BC 2007 10 30 Special - Laserfiche WebLink

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October 30, 2007 (Special Meeting) Page 607 Emily Henderson and Emily Lancaster spoke on the need to develop a farmer incubator program. Harry Stanhope commented on the need to stop urban sprawl. Tommy Porter thanked the Board and the County Manager for their efforts and stated the County would be better off to buy development rights from farmers. He also encouraged the farmers to participate in the development of the grant application. Doris T. Teeter asked the elected officials to take off their blinders to see what is happening regionally to the agricultural community because of zoing. She also stated most of our food is produced in Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. John D. Day, County Manager, explained the premise and benefits of conservation easements. He asked for a show of hands of those who are interested in conservation easements; approximately three hands were raised. An unidentified speaker commented on the lack of water in Cabarrus County. Brent Barbee, representing the Piedmont Farmers' Market, asked to have funding for a paid position for the Market to eliminate volunteer burnout. Another unidentified speaker asked about the County's ability to over ride the Quick Take legislation and whether or not the Commissioners will stand behind the agricultural community. Vice Chairman Juba and Commissioners White and Privette expressed support for the agricultural community. Commissioner Privette also stated he was opposed to the Quick Take legislation. Randy Fisher commented on the practical uses of conservation easements. David Goodman asked if there is minimum size for the farm in order to participate. Comments from the County Commissioners & Agricultural Advisory Board Commissioner Privette commended Ms. Bost on her presentation. He also commented on the liability incurred for the construction of each new home and the lack of water. Vice Chairman Juba thanked everyone for attending. She also stated the need to need to work quickly on the development of the grant application and for those interested in participating to leave their contact information. Victoria Porter, Chair of the Agricultural Advisory Board, commented on the impact Cabarrus County's agricultural community is having on surrounding counties and in Washington, D.C. She asked the agricultural community to provide input for the grant application. Sandra Gray and Brent Barbee expressed support for a farmers exchange program. Marvin Bost, Agricultural Advisory Board member, commented on the need for a place to market extra hay and produce, which could also be used to hold small horse shows. Carl P1ess, Agricultural Extension Agent, commented on the use of commercial kitchens to legally sell canned produce. Identification of Priorities Debbie Bost, County Extension Director, polled the audience. Processing facilities (a.k.a. slaughter house), conservation easements, incubator farms, land or buildings for auctions were identified as items of interest. Adjourn UPON MOTION of Commissioner Privette, seconded by Commissioner White and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Clerk o t e Boa d