Board of Commissioners

Town of Swansboro Board of Commissioners June 10, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes In attendance: Mayor William Justice, Commissioner Pat Turner, Commissioner Douglas Eckendorf and Commissioner Tamara Pieratti. Mayor Pro Tem Jeffrey Conaway and Commissioner Joseph Brown were absent. ********************************** Call to Order/Opening Prayer/Pledge The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm and Mayor Justice led the Pledge of Allegiance. Public Comment Citizens were offered an opportunity to address the Board regarding items listed on the agenda. No comments were made. Adoption of Agenda and Consent Items On a motion by Commissioner Eckendorf, seconded by Commissioner Pieratti, the consent items below and the agenda as amended to remove items V a. Extra Territorial Jurisdiction Expansion/Re-zoning Request for 106 Belgrade Swansboro Road and V b. Re-zoning Request/1476 W. Corbett Avenue were unanimously approved. - Budget Ordinance Amendment #2025-11 - Audit Contract with Gregory T. Redman, CPA (July 1, 2024, through June 30,2025) Public Hearing FY 2025/2026 Budget Ordinance, Tax Rate, Stormwater Ordinance, Fee Schedule, and Salary Schedules Town Manager Jon Barlow presented the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget and associated documents, highlighting several significant items influencing the budget. These included a 1.5% cost of living increase and up to a 1.5% merit increase for employees, a 0.75% increase in the North Carolina Retirement System employer contribution rate, and an estimated 10% rate rise for property, liability, and workers' compensation insurance. Additionally, there was a 15% decrease in health insurance costs due to switching to Blue Cross Blue Shield. The budget allots $50,000 for a land use plan update, $15,000 for a special election, $5,000 for UDO amendments codification, $16,000 for part-time Parks and Recreation staff, a public safety salary study implementation cost of $136,000, and capital outlay for two police cars funded with loan proceeds at $104,000. Capital projects totaled $900,000, including a $500,000 grant application for sidewalk construction. Town Manager Barlow noted that the budget was balanced with $634,672 from the fund balance, covering $150,000 for pickleball courts, $250,000 for Project Coffee Economic Development Incentive Grant, and $234,672 for other operational expenses. Several items Page 1 of 5 were not funded, such as additional fire department personnel, EMS services, and various capital outlay components. The current tax rate remained at $0.35 per $100 valuation, where one cent on the tax rate generates about $72,554 in revenue. Total general fund expenditures and revenues were balanced at $7,242,454. The general fund balance had been consistent over the past five years, with a fund balance policy at 50%, potentially reducing to 44% if all the assigned balance was used next year. Town Manager Barlow elaborated on the Stormwater Enterprise Fund, which was self- supporting with a $60 fee per residential unit, raising about $157,574. He proposed removing the $5 early payment credit due to debt service increases for the JetVac truck. Regarding solid waste, the contract with GFL maintained current rates, even with a 2.8% increase in GFL's charges to the town. The public hearing was opened at 6:15 pm and the following individuals spoke. Jamie Petani of 2102 Holly Hills Court shared her concerns about the $50,000 allocation for land use development, indicating she did not recall when it was voted on. Vicki Brown of 601 W. Broad Street inquired if the fire department's budget of approximately $1.6 million included a large ladder truck. Constance Crocker of 111 Jones Road asked for clarification on the $250,000 loan for Project Coffee mentioned in the agenda packet. Wayne Herbert of 102 Oyster Bay Road inquired about the $213,000 not approved in the fire budget. Junior Freeman of 714 W. Corbett Avenue spoke regarding fire department budgeting, specifically questioning the necessity and expense of acquiring a ladder truck considering existing equipment and limitations within the town. The public hearing was closed at 6:26 pm. Following the public hearing, the board discussed potential amendments to the budget: ● Removal of the $50,000 allocation for the CAMA land use plan update. ● Adjustment to the fire department funding from the county, with the county committing to $302,865 instead of the initially projected $491,847. Town Manager Barlow explained that removing the $50,000 for the land use plan would reduce the planning department budget and the fund balance appropriation. He also noted that the change in county fire funding would increase the fund balance appropriation by $188,982 to balance the budget. On a motion by Commissioner Eckendorf, seconded by Commissioner Turner, the FY 2025/2026 Budget Ordinance, Tax Rate ($0.35/$100), Stormwater Ordinance Fee Schedule, and Salary Schedules with the removal of $50,000 for the CAMA Land Use Plan Update Page 2 of 5 and adjustment to the Onslow County Fire funding at a difference of $188,982 was unanimously approved. Business Non-Consent Future Agenda Topics Future agenda items were shared for visibility and comments. In addition, an opportunity was provided for the Board to introduce items of interest and subsequent direction for placement on future agendas. No new items were added, however, with no business scheduled it was recommended to cancel the July 8th regular meeting. Public Comment Lisa Maness Prakash of 532 Sabiston Drive expressed concerns about rezonings and its impact on traffic and infrastructure. She mentioned a citizen group called Common Sense Swansboro that had collected over 1,000 signatures on a petition to pause growth and protect lands. Terri Herbert of 102 Oyster Bay Road shared comments from social media regarding concerns about overdevelopment, traffic, and the loss of Swansboro's small-town feel. She emphasized the need for responsible growth and infrastructure planning. Jamie Petani of 2102 Holly Hills Court raised issues about traffic problems, police department staffing, and garbage collection concerns. She also inquired about the fire department's activity during a recent event. Meredith Meilleur of 220 River Reach Drive defended the land use plan process for the update that occurred in 2019. She emphasized the diverse stakeholder participation and the community's desire to protect Swansboro's character while managing growth thoughtfully. Constance Crocker of 111 Jones Road in Hubert suggested implementing measures to prevent left turns at specific intersections to reduce accidents. She also stressed the need for infrastructure planning and inquired about the details of Project Coffee. Vicki Brown of 601 Broad Street shared her thoughts on the importance of supporting economic growth while maintaining Swansboro's charm. She suggested considering conditional uses for B1 zoning to better control development types and stressed the need for attractive businesses that support both citizens and visitors. Wayne Herbert of 102 Oyster Bay Road emphasized the importance of considering all citizens' voices in development decisions. He urged the board to be cautious about changing Swansboro and to prioritize the opinions of current residents. Joyce Johnson of 195 Peninsula Manor Road in Hubert, stressed the importance of collaboration between Swansboro and surrounding areas. She expressed concerns about Page 3 of 5 overdevelopment and its impact on the area's appeal to both current and potential residents. Tim Vannoy of 105 Cormorant Drive, spoke on concerns about the appearance of the former ABC store and car wash, requesting information on cleanup efforts and prevention of similar situations in the future. Renee Isley of Nags Head North Carolina identified herself as a potential returnee to the area and expressed disappointment in the changes occurring in Swansboro. She emphasized the need for responsible development to maintain the town's appeal for future generations. Manager's Comments Town Manager Barlow reported on the funding approval for the culvert replacement project on Highway 24 in front of the VFW across from Shore Drive. He stated that the total project cost was $3,140,000, with work expected to begin in fiscal year 2027. Barlow noted that the Department of Transportation is actively acquiring the right of way to make the project possible. Board Comments Commissioners expressed gratitude to both the staff and the public for their involvement and emphasized the value of public input. They also encouraged continued community engagement with the Board and highlighted the need for addressing the cleanup of the former ABC store site. Commissioner Doug Eckendorf acknowledged the need to balance growth with maintaining the town's character. He discussed the challenges of funding necessary projects and services while keeping taxes low. Eckendorf emphasized his commitment to public safety and explained his perspective on controlled growth to support town services. Mayor Justice apologized for the confusion caused by last-minute agenda changes and noted that the former ABC store had been notified to clean up by the second week of June. He discussed Project Coffee as a potentially beneficial development and ongoing efforts with county and state officials on issues like roads and fire services. He assured citizens that their input was valued and encouraged them to review his voting record and engage him in discussions about his positions. Closed Session On a motion by Commissioner Turner, seconded by Commissioner Eckendorf and with unanimous approval, the board entered closed session pursuant to NCGS 143-318.11 (a) (3) to consult with an attorney employed or retained by the public body in order to preserve the attorney‑client privilege between the attorney and the public body, which privilege was hereby acknowledged; and (5) to establish, or to instruct the public body's Page 4 of 5 staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating the price and other material terms of a contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease. Pursuant to a motion duly made and seconded in closed session the board returned to open session with nothing to report. Adjournment On a motion by Commissioner Turner, seconded by Commissioner Eckendorf, the meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm. Page 5 of 5  6/16/2025 Regular Meeting June 10, 2025 1 1. Please turn cell phones to “off” or “vibrate”. 2. The Board offers the public three opportunities to speak during the meeting: A comment period is offered at the beginning and end of the meeting. Please note that a separate opportunity is provided for those items requiring a public hearing. Public Hearing(s) – There are 3 public hearings scheduled for this meeting. 2 1  6/16/2025 PUBLIC COMMENT Citizen opportunity to address the Board for items listed on the agenda. 3 AGENDA AND CONSENT ITEMS Action Needed: Motion to Adopt the Agenda as prepared (or amended) and approval of the Consent Items 4 2  6/16/2025 PUBLIC HEARING Extra Territorial Jurisdiction Expansion/Re-zoning Request for 106 Belgrade Swansboro Road JOED, on behalf of property owner Linda Odum, has submitted an extra territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) expansion request in conjunction with a rezoning request. The property is currently zoned RA (through Onslow County zoning) and is requesting to be rezoned to B-1 (Highway Business) along the front of the property and MI (Light Industrial) along the rear (through Town of Swansboro zoning). The property is further identified as tax parcel ID 1313-3 and the total acreage requested is +/- 15.797 acres. Recommended Action: 1. Hold a public hearing; 2. Motion to approve or deny Ordinance 2025-O5 for extra territorial jurisdiction expansion and re-zoning request from RA (Rural/Agricultural) to B-1 (Highway Business) along the front of parcel and MI (Light Industrial) to the back of the parcel for 106 Belgrade Swansboro Road. Presenter: Rebecca Brehmer CFM, CZO – Town Planner 5 SITE MAP 6 3  6/16/2025 CAMA FUTURE LAND USE PLAN 7 ZONING MAP 8 4  6/16/2025 PUBLIC HEARING Re-zoning Request/1476 W. Corbett Avenue JOED, on behalf of property owner John Howell, has submitted a rezoning request for 1476 W. Corbett Avenue from RA (Rural/Agricultural) to B-1 (Highway Business) in the front of the property to MI (Light Industrial) in the rear of the property. The property is further identified as tax parcel ID 1312-114 and the total acreage requested for rezoning is +/- 30.880 acres. Recommended Action: 1. Hold a public hearing; 2. Motion to approve or deny Ordinance 2025-O6 to rezone 1476 W. Corbett Avenue from RA (Rural/Agricultural) to B-1 (Highway Business) along the front of the parcel and MI (Light Industrial) along the back of the parcel. Presenter: Rebecca Behmer, CFM, CZO– Town Planner 9 SITE MAP 10 5  6/16/2025 CAMA FUTURE LAND USE PLAN 11 ZONING MAP 12 6  6/16/2025 PUBLIC HEARING FY 2025/2026 Budget Ordinance, Tax Rate, Stormwater Ordinance, Fee Schedule, and Salary Schedules The FY 2025/2026 Annual Budget is presented following discussions at several work sessions with the Board of Commissioners. The budget was prepared in accordance with N.C.G.S. Chapter 159, the North Carolina Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act. As required, all funds within the budget are balanced, and all revenues and expenditures are identified for FY 2025/2026. Recommended Action: 1. Hold a public hearing; 2. Motion to adopt FY 2025/2026 Budget Ordinance, Tax Rate ($0.35/$100), Stormwater Ordinance Fee Schedule, and Salary Schedules Presenter: Rebecca Behmer, CFM, CZO– Town Planner 13 Town of Swansboro FY 25/26 Budget Public Hearing June 10, 2025 14 7  6/16/2025 Significant Influence on the overall budget. ➢ 1.5% COLA & 1.5% Merit (FICA & Retirement included) ➢ NC Orbit Retirement: Increase .75 basis points ➢ NCLM Property & Casualty 10% rate increases predicted ➢ NCLM Workers Comp 10% rate increases predicted ➢ BCBS Group Health Insurance 15% decrease due to a one-time credit. ➢ VFIS Insurance-Fire-$12,288 ➢ Land Use Update-$50,000 Budget ➢ Elections-$15,000 Highlights ➢ UDO Amendments-$5,000 ➢ Parks & Recreation-Part Time-$16,000 FY 25/26 ➢ Non-capital Outlay-$24,098 ➢ Public Safety Salary Increase-$135,888 ➢ Capital Outlay $104,000 Police Vehicles-(2)-Funded using Loan Proceeds ➢ Capital Projects-$900,000 New sidewalk construction-$500,000-Funded using Grant Funding Pickleball Court-$150,000-Assigned Fund Balance Project Coffee-$250,000-Assigned Fund Balance 15 The Proposed Budget is balanced with $634,672 appropriation from fund balance for items requested by the Board of Commissioners. ➢ Pickleball Court: $150,000 Budget Highlights ➢ Project Coffee: $250,000 (Loan) FY 25/26 ➢ Subsequent Year’s Expenditures: $234,672 16 8  6/16/2025 Major budget requests that were unfunded: $699,960 ➢ Recreation Coordinator: $56,025 ➢ Dock Attendants (2): $20,884 Budget ➢ Firefighter II (3): $213,513 Highlights ➢ Fire Administrative Lieutenant Accreditation: $38,678 FY 25/26 January 1, 2026-June 30, 2026 ➢ Firefighter-Skill Bridge Program: $5,301 June 2026 ➢New Department: Emergency Medical Services:$365,559 17 Capital Outlay Unfunded-$659,500 ➢ Extrication Equipment: $56,000 ➢ Radios-Fire Department: $18,500 ➢ Treadmill: $6,000 Budget ➢ Municipal Tot Lot: $50,000 Highlights FY 25/26 Funding with Loan Proceeds ➢ Replacement Boat/Equipment: $51,500 ➢ Brush Truck-$125,000 ➢ Utility Truck/Quick Response/ Vehicle/Equipment/Monitors- $120,500 ➢ Deployment Ready Trailer with Dams-$232,000 18 9  6/16/2025 Capital Improvement set aside that were unfunded: $260,000 ➢ Fire: $200,000 Apparatus: $150,000 Equipment: $50,000 Budget Highlights FY 25/26 ➢ Emergency Management: $15,000 ➢ Parks & Recreation: $45,000 Property Acquisition: 25,000 Waterfront Implementation: 10,000 Tennis Court Resurfacing: 10,000 19 TAX PER CENT .01 = $73,480 (100% Collection) .01 = $72,554 (98.74% Collection) • Current Tax Rate = 35 cents/$100 NCGS 159-13(b)(6)-The estimated percentage of collection of property taxes shall not be greater than the percentage of the levy actually realized in cash as of June 30 during the preceding fiscal year. For purposes of the calculation under this subdivision only, the levy for the registered motor vehicle tax under Article 22A of Chapter 105 of the General Statutes shall be based on the nine-month period ending March 31 of the preceding fiscal year, and the collections realized in cash with respect to this levy shall be based on the 12-month period ending June 30 of the preceding fiscal year. • No change projected in proposed budget 20 10  6/16/2025 General Fund FY 25/26 Revenues Ad Valorem Tax $2,539,378 Ad Valorem Tax prior years $10,000 Penalties and Interest $3,500 Sales and Use Tax $1,550,000 Powell Bill Funds $126,626 County Funding (Fire) $491,847 County Funding ($.03 Cent Property Tax) $205,000 Utility Franchise Taxes $235,000 Building Permit Fees $92,815 ABC Distribution $60,000 Beer & Wine Tax $14,000 Investment Earnings/GF $168,782 ONWASA Satellite Office Payment $35,000 Rental Fees/Leases $36,500 Festivals & Events $80,000 Appropriated Fund Balance $634,672 Other Revenues $959,334 Total General Fund Revenues $7,242,454 21 General Fund FY 24/25 Expenditures Governing Body $297,004 Administrative Services $445,135 Finance $337,748 Legal $59,300 Public Buildings $288,335 Fire Department $1,607,343 Permitting $301,128 Planning $142,066 Police Department $1,429,971 Streets Municipal $840,983 Streets State Aid $126,580 Parks & Recreation $566,367 Downtown Facilities $94,981 Emergency Management $12,000 Festivals & Events $154,689 Non-Departmental $538,824 Total General Fund Expenditures $7,242,454 22 11  6/16/2025 TOWN OF SWANSBORO FY 2024-2025 BUDGET GENERAL FUND FUND BALANCE ANALYSIS – 5 YEAR TREND Fund Balance Analysis – 5 Year Trend15 BUDGET General Fund Fund Balance Analysis – 5 Year Trend General Fund Fund Balance Analysis – 5 Year Trend General Fund Fund Balance Analysis – 5 Year Trend * Projected balance as of June 30, 2025 23 Stormwater Enterprise Fund FY 25/26 Revenues $157,574 Expenditures $157,574 No rate change proposed in FY 25/26 Note: The credit for one month if payments were made in advance of quarterly installments (i.e. lump sum for total annual fee during the first billing in July) for both commercial and residential parcels has been discontinued. 24 12  6/16/2025 Solid Waste Enterprise Fund FY 25/26 Revenues $477,354 Expenditures $477,354 No rate change proposed in FY 25/26 25 Current Debt Summary Purpose Principal Annual Payoff Date Interest Term Balance Payment Rate Town Hall/Tanker $241,087 $84,724 3/21/28 2.69 15 Fire Truck $92,139 $47,512 11/01/26 2.08 10 Sleeping Qtrs. $50,000 $29,860 12/14/26 2.43 10 Vehicles (Police & Fire Department) $22,955 $23,377 7/15/2026 1.84 5 & Software Cab Tractor/Dump Truck $208,276 $58,491 4/3/2029 4.82 5 Jet Vac Truck, Police Vehicle, (2) Fire $570,000 $129,183 12/31/2029 4.40 5 Chief Vehicles Total Debt $1,184,457 $373,147 26 13  6/16/2025 Questions/comments 27 NEW BUSINESS/NON-CONSENT Future Agenda Items Future agenda items are shared for visibility and comment. In addition, an opportunity is provided for the Board to introduce items of interest and subsequent direction for placement on future agendas. Action Needed: Discuss and provide any guidance. Presenter: Alissa Fender, MMC – Town Clerk 28 14  6/16/2025 PUBLIC COMMENT Citizen opportunity to address the Board. 29 MANAGER’S COMMENTS Town Manager Jonathan Barlow 30 15  6/16/2025 BOARD COMMENTS Mayor William Justice Mayor Pro Tem Jeffrey Conaway Commissioner Douglas Eckendorf Commissioner Joseph Brown Commissioner Patricia Turner Commissioner Tamara Pieratti 31 CLOSED SESSION Recommended Action: Motion to enter closed session pursuant to NCGS 143-318.11 (a) (3) To consult with an attorney employed or retained by the public body in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege between the attorney and the public body, which privilege is hereby acknowledged; and (5) to establish, or to instruct the public body's staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating the price and other material terms of a contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease. 32 16  6/16/2025 ADJOURN 33 17