THE ANSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS convened for their regular
monthly meeting on Monday, December 6, 2004 at 6:00 P.M. in Courtroom #1
located in the Anson County Courthouse.

      Commissioners present: Neil Jones
                             Steve Lear
                             Bobby Sikes
                             Dr. Jim Sims
                             Harold C. Smith
                             Ross Streater
                             Jarvis Woodburn

      Staff members present: Chris Wease, County Manager
                             James Bennett, Assistant County Manager
                             Bonnie M. Huntley, CMC, Clerk to the Board
                             Misty Randall, County Attorney
                             Rita James, Data Processing
                             Holly Berry, Finance
                             Stan Vance, Assessor
                             Shelley Maness, Finance Officer
                             Tommy Allen, Sheriff
                             Merrill Naylor, Emergency Management


      County Attorney Randall called the meeting to Order.

      Election of Chairman:  County Attorney Randall called for nominations
for the office of Chairman.  Commissioner Sims nominated Jarvis Woodburn.
Motion by Commissioner Streater, seconded by Commissioner Jones, to close
the nominations on the said name.  Motion carried unanimously.

      Chairman Woodburn stated that is was an honor to be elected Chairman
of the Board.  Chairman Woodburn stated he has learned over the last two
years that being a Commissioner is an awesome undertaking but he is
committed to giving every effort and doing a good job.  Chairman Woodburn
challenged each Commissioner to carry out the business of the county while
respecting the opinion of each other and to respect all citizens coming
before the Board.  Chairman Woodburn further challenged each member to
agree to disagree and get on with doing what is in the best interest of
Anson County and the citizens thereof.

      At this point, Chairman Woodburn called for nominations for the
position of Vice Chairman.  Commissioner Streater nominated Commissioner
Jones.  Commissioner Smith nominated Commissioner Jimmy Sims.  Commissioner
Sims thanked Commissioner Smith but declined the nomination, stating he did
not wish to serve at this point.  Commissioner Smith then nominated Bobby
Sikes who declined saying it was too soon to serve in this capacity.
Commissioner Smith voiced that he did not understand why Commissioner Sims
and Commissioner Sikes turned down the nomination.  Commissioner Sims
voiced that he feels that he can best serve his constituents when he does
not have to think about conducting a meeting, mediating or holding court.
Commissioner Sims voiced that he is only interested in serving the people
of Peachland, Polkton and White Store by making motions and seconds and he
has no interest in anything else.  Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by
Commissioner Streater, to close the nominations on the said name.  Motion
carried 5 to 2 with Commissioner Smith and Chairman Woodburn opposed.

      Chairman Woodburn welcomed those present, voicing appreciation for
their attendance and interest.  Reverend Dale Pace, Red Hill Baptist
Church, Ansonville, delivered the Invocation.

      Approval of the Agenda by Commissioners:  Chairman Woodburn noted
that Stan Vance had asked to be added under Appearances.  Commissioner
Streater asked to add two items under Commissioner Concerns.  Commissioner
Sims asked to add an item.  County Manager Wease stated that he failed to
include tax releases in the Agenda packet and presented each Board member a
copy of the releases, asking to add them to the Consent Agenda as item 4e.
County Manager Wease noted he had a request from the school board in
regards to a sewer connection.  Chairman Woodburn added this to
Administrative Matters as item 5c.  Chairman Woodburn offered that there
were no appointments to be made with County Manager Wease stating that they
are still looking for volunteers to serve on the Industrial Facilities
Pollution Control and Financing Authority Board.  Commissioner Streater
voiced that his items dealt with step and grade and the residency policy.
Commissioner Sikes voiced a concern with the 9-1-1 system.  Commissioner
Sims noted that his concern dealt with the removal of the ambulance and EMT
service from Polkton.  Commissioner Smith was of the opinion that
Commissioners should just be heard and felt they should not have to state
the nature of their item placed under Commissioner Concerns.   Chairman
Woodburn noted that Commissioner Streater's items would be items a and b
under Commissioner Concerns while Commissioner Sims issue would be item c
and the 9-1-1 issue from Commissioner Sikes would be item d.  Chairman
Woodburn asked if there was a need for a closed session with County Manager
Wease answering that they have an Economic Development issue.  Motion by
Commissioner Lear, seconded by Commissioner Sims, to approve the Agenda as
amended.  Motion carried unanimously.

      Appearances:
      Laura Mundell:  Ms. Mundell, representing the Centralina Council of
Governments, asked the Board to endorse the no boundaries report and
authorize the formation of an Economic Development commission.  Ms. Mundell
played a short video created for the regional Economic Development
strategy.  Ms. Mundell explained that Centralina COG, using a consultant,
completed a Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for
the nine county region focusing on regional priorities that create
opportunity and expand innovation.  The regional CEDS:
      Was built on the work done by seven counties
      Added information for two counties to provide a regional strategy
document
      Identify and discuss regional strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats (SWOT analysis)
      Identified key regional clusters that drive the regional economy
      Prioritized regional projects
      Included projects identified in the county strategies.
Ms. Mundell noted that one reason for completing the strategy was to
qualify for a reduction in the amount of local dollars required to match a
grant from EDA.  The next step in the process of qualifying for the
reduction is to form an Economic Development District.  Once a district is
approved, district members receive the 10% discount on the match.  Ms.
Mundell noted that in return, CCOG/Economic Development Commission must
agree to update the Regional CEDS on an annual basis and monitor EDA
activities in the region.  Ms. Mundell also noted that they are seeking
endorsement of the Regional Economic Development Strategy, "No Boundaries"
from their member governments and the City of Charlotte.  Ms. Mundell noted
that EDA requires that the strategy be endorsed by a majority of counties
in the region.  Ms. Mundell noted that along with endorsing the "No
Boundaries" they are asking that we authorize the designation of the
Centralina Economic Commission as an economic development district as
stipulated by the Economic Development Administration  (EDA), the US
Department of Commerce.  Ms. Mundell stated that the Economic Development
District will provide assistance in implementation of the regional
strategy, support regional capacity building and infrastructure
development.  Ms. Mundell noted that the new organization would be
organized as a 501-C-3 non-profit.  Ms. Mundell noted that tourism is
slated to grow by 7.2% in employment.   Motion by Commissioner Sims,
seconded by Commissioner Lear, that this resolution be approved as we feel
it would be in the best interest of Anson County.  Motion carried
unanimously.
                 Resolution of Anson County, North Carolina
  In support of the Centralina Regional Comprehensive Economic Development
   Strategy ("No Boundaries") and the Formation of the Centralina Economic
                           Development Commission
      WHEREAS, Centralina Council of Governments initiated a new program
for regional economic prosperity and has conducted an economic development
study, "No Boundaries", which was presented on September 29, 2004.
      WHEREAS, Anson County is a member of the Centralina Council of
Governments'
      WHEREAS, Anson County recognizes the need to support and promote
economic development for its citizens, by local and regional programs;
      WHEREAS, Anson County supports and promotes Economic Development to
maintain and improve the regional infrastructure and strengthen capacities
needed to sustain economic growth in a positive and competitive
environment; and
      WHEREAS, Anson County recognized the creation that in order to be
eligible for preferential US Economic Development Administration funding
and support and that an Economic Development District must be created and
designated.
      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF Anson
County, NORTH CAROLINA, THAT:
      SECTION 1.  Supports the Regional Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy, "No Boundaries", (September 2004) as a regional plan to be
submitted to the US Economic Development Administration.
      SECTION 2.  Recommends creation of Centralina Economic Development
Commission as a 501© (3) organization and will participate in the
organization and name an elected official or senior staff member to serve
as a representative.
      SECTION 3.  Supports the Centralina Council of Governments seeking
and accepting designation as Centralina Economic Development Commission
      Adopted, with quorum present and voting this 6th day of December,
2004.

Commissioner Smith asked the effect of Centralina COG on local Economic
Development.  Chairman Woodburn noted that the process of the Economic
Development Strategy is to secure funds for Economic Development type
activities in this region.  County Manager Wease noted this would help us
as a partner in implementing some of the strategies outlined in the
Economic Development plan and help us in making grant applications as we
move into implementing all recommendations of the strategy.  Commissioner
Sims noted two simple words, money and power.

      Michele Meredith:  Ms. Meredith presented an update on the Domestic
Violence Coalition.  Ms. Meredith noted that the Coalition has grown since
she arrived in 2000.  Ms. Meredith noted that from July 1, 2004 to October
2004, the court cases are about average for Anson County.  Ms. Meredith
shared that this was kind of scary since Anson County is smaller and we are
almost in comparison with larger counties.  Ms. Meredith noted that
domestic violence was not just a female issue as they work with both men
and women.  Ms. Meredith noted that their funding was cut due to the lack
of a shelter.  Ms. Meredith noted that they are working toward offering
temporary shelter, which would provide shelter for two to four weeks only.
Ms. Meredith noted that there was a possibility of having a house donated
for the shelter and if not, they will make a plea to the community as their
funding is completely through the community and grants.  Ms. Meredith just
wanted to let the Board know they exist and presented them a handout of
information about new bills and laws that went into effect December 1,
2004.  Ms. Meredith outlined the following:
      From July 1, 2003 - June 30, 2004, ACDVC Services served-
      473 crisis calls
      579 unduplicated clients service (67% African American, 30%
Caucasian, 3% Hispanic)
      Provided 856 referral and information services
      Provided 610 court advocacy contacts.
      From July 1, 2004 - October 2004:
      We have currently served over 120 victims as of October
      ACDVS has received 95 crisis calls
      In the courts from July to October 2004:  There have been 29
Protective Orders applied for, 41 assault on a female, 17 communicating
threats, 2 violations of a domestic violence protective order, 4 domestic
criminal trespass, 12 simple assaults, 6 assault with a deadly weapon, 10
resisting public officers and 4 assault on a child under the age of 12.
Ms. Meredith noted that their office was located in The Express building
and they also operate a twenty-four hour crisis line 365 days a year.
Commissioner Sims asked the phone number with Ms. Meredith answering 704-
690-0362 for the crisis line and 704-694-4499 is their office number.  Ms.
Meredith shared that a volunteer training class was scheduled for December
21.  Chairman Woodburn commented that domestic violence was a very serious
problem and more prevalent that we realize.  Chairman Woodburn offered
thanks to Ms. Meredith for the work she and her staff is doing.

      Wilbert Cash:  Mr. Cash stated that he was here to try again to
negotiate two tracts of land in Lanesboro Township.  Mr. Cash explained
that he first appeared before the Board in 1999, when he discovered that
the county had made an error in listing the property.  Mr. Cash noted that
he could not reach a settlement with the Board so he appealed to Raleigh
but said the appeal never reached Raleigh.  Mr. Cash explained that he
purchased the property in 1992 and in 1999 when he was preparing to sell
the property, he found an error had been made somewhere between the
Register of Deeds office and the Assessor's office.  Mr. Cash feels he
should pay the tax owed only from the time the error was discovered in 1999
and not from the original date of 1992.  Mr. Cash also wanted to know why
his appeal never reached Raleigh.   Commissioner Smith asked Mr. Cash where
the county made the error.   Mr. Cash stated that a record of him owning
the property was recorded only in the Register of Deeds' office and not in
the Assessor's office and when he brought it to their attention they taxed
him for the property from 1992 to 1999.  Mr. Cash stated that he refused to
pay since he felt he should not pay for their error.  Mr. Cash noted that
his wages have now been garnished and asked again why his appeal never
reached Raleigh.  Commissioner Streater asked Stan Vance, the Assessor, to
explain.   Mr. Vance stated that he was not aware of all the facts of this
case but noted that through discovery, they can go back only five years.
Mr. Vance stated this might have been listed as unknown property with taxes
accumulating.  Mr. Vance noted that taxes follow the property and the owner
is responsible for all unpaid taxes.  Mr. Vance felt that Mr. Cash should
have appeared before the Board of Equalization and Review.  Mr. Vance felt
that Mr. Cash was saying that the property did not get transferred to his
name and he was not billed.  Mr. Vance explained that by Statute, they do
not have to generate a bill for taxes to be due.  Commissioner Smith asked
the amount of the tax with Mr. Vance answering the amount currently owed
was $360.36, which is the tax from 1994 to present.  Mr. Vance noted that
the tax for 2003 had been paid.   Mr. Cash asked again why his appeal never
reached Raleigh.  Mr. Vance felt that the process was not handled
correctly, as Mr. Cash should have appealed to the Board of Equalization
and Review, which is required before taking the next step.  Chairman
Woodburn stated that apparently Mr. Cash did not receive the right
directions in the beginning.  Commissioner Smith asked Mr. Cash the date he
received the first tax bill with Mr. Cash answering 1999.  Commissioner
Lear asked if the amount owed includes any penalty and interest with Mr.
Vance answering yes.  After discussion, motion by Commissioner Smith,
seconded by Commissioner Lear, that in this matter with Mr. Cash, he stated
he would agree to pay the tax and the tax follows the property, I'm asking
that he be relieved of all interest and penalties from this piece of
property.   Vice Chair Jones was of the opinion the law says that the Board
may not forgive the tax as the only authority the Board has is to relieve
the penalty and interest with Chairman Woodburn answering that was his
understanding.  Chairman Woodburn explained that the motion would relieve
Mr. Cash of the penalty and interest for the period of 1992 to 1999, with
the exception of 1993.  Vice Chair Jones asked the amount of money with
Chairman Woodburn answering the total bill was only $360.36.  Motion
carried unanimously.   Commissioner Smith voiced that Mr. Cash worked for
the Post Office and his wages were being garnished for these taxes and
feels this needs to be cleared.  Chairman Woodburn stated it would be taken
care of.

Chairman Woodburn commented that in the future, he felt it would be better
if appearances needing direction could receive the information prior to
appearing before the Board.

      Board of Elections:  Lonnie Baucom, Chairman of the Board of
Elections, thanked Board members for the $5,000 in capital outlay given in
their last budget to purchase 63 used voting booths.  Mr. Baucom stated
this was one-half of what they need and they saved over $600 by purchasing
the used booths.  Mr. Baucom stated they plan to purchase the other half in
the future.  Mr. Baucom explained that since July 20, they have held three
successful elections with a 61.2 voter turn out in November, which is a
record for Anson County.  Mr. Baucom voiced that as result of the large
turnout, overtime was required to assist with one-stop voting, 9-1-1
addressing and the large number of voter registrations.  Mr. Baucom stated
he was requesting additional funds to meet their budget deficit.  Mr.
Baucom explained that they were allocated $5,000 in their 2004/05 budget
for overtime and have spend $12,628.10.  Mr. Baucom further noted that
precinct officials were allocated $22,784 in the 2004/05 budget and have
spent $35,393.63.  Mr. Baucom noted they moved $7,779 from within the
budget leaving a deficit of $8,922.  Mr. Baucom noted that salary increases
were not included in this amount.  Mr. Baucom noted the possibility of
another statewide election for the offices of Superintendent of Public
Instruction and Commissioner of Agriculture and if this happens, it will
cost Anson County approximately $16,000.00.  Commissioner Smith asked if
their office receives funds from the state or federal government for
operation during elections with Mr. Baucom answering not for operation.
Mr. Baucom noted they received federal funds from the state that had to do
with the voter act and those funds were used to upgrade precincts to meet
ADA requirements.  Commissioner Smith asked if they receive funds from the
State Board of Elections with Mr. Baucom answering they are not funded by
the state.  Commissioner Sims felt there was no choice but to grant the
request since they had a second primary in August.  Motion by Commissioner
Streater, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve the budget amendment.
Vice Chair Jones asked County Manager Wease where the money would come from
with County Manager Wease answering fund balance.  Vice Chair Jones then
asked if this was money we owe someone now and if so, who did we owe.
County Manager Wease noted that he understands the money was spent for
precinct officials and overtime.  Vice Chair Jones then asked if the checks
had cleared with County Manager Wease answering if not today, he assumes
they will soon.  Mr. Baucom noted that they have tried to work closely with
finance on the matter and that the bills were there but have not been paid.
 Shelley Maness, Finance Officer, voiced that she thinks this is a
projection of what they need to complete the year.  Ms. Maness noted they
are holding some bills and some line items may be over spent.  Vice Chair
Jones asked if this was the first time fund balance had been raided with
Ms. Maness answering no.  County Manager Wease offered to check and get
back with Board members.  Vice Chair Jones voiced that this was another
case of appropriating money we don't have and remembers the solemn oath at
budget time to stay away from fund balance.  Commissioner Streater withdrew
his motion until the next meeting in order to receive more information.
Ms. Maness stated they have done a budget revision to sort of rob peter to
pay Paul.  Commissioner Smith withdrew his second.  Chairman Woodburn noted
the item would be tabled until the January meeting in order that the
question from Vice Chair Jones could be answered.  Commissioner Sims felt
that it would still be mandatory.  Chairman Woodburn asked Board members if
they wanted to meet with the Board of Elections in closed session at this
time.  Mr. Baucom voiced they could wait until the Board goes in closed
session at the end of the meeting.

      Stan Vance:  Mr. Vance thanked the Board for allowing him a chance to
speak.  Mr. Vance asked for confirmation that the Board was willing to have
a reval for 2007, stating he needs to plan his schedule.  Commissioner Sims
stated that a four-year reval might be good for revenues for Anson County
government but feels a four-year revaluation was not good for taxpayers of
Anson County.  Motion by Commissioner Sims, seconded by Commissioner
Streater, that we go back to the previous number of years for revaluation,
which I believe is 8.  Vice Chair Jones was of the opinion that we need a
revaluation as soon as possible.  Chairman Woodburn felt that citizens have
already experienced sticker shock from an eight-year revaluation and felt
it would be less after a four-year revaluation.  Commissioner Sims asked
Mr. Vance if, in his opinion, taxpayers of the county would pay more in two
fours or one eight with Mr. Vance feeling it would equal out to be the
same.  Commissioner Sims commented that revaluation would cost a great deal
of money with Mr. Vance noting that there are ways he could save a great
deal of money.  Commissioner Sims then asked Mr. Vance if there was some
savings by staying with eight years.  Mr. Vance explained that the 5th and
7th year after revaluation, utilities can challenge the sales ratio if we
drop below 90%.  Mr. Vance stated that we are already at 85%.  Mr. Vance
further explained that that means we are going to have to adjust our rate
to the utilities, meaning they are on at 100% now and in the 5th year their
ratio would drop to whatever the ratio is at that time.  Mr. Vance noted
that revaluation would bring in more money from the utilities if we do
revaluation every four years.  Commissioner Lear voiced that that was his
understanding earlier and the reason he favors accelerating revaluation.
Commissioner Sims voiced that he was forgetful of the utilities but feels
the taxpayer will pay higher taxes in a four-year revaluation but noted
that he would be in agreement if this could be offset by the money
recuperated from utilities.   Commissioner Sims stated that we just had a
revaluation a couple of years ago and we just experienced the highest tax
rate we've had in recent history and asked how revaluation helped.
Chairman Woodburn stated that property values have increased to the extent
that the time frame had gone by and we saw the actual increase in the
property.  Chairman Woodburn noted that the year of revaluation the tax
rate was reduced to offset the increase but the taxpayer still received a
higher bill because of the swing in the value of the property.
Commissioner Sikes asked the cost of the revaluation.  Mr. Vance stated the
proposed cost was $500,000, noting it normally takes two years to complete
a revaluation.  Mr. Vance explained that we have a short time frame in
which to get the funds and get started.  Mr. Vance noted that he could
shift funds under the current budget and save approximately $200,000.
Commissioner Sims asked Mr. Vance to tell him how an individual taxpayer,
living in Anson County, would be improved by a four-year revaluation.  Mr.
Vance answered that if we do a total remeasure, everyone will be paying
only on what they own.  Mr. Vance stated that the last revaluation was what
he called a windshield revaluation, which was done very fast and on a low
budget.  Mr. Vance feels that everyone was not treated equal in the last
revaluation, noting there are properties out there that dropped through the
cracks.  Mr. Vance noted that they are correcting errors as found.
Commissioner Smith asked if citizens did not have to obtain building
permits with Mr. Vance answering yes.  Vice Chair Jones felt there were
many unknown variables that need answers before making a commitment to go
to four from eight and favored amending the motion to appoint a committee
of three Commissioners with Commissioner Sims serving as Chair.
Commissioner Sims voiced that he did not wish to serve as chair of such
committee.  Vice Chair Jones then recommended a committee of Commissioner
Sikes, Commissioner Sims and Chairman Woodburn with Chairman Woodburn
appointing the chair of the committee.  Vice Chair Jones asked that the
committee report back to the Board at the January meeting with specifics as
to the cost, advantages, etc.  Commissioner Smith then asked the motion on
the floor.  Chairman Woodburn stated that the original motion was to return
to the previous number of years for revaluation, which was eight years.
Vice Chair Jones asked to modify his motion to make the report due at the
February meeting.  Vice Chair Jones felt that Mr. Vance should be commended
for bringing the matter before the Board and felt the Board should study
the matter further before making a decision.  Commissioner Sims asked if a
committee of four would be violating the open meeting rule with County
Manager Wease answering that all meetings would have to be advertised.  At
this point, Commissioner Sims withdrew his motion.   County Manager Wease
then voiced that a public committee of this type should make notice of
their meetings.  Motion by Vice Chair Jones, seconded by Commissioner Sims,
that the Chairman be given authority to appoint a committee of three, to
include as many Commissioners as he sees fit, and if he sees fit to include
members of the public, to research the merits of revaluation and the
various expenses involved and report back to the Commission at the February
meeting with its findings and recommendations.  Vice Chair Jones felt this
would give a quorum for the County Manager and the Assessor.  Vice Chair
Jones felt that the County Manager and the Assessor did not have to be a
part of the committee but should be available to the committee.  Motion
carried unanimously.

      Consent Agenda:   Chairman Woodburn noted that the County Manager had
given each Board member a copy of the tax releases that were to be added to
the Consent Agenda.   Motion by Commissioner Lear, seconded by Vice Chair
Jones, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.  Motion carried
unanimously.

      Minutes:  Approved minutes of regular meetings dated October 11,
2004, November 1, 2004 and November 17, 2004, and two closed session
minutes dated November 1, 2004.
      Budget Report:  The cash position of the general fund continues to
improve as we move through the fiscal year. Departments are operating
within the established budgetary parameters.
      Budget Amendments:  The amendment for $13,787 provides additional
funding for SPCC for HVAC work done on a building at the Polkton campus.
The financial official at SPCC assures us that the project was bid.
                                  AMENDMENT
                  Anson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004/05
      BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY
2004/05 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:
      Section 1.  General Fund Expenditures:
            Increase:  11-5921                     $ 13,787
                 Total Increase                          $ 13,787
      Section 2.  General Fund Revenues:
            Increase:  11-4110 (Fund Balance Approp.)    $ 13,787
                 Total Increase                          $ 13,787
      Adopted this 6th day of December, 2004.

      ADM Drawdown for Board of Education:   Approves a request for $20,000
in ADM funding that will go to match a grant that Dr. Truman has secured to
provide additional connectivity technology for the school system.  The
$20,000 will leverage an additional $4 in grant funding for each ADM
dollar.  There is ample ADM funding based on our projections for receipts
this year and our anticipated need of $150,000 for debt service payments
later this fiscal year.
                                  AMENDMENT
                  Anson County Budget Ordinance FY 2004/05
      BE IT ORDAINED by the Anson County Board of Commissioners that the FY
2004/05 Budget Ordinance be amended as follows:
      Section 1. General Fund Expenditures:
            Increase:  11-5915                     $ 20,000
                 Total Increase                          $ 20,000
      Section 2.  General Fund Revenues:
            Increase:  11-5915                     $ 20,000
                 Total Increase                          $ 20,000
      Adopted this 6th day of December, 2004.

      Administrative Matters:
      Property Acquisition-Sewer Easement ( Kitty Bennett Heirs)  County
Manager Wease noted this was the matter discussed in closed session at the
last meeting.  County Manager Wease stated that he circulated a copy of the
response from the engineering company to each Board member wherein they
state that they do not feel responsible for the difference between the
asking price and the appraised value.  County Manager Wease stated there
was room in the public meeting law to discuss this matter in executive
session.  Chairman Woodburn noted a closed session planned for the end of
the meeting.  County Manager Wease noted there were three opportunities for
closed session which would be this item, a request from the Board of
Elections and an Economic Development request and all three could be
discussed with the same closed session.  Vice Chair Jones asked if Mr.
Little had seen a copy of the response with County Manager Wease answering
that he had not given him a copy nor did he tell him that was the direction
of the Board.  Vice Chair Jones favored carrying this matter to the end of
the meeting for the closed session.

      Merit Policy:   Commissioner Sims voiced that everyone knows there
has been some public concerns over the number and amount of merit pay,
reclassifications, etc.  Commissioner Sims feels the Personnel Ordinance
gives that authority to the County Manager as it was reinforced in 1990 and
he believes this is where it belongs.  Commissioner Sims was of the opinion
that matters such as this brought before the Board of Commissioners would
only involve such things as political, partisan, geographical and all kinds
of biases and concerns.  Commissioner Sims feels that since the Board of
Commissioners does not observe employees on a daily basis they could not
evaluate the effectiveness or merit of their work.  Commissioner Sims feels
it is the responsibility of the Board of Commissioners to be concerned and
knowledgeable and to be informed on matters of revenues and expenditures,
particularly in dire economic times.  Commissioner Sims stated that he
would like to recommend that the Board consider doing the following and
then leave it in the County Manager's hand from that point.  Commissioner
Sims stated that he was not talking about promotions or certification but
rather merit pay.  Commissioner Sims stated that promotion was a movement
to a higher position and by legal definition is associated with higher pay.
 Commissioner Sims stated that in talking of merit pay, he would recommend
suspension of any further merit pay for this year beginning as of December
6 and is not to be retroactive.  Commissioner Sims further stated that in
future years, merit pay raises should not exceed in a single year, and may
be less than, 5% of the total work force and that the amount of any merit
raise may be lower but not to exceed 3% of an individual's salary.
Commissioner Sims stated that all matters of reclassification be
specifically factual and documented and that they should never be used as a
substitute for merit pay.  Commissioner Sims stated that reclassification
is vague and he does not want to get it involved with merit pay nor does he
want it to be used for merit pay.  Commissioner Sims stated that a folder
is to be kept in the County Manager's office with the names and
documentation of each raise and that it be made available immediately for
perusal by any or all Commissioners at anytime.  Commissioner Sims stated
that finally, any extraordinary situations in terms of merit pay might be
brought before the Board of Commissioners at a special regular meeting for
their approval or denial.  Commissioner Streater asked Commissioner Sims
what he meant by reclassification.  Commissioner Sims stated the definition
of reclassification as follows:  the assignment of an existing position
from one class to another based on changes in job contents such as duty,
kind, difficulty, required skill, responsibility of the work being
preformed.  Commissioner Sims stated again that he does not want
reclassification to be used as a substitute for merit pay so when we have
reclassification, he wants exact documentation and actual classification.
Commissioner Sims feels the County Manager would have no problem doing
this.  Commissioner Smith stated that his position is the matter is out of
hand and stated that according to the Personnel Ordinance, the County
Manager was to report these matters to the Board and he did not do his
duty.  Commissioner Smith stated that the Board was responsible for any and
all monies and the operation of the county.  Commissioner Streater,
referring to reclassification, agreed documentation was needed so that
someone could not just say they added new duties to someone in order to
reclassify.  Commissioner Sims again stated that he is trying to say that
we do not want reclassification to become a substitute for merit pay.
Commissioner Sims noted that he was not saying that this is what is
happening but he was just trying to make a situation work in times of dire
economic circumstances that will be fair to our employees and fair to the
taxpayers.  Vice Chair Jones asked the County Manager for the number of
employees with County Manager Wease answering there were a little over 250
full time employees.  Commissioner Sims stated it could be rounded to 12
people and no more but could be less.  Vice Chair Jones asked if the 5% had
to do with personnel not amount of income with Commissioner Sims answering
yes.  Vice Chair Jones stated that under the motion by Commissioner Sims,
12 people or less could receive a merit pay during the year.  Vice Chair
Jones asked if they could receive more than one merit pay increase during
the year with Commissioner Sims stating he did not include that but was of
the opinion there would be only one.  Commissioner Smith stated that
everything was already covered in the policy but the County Manager failed
to report the matter to the Board.  Commissioner Sims stated he would be
open to hearing a better plan but he did not want employees to lose merit
pay nor did he want it to be an issue about the County Manager.
Commissioner Streater asked if it would be the same 5 people each year as
according to the information, it is currently the same people every year.
Commissioner Sims felt this was something the Board would address as they
look as the various records and documentation, and it could be brought up
at any time.   Commissioner Sims stated that he has not done any
retroactive study but he did look at the merit pay raises for this year and
they are some of the finest and best employees we have and he'd hate to
lose a single one of them.  Commissioner Smith voiced that he did not want
taxes to go up on account of raising someone's salary when the whole
economy is off.  Commissioner Sims voiced that he just reduced the amount
of merit pay in terms of people by about 80%.  Commissioner Streater stated
that since adoption of the budget and the tax rate was raised 9.9-cents, it
seems that $171,000 worth of raises has been given.  Commissioner Sims felt
that also included the cost of living with Commissioner Streater noting
there was no cost of living but rather a $500 bonus.  Commissioner Sims
felt that was included in the amount given with Commissioner Streater
feeling it was not.  County Manager Wease assured Board members that
$171,000 worth of raises had not been awarded to employees this year.
Chairman Woodburn stated he did the math and came up with $24,000 in actual
merit increases.  Commissioner Streater stated that the Board was told
there were no raises in the budget adopted by the Board but feels there
were raises in the budget.  Commissioner Streater voiced that he thought
Commissioner Lear asked that question and was told no and that we needed to
cut $250,000 from the budget.  Commissioner Sims stated that his
recommendation is to suspend raises for the remainder of the year.
Commissioner Streater then asked if this could be extended at the end of
the year if that was the desire of the Board with Commissioner Sims feeling
that at the beginning of next year the guidelines presented would be used.
Commissioner Lear asked if there was a motion on the floor with Chairman
Woodburn stating he was not sure if there was a motion but there had been
no second.  Commissioner Sims then offered this as a motion, stating it was
a significant reduction in the totals and amount of merit pay but at the
same time it leaves an opportunity for our employees that meet high
standards to have merit pay and to continue to be rewarded for
extraordinary performance.  Commissioner Lear offered a second to the
motion.  Vice Chair Jones voiced that he inquired of Commissioner Sims how
many this would leave and he said no more than 12.  Commissioner Sims
stated that his wording was no more than 5% of the workforce or less but
the max would be 12.  Vice Chair Jones stated that last year, if this paper
writing is representation of this year, there was 17 merit raises.
Commissioner Streater voiced that this was just since July.  Vice Chair
Jones noted there were 17 and if this was typical, they could assume there
would be 34 during the year.  Vice Chair Jones stated that it did not seem
to him that 12 from 17 was much of a reduction but 12 from 34 was a good
reduction.  Commissioner Sims voiced that the only reason he mentioned
reducing the numbers was because we are in serious economic times and in
fact, we are broke and we just had a 9.9-cent tax increase.  Vice Chair
Jones voiced that the motion not only said that we could restrict the
County Manager to no more than 5% but then, each employee receiving the
merit pay could receive only one a year of no more than 3% of their salary.
 Commissioner Lear stated he did not hear that in the motion but wanted it
included.  Commissioner Sims said that his motion was to accept the
recommendations given.  Commissioner Streater asked Commissioner Sims if he
was proposing that it be suspended for the rest of the year.  Commissioner
Sims offered that the taxpayers received a 9.9-cent increase in dire
economic circumstances and we have a fund balance below the state
requirements.  Commissioner Sims stated that the other side of the issue is
that for extraordinary performance and to keep certain workers, which in
the long run will save money, we have got to have some kind of merit system
for our workers.  Commissioner Sims offered that he was just changing it
and making it a little more restrictive and leaving it to the County
Manager to do it under these circumstances.  Commissioner Streater then
asked that once the merit raises start back next year, if the Commissioners
would be informed as they were given.  Commissioner Sims feels that rather
than informing Commissioner's individually or as a group, a folder with the
information would be available to Board members any day they wish to go
look and if the Commissioner has a serious concern, he can bring that
before the Board.   Commissioner Sims feels that discussion of the matter
at each Board meeting would create animosity between workers.  Vice Chair
Jones asked if The Anson Record would be entitled to look at the
information contained in the folder.  Commissioner Sims stated it was
public record but did not know any reason they would want to look at it
each month.  Vice Chair Jones asked if there was anything in the motion
that would restrict the right of the press or any member of the public from
looking at the folder.  Commissioner Sims voiced that legally he could not
do that.  County Manager Wease explained that personnel laws govern what
documents could and could not be seen by the general public.   Vice Chair
Jones asked the County Manager if, under our existing law, the folder was
prepared as contemplated by the motion, would the press be entitled to look
at it.  County Manager Wease answered that it depends on the contents of
the folder.  County Manager Wease stated that if it has the employee name,
title, date of their last pay raise and the amount, those items are public
record.  County Manager Wease noted that the documentation as to why the
raise was given would not be public information.  Commissioner Sims asked
if that information would be available to Commissioners with County Manager
Wease answering it could be available to Commissioners but it would not be
public information.  Vice Chair Jones then asked if at any time any member
of the public and/or the press could consult the folder and know what we
are paying all our employees and whether or not they received a merit
raise.  Commissioner Sims stated that he is speaking specifically to merit
raises.  Vice Chair Jones asked if only merit raises would be in the folder
with Commissioner Sims answering that was his thought.  Commissioner Smith
was of the opinion there was nothing in the law to withhold information
about these salaries from the public nor the press as it was taxpayers
dollars.  Chairman Woodburn said salary information was public information
but documentation was private.  Commissioner Sikes stated that he would
like to know about raises before they happen as afterwards was too late.
Commissioner Smith noted that in the budget, it was agreed to give all
employees $500 for Christmas along with all these raises and asked what
that amounted to in dollars and cents.  Commissioner Smith stated he wanted
to let the people know that was why the taxes went up.  Chairman Woodburn
felt that was not a correct statement but there was a $500 bonus in lieu of
giving increases.  Commissioner Streater was of the opinion some employees
received a raise at budget time and asked if they were still getting the
$500.  Rita James, Data Processing Manager, noted the total amount of
bonuses was $116,000 and was not just general fund dollars.  Commissioner
Streater again asked if those folks that received a raise at budget time
would also receive the $500 with County Manager Wease answering that at
present, all full time employees would receive the $500 bonus.  Vice Chair
Jones voiced that for history sake, eighteen months ago while discussing
the 2004/05 budget, he made a motion that did not receive a second that
those people that had received a merit raise would not get a cost of living
raise.  Vice Chair Jones felt it was good that the Board was bringing some
reality to this as this is a bunch of money and felt that Board needed to
air this out and make sure anyone that wants to know what is going on has a
simple easy logical way to find it out and as Commissioner Sikes suggested,
we need to get a hold to controlling this money.  Vice Chair Jones noted
this was a management tool and that if the Board gets involved in whether
or not to award them, we take the management tool away form the County
Manager and feels the Board does not intend to do that.  Chairman Woodburn
agreed the Board needed to look at this and have controls in place and let
the County Manager work within the guidelines.  Commissioner Streater
stated that he favors the motion by Commissioner Sims but would like to go
back to the motion that Vice Chair Jones made during budget discussion that
did not receive a second.  Commissioner Sims voiced that he wanted to make
it clear that he feels the County Manager has followed the Personnel
Ordinance he was working under and has done nothing wrong, he is just
making it a little different.  Chairman Woodburn voiced that on several
occasions the Board has heard from the Sheriff about his problems in trying
to retain deputies, and we have problems retaining nurses and others at DSS
but feels part of what is happening is we are trying to be competitive with
those around us.  Commissioner Streater was of the opinion that we can't
compete with Richmond or Union counties.  Chairman Woodburn agreed that we
couldn't but feels we need to make an effort to keep employees.  Chairman
Woodburn feels we will pay one way or another either in training or
retraining.  Commissioner Sims wanted to make it clear that there are areas
such as the water department, sewer and law enforcement where they have
areas of certification and he did not get into that.  Commissioner Sikes
was of the opinion that working with 9-1-1 was the most demanding job in
county government and feels they are the most underpaid.  Commissioner
Sikes stated they are short handed and are either having to pay overtime or
take money from their part-time line item and they will run short of funds
in their part time salary and asked the Board to look at this area.
Commissioner Sims restated his motion as follows:  we suspend any further
merit increases for the remainder of this fiscal year which is July 2004 to
June 30, 2005, and that is not a retroactive statement, and that in the
future beginning with July 1, 2005, that merit raises in a single year
should not exceed and may be lower than 5% of the total workforce, and if
you have a fraction I assume you go with the higher portion of the fraction
as to how you decide and that the amount of any merit increase may be lower
but not to exceed 3% of the individual's salary and that all
reclassifications be specifically documented and be extremely factual and
that we never use reclassification, and I assume we never have but there
are people concerned about reclassification, that they never be used as a
substitute for merit pay and that a folder be kept in the County Manager's
office, and I'll improve on this, with the names and the information for
each merit raise and documentation for each merit raise be made available
for perusal by any Commissioner immediately at any and all times and it is
my understanding that it would be available to anyone except for the
documentation portion.  Commissioner Streater asked if that information
would be available to Commissioners with County Manager Wease answering
yes.  Commissioner Sims further added that any extraordinary situation, and
we may have one at 9-1-1, may be brought before the Board of Commissioners
at a special or regular meeting for their approval or denial.  Commissioner
Sims noted that he would not want the new procedure to keep us from
retaining someone that was highly important and that would cost us more
money to hire their replacement than to keep the employee.  Commissioner
Sikes asked if the motion would allow Commissioners to review and give a
raise.  Commissioner Sims stated that if anyone felt they had an
extraordinary situation they could bring it before the Board, that being
any Commissioner or the County Manager and they could approve or deny.
Chairman Woodburn called for a second to the motion.  Commissioner Streater
offered a second.  Vice Chair Jones stated that the motion did not include
the restriction of one merit pay per person per fiscal year.  Commissioner
Sims asked the Clerk to include in the motion one merit raise per person
per fiscal year.  Commissioner Sims voiced that he probably made everyone
mad with him but he was trying to say to the taxpayers that he understands
their hurt and he does not want the workers to lose all their benefits.
Commissioner Smith asked County Attorney Randall if the motion would cause
an amendment to the Personnel Ordinance with the Attorney answering yes.
Motion carried 6 to 1 with Commissioner Smith opposed.    Commissioner
Streater referred to training and asked if someone were to take a class or
a first aid course would they get a raise.  Commissioner Sims was not sure
how it would work but knows that in places such as waste treatment there
are certain levels of certification based on training.  Mr. Bennett stated
that social workers at DSS start out in a work against position and once
they have completed their training and because they are part of the state
personnel, they have to be paid at the next highest level once training is
complete.  Vice Chair Jones asked the Clerk to provide at least to him, if
not all members of the Board, a copy of the motion and resolution at her
first convenience.  County Manager Wease stated that along with Vice Chair
Jones suggestion, he would begin drafting a policy that reflects what
Commissioner Sims has outlined for the Board to consider before moving
forward July 1 of next year.

      School Board Request for Sewer Connection:  County Manager Wease
noted that he talked with the Superintendent of Education about their
project wherein they want to tie their truck wash at the School Bus Garage
into the public sewer system.  County Manager Wease noted they are asking
the Board of Commissioners to consider waiving the tap fee and all cost
associated with such.  County Manager Wease noted that in talking with
Vance Gulledge, Utilities Director, he estimates the cost to be between
$1200 and $1400.  County Manager Wease explained that school officials will
get the line to the meter and the cost to the county will be time and
material.  Motion by Commissioner Streater, seconded by Commissioner Sims,
to approve.  Motion carried 6 to 1 with Vice Chair Jones opposed.

      Commissioner Concerns:
      Commissioner Streater:  Commissioner Streater stated that the issue
of step and grade had been taken care of and asked that his other item be
continued due to the fact that the person having the information was not
present.

      Commissioner Sims:  Commissioner Sims offered that several days ago,
concerned citizens asked him why the ambulance and EMT's were no longer
located in Polkton.  Commissioner Sims stated that, not knowing anything
about it, he called County Manager Wease.  Commissioner Sims stated that he
was informed by the County Manager that this was an issue taken by
management and was to assist in cost savings.  Commissioner Sims referred
to the rapid growth of the western end of Anson County and feels the
relocation of the ambulance and EMT's from Polkton will affect Polkton,
Peachland, areas of White Store, Ansonville and Burnsville.  Commissioner
Sims, in stating you can't value a persons life, offered a motion that the
EMT's and ambulance be returned to their station in Polkton and offered as
information that he understands one of the problems in cost was the six
miles in returning the ambulance from Wadesboro to Polkton each time.
Commissioner Sims asked Board members to keep in mind that if you go past
Polkton six miles you even out.  Commissioner Smith asked if the
Commissioners took this away with Commissioner Sims stating that citizens
think the Commissioners did this.  Commissioner Smith said that Mr. Naylor
was in the audience and asked Board members if they wanted to hear from
him.  Commissioner Streater asked the hours the ambulance stayed in
Polkton.  Vice Chair Jones stated he wanted to know how many units were up
there and how often and how much has been saved by moving it.  Commissioner
Lear offered a second to the motion for discussion.  Chairman Woodburn was
of the opinion that the matter was reported at either the last meeting or
the meeting before with no action taken by the Board.  Commissioner Sims
voiced that he did not remember hearing this.  Mr. Naylor stated that the
matter was presented to the EMS Advisory Committee as the unit was not
really serving a purpose.  Mr. Naylor stated that the unit ran 25% of the
time and 75% of the time Wadesboro ran.  Mr. Naylor stated that the unit
was leaving Polkton and coming to Wadesboro every two hours or so.  Mr.
Naylor stated they spend more time running from Polkton to Wadesboro than
they did actually running calls.  Mr. Naylor noted that Burnsville has an
ambulance that is a paramedic level service and Ansonville has an ambulance
that runs an intermediate service that can be called when needed.  Mr.
Naylor stated that most of the time when the Wadesboro unit was gone this
unit had to run all the way on the other side of Lilesville and they felt
that by housing both units in Wadesboro it would be a cost savings.  Mr.
Naylor said that the majority of their calls are out of county calls and
when a unit is gone for a transfer to Charlotte, they are gone for four to
five hours a day and they were having to pull the Polkton unit to Wadesboro
to cover.  Commissioner Streater asked what would happen if the unit were
called to Ansonville and there was a call in McFarlan.  Commissioner Sims
noted there was no ambulance in his general area covering the western part
of the county.  Mr. Naylor responded that Burnsville and Ansonville both
have an ambulance that are certified by the state.  Mr. Naylor stated that
Polkton has one that has not been certified by the state but they have a
truck for first responders.  Mr. Naylor stated that all areas are served by
first responders.  Vice Chair Jones asked the dollar figure on the savings
with Mr. Naylor stating that he could not give the amount as far as fuel
and maintenance but they shut down the phone line, DSL line and they are no
longer paying the fire department to be there.  Vice Chair Jones asked if
there were any savings in personnel with Mr. Naylor answering no.  County
Manager Wease asked if there had been an impact to response time with Mr.
Naylor stating none that they have noticed.  Vice Chair Jones asked when
the Rescue Squad kicks in on it's part with Mr. Naylor noting they are put
on stand by once there is no unit available in the county.  Vice Chair
Jones asked if Rescue would not be put on stand by with only one unit in
the county with Mr. Naylor answering no, noting Rescue does not have
adequate personnel in the daytime.  Commissioner Smith asked if it was more
centralized now with Mr. Naylor answering yes.  Commissioner Lear asked if
the major expense was operating the phone line and DLS with Mr. Naylor
adding that bringing the truck back and forth was included in the major
expense.  Commissioner Lear withdrew his second.  Commissioner Sims offered
that he was just trying to do the best he could for his community and if
someone dies and that four to five minutes would have made a difference
they would let them know.  Chairman Woodburn noted the motion died for lack
of a second.

      Commissioner Sikes:  Commissioner Sikes noted that he had his say
earlier.

      Chairman Woodburn called for a short break before handling the closed
session.

      Closed Session:  County Manager Wease suggested holding the Economic
Development portion to last and hearing from the Board of Elections first,
Economic Development second and property acquisition last.  Commissioner
Smith referred to pages 44 to 49 in the Agenda packet and asked the County
Manager if the computer could make those pages like page 50.  County
Manager Wease noted that was not a problem and he could change the size of
the print.  Motion by Vice Chair Jones , seconded by Commissioner Smith, to
go into executive session for the reason indicated earlier at the Agenda
call.   Motion carried unanimously.

      Motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Vice Chair Jones, to go out
of closed session.  Motion carried unanimously.

      Chairman Woodburn asked the pleasure of the Board on the request from
the Board of Elections.  Commissioner Smith asked County Manager Wease if
the Board of Election employees were covered in the $500 bonus with County
Manager Wease answering yes.  Commissioner Smith noted that since they were
covered, he offered a motion that we consider this promotion at the end of
the period that was suggested previously by this Board that we hold down
raises until such time which will be June 30, 2005.  Vice Chair Jones
offered a second to the motion which carried unanimously.  Chairman
Woodburn offered that the Board recognizes the work of the Board of
Election but the matter will be taken into consideration at whatever point
in time in the future is appropriate.

      Motion by Vice Chair Jones that the Anson County Board of
Commissioners approve a grant amount of 10% to NCEMC for the project as set
out in Mr. Gullette's memorandum of December 6, 2004 and further that we
extend to six years the time for their participation in the grant.
Commissioner Sims voiced that this was a huge and important endeavor for
Anson County and it might be the single largest investment ever in Anson
County and we don't want to lose it.  Motion seconded by Commissioner Sims
and carried unanimously.

      Motion by Vice Chair Jones that the County Manager be given the
authority to correspond with R. E. Little, III and give him the position of
the Commissioners and that the position be that we would offer him the
highest of the two appraisals we've got and further that the County Manager
avail Mr. Little of copies of these appraisals and further that Mr. Little
be given a copy of the letter from Hobbs Upchurch where they set out their
position on this regard.  Motion seconded by Commissioner Streater and
carried unanimously.

      Chairman Woodburn apologized for the oversight and welcomed
Commissioner Sikes to the Board.

      Motion by Vice Chair Jones, seconded by Commissioner Streater, to
adjourn.  Commissioner Streater asked Board members to consider setting
their calendar for next year at the next meeting.  Chairman Woodburn
mentioned the next meeting, which County Manager Wease pointed out was
scheduled for Tuesday, January 4, 2005.  Motion carried unanimously.

                                        Respectfully submitted:



                                        Bonnie M. Huntley, CMC
                                        Clerk to the Board


Meeting time:  3 hrs. 10 mins.