Polk County public meetings in 2023

Board of Adjustment

The Board approved several updates to the Permitted Use Table, including changes to definitions for bed and breakfasts, event venues, and indoor shooting ranges. Discussions regarding manufacturing and recreational facilities were tabled for further research.

• Removed 'internet café' from use definition (Unanimous)
• Added two-week time limit to bed and breakfast definition (Unanimous)
• Replaced 'retreat centers' with 'event venues' and updated definition to 'organized gatherings' (5-1)
• Combined boarding houses and dormitories with motels and hotels (Unanimous)
• Removed 'skeet, trap and black powder' from indoor shooting range definition (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on light vs heavy manufacturing definitions
• Tabled discussion on recreational facilities and centers

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment voted unanimously to approve a special use permit for Gabe and Jami Temple to operate an RV park and campground on 26 acres in a Multiple Use zoning district. The board also considered a separate special use permit request from Craig Taffaro, but the agenda includes only deliberation minutes for that item, with no decision recorded. The meeting included public comments and other business.

• Approved Special Use Permit Docket No. 2023-03 (SU) for Gabe and Jami Temple for an RV park/campground with four campsites on 26 acres
• Conditions include: operate under submitted park rules, substantially adhere to site plan, provide fire extinguishers at each site, mark property boundaries
• Board noted fire marshal approval of roads and NCDOT driveway permits
• Second special use permit request by Craig Taffaro (same docket number) was on the agenda; deliberation minutes attached but no decision recorded

The Planning Board unanimously approved a minor subdivision for Jeremy Wood consisting of four residential lots on 8.99 acres. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from April 12, 2023.

• Approved Minor Subdivision for Jeremy Wood, 4 lots on 8.99 acres (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 12, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to discuss and decide on two special use permit requests. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from a September 2022 session.

• Special Use Permit Request - Gabe and Jami Temple (Docket No. 2023-03 (SU))
• Special Use Permit Request - Craig Taffaro (Docket No. 2023-04 (SU))

The Board approved the closed session minutes from November 21, 2022. Members reached a consensus for the County Manager to develop a plan of action regarding a Rescue Squad Call Report.

• Approved and sealed November 21, 2022 closed session minutes (unanimous)
• Reached consensus for Manager Pittman to meet with Bobby Arledge and Michael Crater to develop a plan of action regarding the Polk County Rescue Squad Call Report

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners elected Commissioner Yoder as Chairman and Commissioner Melton as Vice-Chairman. The Board also approved several new road names and a property easement relocation.

• Elected Commissioner Yoder as Chairman (5-0)
• Elected Commissioner Melton as Vice-Chairman (5-0)
• Approved November 20, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved annual examination of Public Official Bonds (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund request of $106.54 (unanimous)
• Approved Housing Assistance property easement relocation (unanimous)
• Approved new road names: Copper Fox Lane, Steam Shovel Pike, Iron Avenue, Gold Bend, Copper Way, and Lead Fork (unanimous)
• Decided to take no action on USGS creek naming

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the E911 Renovation Project and potential engineering agreements for the Turner Shoals Dam. The body is also considering a budget amendment to reimburse Polk County Schools for capital expenses.

• Proposed $120,000 agreement with GEI Consultants of North Carolina, P.C. for Turner Shoals Dam engineering services
• Proposed $400,000 agreement with GEI for Turner Shoals Dam field engineering and Quality Control Inspection Program support
• Proposed $151,587 transfer from Capital Reserve Account to reimburse Polk County Schools for capital expenses
• Approval of Construction Manager At Risk (CMAR) contract with Harper Construction for E911 Renovation Project
• Tax refund request totaling $367.71

The Board of Commissioners approved construction and engineering contracts for county infrastructure projects. They also authorized a budget transfer for school capital expenses and the payout of employee compensatory time.

• Approved contract with Harper General Contractors for E911 Renovation Project (unanimous)
• Approved GEI Consultants agreement for Turner Shoals Dam engineering not to exceed $120,000 (unanimous)
• Approved GEI Consultants agreement for Turner Shoals Dam field engineering and QCIP support for $400,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $151,587 transfer from Capital Reserve Account to Polk County Schools (unanimous)
• Approved payout of accrued employee compensatory time from departmental budgets (unanimous)
• Approved Tryon Elementary PreK Addition Project pay application #5 (unanimous)
• Appointed Patrick Overholt and Catherine Rogerson to Columbus Fire Department Board of Directors (unanimous)
• Approved $367.71 tax refund request (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Board is meeting to discuss a draft of the Watershed Ordinance. The board will also consider the approval of meeting minutes from June, September, and October 2023.

• Review of draft Watershed Ordinance including updates to definitions, subdivision, and development regulations

The Board of Commissioners met in closed session to receive updates on litigation and a property acquisition opportunity. The Board unanimously approved and sealed the closed session minutes from September 6, 2022.

• Approved and sealed September 6, 2022 closed session minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss extending recruitment and retention measures for county employees. The meeting includes a budget amendment for courthouse project funds and a capital campaign update for the YMCA.

• Recruitment and Retention Resolution: $1,000 hiring bonus for new employees hired between January 1 and June 30, 2024
• Budget amendment of $26,400 for Dogwood Trust grant funds for the WAVE project in the courthouse
• Tax refund request in the amount of $528.08
• YMCA Capital Campaign Update presented by Rick Kiernan
• Approval of the Regular Meeting Schedule for January 2024 through June 2024

The Board unanimously approved a budget amendment of $26,400 for Dogwood Trust grant funds and extended the Recruitment and Retention Resolution through the fiscal year to address staffing shortages in the Sheriff's Department and EMS. They also approved the meeting schedule for January through June 2024 and a $528.08 tax refund.

• Approved budget amendment of $26,400 for Dogwood Trust grant funds (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund request of $528.08 (unanimous)
• Extended Recruitment and Retention Resolution for Sheriff and EMS (unanimous)
• Approved regular meeting schedule for January-June 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved October 16, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment is meeting to continue a hearing regarding a Special Use Permit request. The session includes time for other business and public comments.

• Continuation of Special Use Permit Request - Gabe and Jami Temple (Docket No. 2023-04)

The Polk County Board of Adjustment held an evidentiary hearing and approved a side setback variance from 50 feet to 20 feet for Lot 5 on Appaloosa Lane (Hidden River Subdivision). The board determined that the applicant did not create the hardship, that the small lot size and existing neighborhood conditions warranted the variance, and that no separate variance was required for the minimum buildable lot size under Section 8.3 of the zoning ordinance. All four required variance conditions passed with a 5-0 vote.

• Approved side setback variance from 50 feet to 20 feet for Lot 5 on Appaloosa Lane (5-0)
• Determined no separate variance was required for minimum buildable lot size per Section 8.3 (5-0)
• Adopted findings that unnecessary hardship exists under strict application of the ordinance (5-0)
• Adopted findings that hardship results from conditions peculiar to the property and neighborhood (5-0)
• Adopted findings that hardship did not result from actions of the applicant (5-0)
• Adopted findings that the variance is consistent with the spirit, purpose, and intent of the ordinance (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:11 pm

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to ban skateboards, roller skates, and scooters on public roads in unincorporated areas. The board is also considering resolutions regarding I-26 road safety and educational attainment goals.

• Proposed ordinance prohibiting skateboarding, roller skating, and scootering on public roads with fines up to $500
• Resolution urging NCDOT to remedy road hazards and accidents along the I-26 grade in the Cove Creek area
• Proposed goal to increase high-quality credentials or postsecondary degrees by 3,478 individuals by 2030
• Sale of eight Health and Human Services (HHSA) surplus vehicles via Govdeals
• Resolution supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans

The Board of Commissioners adopted an ordinance restricting skateboarding on specific public roads following a public hearing. The Board also approved resolutions regarding educational attainment, I-26 safety, and veteran support.

• Adopted ordinance prohibiting skateboarding on certain public roads (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution of local educational attainment for MyFutureNC partnership (unanimous)
• Approved resolution urging NCDOT to remedy safety and environmental issues on I-26 grade (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans (unanimous)
• Appointed Ange' High as Temporary Acting Clerk (unanimous)
• Declared eight Health and Human Services vehicles as surplus for electronic sale (unanimous)
• Approved Brian McCrodden for Appearance Commission and Robert F. Scruggs for Tryon Fire District Tax Commission (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Board is meeting to review a draft of the Watershed Ordinance. The session will also include the approval of minutes from June and September 2023.

• Discussion of draft Watershed Ordinance including updated definitions and development regulations

The Board reviewed updates to the Permitted Use Table, including definitions for Event Venues and Recreational Facilities. It was decided to add recommended changes regarding Bed and Breakfasts, Boarding Houses, and Dormitories to the Ordinance for further review.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to merge Recreational Facilities definitions and add a separate Event Venue definition
• Decided to add recommended changes for Bed and Breakfast, Boarding House, and Dormitory definitions to the Ordinance for further review

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a Special Use Permit request. The board will also review and approve minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting.

• Special Use Permit Request - Gabe and Jame Temple - Docket No. 2023-02 (SU)

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract with Ameri-Con Materials, Inc. for the Green River Sand and Gravel project. The board also approved a consent agenda that included tax refunds, a library renovation budget amendment, and new policies for American Rescue Plan funds.

• Approved $0 contract with Ameri-Con Materials, Inc. (5-0)
• Granted County Manager signatory authority for dredging contract (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds of $523.74 (5-0)
• Approved library renovation budget amendment (5-0)
• Adopted non-discrimination resolution for ARPA funds (5-0)
• Adopted record retention policy for ARPA funds (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding a new road name and address changes resulting from a City of Saluda project. The board will also receive an update on the Turner Shoals Dam.

• Proposed new road name: Twin Oaks Drive (Private Road off SR1514) in Columbus Township
• 24 address changes due to City of Saluda readdressing project on streets including Crescent Street and Louisiana Avenue
• Tax refund request totaling $823.70
• Proposed public hearing for a Skateboard Ordinance scheduled for October 16, 2023
• Turner Shoals Dam update from Odom Engineering, PLLC

The Board approved a new private road name and address changes resulting from a City of Saluda project. Officials also scheduled a public hearing for a proposed skateboarding ordinance.

• Approved September 18, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund request of $823.70 (unanimous)
• Approved road name Twin Oaks Drive in Columbus Township (unanimous)
• Approved address changes for 22 households due to City of Saluda project (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing for proposed Skateboard Ordinance on October 16, 2023 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to apply for FY 2025 community transportation grants. The body will also discuss school capital funding and property tax revaluation.

• FY 2025 Polk County Transportation Authority grant application for $422,244 with a $50,682 local share
• Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund request for the Tryon Elementary PreK Addition Project
• NCDOT Prioritization 7 Resolution
• Appointment of Nigel Stroud to the Town of Tryon Planning Board as an Alternate ETJ Applicant
• Re-appointment of Scott Woodworth to the Jury Commission

The Board of Commissioners approved grant applications for the Polk County Transportation Authority and adopted the NCDOT Prioritization 7 Resolution. The Board also authorized a distribution payment for Polk County Schools and appointed a temporary acting clerk.

• Appointed Ange' High as Temporary Acting Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved September 5, 2023, Regular Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Scott Woodworth to the Jury Commission (unanimous)
• Approved third distribution payment for Polk County Schools (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to submit FY2025 PCTA grant applications (unanimous)
• Approved NCDOT Prioritization 7 Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Nigel Stroud as Town of Tryon Planning Board Alternate ETJ Applicant (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will consider a minor subdivision request for Tricycle Hill Rentals. The board will also hold a discussion regarding the Zoning Ordinance as it relates to RVs and vacation rentals.

• Tricycle Hill Rentals minor subdivision: 7 lots on 18.16 acres in Columbus Township
• Discussion on Zoning Ordinance regarding RV/Vacation Rentals

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for September 5, 2023, was canceled.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider a budget amendment for courthouse repairs and a tax refund. The body is also scheduling three public hearings regarding road naming, Saluda address changes, and community transportation grants.

• Budget amendment of $23,850 for courthouse gable repair with Champion Construction Group
• Tax refund request in the amount of $2,318.24
• Public hearing for proposed new road name on October 2, 2023
• Public hearing for City of Saluda address changes on October 2, 2023
• Public hearing for FY2025 NCDOT Community Transportation Grants on September 18, 2023

The Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment and contract for courthouse repairs. They also scheduled three public hearings and approved several proclamations and volunteer board appointments.

• Approved $23,850 budget amendment and contract for Champion Construction Group for courthouse gable repair (unanimous)
• Approved $2,318.24 tax refund request (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for proposed new road name for October 2, 2023 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for City of Saluda address changes for October 2, 2023 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for FY2025 Community Transportation Grants for September 18, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Water Shortage Response Plan Resolution (unanimous)
• Adopted proclamations for Military Suicide Awareness, POW/MIA, September 11 remembrance, and Preparedness Month (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board applications for Mary Ratcliffe (Library Board of Trustees) and Dorothy Weatherby (Economic & Tourism Development Commission) (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and vote on proposed amendments to the County Zoning Ordinance. The meeting also includes several budget amendments for infrastructure and facility projects.

• Public hearing and vote on Zoning Ordinance Amendments
• Purchase order for Republic Services, Inc. for trash hauling and disposal in the amount of $1.2 million
• Budget amendment of $371,559 for Phase II of the Solid Waste Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Project
• Budget amendment of $68,650 for the Harmon Field Paving Project
• Acceptance of a $13,100 bid for surplus property on Rambling Creek Dr., Tryon

The Board unanimously approved text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance regarding outdoor shooting ranges. Other key actions included approving a $1.2 million trash hauling contract and a $68,650 paving project for Harmon Field.

• Adopted Zoning Ordinance text amendments regarding outdoor shooting ranges (unanimous)
• Approved $1.2 million purchase order for Republic Services, inc. for trash hauling and disposal (unanimous)
• Approved $68,650 budget amendment for Harmon Field Paving Project (unanimous)
• Accepted $13,100 bid for surplus property Parcel P116423 on Rambling Creek Dr. (unanimous)
• Approved $371,559 budget amendment for Phase II of Solid Waste Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Project (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 budget amendment to finalize Board of Elections Renovation Project (unanimous)
• Approved $30,845.75 in tax refund requests (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board applications for Animal Cruelty Investigators, Economic & Tourism Development Commission, and Fire Rescue Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The meeting scheduled for August 10, 2023, has been canceled.

Board of Adjustment

The August 1, 2023, regular meeting of the Polk County Board of Adjustment was canceled.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss school capital expenses and a grant for library programs. The body is also scheduling a public hearing for proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments.

• Proposed transfer of $532,823.31 to reimburse Polk County Schools for capital expenses
• Acceptance of a $16,500 Carolina Foothills Foundation grant for a library mobile kitchen
• Budget amendment of $50,000 for the countywide radio communication system
• Scheduling of a public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendments on August 21, 2023
• Tax refund requests totaling $4,956.86

The Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment to reimburse Polk County Schools for capital expenses and authorized several grant-funded projects. The Board also scheduled a public hearing for zoning ordinance amendments and approved various board appointments.

• Approved $532,823.31 reimbursement to Polk County Schools for capital expenses (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 budget amendment for countywide radio communications system (unanimous)
• Approved $16,500 grant for a mobile kitchen for public libraries (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendments for August 21, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023/24 Juvenile Crime Prevention Council funding plan and membership (unanimous)
• Approved payment for Tryon Elementary PreK addition (unanimous)
• Extended 911 Grant Agreement to June 1, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved multiple volunteer applications for county boards and commissions (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss proposed amendments to the Polk County Zoning Ordinance. The presentation will be led by Planning/Economic Development Director Cathy Ruth.

• Proposed amendments to the Polk County Zoning Ordinance

The Board of Commissioners met to hear a presentation on proposed amendments to the Polk County Zoning Ordinance from Planning/Economic Development Director Cathy Ruth. No votes were taken on the amendments during this meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The meeting scheduled for July 13, 2023, was canceled.

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a variance request for a 0.70-acre lot in the Hidden River subdivision. The applicants are seeking deviations from minimum buildable lot size and side setback requirements.

• Variance request for Lot 5, Appaloosa Lane (Tax Parcel P61-173)
• Request to reduce minimum buildable lot size from 5 acres to 0.70 acre
• Request for reduced side setback requirements
• Property is located in the Residential Estate/Very Low Density (RE-5) zoning district

The Board approved an interlocal agreement allowing the Town of Columbus to use the county fueling facility. The Board also approved a grant match for senior services and processed tax refunds.

• Approved Interlocal Fuel Sharing Agreement with Town of Columbus (unanimous)
• Appropriated $1,225 from contingency for Senior Services grant match (unanimous)
• Approved Budget Amendment to increase revenue and expense for Senior Services grant match (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund requests totaling $28,683.78 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for July 4, 2023, was canceled. The agenda contains no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting canceled

The Board of Adjustment conducted an evidentiary hearing regarding a Special Use Permit application for the expansion of Wilderness Cove Campground. The applicant presented plans for a two-phase development including glamping tents, cabins, and RV sites. The provided minutes end before a final decision was recorded.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will vote to adopt the Tax Levy and Budget Ordinance for the 2023/24 fiscal year. The meeting also includes decisions on school capital fund requests and an interlocal agreement for fire safety services.

• Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2023/24 Budget Ordinance and Tax Levy
• Lease agreement with NC Forest Service for office space at 2881 NC HWY 108 ($2,400 per year)
• Cancellation of $8,416.91 in uncollectible EMS debt for deceased patients
• School funding requests for Tryon Elementary PreK addition, Tryon Elementary dishwasher, and Polk County High School gym roof
• Interlocal Agreement between Town of Columbus and Polk County for Fire Safety Services

The Board unanimously adopted the Tax Levy and Budget Ordinance for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Other key actions included accepting a $599,997 opioid grant and approving several school capital fund requests.

• Adopted Tax Levy and Polk County Budget Ordinance for FY 2023-24 (unanimous)
• Accepted $599,997 Dogwood Trust Opioid Grant (unanimous)
• Approved Tryon Elementary PreK Addition project payment (unanimous)
• Approved Polk County High School gym roof replacement (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new dishwasher for Tryon Elementary (unanimous)
• Approved fire safety services agreement with Town of Columbus at $50 per inspection (unanimous)
• Approved revised Fire Rescue Advisory Committee (FRAC) bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved $65,957 budget amendment for Health Department (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board is meeting to discuss a proposed minor subdivision. The board will also consider the approval of minutes from the April 13, 2023 meeting.

• Jeremy Woods Minor Subdivision: 4 lots, P124-64, 8.99 acres, Green Creek Township

Board of Adjustment

The meeting scheduled for June 6, 2023, was canceled. No items were decided or discussed.

The Board of Commissioners discussed legal requirements for meetings outside official sessions and a grant extension for the Bulldog/Santanna Tool Project. The Board reached a consensus to proceed with a nuisance abatement action on a specific property. Manager Pittman presented an inspection report for Parcel ID C7-J12.

• Consensus reached to move forward with nuisance abatement action

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a budget work session and a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget. The board will also consider several administrative approvals, including a housing study resolution and a fire safety agreement.

• Public hearing on the proposed FY 2023-2024 budget
• Tax refund request for $10,459.89
• Budget amendments: $70,000 decrease in DSS group health insurance for vehicle purchases and $75,000 Bulldog grant reimbursement
• Resolution in support of a Polk County Housing Study
• Interlocal Agreement with City of Saluda for Fire Safety Services

The Board of Commissioners passed a resolution opposing partisan school board elections and approved a resolution to conduct a housing study funded by The Dogwood Trust. The Board also approved an interlocal agreement for fire safety services with the City of Saluda and several budget amendments.

• Approved resolution opposing partisan school board election method (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to conduct a housing study by Foothills Regional Council of Government (unanimous)
• Approved interlocal agreement with City of Saluda for fire safety inspections at $50 per inspection (unanimous)
• Approved $10,459.89 tax refund request (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment to decrease DSS excess budget by $70,000 to purchase two vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 reimbursement to County to return to Dept. of Commerce for Bulldog grant (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of D. Marche Pittman to Isothermal Community College Board of Trustees and Rick Delfosse to Columbus Fire District Tax Commission (unanimous)
• Set consensus to change proposed budget increase to .0075 for Columbus Fire Department

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing manager-recommended budget details for several county departments. The session includes presentations from school and college leadership, the Sheriff's Department, and the Health and Human Services Agency.

• Budget review for Polk County Schools
• Budget review for Isothermal Community College
• Budget review for Sheriff's Department, including Jail and 911 Communications
• Budget review for Health and Human Services Agency, including Social Services and Veterans Services
• Proposed fee changes for Transportation and Solid Waste

The Board reached a consensus to approve a $34,109 budget request for Isothermal Community College. The Board also approved tax rate increases for Saluda, Tryon, and Mill Spring fire departments, while deferring a decision on the Columbus Fire Department.

• Approved $34,109 budget request for Isothermal Community College (consensus)
• Approved 0.01 increase for Saluda Fire Department (consensus)
• Approved 0.01 increase for Tryon Fire Department (consensus)
• Approved 0.03 increase for Mill Spring Fire Department (consensus)
• Deferred decision on Columbus Fire Department increase pending further information

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the naming of T Five Ranch Road. The meeting includes decisions on YMCA project funding, school repair grants, and various budget transfers.

• Proposed naming of T Five Ranch Road off Peniel Road in Columbus Township
• Appropriation of $77,023 from fund balance to the YMCA Project Capital Project Fund
• Contract with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions for a six-month YMCA Capital Campaign
• Request for Polk County Schools to move $299,386 in Special Appropriation Funds to general operations
• Application for $177,900 from the NC Education Lottery Public School Building Repair & Renovation Fund

The Board of Commissioners approved a six-month YMCA capital campaign contract and an amended budget ordinance for the YMCA project. They also approved a $177,900 NC Education Lottery budget for floor repairs at Polk County High School and the naming of T Five Ranch Road.

• Approved six-month Capital Campaign Contract with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions
• Approved transfer of $77,023 to the YMCA Project Capital Project Fund
• Approved amended Capital Project Budget Ordinance
• Approved Form of Agreement for Needs Based Public School Capital Fund Pre-K expansion
• Approved Annual Report for Tryon Elementary Pre-K expansion
• Approved $177,900 NC Education Lottery budget for Polk County High School floor repairs
• Approved new road name T Five Ranch Road
• Cancelled May 16, 2023 Budget Worksession

Board of Adjustment

The regular meeting of the Polk County Planning Board scheduled for May 11, 2023, was canceled. No items were decided or discussed.

The Board of Commissioners met in a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged matters. Cathy Ruth presented a draft amendment of the Brights Creek Development Agreement. No votes or final decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will receive a presentation on the FY 2023/24 Balanced Budget from Manager Pittman. The body will also consider scheduling a public hearing for citizen comment on the budget.

• Presentation of FY 2023/24 Balanced Budget
• Proposed public hearing for FY 2023/24 Budget on June 5, 2023

The Board received a recommended balanced budget of $41,307,888.00 for Fiscal Year 2023/2024. The Board voted to schedule a public hearing for citizen comment on the budget for June 5, 2023.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Scheduled FY 2023/24 Budget public hearing for June 5, 2023, at 5:00pm (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The regular meeting scheduled for May 2, 2023, was canceled. No items were decided or discussed.

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $6.5 million grant project budget ordinance for rehabilitation of the Turner Shoals Dam at Lake Adger, funded by the State Capital and Infrastructure Fund. They also approved adding Green River Cove Road to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan for future safety improvements, and entered into a property exchange with Steps to Hope involving two parcels and $33,000. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $6.5M grant project budget ordinance for Lake Adger dam rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Added Green River Cove Rd. to Comprehensive Transportation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved property exchange with Steps to Hope: county acquires 0.57 acres plus improvements, gives 0.66 acres plus $33,000 (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension on Bulldog Industries grant contract (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including budget amendments, tax refunds, and GREAT grant agreements (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recognizing April 2022 as Isothermal Community College Month (unanimous)
• Approved Economic Development Priorities (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board appointments for Health and Human Services and YMCA Recreation Development Committee (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a YMCA feasibility study and a grant agreement with the North Carolina Department of Internet Technology. The body is also considering budget amendments for the Sheriff's office and Farmer's Markets, as well as a staffing change for Solid Waste.

• NCDIT / GREAT Grant Agreement for Manager Pittman's signature
• Budget amendment of $74,265 for Sheriff salary overage and Priority Dispatch contract
• Budget addition of $10,000 grant for Farmer's Markets part-time staff
• Project budget amendment of $2,148 for Columbus Children's Library
• Tax refund requests totaling $1,102.12

The Board of Commissioners approved a three-party agreement with NCDIT to secure over $12 million in broadband investment for Polk County. Other actions included approving budget amendments for the Sheriff's office and Farmer's Markets, and converting a Solid Waste position to full-time.

• Approved NCDIT/GREAT Grant Agreement for broadband investment (unanimous)
• Approved $74,265 budget amendment for Sheriff salary overage and Priority Dispatch contract (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 budget addition for Farmer's Markets part-time staff (unanimous)
• Approved conversion of a part-time Solid Waste accounts receivable position to full-time (unanimous)
• Approved $1,102.12 in tax refund requests (unanimous)
• Approved $2,148 amendment to Columbus Children's Library project budget (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for proposed new road name for May 15, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer board applications for Library Board and Saluda Fire District Tax Commission (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board is meeting to consider two land use requests. The board will review a proposed minor subdivision and a property recombination.

• Staley Contracting, LLC: Minor Subdivision for 3 lots on 3.5 acres in Columbus Township (P84-182)
• Derbyshire Recombination (P97-268) in Community Space

The Board of Commissioners met with Kristy Tipton regarding her potential appointment as Clerk to the Board. The Board reached a consensus to formalize the appointment in an open session.

• Consensus reached to formalize Kristy Tipton's appointment as Clerk to the Board in open session

Board of Adjustment

This meeting of the Polk County Board of Adjustment, scheduled for April 4, 2023, has been canceled. The agenda contains no items for discussion or decision.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve funding for broadband infrastructure and extend employee recruitment incentives. The body will also discuss the 2025 tax revaluation and review uncollected taxes from 2022.

• Allocation of $250,000 in ARPA Revenue Replacement Funds for a Department of Information Technology broadband project with Charter
• Extension of Recruitment and Retention Resolution, including $1,000 hiring bonuses for new employees through June 30, 2023
• Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Tryon for Fire Safety Services
• Addendum to the 2017 MOU between Polk County and Rutherford County E-911 Communications
• Tax refund request for CVS of Columbus #7008 in the amount of $739.07

The Board approved $250,000 in ARPA funds for a broadband project with Charter and an interlocal agreement with the Town of Tryon for fire safety services. Commissioners also authorized the collection of $1,175,447.27 in delinquent 2022 taxes and extended an E-911 communications agreement with Rutherford County.

• Approved $250,000 ARPA Revenue Replacement Funds for DIT broadband project with Charter (Unanimous)
• Approved $739.07 tax refund (Unanimous)
• Adopted proclamation declaring April 2023 Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention Month (Unanimous)
• Directed Tax Administrator to collect $1,175,447.27 in delinquent 2022 taxes (Unanimous)
• Approved tax refund requests and release of rollback taxes (Unanimous)
• Approved interlocal agreement with Town of Tryon for fire safety services at $50 per inspection (Unanimous)
• Approved addendum to 2017 MOU with Rutherford County E-911 Communications (Unanimous)
• Approved Carolyn Baughman to the Library Board of Trustees (Unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing and voting on the adoption of the Foothills Regional Comprehensive Transportation Plan. This long-range plan outlines proposed roadway modernizations, intersection improvements, and multi-modal transportation goals for the next 25 to 30 years.

• Proposed adoption of the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP)
• Amendment to Polk County High School HVAC Project Budget Ordinance for $1,840
• Tax refund requests totaling $517.94
• Temporary Construction Easement Agreement between Polk County, Jasmine LLC and Route 74 LLC
• Resolution in support of a Workforce Facility for Isothermal Community College

The Board of Commissioners adopted the Comprehensive Transportation Plan and affirmed the 2017 Vision Plan. Other actions included approving a workforce facility resolution and the sale of a retiring K-9 officer. The Board also approved several volunteer board applications.

• Adopted Comprehensive Transportation Plan and affirmed 2017 Vision Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution in support of a Workforce Facility (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution and purchase agreement for sale of K-9 Officer Jumper (unanimous)
• Approved temporary construction easement agreement with Jasmine LLC and Route 74 LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $517.94 in tax refunds (unanimous)
• Approved $1,840 budget amendment for Polk County High School HVAC project (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of five volunteer board applicants (unanimous)
• Declared IT equipment as surplus for electronic sale (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board will meet to discuss two requests for minor subdivisions. The board will also review the minutes from the February 9, 2023 meeting.

• McMurray Family Trust minor subdivision: 4 lots on 43.3 acres in Green Creek Township
• Peniel Farm minor subdivision: 4 lots on 4.5 acres in Columbus Township

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for March 7, 2023, is canceled. No items will be discussed or decided.

• Meeting canceled

The commission unanimously approved a recommendation to send a draft policy to the Board of County Commissioners for adoption. The meeting also included updates on workforce development resources, agricultural markets, and tourism budget performance.

• Approved minutes from December 14, 2021 (unanimous)
• Recommended policy to the Board of County Commissioners for adoption (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the adoption of a Digital Inclusion Plan and a new road name. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding the naming of Alpine South Drive and a review of the US Census Bureau count.

• Proposed naming of Alpine South Drive (Private Road off SR1004) in Green Creek Township
• Polk County Digital Inclusion Plan (eligible for $50,000 and $25,000 grants from Dogwood Health Trust)
• Memorandum of Understanding with Green Creek Volunteer Fire Rescue, Inc. for E911 backup center
• US Census Bureau Count Review Request
• Scheduling of a public hearing for the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) on March 20, 2023

The Board of Commissioners approved a digital literacy and broadband access plan and established new vendor fees for the Polk County Farmers Market. Other actions included approving a new road name and appointing members to the Equalization & Review Board.

• Approved Digital Inclusion Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Human Resource Policy annual updates (unanimous)
• Approved US Census Bureau count review request (unanimous)
• Approved Farmers Market fees of $5 per day or $100 per season (3-2)
• Approved new road name Alpine South Drive (unanimous)
• Appointed five regular members and one alternate to the Equalization & Review Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Paula Powell as Chairperson for the Equalization and Review Board (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Green Creek Volunteer Fire Rescue, Inc. for E911 backup center (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2023/2024 budget calendar and a supplemental agreement for opioid litigation funds. The body is also considering a budget amendment for a temporary building inspector and various board appointments.

• Budget amendment of $19,580 for a temporary full-time regular building inspector
• Resolution and Supplemental Agreement for Additional Funds (SAAF) regarding opioid litigation settlements
• Approval of the FY 2023 Audit Contract
• Public hearing scheduled for March 6, 2023, regarding proposed new road names
• Resolution supporting the 9-1-1 Saves Act

The Board approved a $19,580 budget amendment to hire a temporary full-time building inspector. Other actions included approving the 2023/2024 budget calendar and a resolution regarding opioid litigation funds.

• Approved temporary full-time building inspector and $19,580 budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved 2023/2024 Budget Calendar (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting the 9-1-1 Saves Act (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution and Supplemental Agreement for Additional Funds for opioid litigation (unanimous)
• Appointed Tony Dale to the Planning Board for Columbus Township (unanimous)
• Appointed Michelle Fortune to the Foothills Workforce Development Board (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 Audit Contract (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for proposed new road names for March 6, 2023 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Board approved a 10-lot subdivision at Brights Creek - Jackson Ridge, pending plat revisions for road frontage. The board also discussed updates to the Zoning Ordinance and reviewed 10-year residential building permit trends.

• Approval of Brights Creek - Jackson Ridge P29-524 10.01 acre subdivision (10 lots, 5.01 acres open space)
• Requirement for plat redrawn to show 50' road frontage per lot in the cul-de-sac
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance noise restrictions for data processing facilities
• Tabling of the Zoning Ordinance permitted uses appendix for further deliberation

The Board of Commissioners received briefings on a Health and Human Services Agency attorney situation and opioid litigation. The Board directed the County Attorney to research the appointment process and contract information for the HHSA attorney.

• Directed Attorney Berg to research HHSA attorney appointment process and contract information

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for February 7, 2023, at 5:00 PM has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review grant award recommendations for stream rehabilitation projects. The meeting includes votes on several service contracts and applications for volunteer boards. A closed session is scheduled to discuss property acquisition.

• Contract with Stream Initiative for $79,560 (North Pacolet River and White Oak Creek projects)
• Contract with Jay's Lawn Service and Landscaping for $152,500 (Upper Green River project)
• Contract with South Core Environmental for $42,500 (Lower Green River project)
• Volunteer applications for Green Creek Fire Tax Commission, Mill Spring Fire Tax Commission, and Board of Adjustment
• Review of Community Action Opportunities, Inc. CSBG application and Community Anti-Poverty Plan

The Board approved the purchase of approximately 20 acres of land from Route 74 Hwy 108 LLC for $500,000 and accepted a 7-acre land donation from the same entity. Three contracts for Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program (StRAP) projects were awarded. Several appointments were made to fire tax commissions and the Board of Adjustment.

• Approved $500,000 purchase of ~20 acres from Route 74 Hwy 108 LLC (unanimous)
• Authorized acceptance of ~7-acre land donation from Route 74 Hwy 108 LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $79,560 contract with Streaminitiative for North Pacolet River and White Oak Creek projects (unanimous)
• Approved $152,500 contract with Jay's Lawn Service and Landscaping for Upper Green River project (unanimous)
• Approved $42,500 contract with South Core Environmental for Lower Green River project (unanimous)
• Appointed John Blanton, Bruce Collins, and Paul Howard Stacy to Green Creek Fire District Tax Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed John Perry McDowell, Jeff Craig Reid, and Steve Shehan to Mill Spring Fire District Tax Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Adrienne Reilly to the Board of Adjustment (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is deciding on the purchase of property at 2881 East Hwy 108 and a related lease agreement. The body is also reviewing budget amendments for building renovations and staffing changes.

• Appropriation of $791,859 for property purchase at 2881 East Hwy 108
• Budget amendment of $150,000 for Elections Building renovation
• Budget amendment of $41,687 to convert two part-time positions to full-time
• Budget amendment of $23,155 to convert two part-time positions to one full-time temporary position
• Recommendation for 2025 Revaluation Contract

The Board of Commissioners approved several budget amendments for property acquisition and building renovations. They also renewed a property revaluation contract and appointed members to various county boards.

• Approved $791,859 budget amendment to purchase property at 2881 East Hwy 108 (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 budget amendment for Elections Building renovations (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 revaluation contract with Wampler-Eanes Appraisal Group not to exceed $278,525 (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment of $23,155 to convert two part-time HHS positions to one full-time temporary position (unanimous)
• Approved grant-funded part-time temporary position for 4-H program (unanimous)
• Approved updated Library Circulation and Gifts and Donations policies (unanimous)
• Approved hold-over lease with Jay's Landscaping for Hwy 108 property (unanimous)
• Approved participation in national opioid settlement proposals with CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Teva and Allergan (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Planning Board is meeting to discuss a proposed subdivision and updates to the Zoning Ordinance. The board will review a specific development application for a 10.01-acre parcel.

• Brights Creek - Jackson Ridge P29-524: proposed 10 lot subdivision on 10.01 acres with 5.01 acres of open space
• Zoning Ordinance draft updates
• Review of building permits

The minutes record an overview of the Brights Creek Development agreement and a listing of Sheriff Department Litigation. No votes or final decisions were recorded for these items.

Board of Adjustment

The Polk County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for January 3, 2023, at 5:00 PM has been canceled. No items were discussed or decided.