Ashe County public meetings in 2021
32 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
County Commission
The County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an Industrial Development Fund match. The meeting also includes discussions on animal control ordinance amendments and a library interlocal agreement.
- Public hearing for Industrial Development Fund Match
- Safe Haven Baby Box Agreement presentation
- Animal Control Ordinance Amendments discussion
- Appalachian Regional Library Interlocal Agreement review
- Landfill Equipment Request update
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved a Right to Life resolution by a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Olive dissenting. The board also approved a Safe Haven Baby Box agreement, an Industrial Development Fund grant application, and several other routine items. A motion to provide COVID-19 premium pay bonuses to eight recent retirees using county funds was approved unanimously.
- Adopted Right to Life resolution (4-1)
- Approved Safe Haven Baby Box agreement (5-0)
- Approved resolution to apply for NC Industrial Development Fund Utility Account Financing Grant (5-0)
- Approved monthly tax report for November 2021 (5-0)
- Authorized diagnostic evaluation and quotes for landfill pan machine refurbishment (5-0)
- Approved Appalachian Regional Library Interlocal Agreement (5-0)
- Directed formation of committee to review animal control ordinance amendments (5-0)
- Appropriated $10,460 from contingency fund for COVID-19 premium pay bonuses for eight retirees (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will elect a new Chairman and Vice Chairman. The agenda includes presentations regarding a budget amendment, a landfill equipment request, and the Paddy Mountain Agreement. Several board appointments are also scheduled for consideration.
- Budget Amendment presentation
- Landfill Equipment Request
- Paddy Mountain Agreement presentation
- Vaya Health Regional Board appointments
- Airport Advisory Board reappointments
The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a proclamation and agreement for the Blue Ridge Conservancy's Paddy Mountain land purchase, along with a $100,000 budget amendment funded by occupancy tax revenues. The board also approved a rent-to-own agreement for a landfill truck, reappointed several board members, and approved a resolution on opioid settlement proceeds.
- Approved rent-to-own for landfill demo truck until Feb 7, 2022 (5-0)
- Approved Round Up for Paddy Mountain Month proclamation (5-0)
- Approved Paddy Mountain agreement with minor typo corrections (5-0)
- Approved $100,000 budget amendment for Paddy Mountain, funded by occupancy tax (5-0)
- Appointed Todd McNeill and Adam Stumb to Vaya Health Regional Board (5-0)
- Reappointed Jeff Badger, Thomas Bregger, Joey Parsons to Airport Advisory Board (5-0)
- Reappointed Dr. Doug Butler to Regional Library Board (5-0)
- Approved opioid settlement agreement resolution (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (12 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review monthly departmental updates and tax reports. The meeting includes discussions on several budget amendments and a proposed property acquisition. Commissioners will also consider board reappointments and a road petition.
- Budget amendments for Emergency Management, Planning, and the County Manager
- Industrial Development Fund Grant Resolution
- Property acquisition proposal by County Manager Adam Stumb
- West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board reappointments
- Road petition for Bird's Eye View Lane
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a contract to purchase a nearly 150-acre tract adjoining Ashe Park, which will more than triple the park's size and allow for future development of trails, picnic areas, and parking. The board also approved several budget amendments, including a $20,500 Homeland Security grant for a morgue trailer and a $4,450 planning department adjustment for code enforcement officer training. Other actions included approving a road petition for Bird's Eye View Lane, reappointing Zeb Gambill to the West Jefferson Planning Board, and approving the reinstatement of a sheriff's employee's sick leave.
- Approved contract to purchase ~150-acre tract adjoining Ashe Park (5-0)
- Approved $20,500 Emergency Management budget amendment for morgue trailer (5-0)
- Approved $4,450 Planning budget amendment for code enforcement officer training (5-0)
- Approved road petition to add Bird's Eye View Lane to state-maintained system (5-0)
- Reappointed Zeb Gambill to West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board (5-0)
- Reappointed Chairman McNeill to High Country RPO RTAC (4-0, McNeill abstained)
- Approved reinstatement of sheriff's employee's sick leave (5-0)
- Approved Industrial Development Fund Grant Resolution (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (13 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will hear presentations regarding American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from Ashe Memorial Hospital and SkyLine Strategic. The County Manager will also present a premium pay policy, an amended ARP quarterly budget, and a request to purchase dental clinic property.
- Ashe Memorial Hospital ARP Request presentation
- SkyLine Strategic ARP Request presentation
- Premium Pay Policy presentation
- Amended American Rescue Plan (ARP) Quarterly Budget presentation
- Request to Purchase Dental Clinic Property
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an amended American Rescue Plan (ARP) quarterly budget that includes new allocations for Ashe Memorial Hospital and premium pay bonuses for county employees. The board also approved a premium pay policy and heard requests from Ashe Memorial Hospital and SkyLine for ARP funds, with the SkyLine request deferred for further discussion with town managers. All other actions were routine approvals of minutes, agenda, and an executive session with no action taken.
- Approved amended ARP quarterly budget including hospital and premium pay allocations (5-0)
- Approved premium pay policy for county employees (5-0)
- Approved October 4, 2021 special meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved October 18, 2021 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Approved October 18, 2021 executive session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
- Entered executive session to discuss property acquisition; no action taken (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 11:05 a.m. (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will receive monthly updates from the DSS and Tax departments. Presentations include progress on the Land Use Plan development and a premium pay policy. The board will also consider reappointments to the West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board.
- Ashe County Arts Council/Civic Center Merger Update
- Land Use Plan Development Update
- Premium Pay Policy presentation
- West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board reappointments
- Executive session regarding opioid litigation
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Assignment of Assumption of Lease transferring the County-owned Civic Center property to the Ashe County Arts Council, contingent on renegotiating the lease after the merger. The board also approved the September tax report, reappointed ETJ planning board members, appointed a jury commissioner, and discussed a premium pay policy for employees but did not vote on it.
- Approved Assignment of Assumption of Lease for Civic Center to Arts Council, contingent on lease renegotiation (5-0)
- Approved September 2021 monthly tax report (5-0)
- Reappointed James Ellis and Michael Vannoy to West Jefferson ETJ Planning Board (5-0)
- Appointed David Boone as Jury Commissioner for two-year term (5-0)
- Approved October 4, 2021 regular and executive session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda with addition of jury commission appointment (5-0)
- Entered executive session for opioid litigation legal issues, no action taken (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The October 4, 2021, special meeting agenda for the Ashe County Commission consists of procedural steps. The business session does not list specific topics for discussion or decisions.
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners discussed potential changes to Environmental Services fees and operations, focusing on whether to continue the solid waste fee or shift to a tax levy system. The Board expressed consensus in support of the levy system, and staff will begin drafting amendments to the solid waste ordinance. No formal vote was taken; the meeting was a discussion session.
- Consensus to support shifting from solid waste fee to tax levy system
- Staff to begin work on solid waste ordinance amendments
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The commission will review a proposal for jail camera financing and receive an update on the American Rescue Plan. Other presentations include the DSS/Health Department building update and a site easement for Blue Ridge Energy on Highway 163.
- Approval of Jail Camera Financing Proposal
- American Rescue Plan (ARP) Update
- Blue Ridge Energy Hwy. 163 Site Easement presentation
- Industrial Park Grant Resolution
- DSS/Health Department Building Update
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution accepting a $300,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant for the Ashe County Industrial Park. The board also approved the fourth quarter 2021 American Rescue Plan budget, a jail camera financing proposal from First National Bank, and an easement from Blue Ridge Energy. All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Approved $300K ARC grant for industrial park (5-0)
- Approved Q4 2021 ARP budget (5-0)
- Approved jail camera financing from First National Bank (5-0)
- Approved Blue Ridge Energy easement for Hwy. 163 site (5-0)
- Approved proclamation honoring Gary Poe (5-0)
- Approved minutes from Sept. 20 regular, executive, and ARP work sessions (5-0)
- Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)
- Entered executive session for opioid litigation and property acquisition; no action taken
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The meeting includes a work session regarding the ARP budget. No other specific business items are listed on the agenda.
- ARP Budget Work Session
The Ashe County Commission held a work session to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act fund allocations but made no final decisions. County Manager Adam Stumb presented a spreadsheet of funding requests and recommendations, including for Ashe Memorial Hospital staff retention bonuses, rescue squads, volunteer fire departments, Ashe County Schools, Ashe Food Pantry, AppHealthCare, essential worker bonuses, DSS housing and shelter proposals, and agriculture aid. The Board provided guidance and asked Stumb to refine the budget for a future meeting. The only formal action was unanimous adjournment.
- Held ARP budget work session; no allocations approved
- Discussed hospital staff retention bonuses for RNs, CNAs, lab staff, and Community Paramedic program
- Discussed rescue squad and volunteer fire department requests; noted limited COVID-19 eligibility
- Discussed Ashe County Schools water/sewer project costs; HVAC eligibility unclear
- Discussed Ashe Food Pantry freezer and refrigerated box truck needs
- Discussed AppHealthCare infrastructure improvements to county-owned building
- Discussed essential worker bonuses; preferred flat rate based on full/part-time status
- Adjourned meeting unanimously at 3:29 p.m.
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review departmental presentations regarding the Comprehensive Transportation Plan and jail camera systems. The agenda also includes discussions on tax settlements, budget amendments for DSS, and a request to write off 2011 delinquent tax bills.
- Request to authorize write-off of 2011 delinquent tax bills
- Review of VAYA Grant and Budget Amendment
- Home and Community Care Block Grant budget approval and revision
- Discussion regarding a jail camera system
- Rural Operating Assistance Program application review
The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved two DSS budget amendments (VAYA grant and LINKs revenues), the FY20/21 tax settlement, FY21/22 tax charge, monthly tax report, write-off of 2011 delinquent taxes, a ROAP application, an emergency preparedness resolution, hiring an additional Register of Deeds staff member, and the 2022 holiday schedule. The board also approved a motion to video, archive, or livestream meetings held outside the usual meeting room. No action was taken in executive session.
- Approved DSS budget amendment increasing appropriation to $9,257,416 with VAYA grant (5-0)
- Approved DSS budget amendment increasing appropriation to $9,298,896 with LINKs revenues (5-0)
- Approved FY20/21 tax settlement and FY21/22 tax charge (5-0)
- Approved write-off of 2011 delinquent tax bills (5-0)
- Approved Rural Operating Assistance Program application (5-0)
- Approved Emergency Preparedness Resolution (5-0)
- Approved hiring additional Register of Deeds staff member for training (5-0)
- Approved motion to video, archive, or livestream off-site meetings (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (17 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will review a budget amendment for the Sheriff's Office and hold a discussion regarding an ambulance service contract. Other agenda items include updates on the Ashe Industrial Park and landfill airspace analysis.
- Sheriff's Office budget amendment presentation
- Ambulance service contract discussion
- Ashe Industrial Park update
- Landfill airspace analysis discussion
- Keep Ashe Beautiful funding request
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $14,884 budget amendment for the Sheriff's Office, funded from unappropriated insurance proceeds, increasing the Law Enforcement appropriation to $3,344,025. The board also heard presentations on the upcoming EMS contract expiration (June 30, 2024), with options to renegotiate, issue an RFP, or operate a county service, and discussed the need for a fourth ambulance unit. All other agenda items, including minutes, appointments, and a 9/11 proclamation, were approved unanimously.
- Approved $14,884 budget amendment for Sheriff's Office (5-0)
- Approved August 2, 2021 Regular Session Minutes (5-0)
- Approved August 3, 2021 Work Session Minutes (5-0)
- Approved August 3, 2021 Executive Session Minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
- Approved July 2021 monthly tax report (5-0)
- Reappointed 5 members to Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (5-0)
- Adopted Proclamation Honoring 20th Anniversary of 9/11 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission scheduled a special meeting for August 25, 2021. The agenda consists only of procedural items and a general discussion period without specific topics listed.
- No specific business items or motions were listed on the agenda.
The Ashe County Commission held a special meeting to discuss COVID-19 protocols. The Board decided to request, but not require, that the public wear masks in County buildings, while upholding the requirement for County employees to wear masks in shared spaces. The Board heard COVID-19 data from AppHealthCare and local officials, and noted that masks are required in the Agricultural Services Building due to a federal requirement.
- Requested (not required) that the public wear masks in County buildings
- Upheld the requirement for County employees to wear masks in shared spaces
- Noted DSS requires clients to wear masks in office spaces, with services available remotely
- Noted Parks & Recreation Advisory Board recommended masks for indoor fall sports leagues except players on court
- Noted masks are required in the Agricultural Services Building due to federal requirement
- Adjourned the meeting at 11:04 a.m. with unanimous approval
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The County Commission will hold a work session and business session. The agenda includes an executive session regarding property acquisition and personnel issues.
- Property acquisition discussions
- Personnel issues discussions
The Ashe County Commission held a work session to discuss potential changes to the solid waste fee and a proposed sticker system for convenience site use. No formal decisions were made; the board heard presentations from county staff and agreed to gather more data for future discussion. The board also entered executive session for property and personnel matters, taking no action.
- Entered executive session for property acquisition and personnel issues (unanimous, 4-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 2:08 p.m. (unanimous, 4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold public hearings regarding new middle school project financing and amendments to the Chapter 154 RV Parks Ordinance. The agenda also includes updates on CARES Act funding and middle school access. Additionally, the commission will consider reappointments to the Local Library Board and Parks & Recreation Advisory Board.
- Public hearing: New Middle School Project Financing
- Public hearing: Chapter 154 RV Parks Ordinance Amendments
- CARES Act update from County Manager Adam Stumb
- Local Library Board reappointments
- Parks & Recreation Advisory Board reappointments
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution authorizing an installment financing contract for the new middle school project after a public hearing with no comments. The board also sent proposed RV parks ordinance amendments back to the Planning Board for further revisions, approved a facility use request for the 2022 Ashe Bash concert, and adopted a revised facility use agreement with an amended weapons rule. Additionally, the board reappointed members to the library and parks advisory boards.
- Approved resolution for new middle school project installment financing (5-0)
- Sent Chapter 154 RV Parks Ordinance amendments back to Planning Board for revisions (5-0)
- Approved 2022 Ashe Bash facility use request for July 8, 2022 (5-0)
- Approved revised facility use agreement as amended, prohibiting weapons except for sworn NC law enforcement (5-0)
- Reappointed Dr. Doug Butler to Ashe County Library Board (5-0)
- Reappointed Michael Lea to Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (5-0)
- Approved July 19, 2021 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will review a resolution for new middle school financing and a public hearing notice. The agenda also includes monthly reports from the DSS Director and Tax Administrator, as well as an appointment to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council.
- New Middle School Financing Authorization Resolution & Public Hearing Notice
- DSS Monthly Departmental Update & Energy Programs Outreach Plan Approval
- Request for Reinstatement of Employee's Sick Leave
- Monthly Tax Report
- Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) Appointment
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution authorizing financing for the new middle school and set a public hearing for August 2, 2021. They also approved the DSS Energy Programs Outreach Plan, reinstated 67.6 hours of sick leave for Kim Loepp, accepted the monthly tax report, and appointed Michelle Raymond to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council. All votes were unanimous, with Chairperson McNeill excused.
- Approved resolution authorizing new middle school financing and public hearing notice
- Approved DSS Energy Programs Outreach Plan for LIEAP and CIP publicity
- Approved reinstatement of 67.6 hours of sick leave for Kim Loepp
- Approved June 2021 monthly tax report
- Appointed Michelle Raymond as DSS Designee to JCPC for two-year term
- Approved minutes of July 6, 2021 regular and executive sessions
- Adopted agenda as presented
- Adjourned at 9:38 a.m.
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Building Inspections Ordinance. The meeting also includes a special presentation from the Ashe County Frescoes Foundation and an executive session concerning personnel issues.
- Public Hearing: Building Inspections Ordinance Amendment
- Special Presentation: Ashe County Frescoes Foundation
- Executive Session regarding personnel issues
The Ashe County Commission approved a $12,000 allocation for the Town of Lansing to purchase a commercial mower, following a request for maintenance assistance. The board also adopted an amendment to the Building Inspections Ordinance to reference the current fee schedule instead of including the full schedule. All other actions were routine approvals of prior meeting minutes and the agenda.
- Approved $12,000 for Town of Lansing commercial mower (5-0)
- Adopted Building Inspections Ordinance amendment to reference fee schedule (5-0)
- Approved June 7, 2021 Work Session Minutes (4-0, Powers excused)
- Approved June 8, 2021 Work Session Minutes (4-0, Powers excused)
- Approved June 9, 2021 Work Session Minutes (4-0, Powers excused)
- Approved June 10, 2021 Work Session Minutes (4-0, Powers excused)
- Approved June 21, 2021 Regular Session Minutes (4-0, Powers excused)
- Adopted agenda with addition of Lansing discussion (4-0, Powers excused)
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will hold public hearings regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2021-2022 County and Economic Development budgets. The meeting also includes discussions on budget amendments, ordinance changes, and tax revenue allocations.
- Public hearing for the FY 2021-2022 County Budget
- Resolution authorizing an application for an Industrial Park Financing Agreement
- Amendments to the Planning Department Fee Schedule
- Allocation of unappropriated FY20-21 occupancy tax revenues
- American Rescue Plan Grant Project Ordinance
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the FY2021-2022 county budget of $60,965,862, keeping the ad valorem tax rate at 51 cents per $100 of assessed value and all fire tax rates unchanged. The board also approved the FY2021-2022 Economic Development Budget, a resolution authorizing a financing application for the Ashe County Industrial Park (up to $1.36 million), and several other items including budget amendments, a fire foam disposal request, and an allocation of occupancy tax revenues for sheriff's office equipment and a New River public access area.
- Adopted FY2021-2022 county budget of $60,965,862 with tax rate at .51 cents per $100 and fire tax rates unchanged
- Adopted FY2021-2022 Economic Development Budget as presented
- Approved resolution authorizing filing of financing application for Ashe County Industrial Park (up to $1.36 million)
- Approved budget amendments including increases for Elections, Economic Development, Cultural Arts, and new special revenue funds
- Approved $24,172.50 for disposal of fire foam from Emergency Management budget
- Approved allocation of $120,000 for sheriff's office protective shields/helmets and $40,000 for New River public access area
- Approved American Rescue Plan grant project ordinance (received $2,641,932 of total allocation)
- Approved Solid Waste Ordinance amendments including stricter fee reductions and 50% discount for elderly/disabled
🗳️ How they voted (16 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Board held a budget work session and agreed on a proposed 6.7-cent tax increase, bringing the total rate to 51 cents, to fund the new middle school project and other costs. They approved several personnel actions, including a $5,000 salary increase for the County Manager and a grade increase for all sworn law enforcement employees except the Sheriff and Chief Deputy. The Board also reallocated funds, including $4,000 from Economic Development to Human Services for the Farmers Market and $7,000 to contingency for Industrial Park promotion. No final budget was adopted; the tax rate and budget remain proposals pending final approval.
- Agreed to proposed 6.7-cent tax increase, total rate 51 cents
- Increased County Manager salary by $5,000 for master's degree completion
- Reclassified Clerk to Board to Grade 66 upon certification completion
- Added one grade increase to all sworn law enforcement employees except Sheriff and Chief Deputy
- Reclassified Patty Gambill to Grade 71
- Reduced Economic Development Computer Support by $4,000, added to Human Services for Farmers Market
- Removed $7,000 from Advertising & Marketing to contingency for Industrial Park promotion
- Added $50,000 to Environmental Services Capital Outlay for compactor motor replacement
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will discuss the new middle school project, including estimates and a financing schedule. The meeting also includes presentations on building inspection fee amendments and an interlocal agreement for Jefferson municipal tax collection.
- New middle school project discussion and financing schedule
- Proposed building inspections fee schedule amendments
- Interlocal agreement to collect Jefferson municipal taxes
- Review of county property leases due for renewal
- Discussion regarding county facility grounds use policy
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved committing $61,361,823 to fund a new middle school, with a $15 million state grant applied to the cost. The board also approved an interlocal agreement for the county to collect Jefferson municipal taxes, an amended building inspections fee schedule, a community concert at the government complex, and several county property lease renewals. All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Approved $61,361,823 funding commitment for new middle school (5-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement to collect Jefferson municipal taxes (5-0)
- Approved amended building inspections fee schedule (5-0)
- Approved community concert at government complex on July 9, 2021 (5-0)
- Approved county property lease renewals including new tenant Appalachian Senior Programs (5-0)
- Approved minutes of May 11 and May 17 meetings (5-0)
- Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
- Appointed Chairman McNeill as voting delegate to NCACC conference (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This special meeting consists of a tour of American Emergency Vehicles with the North Carolina Labor Commissioner. No other business items or decisions are listed on this agenda.
- Tour of American Emergency Vehicles with NC Labor Commissioner
The Ashe County Commission held a special meeting to tour the American Emergency Vehicles (AEV) facility alongside NC Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson. No formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted of a facility tour and discussion of AEV's operations, including its status as the county's largest employer and current challenges with microchip supplies and hiring. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.
- Adjourned the special meeting unanimously (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review the upcoming fiscal year budget and discuss updates regarding solid waste ordinances and tire disposal. The meeting also includes a presentation on the FY 2020-2021 audit contract approval.
- Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budget presentation
- Approval of Fiscal Year 2020-2021 audit contract
- Discussion regarding solid waste ordinance and tire disposal
- Monthly tax report and budget amendments
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution accepting 2021 American Rescue Plan Act funds, along with several budget amendments for DSS, Elections, Law Enforcement, and other departments. They also approved the FY20-21 audit contract, scheduled the FY21-22 budget public hearing, and directed staff to draft a resolution urging the governor to decline federal pandemic unemployment benefits.
- Adopted resolution authorizing acceptance of 2021 American Rescue Plan Act funds (5-0)
- Approved DSS budget amendment increasing appropriation to $8,737,314 (5-0)
- Approved multiple budget amendments for Elections, Law Enforcement, Medical Examiner, Debt Service, Economic Development, Cultural Arts, Legal, Register of Deeds, and CDBG funds (5-0)
- Approved FY20-21 audit contract at $46,000 plus $1,500 for annual financial report (5-0)
- Scheduled FY21-22 budget public hearing for June 21, 2021 and work sessions June 7-10 (5-0)
- Approved motion to draft resolution encouraging governor to decline federal pandemic unemployment benefits (4-0, Jordan excused)
- Approved May 3, 2021 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda with three additions (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This agenda contains only procedural boilerplate for a special joint meeting. No specific business topics or discussion items are listed in the document.
The Ashe County Commission and Board of Education held a joint special meeting to discuss the new middle school project. The Board of Education unanimously approved Change Order 3 for site erosion, sediment control, and rough grading, and the County Commission unanimously approved appropriating $1,096,800 to fund it. Superintendent Dr. Eisa Cox noted that a price guarantee from the construction manager was expected the next day, with a ceremonial groundbreaking planned for early August.
- Approved $1,096,800 appropriation for Change Order 3 (unanimous)
- Board of Education approved Change Order 3 for site erosion and grading (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The meeting includes presentations on the CARES Act proposed budget and the Southmountain Children's Advocacy Center lease. Commissioners will also receive updates regarding the Ashe Industrial Park development and real estate market trends. The agenda also covers property addressing and neighborhood revitalization program policies.
- Approval of Golden Leaf Grant for Ashe Industrial Park development
- CARES Act proposed budget and committee membership presentation
- Southmountain Children's Advocacy Center lease presentation
- Community Development Block Grant Neighborhood Revitalization Program policies
- Real estate market update
The Ashe County Commission approved a one-year lease for Southmountain Children's Advocacy Center at the county-owned log cabin on Highway 163 for $1 per year, effective May 4, 2021. The board also approved the Generations Ashe CARES Act budget of $68,736, a $500,000 Golden Leaf Foundation grant for the Ashe Industrial Park, and two CDBG-NRP policies for housing repairs. Road names were set for the Courthouse complex (Law Enforcement Drive, Fallen Heroes Drive) and Family Central (Family Central Drive, Ball Field Way). All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Approved Southmountain Children's Advocacy Center lease for $1/year (5-0)
- Approved Generations Ashe CARES Act budget of $68,736 (5-0)
- Approved Home and Community Care Block Grant Planning Committee membership (5-0)
- Accepted $500,000 Golden Leaf Foundation grant for Ashe Industrial Park (5-0)
- Adopted CDBG-NRP policies for $750,000 housing repair program (5-0)
- Named Courthouse roads Law Enforcement Drive and Fallen Heroes Drive (5-0)
- Named Family Central roads Family Central Drive and Ball Field Way (5-0)
- Approved April 19, 2021 minutes and adopted agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will hear presentations regarding the Todd Island Park Restoration Project and a community paramedic program request. The agenda also includes discussions on solid waste fees and a landfill fee waiver for demolishing the former Jefferson Police Department building.
- Todd Island Park Restoration Project presentation
- Ashe County Community Paramedic Program Request
- Landfill Fees Waiver Request for demolition of Former Police Department Building
- DSS Budget Amendments
- Solid Waste Fee Discussion
The Ashe County Commission approved two DSS budget amendments, a landfill fee waiver for the former Jefferson police department demolition, an amended Frontier gas line easement, and reappointed Kristin Neubauer to the workforce board. Presentations on the Todd Island Park project and Community Paramedic Program were heard but no funding decisions were made.
- Approved DSS budget amendment adding $5,000 from state CIP funds (5-0)
- Approved DSS budget amendment adding $11,136 from insurance proceeds (5-0)
- Approved landfill disposal fee waiver for former Jefferson police department demolition (5-0)
- Approved amended Frontier Natural Gas line easement (5-0)
- Reappointed Kristin Neubauer to High Country Workforce Development Board (5-0)
- Approved minutes from March 31 and April 5 meetings (5-0)
- Adopted meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review presentations on airport expansion contracts and ordinance amendments. The agenda also includes discussions regarding property addressing, environmental health inspections, and a neighborhood revitalization grant.
- AVCON, INC. contract for airport taxiway and apron expansion
- CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Grant acceptance
- Revised Ordinance Chapter 91 Amendments
- Family Central Frontier Gas Line Easement
- Reappointment of Tax Administrator
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved a $3,113,776.50 contract with James R. Vannoy & Sons Construction for the airport partial parallel taxiway and apron expansion project, waiving bid irregularities. The board also accepted a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant for neighborhood revitalization and approved an administrative contract for the High Country Council of Governments. Other actions included approving amendments to Ordinance Chapter 91, adopting three April awareness proclamations, and reappointing Chris Lambert as Tax Administrator. The board deferred decisions on street naming and a gas line easement to future meetings.
- Approved the March 15, 2021 regular session minutes as written
- Adopted the meeting agenda as presented
- Adopted proclamations declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and April 10-16 as the Week of the Young Child
- Approved amendments to Ordinance Chapter 91, including changes to section 91.116
- Accepted a $750,000 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Grant and approved the administrative contract with the High Country Council of Governments
- Awarded the airport taxiway and apron expansion contract to James R. Vannoy & Sons Construction for $3,113,776.50, waiving all bid irregularities
- Reappointed Chris Lambert as Tax Administrator for a four-year term
- Adjourned the meeting at 11:11 a.m.
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
County Commission
This special meeting is dedicated to a site visit at Family Central. The agenda contains no other business items or proposed actions.
- Site visit to Family Central
The Ashe County Commission held a special meeting to tour the Family Central facility. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting consisted of facility tours and informational updates from staff on recreation programs, the commercial kitchen, and a proposed natural gas line easement. The meeting adjourned with unanimous approval of the motion to adjourn.
- Adjourned meeting at 3:59 p.m. (unanimous)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review departmental updates from DSS and the tax office. The agenda includes discussions on solid waste fees, property addressing, and proposed Chapter 91 ordinance updates. Commissioners will also consider a contractor for the Hwy. 163 Convenience Center Site Construction.
- Contractor approval for Hwy. 163 Convenience Center Site Construction
- Discussion of solid waste fee
- Proposed Ordinance Chapter 91 text updates
- Ashe County Public Library renovation project update
- DSS monthly departmental update and budget amendment
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved the lowest bid from PADCO Excavating for $176,191.60 to construct the Highway 163 convenience center site. The board also approved a $15,000 budget amendment for the Department of Social Services using state LIEAP funds, and approved the February 2021 monthly tax report. No action was taken on proposed Chapter 91 ordinance text updates, county property addressing, or a solid waste fee discussion, with these items deferred to the April 5, 2021 meeting.
- Approved the March 1, 2021 regular session minutes as written
- Adopted the agenda with an added DSS budget amendment
- Approved a $15,000 DSS budget amendment funded by state LIEAP funds
- Approved the February 2021 monthly tax report as presented
- Approved the lowest bid of $176,191.60 from PADCO for Hwy. 163 convenience center construction
- Took no action on Chapter 91 ordinance text updates, deferring to April 5, 2021
- Took no action on county property addressing, deferring to April 5, 2021
- Took no action on solid waste fee discussion
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The commission will receive updates on the Ashe Industrial Park development and Wilkes Community College construction. The agenda also includes a presentation of the 2019-2020 audit report and a mid-year budget review. Additionally, commissioners will consider a resolution regarding ABC permit contact information.
- Ashe Industrial Park development update
- Approval of Blue Ridge Energy REDLG Loan and Grant Program
- FY 2019-2020 Audit Report presentation
- Mid-year budget review
- Resolution updating ABC permit contact information
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved a Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG) loan from Blue Ridge Energy to support development of the Ashe Industrial Park. The board also adopted a resolution updating the mailing address for ABC permit recommendations, with one commissioner abstaining. Minutes from the February 15 meeting and the agenda were approved unanimously. No public comment was offered.
- Approved the February 15, 2021 Regular Session Minutes as written
- Adopted the agenda as presented
- Approved the Blue Ridge Energy REDLG loan for Ashe Industrial Park development
- Adopted a resolution updating the ABC Commission contact mailing address for the Board Chairman
- Approved adjournment at 12:00 p.m.
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Commission will review procedures for the Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Program and a contract for the High Country Council of Governments. The agenda includes updates on building inspections, tax reports, and Department of Social Services operations. Additionally, the Sheriff has requested a fund transfer to purchase an inmate transport van.
- Adoption of Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Program procedures
- Approval of High Country Council of Governments Administrative Contract
- Request to transfer funds for an inmate transport van purchase
- Announcement of bids for the Highway 163 Convenience Center site
- Request to change the Department of Social Services agency attorney grade
The Ashe County Commission unanimously adopted federally required procedures and policies for $900,000 in CDBG-CV funds to help low- and moderate-income households with utility payments, and approved an administrative contract with the High Country Council of Governments. The board also approved youth spring sports with amended mask protocols, a $50,000 DSS budget increase, and a $50,000 transfer for a new inmate transport van. All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Adopted CDBG-CV procedures and policies for $900K COVID utility assistance (5-0)
- Approved HCCOG administrative contract for CDBG-CV funds (5-0)
- Approved youth spring sports with amended mask protocols (5-0)
- Approved COVID-19 liability waiver for youth sports (5-0)
- Approved $50K DSS budget amendment with CIP and LIEAP funds (5-0)
- Approved $50K transfer from Contingency Fund for inmate transport van (5-0)
- Denied untimely Present-Use Value application (5-0)
- Approved DSS attorney grade change to 80 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (13 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will review sheriff budget amendments and a revised Century Link easement for the courthouse. The agenda includes presentations from the Chamber of Commerce and requests regarding volunteer awards. The board will also consider an amendment to its rules of procedure.
- Sheriff budget amendments
- Revised Century Link easement to courthouse
- Resolution to name a section of Highway 221 in honor of Senator Steve Goss
- Amendment to the Board of Commissioners' Rules of Procedure
- Approval to advertise tax liens
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners approved several routine items, including advertising delinquent tax liens, two Sheriff's Office budget amendments, a revised Century Link easement, and a resolution naming a section of Highway 221 after Senator Steve Goss. A motion to remove a rule requiring a second for motions failed. The board also entered executive session for legal and personnel issues, with no action taken.
- Approved advertising delinquent tax liens as required by NC General Statute 105-369 (5-0)
- Approved Sheriff's Office budget amendment transferring $17,235.53 from surplus vehicle sales (5-0)
- Approved Sheriff's Office budget amendment transferring $15,452 from insurance proceeds (5-0)
- Approved revised Century Link easement for fiber line to Clerk of Court's office (5-0)
- Approved 36th Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony as drive-through event on April 22, 2021 (5-0)
- Appointed Latreka Dailey to Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (5-0)
- Adopted resolution to name section of US Highway 221 in honor of Senator Steve Goss (5-0)
- Failed motion to remove Rule 15 from Board's Rules of Procedure (2-3)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission scheduled a work session following its regular meeting. The agenda consists of discussions regarding several county departments and rules of procedure.
- Discussion: Tax Department and Social Services
- Discussion: Solid Waste and Economic Development
- Discussion: Agricultural Extension and Parks and Recreation
- Discussion: Environmental Health and Airport
- Discussion: Rules of Procedure
The Ashe County Commission met in a work session to hear departmental overviews and discuss goals for the coming year. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the session was informational only. Topics included the Tax Department, DSS, Solid Waste, Economic Development, Agricultural Extension, Parks and Recreation, and others.
- No formal decisions or votes taken during work session
- Commissioner Powers requested removal of second requirement from Rules of Procedure be placed on Feb. 1 agenda
- County Manager to schedule future discussions with Environmental Health and Airport Advisory Board
- Chairman McNeill to visit county-owned buildings with County Manager and Maintenance Supervisor
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commission
The County Commission will receive monthly departmental and tax reports from county officials. The agenda includes discussions regarding COVID-19, emergency paid sick leave, and an amended airport hangar lease. Additionally, the commission will consider proposed charter amendments for the High Country Council of Governments.
- DSS monthly departmental update and budget amendment
- Request for reinstatement of employee sick leave
- COVID-19 update and emergency paid sick leave discussion
- Amended airport hangar lease
- Century Link easement to the courthouse
The Ashe County Commission unanimously approved a $20,767 budget amendment for the Department of Social Services, funded by additional unbudgeted COVID revenues. The board also approved the December tax report, reinstated 201 hours of sick leave for a sheriff's employee, extended the emergency paid sick leave policy through June 2021, and approved High Country Council of Governments charter amendments. Two items were discussed but not voted on: an amended airport hangar lease and a Century Link easement, both with suggested changes to be incorporated.
- Approved $20,767 DSS budget increase from COVID revenues (5-0)
- Approved December 2020 monthly tax report (5-0)
- Approved reinstatement of 201 hours sick leave for Steven Marvel (5-0)
- Approved extension of Emergency Paid Sick Leave policy through June 2021 (5-0)
- Approved High Country Council of Governments charter amendments (5-0)
- Approved January 4, 2021 regular session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted agenda as written (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
County Commission
The Ashe County Commission will meet to approve minutes from December 2020 meetings. The agenda includes presentations regarding a CSBG funding application and the Agriculture Center. The commission will also consider an airport hangar lease.
- Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission CSBG Funding Application presentation
- Ashe County Farm Bureau Agriculture Center update
- Consideration of an airport hangar lease
- Approval of December 2020 meeting minutes
The Ashe County Board of Commissioners met on January 4, 2021, and approved all items on the agenda. This included the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding application for Emergency Assistance and Family Self-Sufficiency programs, and an airport hangar lease with amendments. The board also approved minutes from prior meetings and the meeting agenda. No public comment was offered.
- Approved December 15, 2020 Special Meeting with Board of Education minutes (5-0)
- Approved December 21, 2020 Regular Session minutes (5-0)
- Approved December 21, 2020 Executive Session minutes (5-0)
- Adopted meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
- Approved CSBG Funding Application forms #210 and #212 for Emergency Assistance and Family Self-Sufficiency (5-0)
- Approved airport hangar lease as amended, including door repair cost recoupment terms (5-0)
- Adjourned at 10:06 a.m. (5-0)