Polk County public meetings in 2021

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to consider several items, including a budget amendment for an employee retention initiative, an update on the Womack Building restoration project with a budget amendment, and approval of the consent agenda. The consent agenda includes meeting minutes, 2022 meeting rules and schedule, and a reappointment to a transportation committee. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major public hearings or rezonings.

• Employee Retention Initiative budget amendment
• Womack Building Restoration Project update and budget amendment
• Approval of December 6, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• 2022 meeting rules, procedures, decorum, and January-June 2022 meeting schedule
• Commissioner Moore reappointment to Foothills Transportation Advisory Committee Board

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $151,000 budget amendment to increase the county salary scale by 2.5%, bringing the total increase to 7.5% as part of an employee retention initiative. They also approved a $65,000 budget amendment for additional repairs to the Womack Building/elevator not covered by insurance. The board approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes and the 2022 meeting schedule, and recognized employees for years of service. Commissioner Yoder was absent.

• Approved $151,000 budget amendment for 2.5% salary scale increase (unanimous, Yoder absent)
• Approved $65,000 budget amendment for Womack Building/elevator repairs (unanimous, Yoder absent)
• Approved consent agenda including Dec. 6 minutes, 2022 schedule, and Commissioner Moore's reappointment to Foothills Transportation Advisory Committee (unanimous, Yoder absent)
• Approved agenda as written (unanimous, Yoder absent)
• Appointed Angé High as Temporary Acting Clerk to the Board (unanimous, Yoder absent)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to discuss potential modifications to the Zoning Ordinance. Topics include yearly RV permit renewals, limits on guest houses, adding family care homes as a permitted use, and updating parking requirements to match the permitted use table. The board will also consider approving the minutes from the November 18, 2021 meeting and take public comments.

• Discussion of yearly RV permit renewals
• Possible limits on number of guest houses per property
• Adding family care homes as a permitted use (with possible half-mile separation)
• Updating parking requirements to match permitted uses
• Approval of minutes from November 18, 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for December 7, 2021, at 5:00 PM has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting canceled

The Polk County Planning Board unanimously approved a Group Development permit for Jonathan Rowe's self-storage facility off NC Hwy 9, after changes to the number and placement of buildings. The board also agreed to table approval of the December 3, 2020 minutes due to a correction, and discussed several ordinance changes, including asking the County Attorney to attend the next meeting to address water testing in mobile home parks and other legal questions.

• Approved Group Development permit for Jonathan Rowe's self-storage facility (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 12, 2020 (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of December 3, 2020 minutes to next meeting
• Agreed to ask County Attorney to attend next meeting to discuss water testing in mobile home parks
• Agreed to language for alternative buffer in Mobile Home Park Ordinance (6' solid visual barrier fence)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several budget amendments and project approvals. Key items include a renovation project for E911 communications, the purchase of cardiac monitors for EMS, and a resolution regarding employee recruitment and retention.

• E911 Communications Renovation Project agreement and budget ordinance
• Purchase of two cardiac monitors for EMS using ARPA funds
• Solid Waste Budget Amendment of $83,567.98
• Tax refund requests through November 30, 2021, totaling $704.32
• Polk County Schools budget transfers and HVAC project amendment

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several items, including a $147,749 payout of employee compensatory time, a $132,185 budget amendment for increased health premiums, and the use of ARPA funds for two cardiac monitors and a 911 center renovation. They also accepted a PARTF grant for a trail project and approved school HVAC budget transfers. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds, sheriff report, and water supply plan (unanimous)
• Adopted 911 Grant / ARPA Project Budget Ordinance for E911 renovation (unanimous)
• Approved $147,749 employee compensatory time payout (unanimous)
• Approved $132,185 budget amendment for health premium increase (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two cardiac monitors using ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Amended ARPA Grant Project Ordinance to move $1,939,730 for 911 center and $40,000 for monitors (unanimous)
• Accepted PARTF Little White Oak Mtn. Trail Network Phase I Project Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $171,056 transfer for school HVAC project (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold a regular meeting on November 18, 2021, to discuss modifications to the Zoning Ordinance. The main agenda item is a discussion of proposed changes regarding recreational vehicle renewals, guest houses, family care homes, and parking requirements. The board will also approve the agenda and minutes from the September 9, 2021 meeting, and take public comments.

• Discussion of Zoning Ordinance changes for RV renewals, guest houses, family care homes, and parking requirements
• Approval of minutes from September 9, 2021 meeting
• Public comments accepted via email or phone until 4:30 p.m. on October 13, 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for November 2, 2021, at 5:00 PM is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on November 1, 2021, at 5:00 PM. They will consider approving the consent agenda, which includes meeting minutes and tax refunds, and will hear requests for consultant services for the YMCA Recreation Community Center project and a waterline extension on Laughter Road. The board will also review volunteer board applications and may enter closed session for legal and personnel matters.

• Tax refund requests through October 31, 2021, totaling $2,280.81
• YMCA Recreation Community Center Project Committee request for consultant services
• Laughter Road Waterline Extension project bid award and budget ordinance
• Volunteer board applications: Adult Care and Nursing Home Committee (Cornelia Yoder) and Workforce Development (Steve Modlin)
• Closed session for attorney-client privilege and personnel

The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved a contract with Decker Steele and Associates for YMCA project consulting, awarded a $34,130 waterline construction bid to Sugar Hill Contractors, and approved a $39,130 budget ordinance for the project. The board also approved volunteer board appointments, with Commissioner Yoder abstaining due to his wife's application. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included procedural items and citizen comments.

• Approved contract with Decker Steele and Associates for YMCA project consulting (unanimous)
• Awarded Laughter Road waterline bid to Sugar Hill Contractors for $34,130 plus $5,000 contingency (unanimous)
• Approved project budget ordinance for $39,130 (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board appointments: Cornelia Yoder to Adult Care and Nursing Home Committee, Steve Modlin to Workforce Development (unanimous, Yoder abstained)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved the agenda as amended and the consent agenda. They received a presentation from Vaya Health on Medicaid transformation and discussed a third amendment to the Broad River Water District management agreement, but no vote was taken on the amendment, as it awaits review by the Local Government Commission. The meeting adjourned with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including October 4, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Heard Vaya Health Medicaid Transformation update (no action)
• Discussed Third Amendment to Broad River Water District agreement (deferred pending LGC review)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board meeting scheduled for October 14, 2021, at 5:30 PM is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

• Meeting canceled

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to temporarily extend the terms of Planning Board members through June 2021 to complete ordinance revisions required by a state-mandated July 1, 2021 deadline. The board also approved a revised COVID-19 Coronavirus Relief Fund plan, several budget amendments, and volunteer board appointments. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution to extend Planning Board member terms (unanimous)
• Approved revised CRF Polk County Plan (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $5,589.16 and budget amendments (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board appointments (unanimous)
• Approved agenda moving Closed Session after Call to Order (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for October 5, 2021, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

• Meeting canceled

The Planning Board discussed proposed changes to the Mobile Home Park Ordinance, agreeing to require yearly well water testing, screening (evergreens or 6-foot privacy fences), and a two-step approval process involving an authorization letter and a compliance letter. They also reviewed changes to the Subdivision Ordinance required by state law, agreeing to let the Board of Adjustment handle appeals and to allow the Administrator to approve pan-handle lots in small subdivisions. Staff will draft the changes and bring both ordinances back for further review at the next meeting on December 10.

• Agreed to require yearly well water testing at mobile home parks, with results shared with residents and an affidavit filed with the Zoning Department
• Agreed to require screening at mobile home parks, allowing either evergreen plantings (4 feet tall at planting, growing to 6 feet within two years) or privacy fences at least 6 feet high
• Agreed to a two-step approval process for mobile home parks: an authorization letter from the Planning Board and a compliance letter from the Zoning Administrator
• Agreed to allow the Polk County Board of Adjustment to handle all appeals and variances of the Subdivision Ordinance
• Agreed to allow the Administrator to approve pan-handle lots in small subdivisions without Planning Board review
• Agreed to add 'administrative hearing' to the Subdivision Ordinance definitions and correct a misspelling of 'standards'
• Agreed to have staff draft the discussed changes and bring both ordinances back for further review on December 10
• Agreed that four members cycling off would be willing to stay on through July, pending legal and county manager review

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and regular meeting. The main item is a vote on the third amendment and restatement of the Bright's Creek Development Agreement, which extends construction deadlines for phases three through five and requires Aqua NC to provide sewer and water. The board will also consider a change order for the Pea Ridge waterline extension, a lease agreement for St. Luke's, and a school board referendum discussion.

• Third amendment to Bright's Creek Development Agreement: Swim and Fitness Center by end of 2022, phases 3-5 by 2028, 2034, and 2040, with Aqua NC providing sewer/water
• Pea Ridge Waterline Extension change order and budget ordinance amendment
• Resolution to authorize amended and restated St. Luke's lease agreement
• Tax refund requests totaling $536.14
• Reappoint Scott Woodworth to Jury Commission

The Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to remove an agenda item on a potential referendum to make school board elections partisan, instead committing to non-partisan candidate forums for the 2022 election. The board also approved the third amendment to the Bright's Creek Development Agreement, a change order for the Pea Ridge waterline project, an amended lease with St. Luke's Hospital, and a board appointment.

• Removed agenda item on school board referendum (unanimous)
• Approved third amendment to Bright's Creek Development Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $6,950.73 change order for Pea Ridge Waterline Extension (unanimous)
• Adopted amended St. Luke's Lease Agreement (unanimous)
• Appointed Donna (Pat) Linnon to Recycling Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $536.14 and re-appointment of Scott Woodworth to Jury Commission (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings: one on FY 2023 NCDOT community transportation grants and one on amending the lease with St. Luke's Hospital. The board will also consider several action items, including a sole-source purchase for a courthouse thermal security scanner, a $15,000 budget amendment for DSS, and a Lake Adger sand and gravel mine proposal.

• Public hearing on FY 2023 NCDOT Section 5311 (ADTAP), 5310, 5339, 5307 and State Funding Community Transportation Grants
• Public hearing on amending the lease with St. Luke's Hospital
• Purchase order request for sole-source courthouse thermal security scanner
• Budget amendment to appropriate $15,000 from contingency to DSS Fund
• Lake Adger Sand and Gravel Mine Proposal by Warren D. Eadus, Quibble and Associates

The board reached consensus to direct the county attorney to draft a referendum asking voters whether the school board should become a partisan office, with a vote planned for October. They also approved a $22,500 budget amendment for a Lake Adger sand and gravel mine proposal, a $15,000 joint funding request for a forensic interview program, and the FY 2023 NCDOT Community Transportation Grants resolution. All votes were unanimous.

• Directed county attorney to draft a partisan school board referendum (consensus)
• Approved Quible Agreement for Professional Services for Lake Adger mine proposal (unanimous)
• Approved $22,500 budget amendment for Water Capital Project Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 budget amendment for DSS forensic interview program (unanimous)
• Adopted FY 2023 NCDOT Community Transportation Grants resolution (unanimous)
• Approved purchase order to Security Detection Inc. for thermal security scanner (unanimous)
• Approved Mallinckrodt Bankruptcy Plan as claim litigant in National Opioid Litigation (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with NC DOJ and NCACC for opioid litigation (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to consider a minor subdivision application for Paron Estates, a 4-lot development on Grassy Knob Road, and to discuss the county's zoning ordinance. The meeting will be conducted by phone due to safety concerns, with public comments accepted via email or phone.

• Paron Estates minor subdivision (4 lots) on Grassy Knob Road, Tax Parcel P77-72, Cooper Gap Township, average lot size 11.63 acres
• Zoning Ordinance overview and discussion
• Approval of minutes from August 12, 2021 meeting
• Public comments accepted via email or phone by 4:30 p.m. on September 8, 2021

The Polk County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved paying employee compensatory time balances up to $140,000, extended the water district maintenance agreement with Inman Campobello Water District through 2023, and adopted a resolution to amend North Carolina's tier designation system. The board also held an organizational meeting, electing Tommy Melton as Chairman and Beiler as Vice-Chairman, and approved several administrative items including the code of ethics and 2021 holiday schedule.

• Approved employee compensatory time payout up to $140,000 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Broad River Water District and Inman Campobello Water District management agreement, extending to Dec 31, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to amend NC tier designation system (unanimous)
• Elected Tommy Melton as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Beiler as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved public official bonds and premiums (unanimous)
• Approved Polk County Code of Ethics (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 county holiday schedule (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve a consent agenda, adopt several proclamations, and discuss a resolution to declare K-9 Karak as surplus property for his handler to take ownership. They will also consider a resolution on recruitment and retention, including a budget amendment to fund comp time payouts for departing employees, and approve a Recreation Trails Program grant application. The agenda includes multiple proclamations and a closed session for attorney-client privilege.

• Resolution authorizing K-9 Karak to be declared surplus and transferred to his handler
• Budget amendment reducing contingency by $50,000 for comp time payouts to departing employees
• Recreation Trails Program (RTP) grant application approval
• Budget amendments for Kiwanis Club ($2,500) and WNC Health Network ($5,000) revenue sources
• Tax refund requests totaling $1,291.85

The board approved a resolution to address hiring and retention challenges, including a $500 employee referral bonus, overtime pay for specific departments for three months, a $1,000 hiring bonus for new employees, and a $50,000 budget amendment for comp time payouts. It also approved several proclamations, a K-9 sale, a new library logo, and a grant application for trail construction.

• Approved $500 employee referral bonus (unanimous)
• Adopted Recruitment and Retention Resolution with overtime and $1,000 hiring bonus (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 budget amendment for comp time payouts (unanimous)
• Adopted Military Suicide Awareness Proclamation (unanimous)
• Adopted POW/MIA Proclamation (unanimous)
• Adopted 9/11 Remembrance Proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved K-9 Karak surplus sale to handler (unanimous)
• Approved Polk County Libraries new logo (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for September 7, 2021, at 5:00 PM was canceled. No items were discussed or decided.

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and unanimously approved the proposed 2021 Uniform Schedules of Value for the county-wide revaluation, which includes a 30% increase in the base rate for heated square footage of structures. The board also approved a $9,000 budget amendment from contingency for outdoor Christmas decorations for county buildings in Columbus, and a $35 gift card/certificate for each regular part-time and full-time employee in lieu of the canceled Christmas party. A special meeting was scheduled for November 23, 2020 at 11:00 AM to distribute employee awards.

• Approved 2021 Uniform Schedules of Value for county-wide revaluation (unanimous)
• Approved $9,000 budget amendment for outdoor Christmas decorations (unanimous)
• Approved $35 gift card/certificate per regular employee for holiday groceries (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting Nov 23, 2020 at 11:00 AM for employee awards (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $2,676.87 tax refunds and $50,000 budget amendment for inmate medical costs (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will consider several items, including a budget amendment for ARPA funds, an addendum to the 911 communications center MOU, and scheduling a public hearing on a property lease with St. Luke's Hospital. The agenda also includes consent items such as tax refunds and departmental reports.

• Budget amendment for $613,859 to reduce General Fund revenue/expense for ARPA spending and move to Special Revenue Fund 26
• Amended ARPA Grant Project Budget Ordinance
• Addendum to MOU for Management and Oversight of Polk County 911 Communications Center
• Schedule public hearing on Sept 20, 2021 for lease of property with St. Luke's Hospital
• Tax refund requests totaling $35,216.52

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $613,859 budget amendment to move ARPA funds into a special revenue fund, and adopted a new Special Event Policy. They also approved an addendum making the 911 Communications Center MOU perpetual, and scheduled a public hearing for September 20, 2021 on the St. Luke's Hospital lease. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $613,859 ARPA budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Polk County Special Event Policy (unanimous)
• Approved addendum to 911 Communications Center MOU, making it perpetual (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Sept 20, 2021 on St. Luke's Hospital lease (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $35,216.52 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold its regular meeting on August 12, 2021. The main item is a minor subdivision application from Three Fork Land Holding for a 5-lot split at 5156 NC Hwy 9 South. The board will also elect officers and approve the April 8, 2021 minutes. The agenda includes no other substantive items.

• Three Fork Land Holding – Minor Subdivision (5 lots); 5156 NC Hwy 9 South; Tax Parcel P67-9; Cooper Gap Township; average lot size 10.94 acres
• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Approval of April 8, 2021 minutes

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for August 3, 2021, was canceled. No items were discussed or decided.

The Board of Commissioners accepted Vice-Chairman Melton's resignation from the Isothermal Community College Board of Trustees and declared a vacancy. The board then unanimously appointed Marche Pittman as the new Polk County member to the ICC Board of Trustees. The meeting was held electronically and all votes were unanimous.

• Accepted Vice-Chairman Melton's resignation as ICC Board of Trustees appointee (unanimous)
• Declared a vacancy on the ICC Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Appointed Marche Pittman as the new Polk County member to ICC Board of Trustees (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and regular meeting. They will take public comment on naming two private roads Faye Lane and Isaiah Lane, and consider a resolution to lease county property at 94 White Drive to Family Preservation Services of North Carolina for mental health services. The consent agenda includes tax refunds, a budget amendment for the high school HVAC project, and declaring surplus vehicles for auction.

• Public hearing on new road names Faye Lane (off Lake Adger Rd) and Isaiah Lane (off Radar Rd SR 1353)
• Resolution to authorize 5-year lease of 94 White Drive to Family Preservation Services of NC for $1/year
• Budget amendment to transfer Capital Reserve funds for $6.2M Polk County High School HVAC loan issuance costs
• Tax refund requests totaling $5,266.23
• Declare ten Sheriff vehicles and one Public Health vehicle surplus for electronic auction

The Polk County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and regular meeting on August 2, 2021. The board approved new road names Faye Lane and Isaiah Lane, adopted a resolution to authorize a Family Preservation Lease Agreement, and approved volunteer board applications. The consent agenda, including tax refunds, a budget amendment for the high school HVAC project, and declaring surplus vehicles, was also approved.

• Approved new road names Faye Lane and Isaiah Lane
• Adopted resolution to authorize Family Preservation Lease Agreement
• Approved volunteer board applications
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $5,266.23
• Approved budget amendment for Polk County High School HVAC project, increasing to $6,239,788
• Declared ten Sheriff vehicles and one Public Health vehicle surplus for auction

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will consider several items, including approving the consent agenda, a tax refund, a transportation plan, and scheduling a public hearing for new road names. They will also vote on funding for the Pea Ridge Road waterline extension and a YMCA recreation facility, and may adopt a special event policy.

• Transfer $118,881 from fund balance to water capital fund for Pea Ridge Road Waterline Extension
• Approve Project Budget Ordinance for $254,093 for Pea Ridge Road Water Main Extension Phases I and II
• Transfer $110,000 from Capital Reserve to Capital Projects for YMCA Polk County Recreation Facility
• Establish Project Ordinance of $110,000 for YMCA Polk County Recreation Facility
• Approve special event policy, application, and associated fees

The Board approved a $254,093 project budget and awarded a contract to Piedmont Utilities Group, Inc. for both phases of the Pea Ridge Road water main extension, funded by an $118,881 transfer from fund balance. It also approved a $110,000 project ordinance for the YMCA Polk County Recreation Facility planning stage, funded from Capital Reserve. The agenda was amended to remove the Special Event Policy item, and all other items were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda as amended, removing item 10 (Special Event Policy)
• Approved consent agenda including June 21 minutes, tax refunds of $1,543.26, HCCBG plan, road name hearing scheduling, and sheriff's report
• Transferred $118,881 from fund balance to water capital fund for Pea Ridge Road project
• Approved $254,093 project budget ordinance for Pea Ridge Road water main extension
• Awarded contract to Piedmont Utilities Group, Inc. for $254,093 for both phases of Pea Ridge Road water main extension
• Transferred $110,000 from Capital Reserve to Capital Projects for YMCA facility planning
• Established $110,000 project ordinance for YMCA Polk County Recreation Facility
• Appointed Commissioner Yoder as voting delegate and Commissioner Moore as alternate for NCACC annual conference

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment is meeting to handle routine procedural items, including approving the agenda, appointing officers, and hearing public comments. The main substantive item is a review of amended ordinances, including the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, Mobile Home Ordinance, Sign Ordinance, and Zoning Ordinance, among others. These are presented as cover memos for the board's consideration.

• Review of amended Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
• Review of amended Mobile Home Ordinance
• Review of amended Mobile Home Park Ordinance
• Review of amended Sign Ordinance
• Review of amended Zoning Ordinance

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for July 8, 2021, at 5:30 PM was canceled. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Meeting canceled

The Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to make the temporary Community Paramedic position permanent full-time starting January 1, 2021, and approved a $32,829 budget amendment from contingency to fund it. The decision was based on the EMS director's request, supported by the county manager, to reduce ambulance calls and support prevention, education, and training.

• Approved making the temporary Community Paramedic position permanent full-time effective January 1, 2021
• Approved a $32,829 budget amendment from contingency to fund the new position

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for July 6, 2021, was canceled and rescheduled to July 13. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Meeting canceled and rescheduled to July 13

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the Uniform Schedules of Values, Standards, and Rules for the 2021 County-Wide Revaluation. The tax administrator presented data showing Polk County's average sales increase and base rate per heated square foot compared to surrounding counties. The board also approved the consent agenda, including a budget amendment for COVID grant funds, and heard an update from the new Foothills Humane Society director.

• Adopted the Uniform Schedules of Values, Standards, and Rules for the 2021 County-Wide Revaluation.
• Approved the agenda and consent agenda, including October 5, 2020 minutes, tax refunds of $648.49, Vaya Health report, and a $12,105 budget amendment for senior services kitchen equipment.
• Heard a presentation on the 2020 elections and noted potential recounts for Supreme Court and Attorney General races.
• Received an update from the new Foothills Humane Society Executive Director, Bill Coleman.
• Held a closed session for attorney-client privilege and personnel matters.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and vote on the FY2021/22 budget ordinance and a new zoning ordinance required by General Statute 160D. They will also consider several other items, including a new road name, contracts, and budget amendments.

• Adopt Polk County Budget Ordinance for FY2021/22
• Adopt resolution of consistency for text amendments to Polk County Zoning Ordinance (GS 160D)
• Approve Heavenly View Lane as new road name off Peniel Road
• Approve Transportation Medicaid Provider Agreements with One Call and MODIVCARESOLUTIONS
• Budget amendments: $15,100 to capital reserve for Economic Development, $132,885 from Solid Waste Enterprise Fund, up to $150,000 for ARPA vaccine clinic costs, $382,600 for new Special Revenue Fund

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget Ordinance, setting the final tax rate at $0.5143. They also approved the Foothills NC HOME Consortium agreement, which could bring $800,000 in federal funding, and adopted the General Statute 160D zoning ordinance text amendments. Several other items were approved, including a new road name, a conflict of interest policy, and a YMCA recreation facility development committee.

• Approved the FY 2021-2022 Budget Ordinance with a final tax rate of $0.5143.
• Approved the Foothills North Carolina Consortium Joint Cooperation Agreement for the HOME Investment Partnership Act.
• Adopted the resolution of consistency for the text amendments to the Polk County Zoning Ordinance under General Statute 160D.
• Approved the Conflict of Interest Policy.
• Created the Development Committee for the YMCA Recreation Facility and adopted its bylaws.
• Appointed members to the Development Committee, with Michael Baughman as Chairman and Paul 'Little' Beiler as Vice-Chairman.
• Approved multiple budget amendments, including transferring $15,100 to capital reserve, appropriating $132,885 from Solid Waste Enterprise Fund, amending the ARPA grant budget up to $150,000, and creating a new Special Revenue Fund with $382,600 in amendments.
• Approved Heavenly View Lane as a new road name in Polk County.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a budget work session, a public hearing on the proposed FY2021-22 budget, and a regular meeting. Key items include a proposed EMS expansion with a tax rate increase, and adoption of a $4,025,394 ARPA grant. The board will also consider several capital projects and a library strategic plan.

• Budget work session: update on additional EMS positions and tax rate increase
• Public hearing on proposed FY2021-22 budget
• Approve $119,550 for Laughter Pond sediment removal and maintenance
• Adopt $110,905 capital project ordinance for Columbus Library children's area renovation
• Accept $4,025,394 ARPA grant and adopt Grant Project Ordinance

The Board approved a budget amendment and capital project ordinance for $119,550 to remove sediment from the Laughter Pond forebay. They also adopted the Polk County Public Libraries Strategic Plan, approved a $110,905 renovation of the Columbus Library children's area funded by donations, approved a YMCA lease agreement, and accepted a $4,025,394 federal ARPA grant. The tax rate for the FY 2021/22 budget was adjusted to .5143 to fund eight new EMS positions.

• Approved $119,550 for Laughter Pond forebay sediment removal (unanimous)
• Adopted Capital Project Budget Ordinance for $119,550 for forebay project (unanimous)
• Adopted Polk County Public Libraries Strategic Plan 2021-2026 (unanimous)
• Adopted $110,905 Capital Project Budget Ordinance for Columbus Library children's area renovation (unanimous)
• Approved YMCA lease agreement as amended (unanimous)
• Accepted $4,025,394 ARPA grant and adopted Grant Project Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $735.20 and road name hearing (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for June 1, 2021, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget work session to review proposed budgets from various departments, including Public Schools, Sheriff's Office, Elections, EMS, Health and Human Services, and others. The agenda also includes a discussion on the Fire and Rescue Advisory Committee and a revenue-neutral property tax rate discussion. This is a working session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Public Schools budget presentation by Superintendent Aaron Greene
• Sheriff's Department budget covering School Resource Officers, Jail, 911 Communications, and Animal Control
• Health and Human Services Agency budget including Transportation, Health Department, Senior Services, and DSS
• Revenue Neutral Property Tax Rate discussion
• Fire and Rescue Advisory Committee (FRAC) discussion

The Board of Commissioners held a budget work session and heard from department heads, most of whom requested no changes to the recommended budget. The Board did not change the landfill or building inspection fee schedules, and agreed to keep fire department funding at the FRAC recommendation. The Board's consensus was to include additional EMS positions to provide 24/7 ambulance coverage, despite an estimated tax increase of over one cent.

• Consensus to add EMS positions for 24/7 ambulance coverage
• No changes to recommended budgets for schools, sheriff, elections, HHSA, HR, maintenance, MIS
• No changes to landfill fee schedule (including $5 increases)
• No changes to building inspections fee schedule
• Agreed to collect fire prevention permit/violation fees per adopted ordinance
• Agreed to keep fire department funding at FRAC recommendation

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will consider a budget amendment to fund additional election salary and benefit needs, schedule a public hearing on zoning ordinance changes required by state law, reappoint the tax administrator, and approve volunteer board applications. The agenda also includes consent items such as meeting minutes and a Vaya Health quarterly report.

• Budget amendment of $20,474 for Elections salary and benefits
• Schedule public hearing for June 21, 2021 on General Statute 160D zoning revisions
• Reappoint Melissa Bowlin as Tax Administrator for four-year term
• Approve applications to Recreation Advisory Board (Joanna Martinez, Angela Pena, Michelle Saucier, Nicki Tillotson)
• Closed session for attorney-client privilege

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution declaring Polk County a 'Sanctuary County' for the U.S. Constitution, stating that no county funds or resources should be used in contravention of constitutional mandates. The board also approved a $20,474 budget amendment for Elections, scheduled a public hearing on zoning ordinance changes, reappointed the Tax Administrator, and made several other administrative decisions.

• Adopted resolution declaring Polk County a 'Sanctuary County' for the Constitution (unanimous)
• Approved $20,474 budget amendment for Elections salary and benefits (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for June 21, 2021 on zoning ordinance revisions (unanimous)
• Reappointed Melissa Bowlin as Tax Administrator for four-year term (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including April 19 minutes, Vaya Health report, and meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Revised budget calendar to cancel May 18 work session (unanimous)
• Approved four appointments to Recreation Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Held closed session for attorney-client privilege (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for May 13, 2021, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

• Meeting canceled

The Board unanimously approved allowing Polk County Schools to repurpose all funds originally designated for the after-school program (nearly $300,000) for other needs, as the school received a federal grant covering that program. The Board also approved interlocal agreements with Columbus, Tryon, and Saluda to distribute 25% of the second round of CRF-CARES grant funds ($402,210) to those municipalities, and accepted the funds by amending the budget ordinance. Additionally, the Board approved several contracts and property-related actions, including a $27,400 contract for stormwater control plan updates at the Route 9 Landfill and a 10-year lease with Sunny View Fire and Rescue for a telecommunications tower.

• Approved use of all after-school program funds (nearly $300,000) for other school purposes (unanimous)
• Approved interlocal agreements with Columbus, Tryon, and Saluda for 25% of CRF-CARES funds (unanimous)
• Accepted round two CRF-CARES grant funds and amended budget ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved $27,400 contract with Quible & Associates for SESC/SCM updates at Route 9 Landfill (unanimous)
• Approved 10-year lease with Sunny View Fire and Rescue for telecom tower at $1/year (unanimous)
• Directed County Manager to investigate acquisition of 2-acre parcel on Park Street, Columbus (unanimous)
• Approved $27,400 budget amendment for professional services from Solid Waste Enterprise Fund (unanimous)
• Directed Attorney to prepare Quit Claim Deed to correct scrivener's error on 330 Carolina Drive (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners received the recommended balanced FY 2021/22 budget of $35,553,970 with a proposed tax rate of .5045, and unanimously scheduled a public hearing for June 7, 2021. No final budget approval was made; the board will review further at a work session on May 17.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing on FY 2021/22 budget for June 7, 2021 at 5:00 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment has canceled its scheduled meeting for May 4, 2021. No decisions, proposals, or public hearings will take place at this session.

• Meeting cancellation

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on proposed updates to eight land-use ordinances and the Planning Board bylaws, required by new General Statute 160D. Following the hearings, the board will consider adopting a consistency resolution for the text amendments. The agenda also includes routine items like consent agenda approval, a budget work session, and a masking resolution.

• Public hearings on Adult Entertainment, Flood Damage Prevention, Mobile Home, Mobile Home Park, Planning Board, Sign, Subdivision, and Wireless Telecommunication Ordinances
• Adoption of resolution of consistency for text amendments to land-use ordinances
• Approval of FY2021 audit contract with Martin Starnes and Associates
• Tax refund requests through April 30, 2021 totaling $1,953.97
• Consideration of Polk County Masking and Covid Restriction Resolution

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution amending nine land-use ordinances and the Planning Board bylaws to comply with General Statute 160D, including four additional changes presented by staff. The board also approved a $515,000 purchase of 8.55 acres (Tax Parcel P71-97) and a budget amendment, and adopted a masking/Covid restriction resolution.

• Adopted statement of consistency for 160D text amendments to 9 ordinances and bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 8.55 acres for $515,000 from fund balance (unanimous)
• Adopted Polk County Masking and Covid Restriction Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Evalynn Hyra as Animal Cruelty Investigator (unanimous)
• Appointed Kevin Blackwell and Lee Bradley to Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (unanimous)
• Amended County Manager's employment contract to correct 401(k) contribution language (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including FY2021 audit contract and $1,953.97 tax refunds (unanimous)
• Approved budget work session schedule (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will vote on several items, including a $6.2 million project budget for a high school HVAC upgrade, a resolution supporting a dredge grant for Lake Adger, an amended Recreation Complex Master Plan, a PARTF grant application, a property purchase agreement, and a proclamation for public safety telecommunicators. The board will also approve tax refunds and the sheriff's monthly report.

• Project Budget Ordinance for Polk County High School HVAC project, $6,200,000
• Resolution for NC DEQ Shallow Draft Navigation Channel Dredge Grant for Lake Adger (approx. $1.8M project)
• Amended Recreation Complex Master Plan
• PARTF grant application for recreation
• Duke Property Purchase Agreement and budget amendment

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $6.2 million project budget ordinance for the Polk County High School HVAC renovation. They also approved a $50,000 purchase of 2.055 acres from Duke Energy, a $60,000 budget amendment for related costs, and several other items including a recreation master plan update and a grant application.

• Approved $6.2M Project Budget Ordinance for Polk County High School HVAC (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 purchase of 2.055 acres from Duke Energy (unanimous)
• Approved $60,000 budget amendment for survey, legal, and closing costs (unanimous)
• Approved amended Recreation Complex Master Plan (unanimous)
• Approved PARTF grant application for Little White Oak Mountain Trail Network Phase I (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to sponsor Lake Adger dredging project (unanimous)
• Approved DWR No Conflict of Interest Certification (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Cooperative Agreement with NC WRC (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting and work session. They will discuss legislative funding priorities for the county and consider General Statute 160D land use ordinance changes with Planning Board recommendations. The board will also go into closed session for personnel matters.

• Resolution recognizing April 2021 as Isothermal Community College Month
• Discussion of legislative funding consideration priorities for Polk County
• Motion to go into closed session for personnel matters
• General Statute 160D Land Use Ordinance changes and Planning Board recommendations

The Board unanimously amended the County Manager's employment contract, extending it from April 12, 2021 to April 12, 2026, and approved a budget amendment appropriating $11,769 from fund balance to increase salary and benefits per the new contract. The Board also adopted a resolution recognizing April 2021 as Isothermal Community College Month and agreed on three legislative funding priorities to share with Representative Johnson. No other substantive decisions were made; the work session on land use ordinance changes was informational only.

• Adopted resolution recognizing April 2021 as Isothermal Community College Month (unanimous)
• Amended County Manager's employment contract effective April 12, 2021 through April 12, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment appropriating $11,769 fund balance for salary and benefits per new contract (unanimous)
• Agreed on legislative funding priorities: Northbrook Dam renovation, Lake Adger dredging, YMCA community center

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board is meeting to review the Zoning Ordinance Draft 160D, a major update to align with state law. The board will also approve the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and take public comments. The meeting is being held remotely due to COVID-19, with public participation by phone or email.

• Review of Zoning Ordinance Draft 160D
• Approval of minutes from March 11, 2021
• Public comments accepted via email or phone
• Remote meeting access via phone (1-301-715-8592, Meeting ID 821 9144 8792)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for April 6, 2021, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

The Board unanimously approved resubmitting the NC Hwy. 108 Scenic Byway application as an extension of the existing Pacolet River Byway, using a route starting at the bridge in Lynn on Highway 108, right on Harmon Field Road, connecting to Hwy 176. They also approved a $39,107 budget amendment reallocating funds to temporarily reclassify a part-time breastfeeding counselor position to full-time for COVID-19 support. New road names (Keenan Way, Red Bell Ln, Long Ears Ln, Old Kuykendall Dr, Lake Pointe Ln) were approved, and all eight volunteer applicants for Animal Cruelty Investigators were appointed.

• Approved resubmitting the scenic byway application as an extension of the Pacolet River Byway with the route: bridge in Lynn on Hwy 108, right on Harmon Field Rd, connecting to Hwy 176.
• Approved a budget amendment moving $33,636 from Senior Services and $5,471 from Health Funds (total $39,107) for COVID-19 support.
• Approved reclassifying the part-time breastfeeding counselor position to full-time temporary for COVID-19 response (Aug 3, 2020 - June 30, 2021).
• Approved new road names: Keenan Way, Red Bell Ln, Long Ears Ln, Old Kuykendall Dr, and Lake Pointe Ln.
• Appointed all eight applicants as Animal Cruelty Investigators: Nancy Hasselbring, Martin Keynton, Stephen King, Brandon Knox, Nancy Phelps, Laurel Pyatt, Charles Rounds, Margo Savage.
• Removed the Polk County Litter Clean Up agenda item at the request of Jamie Davidson.
• Approved the consent agenda including July 20, 2020 minutes, tax refunds of $797.47, and the Home and Community Care Block Grant plan.
• Held a public hearing with no citizen comments on the proposed new road names.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will vote on a resolution to finance school improvements with a low-interest installment agreement, and will consider a timeline for updating land-use ordinances under new state law. The board will also hear reports on child protection, broadband expansion, and a contract for employee services, plus several routine consent items.

• Resolution to finance school improvements via installment agreement (lowest proposal Bank of America, 2.186%)
• Approve ordinance review timeline and schedule public hearing for May 3, 2021 on General Statute 160D land-use changes
• Budget amendment to appropriate $15,000 fund balance for EMS part-time salary coverage
• Tax refund requests through March 2021 totaling $113.45
• Memorandum of Understanding with Henderson County for shared radio communication

The board approved a resolution to finance school improvements with Bank of America at 2.186%, and adopted a timeline for the 160D land use ordinance update with a public hearing set for May 3, 2021. They also approved the CCPT annual report, a proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month, a contract with St. Luke's Hospital, and several other items.

• Adopted resolution for school improvement financing (Bank of America, 2.186%) (unanimous)
• Approved 160D land use ordinance update timeline and scheduled public hearing for May 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved CCPT annual report and adopted Child Abuse Prevention Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved St. Luke's Hospital contract for employee services (unanimous)
• Adopted Spring Litter Cleanup Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds, sheriff's report, and EMS budget amendment (unanimous)
• Appointed volunteers to Appearance Commission, Isothermal Community College Board, and Library Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will consider approving a memorandum of understanding with the YMCA of Greater Spartanburg to operate county recreation facilities and programs, and will select an auditor for fiscal years 2021-2023. The board will also vote on a revised meeting schedule and an appointment to the Animal Control Board.

• MOU with YMCA of Greater Spartanburg to operate Gibson Park Pool, Stearns Gym, and other recreation facilities
• Audit proposals for FY21-FY23; recommended firm Martin Starnes & Associates at $64,200 for FY21
• Revised regular meeting time and updated meeting schedules
• Appointment to Animal Control Board vacancy
• Approval of March 1, 2021 minutes

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the YMCA of Greater Spartanburg to begin a recreation partnership, with a lease agreement to be presented later. They also awarded a $64,200 audit contract to Martin Starnes & Associates, revised the meeting schedule to 5:00 pm, and appointed Anita Williamson to the Animal Control Board.

• Approved MOU with YMCA of Greater Spartanburg (unanimous)
• Awarded FY2021 audit contract to Martin Starnes & Associates for $64,200 (unanimous)
• Approved revised meeting schedule with 5:00 pm regular meeting time (unanimous)
• Appointed Anita Williamson to Animal Control Board (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold a regular meeting on March 11, 2021, to consider updates to the Mobile Home Park Ordinance and the Subdivision Ordinance, as well as approve minutes from prior meetings. The meeting will be accessible by phone for public participation, with comments accepted via email or phone before the meeting.

• Review of Mobile Home Park Ordinance draft (160D.3.11.2021)
• Review of Subdivision Ordinance changes
• Approval of minutes from December 3, 2020 and February 11, 2021 meetings
• Public comments accepted via email or phone until 4:30 p.m. on March 10, 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment to allocate 25% of CARES grant funds to municipalities based on sales and use tax per capita. The board also approved reclassifying a solid waste position from part-time to full-time, appointed a voting delegate for the NCACC conference, and approved a volunteer board application. All motions were unanimous.

• Approved CARES fund allocation to municipalities (unanimous)
• Approved solid waste position reclassification to full-time (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner Gasperson as NCACC voting delegate (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner Moore as NCACC alternate delegate (unanimous)
• Appointed Vice-Chairman Melton to 911 Communications Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Approved Cathy Brettman to Appearance Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds and budget amendment (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment will continue its February 2, 2021 meeting, addressing a variance application (Thorpe 2021-01) and noting the withdrawal of a conditional use application (Smith 2021-02). The board will also approve minutes from November 10, 2020, and handle other business and public comments.

• Variance application Thorpe 2021-01 (VA)
• Conditional use application Smith 2021-02 (CU) withdrawn
• Approval of minutes from November 10, 2020
• Continuation of February 2, 2021 meeting

The Polk County Board of Adjustment held a procedural meeting on July 7, 2020. The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the December 10, 2019 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was adjourned after these procedural items.

• Approved the meeting agenda unanimously
• Approved the December 10, 2019 meeting minutes unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings: one on a proposed installment financing agreement not exceeding $6,200,000 for HVAC and other improvements at Polk County High School, and another on naming a private road Henson Hideaway Lane. Following the hearings, the board may adopt a resolution to request Local Government Commission approval for the financing, and also consider the 2020 delinquent tax report, a resolution on occupancy tax, and a volunteer board appointment.

• Public hearing and possible approval of $6,200,000 installment financing for PCHS HVAC project
• Public hearing and possible approval of new road name: Henson Hideaway Lane
• Resolution requesting Local Government Commission approval for school financing
• 2020 uncollected (delinquent) tax report and motion to advertise and collect unpaid taxes
• Resolution seeking to modify occupancy tax for Polk County, City of Saluda, and Town of Tryon

The Board of Commissioners held public hearings and unanimously approved a resolution to seek state approval for an installment financing agreement of up to $6,200,000 for HVAC and other improvements at Polk County High School. They also approved the new road name 'Henson Hideaway Lane' and adopted a resolution to seek legislation modifying the occupancy tax for Polk County, Saluda, and Tryon. The board charged the tax administrator to advertise and collect 2020 unpaid taxes, and appointed Michael Meissner to the Recreation Advisory Board.

• Adopted resolution requesting Local Government Commission approval for $6.2M HVAC financing for Polk County High School
• Approved new road name 'Henson Hideaway Lane'
• Adopted resolution seeking to modify occupancy tax for Polk County, Saluda, and Tryon
• Charged tax administrator to advertise and collect 2020 unpaid taxes
• Appointed Michael Meissner to the Recreation Advisory Board
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, tax refunds, and sheriff's report
• Approved agenda as presented

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will consider a budget amendment and project ordinance increase for a countywide radio communication system, and schedule a public hearing on financing for Polk County High School maintenance improvements. The board will also hear updates on Charter Communications' rural broadband expansion, Isothermal Community College, and dam and waterline projects.

• Budget amendment to appropriate $659,966 for countywide radio communication project; amended Project Ordinance to $861,476
• Motion to schedule public hearing for installment financing agreement for Polk County High School maintenance project
• Charter Communications Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) expansion update
• Resolution declaring surplus real property (P116-123) and authorizing sale by electronic public auction
• Adopt Plat Review Officer Resolution appointing Hannah Lynch, Cathy Ruth, and Kristy Tipton

The Board unanimously approved a budget amendment appropriating $659,966 from fund balance for phase two of the countywide radio communication system, which will interconnect with Henderson County. They also approved the amended project ordinance increasing the project total to $861,476. The Board scheduled a public hearing for March 1, 2021, to consider financing for Polk County High School maintenance improvements and adopted a resolution for that hearing.

• Approved $659,966 budget amendment for radio communication project (unanimous)
• Approved amended Project Ordinance increasing radio project to $861,476 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for high school financing on March 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on installment financing for school improvements (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including meeting minutes, meeting schedule, plat review resolution, road name hearing, transportation plan, surplus property resolution, and Vaya Health report (unanimous)
• Appointed volunteer board applicants to Columbus Fire Tax Commission, Equalization and Review Board, and Fire and Rescue Advisory Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Brian Metcalf as Chairman of Equalization and Review Board (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2021/2022 budget calendar (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to consider a group development application by William Nichols, review and potentially approve updates to the Mobile Home Park Ordinance, Mobile Home Ordinance, and Subdivision Ordinance, and handle other business. The meeting will be conducted by phone due to COVID-19, with public comments accepted by email or phone.

• Group Development Application - William Nichols
• Mobile Home Park Ordinance review
• Mobile Home Ordinance review
• Subdivision Ordinance review
• Approval of minutes from December 3 and December 10, 2020

The Board of Commissioners held a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged matters, including allegations of misconduct at the 911 Communications Center. They directed Attorney Berg to investigate the allegations and asked the Sheriff to present a management proposal on June 1, 2020, with a vote scheduled for June 15, 2020. The Board also approved and sealed the February 17, 2020 closed session minutes.

• Directed Attorney Berg to investigate allegations of unacceptable personal conduct at 911 Communications Center
• Requested Sheriff to present 911 Communication Management Proposal on June 1, 2020
• Scheduled Board vote on 911 management for June 15, 2020
• Approved and sealed February 17, 2020 closed session minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to consider two land-use applications: a variance request (Thorpe 2021-01) and a conditional use permit (Smith 2021-02). The board will also vote on approving minutes from its November 10, 2020 meeting. The agenda includes public comments and other business items.

• Variance application - Thorpe 2021-01 (VA)
• Conditional use permit application - Smith 2021-02 (CU)
• Approval of minutes from November 10, 2020 meeting
• Public comments period
• Meeting at Bryant H. Womack Building, 40 Courthouse St., Columbus, NC

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on February 1, 2021, to discuss and vote on several items, including an update on Big Bradley Falls, a school maintenance project, a legal services agreement for water system regionalization, and a resolution to amend a 2016 installment financing agreement for the law enforcement facility. The agenda also includes a consent agenda with routine items such as meeting minutes, tax refunds, and a budget amendment.

• Tax refund requests through January 2021 in the amount of $777.73
• Budget Amendment to appropriate $5,592 from Emergency Management grant funds for equipping the EMG vehicle
• Water Authority Counsel Agreement with Womble Bond Dickinson LLC for water system regionalization
• Resolution to adopt First Amendment to 2016 Installment Financing Agreement for law enforcement facility
• Big Bradley Falls update from NC Wildlife Resources Commission

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to receive comments on six proposed new road names, then vote on approving them. The board will also hear presentations on a landslide map update and the 2021 county revaluation, and consider a request from Green Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue to extend a waterline. A resolution affirming support for citizens' constitutional rights and safety is also on the agenda.

• Public hearing and vote on proposed road names: Beauty Hill Ln, Foch Mountain Trail, Morgan Run, Dragonfly Trail, Wildcat Way, Friendly Hills Lane
• Presentation by NC Geological Survey on landslide map update
• 2021 Polk County revaluation information from Wampler-Eanes Appraisal Group
• Green Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue request to extend waterline
• Resolution to assure citizens' safety is top priority and support constitutional rights

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and unanimously approved six new road names, including Dragonfly Mountain Trail after a name adjustment. They also adopted a resolution affirming citizen safety and constitutional rights, and agreed to explore extending a waterline for Green Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue. The meeting included presentations on landslide mapping and the 2021 property revaluation, with notices to be mailed in February.

• Approved new road names: Beauty Hill Ln, Foch Mountain Trail, Morgan Run, Dragonfly Mountain Trail, Wildcat Way, Friendly Hills Ln (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to assure citizen safety and support constitutional rights (unanimous)
• Agreed to have County Manager pursue engineer design and cost estimate for Green Creek waterline extension
• Changed meeting time to 5:00 pm for trial period through March
• Approved consent agenda including December 7, 2020 minutes and CSBG application submission

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for January 14, 2021, at 5:30 PM has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

• Meeting canceled

The Polk County Board of Commissioners held a budget work session and made consensus amendments to the FY2020-21 budget. They increased part-time salary funding by $12,000 for additional EMG support, offset by a decrease in transfer to HS. They also increased EMPG grant revenue by $12,000 to fund a new planning position, offset by a decrease in transfer-in from GF revenue. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Increased part-time salary 10-4330-1240-0 by $12,000 for EMG support (consensus)
• Decreased transfer to HS 10-9800-9820-0 by $12,000 (consensus)
• Increased EMPG grant revenue 20-3315-3650 by $12,000 for new planning position (consensus)
• Decreased transfer-in from GF revenue 20-3330-0800 by $12,000 (consensus)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for January 5, 2021, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

Board of Commissioners

The Polk County Board of Commissioners is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda that includes approval of prior meeting minutes, tax refunds, budget amendments, and scheduling a public hearing for proposed road names. They will also receive a COVID-19 vaccine update, consider a resolution to temporarily extend planning board member terms, and review amendments to the county's Coronavirus Relief Fund plan. The meeting includes a closed session for attorney-client privilege.

• Tax refund requests totaling $5,589.16
• Budget amendment transferring $16,805 for JCPC programs
• Budget amendment adding $16,704 for JCPC programs
• Budget amendment appropriating $25,186 to DSS for vehicle replacement
• Budget amendment transferring $25,000 from Sheriff salaries to Sheriff capital for vehicle equipment

The Polk County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to temporarily extend the terms of Planning Board members through June 2021 to complete ordinance revisions required by the state's July 1, 2021 deadline. The board also approved the consent agenda, a revised COVID-19 relief fund plan, and volunteer board appointments. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a COVID-19 vaccine update and commissioner comments.

• Approved resolution to extend Planning Board member terms (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds, budget amendments, and road name hearing (unanimous)
• Approved revised CRF Polk County Plan (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board appointments (unanimous)