0)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard appeals on property valuations, tax exclusions, and late-filing penalties. Decisions included granting a disabled exclusion, accepting county-recommended valuation adjustments, and tabling one appeal for further legal review.

• Granted Disabled Exclusion for PIN 9789309945
• Denied valuation change for 128 Weatherhill Pointe, Carrboro ($285,000)
• Accepted revised valuation of $21,692 for 86.08-acre property on Efland Cedar Grove Road
• Compromised taxes of $1,225.59 for Gavin C. Heymann DDS MS PA
• Tabled Kingsdown appeal (Account 271052) for legal review

Orange Unified Transportation Board

The Orange Unified Transportation Board will receive a presentation on the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization's 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Alternatives Analysis and consider revising comments to forward to the Board of County Commissioners. The board will also receive updates on MPO/RPO and NCDOT activities and the Orange County Transit Plan. Public comments can be submitted in writing or by speaking during the virtual meeting.

• Discussion of DCHC MPO 2050 MTP Alternatives Analysis and potential comment revisions
• Staff report on MPO/RPO and NCDOT updates
• Orange County Transit Plan update
• NCDOT luncheon notes as information item

The Orange County OUTBoard unanimously approved the August 18, 2021 minutes. The board reached consensus on the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro MPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan, adding a recommendation that Orange County collaborate with local jurisdictions to add off-street bicycle and pedestrian corridors to the plan. The board also agreed to draft a letter to staff about school traffic congestion during drop-off and pick-up, to be shared with the Board of County Commissioners.

• Approved the August 18, 2021 OUTBoard/TAS minutes unanimously
• Endorsed the DCHC MPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan with an added recommendation for off-street bike/ped corridors
• Agreed to draft a letter to staff on school traffic issues for the BOCC
• Added a discussion item on school traffic congestion to the agenda

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board will discuss and vote on changes to the Housing Choice Voucher program's administrative plan, and receive updates on voucher utilization, emergency housing vouchers, and new VASH vouchers. The board will also review its bylaws, consider board member applications, and discuss changing the meeting time. Several prior meeting minutes are up for approval, though quorum was lacking at some of those meetings.

• Vote on Housing Choice Voucher Admin Plan changes
• Update on Emergency Housing Vouchers
• Update on new VASH vouchers
• Bylaw review: change in Executive Director role, need for program participant on board
• Discussion of meeting time change to 4th Wednesday

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board met virtually and approved changes to the Housing Choice Voucher Program administrative plan, reviewed program reports and audits, and discussed future bylaw changes and board openings. The board will consider bylaw revisions and new member applications at the October meeting.

• Approved changes to the Public Housing Authority Administrative Plan
• Reviewed Housing Choice Voucher utilization and issuance reports
• Discussed Emergency Housing Vouchers and new VASH vouchers
• Reviewed audits, Two-Year Tool, VMS Report, and finance cleanup
• Planned bylaw review, including removing Executive Director as voting member

Agricultural Preservation Board

The Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board is meeting virtually to discuss agricultural preservation matters. The board will consider agenda additions, approve meeting minutes, and discuss a dairy subcommittee report and future steps for the Agricultural Trust Fund. Informational updates include ordinance revisions for state law changes, staff activities, membership, and economic development. The Voluntary Agricultural District breakfast is cancelled for 2021.

• Dairy subcommittee report and discussion
• Agricultural Trust Fund future steps
• Ordinance revisions to conform with new state law changes
• Report on activities from Jessica Perrin
• VAD Breakfast cancelled for 2021

The Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board met virtually and discussed the future of dairy farming, agreeing to have the subcommittee continue exploring feasibility and market demand. No VAD applications were approved, as none have completed all steps; some are expected to be ready for the November meeting. The board also discussed a proposed Ag Trust Fund, ordinance revisions, and staff updates, but took no formal votes due to lack of quorum.

• Continued the dairy subcommittee's work on a feasibility study and market demand analysis for local dairy.
• Deferred approval of VAD applications until the November meeting, as none are complete.
• Discussed repackaging the Ag Trust Fund as a dedicated, recurring departmental line item for advocacy with the BOCC.
• Staff will present a marked-up ordinance revision at the next meeting.
• Noted that the 2021 VAD Breakfast is cancelled due to county policy on indoor food events.
• Acknowledged that March 17 minutes are delayed due to platform transition; will be reviewed in November.

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board approved a subcommittee to develop a group sales plan targeting Sunday-Thursday business, which is struggling as organizations avoid in-person meetings. The board also heard updates on the bureau's move to 308 W. Franklin Street, a new marketing campaign for winter outdoor dining, and various local events and development projects.

• Approved subcommittee to grow Sunday-Thursday group and corporate business
• Visitors Bureau relocating to 308 W. Franklin Street, move expected December 2021
• James Taylor agreed to record a welcome video; life-size album cover provided for photos
• Rosemary Street parking deck groundbreaking; Wallace Deck office building review ongoing
• FilmFest919 scheduled October 18-24; Eno Arts Mill grand opening October 1

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board approved a subcommittee to focus on group and corporate business to grow Sunday-through-Thursday business. The board also approved the August 18, 2021 minutes. The executive director reported plans to move the bureau to 308 W. Franklin Street in December 2021 and noted that James Taylor will record a welcome video. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved August 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved subcommittee to work on group and corporate business (unanimous)

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors is meeting virtually to discuss the state of the local tourism industry and review a marketing plan for the next six months. The agenda also includes an update on North Carolina high school athletics, a report from a county commissioner, and routine items like approving minutes and new business.

• Update on North Carolina High School Athletics
• State of Orange County tourism industry
• Marketing Plan for next six months
• Special Reports and rotating updates
• Report from Board of Orange County Commissioners member Sally Greene

Advisory Board on Aging

The Orange County Advisory Board on Aging met virtually and received updates on the department's COVID-19 response, including curbside meal service, food box distribution, and virtual programming. The board discussed the upcoming 2022-27 Master Aging Plan, with community engagement events scheduled for October. Two board members volunteered to serve as delegates to the TJCOG Area Agency on Aging Board. No formal votes or policy decisions were taken.

• Vibeke Talley and James Harris volunteered to serve as delegates to the TJCOG Area Agency on Aging Board
• Board members assigned to Master Aging Plan workgroups (e.g., Jeff to Transportation, Dick to Housing, Rachel to Community Supports, Colin to Civic Participation and Employment)
• Agenda order changed to move MAP items earlier to accommodate early departures

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting to consider several proclamations, a public hearing on a transit grant application, and regular agenda items including a homeowner assistance program and potential land use and zoning amendments. The board will also review reports on the appeals process and the Mountains to Sea Trail, and handle consent agenda items such as a traffic safety project and road additions.

• Public hearing on NCDOT 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Grant application for FY 2022
• Longtime Homeowner Assistance (LHA) Program discussion
• Eno Economic Development District – potential Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map and Zoning Atlas amendments
• Approval of NC Governor's Highway Safety Program: Sheriff's Office Traffic Safety Project and Budget Amendment #1-A
• Road additions to state system for Farm Gate Drive, Fox Hill Farm Drive, Still Meadow Lane, Cedar Stone Way in Fox Hill Farm Central Subdivision

The Board unanimously postponed the Longtime Homeowner Assistance (LHA) program to the October 5 business meeting, citing technical issues. It approved three proclamations (4-H Week, Suicide Prevention Month, Preparedness Month), a $331,406 transit grant application, and a plan to rezone 112.2 acres in the Eno Economic Development District. The Board also received updates on the 2021 property tax appeals and the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

• Postponed LHA program to Oct. 5 (unanimous)
• Approved National 4-H Week proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved Suicide Prevention Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved Preparedness Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved FY2022 transit grant application ($331,406) (unanimous)
• Approved Eno EDD rezoning plan (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board will hear presentations on a Manufactured Housing Strategy Action Plan and on fair housing, followed by updates on affordable housing initiatives and board vacancies. The meeting is largely informational and discussion-focused, with no final votes scheduled.

• Manufactured Housing Strategy Action Plan presentation and discussion
• Fair housing presentation by Melvyn Blackwell
• Update on Affordable Housing Opportunities and Incentives presentation to BOCC
• Update on Collins Ridge, CASA Affordable Housing Development
• Follow-up on repurposing retail/office space for affordable housing

The Affordable Housing Advisory Board heard a presentation on the Manufactured Homes Strategy Action Plan, a countywide plan to preserve manufactured home parks, minimize resident displacement, and create relocation assistance. The board also received a fair housing presentation from the Human Rights and Relations Department and discussed updates on the Affordable Housing Opportunities and Incentives presentation to the BOCC and the CASA Collins Ridge development. No formal votes were taken on these items; the board only approved the August 10, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approved August 10, 2021 meeting minutes with a misspelled name correction (unanimous)
• Discussed Manufactured Homes Strategy Action Plan (no vote)
• Heard fair housing presentation by Melvyn Blackwell (no vote)
• Discussed BOCC affordable housing presentation update (no vote)
• Discussed CASA Collins Ridge affordable housing development update (no vote)
• Discussed AHAB vacancy and application process (no vote)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will consider approving the June 14, 2021 minutes and discuss final scores and comments on proposed projects for the FY 2021-22 Community Climate Action Grant. The meeting is virtual and includes updates on advisory board meetings remaining virtual through October 31.

• Approval of draft minutes from June 14, 2021
• Discussion of final scores and comments for FY 2021-22 Community Climate Action Grant projects
• Update: Advisory board meetings to remain virtual through October 31

The Commission for the Environment reviewed 8 applications for the Climate Action Tax Fund Round 2 and voted to submit final scores and funding recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. The recommended allocations total $268,332.50, with the top-ranked project being a $113,000 low-income HVAC replacement by Rebuilding Together of the Triangle. Three projects were recommended for partial funding, and three were not recommended for funding. The meeting also included approval of the June 14, 2021 minutes and a presentation on the Efland Industrial Park development proposal.

• Approved minutes from June 14, 2021 (motion passed, none opposed)
• Voted to submit final scores and comments on 8 Climate Action Tax Fund applications to BOCC (all in favor)
• Recommended $113,000 for Low Income HVAC Replacement (Rebuilding Together of the Triangle)
• Recommended $4,000 for Food Waste Monitor (Eno River Farmer's Market)
• Recommended $90,000 partial funding for Neighborhood Energy Resiliency Project (NC Sustainable Energy Association)
• Recommended $57,568 partial funding for 203 Project Solar PV Array and Green Roof (Town of Carrboro)
• Recommended $3,765 for Food Waste Monitor (Town of Carrboro)
• Recommended no funding for Energizing the Fleet (CHCCS), Wayfinding Implementation (Chapel Hill), and Sustainability Upgrades (Carrboro Arts Center)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual work session to discuss options for expanding affordable housing incentives and opportunities. The main item is a presentation on 22 proposed action items, including changes to zoning, development fees, and housing programs. The rest of the agenda consists of appointment discussions for various boards and committees.

• Discussion of 22 action items to expand affordable housing incentives, including density bonuses and subdivision process streamlining
• Appointment discussions for 14 boards, including Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee and Affordable Housing Advisory Board
• No direct financial impact for the affordable housing item as it is a report

The Board of County Commissioners reviewed 22 action items to expand affordable housing incentives and opportunities. By consensus, the Board agreed to move forward on short-term action items 1.1 and 1.3, mid-term items 2.1 and 2.3, and long-term items 3.1, 3.2, 3.5, 3.8, and 3.9. The Board decided to no longer pursue the voluntary density bonus (item 2.2) and did not reach consensus on items 3.3, 3.6, and 3.7, which will not be pursued at this time. The Board also made numerous appointments to advisory boards and committees.

• Approved moving forward on affordable housing action items 1.1 and 1.3 (short-term), 2.1 and 2.3 (mid-term), and 3.1, 3.2, 3.5, 3.8, 3.9 (long-term) by consensus
• Discontinued pursuit of voluntary density bonus (action item 2.2) by consensus
• Did not reach consensus on action items 3.3, 3.6, and 3.7; these will not be pursued at this time
• Appointed MaryLou Gelblum to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee by consensus
• Appointed Dion Graham to the Affordable Housing Advisory Board by consensus
• Appointed Pam C. Schwentner and Cynthia J. Stubbs to the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool by consensus
• Appointed John Garret Baker and Erle Smith to the Carrboro Board of Adjustment by consensus
• Appointed Anahid Vrana to the Carrboro Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee by consensus

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard multiple property tax appeals, adjusting assessed values for several properties and granting a tax exemption to the Sancar Foundation's Cultural Center. The board also postponed and later subpoenaed information for Community Home Trust appeals.

• Sancar Foundation granted tax-exempt status for 1609 E. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
• Herbert Horner's vacant parcel near 340 Eastwood Road reduced from $40,000 to $26,000
• Harvey Krasny's property at 120 Woodbridge Lane reduced from $191,400 to $173,500
• Roby Swan's property at 208 Cottage Lane reduced from $346,100 to $304,200
• Community Home Trust appeals subpoenaed for more information, continued to October 13, 2021

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections will meet to approve minutes, hear the director's reports on voter registration and budget, and discuss unspecified items. They will consider a voting location at Hogan Farms and recommendations for precinct official vacancies.

• Consideration of Hogan Farms voting location
• Precinct official recommendations for vacancies
• Approval of August 10, 2021 minutes
• Voter registration statistical report
• Year-to-date budget report

The Orange County Board of Elections unanimously approved keeping the Hogan Farms precinct voting location at Morris Grove Elementary for the November 2, 2021 Municipal and Chapel Hill–Carrboro City School Board Election. The board also approved precinct official vacancy appointments after a closed session, and unanimously approved the August 10, 2021 minutes. Director Raper reported 105,604 registered voters, an increase of 690 since August 10.

• Approved August 10, 2021 minutes as submitted
• Kept Hogan Farms precinct voting location at Morris Grove Elementary for Nov. 2 election
• Approved precinct official vacancy appointments as discussed
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will discuss and vote to fill the vacant District 1 seat, with four eligible applicants. The board will also hear a presentation on a public art festival and hold a public hearing on a transit grant application. Most other agenda items are routine approvals, including budget amendments, tax releases, and property transfers.

• Appointment to fill vacant BOCC District 1 seat; applicants: Marilyn Carter, Rani Dasi, Penny Rich, Anna Richards
• Public hearing on NCDOT 5311 Community Transportation Program Grant Application for FY 2023
• Approval of financing arrangements for White Cross Fire Department to purchase fire truck and equipment
• 401 Valley Forge Road annexation
• Fiscal Year 2021-22 Budget Amendment #1

The Board unanimously appointed Anna Richards to fill the vacant District 1 commissioner seat, effective until December 2022. The Board also approved the FY2023 NCDOT 5311 grant application for $187,568, and voted to hold all September and October 2021 meetings virtually.

• Appointed Anna Richards to vacant District 1 seat (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 NCDOT 5311 grant application for $187,568 (unanimous)
• Amended 2021 meeting schedule to virtual for September and October (unanimous)
• Postponed 2021 Appeals Process update to September 14 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases, budget amendment, and fire truck financing (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is holding a regular virtual meeting with only informational and approval items on the agenda. The board will review the planning calendar for September and October, approve minutes from the August 4 meeting, and take public comments. No substantive decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Review of September and October planning calendar
• Approval of August 4, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Approval of August 4, 2021 Ordinance Review Committee notes
• Approval of August 4, 2021 training notes

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual regular meeting on September 1, 2021. The board unanimously approved the August 4, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes, Ordinance Review Committee Notes, and Training Notes. No additions to the agenda were made, and no public comments were received. The meeting adjourned at 7:07 p.m.

• Approved the August 4, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes, ORC Notes, and Training Notes (unanimous).
• No additions to the agenda were made.
• No public comments were received.
• Meeting adjourned by consensus at 7:07 p.m.

Planning Board

This is a non-mandatory training session for Orange County Planning Board members, held virtually, on transportation planning in Orange County. Staff will present an overview; no decisions or votes are scheduled.

• Training session on transportation planning in Orange County
• Presenters: Tom Altieri, Comprehensive Planning Supervisor, and Nish Trivedi, Transportation Planner
• Virtual meeting via Zoom; public registration required

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual training session on September 1, 2021, focused on transportation planning in the county. Staff members Tom Altieri and Nish Trivedi presented an overview of transportation planning. No formal decisions were made during this training session, as it was informational only.

• Held a virtual training session on transportation planning (no formal action taken)

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council meets virtually to review the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030, discuss a potential neighborhood/mini-park proposal, and receive project updates. The council will also consider chair/vice-chair elections and a possible vacancy appointment.

• Review of Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030
• Potential neighborhood/mini-park proposal
• Project updates (MST, Blackwood)
• Chair/Vice-Chair elections (October?)
• October topics: Racial Equity Plan, Fairview landfill

The Parks and Recreation Council accepted the June meeting notes and discussed upcoming chair/vice-chair elections to be held in October. Staff provided information on a potential neighborhood mini park, noting the county typically does not build such parks and that property conveyance requires a statutory process; no action was taken. The council reviewed the Recreation Quarterly Report and a progress evaluation of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2030, with staff asking the council to make concrete decisions on plan items before year-end.

• Accepted the June 2nd meeting notes
• Scheduled chair/vice-chair elections for the October meeting
• Discussed a potential neighborhood mini park proposal; no action taken
• Reviewed the Recreation Quarterly Report
• Reviewed the Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2030 progress report; no decisions made

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property tax valuation appeals. The board approved revised values for 15 properties, mostly reducing assessed values based on condition, depreciation, or land adjustments, and denied one appeal. All decisions were unanimous.

• Reduced value of 210 Old Greensboro Road, Chapel Hill from $591,300 to $241,100 after fire damage
• Reduced value of 107 Stoneridge Drive, Chapel Hill from $1,025,700 to $1,006,300 due to functional obsolescence
• Reduced value of 200 Westview Drive, Carrboro from $297,700 to $221,700 with -38% land adjustment
• Reduced value of 209 Cottage Lane, Chapel Hill from $393,600 to $336,600 with increased land size adjustment
• No change in value for 620 Arlington St, Chapel Hill

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard and approved appeals on property tax valuations for 12 properties in Chapel Hill and Carrboro, all resulting in reduced assessed values. The board accepted the County's revised valuations in each case, which were based on income analysis, comparable sales, and property condition reviews.

• Chapel Hill Timberlyne LLC, 1129 Weaver Dairy Road: valuation reduced from $12,767,900 to $11,303,100
• Notting Hill Owner LLC, 100 Drew Hill Lane: valuation reduced from $29,168,400 to $26,632,400
• Marvin V. Horton ETAL, 700 Bolinwood Drive: valuation reduced from $20,693,500 to $13,591,000
• Carol Lassiter, 306 Lindsay Street: valuation reduced from $345,400 to $224,300
• Randel Riggsbee, 405 Lindsay Street: valuation reduced from $287,100 to $188,200

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard two property valuation appeals. The Board approved the County's recommended revised values for both properties, reducing the assessed value of 58 condominium units at Environs at East 54 in Chapel Hill and a commercial/residential building in Hillsborough.

• Reduced cumulative valuation of 58 condominium units at 5008-5413 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, from $11,494,700 to $10,575,100
• Reduced valuation of property at 110 S. Churton Street, Hillsborough, from $710,600 to $618,400
• Corrected second-floor finished area of the Hillsborough property from 2,208 to 1,992 square feet
• Applied an E31 economic market adjustment to the Environs at East 54 units
• Applied an E01 economic market adjustment to the Hillsborough property

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to hear property tax appeals. The board approved revised values for several properties, including reductions for some, and upheld values for others. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Reduced value of 710 E Rosemary Street, Chapel Hill from $768,700 to $673,700
• Reduced value of 307 McCauley Street, Chapel Hill from $757,800 to $574,500
• Reduced value of 1054 Canterbury Lane, Chapel Hill from $1,125,300 to $893,900
• Reduced value of 105 Dove Street, Carrboro from $384,600 to $377,400
• Reduced value of 5004 Dairyland Road, Hillsborough from $202,200 to $337,200

Climate Council

The Council will discuss the process for finalizing and approving bylaws and review a companion document. Members will also receive updates on OCCC restructuring discussions and ongoing climate action planning.

• Discussion of Bylaws and Review Process
• Update on OCCC Restructuring Discussions
• Report on Orange County’s Climate Action Planning

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board meets virtually to approve prior meeting minutes (noting no quorum at several past meetings), hear member updates, and receive the executive director's report. The main business is a discussion of Housing Choice Voucher program changes, including utilization, emergency housing vouchers, and new VASH vouchers, plus a review of proposed bylaw changes and board member applications.

• Housing Choice Voucher program: admin plan changes, utilization and voucher issuance update
• Emergency Housing Vouchers update
• New VASH (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) vouchers
• Bylaw review: change in role for Executive Director, need for program participant on board
• Board member applications and possible meeting time change to 4th Wednesday

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Board met virtually with only two members present, lacking a quorum, so no minutes were approved. Staff reported on voucher administration, including 19 new Emergency Housing Vouchers, a slowdown in voucher issuance, and financial reviews. Board members discussed affordable housing options and the future reopening of the waitlist.

• 19 EHV vouchers to be administered
• VASH voucher application due end of month
• Financial reviews: quality control and RNP/UNP reconciliation since 2016
• Voucher issuance to slow to 2-3 per month after 3-4 month cushion
• Discussion on reopening waitlist with preference for families

Orange Unified Transportation Board

The Orange County OUTBoard unanimously approved the April 21, 2021 minutes. Members received presentations on OCPT administrative updates, the DCHC MPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan, and the BGMPO Comprehensive Transportation Plan, with discussion and requests for more information at the September meeting. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved April 21, 2021 OUTBoard minutes (unanimous)

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually, approving minutes and leadership, and heard reports on tourism sales, a marketing campaign refresh, and updates from local officials. Discussions covered the impact of the Delta variant on meetings and events, a Chapel Hill housing study finding a need for young professional housing, and local COVID-related decisions.

• Two confirmed bookings since July 1 with 585 room nights, about $181,000 economic impact
• Chapel Hill housing study with UNC: need more housing for young professionals, not students
• Orange County commits $5,000,000 ARPA funds to broadband fiber project
• Rosemary Street parking deck demolished; construction to start, completion by August 2022
• New tenant to occupy 136/137 (old CVS Tower); Escape Room moving to 140 W. Plaza

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board meets virtually to approve June minutes, welcome new members, and hear a 2021/22 status report from the director. The agenda includes a tourism marketing campaign presentation, a UNC Athletics update on sports field usage, and a state-of-industry roundup with updates from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, and Orange County officials.

• Approval of June 2021 minutes
• Introduction of new board members
• Tourism Marketing Campaign presentation
• UNC Sports Fields usage discussion with John Brenner, UNC Athletics
• State of industry updates from mayors and county commissioner

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review met to consider 18 appeals, all but one of which were for untimely filed applications for property tax relief programs such as the Elderly Exclusion, Disabled Veteran Exclusion, Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment, and charitable/charter school exemptions. The Board approved all appeals unanimously, including one value appeal for a property on Friends School Road. The meeting was largely procedural, with most appellants not appearing and submitting documentation instead.

• Granted Elderly Exclusion to Nellie Thomasson, 3003 Buckhorn Road, Efland
• Granted Disabled Veteran Exclusion to Patricia Harrison, 555 Homemont Avenue, Hillsborough
• Granted Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment to Albert Harris, 4900 New Sharon Church Road, Hillsborough
• Granted Charitable Exemption to Classical American Homes Preservation Trust, 205.84 acres on Elizabeth Brady Road, Hillsborough
• Granted value appeal to Andrew Del Gaizo, 4520 Friends School Road, Durham, reducing assessed value from $1,284,200 to $990,000-$1,000,000

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard five property tax appeals, all submitted without the appellants appearing. The Board voted unanimously to accept the County's recommendations in each case, denying three appeals and approving revised valuations for two properties due to a flood plain adjustment and property condition corrections.

• Denied appeal for 3522 Bluestone CT, Chapel Hill, keeping assessed value at $484,400
• Denied appeal for 600 Perry Creek Drive, Chapel Hill, keeping assessed value at $530,400
• Approved revised value of $214,700 for 1547 Ephesus Church Road, Chapel Hill, due to 30% flood plain adjustment
• Approved revised value of $429,700 for 3 Timberlyne Road, Chapel Hill, after correcting garage size and effective year built
• Denied appeal for property on Prestwood PIN 9873907881, keeping assessed value unchanged

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review approved adjustments to property values for four individual appeals and a broad correction for East 54 condominiums based on location factors. All decisions were unanimous, and no appellants appeared in person.

• Granted elderly exclusion for Judith Dickinson's property (PIN 9873257498) despite ownership transfer after Jan 1, 2021
• Reduced AAA Home Solutions' property at 2223 Pearson Road from $55,500 to $39,700, reclassifying manufactured home as personal property
• Reduced Mark Ashley's 18.491 acres on Doe Run Road from $143,600 to $122,100 due to flood plain and shape
• Adjusted Jeffrey Fuchs' property at 1816 Ivey Road from $721,400 to $724,000 after correcting wall type and porch
• Approved value corrections for 100+ East 54 condominium units on Environ Way to reflect golf course vs. parking lot location

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. The agenda lists 19 appeals with various property values and several requests for tax compromises. The board will decide on these appeals and compromise requests.

• Appeals for properties including 320 E. Corbin Street, 201 Laurel Avenue, and 667 Heartpine Drive
• Requests for compromise of taxes: $405.01, $130.92, $205.87, $179.52, $91.64
• Appeals for business personal property from companies like Independent Roasting Company LLC and Green Enterprises Inc.
• Appealed values range from $91,640 to $1,873,300

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard 15 property tax appeals on August 11, 2021, approving revised valuations for 13 properties and granting penalty compromises for 6 businesses. All decisions were unanimous (3-0). The board accepted the County's recommended values in each case, with adjustments based on factors like utility easements, square footage corrections, and land characteristics.

• Approved revised value of $83,800 for 320 E. Corbin St (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $603,800 for 201 Laurel Ave (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $470,100 for 216 Della St (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $490,100 for 811 Long Meadows Rd (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $550,700 for 2451 Saddle Club Rd (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $218,800 for 667 Heartpine Dr (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $595,000 for 704 Sprunt St (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $372,800 for 143 Lake Ellen Dr (3-0)

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections will meet to approve minutes, hear the director's report, and take action on several election administration items. Key business includes adopting the one-stop early voting plan for the November 2, 2021 municipal and school board election, and considering precinct boundary alterations, voting location changes, a precinct name change, and appointments of precinct officials.

• Adopt One-Stop, Early Voting Plan for November 2, 2021 Municipal and Chapel Hill – Carrboro School Board Election
• Consider proposed Lion's Club, Carrboro, and Town Hall Precinct boundary alterations
• Consider voting location changes to Cedar Falls, Glenwood, and Town Hall Precincts
• Consider Cameron Park Precinct name change
• Consider and appoint 2021–2023 Precinct Officials effective August 17, 2021

The Orange County Board of Elections unanimously approved the one-stop early voting schedule for the November 2, 2021 municipal and Chapel Hill–Carrboro City School Board election, including four sites and specific hours. The board also unanimously adopted resolutions to merge the Lion's Club precinct into surrounding precincts, change the Cameron Park precinct name to Hillsborough North, and approve Election Day voting location changes. All resolutions are subject to state approval. The board approved precinct official appointments in closed session.

• Adopted early voting schedule for Nov. 2 election (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution merging Lion's Club precinct into Carrboro, Owasa, and Town Hall precincts (unanimous)
• Adopted voting location changes for Cedar Falls, Glenwood, and Town Hall precincts (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution renaming Cameron Park precinct to Hillsborough North (unanimous)
• Approved precinct official appointments as discussed (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve minutes, receive updates from board members, and hear a presentation from the Department of Housing and Community Development. They will also discuss updates to board policies and procedures and a shared Google Drive.

• Approval of June 8, 2021 minutes
• Department of Housing and Community Development updates and overview
• Affordable Housing Presentation by Director Corey Root
• AHAB Policies and Procedures update
• Shared Google Drive discussion

The Affordable Housing Advisory Board unanimously approved the June 8, 2021 meeting minutes. The board received a presentation from new OCHCD Director Corey Root on department structure, programs, and accomplishments, including emergency housing assistance serving 736 households in 2021. No formal policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussion.

• Approved June 8, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Noted new OCHCD Director Corey Root introduction
• Discussed Collins Ridge affordable housing proposal status; staff to inquire with Town of Hillsborough
• Discussed Eno Haven senior housing openings and fair housing complaints
• Discussed Ridgewood manufactured home community concerns; Congressman Price's office working on mobile home bill of rights
• Staff to research repurposing retail/office space into affordable housing
• Staff to address AHAB Google Drive access issues

Board of Adjustment

The Board held a bifurcated meeting to address two quasi-judicial cases. The session included determining legal standing for a variance request and reviewing a special use permit application for an outdoor recreational facility.

• Case A-3-20: Variance request for a 30-foot reduction to required County stream buffers on a 1-acre parcel
• Case A-4-20: Class B Special Use Permit application for two cricket fields on 16.2 acres off Old Greensboro Highway
• Case BA21-0002: Variance request from Duke Energy regarding electrical substation land use buffers
• Approval of Board minutes from December 14, 2020, January 11, 2021, and July 12, 2021

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance requested by Duke Energy to upgrade an existing electrical substation at 1910 White Cross Road, allowing development within the required 75-foot land use buffer. The approval includes conditions that the applicant work with staff to ensure the remaining buffer meets planting requirements and that there be no expansion to the north or west. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from three prior meetings and administered the Oath of Office to members.

• Approved variance BA21-0002 for Duke Energy substation upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved condition: applicant and staff to ensure remaining buffer meets planting regulations (unanimous)
• Approved condition: no expansion to the north or west (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for Dec 14, 2020; Jan 11, 2021; July 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Administered Oath of Office to Board members

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group is reconvening a recessed July 22 meeting to review and approve a revised draft report on elections-related matters. The group will vote on specific revisions and the final report, and may decide if additional follow-up or meetings are needed. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Vote to reconvene the July 22, 2021 recessed meeting and roll call for quorum
• Approval of July 22, 2021 meeting summary
• Review of any written comments received
• Review of revised draft report
• Approval of specific revisions and the revised final report

The Orange County BOCC Elections Advisory Group (BEAG) reconvened from its July 22 recessed meeting and unanimously approved the July 22 meeting summary. The group reviewed and approved specific revisions to its draft report, then unanimously approved the revised final report on county voting methods. No additional business meetings are planned, as the group completed its work.

• Reconvened from July 22 recessed meeting (unanimous)
• Approved July 22, 2021 meeting summary (unanimous)
• Approved all discussed revisions to draft report (unanimous)
• Approved revised final BEAG report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:01 pm (unanimous)

Planning Board

This is a training session for Orange County Planning Board members, not a decision-making meeting. Staff will lead training on various aspects of land use regulation. Attendance is optional and a quorum is not required. The public can view the session via Zoom registration or phone call-in.

• Training session on land use regulation led by Perdita Holtz, Planning Systems Coordinator
• Virtual meeting via Zoom; public registration required for viewing
• Phone participation available by calling (919) 245-2575

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual training session on August 4, 2021, led by staff. The session covered plans and agreements affecting planning in Orange County. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was for training purposes only.

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board's Ordinance Review Committee will review two sets of proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendments. The first concerns performance guarantees for subdivisions and stormwater management, aligning with state law and updating erosion control standards. The second would require concept plans for conditional district rezoning applications. The board is reviewing these amendments and may provide feedback; final decisions rest with the Board of County Commissioners.

• Review of UDO text amendments on performance guarantees, including updates to comply with NCGS 160D-804.1 and NC DEQ manuals
• Review of UDO text amendments to require concept plans for conditional district rezoning applications
• Proposed changes to Land Disturbing Permit timeframes and stormwater control measure requirements
• Public comments accepted via email or virtual meeting, with pre-registration required by 3:00 p.m. on meeting day

The Orange County Planning Board held an Ordinance Review Committee/training session to review proposed UDO text amendments. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion and training. The board discussed extending the performance guarantee start time from 18 months to 3 years and adding a concept plan review step for conditional district rezoning applications.

• Reviewed proposed UDO amendments on performance guarantees (no action taken)
• Reviewed proposed UDO amendments on concept plans for conditional districts (no action taken)

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is holding its regular August 4, 2021 meeting virtually. The agenda contains only routine items: a planning calendar update, approval of July minutes and training notes, and public comment periods. No substantive decisions, rezonings, or contract awards are scheduled.

• Planning calendar for August and September 2021
• Approval of July 7, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Approval of July 7, 2021 training notes
• Public comment period (pre-registration required by 3:00 p.m.)

The Orange County Planning Board met virtually and approved the minutes and training notes from its July 7, 2021 meeting by unanimous vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the agenda included only informational items, no additions, and no public comments. The meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

• Approved July 7, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and Training Notes (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. Twelve properties are scheduled, with owners appearing in person for some and not for others. The board will review appealed values assigned by appraiser Cyle.

• 423 W. Barbee Chapel Road, appealed value $600,300
• 433 W. Barbee Chapel Road, appealed value $632,200
• 928 Dimmocks Mill Road, appealed value $498,800
• 140 W. Franklin Street, Unit 415, appealed value $277,200
• 1110 Old School Road, appealed value $488,200

The Board of Equalization and Review heard 12 property tax appeals on July 29, 2021, approving revised values for 10 properties and denying changes for 2. All decisions were unanimous (3-0). One appeal was rescheduled.

• Approved revised value of $89,600 for James W. Johnson property (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $212,000 for Marguerite Most property (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $416,000 for Todd Jones property (3-0)
• Denied change for Mary Leadbetter property, kept $600,300 (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $249,500 for Donald R. Oates Jr. property (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $134,700 for Roy Brooks property at 223 Holman Dr (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $76,000 for Roy Brooks property at 221 Holman Dr (3-0)
• Denied change for Vannie Kay Hodges property, kept $632,200 (3-0)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear 15 property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year, including two denials of elderly/disabled exclusions. The board will also discuss Northside properties and consider whether to authorize adjustments. Most property owners are not appearing in person.

• Charles Alston, 117 Estes Drive Extension, appealed value $266,300
• Pardeep Puri Trust, 215 Turtleback Crossing, appealed value $757,000
• Christine Frasca, 500 Market Street #104, denial of Elderly Exclusion
• Judith Dickinson, 135 Skip Rook Road, denial of Elderly or Disabled Exclusion
• Thomas A. Farrington, 43.66 vacant tract on Old Pineview Road, appealed value $593,800

The Board of Equalization and Review approved a request to review and correct valuations for approximately 472 unappealed properties in the Northside neighborhoods (7102, 7104, 7110) after errors and inconsistencies were found. The Board also heard 15 property tax appeals, accepting the County's revised values in most cases and denying one elderly/disabled exclusion appeal. One appeal regarding an elderly/disabled exclusion was postponed for County attorney advice.

• Ordered Tax Office review of ~472 unappealed Northside properties (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $256,300 for 117 Estes Drive Ext. (3-0)
• Approved no change to $253,100 value for 137 Viburnum Way (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $739,700 for 215 Turtleback Crossing (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $444,500 for 3331 Hawk Ridge Rd. (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $247,000 for 2909 Violet Lane (3-0)
• Denied elderly/disabled exclusion appeal for 500 Market St. #104 (3-0)
• Postponed elderly/disabled exclusion appeal for 135 Skip Rook Rd. (3-0)

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group is meeting virtually to review and approve revisions to its draft report, with the goal of finalizing it for presentation to the Board of Commissioners. The agenda includes discussion of written comments, specific report revisions, and planning for the board presentation. This is a working session focused on completing the report, not a public hearing on policy decisions.

• Discussion and approval of revisions to the draft report
• Plan for report presentation to the Board of Commissioners
• Review of written comments received
• Potential need for additional follow-up or meeting based on report status

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group unanimously approved using the Jenkins draft report as the principal document, incorporating specific language from the Bryan document on election methods not pursued, at-large elections, and single-member districts. The group also agreed to delete 110 pages of voting results from the appendices and recessed the meeting to reconvene on August 5, 2021, for final report approval and to review the meeting summary.

• Approved June 24, 2021 meeting summary (unanimous)
• Approved Jenkins report as principal document with Bryan document language incorporated (unanimous)
• Agreed to exclude 110 pages of voting results from appendices, with reference under Appendix F
• Approved meeting on August 5, 2021 to approve report and July 22 meeting summary (unanimous)
• Approved recessing current meeting to reconvene August 5, 2021 via Zoom (unanimous)

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Board met virtually to receive updates on the HCV program, including new personnel, COVID-related administrative changes, and a landlord incentive program. The board also discussed filling vacancies and clarifying the Executive Director's role. No formal votes were taken due to a lack of quorum.

• Emergency Housing Assistance Program created in response to COVID, combining county and municipal rental assistance
• Landlord Incentive Program: $1,000 signing bonus, $500 renewed contracts, $200 for renewing current tenants
• 19 Emergency Housing Vouchers awarded, with $3,500 service fee per voucher
• Homeownership voucher program to be reactivated
• Board vacancies: applications received, staff to follow up on interest

Housing Authority Board

The Orange County Housing Authority Advisory Board is meeting virtually to receive updates on the Housing Choice Voucher Program, including personnel changes, utilization, and emergency housing vouchers. The board will also discuss proposed changes to its bylaws, including the Executive Director's role and adding a program participant to the board. No formal votes are listed; the agenda is primarily informational and discussion-oriented.

• Update on Housing Choice Voucher Program personnel changes
• Review of Administrative Plan changes for discussion at next meeting
• Emergency Housing Vouchers update
• Bylaw review: change in Executive Director role, adding program participant to board
• No informal hearings held this month

Board of Elections

The Board of Elections will hold an oath ceremony, elect a Secretary, and adopt meeting schedules. The Board will also discuss early voting plans and voting location changes for the November 2, 2021, municipal and school board elections.

• Election of Board Secretary
• Early voting plans for November 2, 2021, Municipal and Chapel Hill–Carrboro School Board Elections
• Review of Election Day voting locations with recommended changes
• Cameron Park Precinct name change
• Resolution to transfer Eno voters to Patterson voting location for possible October 5 primary

The Orange County Board of Elections organized, re-elected Shawnee Seese as Secretary, and approved the May 4, 2021 minutes. It adopted a one-stop early voting schedule for the October 5, 2021 Durham Municipal Primary and a resolution to transfer Eno precinct voters to Patterson precinct for that primary and the November 2, 2021 election. The board also discussed potential voting location changes and buffer zone flags, with the director to seek legal guidance.

• Re-elected Shawnee Seese as Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopted Delegation of Authority to the Director (unanimous)
• Approved May 4, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted early voting schedule for Durham Municipal Primary (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to transfer Eno precinct voters to Patterson precinct (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 meeting schedule (unanimous)

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting online to discuss restructuring its roles and processes, with workgroups reporting on proposals for future products. They will also provide guidance to the Communications Committee and set a future regular meeting time. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion of restructuring roles and process
• Workgroup reports on proposals for future products
• Guidance for Communications Committee
• Setting future regular meeting time

The Orange County Climate Council voted to move its monthly meetings to 3pm starting in August, and continued discussions on restructuring its roles and processes. The Council approved the June minutes as amended, and heard updates from workgroups on potential projects and communications strategies, but made no formal decisions on those topics.

• Approved June 16, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Decided to move future monthly meetings to 3pm starting August 2021
• Discussed restructuring proposals but took no formal action
• Heard updates from Partners Committee and Policy Working Group
• Agreed communications plan is beyond Council scope

Board of Adjustment

The Orange County Board of Adjustment is holding a regular meeting with a single substantive case: an appeal of the zoning officer's April 12, 2021 decision regarding land use buffer standards under Section 6.8 of the Unified Development Ordinance. The board will also consider agenda additions, approve minutes (deferred to August), and hear public comments. The meeting is quasi-judicial, with decisions based on evidence presented at the hearing.

• Case A-1-21: Appeal of zoning officer's April 12, 2021 letter on land use buffer standards (UDO Section 6.8)
• Public charge: rules for respectful conduct during the meeting
• Approval of minutes deferred to August 9, 2021 regular meeting

The Board of Adjustment voted 4-1 to uphold the Orange County Zoning Officer's determination that a 30-foot land use buffer is not required along the road in the Array subdivision adjacent to Alison Arter's horse farm. The board found that the text of the UDO controls over the table, and since both properties are zoned R-1, no buffer is required. The appeal was denied.

• Approved: Alison Arter has standing to appeal the zoning officer's decision (unanimous).
• Approved: Steve and Sharon Burt have standing as property owners in the case (unanimous).
• Denied: The appeal of the zoning officer's interpretation regarding the land use buffer (4-1 vote).
• Approved: Extended the meeting to 10:20pm to hear the case (unanimous).
• Approved: Extended the meeting to 10:45pm for deliberations (unanimous).
• Approved: Adjourned the meeting (unanimous).

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is holding a virtual regular meeting. The board will administer the oath of office to members, discuss solar panels, and approve the minutes from the June 2, 2021 meeting. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Oath of office administered by Clerk Laura Jensen to Planning Board members
• Discussion led by Vice Chair Adam Beeman on solar panels
• Approval of June 2, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and Training Notes
• Planning calendar for July and August presented

The Orange County Planning Board met virtually on July 7, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from the June 2, 2021 regular meeting and training notes. The board also administered the oath of office to several members, with arrangements made for those absent. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational items only.

• Approved June 2, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and Training Notes (unanimous)
• Administered Oath of Office to 10 members; arrangements made for 2 absent members

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is holding a training session for its members on various aspects of land use regulation, led by staff. Attendance is not mandatory and a quorum is not required. The meeting is virtual due to public health concerns, and the public can view it via Zoom registration.

• Training session on land use regulation led by Planning Systems Coordinator Perdita Holtz

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual training session on July 7, 2021, led by staff member Perdita Holtz. The session covered various aspects of land use regulation in Orange County. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was for training purposes only.

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization & Review is meeting to hear property tax appeals for several commercial properties on Basnight Lane. All listed appeals are for the 2021 tax year, with property owner PH Craig and appraiser Bill assigned.

• Appeal for 110 Basnight Lane, appealed value $303,800
• Appeal for 113 Basnight Lane, appealed value $300,000
• Appeal for 114 Basnight Lane, appealed value $300,000

The Board of Equalization and Review approved the County's recommended 45% reduction in land value for three parcels on Basnight Lane in Chapel Hill, lowering the assessed values from $303,800 to $168,800 for 110 North Basnight Lane, and from $300,000 to $165,000 each for 113 and 114 North Basnight Lane. The appellant withdrew an appeal for a fourth parcel at 115 S. Roberson Street. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved County's revised value of $168,800 for 110 North Basnight Lane (PIN 9788155933), based on a 45% land value reduction.
• Approved County's revised value of $165,000 for 113 North Basnight Lane (PIN 9788157912), based on a 45% land value reduction.
• Approved County's revised value of $165,000 for 114 North Basnight Lane (PIN 9788155884), based on a 45% land value reduction.
• Withdrew appeal for parcel 9788154768 at 115 S. Roberson Street, Chapel Hill, per appellant's request.

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear two commercial property tax appeals from M M Fowler Inc. The board will consider the appealed values for properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Weaver Dairy Road.

• Appeal of 1201 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, appealed value $509,100
• Appeal of 618 Weaver Dairy Road, appealed value $959,400
• Both appeals are for tax year 2021

The Board of Equalization and Review approved the County's recommended valuations for two M.M. Fowler Inc. properties. For 1201 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, the value was reduced from $509,100 to $456,500. For 618 Weaver Dairy Road, the land value was reduced to $627,000, making the total property value $926,400.

• Approved reducing the assessed value of 1201 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Chapel Hill, from $509,100 to $456,500.
• Approved reducing the land value of 618 Weaver Dairy Road, Chapel Hill, to $627,000, with a total revised property value of $926,400.

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a virtual work session to receive an update on the Orange County Broadband Task Force, which is working toward issuing a request for proposals for a fiber network using $5,000,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds. The board will also enter a closed session to consult with the county attorney and discuss economic development incentives. The meeting is a special virtual work session, not a regular business meeting.

• Broadband Task Force update on progress toward RFP for 'future proof' fiber network
• Closed session to consult with attorney and discuss economic development incentives
• $5,000,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated for broadband in FY21-22 Budget
• Task Force has held nine meetings since March 3, 2021

The Board received an update on the Orange County Broadband Task Force's progress, including plans to issue a request for proposals (RFP) for a fiber network using $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds. No formal decisions were made on the broadband project; the Board discussed next steps and entered closed session to consult with attorneys and discuss economic development incentives. The meeting adjourned after reconvening.

• Entered closed session at 8:04 p.m. to consult with attorneys and discuss economic development incentives (unanimous).
• Reconvened into regular session at 9:54 p.m. (unanimous).
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:54 p.m. (unanimous).

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group is meeting virtually to review survey results and member perspectives, develop draft scenarios, and discuss finalizing recommendations. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom registration.

• Review and discussion of SurveyMonkey results
• Development of draft scenarios for group consideration
• Discussion on finalizing recommendations
• Potential need for additional meetings

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group voted 12-1 to recommend seven single-member residency districts for county commissioner elections, replacing the current system. It also unanimously approved motions declaring the current election system unacceptable and recommending an independent advisory group to draw the districts, plus public meetings and a 2022 referendum. The group reviewed SurveyMonkey results (413 responses) and discussed options but made no other final decisions.

• Approved motion stating current BOCC election system is unacceptable and unsatisfactory (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation for seven single-member residency districts, voted on by district voters in primary and general elections (12-1, Dancy opposed)
• Approved motion to recommend an independent multi-partisan/non-partisan advisory group to create the seven districts (unanimous)
• Approved motion to recommend public meetings and a 2022 referendum on any proposed election plan (unanimous)
• Approved May 27, 2021 meeting summary (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting in person to hear four property tax appeals. Three appeals concern the valuation of lots owned by Joseph P. Riddle III, each appealed at $300,000. One appeal concerns a denial of an elderly or disabled exclusion for a property owned by Kathryn H. Newell.

• Appeal of denial of Elderly or Disabled Exclusion for 8 Bolin Heights Terrace, owner Kathryn H. Newell
• Appeal of $300,000 value for Lot 4, Yates Motor Company Alley, owner Joseph P. Riddle III
• Appeal of $300,000 value for Lot 5, Yates Motor Company Alley, owner Joseph P. Riddle III
• Appeal of $300,000 value for Lot 2, N. Basnight Lane, owner Joseph P. Riddle III

The Board of Equalization and Review deferred a decision on Kathryn Newell's appeal for an Elderly or Disabled Exclusion until receiving legal guidance on 'equitable rights.' The Board also approved a 45% reduction in assessed value for three vacant lots owned by Joseph and Trina Riddle, lowering each from $300,000 to $165,000.

• Deferred Newell exclusion appeal pending County attorney guidance (3-0)
• Approved $165,000 assessed value for each of three Riddle lots (3-0)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review will hear 10 property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. Each appeal concerns the assessed value of a specific property, with values ranging from $277,200 to $1,538,900. The board will decide whether to uphold or adjust these values based on the evidence presented.

• Appeal of 134 W. Margaret Lane, value $477,300, owner William D Payne III
• Appeal of 1010 S. Columbia Street, value $1,538,900, owner Grantham Merritt LLC
• Appeal of 2712 Creek Run Court, value $1,263,800, owner Wuwei Feng
• Appeal of 109 Cross Creek Drive, value $1,039,900, owner Chunqin Deng
• Appeal of 103 Siler's Fen Court, value $918,200, owner Douglas Longman

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard 10 property tax appeals on June 22, 2021. The Board approved revised assessed values for four properties, including a reduction from $477,300 to $405,900 for a Hillsborough home and a reduction from $733,100 to $558,000 for a Chapel Hill home. The Board upheld the County's current assessed values for the remaining six properties, finding no valid evidence to support reductions.

• Approved revised value of $405,900 for 134 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough (3-0)
• Upheld value of $918,200 for 103 Siler's Fen Court, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Upheld value of $811,300 for 26 Whitley Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Upheld value of $277,200 for 106 Covington Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Upheld value of $1,263,800 for 2712 Creek Run Court, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $720,500 for 1010 S. Columbia Street, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $384,200 for 215 Hillsborough Street, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Upheld value of $1,039,900 for 109 Cross Creek Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting to discuss a proposal to restructure the council to clarify its work, and to provide guidance to the Communications Committee on next steps. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and routine announcements. No public comment is scheduled.

• Discussion of proposal to restructure the Climate Council
• Guidance for Communications Committee on next steps
• Approval of meeting minutes from May 20, 2021
• Land acknowledgement of historic Indigenous lands

The Council discussed a proposal to restructure its three committees into flexible working groups focused on three audiences: Community, Local Governments, and Partnerships. No formal decision was made, but there was general agreement on the concept. The Council also heard updates on the Communications Committee's work and the second round of Community Climate Action Grants.

• Approved the May 20, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Discussed, but did not vote on, a proposal to restructure committees into audience-based working groups.
• Heard that the Communications Committee interns need no further direction on the Yale SASSY survey process.
• Announced the second round of Community Climate Action Grants, with half of funds set aside for k-12 school projects.

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually to hear presentations on the county budget and American Rescue Plan funds, and a campaign refresh. Members also discussed recovery of lodging revenue, labor shortages, and upcoming events. The board approved the May minutes and heard updates on arts grants, downtown business changes, and COVID-19 precautions.

• Orange County Arts Commission awarded $134,150 in 175 relief grants, including 16 to nonprofits
• New 'Restart the Arts Grants' proposal approved from ARPA funds
• Chapel Hill to approve Putt Putt Fun Center and final vote on new parking deck
• Estes Drive Connectivity Project begins in July, one-way traffic for over a year
• I-40 widening from 15-501 to 85 merge slated to start September

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors is meeting virtually to discuss recovery from COVID-19, including a presentation on lessons learned and future navigation, a marketing plan for recovery, and updates from county commissioners. The board will also handle routine items like approving minutes and discussing new business, including board leadership and open seats.

• Discussion of 'Orange County Today, Learning from COVID, Navigating our Future' by Deputy County Manager Travis Myren
• Marketing Plan Road to Recovery presented by Clean, Inc.
• Update from Board of Orange County Commissioners by Sally Greene
• Discussion of board chair and vice chair for new year
• Discussion of open board seats and potential in-person meeting in September

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. Ten appeals are scheduled, with six properties owned by NC 10 Properties LLC and the rest by individual owners. The board will review appealed values and decide whether to adjust assessments.

• Six appeals by NC 10 Properties LLC for lots on Station Road, appealed values $17,600–$49,900
• Appeal by James L. Carter for 1.03 acres on Deer Hill Lane, appealed value $10,000
• Appeal by James L. Carter for 4.86 acres on Allen Lane, appealed value $16,300
• Appeal by Linda D. Gwinn for Lot 26, S. Tenth Street, appealed value $30,000
• Appeal by Sydonia Kaplan for 8205 Huntsman Court, appealed value $302,600

The Board of Equalization and Review heard five appeals from NC Properties LLC regarding Station Road properties, all of which were denied with no change in value. The board also approved revised valuations for properties owned by James Carter, Linda Gwinn, and Sydonia Kaplan, based on county appraiser recommendations. The meeting adjourned at 1:40 PM.

• Denied NC Properties LLC appeal for PIN 9883843215, keeping value at $17,600.
• Denied NC Properties LLC appeal for PIN 9883830869, keeping value at $36,500.
• Denied NC Properties LLC appeal for PIN 9883833777, keeping value at $45,900.
• Denied NC Properties LLC appeal for PIN 9883835647, keeping value at $22,000.
• Denied NC Properties LLC appeal for PIN 9883840362, keeping value at $49,900.
• Approved revised value of $9,800 for James Carter's property (PIN 9884414278).
• Approved revised value of $93,800 for Linda Gwinn's property (PIN 9825311970).
• Approved revised value of $21,600 for Linda Gwinn's property (PIN 9825312726).

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will consider approving the FY2021-22 budget ordinance, fee schedule, and a $50,915,167 capital improvement plan, along with allocations of American Rescue Plan Act funds. The board will also hold public hearings and discuss the One Orange County Racial Equity Plan. Several proclamations and recognitions are on the agenda, including for retiring Deputy Director Paul Laughton and Pride Month.

• Approval of FY2021-22 Budget Ordinance, County Grant Projects, and County Fee Schedule
• Approve $50,915,167 for FY2021-22 Orange County Overall CIP Projects
• American Rescue Plan Act Funding Allocations
• Extension of 2021 Formal Appeals Period
• Construction Bid Award for Blackwood Farm Park Phase II Construction

The Board approved the FY2021-22 budget ordinance, grant projects, and fee schedule (6-1), and accepted the five-year Capital Investment Plan with $50.9 million for FY2021-22 (6-1). It also allocated $12.4 million in ARPA funds with an added $100,000 for the Arts Commission (5-2), and extended the formal property tax appeals period to September 1, 2021 (unanimous). A request to exceed the ABC General Manager's salary limit failed for lack of a second.

• Adopted FY2021-22 Budget Ordinance, County Grant Projects, and Fee Schedule (6-1)
• Accepted Five-Year CIP and approved $50,915,167 for FY2021-22 projects (6-1)
• Approved ARPA fund allocation of $12,366,261 with $100,000 added for Arts Commission (5-2)
• Extended formal property tax appeals period to September 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Denied ABC Board request to exceed General Manager salary limit (motion failed, no second)
• Approved process for filling Commissioner vacancy with application deadline July 19 (unanimous)
• Endorsed petition to rename UNC Student Stores after James Cates (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including contracts, leases, and appointments (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization & Review is meeting to hear and decide property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. The agenda lists 10 properties with owners appearing or not, including appealed values and assigned appraisers. Most items are individual assessment appeals.

• Rachel E. Foster, 273 Sweet Bay Place, appealed value $374,300
• Stephen R. Quint, 2319 Celastrus Drive, appealed value $237,000
• Matthew M. Laughon, 3 Briarbridge Lane, appeal heard
• Joseph Thomas Edwards, 103 Bennington Drive, appealed value $191,900
• Dahlia Sheldon, 701 Sprunt Street, appealed value $532,300

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard eight property value appeals on June 15, 2021. For each appeal, the Board unanimously accepted the County's recommended revised value, with votes of 3-0. The revised values ranged from $185,000 to $693,100, and all decisions were based on corrections to property characteristics such as square footage, quality grade, effective year built, or flood plain adjustments.

• Approved revised value of $363,600 for Rachel Foster's property at 273 Sweet Bay Place, Carrboro (3-0)
• Approved no change in value for Dahlia Sheldon's property at 701 Sprunt Street, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $324,900 for Sandra Walker's property at 126 South Graham Street, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $588,300 for Theodore and Holly Diggs' property at 227 Abbot Place, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $185,000 for Teresa McCrimmon and Charlotte Baldwin's property at 104 Creel Street, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $191,300 for Joseph Edwards' property at 103 Bennington Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $190,500 for Stephen Quint's property at 2319 Celastrus Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $693,100 for Matthew Laughon's property at 3 Briarbridge Lane, Chapel Hill (3-0)

Commission for the Environment

The Commission for the Environment voted unanimously to meet on August 9 to review and rank Climate Action Tax Fund grant applications. They discussed the Board of County Commissioners' decision to divert 50% of the climate tax to school districts, noting it departs from the original purpose of serving the poorest residents. It was decided to discuss this further at a later meeting. The commission also approved the April 12 draft minutes and received updates on sub-committee activities and the Buckhorn Area Study.

• Approved the draft minutes from April 12, 2021, with no opposition.
• Voted unanimously to meet on August 9 to review Climate Action Tax Fund grant applications.
• Decided to discuss the diversion of 50% of climate tax to school districts at a later meeting.
• Received updates on CFE activities and sub-committee breakouts.
• Heard an update on the Buckhorn Area Study and BOCC review.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:04 pm.

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to handle routine business: approving minutes, receiving updates from members and staff, and acting on several administrative items. The board will appoint a new member to fill a vacancy, elect a Chair and Vice Chair, and adopt updated policies and procedures. It will also review a standard presentation about the board.

• Appoint new AHAB member to fill vacancy (open since 5/19/21)
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Adoption of updated AHAB Policies and Procedures
• Share standard AHAB presentation

The Affordable Housing Advisory Board approved minutes from February and May, elected new officers, and revised its membership diversity policy. The board also heard updates on housing programs, including new Emergency Housing Vouchers and the HOPE Program reopening.

• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes (Salvi abstained)
• Approved May 13, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Jenn Sykes as Chair, Douglas Boemker as Vice Chair, Olivia Fischer as back-up Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Adopted revised policy Section III.B.2 to require membership reflect County diversity (demographic, geographic, cultural, professional)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization & Review meets to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. Thirteen properties are scheduled, with owners appearing in person for some and not for others. The board will review appealed values ranging from $179,600 to $1,035,200.

• 13 property tax appeals scheduled for 2021 tax year
• Highest appealed value: $1,035,200 for 115 Glenhaven Drive
• Lowest appealed value: $179,600 for 131 Lantern Way
• Owner appearances: 4 yes, 9 no
• Properties on Patterson Place W, Pinehurst Drive, and Environ Way included

The Board of Equalization and Review heard 11 property valuation appeals on June 8, 2021. All appeals were resolved by accepting the County's recommended revised values, with the exception of one appeal where no change was recommended. All decisions were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved revised value of $166,100 for 131 Lantern Way, Carrboro (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $361,400 for 105 Richland Court, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $553,300 for 102 Commons Way, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $428,000 for 415 Patterson Place West, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $207,100 for 419 Patterson Place West, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $403,700 for 413 Patterson Place West, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $395,000 for 2511 Environ Way, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $1,030,500 for 115 Glenhaven Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual budget work session to discuss and make decisions on the FY2021-22 operating budget, including funding for schools, the five-year capital investment plan, the county fee schedule, and tax rates. The board will also consider a resolution of intent to adopt the operating budget at its June 15 business meeting. This is a decision-making session following public hearings and staff presentations.

• Funding decisions on FY2021-22 Operating Budget Amendment List
• Funding decisions for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools (per pupil current expense)
• Accept FY2021-26 Capital Investment Plan and approve intent to adopt capital funding for FY2021-22
• Discussion and decisions on FY2021-22 County Fee Schedule
• Discussion and decisions on FY2021-22 tax rates (ad valorem, school special district, fire district)

The Orange County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution of intent to adopt the FY2021-22 operating budget, setting the ad valorem tax rate at 81.87 cents per $100 and the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools District Tax at 18.30 cents. The board approved a per-pupil allocation of $4,367 for local schools, totaling $89,353,187, and moved the Durham Technical Community College Orange County Campus building to Years 6 and 7 of the Capital Investment Plan. Several amendments were approved, including $70,000 for a small business center position, a 5.6% reduction to the Chapel Hill Library contribution, and $250,000 for tax assistance for residents at or below 80% AMI. The board also approved the FY2021-26 Capital Investment Plan and the FY2021-22 County Fee Schedule.

• Approved resolution of intent to adopt FY2021-22 operating budget (6-1)
• Set ad valorem tax rate at 81.87 cents per $100 of assessed valuation (unanimous)
• Approved per-pupil allocation of $4,367 for local schools (unanimous)
• Moved Durham Tech Orange County Campus building to Years 6-7 of CIP (4-3)
• Approved $70,000 for small business center position at Durham Tech (4-3)
• Reduced Chapel Hill Library contribution by 5.6% ($31,816) (5-2)
• Set aside $250,000 for tax assistance for residents at or below 80% AMI (unanimous)
• Approved FY2021-26 Capital Investment Plan and FY2021-22 fee schedule (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual budget public hearing and work session. They will receive a presentation on the County Manager's recommended FY 2021-22 budget and discuss a list of 22 action items to expand affordable housing incentives, including zoning changes and housing programs. The board will also discuss appointments to several advisory boards and consider requests for American Rescue Plan Act funds.

• Presentation of County Manager's Recommended FY 2021-22 Budget
• Discussion on County Departments' Requests for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds
• Options to Expand Affordable Housing Incentives and Opportunities (22 action items)
• Appointment discussions for Affordable Housing Advisory Board, Agricultural Preservation Board, Animal Services Advisory Board, Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitor's Bureau, Parks and Recreation Council, and Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee

The Board held a public hearing on the FY 2021-22 budget and discussed the County Manager's recommended budget, including a proposed three-cent property tax increase. They also reviewed three approaches for allocating $28.8 million in ARPA funds, with no final decisions made. The Board tabled most agenda items, including several board appointments, until the June 8 work session, and only appointed Paul Voss to the Affordable Housing Advisory Board.

• Appointed Paul Voss to the Affordable Housing Advisory Board (At-Large, partial term to 06/30/2023)
• Tabled remaining agenda items (Agricultural Preservation, Animal Services, Visitors Bureau, Parks and Recreation, Adult Care Home appointments) until June 8, 2021
• Opened and closed the public hearing on the FY22 recommended budget (unanimous votes)
• Heard presentation on County Manager's recommended FY 2021-22 budget, including a proposed 3-cent tax increase
• Discussed three approaches for allocating $28.8 million in ARPA funds; no decision made
• Postponed affordable housing incentives discussion to a fall BOCC meeting
• Noted Commissioner Dorosin's resignation effective July 31, 2021

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council is meeting virtually to discuss new business including a status report on Fairview Park's landfill and a draft framework for the countywide racial equity plan. They will also review a draft letter on pickleball/tennis and receive a written recreation quarterly report. The meeting includes routine items like approving the previous meeting summary and discussing a council vacancy.

• Fairview Park Landfill Status Report
• Countywide Racial Equity Plan Draft Framework
• Pickleball/Tennis Draft Letter
• Recreation Quarterly Report (written)
• Council vacancy / potential appointment

The Parks and Recreation Council unanimously (8-0) voted to recommend Kevin Mason for appointment to fill the At Large vacancy on the council. Staff reported that the Fairview Park landfill assessment will likely recommend a cap-and-fill approach, allowing surface uses like soccer fields and trails but not subsurface activities. The council also discussed the Countywide Racial Equity Plan draft framework and noted that tennis court restriping for pickleball will proceed at an additional cost of $1,200.

• Approved sending Kevin Mason to the Board of County Commissioners for potential appointment to the PRC (8-0)
• Accepted the May 5th meeting summary
• Noted that pickleball court restriping will move forward at a cost of $1,200
• Discussed Fairview Park landfill status report; final report expected in fall with cap-and-fill recommendation
• Discussed Countywide Racial Equity Plan draft framework; community outreach and public hearing planned for fall
• Deferred Recreation Quarterly Report to next meeting due to staff shortages
• Noted Blackwood Farm Park construction to begin mid-to-late July, with park likely closing after July 4th

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization & Review meets to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. One owner (Sarah H. Cross) is scheduled to appear in person; the other five appeals will be considered without the owner present. The board will review appealed values ranging from $87,318 to $375,471.

• 314 W. Queen St — Sarah H. Cross, appealed value $263,900 (owner appearing)
• 506 Oteys Road — Waheed Haq, appealed value $288,000
• Lot 1, Highrock Road — Bobby Gene Harris, appealed value $87,318
• 3814 Kenwood Drive — Kimberly R. Murray, appealed value $198,700
• 3616 Laws Store Road — 3616 Laws Store Road LLC, appealed value $375,471

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard six property tax appeals on June 2, 2021. The board denied one appeal (Sarah Cross, 314 West Queen Street) and approved county-recommended value reductions for five others, including properties owned by Waheed Haq, Bobby and Terry Harris, Kimberly Murray, 3616 Laws Store Road LLC, and James Medlin. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Denied Sarah Cross's appeal, keeping $263,900 valuation (3-0)
• Approved reducing Waheed Haq's property to $80,000 (3-0)
• Approved reducing Bobby and Terry Harris's property to $69,854 (3-0)
• Approved reducing Kimberly Murray's property to $172,500 (3-0)
• Approved reducing 3616 Laws Store Road LLC's property to $327,171 (3-0)
• Approved reducing James Medlin's property to $88,200 (3-0)

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is meeting virtually to review and take action on a concept plan for the Pyewacket major subdivision, a 2-lot subdivision on 70.79 acres in Bingham Township, with 93 habitable lots in Chatham County. The board will also approve minutes from the May 5 meeting and receive the planning calendar. Public comments are accepted via email or virtual speaking with pre-registration.

• Pyewacket subdivision concept plan: 2-lot subdivision on 70.79 acres (PIN 9757-51-3504) in Bingham Township, south of Jones Ferry and Ferguson Roads, straddling Orange-Chatham county line
• Proposal includes new public road and open space dedication; 93 habitable lots in Chatham County
• Approval of May 5, 2021 regular meeting minutes and training notes
• Planning calendar for June and July 2021

The Orange County Planning Board met virtually and unanimously approved the May 5, 2021 regular meeting minutes and training notes. No substantive decisions were made; the board heard updates on plans to resume in-person meetings starting August 2021 and discussed a county program evaluation of the Planning Department.

• Approved May 5, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and Training Notes (unanimous)

Planning Board

This is a non-mandatory training session for Orange County Planning Board members, led by staff on various aspects of land use regulation. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda is procedural and informational only.

• Training session on land use regulation led by Planning Systems Coordinator Perdita Holtz
• Virtual meeting via Zoom due to public health concerns
• Public can view via Zoom registration or phone call-in

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual training session on land use regulations, led by Planning Systems Coordinator Perdita Holtz. No formal decisions were made. Vice-Chair Adam Beeman requested that a discussion on solar panels be added to the next agenda.

• Training session on land use regulations held (no vote)
• Solar panel discussion requested for next agenda

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting to consider several items, including an opioid litigation memorandum of agreement, proclamations for South Orange Rescue Squad Day and Juneteenth, and a consent agenda with budget amendments and a lease purchase agreement for iPads. The board will also receive reports on the Buckhorn Area Study and discuss upcoming budget hearings and work sessions.

• Opioid Litigation Memorandum of Agreement
• Proclamation designating June 11, 2021 as South Orange Rescue Squad Day
• Resolution supporting Juneteenth 2021
• Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget Amendment #13
• Lease Purchase Agreement with Apple Financial Services for iPads

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual work session to review and discuss the recommended FY 2021-22 operating budgets for departments in the Human Services and Community Services functional teams. This includes operations, capital projects, and proposed fee schedule changes. The board will hear directly from departments, Cardinal Innovations, and Sportsplex, and may provide direction to staff. No final votes are scheduled; this is a discussion item.

• Human Services departments: Aging, Health, Social Services, Housing and Community Development, Library Services
• Community Services departments: Animal Services, Solid Waste, Planning and Inspections, Transportation, Sportsplex
• Economic Development budget includes Article 46 Sales Tax Fund
• Fee schedule changes are part of the discussion
• No financial impact from the discussion itself

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a virtual budget work session to review recommended FY2021-22 budgets for Human Services and Community Services departments. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion and staff presentations. Key topics included the discontinuation of the Wastewater Treatment Program, a 5% operating budget cut for some departments, and the use of ARPA funds to offset costs.

• Reviewed FY2021-22 recommended budgets for Human Services and Community Services departments
• Discussed discontinuation of Wastewater Treatment Program, saving operating costs and resident fees
• Noted 5% operating budget cuts for Aging, Library, Human Rights and Relations, Animal Services, Cooperative Extension, and Planning and Inspections
• Discussed use of ARPA funds to offset net County cost increase
• Commissioner Dorosin requested a 5% reduction in Chapel Hill Library contribution
• Discussed potential tax increase and use of ARPA funds to avoid it
• Agreed to continue Manager-recommended outside agency funding process
• Adjourned meeting at 10:02 p.m.

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group is meeting virtually to discuss and finalize plans for gathering public input, including approving a draft survey and considering additional methods like public hearings. They will also identify remaining tasks and set a timeline for completing their recommendations.

• Review draft SurveyMonkey survey for public input
• Vote on final survey content and revisions
• Discuss and approve plans to generate survey responses
• Consider additional public input methods (e.g., public hearing, written/recorded input)
• Set timeline for remaining tasks and possible additional meetings

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group unanimously approved a revised SurveyMonkey to gather public input on election methods, including single-member districts, multi-member districts, and at-large seats. The group also unanimously approved adding a standing agenda item for receiving public written comments. The survey is expected to launch in early June for two weeks, with results available for the June meeting.

• Approved updated SurveyMonkey with geographic and open-ended question additions (unanimous)
• Approved adding public written comments item to all future agendas (unanimous)
• Approved April 22, 2021 meeting summary (unanimous)
• Extended meeting to discuss survey distribution plans
• Noted report deadline extended to August 15, 2021

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review is meeting to hear property tax appeals for the 2021 tax year. The agenda includes several scheduled appeals from property owners, one denial of a charitable exemption, and a request to compromise back taxes. Some property owners are not appearing, and one is uncertain.

• Appeal of denial of charitable exemption for 4400 Highland Farm Road (Carrie Turich Taylor)
• Appealed value of $428,900 for 5401 Couch Mountain Road (Jon K. Ward)
• Appealed value of $260,800 for 325 W. Queen Street (Chris J. Wachholz)
• Appealed value of $489,600 for 915 Dimmocks Mill Road (Nitya Fiorentino)
• Request to compromise taxes of $280.77 for Parker Farms business personal property (2020-2016)

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review heard nine appeals and one tax penalty request. It denied a charitable exemption for the 30SH Hai Foundation, denied one valuation appeal, and approved revised assessed values for six properties. It also waived listing penalties for Parker Farms.

• Denied charitable exemption for 30SH Hai Foundation at 4400 Highland Farm Road (3-0)
• Denied valuation appeal for 5401 Couch Mountain Road, Durham; value kept at $428,900 (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $219,700 for 325 West Queen Street, Hillsborough (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $272,800 for 1611 US 15 501 South, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $424,200 for 915 Dimmocks Mill Road, Chapel Hill (3-0)
• Denied valuation change for 1447 Preston Springs Lane, Chapel Hill; value kept at $687,100 (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $265,900 for 132 Weatherhill Pointe, Carrboro (3-0)
• Approved revised value of $38,000 for 2 Kendall Drive, Chapel Hill (3-0)

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting to discuss and potentially approve its bylaws, receive updates from its BHI and Policy committees, and consider a request from its Communications Committee. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and announcements.

• Discussion of bylaws
• Update from BHI Committee
• Update from Policy Committee
• Request from Communications Committee

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual budget work session to discuss the FY 2021-22 recommended budget. They will review proposed tax rate increases for six fire districts and discuss departmental budgets for Public Safety, General Government, and Support Services, including operations, capital, and fee schedule changes. The board will provide direction to staff but no final decisions are expected at this session.

• Fire district tax rate increases: Damascus and Southern Triangle to 10.80 cents, Efland to 7.28, Little River to 6.39, Orange Rural to 9.49, White Cross to 12.34 per $100 valuation
• Little River Fire District requests $80,000 from fund balance for fire engine down payment; Orange Rural requests $50,000 for equipment replacement
• No wage increase for FY2021-22; merit pay resumes at FY2019-20 levels; living wage increases to $15.40/hour
• County retirement contribution rates increase: LEOs to 12.10%, others to 11.35% of compensation
• No increase to health, dental, or vision insurance premiums for employees or retirees

The Board of County Commissioners held a virtual budget work session to discuss FY2021-22 fire district tax rate increases and department budgets. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion and review. Fire districts requesting rate increases presented their needs, and staff reviewed recommended budgets for public safety, general government, and support services.

• No formal decisions made; work session only
• Discussed fire district tax rate increase requests for FY2021-22
• Reviewed recommended budgets for public safety, general government, and support services
• Discussed employee pay and benefits plan, including no wage increase and merit pay resumption
• Discussed living wage increase to $15.40 per hour effective October 1, 2021

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually to discuss tourism recovery, hear a presentation on UNC athletics' pandemic response, and receive updates from local officials. The board approved minutes, nominated members to an advisory board, and discussed a proposed task force on mid-week marketing.

• Tourism revenues projected at 80% of 2018-2019 levels for 2021-2022
• Sheraton reopening August 2, 2021, adding 168 rooms and 20,000 sq ft of space
• Mold remediation at Visitors Bureau relocation site (308 E. Franklin) approved by County Commissioners
• UNC athletics budgeted at 60% stadium capacity for fall, expecting significant financial loss
• Chapel Hill to receive $10.2 million in ARPA funds over two years

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors is meeting virtually to approve April 2021 minutes and receive updates on tourism and travel planning for 2021, a Tar Heel Sports 2021/22 presentation, the marketing plan, and community updates from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough. The agenda is largely informational, with no votes or contracts listed.

• Approval of April 2021 minutes
• Tourism and Travel Planning 2021 update
• Tar Heel Sports 2021/22 presentation by Rick Steinbacher
• Marketing Plan presentation by Clean, Inc.
• Updates from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough on festivals and events

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on amendments to the Minimum Housing Standards Ordinance, which has not been updated since 1984. The changes aim to bring the ordinance into compliance with state law Chapter 160D and add new standards for heating, basements, and enforcement. The board will also consider several other items, including a $2.5 million affordable housing bond sale and renaming two streets.

• Public hearing on Minimum Housing Standards Ordinance amendments (ORD-2021-015)
• Approval of $2,500,000 Affordable Housing General Obligation Bond Sale
• Resolution to rename Braxton Bragg Court to Hydrangea Court
• Resolution to rename Joseph Johnston Court to Water Oak Court
• Resolution to disengage from Cardinal Innovations Healthcare and realign with Alliance Health

The Board approved amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance and related documents to conform to new state legislation (Chapter 160D), with a 6-1 vote. The Board also approved a resolution to disengage from Cardinal Innovations and realign with Alliance Health for behavioral health services, and accepted school facility needs reports. Several other items were approved on the consent agenda, including bond resolutions and street renamings.

• Approved UDO and Comprehensive Plan amendments for 160D compliance (6-1)
• Approved resolution to disengage from Cardinal Innovations and realign with Alliance Health (unanimous)
• Accepted school facility needs reports from CHCCS and OCS (unanimous)
• Approved $2.5M affordable housing bond sale (consent)
• Approved $45M installment financing for capital projects (consent)
• Approved renaming Braxton Bragg Court to Hydrangea Court (consent)
• Approved renaming Joseph Johnston Court to Water Oak Court (consent)
• Approved appointments to Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual budget work session to discuss the FY 2021-22 recommended funding for Durham Technical Community College, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, and Orange County Schools. The total education funding in the recommended budget is $117,837,622, or 48.7% of General Fund revenues. The board will review enrollment projections, per-pupil funding, capital plans, and outside agency funding, and may provide direction to staff.

• Total education funding: $117,837,622 (48.7% of General Fund revenues)
• School districts request per-pupil increases: CHCCS +$650.39, OCS +$357
• School debt service: $23,738,246 (increase of $5,440,689 from FY 2020-21)
• Durham Tech Orange County Campus: $777,092 current expense, $75,000 recurring capital, $264,500 debt service
• Supplemental deferred maintenance: $30M over three years for school districts

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a virtual budget work session to discuss FY 2021-22 education funding and outside agency allocations. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion only. The recommended budget includes $116.7 million for local school districts and $1.82 million for outside agencies, with the latter funded entirely by one-time ARPA funds. Commissioners discussed concerns about over-budgeting for school enrollment and potential uses of ARPA funds.

• No formal decisions made; work session only
• Discussed $116.7M recommended school funding for FY 2021-22
• Discussed $1.82M outside agency funding, funded by ARPA
• Discussed potential use of ARPA funds for Durham Tech and Small Business Center
• Commissioner Dorosin requested further study on school budget overestimates

Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve minutes, receive updates from the housing department, and conduct routine business. Key actions include appointing new members, electing a chair and vice chair, and adopting updated board policies and procedures.

• Adoption of updated AHAB Policies and Procedures
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• New member appointments
• Approval of February 9, 2021 minutes

The Orange County Affordable Housing Advisory Board met virtually on May 13, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no formal decisions were made. Approval of the February 9 minutes, election of Chair and Vice Chair, and adoption of updated policies and procedures were all tabled until the next meeting. The board received updates on the American Rescue Plan funding request ($4 million per year for four years for Emergency Housing Assistance), a countywide Manufactured Housing Strategy, and advocacy around property tax inequities in historically African-American neighborhoods.

• Tabled approval of February 9, 2021 minutes due to lack of quorum
• Tabled election of Chair and Vice Chair due to lack of quorum
• Tabled adoption of updated AHAB Policies and Procedures due to lack of quorum

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual public hearing and work session to present the County Manager's Recommended FY 2021-22 Budget and the FY 2021-26 Capital Investment Plan. The board will also discuss appointments to multiple advisory boards and consider options to expand affordable housing incentives.

• Public hearing on FY 2021-22 budget and FY 2021-26 Capital Investment Plan
• Appointment discussion for Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee (Alison Brown recommended)
• Appointment discussions for 12 other boards including Affordable Housing Advisory Board and Planning Board
• Discussion on options to expand affordable housing incentives and opportunities

The Board of County Commissioners held a virtual public hearing on the County Manager's recommended FY 2021-22 budget of $279.2 million, which includes a property tax rate increase and use of $3.2 million in ARPA funds. No budget vote was taken; the board will consider amendments before adoption in June. The board also tabled an affordable housing item to June 3 and made several advisory board appointments.

• Tabled affordable housing options item to June 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed Alison Brown to Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee (consensus)
• Appointed five members to Advisory Board on Aging (consensus)
• Appointed five members to Affordable Housing Advisory Board (consensus)
• Appointed Judson Williamson and Patrick Burns to ABC Board; Burns as chair (consensus)
• Appointed Dr. Bryan Stuart and Lucia Welborne to Animal Services Advisory Board (consensus)
• Appointed Dr. Sunita Driehuys and Dr. Bryan Stuart as chairs to Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool (consensus)
• Appointed Hannah Fatool to Arts Commission (consensus)

Parks & Recreation Council

The Parks and Recreation Council is meeting virtually to discuss new business, including pickleball and tennis court needs with guest speakers, and a review of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030. They will also hear reports on a recent meeting with the Board of County Commissioners and a recreation quarterly report. The agenda includes routine items like meeting notes review and project updates.

• Discussion of pickleball and tennis court needs with guest speakers
• Review of Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030
• Report from April 22 meeting with Board of County Commissioners (BOCC)
• Recreation Quarterly Report
• Report on vacancies and potential appointments

The Parks and Recreation Council heard from pickleball advocates about the lack of courts in the county and agreed to pursue a plan to permanently line Fairview Park tennis courts for both tennis and pickleball during an upcoming resurfacing project. Staff will provide cost details and a letter seeking authorization from the Board of Commissioners at the June meeting. The council also tabled any appointment suggestions until the BOCC reconvenes after summer break and discussed reviewing the 2014 Master Plan in August or September.

• Accepted March 3 and April 7 meeting summaries
• Agreed to wait on BOCC appointment suggestions until after summer break
• Agreed to pursue authorization to expend existing funds for Fairview Park court resurfacing with pickleball lines
• Staff to provide cost of adding pickleball lining and letter for June meeting
• Pickleball community to seek letter of support from Orange Tennis Club
• Tabled detailed Master Plan 2030 review until August or September
• Noted Blackwood Farm Park pre-bid conference held; construction expected to start in July

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is holding a virtual training session on various aspects of land use planning, led by Planning Director Craig Benedict. Attendance is not mandatory and a quorum is not required. The agenda contains only this training item plus call to order and adjournment, with no decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Training session on land use planning led by Planning Director Craig Benedict
• Virtual meeting via Zoom due to public health concerns

The Orange County Planning Board held a virtual training session on May 5, 2021, led by Planning Director Craig Benedict, covering various aspects of land use planning. No substantive decisions were made; the session was informational only.

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is meeting virtually to review and take action on a concept plan for the Pyewacket major subdivision, a 2-lot subdivision on 70.79 acres in Bingham Township that straddles the Orange-Chatham County line. The board will also consider informational items, approve minutes from the April 7 meeting, and hear public comments. The meeting is largely procedural, with the subdivision review being the main substantive item.

• Pyewacket major subdivision concept plan: 2 lots on 70.79 acres (PIN 9757-51-3504), south of Jones Ferry Road and Ferguson Road, with 93 habitable lots in Chatham County
• Approval of April 7, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Planning calendar for May and June 2021
• Virtual meeting with public comment via pre-registration by 3:00 p.m.

The Orange County Planning Board unanimously approved a concept plan for the Pyewacket major subdivision, a 2-lot subdivision on 70.79 acres in Bingham Township, with 93 habitable lots in Chatham County. The approval includes four conditions: investigating headlight impacts on a nearby house, conducting a traffic study, providing geological and well information, and implementing water conservation measures. The vote was 10-0, and the decision allows the applicant to proceed to the preliminary plat stage.

• Approved Pyewacket subdivision concept plan with 4 conditions (10-0)
• Condition: Investigate headlight impacts on house across from entrance on Jones Ferry Road
• Condition: Conduct traffic study
• Condition: Provide geological and well information for the area
• Condition: Implement water conservation measures
• Approved April 7, 2021 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections is meeting to approve minutes, hear the director's report on voter registration and budget, and discuss any litigation or election schedule changes. The board will also schedule its next meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.

• Approval of March 2, 2021 board minutes
• Voter registration statistical report
• Year-to-date budget report
• Litigation update and election schedule changes
• Schedule next board meeting

The Orange County Board of Elections unanimously approved minutes from March 2, 2021, and discussed spending remaining grant funds. The Board agreed to use Center for Tech and Civic Life (CTCL) grant funds to purchase a Ballot on Demand system for early voting sites, and to use HAVA grant funds for security cages at voting locations. No formal votes were taken on these spending decisions, which were discussed and agreed upon. The Board also entered closed session to discuss personnel.

• Approved March 2, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to use CTCL grant funds for Ballot on Demand system
• Agreed to use HAVA grant funds for security cages at voting locations
• Moved into closed session for personnel discussion (unanimous)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is meeting virtually to consider the Manager's recommended FY2021-22 operating budget, several public hearings on street renamings and capital project financing, and a lease for a new Arts Commission office. The agenda also includes multiple proclamations, including one honoring retiring UNC basketball coach Roy Williams, and a consent agenda with routine items like tax refunds and budget amendments.

• Public hearing on financing various Capital Investment Plan projects
• Public hearings on renaming Braxton Bragg Court to Hydrangea Court, Joseph Johnston Court to Water Oak Court, and Service Road SR1223 to Diversity Drive
• Presentation of Manager's Recommended Fiscal Year 2021-22 Annual Operating Budget
• Authorization to proceed with new Orange County Arts Commission office and lease with Hedgehog Holdings
• Proclamation recognizing Coach Roy Williams upon his retirement

The Board received the County Manager's recommended FY 2021-22 operating budget of $279.2 million, including a $244.1 million general fund, and scheduled public hearings and work sessions for May and June. The Board also conducted public hearings on financing $18.7 million in capital projects, UDO text amendments to comply with state law 160D, and renaming three roads, with votes scheduled for May 18. Several proclamations were approved unanimously, including recognizing Coach Roy Williams, Mental Health Awareness Month, Older Americans Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and the 60th anniversary of the Freedom Rides.

• Approved proclamation recognizing Coach Roy Williams (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Older Americans Month (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation commemorating 60th anniversary of Freedom Rides (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting LGC application for $18.7M financing (unanimous)
• Scheduled vote on UDO amendments for May 18 (unanimous)
• Scheduled votes on road renamings for May 18 (unanimous)

Board of Equalization & Review

The Orange County Board of Equalization and Review convened its 2021 session to accept property tax appeals. No hearings were scheduled for this date. Board members took oaths of office and discussed procedures for handling appeals, including access to materials and meeting schedules.

• Board convened to accept formal property tax appeals
• Oaths of office administered to board members
• Discussion on board access to appeal materials before meetings
• Meeting schedule to be emailed at least 24 hours in advance

The Board of Equalization and Review convened for 2021, with members taking oaths of office and formally opening the appeals process. No hearings were held, and no appeals were heard at this meeting. The board discussed logistics for future meetings, including access to appeals and scheduling.

• Convened 2021 Board of Equalization and Review to accept appeals (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting until May 25, 2021 (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Orange County Historic Preservation Commission is meeting virtually to discuss several items, including a minor works application for the Chatwood Local Landmark, a proposed field trip in May, and a subcommittee to explore a county historic marker program. No items are scheduled for decision at this meeting. The agenda also includes updates on various preservation projects and properties.

• Chatwood Local Landmark: minor works application
• Proposal for HPC field trip in May
• Subcommittee to explore county historic marker program
• Davis Farm cotton gin and log house progress
• Dickson House future maintenance funding challenges

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a minor works application for tree removal at the Chatwood landmark property, concurring with staff that it aligns with design guidelines. They also formed a subcommittee (Peck, Menius, Noe) to explore a county historic marker program, and discussed a May field trip to Chatwood. No formal decisions were made on other items.

• Approved Chatwood tree removal as minor works (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee to explore county historic marker program
• Approved Feb. 24, 2021 minutes as corrected (Menius shown absent)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a joint virtual meeting with the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools boards, plus Durham Technical Community College, to discuss and receive presentations on the FY2021-22 operating budget requests and the FY2021-26 capital investment plan. The meeting includes presentations from the county manager and each school district, followed by general questions, including a review of School Resource Officers. No votes are scheduled; the board is expected to provide direction to staff.

• CHCCS requests $61,764,203 in current expense funding, a $8,033,000 increase and $650.39 per pupil increase
• Orange County Schools requests $38,309,942 in current expense funding, a $2,893,572 increase and $357 per pupil increase
• DTCC requests $868,967 for operations, $75,000 capital outlay, and $250,000 for financial aid, plus new $50,000 for Back to Work grants
• FY2021-26 capital plan includes $27,504,864 for FY2021-22, with $13.3 million from 2016 bond for school construction
• Supplemental deferred maintenance program allocates $30 million over four years, with CHCCS receiving 59.99% and OCS 40.01% by ADM

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a virtual joint meeting with the Orange County Board of Education, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education, and Durham Technical Community College. The meeting was informational, with presentations on the County Manager's recommended capital budget and the operating budget requests from Durham Tech, CHCCS, and OCS. No formal decisions were made; the Board will consider the budget items at future meetings, with adoption of the first year of the capital plan scheduled for June 15, 2021.

• Recessed meeting for a five-minute break (unanimous)
• Reconvened meeting at 8:53 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:07 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual work session to review annual work plan summaries from multiple advisory boards and commissions, including Animal Services, Board of Health, and Historic Preservation. The board will provide feedback and direction on these plans. The agenda also includes discussions on appointments to several boards and commissions.

• Review of annual work plan summaries from 13 advisory boards and commissions
• Discussion of findings and recommendations by the Orange County Behavioral Health Task Force on the Crisis/Diversion Facility
• Appointment discussions for Arts Commission, Board of Health, Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Council, and Orange Water & Sewer Authority Board of Directors

The Board received findings and recommendations from the Behavioral Health Task Force on a proposed Crisis/Diversion Facility and expressed support for moving forward with detailed design and implementation planning, including funding for a project design consultant. The Board also discussed and made appointments to several boards and commissions, including the Board of Health, Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Council, and OWASA, with some appointments deferred or discussed. No formal votes were taken on the crisis facility; the meeting was a work session.

• Received Crisis/Diversion Facility findings; supported next steps for design and implementation planning
• Appointed Dr. Bruce Baldwin, Dr. Alison Stuebe, and Keith Bagby to Board of Health (consensus)
• Appointed Daniel Hatley to Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment (consensus)
• Appointed Paul Noe and Sarah Shore to Historic Preservation Commission (consensus)
• Appointed Christopher Colvin and Robert Smith to Parks and Recreation Council (consensus)
• Reappointed Jody Eimers to OWASA Board (majority, Dorosin dissenting)
• Deferred Arts Commission appointment; staff to seek alternative recommendation

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The Orange County BOCC Elections Advisory Group is meeting virtually to discuss the current framework and method for Board of Commissioners elections, including strengths and concerns. They will hear from experts on public law and demographics, and from the Community Relations Director. The group will also determine action steps for final recommendations, including public input and potential additional meetings.

• Discussion with Robert Joyce, UNC School of Government Professor of Public Law and Government
• Discussion with Rebecca Tippett, Carolina Demography, UNC Population Center
• Discussion with Orange County Community Relations Director Todd McGee
• Identify strengths and concerns with current framework/method for Board of Commissioners elections
• Determine action steps for BEAG final recommendations, including next steps for public input

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group heard presentations on election law, census data, and public outreach, then discussed strengths and concerns of the current blended election method. The group unanimously approved creating a Public Input Subcommittee of up to six members and appointed five volunteers to it. The subcommittee will report back at the May meeting. No final recommendation on election method changes was made.

• Approved March 25, 2021 meeting summary (unanimous)
• Established Public Input Subcommittee of up to 6 members (unanimous)
• Appointed Weiler, Bremer, Mondal, Sykes, and Catterall to subcommittee (unanimous)
• Kept next meeting on May 27, 2021

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually to hear reports on tourism recovery efforts, including a planned poll, a James Taylor video wall, and use of Recovery Act funds for a new building. Members also received updates on UNC events, local business reopenings, and the ArtsCenter's planned relocation to Jones Ferry Road.

• Recovery Act funds approved for construction at 308 W. Franklin
• ArtsCenter relocation to Jones Ferry Road, $6 million budget, groundbreaking early 2022
• UNC commencement May 14-16 at Kenan Stadium, ~5,000 per ceremony
• Orange County received $29 million in American Recovery Funds
• New businesses: Perennial Coffee, Spindle Bar, Franklin Motors Beer Garden, Tesoro

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board is meeting virtually to approve March minutes and hear reports on a six-month tourism plan, the James Taylor exhibit, group sales marketing, and upcoming festivals in Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and Carrboro. The agenda is largely informational with no votes on contracts or ordinances.

• Six-month tourism plan presented by Lee Davis, CEO, Clean Inc.
• Update on James Taylor exhibit by Director Laurie Paolicelli
• Group Sales Marketing Plan by Sales Director Marlene Hampton
• The ArtsCenter plans in Carrboro by Dan Mayer
• UNC Commencement and Fall 2021 update by Tanya Moore

Orange Unified Transportation Board

The Orange Unified Transportation Board will review and comment on several transportation items, including a proclamation for May Bike Month, the DCHC MPO Comprehensive Transportation Plan Amendment #3, the US 15/501 Study Phase 2, and small non-STIP transportation projects. The board will also receive updates from MPO/RPO and NCDOT. The meeting is virtual due to public health concerns.

• Proclamation recognizing May as Bike Month, recommending BOCC consider it
• DCHC MPO CTP Amendment #3: comments on highway, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian projects
• US 15/501 Study Phase 2: staff recommends OUTBoard provide comments
• Small Non-STIP Transportation Projects: staff recommends OUTBoard provide comments
• NCDOT Luncheon Info Item

The Orange County OUTBoard held a virtual regular meeting on April 21, 2021, and unanimously approved a proclamation designating May as Bike Month. The board also discussed the DCHC MPO CTP Amendment #3, the US 15/501 study, and small non-STIP transportation projects, but took no formal action on these items. The meeting was adjourned by consensus.

• Approved January 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May Bike Month proclamation (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual business meeting on April 20, 2021, with public comment by email or pre-registered phone/computer. The board will consider adopting proclamations for Earth Day 2021 and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, receive an update on the 2027 World University Games bid, and hold a public hearing on the FY 2021-2022 HOME Investment Partnerships Program Annual Action Plan. Other agenda items include a Buckhorn Area Plan Study, 2021 revaluation results, and a consent agenda with a contract for an AVAYA Voice over IP system.

• Public Hearing on FY 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan for HOME Investment Partnerships Program
• Earth Day 2021 Proclamation declaring April 'Skip the Stuff Month' and July 'Reduce Single Use Plastics Month'
• Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclamation for April 2021
• Three-Year Contract with Meridian IT, Inc. for AVAYA Voice over IP System
• 2021 Orange County Revaluation Results report

The Board unanimously approved proclamations recognizing Earth Day 2021 (declaring April as 'Skip the Stuff Month' and July as 'Reduce Single Use Plastics Month') and April 2021 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The Board also received a report on the Buckhorn Area Plan Study, discussing next steps for public outreach and coordination with Mebane, but took no formal action on the plan. A public hearing was held on the FY 2021-2022 HOME Investment Partnerships Program Annual Action Plan, with funding recommendations for Habitat for Humanity, Pee Wee Homes, and EmPOWERment. The Board approved the consent agenda, including a $267,746.92 contract with Meridian IT for phone system upgrades and a rezoning request for a 2.72-acre parcel owned by Gary Carleen Richardson.

• Approved Earth Day 2021 proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved Sexual Assault Awareness Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on FY 2021-2022 HOME Annual Action Plan (unanimous to open and close)
• Approved consent agenda including Meridian IT contract for $267,746.92 (unanimous)
• Approved FLUM and Zoning Atlas amendment for Richardson property (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 16, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2020-21 Budget Amendment #11 (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is discussing and likely adopting its 2021 legislative priorities, a list of positions on state legislation. The agenda includes support for legalizing marijuana, raising the minimum wage to $15, expanding broadband, and fully funding the Leandro education plan, as well as opposition to certain bills like private school vouchers and limits on local law enforcement funding.

• Support legalizing marijuana possession and retail sales to adults
• Support raising minimum wage to at least $15 per hour
• Support full funding of Leandro Remedial Action Plan for education
• Oppose Senate Bill 100 limiting local law enforcement funding control
• Support legislation to abolish the state death penalty

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a virtual legislative breakfast with state legislators to discuss the county's 2021 priority legislative issues. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, focusing on priorities like mental health, broadband, and racial equity in criminal justice. The board unanimously voted to adjourn.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting to discuss committee updates, revised bylaws, and a presentation on Chapel Hill's Climate Action and Response Plan. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Update from Policy Committee
• Update from Big Hairy Ideas (Climate Action Reporting) Committee
• Discussion of revised bylaws
• Presentation on Chapel Hill Climate Action and Response Plan
• Discussion on changing meeting time

Intergovernmental Parks Work Group (IPWG)

The Intergovernmental Parks Work Group is meeting to discuss how each jurisdiction managed recreation programs and parks during the pandemic, including lessons learned and challenges. They will also discuss future meeting topics and format. The agenda includes a review of past meeting notes.

• Discussion of pandemic impacts on recreation programs and park management
• Review of October 9, 2019 meeting notes
• Future meeting topics and format discussion
• Next meeting scheduled for October 13, 2021

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual budget work session to discuss the Manager's Recommended FY 2021-26 Capital Investment Plan (CIP). The discussion will focus on County and Proprietary projects, including debt service and capacity. School projects and the Durham Tech new academic building will be discussed at the April 27 work session. No final decisions will be made; the board will provide direction to staff.

• Five-year CIP totals $185.7 million, with $51.9 million in the first five years and $143.2 million over ten years
• County projects include $8.68M for Orange County Southern Branch Library, $6M for Emergency Services Substations, and $2.5M for Lands Legacy Program
• Proprietary projects include $3.18M for Solid Waste vehicle/equipment replacement and $1.31M for Sportsplex Ice Rink
• Water & Sewer projects include $1.235M for Buckhorn-Mebane EDD Phase 3 Sewer
• Debt financing is the largest funding source at $41.79M for county projects over five years

The Board of County Commissioners held a virtual work session to review the Manager's Recommended FY 2021-26 Capital Investment Plan (CIP), focusing on county and proprietary projects. No formal decisions were made; the session was for discussion and direction to staff. Commissioners raised questions about project priorities, including ADA improvements, dam remediation, and the Buckhorn-Mebane sewer project, and requested additional information for future meetings.

• No formal votes taken during the work session
• Discussed FY 2021-26 CIP, including county, school, and proprietary projects
• Commissioners requested staff provide more details on vehicle replacement schedules and building maintenance schedules
• Staff to bring options for Dickson House lease or sale to the board
• Staff to provide clearer maps and history for Buckhorn-Mebane EDD sewer project
• Staff to report on Sportsplex financial losses and land acquisition totals for Mountains-to-Sea trail

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will consider approving minutes, discuss current activities, hear a presentation on the county's solid waste and compost system, and vote on a draft resolution supporting the Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan. The meeting also includes updates on Earth Day 2021 and selection of a representative for the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group.

• Vote on DRAFT Resolution to Support Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan
• Presentation by Kyra Levau on Orange County Solid Waste and compost collection system
• Discussion of CFE activities including Climate Action Plan and Forest Management Policy
• Selection of representative for Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
• Approval of March 8, 2021 meeting minutes

The Commission for the Environment approved a motion to support the Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan, with no opposition. The commission also approved the draft minutes from March 8, 2021, and heard a presentation on Orange County's solid waste and recycling programs. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to support Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from March 8, 2021 (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council is meeting virtually to discuss new business, including Blackwood Farm Park Phase 2 construction plans, and old business, such as a Mountains to Sea Trail update. The council will also hear reports from the chair on vacancies and potential appointments, and from the director on project updates and April meeting topics.

• Blackwood Farm Park, Phase 2 Construction Plans
• Mountains to Sea Trail Update
• Vacancies and Potential Appointments
• Intergovernmental Parks Work Group (April 14)
• Friends of Orange County Parks and Recreation (FOPR) report

The Parks and Recreation Council voted to appoint Greg Hughes to the At-Large position on the council. Staff provided updates on the Blackwood Farm Park project, which is going out for bid soon, and the Mountains to Sea Trail, including new easements and grant funding. The council also discussed budget constraints leading to reduced park maintenance and limited summer camp capacity.

• Appointed Greg Hughes to the At-Large position (motion by Gina Reyman, seconded by Andrew Landstrom, passed).
• Heard that Blackwood Farm Park project will go out for bid in the next week, with construction expected to begin in July.
• Noted that the Mountains to Sea Trail is progressing with new land purchases and grant funding for the Seven Mile Creek Natural Area.
• Reported that summer camp will operate at about 22% of normal capacity with a lottery system.
• Discussed that park maintenance will be reduced due to budget issues, with plans to close Blackwood Farm Park during construction.

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board will consider and make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners on Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendments related to state legislation known as 160D. The amendments also require changes to Appendix F of the Comprehensive Plan and the Planning Board Rules of Procedure. The item is scheduled for a BOCC public hearing on May 4, 2021. The meeting is virtual, with public comment by pre-registration.

• UDO text amendments related to state legislation 160D, including changes to Appendix F and Planning Board Rules of Procedure
• Public hearing scheduled for BOCC on May 4, 2021
• Planning calendar for April and May 2021
• Board member introductions due to new members
• Approval of March 3, 2021 meeting minutes

The Orange County Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendments related to state legislation '160D', along with the Statement of Consistency and amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure, forwarding them to the Board of County Commissioners for review and consideration. A motion to require 15 days instead of 10 days for mailed notices failed 8-2. The board also discussed public notice methods, including signage legibility, and heard about a joint study with the City of Mebane on the Buckhorn Area Plan.

• Approved the March 3, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes and ORC meeting notes unanimously.
• Recommended approval of the Statement of Consistency, UDO Amendments, and Planning Board Rules of Procedure amendments to the Board of County Commissioners (unanimous).
• Denied a motion to require 15 days instead of 10 days for mailed notices (failed 8-2).
• No additions to the agenda were made.
• No chair comments were made.

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual business meeting on April 6, 2021. Key items include a public hearing on a Future Land Use Map and Zoning Atlas amendment, discussion of an interlocal agreement for the jointly owned Greene Tract, and follow-up on the county's proposed 2021 legislative agenda. The board will also receive reports on revaluation results and the manager's recommended FY 2021-26 Capital Investment Plan, along with several proclamations and routine consent agenda items.

• Public hearing on Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and Zoning Atlas Amendment – Richardson (MA20-0006)
• Interlocal Agreement regarding current and future use of the jointly owned Greene Tract
• Follow-up on Orange County's Proposed 2021 Legislative Agenda
• 2021 Orange County Revaluation Results report
• Proclamations recognizing Judge Beverly A. Scarlett, Thom Freeman-Stuart, and Fair Housing Month

The Board approved the interlocal agreement governing the jointly owned Greene Tract, including a change approved by Carrboro. The agreement sets an 18-month process to determine the tract's future uses, which are intended to include mixed-use and affordable housing, a school site, and a preserve. The vote was 6-1, with Commissioner Dorosin dissenting. The Board also approved the 2021 legislative agenda with a new seventh priority opposing laws that limit the civil rights of transgender persons.

• Approved the Greene Tract interlocal agreement with Chapel Hill and Carrboro, including Carrboro's amendment, by a 6-1 vote.
• Approved the 2021 legislative agenda, adding a priority to protect the civil rights of transgender persons.
• Approved a proclamation recognizing Judge Beverly A. Scarlett upon her retirement.
• Approved a proclamation recognizing retiring Assistant Deputy Clerk Thom Freeman-Stuart.
• Approved a proclamation designating April 2021 as Fair Housing Month.
• Approved a motion to add four members to the Affordable Housing Collaborative and move forward with the ROC USA model; Commissioner McKee abstained.
• Tabled the 2021 Orange County Revaluation Results report to a future meeting.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes, tax releases, a property exchange, budget amendments, and a continuity of services plan.

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The Orange County BOCC Elections Advisory Group is meeting virtually to discuss facilitator responsibilities, ground rules, decision-making, and the process to elect co-chairs. They will also consider electing co-chairs (one from each district) and review various information requests, including population data, mapping, and election methods. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no final decisions listed.

• Discussion on responsibilities of facilitator and co-chairs
• Potential election of co-chairs (one from District 1, one from District 2)
• Approval of February 25, 2021 meeting summary
• Information requests: population data 1980-2020, precinct/electoral district/census block mapping, OCS & CHCCS schools info, development activity, election methods for NC counties
• Planning topics for April 22, 2021 meeting

The Orange County BOCC Elections Advisory Group approved a decision-making process requiring at least 60 percent of members present, including at least two members from each district, to approve major items; routine items like minutes need only a simple majority. The group also elected Lisa Hazirjian (District 1) and Patrick Mulkey (District 2) as co-chairs, and approved the February 25 meeting summary. A separate motion to count abstentions as supporting votes passed 12-1.

• Approved the 'Responsibilities of the Facilitator and Co-Chairs' document as written.
• Approved the 'Discussion Guidelines for BOCC EAG Meetings' document as written.
• Approved a motion setting a 60% supermajority (including at least two members from each district) for major decisions; simple majority for routine items.
• Elected Lisa Hazirjian as District 1 Co-Chair and Patrick Mulkey as District 2 Co-Chair unanimously.
• Approved the February 25, 2021 meeting summary unanimously (one abstention).
• Approved a motion to count all abstentions as votes in support, 12-1.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:17 pm unanimously.

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council unanimously agreed that the Climate Action Reporting Database (CARD) is complete and no longer needs a standing committee to maintain it. They also unanimously approved the creation of a new 'Big Hairy Ideas Committee' (BHIC) to coordinate large interjurisdictional climate projects. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted mostly of committee updates and reports.

• Voted unanimously to declare CARD complete and dissolve its standing committee
• Voted unanimously to create the Big Hairy Ideas Committee (BHIC)

Agricultural Preservation Board

The Orange County Agricultural Preservation Board approved the enrollment of 864.04 acres across eight farms into the Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) program, including Sunshine Lavender Farm, Union Grove Farm, and Clearwind Farm. The board also heard a presentation on the Present-Use Value (PUV) property tax program, agreed to keep the existing VAD sign design, and discussed the future of dairying in the county.

• Approved the November 18, 2020 meeting minutes.
• Approved VAD enrollment for eight farms totaling 864.04 acres, including Annie Baggett, Greg Bohlen, Martin and Rebekah Bohlen, Matt and Suzanne Case, Zachary Dodson, Josh Williams, and Fran and Aaron Kelly.
• Denied VAD enrollment for Holcomb-Coon Rock Farm because it lies outside the VAD district boundary; staff will review redrawing boundaries with the county attorney.
• Agreed to maintain the existing VAD sign design when ordering new signs.

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board met virtually to hear reports on tourism recovery, the state of Raleigh-Durham Airport, and updates from local towns and organizations. The meeting was primarily informational, with no formal votes or decisions taken beyond approving the previous minutes.

• Approved February 17, 2021 minutes
• Presentation on state of Raleigh-Durham Airport by CEO Michael Landguth
• Carrboro approved use permit for The ArtsCenter on Jones Ferry Road
• Chapel Hill's East Rosemary Parking Deck slated for demolition in June
• Orange County awarded 171 small business/farm grants totaling $829,000

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board is meeting virtually to hear updates on travel at RDU Airport and a tourism recovery plan, along with reports from local partners. The agenda includes presentations on downtown Chapel Hill, UNC commencement, high school athletic schedules, and Hillsborough, plus a discussion on LGBT advocacy.

• State of travel at RDU by Michael J. Landguth, President & CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority
• Tourism Recovery Plan presented by Laurie Paolicelli, Director
• LGBT local government advocacy discussion with Mayor Lydia Lavelle of Carrboro
• Downtown Chapel Hill update by Matt Gladdek, Downtown Partnership
• UNC Commencement update by Tanya Moore

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting on March 16, 2021, to consider several items, including a resolution to rename the new Environmental Agricultural Center (EAC) as the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center. The board will also hear a public hearing on the 2019 Consolidated Annual Performance Report for the HOME program, discuss employee health insurance benefits and the 2021 legislative agenda, and receive a report on the Mobility On Demand pilot program. Public comments are limited to one hour with a three-minute limit per speaker, and pre-registration is required.

• Resolution to rename the Environmental Agricultural Center to the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center
• Public hearing on the 2019 Consolidated Annual Performance Report (CAPER) for the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program
• Recommendations for Employee Health Insurance and Other Benefits
• Orange County's Proposed 2021 Legislative Agenda
• Mobility On Demand (M.O.D.) Pilot Program Implementation report

The Board approved a list of six priority items for the 2021 legislative agenda, including broadband, a $15 minimum wage, and mental health. The Board also unanimously approved renaming the Environmental Agricultural Center after Bonnie B. Davis and approved a proclamation for World Water Day. Employee health insurance rates were approved with no increase for the coming year.

• Approved 2021 legislative priorities: broadband, $15 minimum wage, Leandro funding, racial equity, mental health, and OWASA.
• Approved renaming the Environmental Agricultural Center to the Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center.
• Approved a proclamation naming March 22, 2021 as World Water Day in Orange County.
• Approved employee health and dental insurance rates with no increase for FY2021-22.
• Approved appointments to the Board of Equalization and Review and the Board of Adjustment.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes and budget amendments.
• Received an update on the Mobility on Demand (M.O.D.) pilot program.
• Held a public hearing on the 2019 HOME program report.

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual work session to discuss the Buckhorn Area Plan with the Mebane City Council, a study identifying parcels suitable for development near Mebane. They will also review annual work plan summaries from several advisory boards and commissions, and discuss appointments to advisory boards and a date correction for the Board of Equalization and Review.

• Joint discussion with Mebane City Council on Buckhorn Area Plan (study)
• Review of annual work plan summaries from Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau, Economic Development Advisory Commission, Planning Board, and Orange Unified Transportation Board
• Advisory Boards Appointments Discussion
• Board of Equalization and Review – discussion on date correction and appointment of new members and chair

The Board held a joint work session with the Mebane City Council to discuss the Buckhorn Area Plan, a growth study for areas near Mebane. No formal action was taken on the plan. The Board also reviewed annual work plan summaries from several advisory boards and made appointments to multiple boards and commissions.

• Corrected term expiration dates for Board of Equalization and Review members to March 31, 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed Mark Solomon to Animal Services Hearing Panel (consensus)
• Re-appointed Debra Cunningham, Alan Polak, and Meggie Romick to Animal Services Hearing Panel (consensus)
• Appointed Lindsay Metivier and Crystal Wu to Arts Commission (consensus)
• Agreed to appoint Hunter Beattie as Chair, Barbara Levine and Andrew Landstrom as regular members, and Reginald Morgan and Karen Morrisette as alternates to Board of Equalization and Review (consensus)
• Appointed Kristie Mather, Veronica Beattie, and Ulrich Hartmond to Commission for the Environment (consensus)
• Appointed Leon Meyers to Regular At-Large position on Board of Adjustment (consensus)
• Appointed Nathan Robinson and Elizabeth Bronson to alternate positions on Board of Adjustment (consensus)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will consider approving February minutes, discuss current activities, and plan a presentation of the Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan to the Board of County Commissioners. The meeting also includes committee breakouts to set goals and updates on the SELC/Clean Air Carolina petition and the Buckhorn Area Development Plan.

• Approval of draft minutes from February 8, 2021
• Discussion of Eno-New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan and potential resolution of support
• Update on SELC/Clean Air Carolina petition
• Update on Buckhorn Area Development Plan
• Committee breakouts to discuss goals and projects for 2021

The Orange County Commission for the Environment approved the February 8, 2021 meeting minutes and made a procedural change to the agenda. Members discussed the Eno New Hope Landscape Conservation Plan and a petition supporting the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, but no formal action was taken on either item. The meeting adjourned at 9:02 pm.

• Approved the draft minutes from February 8, 2021, by unanimous vote.
• Approved a motion to approve previous meeting minutes before agenda changes, with no opposition.
• Approved a change to the agenda to move an item under Updates to occur after item V, with no opposition.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:02 pm by unanimous vote.

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council will meet virtually to discuss filling council vacancies, receive an update on parks and recreation operations during COVID, and review the Capital Investment Plan 2020-2025. The agenda also includes project updates and topics for the April meeting. The meeting is open to the public via email request.

• Recommendations for new/replacement council members
• Parks and Recreation operations overview during COVID
• Capital Investment Plan 2020-2025 review
• Project updates from the Director
• April meeting topics discussion

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council approved the appointment of Christopher Colvin to the Carrboro Town Limit vacancy. The council also reviewed operations updates, including the decision to keep Soccer.com Center closed for the spring season due to low projected use, and discussed potential budget-driven reductions in seasonal park staff. No other formal votes were taken.

• Appointed Christopher Colvin to Carrboro Town Limit vacancy (approved)
• Kept Soccer.com Center closed for spring 2021, reopening in fall 2021
• Discussed potential reduction of seasonal park staff due to FY 2021-22 budget shortfall

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board is reviewing proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to align it with new state statutes (NCGS Chapter 160D). The amendments update administrative provisions, zoning district terminology, and flood damage prevention authority. The board is discussing these changes, which were legally reviewed by the County Attorney's office on February 26, 2021.

• Amendments to UDO Article 1: Administration, including authority and flood damage prevention sections
• Update zoning district terms: 'general use' to 'conventional', 'conditional zoning' to 'conditional district'
• Add provisions for split jurisdiction parcels per NCGS 160D-203
• Add permit choice and vested rights language per NCGS 160D-108
• Clarify Official Zoning Atlas maintenance in paper or digital format

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board will hold a virtual regular meeting on March 3, 2021. The main item is a recommendation on an applicant-initiated zoning atlas amendment to rezone 2.72 acres on NC Highway 86 from Rural Residential (R-1) to General Commercial (GC-4), scheduled for a BOCC public hearing on April 6, 2021. The board will also approve minutes from the January 6, 2021 meeting and receive informational items, including the planning calendar and a thank-you to outgoing member Patricia Roberts.

• Rezone 2.72 acres (PIN 9873-54-6387) on east side of NC Highway 86, across from Fletcher Road, from R-1 to GC-4
• Public hearing scheduled for BOCC on April 6, 2021
• Approval of January 6, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Acknowledgment of Patricia Roberts' service as she rotates off the board effective 3/31/21
• Virtual meeting with public comment via written submittal or speaking (pre-registration required by 3:00 p.m.)

The Orange County Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend denial of a request to rezone 2.72 acres on NC Hwy 86 from Rural Residential (R-1) to General Commercial (GC-4). The board agreed with staff that the rezoning is inconsistent with the County Comprehensive Plan and other planning documents because the property cannot be served by public water and sewer. The board also approved the January 6, 2021 meeting minutes by a 10-1 vote, with one member voting no over a procedural concern. The item will go to the Board of County Commissioners for a public hearing and final decision.

• Approved the January 6, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes by a 10-1 roll call vote.
• Recommended denial of the zoning atlas amendment to rezone 2.72 acres from R-1 to GC-4, citing inconsistency with the Comprehensive Plan and lack of public water/sewer access.
• Consensus to hold a future discussion on internal procedures for making requests of developers.

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board's Ordinance Review Committee is reviewing proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to conform with new state legislation, Chapter 160D. The amendments also require changes to the Comprehensive Plan and board rules of procedure. The committee will provide feedback on the draft, which has not yet received final legal approval.

• Review of UDO text amendments for NCGS Chapter 160D compliance
• Proposal to consolidate Special Use Permits into one class heard by Board of Adjustment
• Elimination of Conditional Use Districts, replaced by four new Conditional Districts
• Amendments to Appendix F of the Comprehensive Plan and Planning Board Rules of Procedure
• Deadline to adopt conforming regulations is July 1, 2021

The Ordinance Review Committee reviewed Unified Development Ordinance text amendments required by state legislation (160D), with a recommendation scheduled for the April 7 Planning Board meeting. The board agreed to skip a formal presentation at that meeting since members had already heard the details. No formal decisions were made; the discussion included potential changes to legal ad requirements and questions about interlocal agreements.

• Agreed to skip 160D amendment presentation at April Planning Board meeting (consensus)

Board of Elections

The Orange County Board of Elections is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear the Director's report, which includes a year-to-date budget update, voter registration statistics, a possible change to the election schedule, and a voting location report. The board will also schedule its next meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Approval of board minutes from November 12, 13, and 20, 2020
• Year-to-date budget report
• Voter registration statistical report
• Possible change to election schedule report
• Voting location report

The Orange County Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from November 12, 13, and 20, 2020. The director reported sufficient funds for operations and discussed using remaining grant funds for a tabulator and hazard pay, as well as the 2021-22 budget request. No formal decisions were made on these items; the board also heard reports on voter registration and a possible state-mandated election schedule change.

• Approved November 12, 13, and 20, 2020 minutes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution supporting the CROWN Act and amending the county's Civil Rights Ordinance to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyles associated with race, national origin, or religion. The board will also hear a presentation on bail reform initiatives and discuss the 203 South Greensboro Project for a new library and skills center. The meeting is virtual due to public health concerns, with public comment by pre-registration.

• Resolution supporting the CROWN Act and amending Chapter 12 of the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance
• Presentation on Orange County Bail Reform Initiatives
• 203 South Greensboro Project – Southern Branch Library and Skills Development Center
• Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget Amendment #8
• Robert & Pearl Seymour Center Corporate Water Easement with Orange Water and Sewer Authority (2551 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill)

The Board unanimously approved a resolution supporting the CROWN Act and amended the county's Civil Rights Ordinance to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle associated with race, national origin, or religion. The Board also unanimously approved a motion to reconcile the budget for the 203 South Greensboro Project (Southern Branch Library and Skills Development Center) by transferring furniture funds, reducing construction contingency, lowering window glazing standards, and removing the Justice Center generator and delaying conservation easements, with the remaining deficit to be debt-financed. The Board approved several proclamations and resolutions, including recognizing March 3, 2021 as a Day of Reflection for COVID-19 and March 2021 as Women's History Month. The Board also received a presentation on bail reform initiatives and approved the consent agenda, which included budget amendments and property tax releases.

• Approved resolution supporting the CROWN Act and amended Chapter 12 of the Orange County Civil Rights Ordinance to prohibit hair-based discrimination.
• Approved resolution recognizing March 3, 2021 as a Day of Reflection for COVID-19.
• Approved proclamation recognizing March 2021 as Women's History Month.
• Approved motion to reconcile 203 Project budget by transferring FFE funds, reducing contingency, lowering window STC rating, removing Justice Center generator, and delaying conservation easements.
• Approved consent agenda including budget amendment #8, property tax releases, and policy updates.
• Approved corporate water easement with OWASA for the Seymour Center.
• Received presentation on bail reform initiatives; no formal action taken.
• Approved agenda change to move item 8-h to Special Presentations.

BOCC Elections Advisory Group

The BOCC Elections Advisory Group is holding an organizational meeting to review its charge, timeline, and the county's legal authority regarding Board of Commissioners elections. They will discuss potential facilitation, meeting schedules, and co-chair selection, as well as initial information requests. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Review of county's legal authority related to BOCC elections
• Potential election of co-chairs, one from District 1 and one from District 2
• Discussion on potential facilitator for the group
• Review of current framework for BOCC elections
• Discussion on initial information or presentation requests

The Orange County BOCC Elections Advisory Group held its first meeting and made several organizational decisions. It voted 11-3 to ask staff to pursue a facilitator for future meetings, and also voted 11-3 to temporarily adopt the County's Advisory Board Policy for its operations. The group established a standard meeting schedule (4th Thursday at 7 pm) and set a process for electing co-chairs.

• Voted 11-3 to pursue a facilitator for future meetings
• Voted 11-3 to adopt County Advisory Board Policy as temporary operating rules
• Unanimously set 4th Thursday at 7 pm as standard meeting time
• Unanimously approved process for co-chair candidates to email interest by March 11

Historic Preservation Commission

The Orange County Historic Preservation Commission is meeting virtually to discuss outside agency grant applications for the Orange County Museum and the Burwell School, and to hear a presentation on the John Paisley Hughes House. No formal decisions are on the agenda; the meeting consists of discussion and informational updates.

• Review of outside agency grant applications for Orange Co. Museum and Burwell School
• Presentation on John Paisley Hughes House (c.1825, 1860s, 1890s) in Cedar Grove
• Update on dendrochronology project with $5,000 Covington Foundation grant and county match
• Update on Blackwood Farm preservation funding
• Update on Cameron Ice House sign and repairs

The Orange County Historic Preservation Commission met virtually and approved minutes from December 9, 2020. The commission scored two outside agency grant applications, giving the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County (Orange County Museum) a score of 89 and the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough (Burwell School) a score of 95. No formal decisions were made on other agenda items; the rest of the meeting was discussion and updates.

• Approved the minutes from the December 9, 2020 meeting.
• Approved a grant application score of 89 for the Historical Foundation of Hillsborough and Orange County (Orange County Museum).
• Approved a grant application score of 95 for the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough (Burwell School).
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:11 pm.

Climate Council

The Council will review meeting minutes from January 21, 2020, and discuss strategies for filling vacancies and increasing diversity. Committee members will also provide progress reports on communications research and upcoming meeting schedules.

• Report on recruitment for existing vacancies and diversity efforts
• NAACP report from Cathy Cole
• Communications Committee intern research goals and progress update
• Update on the Policy Committee next meeting date and topic
• Update on the Climate Action Reporting Committee next meeting date and topic

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau board reviewed the severe impact of COVID-19 on local tourism, including a 70% decline in hotel revenue since March 2020. The executive director outlined a reduced 2021-22 budget with only $276,000 for marketing, and discussed recovery projections for 2022. The meeting also included a presentation on regional tourism recovery and updates from local officials.

• Hotel revenue down $32.3 million (70%) since March 2020; room night demand down 57.2%
• 2020 tourism economic impact estimated at $98 million, down from $218 million in 2019
• Projected 2021-22 revenue: $1.3 million, with $276,000 for marketing after fixed costs
• No visitor guides, trade shows, printed media, or event sponsorships planned for coming year
• UNC commencement planned as multiple ceremonies at Kenan Stadium, May 15-16, with two guests per graduate

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Orange County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors is meeting virtually to discuss tourism recovery in the Triangle, hear updates from local partners, and review the January 2021 minutes. The agenda includes presentations on hotel performance, an LGBT website, group sales, and updates from Chapel Hill, UNC, Carrboro, and Hillsborough.

• Tourism recovery in the Triangle: what our Triangle partners are saying (Dennis Edwards, CEO, Raleigh CVB)
• Hotel Pulse (Mark Sherburne, Carolina Inn)
• LGBT Website (Lee Davis, CEO, Clean Inc.)
• Group Sales Update (Marlene Hampton, Director)
• Chapel Hill (Matt Gladdek, Downtown Partnership)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting to consider several action items, including approving a disengagement plan from Cardinal Innovations Health Care to realign with Alliance Health, and renaming the Environmental Agricultural Center after Bonnie B. Davis. The board will also receive an annual update from OWASA and hear a report on the Buckhorn Area Plan. Public comment is limited to one hour with a three-minute limit per speaker, and pre-registration is required.

• Approval of Disengagement Plan from Cardinal Innovations Health Care and realignment with Alliance Health
• Renaming the Orange County Environmental Agricultural Center to the Orange County Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center
• Proclamation recognizing Robert A. Marotto, retiring director of Animal Services
• Designation of 401 Valley Forge Road, Hillsborough, NC as surplus property
• Contract approval for fiber backbone connecting West Campus to new North Campus

The Board unanimously approved the Disengagement Plan to leave Cardinal Innovations and realign with Alliance Health for mental health services, starting a 60-day public comment period. It also unanimously approved renaming the new Environmental Agricultural Center after Bonnie B. Davis. The Board received the Buckhorn Area Plan as an information item, with no formal action taken, and approved consent agenda items including a fiber contract and property sale designation.

• Approved Disengagement Plan from Cardinal Innovations to Alliance Health (unanimous)
• Approved renaming EAC to Bonnie B. Davis Environmental and Agricultural Center (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including fiber contract with NetPlanner, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved appointments to advisory boards including Leon Meyers to Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved surplus designation and sale contract for 401 Valley Forge Road (unanimous)
• Approved 20-year lease for High Rock Waste and Recycling Center (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution declaring Feb 23, 2021 as Spay Neuter Day (unanimous)
• Acknowledged withdrawal of Efland Station zoning application (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual work session to discuss four topics: appointments to advisory boards, possible regulation of firearm discharges in high-density residential areas, the policy on housing federal inmates in the county detention center, and whether to require written consent for vehicle searches. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Advisory board appointments for Arts Commission, Visitors Bureau, Board of Adjustment, Housing Authority, Parks & Recreation Council, and Planning Board
• Discussion on regulating discharge of firearms in areas with high residential unit density
• Discussion on current policy for housing federal inmates in Orange County Detention Center
• Discussion on written consent for conducting vehicle searches

The Board of County Commissioners held a virtual work session and agreed by consensus to a slate of appointments to several advisory boards, including the Arts Commission, Visitors Bureau, Housing Authority, Parks & Recreation Council, and Planning Board. The Board deferred two additional applications to the next cycle and did not reappoint Samantha Cabe to the Board of Adjustment, instead considering an alternate. No formal votes were taken; appointments will be confirmed on the consent agenda at the February 16 meeting.

• Deferred two additional advisory board applications to next cycle (consensus)
• Approved Arts Commission appointments: John Bemis, Anita Mills, Frederick Joiner (consensus)
• Approved Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau appointment: Manish Atma (consensus)
• Did not reappoint Samantha Cabe to Board of Adjustment; will consider alternate Leon Meyers (consensus)
• Approved Orange County Housing Authority appointments: Adejuwon Ojebuoboh, Dr. Michael Webb (consensus)
• Approved Parks & Recreation Council appointment: Mikki Fleming (consensus)
• Approved Planning Board appointments: Melissa Poole, Lamar Proctor, Carrie Fletcher, Charity Kirk, Whitney Watson (consensus)
• Directed staff to create 300-foot buffer maps with overlay of problem areas for firearm discharge discussion (consensus)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for 2021 and review its current activities. The commission will also discuss lessons learned from its review of the Efland Station rezoning request and hear a presentation on resolutions, including a proposed resolution on the health effects of climate change for potential consideration by the Board of County Commissioners.

• Election of 2021 Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of lessons learned from Efland Station environmental review process
• Presentation on resolution vs. ordinance and proposed climate change health resolution
• Review of CFE activities including Climate Action Plan and Rights-of-Way Subcommittee
• Approval of January 11, 2021 meeting minutes

The Commission for the Environment elected Kim Piracci as Chair and Kim Livingston as Vice-Chair for 2021, both unanimously. The commission removed several items from its 2021 activities list, including the Carbon Fee & Dividend / Fossil Fuel Divestment resolutions, and declined to move forward a proposed resolution on health effects of climate change. It also agreed it needs more time to review development projects in the future.

• Elected Kim Piracci as CFE Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Elected Kim Livingston as CFE Vice-Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from January 11, 2021 (unanimous)
• Removed Carbon Fee & Dividend / Fossil Fuel Divestment resolutions from 2021 activities list
• Removed Coordination with Planning Dept. and Duke Energy IRP Letter from 2021 activities list
• Chose not to move forward a resolution on health effects of climate change

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council is meeting virtually to review and score funding applications from three outside agencies: Bridge II Sports, Triangle Bikeworks, and Piedmont Wildlife Center. The agenda also includes a report from the chair on vacancies, project updates from the director, and council/committee reports. No old business is listed.

• Review and scoring of outside agency applications (Bridge II Sports, Triangle Bikeworks, Piedmont Wildlife Center)
• Report of the Chair on current vacancies and applications
• Project updates from the Director
• Council and committee reports, including Friends of Orange County Parks and Recreation (FOPR)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting on February 2, 2021. The agenda includes three proclamations: honoring retiring WCHL radio personality Ron Stutts, expressing appreciation to Nancy Grebenkemper for her work with PORCH Hillsborough, and proclaiming February as Black History Month. The board will also hold a public hearing on a zoning atlas amendment for a self-storage facility in the NC Highway 57 Speedway Rural Economic Development Area, and consider several appointments and routine consent agenda items.

• Proclamation recognizing Ron Stutts for 43 years on WCHL radio
• Proclamation honoring Nancy Grebenkemper for leading PORCH Hillsborough
• Black History Month proclamation for February 2021
• Public hearing on zoning atlas amendment for Rougemont Self Storage (REDA-CZ-1)
• Community Climate Action Grant project selection for FY20-21

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a Class B Special Use Permit (SUP20-0008) for a 16.2-acre outdoor cricket facility with two fields on Atkins Road, off Old Greensboro Highway. The approval includes 17 conditions, several modified during deliberation, such as limiting play to April–October, capping on-site cars at 50, and requiring portable toilets to be screened and removed after the season. The board made all required findings, including that the use would maintain contiguous property values and be in harmony with the area.

• Approved special use permit SUP20-0008 for recreational cricket facility (unanimous)
• Found applicant met burden on application completeness under UDO Sections 2.2 and 2.7 (unanimous)
• Found compliance with waste disposal, safety, and vehicle access under Section 5.3.2(B) (unanimous)
• Found site plan compliant with Sections 2.5 and 5.7.2 (unanimous)
• Found use maintains public health, safety, and general welfare under Section 5.3.2(A)(2)(a) (unanimous)
• Found use maintains contiguous property values under Section 5.3.2(A)(2)(b) (unanimous)
• Found use in harmony with area under Section 5.3.2(A)(2)(c) (unanimous)
• Approved modified conditions, including no Holly Creek Lane use and 50-car limit (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners is holding a two-day retreat to develop a Recovery and Resiliency Plan focused on disrupting racism and rebuilding equitably. The board will review the current impact of COVID-19 on the county, including health, economic, and housing data, and will discuss priorities, goals, and strategies for the coming year. The agenda includes presentations from county staff on the budget, racial equity initiatives, and community input, followed by facilitated discussions to set priorities for 2021 and beyond.

• Review of COVID-19 impact data, including 68 COVID-related deaths and unemployment rates peaking at 9.0% in May 2020.
• Discussion of fiscal status, including a projected $3.7 million expenditure overage for FY2020-21 and a projected $10 million debt service increase for FY2021-22.
• Review of economic interventions, including $742,554 awarded to 112 small businesses and food/ag operations in 2020.
• Discussion of housing interventions, including $2.5 million disbursed to 1,005 residents for emergency housing assistance in 2020.
• Planning for the FY2021-22 budget, including addressing a projected $10 million increase in debt service requirements.

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners is holding a two-day retreat to develop a Recovery and Resiliency Plan focused on disrupting racism and prioritizing recovery spending. They will review the current impact of COVID-19, including health and economic data, and discuss budget planning for FY2021-22, including addressing a projected $3.7 million expenditure shortfall and a $10 million debt service increase. The retreat is a working session with no formal votes or public hearings.

• Review of COVID-19 impact data, including 68 COVID-related deaths, with 32% among Black or African American residents
• Discussion of FY2021-22 budget planning, including a projected $10 million debt service increase (tax equivalent of 4.81 cents per $100 assessed value)
• Review of $742,554 in small business and agriculture grants awarded in 2020
• Discussion of $2.5 million disbursed in emergency housing assistance to 1,005 residents in 2020
• Review of racial equity action plan pillars, including a Racial Equity Index and Tool

The Orange County Board of Commissioners held a two-day virtual retreat to discuss priorities for 2021, focusing on the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and racism. No formal policy decisions were made; the retreat was for discussion and planning. Staff will incorporate the board's input into the upcoming budget and strategic planning.

• Recessed and reconvened retreat (unanimous)
• Adjourned retreat (unanimous)

Climate Council

The Orange County Climate Council is meeting to accept nominations for Chair and Vice-Chair, discuss vacancies and participation, and plan outreach. They will also receive updates from the Climate Action Reporting, Policy, and Communications committees. The meeting is open to the public, but there is no place for public comment on the agenda.

• Nominations for Council Chair / Vice-Chair for the next year
• Discussion of current vacancies and participation levels
• Update from Climate Action Reporting Committee
• Update from Policy Committee
• Update from Communications Committee

Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Board of Directors meets virtually to hear updates on the state and local hospitality industry, review priorities for the next six months, and receive reports on group sales, downtown Chapel Hill, UNC operations, and other local topics. The agenda is largely informational, with no votes or contracts listed.

• State of NC Restaurant and Lodging Industry presentation by Lynn Minges, CEO, NCRLA
• State of OC Hospitality Industry report by Director Laurie Paolicelli
• Review of focus for next six months led by Lee Davis, CEO, Clean Inc.
• LGBT local government advocacy update by Carrboro Mayor Lydia Lavelle
• Downtown Chapel Hill update by Matt Gladdeck, Downtown Partnership

Orange Unified Transportation Board

The Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) will consider approving its 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan, which summarizes past activities and outlines next year's priorities. The board will also receive updates on the Orange County Transit Plan and MPO/RPO and NCDOT activities. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major funding or rezoning decisions on the agenda.

• Approval of 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan
• Update on Orange County Transit Plan
• Update on MPO/RPO and NCDOT activities
• Approval of September 16, 2020 meeting minutes

The Orange County OUTBoard unanimously approved the 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan as amended, with a change to strengthen wording on an emerging issue. The board also unanimously approved the September 16, 2020 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included staff updates and discussion items.

• Approved 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan as amended (unanimous)
• Approved September 16, 2020 minutes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual business meeting to consider a zoning atlas amendment for the Efland Station (formerly Beaver Crossing) master plan development, an amendment to the non-discrimination ordinance, and several proclamations. The board will also review the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and approve a budget amendment. Public comments are limited to one hour, with pre-registration required.

• Zoning Atlas Amendment: Master Plan Development Conditional Zoning District (MPD-CZ) for Efland Station (formerly Beaver Crossing)
• Amendment to the Code of Ordinances – Non-Discrimination Ordinance
• Proclamation honoring Dr. Kizzmekia S. Corbett for COVID-19 vaccine work
• Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget Amendment #6
• Presentation of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for FYE 6/30/2020

The Board voted 5-2 to direct staff to develop conditions for the proposed Buc-ee's travel center rezoning, including a friendly amendment to lower signage to 24 feet and add solar options. The item will return on February 16. The Board also unanimously adopted a Non-Discrimination Ordinance and approved several proclamations and consent agenda items.

• Directed staff to develop conditions for Buc-ee's rezoning, with signage lowered to 24 ft and solar options added (5-2)
• Adopted Non-Discrimination Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation honoring Cordelia Heaney (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation honoring Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett (unanimous)
• Approved National Mentoring Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Accepted Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for FYE 6/30/2020
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases, budget amendment, and road addition request (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Council

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council is holding a virtual special meeting to review and approve its 2020 annual report and 2021 work plan, as well as its 2021 meeting calendar. The council will also hear reports from the chair on vacancies and from the director on project updates. The agenda includes no old business.

• Review of 2020 annual report and 2021 work plan for the Board of County Commissioners
• Approval of 2021 meeting calendar
• Report on current vacancies and applications for council seats
• Project updates from the director, including Blackwood Farm Park and Little River Regional Park
• Council and committee reports, including Friends of Orange County Parks and Recreation

The council unanimously approved moving Bob Smith from his At-Large position to the vacant Little River Township seat, creating a new At-Large vacancy. The council adopted the 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan and the 2021 meeting calendar, both unanimously. A motion to review applications for council vacancies at the February meeting failed for lack of a second.

• Moved Bob Smith to Little River Township vacancy (unanimous)
• Adopted 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Work Plan (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Motion to review applications at February meeting failed (no second)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is continuing a virtual special meeting to reconvene and close the public hearing on a zoning atlas amendment for the Efland Station (formerly Beaver Crossing) development. The board will accept written comments until January 14, 2021, and then adjourn. This is a procedural continuation of hearings from December 15, 2020, and January 5, 2021.

• Zoning Atlas Amendment: Master Plan Development Conditional Zoning District (MPD-CZ) for Efland Station (formerly Beaver Crossing)
• Public hearing closing; written comments accepted until 9:00 a.m. on January 14, 2021
• Written comments via email to [email protected] or delivery to Planning Department, 131 West Margaret Lane, Hillsborough

The Board of County Commissioners reconvened the continued public hearing for the proposed Buc-ee's travel center (Efland Station) rezoning, heard extensive public comment, and voted unanimously to close the hearing. Written comments will be accepted until 9:00 a.m. on January 14, 2021. No decision on the rezoning request was made at this meeting.

• Reconvened the continued public hearing for the Buc-ee's rezoning (unanimous)
• Closed the public hearing for the Buc-ee's rezoning (unanimous)
• Authorized written comments until 9:00 a.m. on January 14, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the special meeting (unanimous)

Commission for the Environment

The Orange County Commission for the Environment will review public environmental concerns about the Efland Station development project, as requested by the Board of County Commissioners, and will consider final edits to its 2021 Annual Report and Work Plan. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and discussing current activities.

• Review of Efland Station development project environmental concerns (Attachment 2, 2A)
• Final edits to 2021 Annual Report and Work Plan, due January 31st
• Approval of December 14, 2020 meeting minutes
• Discussion of CFE activities, including Climate Action Plan and Carbon Fee & Dividend resolution
• Updates on CFE vacancies and applicants

Planning Board

The Orange County Planning Board will review an applicant-initiated zoning atlas amendment to expand the existing REDA-CZ-1 conditional zoning district at 8927 Mile Branch Road, allowing expansion of a self-storage operation. The board will also elect a chair and vice-chair for 2021, discuss the annual report and work plan, and receive informational updates. The meeting is virtual due to public health concerns.

• Zoning atlas amendment REDA-CZ-1 (Rougemont Self Storage) to rezone 21.54 acres at 8927 Mile Branch Road, Little River Township, to expand self-storage; BOCC public hearing scheduled for February 2, 2021
• Election of chair and vice-chair for 2021
• Discussion of Planning Board annual report and work plan
• Informational item: Buckhorn Small Area Plan study update at February 3, 2021 meeting
• Approval of November 4, 2020 meeting minutes

The Orange County Planning Board unanimously recommended approval of a zoning atlas amendment to expand the REDA-CZ-1 conditional zoning district at 8927 Mile Branch Road, allowing expansion of the Rougemont Self Storage operation. The board also unanimously reappointed David Blankfard as Chair and Adam Beeman as Vice-Chair for 2021, approved the November 4, 2020 meeting minutes, and approved the 2021 Annual Report and Work Plan as amended. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of zoning atlas amendment for Rougemont Self Storage expansion (unanimous)
• Reappointed David Blankfard as Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Adam Beeman as Vice-Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved November 4, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Annual Report and Work Plan as amended (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Orange County Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual special meeting to reconvene a continued public hearing on a zoning atlas amendment for the Efland Station development (formerly Beaver Crossing). The hearing was originally opened on December 15, 2020, and was recessed due to the large number of speakers. The board will hear from the next 45 registered speakers during this meeting, with an additional continuation date set for January 12, 2021.

• Reconvene continued public hearing for Zoning Atlas Amendment: Master Plan Development Conditional Zoning District (MPD-CZ) for Efland Station (formerly Beaver Crossing)
• Introduction of Laura Jensen, new Clerk to the Board
• Public comment via written submittals or virtual speaking, with pre-registration required
• Meeting recessed to reconvene on January 12, 2021

The Board of County Commissioners held a virtual special meeting on January 5, 2021, to continue the public hearing on a zoning request by Buc-ee's Limited to rezone about 104 acres in Efland to a Master Plan Development Conditional Zoning district. After hearing extensive public comment, the Board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to January 12, 2021. At the January 12 meeting, the Board heard more public comment and then voted unanimously to close the public hearing, with written comments accepted until January 14, 2021. No final decision on the rezoning was made at these meetings.

• Continued public hearing on Buc-ee's rezoning to Jan. 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Reconvened continued public hearing on Jan. 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on Buc-ee's rezoning, accepting written comments until Jan. 14, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the virtual special meeting (unanimous)