Carter County public meetings in 2022

Regular Session

The Board will consider a $1,038,038 HVAC system for the Sheriff Department and Jail, funded by grants and ARPA money. They will also vote on a $405,000 dozer for the Landfill, paid for by a LATCF grant and fund balance. Other items include converting landfill positions, Saturday recycling center staffing, and multiple school budget amendments.

• Motion to authorize $1,038,038 for a new HVAC system at the Sheriff Department and Jail, using a Jail Confinement Grant, LATCF grant, and ARPA funds.
• Motion to authorize a new dozer for the Landfill at a cost not to exceed $405,000, funded by the LATCF grant and Landfill Unassigned Fund Balance.
• Motion to approve a five-year contract with Novatech for copiers at the Sheriff’s Office.
• Motion to approve $264,518.28 for General Purpose School Budget Amendment 141-4.
• Appointment to fill a vacancy on the Board of County Commissioners for the 6th District.

The Board of Commissioners approved several budget amendments for schools and county funds. They authorized a new HVAC system for the Sheriff Department and Jail and a new dozer for the landfill. Jason Clawson was appointed to fill a vacancy for the 6th District.

• Appointed Jason Clawson to the 6th District commission seat (18-0)
• Approved $1,038,038.00 for Sheriff Department and Jail HVAC system (19-0)
• Authorized landfill dozer purchase not to exceed $405,000 (19-0)
• Authorized landfill to convert two part-time positions to full-time for up to $17,000 (19-0)
• Authorized landfill to open Recycle Center on Saturdays for approximately $4,300 (19-0)
• Approved five-year copier contract with Novatech for Sheriff's Office (19-0)
• Approved monetary donations of $5,365.00 to Carter County Animal Shelter (19-0)
• Approved non-monetary donations of $1,796.22 to Animal Shelter (19-0)

Special Called Session

The Carter County Board of Commissioners will consider a major pay increase for sheriff's department road officers, deputies, and detectives totaling $1,230,528, plus a separate $272,706 increase for remaining sheriff employees. The board will also hold public hearings on proposed homeless shelter regulations and two rezoning requests: one at 120 Slagle Road (R1 to A1) and another at 133 Highway 91 (A1 to R1). Additional items include a budget calendar, fund amendments, and a discussion on county official overpayments.

• Motion to increase sheriff's road officers, deputies, and SROs pay by $5.00/hour, total $1,230,528
• Motion to increase remaining sheriff employees pay by $5.00/hour, total $272,706
• Public hearing and vote on homeless shelter regulations
• Rezoning request by Jason Shell for 120 Slagle Road from R1 to A1
• Rezoning request by Mills Family Farm for 133 Highway 91 from A1 to R1

The Board of Commissioners approved hourly pay increases for all Sheriff's Department employees. The board also approved several budget amendments, rezoning requests, and the appropriation of federal funds for school projects.

• Approved $5.00/hr raise for Sheriff's road officers, deputies, detectives, and SROs at a cost of $1,230,528.00 (22-0-2)
• Approved $5.00/hr raise for all remaining Sheriff's Department employees at a cost of $272,706.00 (22-0-2)
• Appropriated $500,000.00 from ESSR for School Federal Projects (21-3)
• Approved rezoning of 120 Slagle Road from R1 to A1 (24-0)
• Approved rezoning of 133 Highway 91 from A1 to R1 (24-0)
• Approved Resolution Amending the Zoning Resolution regarding Homeless Shelter Regulations (24-0)
• Approved payment not to exceed $31,370.78 to seven elected officials from Unassigned Fund Balance (22-2)
• Renamed A.E. Miller Road to Backwoods Road (All in favor)

Agriculture Committee

The committee approved obtaining a quote from Appalachian Arbor Scapes to trim a tree in the parking lot. Members also reviewed building maintenance updates and upcoming 4-H and agricultural programming.

• Approved agenda
• Approved August 17 meeting minutes
• Approved seeking quote from Appalachian Arbor Scapes for tree trimming

Regular Session

The Carter County Board of Commissioners will consider multiple budget amendments and resolutions, including a $1,127,500 appropriation for courthouse window and cornice repairs, $49,000 for new sheriff vehicle radios, and a resolution rejecting the proposed renaming of the Squawberry Community. The board will also elect a Budget Committee chairperson due to a deadlock between Dr. Robert Acuff and Aaron Frazier, and vote on numerous committee appointments.

• Appropriation of $1,127,500 for courthouse window and cornice repairs from reserve account
• Appropriation of $49,000 for new sheriff vehicle radio equipment from reserve account
• Resolution rejecting the proposed renaming of the Squawberry Community
• Election of Budget Committee chairperson due to deadlock between Dr. Robert Acuff and Aaron Frazier
• Appointment of members to Parks and Recreation Board, Beer Board, and other committees

The commission voted on a resolution expressing concerns about healthcare services in Carter County and Ballad Health's operations. The resolution failed with 11 yes votes, 9 no votes, and 2 abstentions. Other actions included approving a $6.3M Tweetsie Trail grant, a jail HVAC loan, and accepting the Herman Robinson Campus gift.

• Resolution expressing concerns about Ballad Health failed (11-9-2)
• Approved $6.3M Tweetsie Trail grant from State of Tennessee (19-3)
• Approved jail HVAC loan from Carter County Bank at 4.38% over 12 years (22-0)
• Accepted gift of Herman Robinson Campus and paid $517 closing fee (22-0)
• Approved water treatment agreement with Chem-Aqua for $16,982.23 (22-0)
• Approved Nor-Well pump installation contract for $5,230 (20-2)
• Approved revised 2023-24 budget resolution (22-0)
• Approved budget amendments totaling over $19 million (all 22-0)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will hold elections for Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and various standing committee members. The agenda also includes a discussion on the Courthouse Emergency Egress Plan and several monthly designations.

• Election of Board Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Election of commissioners to Budget, Nominating, Buildings & Grounds, Health & Welfare, Law Enforcement, Rules & By-Laws, Education, Highway, and Landfill committees
• Election of Financial Management Committee members
• Interlocal Cooperation and Mutual Aid Agreement for the Tennessee District 1 Task Force
• Designation of September 2022 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

The Carter County Commission re-elected Ginger Holdren as chairperson and Kelly Collins as vice chairperson by acclamation. The board also approved a $400,000 blanket bond policy for county offices and a separate policy for the Trustee's office, funded from unassigned fund balance. A resolution to join the Tennessee District 1 Task Force was approved, and $1,524,371.73 was reserved for broadband internet matching funds. Sheriff Fraley reported that the county jail faces potential de-certification by December 9, 2022, due to staffing shortages and maintenance issues.

• Re-elected Ginger Holdren as chairperson by acclamation (23-0)
• Appointed Kelly Collins as vice chairperson by acclamation (23-0)
• Approved $400,000 blanket bond policy for all offices and up to $1M policy for Trustee's office (24-0)
• Approved Resolution 837 to join Tennessee District 1 Task Force (24-0)
• Reserved $1,524,371.73 for broadband internet matching funds (24-0)
• Appointed Sheriff Mike Fraley to the 911 Board (24-0)
• Approved Resolution 835 designating September 2022 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (24-0)
• Approved Resolution 836 designating September 2022 as Overdose Awareness and National Recovery Month (24-0)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on amending campground zoning regulations. The body is also deciding on the 2022-2023 tax levy and appropriations for various county funds and agencies.

• Resolution to amend Carter County Zoning Resolution regarding campground regulations
• Resolution fixing the tax levy for the 2022-2023 fiscal year
• Appropriation of $103,800 for Communications Officer department operations and equipment
• Appropriation of $20,000 to Hampton Volunteer Fire Department for new building construction
• Proposed increase of rates and fees at Carter County Landfill effective October 1, 2022

The Carter County Commission approved a $4,558,136 communication system upgrade, including pagers, funded by ARP money, with 17 yes and 3 no votes. They also passed resolutions amending campground zoning, the FY2022-2023 budget, and the tax levy. Several appropriations were approved, including $20,000 for Hampton Volunteer Fire Department and $103,800 for the Communications Officer department.

• Approved $4,558,136 communication system upgrade with ARP funds (17-3)
• Approved resolution amending campground zoning regulations (20-0)
• Approved FY2022-2023 budget resolution 832 (19-1)
• Approved FY2022-2023 tax levy resolution 833 (19-1)
• Appropriated $20,000 to Hampton Volunteer Fire Department (14-6)
• Appropriated $103,800 for Communications Officer department operations (20-0)
• Approved landfill rate increase effective October 1, 2022 (20-0)
• Adopted Riverwood Circle as a county road subject to right-of-way conveyance (20-0)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will decide on the tax levy and appropriations for county funds, departments, and agencies for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The body will also consider financial assistance for low-income elderly, disabled homeowners, and disabled veterans.

• Appropriation of approximately $1,183,888.00 from American Rescue Plan Fund for $4,000 bonuses per eligible employee and retiree
• Appropriation of $87,292.00 for the demolition of two County buildings
• Appropriation of $10,000.00 to fund DAV Chapter 39 Veterans Honor Guard
• Application for Tennessee Water Infrastructure Investment Program American Rescue Plan Funds
• Contract with CleanRite Cleaning and Maintenance Services for the Carter County Health Department

The Carter County Commission approved $174,809 in funding for outside agencies, pending state budget approval, and approved a contract with OneDigital for HR services. Two constables were appointed for the 2nd District, and the speed limit on Old Bristol Highway was reduced from 45 to 35 MPH. All votes were unanimous except the speed limit change, which had two no votes.

• Approved $174,809 in outside agency funding (22-0)
• Approved OneDigital HR services contract (22-0)
• Appointed Michael Mason and Samuel Pearce as 2nd District constables
• Reduced speed limit to 35 MPH on Old Bristol Highway (20-2)
• Approved disposal of Trustee's Office items (22-0)
• Approved disposal of Juvenile Services items (22-0)
• Approved General Fund Budget Amendment #101-1 for $50,313.46 (22-0)
• Approved $2,195 monetary and $655.46 non-monetary donations to Animal Shelter (22-0)

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee approved a $4,000 bonus for each eligible employee and retiree, funded by ARPA funds, totaling $1,183,888.00. The motion passed with five ayes, one nay, and one abstention. The committee also approved appropriations for Honor Guard, building demolitions, water infrastructure match, and other items.

• Approved $4,000 employee bonus plus payroll expenses, total $1,183,888.00 from ARPA Fund 127 (5-1-1)
• Appropriated $10,000 for former Honor Guard, fiscal sponsor American Veterans Chapter 39 (unanimous)
• Appropriated $87,292.00 for demolition of two County buildings (unanimous)
• Appropriated sale proceeds of Maintenance Department items to Maintenance budget (unanimous)
• Appropriated $606,046.00 from ARPA funds for TN Water Infrastructure Investment Program match (unanimous)
• Approved School Federal Projects Fund #142 budget amendment #1 for $100,605.13 (unanimous)
• Approved monetary donations of $1,435.00 to Animal Shelter (unanimous)
• Approved non-monetary donations of $503.70 to Animal Shelter by Walmart (unanimous)

Buildings & Grounds

The Building & Grounds Committee approved a bid from Gwinn Construction for $84,972 to demolish and backfill the old Planning and Probation buildings, plus $2,500 for geo-technical services from Cross Engineering, totaling $87,472 from the Capital Improvements Fund. The motion also included an amendment for the County Attorney to notify Ms. Whitehead about the project timeline. The decision will be forwarded to the Budget Committee for further approval.

• Approved Gwinn Construction bid for demolition and backfill at $84,972 (6-0)
• Approved Cross Engineering geo-technical services at $2,500 (6-0)
• Approved total $87,472 from Capital Improvements Fund (6-0)
• Amended motion to have County Attorney contact Ms. Whitehead about project timing (6-0)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will review several budget amendment requests from various county funds. The agenda also includes a proposed annual raise for full-time and part-time employees in the County and Highway Departments.

• $2,000 annual raise for full-time and $1,000 for part-time County and Highway employees
• $7,000 for Highway 400 project paving costs to Go Betsy
• $1,097,477.93 budget amendment for County Fund #101
• $356,384.68 budget amendment for Highway Fund #131
• TDOT Litter Grant Contract and State Inmate Contract approvals

The Carter County Commission voted 10-10 to reject a motion to approve parts of the General Purpose School Fund budget amendment #12A, which had been denied by the budget committee. The commission also approved multiple other budget amendments, a landfill rate increase, and various contracts. A motion to approve the full amendment #12A later failed 9-11.

• Rejected motion to approve amendments 1-3 and 5 of Budget Amendment #12A (10-10)
• Rejected motion to approve General-Purpose School Fund Amendment 12A as written (9-11)
• Approved $7,000 for Highway 400 project paving costs (19-1)
• Approved County Fund #101 budget amendment #12 totaling $1,097,477.93 (19-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Solid Waste Fund #116 budget amendment #5 for $87,296.50 (20-0)
• Approved Health Fund #117 budget amendment #1 for $10,000 (20-0)
• Approved Highway Fund #131 budget amendment #7 for $356,384.68 (20-0)
• Approved landfill rate increase to $57.50 effective August 1, 2022 (20-0)

Financial Management

The Financial Management Committee approved a motion to have the Finance department explore borrowing $8.5 million through bonds or local loans to fund the Hunter Elementary School renovation project, with options for 10, 12, and 15-year terms. The committee also approved several credit applications for county departments, and voted to pay for two bridge projects from the unassigned fund balance instead of ARPA funds. A motion to appropriate employee bonuses from ARPA funds failed.

• Approved motion to explore borrowing $8.5M for Hunter Elementary renovation (carried)
• Approved EMA credit application for AutoZone (carried)
• Approved Highway Dept and County Gov credit applications for Happy Valley Ford (carried)
• Approved Solid Waste credit application for Fisher Auto Parts (carried)
• Approved paying Blevins Bridge and Danner Bridge projects ($69,110.30) from unassigned fund balance (carried)
• Employee bonus appropriation from ARPA funds failed (2-4)

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee approved the General Purpose School budget for 2022-23, which has revenues of $42,710,874 and expenditures of $43,681,162, leaving a deficit of $970,288 to be covered by fund balance. The committee also approved the Food Service, Head Start, and Capital Projects fund budgets, as well as employee raises of $2,000 for full-time and $1,000 for part-time employees, funded partly from unassigned fund balance. The Highway Department budget was revised to allocate additional state funds to fuel and asphalt line items, and the Parks & Rec budget was increased by $30,000 for matching funds for a 319 Grant.

• Approved General Purpose School budget with $970,288 deficit (7-0-1 abstention)
• Approved Food Service Fund budget with $369,928 deficit (unanimous)
• Approved Head Start Fund budget with $28,487 deficit (unanimous)
• Approved Capital Projects Fund budget (unanimous)
• Approved employee raises: $2,000 full-time, $1,000 part-time (7-0-1 abstention)
• Approved Parks & Rec budget increase to $111,670 for 319 Grant match (unanimous)
• Approved County Buildings budget line-item change (unanimous)
• Approved revised Highway Budget with additional state funds (unanimous)

Buildings & Grounds

The Building & Grounds Committee met and approved the agenda and previous minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates on ongoing projects, including the jail/annex renovations, accessible playground/dog park, rehabilitation facility at the old prison work camp, and demolition of planning and probation buildings. The committee discussed the need for an RFP for courthouse gutter repairs and noted that the demolition contract will go before the full commission for approval.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (6 yes, 2 abstain)

Education Committee

The Carter County Education Committee met on June 6, 2022, and approved its agenda. No minutes were reviewed, and no public comments were made. The committee deferred all new business to a Thursday meeting. The Director of Schools report noted that the School Board is interviewing candidates to replace Dr. Tracy McAbee, with a new director to report next month.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Deferred new business to Thursday meeting
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee approved most departmental budgets and outside agency funding for FY 2022-23, but rejected the Sports and Recreation Fund budget and the Economic Development (NeTREP) request. The committee also reduced the school district's Maintenance of Effort by $231,592 and elected Julie Guinn as Vice Chair. A motion to give all county employees a $1,000 raise failed.

• Approved Highway/Public Works budget (all ayes)
• Approved Solid Waste/Sanitation Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved Health Department Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved Drug Control Fund budget (all ayes)
• Rejected Sports and Recreation Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved General Debt Service Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved $469,000 for Volunteer Fire Departments (all ayes)
• Reduced school Maintenance of Effort by $231,592 (all ayes)

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee approved most departmental budgets and outside agency funding for FY 2022-23, but rejected the Sports and Recreation Fund budget and a motion for county employee raises. The committee also reduced the school district's Maintenance of Effort by $231,592 and requested the school board return with an approved budget by June 8th.

• Approved Highway/Public Works budget (all ayes)
• Approved Solid Waste/Sanitation Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved Health Department Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved Drug Control Fund budget (all ayes)
• Rejected Sports and Recreation Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved General Debt Service Fund budget (all ayes)
• Approved $469,000 for Volunteer Fire Departments (all ayes)
• Reduced school Maintenance of Effort by $231,592 (all ayes)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several budget amendments across multiple county funds. Discussion includes water line replacements for bridges, road maintenance, and the potential addition of Juneteenth as a county holiday.

• Approval of up to $15,000 for Danner Bridge and up to $60,000 for Blevins Hollow Bridge water line replacements
• Funding of $1,423,999 for Outside Agencies for FY 2022-23
• Creation of a reserve account for the Animal Shelter limited to $250,000
• Adoption of a 0.2 mile section of Old Milligan Highway as a county road with $25,000 for repairs
• Consideration of adding Juneteenth as a County Holiday

The commission approved a $1.77 million General Fund budget amendment, rescinded a balanced budget resolution, and approved multiple other budget amendments and contracts. It also authorized drafting a purchase agreement for the Masonic Lodge and approved various operational items.

• Rescinded Resolution 688 (balanced budget) (18-2)
• Approved General Fund Budget Amendment 101-11, $1,767,136.58 (20-0)
• Approved Solid Waste Fund Amendment 116-5, $54,380.17 (20-0)
• Approved Health Department Fund Amendment 117-3, $5,000 (20-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Fund Amendment 127-1, $1,477,267.95 (21-0)
• Approved Highway Fund Amendment 131-6, $105,440 (21-0)
• Approved General Purpose School Fund Amendment 141-8, $1,960,942.04 (21-0)
• Approved Schools Federal Projects Fund Amendment 142-8, $240,607.48 (21-0)

Animal Shelter Board

The board heard shelter updates, discussed ongoing grinder pump repair issues with the city, and reviewed a letter from the 911 board attorney regarding call handling. The board agreed to seek opinions from county and city attorneys on 911 issues and discussed the need for a spay/neuter facility. No formal votes were taken on these items; the minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Discussed grinder pump replacement with city of Elizabethton
• Agreed to seek attorney opinions on 911 call handling
• Discussed need for spay/neuter facility

Budget Committee

The committee approved several budget amendments, including $315,000 for seven new Sheriff Department vehicles. Members also discussed funding for a boat ramp improvement project and restricted funds for jail HVAC and communications upgrades.

• $315,000 to purchase seven Dodge Charger police package vehicles for the Sheriff Department
• $7,000 and $3,000 appropriated for the Go Betsy boat ramp improvement project
• $511.28 allocated for EMA camera and alarm system testing
• Restriction of $301,000 in the Excess Board Bill reserve for jail HVAC replacement
• $3,598.00 in total monetary donations listed

The Carter County Budget Committee approved $1,423,999 in funding for outside agencies, with Robin McKamey abstaining. It also approved a motion to revert to the 2008 Local Option Sales Tax resolution, correcting disbursements to comply with Tennessee statute. Multiple budget amendments were passed unanimously, and a reserve account for the Animal Shelter was established, capped at $250,000.

• Approved $1,423,999 for outside agencies (6-0, McKamey abstained)
• Approved reverting to 2008 LOST resolution for sales tax disbursement
• Approved Animal Shelter reserve account capped at $250,000 (unanimous)
• Approved County Fund #101 budget amendment #11 totaling $276,586.61 (unanimous)
• Approved County Fund #101 budget amendment #11a for $2,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Solid Waste Fund #115 budget amendment #4 for $18,500 (unanimous)
• Approved Highway Fund #131 budget amendment #6 for $802,000 (unanimous)
• Approved General Fund #141 budget amendment #11 for $720,414.76 (unanimous)

Special Called Session

The Board of County Commissioners will review and consider a proposed countywide communications project. The session includes discussion regarding current proposals, bids, and potential funding methods.

• Review of the proposed Carter County Communications Project
• Discussion of project proposals and bids
• Discussion of potential sources and methods of funding

The Carter County Commission voted to reject the RFP from Communications International and move forward with Motorola Solutions for the countywide radio system. The commission asked Motorola to bring back a complete cost estimate. The decision followed recommendations from county agencies, the school system, and the highway department.

• Rejected RFP from Communications International (20-0-1)
• Approved moving forward with Motorola Solutions (20-0-1)
• Requested complete cost estimate from Motorola Solutions

Buildings & Grounds

The Building & Grounds Committee approved a $440,400 bid from Construction Partners, LLC for the Financial Department renovation. They also accepted the Roan Mountain VFD lease and approved the agenda and previous minutes. Several projects were discussed, including the accessible playground and dog park, with cost estimates provided.

• Approved $440,400 bid from Construction Partners, LLC for Financial Department renovations (8-0)
• Accepted Roan Mountain VFD lease as written (8-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (6 yes, 1 abstention)

Financial Management

The Financial Management Committee approved a new employee bonus policy and an updated employee handbook. The committee also discussed potential Skyward software upgrades, audit findings regarding official pay, and various construction bids.

• Approval of Carter County employee bonus policy
• Revision to the county Purchasing Policy
• Discussion of Skyward software upgrade and compatibility with sheriff's office time-keeping
• Review of 2021-22 audit report findings regarding official pay compliance
• Approval of Highway Department credit application for Happy Valley Ford

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several budget amendments across multiple funds, including a $315,000 appropriation for Sheriff's Department vehicles. The meeting also includes discussions on the Carter County Communications Project and potential landfill service evaluations.

• $315,000.00 appropriation for seven vehicles for the Sheriff’s Department
• $300,000.00 reservation for the Communications Project
• $315,000.00 reservation for the Jail’s HVAC system replacement
• Designation of the bridge on Old Watauga Road as the 'Harry T. Stout Memorial Bridge'
• Proposal to develop an RFP for evaluating Carter County Landfill operations

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will discuss appropriation requests for the Carter County Honor Guard and boat ramp improvements. The body will also review budget amendments for the General, Landfill, School, and Head Start funds, and hold a budget presentation for the Highway Department.

• Request for $10,000 previously appropriated for the Carter County Honor Guard
• Request for $7,000 previously reserved for boat ramp improvement project
• Budget amendments for General Fund #101, Landfill Fund #116, General Purpose School Fund #141, School Federal Projects Fund #142, and Head Start Fund #145
• Monetary donation listing totaling $1,293.00
• FY 2022-23 Budget Presentation for Highway Department Fund #131

Buildings & Grounds

The Building & Grounds Committee voted unanimously to refer the jail/annex renovation financing to the Financial Management Committee to explore bond rates and other financing options. The committee also received updates on several projects, including the roof repair at the Planning Office, the accessible playground/dog park grant, and the sale of the Sluder property. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved March meeting minutes (6 yes, 2 abstentions)
• Referred jail/annex renovation financing to Financial Management Committee (unanimous)

Financial Management

The Carter County Commission is reviewing various financial matters, including the 2022-23 budget and potential adjustments. Discussions include personnel changes, departmental funding, and specific requests regarding county services.

• Review of 2022-23 budget items
• Discussion of personnel and department staffing
• Financial management oversight for county departments

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will review several resolutions regarding state legislation, grant applications, and infrastructure projects. The Budget Committee is scheduled to consider multiple fund amendments and the sale of surplus property.

• Resolution for Community Development Block Grant funds for Hampton Utility District water system improvements
• Resolution for Appalachian Regional Commission grant funds for Centralized CTE campus equipment
• Resolution accepting a TDOT project for Smalling Bridge over Watauga River
• Budget amendment for Highway/Public Works Fund #131 in the amount of $113,000.00
• Budget amendment for School Federal Projects Fund #142 in the amount of $406,000.00

The Carter County Commission filled two vacant commission seats and a constable seat by acclamation, then approved multiple budget amendments, grants, and other routine items. All votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with no substantive opposition recorded.

• Appointed Lesley Hughes as 7th District Commissioner (22-0)
• Appointed Jerry Stout as 8th District Commissioner (22-0)
• Appointed Shana Brower as 5th District Constable (22-0)
• Approved $63,000 for 319 Grant match from Parks and Rec budget (23-0)
• Approved CDBG Grant resolution for fire department radios up to $62,759 from ARP funds (23-0)
• Froze Parks and Recreation budget pending Budget Committee review (23-0)
• Approved HVS hotel feasibility study for $15,000 from Unassigned Fund Balance (23-0)
• Approved multiple budget amendments totaling over $500,000 (23-0)

Financial Management

The Financial Management Committee approved selling the modular building on the Sluder property via GovDeals.com, with the buyer covering moving costs, and if unsold, it will be demolished with the frame recycled. The committee also referred the Sheriff's Department's request to use $315K in reserve funds for vehicles to the Budget Committee. The Hunter Elementary renovation project was deferred until May 2022 pending bid results.

• Approved sale of modular building on Sluder property via GovDeals.com (motion passed)
• Referred $315K reserve fund request for sheriff's vehicles to Budget Committee
• Deferred Hunter Elementary renovation financing discussion to May 2022
• Approved February minutes with correction on Powell Road Bridge project timeline

Buildings & Grounds

The Buildings & Grounds Committee approved a motion to ask the Financial Management Committee to declare the modular building on the Sluder Property as surplus so it can be listed on GovDeals.com. The committee also approved sending quotes for a new metal roof for the Planning & Zoning Office to the Budget Committee. Discussions were held on the Jail/Annex renovation plans, including a proposed $9.3 million budget and separate funds for the Archives.

• Approved motion to declare Sluder Property modular building surplus for GovDeals (8-0)
• Approved sending metal roof quotes for Planning & Zoning Office to Budget Committee (8-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several budget items including personnel bonuses for the Sheriff's Office and Jail. The meeting also includes presentations from the Chamber of Commerce, Keep Carter County Beautiful, and Parks and Rec.

• $3,000 bonus for full-time and $1,500 bonus for part-time jail personnel
• $1,000 annual pay raise for full-time Corrections officers
• $80,000 appropriation for Communications officer salary and benefits
• Up to $70,000 for Sheriff Department law enforcement equipment
• Resolution in support of a broadband infrastructure expansion project

The Carter County Commission approved a $3,000 bonus for full-time and $1,500 for part-time sheriff and jail personnel, retroactive to October 1, 2021, and an immediate $1,000 annual raise for full-time corrections officers. They also approved $80,000 for a communications officer position, $70,000 for law enforcement equipment, and several budget amendments. A resolution supporting broadband infrastructure expansion was passed, and a juvenile detention center rate increase was tabled until March.

• Approved $3,000/$1,500 bonuses for sheriff and jail personnel (19-1-1)
• Approved $1,000 annual raise for full-time jailers (20-0-1)
• Approved $80,000 for communications officer position (17-3-1)
• Approved $70,000 for law enforcement equipment (21-0)
• Approved broadband infrastructure expansion resolution (21-0)
• Tabled juvenile detention center rate increase until March (16-4-1)
• Approved $8,102 monetary and $216.31 non-monetary donations to Animal Shelter (21-0)
• Approved multiple budget amendments totaling $305,187.38 (21-0)

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee approved a 10% pay raise for all Sheriff Department employees, to be reviewed by the County Attorney before the next full Commission meeting. The committee also approved an $800 annual training supplement for Jailers, a $150,000 appropriation for a new Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department firehouse, and a $78,330 appropriation to cover a Parks and Recreation budget shortfall. Several budget amendments and donations were also approved.

• Approved 10% pay raise for all Sheriff Department employees (unanimous)
• Approved $800 annual Jailer training supplement (6-2)
• Appropriated $150,000 for Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department firehouse (unanimous)
• Appropriated $78,330 to Parks and Recreation to cover budget shortfall (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 for Families Free from Opioid Settlement funds (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 reallocation to UETHDA Housing Services (unanimous)
• Approved Capital Outlay Note for $502,000 Landfill equipment loan (unanimous)
• Approved multiple budget amendments and donations

Financial Management

The Carter County Financial Management Committee approved a policy giving the Finance Committee the right to hire and fire the Director of Finance only with County Commissioners' approval. They also agreed to leave the Chamber of Commerce tourism contract as written, and discussed financing options for the $3.5 million Hunter Elementary School renovation project, deferring a decision to the March meeting. The committee also directed the Finance Director to continue the process of changing the county's credit card bank to Truist Bank.

• Approved policy for hiring/firing Financial Director (motion carried)
• Agreed to leave Chamber of Commerce tourism contract as written
• Directed Finance Director to continue process of changing credit card bank to Truist
• Removed item 7B (accounting software discussion) from agenda
• Approved December 6, 2021 minutes (3-0-2)
• Approved January minutes with corrections (motion carried)

Buildings & Grounds

The Buildings & Grounds Committee reviewed a prioritized list of capital projects, including a $20 million Workforce Development Complex as a CTE site, $10 million jail/annex renovations, and a $1 million courthouse gutter/window repair. No formal votes were taken on these projects; the committee will continue to review and prioritize them. The committee also heard updates on CTE programs, an accessible playground at Gap Creek Park, and various maintenance issues.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Reviewed prioritized capital projects list; no formal action taken
• Heard CTE update: welding ready by August, cosmetology by January
• Discussed accessible playground at Gap Creek Park; estimated $1 million cost
• Noted courthouse boiler repaired for $3,000
• Adjourned at 7:35 PM

Budget Committee

The Carter County Budget Committee held a special meeting to review employee wage increase options but made no formal decisions. They discussed four scenarios (sliding scale, 10% raise, 5% raise, flat $2,000/$1,000) and a proposed $3,000 sign-on/retention bonus for jailers and deputies, but the motion was withdrawn for lack of a second. The committee will continue discussions at the next meeting on February 14.

• Approved meeting agenda as proposed (voice vote)
• Discussed four wage increase options but took no action
• Motion for $3,000 sign-on/retention bonuses withdrawn (no second)
• Adjourned at 8:19 pm

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several budget amendments and funding requests. Key items include a proposed interfund loan for capital outlays and pay increases for Sheriff Department employees.

• Interfund Loan Capital Outlay Notes not to exceed $502,000
• 10% pay raise for Carter County Sheriff Department employees
• $150,000 appropriation for a new Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department building
• $78,330 appropriation for the Parks and Rec Department
• Annual $800 supplement pay per Jailer for TCI Certification

The Carter County Commission approved a $502,000 interfund loan for landfill trucks, renamed two Hampton bridges after Vietnam veterans, and passed several budget amendments and appropriations. A proposed 10% pay raise for Sheriff's Department employees was withdrawn and sent back to the Budget Committee for further review. The commission also rescinded the community task force review process for ARP funds, replacing it with committee review.

• Approved $502,000 interfund loan for landfill trucks (23-0)
• Renamed two Hampton bridges after Sgt. Michael P. Oliver and Sgt. Tony Lee Griffith (23-0)
• Appropriated $150,000 for Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department building (22-0, 1 abstain)
• Appropriated $800 per jailer for TCI certification (22-0, 1 abstain)
• Withdrew 10% Sheriff's Department pay raise motion, sent to Budget Committee
• Appropriated $78,330 to Parks and Rec (19-4)
• Approved General Fund budget amendment #7 for $307,540 (23-0)
• Rescinded ARP community task force, replaced with committee review (18-5)

Animal Shelter Board

The Carter County Animal Shelter Board met on January 11, 2022, but could not approve the previous minutes because many members were absent. Director Posada reported successful holiday adoption events and high stray intakes, with December numbers showing 53 cat intakes, 43 dog intakes, 56 cat adoptions, and 42 dog adoptions. The board discussed relocating the grinder pump line, enclosing the back dog runs (funded by Friends of the Shelter), and ongoing city-county contract negotiations. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Minutes not approved due to member absences
• Discussed grinder pump line relocation per engineer recommendation
• Discussed enclosing back dog runs with Friends of the Shelter funding
• Discussed city-county shelter contract changes
• Discussed spay/neuter facility plans and community need

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee addressed staffing crises in the Sheriff Department and approved several funding reallocations. The body decided on pay increases and supplements for correction officers to improve retention and recruitment.

• 10% pay raise across the board for all Sheriff Department employees
• Appropriation of $150,000 from ARPA funds or Unassigned Fund Balance for a new Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department firehouse in Hampton
• Appropriation of $7,500 from reserved Opioid Funds for Families Free residential treatment facility analysis
• Reallocation of $4,000 to the UETHDA Housing Services program
• $800 annual training supplement for Jailers from the Sheriff reserve account

Financial Management

The committee approved a zero-interest loan for landfill equipment and a training budget for finance staff. Members also established a process for prioritizing ARPA fund expenditures and approved a credit line for the Highway Department.

• Approved $502,000 Capital Outlay Note from General Debt Fund for three landfill vehicles
• Appropriated $7,500 for Finance Department employee training
• Approved $5,000 credit limit at Fisher Auto Parts for the Highway Department
• Motion passed to seek guidance from Treasury Department and State Attorney General regarding compliance questions for Sheriff Lunceford
• Established that Health and Welfare Committee will create the ARPA fund priority list

Buildings & Grounds

The committee approved its agenda and December minutes, both with 7 yes votes and one abstention. No new business was considered. Mayor Woodby reported that the ADA transition plan is finished and awaiting approval, and that she has requested $20 million from Gov. Lee for the Workforce Development Complex as a CTE site, with a decision expected in February. Other updates included progress on the courthouse restroom project, courtroom live stream, and demolition planning.

• Approved agenda (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved December meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstention)
• No new business considered
• Adjourned (all in favor)

Education Committee

The Carter County Education Committee met on January 3, 2022, and heard from Dr. Tracy McAbee about the New Hunter Elementary project. The Board of Education has voted to move forward, and the project is expected to be completed in 2-3 years, with schools merging. No formal decisions were made by the committee; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved Thomas Proffitt to sit in for Kelly Collins (all in favor)
• Approved the meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from December 2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)