Scotland County public meetings in 2021

Board of Health

The Scotland County Board of Health will meet to discuss administrative reports, unfinished business including the COVID-19 vaccine requirement policy and agency strategic plan, and new business such as available COVID-19 funding and new lab fees. The board will also consider position reclassifications and a closed session on personnel matters.

• Discussion of COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy
• Discussion about available COVID-19 funding
• New lab fees: DHEA, Serum $55.00; Sex Horm Binding Glob, Serum $35.00
• Position reclassifications: Nutritionist I, Nutritionist II, WIC Director/Nutritionist II
• Closed session for personnel matters per NC GS 143-318.11(a)(6)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board will hold a regular meeting to approve the agenda and previous meeting minutes. The board will also review an administrative report and receive an information technology update.

• Approval of November 18, 2021, meeting minutes
• Review of Administrative Report
• Information Technology Update

The Scotland County DSS Board unanimously approved sending a COVID-19 bonus proposal to the County Manager for review at the January 3, 2022 commissioner meeting. The proposal would provide tiered bonuses of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 to all DSS staff, costing about $275,000. The board also discussed ongoing server issues and accepted the December administrative report.

• Approved sending COVID bonus proposal to County Manager for commissioner review (unanimous)
• Accepted December 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Accepted November 18, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will review broadband study results from the Lumber River Council of Governments, consider a corrective commissioner's deed, discuss a vaccine incentive program, and take up a broadband project. The meeting includes a closed session to consult with the county attorney.

• Broadband study results presented by Lumber River Council of Governments
• Corrective Commissioner's Deed considered by County Attorney Ed Johnston and County Manager Kevin Patterson
• Vaccine Incentive Program discussed by County Manager Kevin Patterson
• Broadband Project discussed by County Manager Kevin Patterson
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(a)(3) for attorney consultation

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved extending the vaccine incentive program until April 4, 2022, after hearing that about $90,000 in gift cards had been ordered and funds remained from the original $375,000 appropriation. The board also unanimously approved a corrective commissioner's deed to add the City of Laurinburg to a foreclosed property deed, and unanimously passed a resolution supporting ATMC's broadband project in Scotland County. No other substantive decisions were made; the board entered closed session and conducted no business afterward.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved corrective commissioner's deed adding City of Laurinburg (unanimous)
• Extended vaccine incentive program to April 4, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution of support for ATMC broadband project (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will reorganize by electing a chair and vice chair, then vote on the agenda and hear public comments. They will consider consent items including tax refunds, a surplus truck sale, and a water assistance allocation, plus a new SCATS position and a property purchase for the Livingston Quarters Recycling Center. Updates are scheduled from a state representative and the health director on COVID-19, including a possible face covering requirement. The meeting ends with a closed session on personnel and economic development.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair of the Board
• Approve October tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Approve surplus: 1999 Volvo Rolloff Truck and 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer
• New SCATS position presented by Transportation Director
• Livingston Quarters Recycling Center property purchase

The Board of Commissioners elected Whit Gibson as chair and John Alford as vice chair, approved a new SCATS position, authorized a survey for the Z.V. Pate property purchase, extended the face covering requirement until after the holidays, and approved several other items including tax releases and a land swap proposal.

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners is meeting solely to enter a closed session under North Carolina law to consult with the county attorney, preserving attorney-client privilege. No public action or discussion items are on the agenda; the meeting is procedural and limited to this single item before adjournment.

• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(a)(3) to consult with attorney

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners met in special session and unanimously voted to enter a closed session to consult with the county attorney, citing attorney-client privilege. Upon returning to open session, the board took no action and adjourned unanimously. No substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for attorney consultation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting with no further business (unanimous)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is holding a regular meeting. The main action item is the adoption of a Local Government Records and Retention and Disposition Schedule, which requires a board vote. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the agenda, minutes, and an administrative report, plus an open forum and an executive session.

• Adoption of Local Government Records and Retention and Disposition Schedule (action item)
• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2021 meeting
• Approval of administrative report
• Open Forum for public comment
• Executive Session

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several rezoning requests and public hearings for conditional use permits. The meeting also includes updates on COVID-19, financial reports, and the sale of a county vehicle to the City of Laurinburg.

• Public hearings for rezonings requested by William Bethea and James A. Soles
• Public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit for Henry Gibson Solar
• Approval of fire service contracts for Laurinburg, North Scotland, Spring Hill, Laurel Hill, and Gibson
• Sale of 2007 Ford Expedition (VIN #1FMFK16507LA72026) to the City of Laurinburg
• Review of COVID-19 State of Emergency

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners approved a special use permit for a solar farm by Henry Gibson Solar, two rezoning requests, and extended the face covering requirement until December 10, 2021. The board also approved using $150,000 in ARP funds for the Scotland Community Health Clinic and approved the consent agenda, which included tax refunds, the 2022 holiday schedule, and fire service contracts. The IE Johnson project ordinance was tabled.

• Approved special use permit for Henry Gibson Solar farm (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning from RA to Highway Commercial for William Bethea (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning from HC to RA for James A Soles (unanimous)
• Extended face covering requirement until December 10, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 in ARP funds for Scotland Community Health Clinic (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds, 2022 holiday schedule, and fire service contracts (unanimous)
• Approved RLUAC bylaws revisions (unanimous)
• Tabled IE Johnson project ordinance

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is holding a regular meeting with routine procedural items, including approving the agenda, minutes, and an administrative report. The board will also hold an open forum and an executive session, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed in the agenda.

• Approve agenda for October 28, 2021
• Approve minutes from September 16, 2021
• Approve administrative report
• Open forum for public input
• Executive session

The Scotland County DSS Board met on October 28, 2021, and unanimously accepted the agenda, the September minutes, and the October administrative report. No action items requiring a vote were presented. The board also entered executive session to discuss personnel matters and then adjourned.

• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted September 16, 2021 board minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted October 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous)
• Exited executive session and adjourned (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Scotland County Board of Health will meet to discuss and potentially approve a COVID-19 vaccine requirement policy, as well as new vaccine prices and other administrative items. The agenda includes public comment, approval of previous minutes, and reports from the health director.

• Discussion of COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy
• Approval of new vaccine prices: Afluria Quadrivalent (6-35 months) $21.00, Afluria Quadrivalent (36 months+) $21.00
• Agency Strategic Plan Discussion
• Discussion of upcoming board elections for next year

The Scotland County Board of Health tabled discussion of the COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy until the next meeting, with all members in favor. The board also approved new pricing for two flu vaccines, moved the Strategic Plan discussion to December, and received financial reports showing the operating budget was 20.6% under budget as of September 30, 2021.

• Tabled COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy discussion until next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved new prices for Afluria Quadrivalent vaccines: $21.00 for CPT 90687 and $21.00 for CPT 90688 (unanimous)
• Moved Agency Strategic Plan discussion to December Regular Session meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved August 17, 2021 minutes as presented (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding solar use permits and rezoning requests. The meeting also includes discussions on COVID leave policy, the I.E. Johnson Report, and the Laurel Hill Community Center.

• Public hearing for Gum Swamp Solar Conditional Use Permit
• Public hearing for Antonio Cruz Torres rezoning
• Public hearing for William Bethea rezoning
• Discussion of COVID Leave Policy
• Review of State of Emergency and COVID-19 update

The Board approved a conditional (special) use permit for Gum Swamp Solar, LLC to build a solar farm on approximately 760 acres, contingent on county attorney review of the order. The Board also extended the face covering requirement until November 12, 2021, and approved 80 hours of COVID leave for eligible employees. Commissioner John Alford announced his resignation effective December 31, 2021.

• Approved conditional use permit for Gum Swamp Solar farm (unanimous, contingent on attorney review)
• Extended face covering requirement until November 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved 80 hours COVID leave for full-time and permanent part-time employees with positive test (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning from residential to highway commercial for Antonio Cruz Torres (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refunds/releases and prior minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Lyle Shaw, John F. Stewart, Leon Butler, Marcus Norton to Historic Properties Board (unanimous)
• Authorized county manager to work with Love Project for December distribution event (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners approved a $400,000 American Rescue Plan fund allocation for a DSS program to cover medical expenses for eligible residents, with a maximum benefit of $500 per individual (up to $750 with DSS director approval). The board also unanimously approved adding a fourth ambulance stationed at the Wagram Recreation Center, operating 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, at an estimated annual cost of $205,000. A vaccine incentive program was approved, offering $25 for the first shot, $50 for the second, or $50 for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, with a total expenditure of $375,000, effective September 24 through December 31, 2021. The board also approved the consent agenda, including the Stewartsville Fire Department contract, and directed staff to bring back a proposed COVID sick leave policy at the October meeting.

• Approved $400,000 ARP fund allocation for DSS medical expense program (unanimous)
• Approved fourth ambulance at Wagram Recreation Center, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, $205,000/year (unanimous)
• Approved vaccine incentive program: $25 first shot, $50 second, $50 J&J, total $375,000 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including Home and Community Care Block Grant closeout, additional DSS funding, and Stewartsville Fire Department contract (unanimous)
• Directed HR to bring proposed COVID sick leave policy to October meeting (consensus)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is holding a regular meeting with routine items like approving the agenda, minutes, and an administrative report. The main action item is a vote on the I E Johnson Renovation project, though no details are provided in the agenda.

• Approve agenda for September 16, 2021 meeting
• Approve minutes from August 19, 2021 meeting
• Approve administrative report
• Action item: I E Johnson Renovation (vote)

The Scotland County DSS Board met on September 16, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the August 19 meeting. No action items requiring a vote were presented. The board received the director's administrative report covering budget, personnel, child support, Medicaid, adult services, child welfare, SCATS, and new initiatives.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 19, 2021 board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No action items requiring a vote were presented

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting, covering routine consent agenda items, updates from Scotland Health System and the NC Works Career Center, a public hearing on the SCATS 5311 grant, and a discussion of Edwards Wood Products. The board will also review the COVID-19 state of emergency and enter a closed session to discuss economic development incentives. The agenda includes several informational updates and appointments.

• Public hearing on SCATS 5311 grant
• Discussion of Edwards Wood Products
• COVID-19 update and State of Emergency review
• Closed session on economic development incentives
• Approval of July tax refunds, releases, and discoveries

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners extended the face covering requirement in the state of emergency for 30 days by a 5-1 vote, with Commissioner Ivey voting nay. The board also voted 5-1 to take ownership of the I.E. Johnson building from the school system and begin phase 1 of a renovation project, with Commissioner McCall opposed. A motion to have the chair appoint members to an IDF Grant review committee failed 3-3, and a subsequent motion for volunteers and a letter to state representatives passed unanimously.

• Extended face covering requirement in state of emergency for 30 days (5-1)
• Approved consent agenda including July tax refunds, releases, and discoveries (unanimous)
• Approved SCATS FY2023 5311 grant application for $158,909 (unanimous)
• Approved motion for volunteers to IDF Grant review committee and letter to Rep. Pierce and Sen. McInnis (unanimous)
• Approved taking ownership of I.E. Johnson building and beginning phase 1 renovation (5-1)
• Appointed Stephanie Littles to Transportation Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved Board of Education members to participate in school system life insurance policy (unanimous)
• Failed motion to have chair appoint IDF Grant review committee members (3-3)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is meeting for its regular session. The agenda includes reviewing the administrative report and considering a county salary study.

• Approval of July 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Review of Administrative Report
• Discussion of County Salary Study

The Scotland County DSS Board met on August 19, 2021, and unanimously accepted the agenda, the July 15 meeting minutes, and the administrative report for July. No action items requiring a vote were presented. The report covered updates on child support, Medicaid audits, foster care caseloads, SCATS operations, and a proposed $200,000 COVID-19 relief program.

• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted July 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted July administrative report (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review administrative reports, approve minutes from April 20, 2021, and consider several new business items. The agenda includes proposed changes to laboratory pricing and the approval of $115,000 in new funding for a school system liaison.

• Proposed lab price increases for Rabies Titer and UPS
• Review of FY22 Fee Schedule
• Approval of $115,000 for ELC Reopening Schools SH Liaison (PHN Nurse Liaison)
• New policies regarding COVID-19 vaccine requirements and text messaging
• Discussion of Board Chair and Vice Chair appointment terms

The Scotland County Board of Health approved several administrative items, including lab fee increases, the FY22 fee schedule, and new funding for a school liaison nurse. The board also approved a COVID-19 vaccine requirement policy for employees, but after discussion of legal concerns, it voted to table the policy until the next regular meeting. The board approved a separate policy for text messaging for public health messages and appointment reminders.

• Approved agenda and April 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved lab fee increases, FY22 fee schedule, and $115,000 ELC Reopening Schools funding (motion carried)
• Approved Text Messaging for Public Health Messages and Appointment Reminders policy (motion carried)
• Approved COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy (motion carried)
• Tabled COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Policy until next regular session (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will meet on August 9, 2021, at the Edwin Morgan Center in Laurinburg. The agenda includes a single substantive item: a discussion of the IE Johnson Project. The rest of the meeting is procedural, with a call to order and adjournment.

• Discussion of the IE Johnson Project (no details provided in the agenda)

The Board of Commissioners held a special meeting to discuss the I.E. Johnson Restoration Committee's proposal. After extensive discussion about costs, building conditions, and potential partnerships, the Board unanimously approved a motion directing the county manager to gather information and return with firm costs for the project at the September meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to have county manager gather information and return with firm costs on I.E. Johnson project at September meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners is meeting to handle routine approvals, hear updates on a single-family housing grant and COVID-19, and consider appointments to boards and committees. The agenda also includes reports on the IE Johnson facility and Laurel Hill Community Center.

• Approve June tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Approve 2020-21 taxes settlement
• Approve DSS preplacement policy and fee schedule
• Authorize April Snead for SCATS grants and reimbursement
• COVID-19 update from Health Director Eli Caldwell

The Board unanimously approved the county manager's framework for spending $3.3 million in American Rescue Plan funds, which includes $350,000 for Partners in Ministry over two years, subject to ARP eligibility. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including tax releases and refunds, and moved a school lease payment from capital to operating. No other substantive decisions were made; the I.E. Johnson building discussion was informational only.

• Approved ARP spending framework including $350K for Partners in Ministry (unanimous)
• Approved $175K per year for two years to Partners in Ministry if ARP-allowable (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases/refunds and DSS policy (unanimous)
• Approved moving school lease payment from capital to operating (unanimous)
• Appointed Juanita Bowen to Aging Advisory Committee (unanimous)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is holding its regular July 2021 meeting to approve routine administrative items, including minutes, an administrative report, and several policy and records-retention schedules. The board will also elect officers for fiscal year 2022 and review its strategic plan, with an August training canceled by the UNC School of Government.

• Pre-Placement Assessment/Report to the Court Policy and Fee Schedule approval
• NC Archives Retention Schedule acknowledgement and approval
• NC Department of Cultural Resources Records and Retention Disposition Schedule approval
• Election of Officers for Fiscal Year 22
• FY 22 Strategic Plan Review

The Scotland County DSS Board approved the Pre-Placement Assessment/Report to the Court Policy and Fee Schedule, with no fee changes. The board also accepted the NC Archives Retention Schedule and the NC Department of Cultural Resources Records and Retention Disposition schedule. Officers were re-elected for FY 22: Leon Butler as Chair and Dorothy Tyson as Vice Chair. The board entered executive session to discuss the county social services director's qualifications and employment.

• Approved the Pre-Placement Assessment/Report to the Court Policy and Fee Schedule (no fee changes).
• Accepted the NC Archives Retention Schedule and the NC Department of Cultural Resources Records and Retention Disposition schedule.
• Re-elected Leon Butler as Board Chair for FY 22.
• Appointed Dorothy Tyson as Vice Chair for FY 22.
• Entered executive session to consider the county social services director's qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment.
• Re-entered regular session and adjourned the meeting.

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners and the Board of Education will hold a joint meeting to discuss the budget and next steps. The agenda includes procedural items, a budget discussion, and possible closed session for personnel and legal matters. The meeting is primarily a discussion and planning session, with no specific budget figures or decisions listed.

• Joint budget discussion between the Board of Commissioners and Board of Education
• Possible closed session under NC General Statute 143-318-11(a)(1), (a)(3), (a)(6) for personnel, student records, and attorney consultation
• Approval of personnel reports for new certified and non-certified staff
• Superintendent's report to be presented by Dr. LeGrand
• Motion to confirm next steps

The Board of Commissioners and Board of Education reached a compromise on school funding for the 2021-22 year, setting the amount at $10 million. This followed a failed motion to keep funding at $10,044,000 and a counterproposal from the school board. The school board unanimously accepted the $10 million level. The boards also agreed to have county and school finance officials work with the Department of Public Instruction to refine the funding formula before next year's budget.

• Approved $10 million in school funding for 2021-22, unanimously by both boards.
• Rejected a motion to keep school funding at $10,044,000 (motion died for lack of a second).
• Approved a motion to set school funding at $9,950,000 (4-1, Commissioner BJ Gibson dissenting), later superseded by the $10 million agreement.
• Approved a motion to have the county manager and school CFO work with DPI to resolve the funding formula before next budget year (unanimous).
• Approved entering closed session to consult with the attorney (unanimous).
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous).

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will elect a chair for the remainder of 2021, hear a budget presentation from the Southeast Airport Authority, and discuss follow-up on the IE Johnson matter. They will also decide on a bid for the Laurel Hill Community Center and receive a COVID-19 update. The agenda includes a consent agenda with routine approvals and surplus vehicle declarations.

• Election of Board Chair for remainder of 2021
• Southeast Airport Authority budget presentation
• Laurel Hill Community Center bid decision
• Approval of May tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Surplus vehicles: 2007 Chevrolet Colorado, 2004 Ford F-250, 2014 Ford F-350 Bus, 2007 Ford Explorer XL, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500

The Board of Commissioners reviewed the Tax Collector's June 2021 report, which included releases totaling $84,715.78 and discoveries of $10,531.82. The board also reviewed bid tabulations for the Laurel Hill Community Center project, with TCC Enterprises, Inc. appearing as the apparent low bidder at $2,689,000. No formal action was recorded in the minutes.

• Reviewed tax releases totaling $84,715.78 for June 2021
• Reviewed tax refunds for June 2021, with all refunds due to overpayment
• Reviewed discoveries totaling $10,531.82 for June 2021
• Reviewed bid tabulations for Laurel Hill Community Center project
• Noted TCC Enterprises, Inc. as apparent low bidder at $2,689,000

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider the 2021-22 budget, a project ordinance for American Rescue Plan Act funds, and several appointments. The consent agenda includes budget amendments, custodial fund approvals, and declaring a surplus county truck.

• Consideration of 2021-22 budget
• Project ordinance for American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Budget amendments: $46,500 for health department controls, $54,900 for Wagram Rec Center HVAC
• GASB 84 custodial funds: $145,000 DSS, $132,200 ROD, $48,000 concealed carry, $1,000 park deposits
• Surplus Parks and Recreation Ford F150 truck (VIN#1FTPF12V97NA59234)

The board approved the $46,065,035 FY 2021-22 budget with a $1.00 tax rate and $9,850,000 in school funding, voting 4-1 with Commissioner BJ Gibson dissenting. The board also approved amended bylaws for the Scotland County Economic Development Corporation, adding two non-elected members, and a project ordinance for American Rescue Plan Act funds. Several appointments were made, including Charles Dean Nichols to the RCC Board of Trustees and Rhonda Cox to the Crime and Drug Committee.

• Approved $46,065,035 FY 2021-22 budget with $1.00 tax rate and $9,850,000 school allocation (4-1)
• Approved amended SCEDC bylaws adding two non-elected members (unanimous)
• Approved project ordinance for American Rescue Plan Act funds (unanimous)
• Reappointed Charles Dean Nichols to Richmond Community College Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Appointed Rhonda Cox to Laurinburg-Scotland County Crime and Drug Committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jay Todd, Christopher Mark Ward, Dale McInnis, and John Alford to Lumber River Workforce Development Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jim Walters to Scotland Memorial Library Board of Directors (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including budget amendments, GASB 84 funds, and surplus of 2007 Ford F-150 (unanimous)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Department of Social Services Board is holding a regular meeting to approve routine items and take action on the FY 22 Energy Programs Outreach Plan, officer positions, and meeting schedule. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no substantive policy or budget decisions listed beyond these administrative items.

• Vote on FY 22 Energy Programs Outreach Plan
• Vote on FY 22 DSS Board officer positions
• Vote on FY 22 DSS Board meeting schedule
• Approval of May 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of administrative report

The Scotland County DSS Board approved the FY 22 Energy Programs Outreach Plan and the FY 22 board meeting schedule, which includes a one-time October date change. The board also accepted the administrative report and entered executive session to discuss personnel matters. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved FY 22 Energy Programs Outreach Plan (unanimous)
• Approved FY 22 DSS Board meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Accepted administrative report for April (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on the 2021-2022 budget and a proposed land use planning ordinance, and may adopt both. The board will also consider a consent agenda including a $320,000 budget amendment between water districts, a sheriff's department request, and policy changes.

• Public hearing and adoption of NCGS 160-D Land Use Planning Ordinance
• 2021-2022 budget presentation and public hearing
• Budget amendment: move $320,000 from Water District 2 to Water District 1
• Sheriff Department request presented by Sheriff Ralph Kersey
• Surplus 2006 Ford F-350 Van (VIN #1FBNE31L06HA03044) from Scots for Youth

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners approved the consent agenda, including a $320,000 water district budget transfer and a $166,345 mobile medical unit purchase funded by COVID-19 grants. The board approved required zoning modifications to comply with NCGS 160D, and approved the 2021-22 fiscal year budget with a general fund of $46,065,035. School board member stipends were increased from $300 to $450 per month and the chair's stipend to $7,100 per year, and the board approved policy updates 6-1. The board also directed the county manager to prepare a 99-cent tax rate budget option and a budget with law enforcement pay raises.

• Approved consent agenda including $320,000 transfer from Water District 2 to Water District 1 (unanimous)
• Approved $166,345 mobile medical unit purchase for Health Department using COVID-19 funds (unanimous)
• Approved required zoning modifications to comply with NCGS 160D (unanimous)
• Approved 2021-22 fiscal year budget with general fund of $46,065,035 (unanimous)
• Approved school board stipend increase: members to $450/month, chair to $7,100/year (unanimous)
• Approved policy committee recommendations 6-1, with Commissioner BJ Gibson voting nay
• Reappointed Commissioner John Alford to Southeastern Community Action Partnership board (unanimous)
• Selected Vice Chair Gholston as voting delegate to NCACC conference, BJ Gibson as alternate (unanimous)

Water Districts Board

The Scotland County Water Districts Board of Directors is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from January 4, 2021, and to receive a financial update and general updates on the water districts. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Approval of the January 4, 2021 minutes
• Financial update of the Water Districts
• Updates on the Water Districts

Board of Commissioners

The board unanimously approved a plan to increase the county's 401k match by 0.5% to 2.5% this year, a three-year salary study costing $17,000 for the first two years and $3,800 for the third, and the consent agenda including a $57,000 audit contract with Roche, Head & Associates. No decision was made on the child advocacy center funding or school board stipend increase, which were deferred to the June meeting.

• Approved 401k match increase to 2.5% (unanimous)
• Approved three-year salary study (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $57,000 audit contract (unanimous)
• Approved JCPC discretionary funds for Scots For Youth van (consent agenda)
• Approved $56,088.24 LIEAP funds (consent agenda)
• Deferred school board stipend decision to June meeting
• No decision on child advocacy center MOE funds

DSS Board

The Scotland County Social Services Board will hold a regular meeting via Google Meet. The agenda includes approving previous minutes and an administrative report, as well as a training session regarding the UNC School of Government Board.

• Approval of April 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Approval of Administrative Report
• UNC School of Government Board Training

The Scotland County DSS Board unanimously accepted the May 2021 administrative report, which noted that Scotland Adult Day Services will close permanently, affecting about six clients. The board also entered executive session for confidential matters and adjourned. No action items were on the agenda.

• Accepted May 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Entered executive session under NC GS 143-318.11 (unanimous)
• Re-entered regular session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

DSS Board

The Scotland County Social Services Board is holding its regular meeting, with options for virtual attendance. The board will vote on the administrative report and a budget update, and will discuss information technology and security planning, as well as continuing virtual meetings. The agenda is largely routine, with no major public hearings or contracts listed.

• Budget update requiring a vote
• Approval of administrative report
• Discussion of IT/security planning
• Discussion of continuing Google Meet virtual meetings

The Scotland County DSS Board approved the FY22 budget as summarized by Director April Snead, including any necessary changes. The board also discussed that $50,000 in CIP funds was reverted to the state, with a possibility of another $50,000 being reverted, and noted that salary is under-budgeted and will run out by the end of May. The board decided to discontinue setting up Google Meet for meetings, citing ample space and low indoor gathering mandates.

• Approved FY22 budget as summarized by Director Snead (unanimous)
• Accepted April 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Accepted March 18, 2021 board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Entered executive session under NC GS 143-318.11 (unanimous)
• Re-entered regular session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a conditional use permit, receive a budget presentation from the school superintendent, and hear reports on child fatality prevention, COVID-19, and other county business. The board will also discuss several items including EMS proclamation, PPO buy-up option, and various community center and tax discussions.

• Public hearing and consideration of a conditional use permit
• Scotland County School budget presentation by Superintendent Takeda LeGrand
• Child Fatality Prevention Team annual report and member appointments
• Budget amendment appropriating $55,000 for Wagram Recreation Center
• COVID-19 update by Health Director Eli Caldwell

The Board denied a conditional use permit for a proposed shooting range on McAllister Road after hearing public testimony from neighbors concerned about noise, safety, and groundwater contamination. The vote was unanimous. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including a $55,000 budget amendment for the Wagram Recreation Center HVAC, and approved the Child Fatality Prevention Team members for 2021-22.

• Denied conditional use permit for shooting range on McAllister Road (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $55,000 for Wagram Recreation Center HVAC (unanimous)
• Approved Child Fatality Prevention Team members for 2021-22 (unanimous)
• Approved request to board of education to halt IE Johnson disposal and form committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Dee Hammond and Sonya Thomas to ABC Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Larry McGill as chair of ABC Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Tony Spaulding and Beacham McDougald to Tourist Development Authority (unanimous)
• Approved opioid litigation memorandum of agreement and resolution (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will review the 2020 fiscal year audit, hear an update on the Child Advocacy Center, and discuss the upcoming budget. The board will also consider a PPO buyup option, clarify planning and zoning board terms, and receive a recreation update.

• Review of 2020 Fiscal Year Audit by Carl Head of Roche, Head Associates, PLLC
• Child Advocacy Center update by DSS Director April Snead
• PPO Buyup discussion
• Budget discussion
• Planning and Zoning Board terms clarification

The Board unanimously approved $55,000 for two 15-ton air conditioning units with ductwork for the Wagram Recreation Center, with possible state reimbursement. They delayed a decision on increasing employee PPO buy-up contributions until May. The Board also approved a schedule for Planning and Zoning Board terms and discussed the 2020 audit, a potential child advocacy center, and the 2021-22 budget.

• Approved $55,000 for Wagram Recreation Center air conditioning (unanimous)
• Delayed PPO buy-up contribution increase decision until May
• Approved Planning and Zoning Board term schedule (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Scotland County Board of Health is meeting to discuss and approve administrative items, including new positions, position reclassifications, and additional COVID-19 funding. They will also review the Child Fatality Team annual report and approve new HIV labs. The agenda includes routine reports and public comment.

• Review and approval of new positions: Administrative Assistant II, Grant Writer, Computing Support Technician I
• Discussion of position reclassifications and possible restructuring of Public Health Nurse III to Public Health Nurse II
• Approval of new HIV labs
• Additional funding: COVID-19 Vaccination Program $130,852, Contact Tracing $41,156, Enhancing Detection $278,901
• Blanket authority to implement Medicaid reimbursement increases for vaccines

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and consider an incentive package for Project Twin Rivers, a potential economic development project. They will also consider a conditional use permit and receive updates on personnel, COVID-19, and other county matters.

• Public hearing and consideration of incentive package for Project Twin Rivers
• Public hearing and consideration of conditional use permit
• Approval of February tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Appointments to ABC Board, Board of Equalization and Review, Planning and Zoning Board, and other committees
• Update on COVID-19 and foreclosed properties

The Board unanimously approved a One NC grant and a local tax grant incentive package for American Wood Fibers, Inc., which plans to create or retain 51 jobs and invest $19 million in the county. The Board also approved a conditional use permit for a catering business, surplus foreclosed properties for auction, and several board appointments.

• Approved the consent agenda, including March meeting minutes, February tax refunds/releases/discoveries, and the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council budget.
• Approved the One NC grant for American Wood Fibers, Inc. and authorized the chair to execute documents.
• Approved the local tax grant incentive package for American Wood Fibers, Inc. and authorized the chair to execute documents.
• Granted a conditional use permit for a catering business on land owned by Valerie Gay.
• Approved surplus of about 25 foreclosed properties for public auction.
• Approved reappointments to the Planning and Zoning Board, replacing Walter Currie and Daniel Dockery.
• Approved appointment of Commissioner BJ Gibson to the Southeastern Economic Development Commission.
• Approved reclassification of a Payroll Technician 4 position to an Accountant I position.

DSS Board

The Scotland County Social Services Board approved the DSS Agency Fraud Plan, which raises the prosecution threshold to $10,000, and authorized Director April Snead to finalize the combined FY22 DSS/SCATS budget (projected at $2.549 million) with authority to make changes. The board also accepted the March administrative report, which detailed challenges including high foster care caseloads (17 per worker vs. recommended 12 for therapeutic placements), a 50% court continuance rate, and preparations for Medicaid Managed Care starting July 1, 2021. No public comments were made, and the board entered executive session before adjourning.

• Approved the DSS Agency Fraud Plan, raising prosecution threshold to $10,000 and allowing payment plans for amounts under that.
• Authorized Director Snead to continue working on the FY22 budget and make necessary changes, providing a copy to the board.
• Accepted the March 2021 administrative report as presented.
• Accepted the February 18, 2021 board meeting minutes.
• Accepted the meeting agenda.
• Entered executive session under NC General Statute 143-318.11 to discuss confidential information.
• Re-entered regular session and adjourned the meeting.

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting, including a public forum, consent agenda, and reports. Key items include reviewing the 2020 election, approving a Medicaid cost settlement of $33,974, and surplusing county equipment. The board will also consider moving the April meeting, discuss the Laurel Hill Community Center, and make board appointments.

• Approve January tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Approve surplus and sale of Chief Deputy Eddie Smith's service weapon
• Approve surplusing of aerator used by public buildings
• Approve Medicaid cost settlement of $33,974 (FY 2017)
• Review of 2020 election by Board of Elections

The Board unanimously approved the Board of Elections plan to distribute remaining CARES Act and supplemental funds: $125 bonuses to each of 60 poll workers, $2,000 bonuses to elections staff, and a $1,183.77 refund to the County for hazard pay previously given to staff. The Board also unanimously approved the consent agenda, the 2021-2022 Community Child Protection Team member list with the addition of Eli Caldwell, moving the April 2021 meeting to the Edwin Morgan Center, and appointing Commissioner Ivey to the Scotland County ABC Board.

• Approved the consent agenda, including February minutes, tax releases/refunds/discoveries, surplus of chief deputy's service weapon, surplus of an aerator, and $33,974 in new Medicaid Cost Settlement funding.
• Approved $125 bonus for each of 60 poll workers, $2,000 bonus for elections staff, and $1,183.77 refund to the County for hazard pay, funded from leftover CARES and supplemental funds.
• Approved the 2021-2022 Community Child Protection Team member list with the addition of Eli Caldwell, Health Director.
• Approved moving the April 2021 regular meeting to the Edwin Morgan Center due to the ongoing vaccination clinic.
• Approved the appointment of Commissioner Ivey to the Scotland County ABC Board.

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including the transfer of the water system to the City of Laurinburg, financial updates, and budgetary goals. They will also review recruitment and selection policies, health insurance options, and strategic goals, including a new land use plan. The agenda includes both discussion items and updates, with no formal public hearings listed.

• Transfer of water system to City of Laurinburg
• Financial update and budgetary goals
• Health insurance buy-up option
• Recruitment and selection/promotion policies
• New Land Use Plan (NCGS 160d) update

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to increase the ABC Board from 3 to 5 members, with at least one appointment being a sitting commissioner. They also approved a letter of support for changing Laurinburg's ABC laws, hired a supervisor and foster care social worker for DSS, and raised the commissioner stipend by $60 per month (4-2).

• Approved expanding ABC Board from 3 to 5 members, with at least one commissioner (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for legislative change to Laurinburg ABC laws (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a supervisor and one foster care social worker for DSS (unanimous)
• Approved raising commissioner stipend by $60/month starting July 1 (4-2)
• Consensus to have County Manager discuss water system transfer with legislators
• Held off on health insurance buy-up decision

DSS Board

The Scotland County Social Services Board is holding its regular monthly meeting, with options for virtual attendance. The board will vote on appointing a CCPT DSS Board representative and will receive updates on children's services, IT/security planning, and agency turnover.

• Vote on CCPT DSS Board representative
• Children Services Update
• Information Technology/Security Planning
• Agency Turnover Report
• Approval of minutes and administrative report

The Scotland County DSS Board accepted the February 2021 administrative report, which detailed budget concerns including a projected $75,000 deficit in foster care and salary line items, and a 40% turnover rate. Dorothy Tyson was unanimously voted as the new Community Child Protection Team (CCPT) Board Representative for FY 22. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was otherwise informational.

• Accepted February 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Approved January 21, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with removal of unit presentation (unanimous)
• Voted Dorothy Tyson as CCPT Board Representative for FY 22 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Scotland County Board of Health will hold its regular monthly meeting, covering routine administrative reports and public comment. The only new business item is a proposal to accept new funding of $33,974 from a Medicaid cost settlement for fiscal year 2017.

• New funding: Medicaid Cost Settlement - $33,974.00 (FY17)
• Approval of January 19, 2021 minutes
• Fiscal update and monthly activity summary
• Public comment period

The Scotland County Board of Health approved a Medicaid Cost Settlement of $33,974 for FY17 as presented. The board also approved the agenda and the January 19, 2021 minutes without changes. Financial reports showed spending and revenue at 48.3% of budget, 9.7% under target, partly due to COVID-19 vaccination clinic operations. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Medicaid Cost Settlement of $33,974 (FY17)
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved January 19, 2021 minutes as presented

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a public hearing and action on an economic development project, approve consent agenda items including tax refunds and COVID-19 funding, and discuss moving the March meeting location. They will also receive a COVID-19 update and hold a closed session on pending litigation.

• Public hearing and action on Economic Development-Project House 1
• Approve COVID-19 Administration Fee for Moderna doses at $29 each
• Approve additional COVID-19 Vaccination Program funding of $29,184
• Approve CARES Act funds for Board of Elections: $68,895 plus $15,700 supplemental
• Closed session to consult attorney on Owens vs Scotland County and McDougald vs Kersey et al.

The minutes contain a report from the Tax Collector detailing releases, refunds, and discoveries for December 2020, with grand totals listed. No formal decisions or votes are recorded in the provided text; the document appears to be a consent agenda item for the Board of Commissioners.

• Received tax releases under $100 totaling $59.02
• Received tax releases over $100 totaling $16,927.67
• Received refunds over $100 totaling $1,508.42
• Received discoveries totaling $2,448.38

DSS Board

The Scotland County Social Services Board is holding its regular monthly meeting, with options for virtual attendance. The board will vote on the agenda, minutes from the December 16, 2020 meeting, and the administrative report, and will hear a unit presentation on quality assurance. Strategic agenda items include updates on children's services and information technology/security planning, followed by an executive session.

• Approval of agenda for January 21, 2021 meeting
• Approval of minutes from December 16, 2020 meeting
• Unit presentation on Quality Assurance
• Approval of administrative report
• Strategic agenda: Children Services Update and IT/Security Planning

The Scotland County DSS Board approved the January 2021 administrative report, which detailed a significant budget shortfall in salary funding, a declined Walmart card, and ongoing child welfare concerns including a child fatality. The board discussed but took no formal action on these issues, supporting the director's plan to contract IT services.

• Approved January 2021 administrative report (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Board expressed support for contracting IT position (no formal vote)

Board of Health

The Scotland County Board of Health will meet to adopt the agenda, approve minutes, and consider new business, including setting a $29 fee for COVID-19 vaccine administration and accepting $29,184 in additional funding for the vaccination program. Administrative reports are deferred to February. The meeting includes public comment and a closed session.

• COVID-19 vaccine administration fee: $29.00 per dose (Moderna 1st and 2nd doses)
• Additional funding for COVID-19 Vaccination Program: $29,184
• Approval of December 15, 2020 minutes
• Public comment period
• Closed session per NC § 143-318.11(a)(6)

Board of Commissioners

The Scotland County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda, public forum, and several discussion items. Key items include considering a mass gathering ordinance, receiving an update on COVID-19, and hearing from the new superintendent of schools. The board will also make appointments to boards and committees.

• Approve November tax refunds, releases, and discoveries
• Approve additional Reentry funds
• Approve Health Department requests: FY18 Medicaid settlement $43,977; Immunization $11,639
• Consider Mass Gathering Ordinance
• Discuss Laurel Hill Community Center