AG 2002 01 28 (Regular) - Laserfiche WebLink

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259 for FY 2003 and FY 2004 and appoint a task force consisting of a one member each from the Chamber, the Board of Commissioners and EDC to develop alternatives as to what would be the best model for EDC in Cabarrus County. He also asked that the Board delay a decision concerning the operation of EDC until all County Commissioners could be present. There was lengthy discussion regarding the County's method of funding EDC and the advantages of EOC operating as an independent non-profit corporation. Currently, funds allocated to EDC and not spent during the fiscal year come back to the County's general fund. As a separate entity, the County Commissioners would establish the amount of funds allocated to EDC each year and any unspent funds would remain with EDC for future use. Also, the non-profit status would allow EDC to seek funding from private businesses and foundations. Other issues addressed during discussion included the following: (1) expense of operating EDC as a separate entity; (2) whether to establish EDC as an independent organization by July l, 2002, or in one to two years; and (3) the possibility of obtaining municipal funding along with private funding for EDC. Also, Commissioner Fennel proposed the establishment of a finance oversight committee that would be responsible for reviewing and signing off on all expenditures by EDC. Mr. Ewing stated that administratively there would be no problem with the establishment of a finance oversight committee. Also, he said he is currently working to develop cost estimates for operating EDC as a separate entity. UPON MOTION of Commissioner Fennel, seconded by Commissioner Privette and unanimously carried, the Board deferred a decision concerning the Economic Oevelopment Corporation (EDC) until the Board meeting on January 28 with estimated cost figures for operating EDC separately from County government to be available at that time. Commissioner Privette questioned the relationship between the Chamber of Commerce and EDC on economic development activities. Mr. Cox stated it was his understanding that the Chamber's role is more of support and identifying and addressing needs' of existing businesses as compared to the recruiting role of EDC. He stated the Chamber stands ready to bring all resources available and be a full partner with EDC. Commissioner Fennel distributed copies of a 1994 proposal to establish a Sports Authority in Cabarrus County. The proposed Authority would be dedicated to using sports as an economic development tool for the county. Chairman Freeman thanked members of the EDC Board for attending the meeting. He recessed the meeting of the Board of Commissioners for several minutes. Chairman Freeman reconvened the Board at 7:55 p.m. Cable Television Rates Mr. Day reviewed a proposed procedure for addressing cable television rate adjustments. He explained the cable company could increase rates each year if the increases comply with guidelines established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). To eliminate the need to bring the issue before the Board each year, Mr. Day suggested the Board consider adopting a resolution approving any cable rate increase that complies with the FCC- approved formulas and delegate to the County Manager the responsibility for determining whether a particular rate schedule complies with the resolution. There was discussion regarding the Board's authority in considering cable rate adjustments and the fact that cable television is a voluntary service. The Board took no action regarding the handling of cable rate issues. Closed Session UPON MOTION of Commissioner Privette, seconded by Commissioner Suggs and unanimously carried, the Board moved to go into Closed Session to discuss matters concerning economic development issues as authorized by North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a) (4); and to consult with the County Attorney concerning pending litigation and to consider and give instructions to the County Attorney concerning the handling or settlement of a potential claim, judicial action or administrative procedure as authorized by North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11{a) (3).