[5:31] Stream test May 4th.

[55:33] We'd like to call this meeting to order. So please stand for the pleasure of the

[55:38] legions, and then remain standing for the invocation by me. Thank you.

[56:01] You please remain standing for the invocation.

[56:07] I will pray and you worship and manage you so

[56:09] see fit. But I graciously and Heavenly Father, we come to you this evening. We come to

[56:17] as your humble service. We come to you and prayer asking you to guide us to do the

[56:24] people's business. So that's just what you have for our bestowed upon us. And we

[56:29] continue to ask you to guide us as we move forward in everything that we do and your

[56:34] humble name, amen.

[56:47] Again, good afternoon everyone and welcome to our today's meeting.

[56:57] We'll

[56:58] who approved agenda commission. Addison, did you wish to be heard?

[57:02] I do. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would request that pursuant to rule one of the board's

[57:08] rules of procedure. Item 16 of the consent agenda be removed from the consent agenda for separate

[57:16] consideration before a vote on the consent agenda. So moved. Second. Do we vote on this one?

[57:24] Yes, okay is the motion been made to the gender to be a minute is a motion

[57:30] I was made by commissioner

[57:37] Yes, yes, I make the motion so moved and a second by who waters commissioner waters all those in favor for approving the

[57:47] Gender police eye hi, all those opposed police in there

[57:52] So the motion carries

[57:55] Now, I would like to have a motion for approval of the minutes of April to 6, 2026, the

[58:02] work session of April 6, 2026, and the work session of April 13, 2026 is their

[58:08] motion to approve the minutes.

[58:09] I move approval of those minutes.

[58:11] Second.

[58:12] Okay.

[58:12] We have a motion by commission of dollars and a second by commission of dollars.

[58:19] All in favor, please say aye.

[58:20] Aye.

[58:21] All those opposed, please say no.

[58:24] I'm not hearing any?

[58:25] The eyes have.

[58:26] My, excuse me.

[58:28] Could you go back and do the full vote for the approval of the agenda?

[58:31] You just amended an item, but you didn't approve the full agenda.

[58:38] Okay.

[58:38] Let's go back then.

[58:40] Can I get a motion to approve the agenda as amended?

[58:44] Motion to approve the agenda as amended.

[58:47] Okay.

[58:47] We've got a motion by Commissioner Wardest to approve.

[58:51] Second by Vice Chair, Jackson, all in favour?

[58:59] Any opposed?

[59:01] Not here and in, the motion carries.

[59:10] The minutes at pass and the next thing we will have is a

[59:13] Proclamation for National Police Week and Commissioner Addison will be

[59:21] didn't that read that proclamation.

[59:41] I will read the proclamation and we're very honored to have our

[59:48] sheriff's activities here today for national law enforcement

[59:51] month. We appreciate everything y'all do and keep in

[59:56] us safe in this county in the service you provide.

[1:00:03] We're as the white county board of commissioners recognizes the sacrifice made by the brave men and women of law enforcement who have answered the call to serve and protect our communities.

[1:00:16] Whereas the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15 as police officer memorial day, and the week at which it falls is national police week.

[1:00:28] And whereas the members of our law enforcement agencies play an essential role in safeguarding

[1:00:35] the rights and freedoms of all those who live work and visit Wake County, and members

[1:00:41] of law enforcement recognize their duty to serve the people of North Carolina by safeguarding

[1:00:47] life and property by protecting against violence and disorder and by protecting the innocent

[1:00:53] against deception in the week against oppression or intimidation.

[1:01:00] Whereas our nation of Zerv's law enforcement officers week and police officers memorial

[1:01:06] day during the month of May, and whereas throughout May, law enforcement agencies and other

[1:01:15] business organizations and individuals will hold appropriate events in ceremonies across

[1:01:21] North Carolina, to celebrate the selfless public servants who wear the badge and put themselves

[1:01:26] in harm's way to keep us safe.

[1:01:31] And on peace officer Memorial Day, we pay respect to those who have lost their lives in

[1:01:38] the line of duty and recognize with deep gratitude, the critical contributions and sacrifices

[1:01:44] of all law enforcement officers and their families.

[1:01:47] This includes the 24-Fall-in-Wate County Law Enforcement Officers, and whereas, during this

[1:01:55] month and throughout the year, Wate County commends our members of law enforcement and

[1:02:01] honors their purage and dedication.

[1:02:04] Now therefore, be it resolved that the Wate County Board of Commissioners does sheerbach

[1:02:09] proclaim may tent through the 16th, 2026, its National Police Week. It may 15th, 2026,

[1:02:18] its Peace Officers Memorial Day, and urges the residents of our community and communities

[1:02:23] across the county to remember the officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.

[1:02:29] And to thank those who still wear the badge. By lighting homes, businesses and landmarks

[1:02:36] to honor the memory of the fallen and in solidarity with their families.

[1:02:41] Adopted this fourth day of May,

[1:02:44] 2,026, signed by Don Chair,

[1:02:47] Don Mile Chair of the Lake County Board of Commissioners.

[1:02:50] So moved.

[1:02:52] Okay.

[1:02:52] We have a motion by Commission Adamson to approve the

[1:02:56] Proclamation.

[1:02:56] Is there a second?

[1:02:58] Second.

[1:02:59] Second by Commission of Jackson.

[1:03:00] All in favor?

[1:03:02] Hi.

[1:03:03] All those opposed?

[1:03:04] No.

[1:03:04] Not hearing in the motion carries, the information is approved.

[1:03:10] Thank you.

[1:03:11] Thank you.

[1:03:19] We thank the Commission for standing this honor and recognition of the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

[1:03:29] National Police Week serves as a reminder of the dangers we face each day.

[1:03:35] and also the service provided the sacrifices made by each man and woman to keep our community safe.

[1:03:45] Again, we thank you for honoring us and we look forward to continuing to work and serve this community.

[1:03:50] Thank you in God bless you. Thank you.

[1:04:03] Mr. Chair, boards of the Commission.

[1:04:05] I do believe the sheriff has a honor he would like to bestow on one of his deputies.

[1:04:15] Good

[1:04:20] evening.

[1:04:23] The sheriff's commendation is a special honor personally granted by Sheriff Willero to recognize an individual who has demonstrated exceptional service, dedication or bravery.

[1:04:34] It is awarded at the sheriff's sole discretion to those who go above and beyond and make a significant positive impact on the agency or community.

[1:04:42] On behalf of Sheriff Roe and the White County Sheriff's Office, it is my distinct pleasure

[1:04:47] and privilege to present Deputy Olsen, Deputy Paro, Deputy Puebla, Deputy Connoes, Deputy

[1:04:54] Polo, and Deputy Peterkin with this commendation.

[1:04:57] Similizing our deep appreciation for their exceptional

[1:05:00] On April 13, 2026, at the beginning of the work day, these six deputies responded to a call for a medical emergency at the Wake County Justice Center.

[1:05:11] Each one acted swiftly, whether it was moving the patient safely to the floor, starting chest compressions, and using the AED, they all worked together until firefighters took over.

[1:05:22] Because of the life-saving efforts of these deputies, the patient, Adam Levy, is recovering well, and he's here tonight sitting in an audience.

[1:05:40] We would like to bring light to their honorable actions.

[1:05:43] You decided to take action and not stop until help arrived.

[1:05:47] We are profoundly grateful for your service and selflessness in the line of duty.

[1:05:51] Thank you.

[1:05:52] Thank you.

[1:05:57] Thank you.

[1:05:58] Thank

[1:06:04] you

[1:06:49] so much for coming.

[1:07:45] Thank you, Sheriff Row, and in the depot, we really appreciate that y'all bring this before,

[1:07:51] and I know my colleagues have a comment down,

[1:07:53] I'm sure they want to make some commission

[1:07:56] of Stalin's, that you.

[1:07:58] Just we just so appreciate all of our law enforcement officers

[1:08:03] and all that you do every single day.

[1:08:05] And this is just an example of your bravery and your courage.

[1:08:07] But this goes on every single day.

[1:08:09] And we just thank you for all that you do for us.

[1:08:11] We are very blessed to have you protecting our community.

[1:08:14] Thank you.

[1:08:16] Commissioner Anderson.

[1:08:16] I'll be back soon.

[1:08:18] OK.

[1:08:18] Mr. Jackson?

[1:08:21] Yes, thank you for keeping us safe and keeping our neighbors alive. Thank you.

[1:08:26] Commissioner Evans?

[1:08:29] Indeed, we appreciate fast action and you being almost spot for what it's needed.

[1:08:34] Thank you so much.

[1:08:35] Commissioner Thomas.

[1:08:37] Thank you, Chair. I have no comments.

[1:08:39] I have the next proclamation to mention folks who serve in our community.

[1:08:43] Thank you, Commissioner Wardas.

[1:08:44] As the granddaughter of Sheriff's Deputy, I'm extremely grateful for your service and I understand

[1:08:50] the sacrifice that you all give every day.

[1:08:52] And so thank you.

[1:08:55] And I as well, having the entire Department of Public Safety, so I understand the need and

[1:09:01] turn to what these guys do every day, but we just want to make sure we honor your service

[1:09:05] and everything you do to protect our community.

[1:09:07] Again, thank you so very much.

[1:09:15] Next, we will move on to a military precession month proclamation, and that will be read by Commissioner

[1:09:22] Nikotamus.

[1:09:25] And it's set by Brooke Dickhart, Executive Director of the Joel Fund.

[1:09:51] Good evening.

[1:09:52] Military precession month is always meaningful to me, but this year it carries a different kind of

[1:09:56] weight as we watch what's happening across the world we've been reminded.

[1:10:00] That there are still men and women actively serving, actively sacrificing on our behalf. And as the wife of a veteran, and as the daughter of a veteran who served in wartime, here's what I know to be true. Service doesn't stop when someone comes home for many veterans and their families. That's when a different kind of journey begins. And that's why the Joel Fund matters so deeply. Because they see the whole person, they see the family. They understand that support isn't just about a moment. It's about walking with people through the long road of healing, transition, and restoration.

[1:10:29] it's for the whole family. As local government we talk a lot about meeting people where they are and the

[1:10:35] Joel Fund does that every single day. So today's recognition is really about gratitude, but it's also about alignment.

[1:10:41] It's about lifting up the kind of work that truly holds our community together. I'm honored to read this

[1:10:46] Proclamation. Whereas the month of May is nationally recognized as military appreciation month, a time set aside to honor the courage,

[1:10:53] sacrifice and service of our nation's active duty service members, veterans, and military

[1:10:57] families.

[1:10:58] And whereas Wake County is home to a large and growing population of veterans and military

[1:11:02] families, reflecting North Carolina's proud and enduring military tradition, and whereas

[1:11:07] the North Carolina Department of Military and Veteran Affairs works diligently to support, advocate

[1:11:13] for and serve the needs of North Carolina's military community through programs that enhance

[1:11:17] quality of life, expand access to resources, ensure that no veteran or family is left behind,

[1:11:24] and whereas local organizations such as the Joel Fund, based in Rulesville, play a critical

[1:11:29] role in strengthening our community by providing essential services, mental health support,

[1:11:34] and advocacy for veterans and military-connected families, and whereas the Joel Fund's work exemplifies

[1:11:39] compassion, commitment, and community partnership ensuring all of those that have served our

[1:11:45] country and their loved ones receive the care and recognition they deserve, and whereas

[1:11:50] during times of conflict and global uncertainty, including periods of war, the need for

[1:11:55] these services and for public recognition becomes even more urgent, as military families

[1:12:00] carry increased burdens of service, sacrifice, and separation, and whereas it is both fitting

[1:12:06] and proper that Wake County honors military appreciation month and uplifts the organizations

[1:12:11] that stand in support of those who serve.

[1:12:13] Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the Wake County Board of Commissioners that we do

[1:12:18] hereby recognize May as military appreciation month in Wake County and commend the

[1:12:23] Joel Fund for its outstanding service and unwavering dedication to military families and

[1:12:28] be it further proclaim that we encourage all residents of Wake County to honor, support,

[1:12:32] and express gratitude to our service members, veterans, and their families and to recognize

[1:12:37] the important work of organizations and agencies that serve them adopted this fourth day of May

[1:12:43] 2020-26. Chairman, I make that motion.

[1:12:47] Thank you. Commissioner Thomas, there was a motion about commission. Thomas is there a second?

[1:12:53] Seconded?

[1:12:54] I have a second by commission of Stalin. The motion has been made. Is there all in favor please

[1:13:00] Aye. Aye. Aye. Those opposed.

[1:13:03] We said no. The eyes have it. Motion cares.

[1:13:06] Proclamation proves. Thank you so much.

[1:13:08] Brooke, this is for you and your organization.

[1:13:14] Please.

[1:13:20] Good evening commissioners.

[1:13:22] This is quite an honor.

[1:13:24] I don't think I really understood what this was tonight.

[1:13:27] So I'm from the bottom of my heart.

[1:13:28] I'm truly honored to be here.

[1:13:31] On behalf of the Julfund and the veterans and families we serve.

[1:13:35] I want to thank the commissioners for this proclamation.

[1:13:39] Military appreciation month is more than just a date on a calendar.

[1:13:42] It's a reminder of the sacrifices made by our neighbors.

[1:13:47] At the Joel Fund, we believe that thank you for your service.

[1:13:51] It's just the beginning of a conversation.

[1:13:53] Not the end.

[1:13:55] This recognition helps us continue our mission of ensuring no veteran feels isolated or forgotten.

[1:14:01] And I want to thank you for standing with us.

[1:14:05] Okay,

[1:14:35] before we move on to consent agenda, does anyone have a motion as to item 16, which has been removed from the consent agenda?

[1:14:42] I do, Mr. Chair.

[1:14:45] Thank you for recognizing me.

[1:14:47] Mr. Chair, I make a motion that the Board defer consideration on item 16,

[1:14:53] weight-med board of directors, amendment to weight-meds, articles, and incorporation, and second.

[1:15:00] Senate amendment to transfer agreement for at least 90 days and that no other action be taken on item 16, so moved.

[1:15:10] Okay, we have a motion by Commission Anderson. Is there a second? Second? Second, my Commission

[1:15:16] Waters. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. Aye. All opposed, please say no. The

[1:15:24] eyes have it. The motion carries.

[1:15:29] So at this time, I want to make a statement and reference

[1:15:35] to item 16,

[1:15:41] and that is the Wake, the County Board of Commission,

[1:15:47] we officially decided

[1:15:49] to delay consideration this agenda item regarding the proposed strategic combination of

[1:15:54] Wake, Med Health, and Hospital in HM Health. The Board made this decision to provide time

[1:16:01] for the hospitals to engage with the community. So they along with the County Commission

[1:16:06] can here, residents, comments and concerns about this combination.

[1:16:12] The community engagement is important part of work that we do.

[1:16:17] But a join of these hospitals may be positive for Wake County.

[1:16:21] We want to be fully open and transparent about the process.

[1:16:26] And that includes a line of ample time for the public feedback.

[1:16:31] The Board hope is that Wake Man and Atrium Health will listen to the community insights,

[1:16:38] answer their questions, and make changes that need to address staff concerns.

[1:16:44] Wake Man is asking the Commission to approve Change to Two Legal Documents,

[1:16:48] and even the hospital to proceed with regulatory reviews.

[1:16:51] The documents are one, the article in Corporation, and two, the transfer agreement.

[1:17:00] The articles in Corporation have found how many members the board can't appoint to

[1:17:05] the WakeMed Board of Directors and where they must reside.

[1:17:09] The amended version of this document contains to allow the commissions to appoint eight

[1:17:13] members to the 14 member WakeMed Board of Directors.

[1:17:16] It also confirmed that the eight appointees must live within Wake County.

[1:17:22] This ensures that Wake County and its residents will continue to have a say in how

[1:17:27] WakeMed mixes obligation after this combination.

[1:17:32] The transfer of agreement restakes WakeMed commitment to maintaining our improvement, the

[1:17:37] level of healthcare services it provides to residents from a cross-reason, including the

[1:17:42] President and community have care.

[1:17:45] This is important because Wake Man does not meet the expectation

[1:17:49] of listening to the document, the hospital reversed back to the county.

[1:17:55] The board does not have the legal authority to approve the adjournment of Wake Man or

[1:17:59] our atrium.

[1:18:01] Wake Man requested action is just the first of many in a detailed process that involved

[1:18:06] the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice.

[1:18:10] The commissioners are not involved in any way and wake me as operation, and they will not

[1:18:16] contribute any funding or any property or access to wake me as part of this proposed

[1:18:21] combination.

[1:18:24] The wake-med campus on Newton Avenue in Raleigh was once the county's hospital.

[1:18:28] In 1997, Wake County agreed to transfer the hospital to a non-profit wake-med corporation.

[1:18:35] On a state law that allows non-profit to operate community hospitals if they agree to provide care to residents who are unable to pay to continue to operate the hospital as a community general open to the public.

[1:18:54] The 1997 agreement in the statute say if the hospital ever stopped being a non-profit community

[1:19:00] general hospital, open to the public and provide an energetic care, it could, if we

[1:19:05] were back to the county.

[1:19:08] Therefore, the commission must have proved in a change in that structure.

[1:19:13] So, I want to make sure that we went on record in terms of the board, our environment and

[1:19:18] this decision making.

[1:19:19] So, I think we need to vote to go ahead and move this.

[1:19:27] So, all in favor, we have a motion by Commissioner Adams and we have a second, I think

[1:19:34] we're by Commissioner Waters, all in favor.

[1:19:38] Aye.

[1:19:38] All opposed?

[1:19:41] Not hearing any, then that motion carries.

[1:19:43] Thank you.

[1:19:49] Okay, now we will have a motion to approve the consent.

[1:19:56] So there are motion to approve the consent agenda.

[1:19:58] Motion to approve the consent agenda.

[1:20:00] As a motion by a commissioner, Thomas, you approve the consent agenda, all the second.

[1:20:06] I'll second that.

[1:20:07] That's the second by a commissioner, Alison, all in favor?

[1:20:10] Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. All opposed, please.

[1:20:12] The motion carries.

[1:20:15] So the consent agenda is approved.

[1:20:18] Now is time for the General Public comment period.

[1:20:23] And the regular meeting, the Board of Commission,

[1:20:26] And at a case of time to hear from residents.

[1:20:30] Attenties had an opportunity to sign up,

[1:20:33] using an online sign-up app.

[1:20:37] We also provide an opportunity to sign up here in person.

[1:20:41] I have the list of people who sign up when I call your name,

[1:20:45] please come to the podium, give us your name,

[1:20:48] and if you will share what part of the county you reside in.

[1:20:52] Then you will have up to three minutes to speak.

[1:20:56] When you have one minute left, the yellow light will go on.

[1:21:01] When your time has elapsed, their red light will go on.

[1:21:05] If you're still speaking at the end of your time, I'll ask you to complete your sentence

[1:21:09] in the inches of fairness to everyone.

[1:21:12] I'm going to try to be consistent about that.

[1:21:15] Please note that the commissioners will not respond to comments shared today.

[1:21:19] This comment period is the time for us to hear from you.

[1:21:24] I will begin with the first name on the list.

[1:21:28] And the first name on the list is Donald Jensen, CEO of WakeMed.

[1:21:43] Commissioners, chair.

[1:21:45] Thank you very much for the opportunity to come talk to you today.

[1:21:48] Let me begin by humbly acknowledging the outpouring and support and love.

[1:21:53] We have felt over the last 48 hours from our WakeMed community.

[1:21:56] for WakeMed. We weren't sure before Friday. We know for certain that Wake County residents,

[1:22:03] community leaders, and our elected officials from Washington and local government's value are

[1:22:08] care. Thank you all. Naturally, a matter of magnitude of this size raises questions and concerns,

[1:22:15] and we expect that. We welcome and we'll do our best as we always have in working with you to do

[1:22:22] the best for this community.

[1:22:26] The reality is, as we look five, ten, and twenty-five years ahead,

[1:22:32] we know that WakeMed cannot continue to provide the healthcare that this county needs

[1:22:38] without a strong strategic partner.

[1:22:41] We will not have access to the capital that we need to meet the needs of one of the

[1:22:46] fastest growing communities in the country.

[1:22:49] We serve many patients who cannot afford health care, and we are committed to giving them the same access and quality care that those who have means are able to access.

[1:23:03] We face powerful competition from two large competitors, one that is owned by the State of North Carolina, and one that has all the resources of Duke Health.

[1:23:13] This new partnership will mean Wake County will still be served by three strong system.

[1:23:21] There will be more competition, not less.

[1:23:24] From more than 65 years, we have, as a little old WakeMed, met that competition in the challenges that health care faces.

[1:23:34] We provide excellent care and serve everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

[1:23:40] We cannot continue to go at a loan, especially in the face of federal, state, and other

[1:23:46] cuts, and an ever-expanding community that needs more services.

[1:23:52] Healthcare costs continue to rise through inflation, whether it's a cost of good, staffing,

[1:23:57] pharmaceutical, and construction costs.

[1:24:00] We understand that the federal government, state government, and even the state health plan

[1:24:05] are looking to cut reimbursement to hospitals in order to deal with the hard choices.

[1:24:10] they have to make. To identify the right partner we went through a long and deliberate and

[1:24:16] diligent process. We hired consultants from national organizations to analyze possible partners

[1:24:24] in North Carolina and outside of North Carolina. We focused on finding a partner that would

[1:24:30] focus on community, high ethics, and shared values.

[1:24:37] What I can tell you is H.M. health rose to the top of that list.

[1:24:41] Their homegrown here in North Carolina, they have a proven record of community commitment,

[1:24:48] their well-managed organization, have strong financial capabilities.

[1:24:55] It is no, this is not a sale.

[1:24:57] I'm sorry, but I'd really like please.

[1:25:02] Thank you. This is not a sale. We look forward to educating the community and those involved in what this is about, and to be honest, this is about making sure that

[1:25:13] WakeMed and our community don't just survive but that they thrive. Thank you so very much.

[1:25:19] Thank you. Next up, Mr. Theresa Plaster.

[1:25:26] Mr. Theresa Plaster.

[1:25:32] Joshua Ward.

[1:25:45] Thank you. My name is Joshua Ward.

[1:25:49] I am a physician here in Raleigh.

[1:25:51] And I specialize in hospital medicine.

[1:25:53] I'm here to raise some concerns regarding the proposed

[1:25:56] atrium week-med merger.

[1:25:59] Unfortunately, there has been little times to find

[1:26:01] fully review the spectrum of implications

[1:26:03] and possible impacts that community, the specific deal creates

[1:26:05] which is one of my concerns, but thank you for considering and approving a delay in this vote.

[1:26:13] We have, though, had plenty of time to acknowledge the pattern of consolidation and downstream and long-term consequences on health care across our country.

[1:26:21] As and almost all other industries, since all of the population,

[1:26:25] inevitably leads to less competition, increased prices, a worse product and a race to the bottom for workers pay.

[1:26:31] For other industries, this results in mostly inconveniences and customer dissatisfaction, and health care,

[1:26:38] the results are these things as well as actual people's lives.

[1:26:43] One way consolidation health care negatively affects patients is often by reducing or

[1:26:46] siloing, especially resources as a cost-saving measure.

[1:26:49] This leads to worse access to care disproportionately affecting rural communities and disproportionately

[1:26:54] affecting women's care, pediatric care, and mental health care.

[1:26:57] There are now four distinct maternity care deserts in North Carolina, including in Southern

[1:27:02] North Carolina and South Eastern North Carolina, between 2013 and 2023, nine hospitals

[1:27:08] completely eliminated labor and delivery services and at least 29 delivery rooms were

[1:27:14] cut or repurposed at rural hospitals over the last decade.

[1:27:17] When these other hospitals, these rural hospitals close services, the patients that need these

[1:27:22] services that need to be transported hours away from their homes to larger health care systems.

[1:27:28] And unfortunately, I have witnessed firsthand how this creates more strain on our ability

[1:27:32] to treat the residents of Wake County.

[1:27:34] I ask what is atrins and advocates advocate health's plan to reverse this trend.

[1:27:41] In addition to our rural communities, WakeNet has always committed itself to providing

[1:27:45] care to our indigenous population.

[1:27:46] Is pride itself in remaining independent and thus able to respond primarily to the needs

[1:27:50] of this community and all residents of Wake County.

[1:27:53] How can we expect the same from a multi-state conglomerate

[1:27:56] like Advocate Health?

[1:27:58] For healthcare workers, either already serving this community

[1:28:01] or considering moving to the area,

[1:28:02] you will have fewer options, less choice and less ability

[1:28:05] with no, with which to sit and negotiate with your employer.

[1:28:10] Less competition, there's less incentive for them

[1:28:13] to provide competitive salaries or benefits.

[1:28:16] I also want to recognize that this proposal comes just four

[1:28:18] months after WakeMed failed to get approval

[1:28:20] to independently expand their cancer services.

[1:28:23] In 2022, WAKEMAD applied through the certificate of need

[1:28:26] process to add a linear accelerator or line-ack

[1:28:29] to its radiation treatment options.

[1:28:30] However, due to anti-competitive CON laws,

[1:28:33] neighboring health systems were able to litigate

[1:28:35] and block the approval for this potentially life-saving service.

[1:28:38] By some estimates, WAKEMAD loses more than $30 million annually

[1:28:42] having to refer patients to their competitors for this vital treatment.

[1:28:45] Of note, Gene Wood, CEO of A3M's parent company

[1:28:48] advocate health reportedly made more than $25 million dollars last year to your last

[1:28:52] sense there.

[1:28:54] Sure.

[1:28:56] So the bottom line is that consolidation of health care is bad for patients and health care

[1:29:00] workers alike.

[1:29:01] This pattern across our state and country continues to drive up costs worse than access

[1:29:05] to care and further puts workers at a disadvantage.

[1:29:10] Thank you.

[1:29:11] Ms. Margaret Branton.

[1:29:25] Thank you.

[1:29:25] I'm Margaret Branton currently serving as Vice Chair of the Wake Med Board of Directors and

[1:29:29] Commissioner appointee. As we all know, on Friday, May 1,

[1:29:33] Wait, Med, and Atrium Health announced plans to come together in a strategic

[1:29:37] combination. At its core, this means we've made a thoughtful decision to

[1:29:41] partner because we believe that by working together, we can do more for our

[1:29:45] patients, our communities, and our teams than we could ever do on our own.

[1:29:49] I appreciate that considering this for the first time can be overwhelming. It can

[1:29:53] be a shock. It was to us as well. Out of respect to you, the

[1:29:57] The Board felt it was important.

[1:30:00] To wait until this was formally on the agenda before sharing more publicly.

[1:30:04] And now we have the opportunity to be open and transparent about what this means and why

[1:30:09] the Board unanimously believes that this is the right step forward.

[1:30:14] I had the privilege and responsibility of serving on the exact committee that carefully

[1:30:18] and painstakingly explored wake meds options.

[1:30:22] We spent two years asking tough questions and looking honestly at the challenges facing us

[1:30:28] health care today and thinking about what WakeMed needs not just for today but for its

[1:30:34] future. Above all else, one priority got it us. Making sure WakeMed can continue providing

[1:30:41] outstanding and compassionate care for all. This mission remains at the heart of every decision

[1:30:48] we've made. WakeMed is a strong and successful organization and we're proud of the care we provide.

[1:30:54] it is such an integral part of Wake County, and from the comments posted, it is obvious

[1:31:00] that the community feels the same way.

[1:31:03] We also have to recognize, however, that our size can limit how quickly and how much

[1:31:07] we can grow, especially, as our community continues to expand, partnering with an organization

[1:31:13] that shares our values and our culture, and atrium health does, gives us the opportunity

[1:31:19] to build on that strength and prepare for what's ahead.

[1:31:23] We are choosing to do this from a position of strength so that we can help shape the future rather than react to it.

[1:31:31] We also know that our facilities and services need to grow with our community.

[1:31:36] Parts of our rally campus are decades old and need significant investments to meet today's needs and to Mars demands.

[1:31:44] Not only will this partnership give us an opportunity to renovate, but also to expand access and services.

[1:31:51] And it gives us the opportunity to invest in White County in impactful way to create new jobs and strengthen our mental health resources.

[1:32:00] This partnership enables us to do even more for people we serve while staying true to who we are and what matters most.

[1:32:08] I like the rest of our White Med Board and committed to continuing this conversation.

[1:32:12] answering any questions and making sure our community both the understands both the

[1:32:19] why and the how behind this crucial step for. Thank you. Thank you Ms. Bracken. Next Ms.

[1:32:26] I'll tell you Rainy.

[1:32:39] Good evening. My name is Octavio Rainy and I am the South and

[1:32:42] Srawley. I would like to say too that we kind of brought a commission. I think there was a

[1:32:47] little mistake in me when you started talking about what we did. I want you to take

[1:32:53] back when there was St. Agnes Hospital. When St. Agnes Hospital closed in the sixteenth,

[1:33:02] it merged into Waitmeat. That was a mention when you were talking about Waitmeat. So I have

[1:33:10] to bring that to your attention. And during this time, we had just passed the Fair Housing Act.

[1:33:16] Their Waitmeat was sitting with the first integration of the hospital system. They did

[1:33:23] did that with courtesy, kindness, and they served black people before

[1:33:31] registered. Let's be clear on this, they served black people. So don't

[1:33:37] ever forget what weight-made is doing, and they are continuously

[1:33:42] serving the underserved black people in Southeast Asia. Not only do

[1:33:47] that, they have never forgotten about saying Agnes Hospital. And I don't

[1:33:53] able to want Joe to forget about Saint Agnes Hospital.

[1:33:56] I got a little hot on my collar right then.

[1:33:59] But when you talk about that, talk about the merger.

[1:34:02] Now, here what it is again, one and two merge with A-Trump.

[1:34:08] I think it's a perfect idea.

[1:34:10] It's a deal then the opportunity to really expand

[1:34:14] and to do more.

[1:34:16] It will also give them the opportunity

[1:34:18] to take another look at Saint Agnes Hospital.

[1:34:22] We need this merger.

[1:34:25] This merger is going to benefit Southeast Rale, not only are they a health provider, but they

[1:34:31] do other things in Southeast Rale.

[1:34:36] They celebrate saying, Agnes Hospital, they had never forgotten saying Agnes Hospital.

[1:34:42] They know how important Agnes Hospital is to the community, not only that, they provide programs

[1:34:50] for youth.

[1:34:51] They help celebrate our history.

[1:34:54] They help preserve our history when we had COVID.

[1:34:58] Wait, man, open up them.

[1:35:00] And we all know how devastating that is. They have their mammograms, mammograms, that people really women really need. When you look at

[1:35:11] what you don't only think of a health health service, they provide other services to the community. They serve people who could not get service in it, where else. And speaking of the black people, I really know that.

[1:35:28] Wait, Ned, is my health care provider.

[1:35:33] I put all my faith in all my trust in with me.

[1:35:36] I welcome the opportunity to have public conversation.

[1:35:42] I would join with me in those public conversation.

[1:35:46] I believe in what Ned.

[1:35:48] All right.

[1:35:48] Thank you, Ms. Rain.

[1:35:52] Next Dan Blue.

[1:36:01] Commissioner, Mr. Chair, I am Dan Blun III, I reside in Wake Forest my office this year

[1:36:07] downtown.

[1:36:09] And on behalf of Wake Med's Board of Directors, and as a member of the Executive Committee

[1:36:13] for Wake Med, having been appointed and served on Wake Med's Board for the last 10-plus

[1:36:19] years, I'm honored to offer comments tonight, support of Wake Med's proposed partnership

[1:36:23] with Atrem Health.

[1:36:24] As a member of the Executive Committee, I have been involved in the process of identifying

[1:36:28] the need for strategic partner and was charged with finding the right partner. That's the

[1:36:33] executive committee, not just me. We particularly were looking for a partner who shares in

[1:36:39] WakeMed's mission of care for all, a partner who's recognized for their clinical excellence,

[1:36:44] a partner who's financially and ethically sound, a partner who prioritizes patients, teammates,

[1:36:49] and community partnerships. That's important to us because that's the relationship that we have with

[1:36:54] County to identify that right partner who went the way long and diligent process.

[1:37:00] The Board, recognizing the importance of this decision, commissioned an independent study

[1:37:05] by a healthcare consulting firm.

[1:37:08] After looking inside of North Carolina across the nation for a partner, the study recommended

[1:37:14] a partnership with Atrium in the proposal that's in front of you.

[1:37:17] Atrium Health is part of Advocate Health the nation's largest, third largest, non-profit academic

[1:37:24] health system with Wake Forest University's School of Medicine as its academic core.

[1:37:29] It has roots and strong presence here in North Carolina, and its leadership understands and

[1:37:34] supports our commitment, Wake Meds commitment to our community.

[1:37:39] This strategic partnership with Atrium will be right for Wake Med, and right for the

[1:37:43] people of Wake County as well.

[1:37:45] The patients, the consumers, and the taxpayers.

[1:37:48] as we try to confront a challenging health care environment coming in the years ahead.

[1:37:55] Thank you very much for your consideration.

[1:37:57] Thank you for the time and the opportunity to engage the public with this.

[1:38:00] We think this is the right deal for us.

[1:38:02] Thank you very much.

[1:38:04] Thank you.

[1:38:05] Next, we want to be Dr. Brian Clarksner.

[1:38:20] Thank you.

[1:38:20] So my name is Brian Clausener.

[1:38:22] I am a public health physician for WakeMed and run our Center for Community Health Innovation

[1:38:28] and equity. And part of what we've been doing over the last 10 plus years is innovating models

[1:38:34] that better manage our sickest patients. The really cool thing about what we've been able to do

[1:38:39] is we realize to better manage our sickest patients or residents. We have to get outside the walls

[1:38:44] of our hospital systems. And so the work that we dealt with community partners, including Wake County,

[1:38:51] has been truly kind of national model type of stuff. It's been awesome. If you think about

[1:38:56] the familiar face initiative, Oaksity Care's cornerstone,

[1:39:00] some of our efforts around housing first models,

[1:39:04] hopefully, respite coming soon.

[1:39:06] The street outreach teams that we developed,

[1:39:08] are worked during COVID.

[1:39:10] We have worked intentionally to kind of merge our efforts

[1:39:14] in terms of population health,

[1:39:16] with the evolving efforts of health and all policies

[1:39:18] with the county, and in doing so,

[1:39:20] one of the things that we constantly ask ourselves

[1:39:22] is how can we better stop hemorrhaging money

[1:39:26] tolerating the expensive suffering of our high-risk individuals?

[1:39:31] Our marginalized, our stereotypes are labeled.

[1:39:36] And the only reason we've been able to do that throughout the years

[1:39:39] is because we do have a very unique leadership that is uniquely dedicated

[1:39:43] to mission to serving our highest-risk patients.

[1:39:49] And so, I am admittedly oblivious in a lot of things in life, so I had no idea about this until last Friday, but my initial reaction was, I was confident.

[1:40:00] And you heard it today that our leadership in our board of directors had that perspective as they were evaluating this, because that's really true to who they are.

[1:40:11] And I was also reassured, because I've worked with A-trim. Just this past week, two days before the announcement, we had a two-day symposium at Wake Med last week, where we got six hospital systems across the state to come together to talk about how we can better build these models.

[1:40:27] And H.R.M was there, and H.R.M is part of that.

[1:40:31] We had DHHS, we had Denise Forman there, great innovative speakers that talked about.

[1:40:36] How can we leverage this collaborative partnerships across North Carolina to improve how we manage

[1:40:44] our sickest patients?

[1:40:46] We've also worked with H.R.M.

[1:40:48] I've been very aware of their focus.

[1:40:50] My specialty is around people experiencing homelessness.

[1:40:53] Their investment in housing, as well documented.

[1:40:55] not only direct investment in housing, but also sponsoring community initiatives that dress

[1:41:01] root cause and something called home for all that they've done over in Charlotte.

[1:41:05] We worked with them on their street outreach teams.

[1:41:08] Wake Med will engage almost every patient who gets shot or stabbed in the community, victims

[1:41:14] of violence.

[1:41:15] We engage with our case management team when we provide trauma and form care.

[1:41:18] They have a similar program out there.

[1:41:20] So we already have a lot of systems and a lot of collaborations in place.

[1:41:24] You're going to finish up your life.

[1:41:26] So, in finishing, I am very confident that I think we can leverage our experience and our expertise

[1:41:35] to really scale this and using the resources and the funding that A.T.R.M. brings it

[1:41:40] with table.

[1:41:41] So, thank you.

[1:41:42] Thank you.

[1:41:44] Next, Mr. Tom Oxen.

[1:41:54] Good evening, commissioners.

[1:41:56] And Dr. Ellis, good to be back here with you and not talking about public schools.

[1:41:59] For those of you who think of me that way, I must tell you that I've been involved at Wake

[1:42:03] Med even longer than public schools.

[1:42:06] So in Digivian IDS, I've spent 12 years on the Foundation Board, chaired that for two raised

[1:42:10] money for the other ten, was on the hospital board for ten years, chaired that for two during

[1:42:15] the Obamacare ACA crisis, where UNC tried to take over Wake Med, and following that

[1:42:21] went into six years as the on the ACO Board is required by the Affordable Care Act to get

[1:42:26] doctors and hospitals working together.

[1:42:28] Work with three different CEOs, many board members, and I can tell you that WakeMed is the true

[1:42:34] Jam of Wake County that most people do not know all the things they do.

[1:42:39] But I'm going to talk to you today more about money.

[1:42:42] And because I'm going to count them, then that's what I tend to look at first.

[1:42:45] So back in 1995, 1996, Chairman of the Commission set up something called the Lutter Commission

[1:42:50] to look at spending by the County Commission on Local Things like Public Schools and WakeMed,

[1:42:56] which at the time was a public hospital and we were the county commission's

[1:43:01] were spending six million dollars a year to reimburse the cost of

[1:43:05] indigent care. They didn't want to spend that money.

[1:43:09] They asked the hospital, should we stop doing it? Should we sell it to

[1:43:12] tenant, who's made an offer to buy, wakemet?

[1:43:15] Twelve Republican business leaders looked at all the numbers,

[1:43:19] talked to everybody and said, no, whatever we would get would be a

[1:43:23] One time thing, WakeMed would go away, and then a day would buy us it would never be the

[1:43:27] same.

[1:43:28] Plus the energy care price is going to go up in the future, don't sell it.

[1:43:33] Two years later, one year after we finished our work, they worked out an agreement with

[1:43:36] WakeMed to become a private not-for-profit, and it's been that way since 1997.

[1:43:42] The commissioners have had to put no money in.

[1:43:44] You all get an annual report as to what's given back to the community.

[1:43:48] And the uninsured care, the energy care is still covered.

[1:43:50] Except the cost of that, instead of being six million dollars a year now, is a hundred million dollars a year.

[1:43:56] Price to health care is going up in the last 30 years.

[1:43:59] So when they asked me 18 months ago to come in and take a look at this, to see what I thought,

[1:44:04] I said, I'll take a look at it.

[1:44:06] But if it means selling wake-med, no way.

[1:44:09] There's no way I'm going to agree to that.

[1:44:11] And then I looked at the numbers.

[1:44:13] And here's an accounting lesson.

[1:44:15] Hospitals are non-profit, but they make a profit.

[1:44:18] if there do things really well and they don't have a pandemic.

[1:44:22] They take that profit and they add back depreciation, a non-cash expense.

[1:44:26] That total cash goes to pay for their capital improvements and they keep in their cash level

[1:44:30] where it needs to be to have an A rating for their bond issuances, because they're constantly

[1:44:35] barring as much as they can for capital.

[1:44:38] Why do they need to do it?

[1:44:40] I don't know if you all didn't run this county so well, maybe we wouldn't have as many people

[1:44:43] moving here.

[1:44:44] But the county is doing well, is growth, more people, 45% market share.

[1:44:49] And as a home hospital for this county, we must deliver what's needed.

[1:44:54] UNC has orange county, Durham has Durham county, and then they like to come to

[1:44:58] county to take important things.

[1:45:01] We, week, med, must have. So why? Why would I now be standing before you saying, this is a good thing?

[1:45:07] You know, could you go ahead and move to your last part there? I'm sorry.

[1:45:11] Because this is a good thing, because we will not be able to keep up with the future with this slim health,

[1:45:17] slim profits that are available in health care today, and having survived the pandemic losses that hurt our hospital

[1:45:24] in order to continue doing what we're doing, and $2 billion of already documented needs,

[1:45:30] we must have this partnership while maintaining control and assurances that anybody

[1:45:35] who we are committed to working with will do what they say.

[1:45:39] Thank you for your time.

[1:45:40] Thank you for your service.

[1:45:41] Thank you.

[1:45:43] Next up, Ms. Sharon Edmison,

[1:45:51] Ms. Sharon Edmison,

[1:45:55] next item, Ms. Seed Hutchison.

[1:45:57] Good

[1:46:08] evening, Mr. Chair and commissioners.

[1:46:11] I'm Sig Hutchinson, former Wake County Commissioner.

[1:46:14] Here to speak and support of the partnership between

[1:46:16] WakeMed Health and Hospitals and Atrium Health.

[1:46:20] As you begin to deal with decision, this decision,

[1:46:23] ultimately it comes down to three things.

[1:46:26] Trust, leadership, and partnerships.

[1:46:30] Starting with trust, as we collectively think about

[1:46:35] WakeMed Health and Hospitals.

[1:46:36] And the million dollars, millions of dollars of health care and services provided to all

[1:46:42] of our residents, including and especially our most vulnerable, as is the county hospital.

[1:46:49] I believe that we would all say, yes, we have nothing but trust in admiration for the services

[1:46:57] that these great professionals provide to our residents every day.

[1:47:01] So, yes, we do trust, wake mad, 100%.

[1:47:06] But that trust comes from years of great and strong leadership,

[1:47:10] starting at the top with Donald Jinsick.

[1:47:13] For 13 years, Donald Jinsick has created a culture of service

[1:47:17] where he often says, it doesn't matter if you're a CEO

[1:47:21] or an unchelted person in our emergency room,

[1:47:25] you're going to get the same level of service.

[1:47:28] And he means that as a result, he's attracted an amazing collection of talented physicians, nurses, practitioners, PA staff, who all believe the same way.

[1:47:39] Right?

[1:47:40] And as a result, white man is financially strong, profitable, and deliver some of the best if not the best healthcare services in the county today.

[1:47:50] But commissioners, health care is changing, and we need to be ready.

[1:47:54] We need to be ready for those changes.

[1:47:57] So, with that trust and weight med, and this leadership, including the board and Donald

[1:48:02] Jensig, they are all telling us that the time is right for a new partnership.

[1:48:09] A partner with the same cultural identity as ours who believes in serving all residents

[1:48:15] with compassion and care.

[1:48:17] Also, this partnership gives us access to new capital where we can continue to grow and expand

[1:48:23] our quality health care with services for every person in Wake County that we desperately

[1:48:28] need.

[1:48:29] So, our leadership is telling us that the time is now, the partner is atrium health and the

[1:48:36] opportunity is before us, like never before, and commissioners, I believe them.

[1:48:42] I believe at the end of the day, this decision will ultimately

[1:48:46] called, ultimately come down to trust leadership and partnerships.

[1:48:53] To that end, let's make it happen.

[1:48:56] Thank you, commissioners.

[1:48:58] Thank you.

[1:48:59] Next up is this, I think, L.C.

[1:49:02] Rehats, L.C.

[1:49:10] I'm seeing, next in, just got the initials, L.R.

[1:49:21] Curl and Craig,

[1:49:28] we back a more

[1:49:35] Michael Ruden in.

[1:49:48] Hello Board of Commissioners, my name is Michael Ruden, I'm from Raleigh, Citizen of Raleigh.

[1:49:53] So I prepared a statement that was essentially going to say,

[1:49:56] could we please have more time to deliberate this?

[1:50:00] And I look forward to the public comment process. Just a couple of thoughts that I wanted to share was a deeply

[1:50:06] value of the medical staff at WakeMed, their facilities and their overall quality of care. They've

[1:50:11] taken care of myself and my family members since late 2016, and both of my children were born at WakeMed

[1:50:17] Raleigh. Many of these comments are now not necessarily relevant, but what I would say is we would want

[1:50:24] make sure that any merger of WakeMad with Atrium relies as the benefits that they're promising.

[1:50:33] There's not a lot of details that were available over the weekend when this was announced.

[1:50:37] I think my biggest concern was, is this decision a one-way street and what would we lose

[1:50:43] if it didn't go well?

[1:50:45] So I look forward to the public comment process and learning more from the parties involved.

[1:50:51] But thinking about how to structure the deal in a way where maybe there's an off ramp or

[1:50:54] look back, period or some kind of measurable success, I think would be really important.

[1:51:01] And yeah, I just want to thank you for your time.

[1:51:04] Thank you.

[1:51:06] Damien

[1:51:20] Gu, this is my first time coming before Wake County Board of Commissioners.

[1:51:30] So thank you for welcoming me here.

[1:51:32] I actually came late, so I actually have no idea what is going on with the agenda and

[1:51:36] of not been here before, so this is Joe Procomment, but I've signed up for I know number

[1:51:45] 13, which is the Procumations requested, which I'm also not sure that works, but basically

[1:51:50] my comment that is wondering if there's a Procumation for, let's go, A.A.N.H.P.I. Heritage Month.

[1:52:06] That's

[1:52:06] really like it if there's one. So please consider that. And the second item I've signed

[1:52:13] up for was a number 16. I think I've heard that it's the votes for me delayed. Maybe not sure.

[1:52:22] I hope it's delayed. If it's not delayed, I hope you guys vote against it because I care a lot

[1:52:28] about health care, like a daughter of my doctors or

[1:52:34] a wake-med doctors, my primary care provider, is a wake-med doctor.

[1:52:39] And I've seen them in pretty much my entire life.

[1:52:46] As you can tell, I did not pay a speech because I had no idea how this works.

[1:52:53] I am familiar with some of you guys, because I am very active in the Wake-Cow and

[1:53:03] executive committee member, precinct 1801 vice-chair, which makes, so I have, I'm on the

[1:53:12] White County Democratic Party County Executive Committee, and I recognize some of your

[1:53:17] names because I voted to point some of you guys to our waters. Sophia Jackson, so it's good to

[1:53:27] ideas in person, not on Zoom,

[1:53:32] but I'm going sidetracked. So also do not like how, I mean,

[1:53:37] I do appreciate I'm doing minutes of time, but that's quite a lot of time.

[1:53:43] But basically,

[1:53:45] WakeMed is a public good that we need to keep, save, maintain. I think this merger with

[1:53:56] from him health. I might be good, but I'm not sure, but I don't like the process that which

[1:54:05] this seems to have come out nowhere, at least to the general public as come out nowhere. It seems

[1:54:11] like there have been lots of discussions between the people involved, but not the general public,

[1:54:18] So I do thank you guys for delaying the vote and thank you for hearing me.

[1:54:25] Thank you.

[1:54:28] Next, I'm the spectator of Mandrill,

[1:54:35] Victoria.

[1:54:40] Not seen her.

[1:54:42] Mary Dunbar,

[1:54:50] Ruby Floyd.

[1:55:08] Good evening commissioners and thank you for allowing me to speak. I'm addressing you tonight as a resident of

[1:55:12] Wake County. Also in Southeast Raleigh, right across from say Agnes Hospital, actually. I want to be clear that I support the continued growth and success of Wake Med. Even as someone who is only at three days

[1:55:23] of process this, not three years. I also understand that Wake Med may need the scale and resources that a system like HRM Health can provide. But growth and resources should

[1:55:33] that come at the expense of access to care for the community it serves.

[1:55:38] The amendment to the transfer agreement references preserving WakeMed's unique culture

[1:55:42] and commitment to serving all in the county.

[1:55:45] If that commitment is genuine, it must be clearly defined and enforceable.

[1:55:49] Today, WakeMed provides full financial assistance up to 300% of the federal poverty level.

[1:55:56] Atrium helps current policy provides full assistance only up to 200% of the federal poverty

[1:56:01] level with partial discounts above that.

[1:56:05] That is a meaningful difference.

[1:56:07] In Wake County, where the cost of living is roughly 16% higher than most of the state,

[1:56:12] many working families above the 200% of the federal poverty level are still struggling to

[1:56:17] afford basic needs.

[1:56:20] Federal poverty levels do not reflect local housing costs.

[1:56:23] In practical terms, 300% of the federal poverty level in Wake County functions more

[1:56:28] about 250% elsewhere in North Carolina.

[1:56:34] The transfer agreement also states that care must be provided

[1:56:36] without regard to their ability to pay.

[1:56:39] At the same time, this agreement relies on a 4.8%

[1:56:43] in-digit care requirement that is based on financial

[1:56:45] calculations, not clearly defined patient access.

[1:56:49] It does not specify what care must be provided,

[1:56:53] whether that includes primary care, specialty care,

[1:56:56] ongoing treatment, or just emergency services.

[1:56:58] So my question is simple, what protections are in place to ensure that patients of

[1:57:03] Wake County who can't afford care today will still be able to access the same level

[1:57:08] of care tomorrow, not just on paper, but in practice, because meeting a percentage is not

[1:57:14] the same as meeting the needs of this community.

[1:57:16] My request is straightforward.

[1:57:18] Before approval required that the full Wake Med Board of Directors all 14 have the authority

[1:57:24] to review, set, and approve patient financial policies, including financial assistance programs,

[1:57:30] discounted and sliding scale policies, and collection procedures, as well as any changes

[1:57:35] proposed by A-trium Health, and that current financial assistance standards remain intact.

[1:57:40] Thank you.

[1:57:41] Thank you.

[1:57:43] Next person, Adam, there was no last name, just Adam.

[1:57:52] Okay. Next, John Adcock.

[1:58:06] Mr. Chair Board of Commissioners, good evening. Thank you for this opportunity.

[1:58:09] I live in Southern White County in Holly Springs.

[1:58:12] Announced only Friday buried in a consent agenda for the following Monday

[1:58:15] without public engagement without evidence of any independent analysis

[1:58:18] without consultation with stakeholders.

[1:58:21] This board was prepared to approve a merger of white men that will have significant potential impacts

[1:58:26] to the health care provided to the residents of White County.

[1:58:29] This is not a strategic combination as described in the agenda materials, this is a merger,

[1:58:35] and notwithstanding the potential adverse impacts on health care and weight county, a merger

[1:58:40] that transfers significant control over a health care system that's purpose is to provide

[1:58:45] health care services to the residents of weight county.

[1:58:49] By way of example, under the proposed changes to weight meds governing documents, the county's

[1:58:55] appointments to the weight-med board of directors would be subject to a two-third vote by the

[1:59:01] weight-med board of directors, and require the accounting appointees to meet and maintain certain

[1:59:07] director-elgability qualifications. Atrium helps appointees to weight-med board of directors

[1:59:14] would not be subjected to the same conditions. If atrium health determines a weight-med director

[1:59:20] does not meet the director eligibility qualifications.

[1:59:24] Atrium Health can remove such director for calls.

[1:59:28] The county has no such power over atrium health,

[1:59:31] so point D's.

[1:59:33] WakeMed will be converted to a nonprofit with a member

[1:59:35] and the sole member will be atrium health.

[1:59:39] As the sole member atrium health will have the power

[1:59:42] to amend, wakeMed's articles of incorporation,

[1:59:45] and have all the powers entitled to a member

[1:59:49] of a non-profit under the North Carolina non-profit corporations act.

[1:59:53] Upon disillusion or termination of WakeMed, all of WakeMed's assets go to atrium health or any entity controlled.

[2:00:02] In regards to the $2 billion investment, atrium health intends to make, what if the new wakemed borrowers all are substantially all this money, and atrium health walks away from wakemed, under the proposed terms of this merger, wake County could potentially assume such debts. The board's planned action earlier today would transfer substantial control of wakemed without compensation.

[2:00:26] It ignores the diverse and wide-ranging implications and impacts of this merger.

[2:00:32] Fels to include any transparency, Fels to include any stakeholder involvement, and potentially

[2:00:38] could lead weight counting to taking on billions of dollars of debt if A3M health were

[2:00:43] to walk away.

[2:00:44] This transaction should not move forward without extensive public and stakeholder involvement,

[2:00:51] and expert in independent analysis to fully comprehend how this transaction will affect

[2:00:55] the health care system in the White County, the residents of White County, and the taxpayers of

[2:00:59] White County. My comments tonight are not in opposition to the proposed merger, but to the process

[2:01:05] that has got it to this point. Thank you. Thank you. And let me add also those y'all that had

[2:01:13] written statements or comments if you would like to lead them with our curtain before you leave. Please do so.

[2:01:21] Thank you, Terri, I want to sign up to speak during this general comment period.

[2:01:25] That completes the list of names that I was provided for this meeting.

[2:01:29] We also offer residents to opportunities to submit general comments online.

[2:01:33] This process is managed by the clerk.

[2:01:36] Let's give you what you kindly share in the online public comments that you received for

[2:01:41] this meeting.

[2:01:42] Yes, Mr. Chair.

[2:01:43] There were two comments about wigmed, not in-supported wigmed merger, and one to for you

[2:01:49] to support the transitional housing in the new budget. Thank you.

[2:01:53] Thank you, Ms. Gayart. We will now transition to our regular agenda. We only have one

[2:02:00] item on our regular agenda this afternoon is our county manager, David Ellis. We'll be

[2:02:06] making his budget presentation for the physical year of 2027.

[2:02:16] Can I officially request a break while we transition into the budget discussion?

[2:02:21] Yes.

[2:02:24] Okay.

[2:02:26] I have a motion to take a five minute break.

[2:02:30] Five minute break.

[2:02:31] Second.

[2:02:54] This is the ninth budget I presented to the board since I became County Manager.

[2:02:59] And I'll be honest, it's been the most challenging one yet.

[2:03:02] Our revenue is well below projections, and we've had to make tough decisions on what we can afford to fund

[2:03:08] without overburdening our residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

[2:03:13] My message to you today is different than in years past.

[2:03:16] It doesn't include many areas where our proposed making strategic investments.

[2:03:21] Instead, it will explain the many constraints on our funding for FY27

[2:03:24] and show you why fiscally cautious approach is necessary.

[2:03:30] The U.S. economy is volatile.

[2:03:32] One of the main reasons why is the conflict with Iran.

[2:03:35] A ceasefire is in place, but it's tenuous.

[2:03:39] The state of her moves is still not fully open, so about 20% of the world's oil supply

[2:03:44] is stuck.

[2:03:45] That's driving up prices at the pump here in Wake County.

[2:03:48] And I don't know about you, but the last time I filled up at Costume at $4 a gallon.

[2:03:53] Our inspectors and social workers drive a lot throughout the county, and the additional cost

[2:03:58] to fill up their county vehicles adds up quickly.

[2:04:00] We must account for the rising costs for gasoline in this budget.

[2:04:06] The war, tariffs, and other decisions made at the federal level are driving up inflation.

[2:04:12] In March, inflation hit 3.3 percent.

[2:04:15] That's up threefold from February. The largest such increase in nearly four years.

[2:04:20] As inflation rises, so do the prices of everyday items and services for all of us.

[2:04:25] The county feels depends each time we buy construction materials for our facilities, pay for health care coverage for our employees, and finalize contracts for security to keep our staff and residents safe.

[2:04:38] There's only so much cost escalation we can absorb, which is why we have to factor these increases into the FY27 budget.

[2:04:48] Inflation is also impacting consumers behavior.

[2:04:51] A survey about the University of Michigan found that the consumer

[2:04:54] sentiment has dropped to a record low of 47.6 percent.

[2:04:59] That's lower than...

[2:05:00] Any rates seen in a post-World War II era, including during the Great Recession, the pandemic, and

[2:05:06] historic inflation surge afterwards. Fears of stag, inflation, or another recession are growing.

[2:05:14] We're seeing the ripple effects. More people are coming away County Government for help.

[2:05:20] Some can go, some can no longer afford the basics. As public servants were dedicated to helping

[2:05:25] residents who can't meet their basic needs in this volatile economy.

[2:05:30] But the reality is that the more support we offer, the more it cost us.

[2:05:36] Perhaps in a typical year, these increased costs wouldn't be such a budgetary challenge.

[2:05:41] Unfortunately, as you know, 2026 is anything but typical.

[2:05:45] As you know, the property taxes are main source of revenue, and it comprises about 75%

[2:05:51] of our funding each year.

[2:05:53] We've come to expect the property tax to generate $40 to $50 million in new revenue annually from growth in the tax space.

[2:06:01] That's not the case for FY27.

[2:06:04] We're looking at only $8 million in new revenue.

[2:06:08] The property tax usually generates $40 to $50 million.

[2:06:12] In FY27, it's only $8 million and that's a significant difference.

[2:06:18] There are two main reasons why we're seeing this revenue shortfall.

[2:06:21] The first one is appeals. Each time we complete a evaluation cycle, folks can question the new value we place on their property.

[2:06:30] About 2% of property owners appeal to the county's Board of Equalization and Review, which is very low,

[2:06:36] and reinforces how accurate their praises are. But 2% in way county is still about 8900 appeals.

[2:06:44] Property owners who didn't receive the ruling they wanted from our board of E&R filed more than 1500

[2:06:50] appeals with the North Carolina Property Tax Commission. It's the highest number we've ever seen at that level.

[2:06:56] Most of the tax values and commercial properties which have trended downward in value.

[2:07:02] For context, appealing to the state as a lengthy process, it's very formal involves a lot of staff time and meetings.

[2:07:09] So, the pace of this process is not swift, and counties have no control over any of it.

[2:07:16] As of May there are still more than 750 open appeals,

[2:07:20] leave in a large amount of our tax space undetermined.

[2:07:24] It will take months for the remaining appeals to be processed.

[2:07:28] Millions more property tax dollars are still hanging in the balance.

[2:07:32] That unknown creates a lot of risk for the county.

[2:07:36] Overall, staff estimate a revenue loss of $18 million in FY27 from appeals.

[2:07:44] The other major factor in fluency in our property tax revenue short call is exemptions.

[2:07:50] Currently, state laws allow non-profits that provide housing to residents

[2:07:53] with low or moderate incomes to be exempt from paying property taxes.

[2:07:58] This is a good thing for our nonprofit partners who help connect people with affordable housing.

[2:08:02] But the law is vague, which can create issues when it's not used as it was likely intended.

[2:08:10] A great example is the North Carolina Court of Appeals in case involving Mitchell County,

[2:08:15] North Carolina, and the Blue Ridge Housing of Bakersville, LLC.

[2:08:23] The issue centered on ownership, the ownership structure of an apartment complex that house low-income folks.

[2:08:30] 99.9% of the apartment complex was owned by a four-profit investor.

[2:08:36] The remaining 0.1%, the remaining 0.1% was owned by a nonprofit.

[2:08:44] The owners applied for a property tax exemption from Mitchell County,

[2:08:48] and the county said no.

[2:08:50] So Blue Ridge Housing took the county to court.

[2:08:53] The court did a balancing test weighing factors like control of operations

[2:08:56] and intent of participating parties.

[2:09:00] Ultimately, the court decided that Blue Ridge Housing and the nonprofit

[2:09:03] but should be exempt from paying property taxes in Mitchell County, even though the non-profit

[2:09:09] had less than 0.1% ownership.

[2:09:12] The court also did not define what the law means when it says low and moderate income

[2:09:17] residents.

[2:09:19] The law's ambiguity has created a loophole and has significant implications for our revenues.

[2:09:26] You can see that over the past two years the number of exemptions has skyrocketed.

[2:09:31] Overall, FY27, we expect to lose $12.3 million to this loophole.

[2:09:38] And let's be clear, most of these are not what we would call traditional affordable housing.

[2:09:43] They're old apartment buildings that have been fully taxable for decades.

[2:09:47] The rents they charge to the tenants are already less than 80% of the area meeting income.

[2:09:52] And we've seen no sign that the apartment owners are passing the savings that they receive onto the residents.

[2:09:59] So here's a good example.

[2:10:00] This local apartment complex is 40 years old. In 2024, it was not exempt. Therefore, it represented more than $100 million in property value to our tax base. In 2025, it's a different story. The apartment complex reconfigured its ownership and qualified for a 70% exemption, leaving us with just little over $31 million in taxable value.

[2:10:28] This trend doesn't seem to be going away.

[2:10:29] If you look at the picture, or the picture up on the screen, it's a picture of applications for exemptions we received in FY27.

[2:10:39] Each envelope represents an apartment complex that the owners believe should not be taxed.

[2:10:45] In our tax administrators opinion, the growing number of exemptions is the biggest threat to the county's revenue that he could ever imagine.

[2:10:54] The North Carolina General Assembly formed a House Committee to discuss the Blue Ridge Housing

[2:10:59] Loophole and other property tax issues.

[2:11:02] Some members of public said they are committed to closing a loophole which is great and we

[2:11:07] support their efforts to clarify the statute so it can be applied as originally intended.

[2:11:12] On true affordable housing properties.

[2:11:16] However, if nothing changes and a loophole remains the same, that our largest revenue stream

[2:11:21] will remain a trickle in FY28.

[2:11:25] We could face significant financial impacts

[2:11:27] that will put our existing programs and services

[2:11:30] as well as education funding at risk.

[2:11:34] I'm not saying this to you all to be an alarmist,

[2:11:36] but it's my duty as county manager

[2:11:38] to share the realities of our budget situation with you

[2:11:42] as elected leaders so you can make informed decisions.

[2:11:47] A few weeks ago, the House Committee also recommended

[2:11:51] to cap on future property tax increases.

[2:11:54] They want to put a question on the November ballot,

[2:11:57] asking voters statewide if they want to change

[2:11:59] the North Carolina Constitution to limit how much

[2:12:02] local governments can increase the property tax each year.

[2:12:05] If it passed, it would take away local control over local budgets.

[2:12:11] The property tax is the only tax that county cities and towns

[2:12:15] have authority and discretion over.

[2:12:18] And it's our largest funding source.

[2:12:20] Putting limits on it would take away the flexibility we need to plan for the future as the third

[2:12:26] fastest growing county of our size in the nation.

[2:12:29] Let me repeat that.

[2:12:30] We're the third fastest growing county of our size in the nation.

[2:12:35] We don't have a crystal ball.

[2:12:37] We can't always see what's coming around the corner.

[2:12:40] As an example, no one predicted that we go through a global pandemic in 2020.

[2:12:46] Maintaining control over our top revenue source gives us options when the unexpected happens.

[2:12:52] It also allows us to prepare for the demands of growth and build a multi-year budget forecast

[2:12:58] that supports our residents and sustains the high quality of life they enjoy.

[2:13:05] A better way to keep the property tax low is where the state to increase its investment

[2:13:10] and it here is like education, public safety, and foster care that are chronically underfunded.

[2:13:17] Then county governments wouldn't have to step in and fill the financial gap.

[2:13:23] The White County Public School System Superintendent and the School Board come to the Board

[2:13:28] of County Commissioners every year asking for financial support because they have nowhere else

[2:13:34] to turn.

[2:13:35] Without our help, they can't pay staff sustainable wages or provide student support services.

[2:13:42] They also won't have the one nurse for every two schools, which are public health department staffs at a cost of $15 million.

[2:13:51] Our board believes that a top-notch education is vital to the success of Wake County's youth.

[2:13:58] Strong schools are also good for the local economy.

[2:14:02] Businesses want to expand in communities with a vibrant school system.

[2:14:07] That's why education is a top-local priority.

[2:14:10] We cannot allow our schools to falter.

[2:14:14] But it's not statutory our role.

[2:14:17] We're required to fund school construction, which comes out of our capital program,

[2:14:22] and facility maintenance, which comes out of our annual school appropriation.

[2:14:27] We're not required to fund employee pay increases, student support services, or anything else

[2:14:33] that improves school performance.

[2:14:36] That is the state's job, but we're not, but they're not doing it, and we've got the

[2:14:40] receipts.

[2:14:43] Look at the latest per pupil data.

[2:14:46] It shows the state invested only $7,400 in each way county student, ranking the school district,

[2:14:52] a 110th out of 116th. Compare that to the counties for people investment.

[2:15:00] Wait County Public Schools are in that same period. It was more than $4,300. The 15th highest in North Carolina. The difference is striking.

[2:15:12] Year after year, our investment in Wait County Public Schools grows. Because the state hasn't stepped up and fully funded K through 12 education.

[2:15:21] In FY26 alone, we could have saved nearly $530 million dollars, and avoided a property tax

[2:15:28] increase if the state had fulfilled its obligation and provided the school system with

[2:15:33] the funding it needed.

[2:15:36] The same goes for Wake Tech.

[2:15:37] We routinely invest county tax dollars in Wake Tech operations were increased in structure

[2:15:43] pay, new classroom technology, and more IT staff to oversee network infrastructure and security.

[2:15:51] Again, this goes beyond what General statute requires, but without it, the largest community

[2:15:57] college in the state and its students would not be successful.

[2:16:03] That's not what we want for weight tech, which trains the workforces of the global lifestyles

[2:16:08] companies across our region.

[2:16:11] If the state filled the gap instead of the county, it could save us about $8 million annually.

[2:16:17] Another place where we're spending county dollars on state responsibilities is our jail.

[2:16:23] It currently houses more than 100 inmates who should be in state custody.

[2:16:28] Do the staffing shortages of the state prison can't house them so they remain in county custody.

[2:16:34] If these inmates could go directly to prison, state prison,

[2:16:38] we would save $3 million a year, reducing jail operational costs and lowering demand for additional beds.

[2:16:47] The state also doesn't provide enough funding for resources to support false to you.

[2:16:52] Their needs are complex and their aren't enough false to families and treatment providers

[2:16:57] who have the skills to care for them.

[2:17:01] Because the state is not providing adequate placement for youth and need of treatment,

[2:17:05] Wake County is binding renovating the facility where they can be safely housed.

[2:17:11] You don't have a more appropriate amenities to mirror the feel of a home, and it will be

[2:17:15] much better solution than an office building.

[2:17:18] We've committed six and a half million dollars to buy and up fit the building and two and a half million dollars to staff and operate it.

[2:17:25] That's nine million dollars.

[2:17:27] We wouldn't have had to spend if the state better supported these youth and need.

[2:17:33] When it comes to sales tax, the state isn't doing us any favors.

[2:17:37] Wake County is the donor county.

[2:17:39] That means we're required to give up eight to nine million dollars in sales tax revenue every year,

[2:17:44] So, the state can redistribute it to other counties.

[2:17:50] We've added up all the areas where the county steps in and fills the budgetary holes left by the state.

[2:17:56] The total in FY26 was $600 million.

[2:18:03] If we didn't have to stand in that gap, we could have lowered property tax by 19 cents.

[2:18:10] Let me repeat that, if the state did its part, we could have lowered our property tax rate

[2:18:16] by 19 cent. That would have saved the owner of a $450,000 home, almost $900.

[2:18:26] And it's dependence on county support is only going to get worse. The one big beautiful

[2:18:32] bill is cutting federal funding to administer SNAP, a vital food assistance program by 25% and

[2:18:38] We're pushing the responsibility for funding the remaining 75% down to North Carolina counties, starting in FY 27.

[2:18:46] We'll lose about $3 million in reimbursements annually.

[2:18:51] The bill will also impose stricter requirements on Medicaid participants, starting in January,

[2:18:56] left to go through more research vacations and more work requirements checks to get benefits.

[2:19:02] The paperwork strain on counties will be tremendous.

[2:19:05] We plan to add 25 new positions in FY27, and our social services department, just to review and

[2:19:13] process that information on time.

[2:19:19] We have to spend more money to provide the same benefits to the 220,000 people enrolled in

[2:19:25] Medicaid in Wake County.

[2:19:28] We're taking on all this additional burden because we can't let local residents and families

[2:19:33] need go un-served. But another example of the state legislature and Congress, falling short

[2:19:39] of their fiscal responsibilities, and passing the buck to us.

[2:19:44] County taxpayers should be

[2:19:45] where should be aware of the financial burden the state is placing on them. The general assembly

[2:19:50] can reduce that burden by passing a budget that fully funds education, public safety, and social

[2:19:56] services, it will help us keep them.

[2:20:00] Property Tax Low, while ensuring our residents are healthy, safe, and supported.

[2:20:06] Unfortunately, we can't wait for the legislature to do the right thing.

[2:20:10] We have to make decisions based on current conditions.

[2:20:14] And so, therefore, I recommend investing $8 million we have in new property tax revenue in public safety for FY27.

[2:20:22] I propose creating 16 new EMT positions for Wake County EMS to meet the growing demand for service.

[2:20:28] As our population increases in ages, 9-1 calls for emergency medical care on the rise.

[2:20:36] Last year alone, they jumped by 4%.

[2:20:39] These new positions will ensure that every resident continues to get the help they need when they need it.

[2:20:46] I also recommend continuing to fund our fire services training manager position, which leads the recruitment and training of a new firefighters.

[2:20:53] We funded this important role in using American Recovery Plan Act or ARPERDOS, but since

[2:21:01] they're going to weigh in December, we're shifting our county dollars to cover the cost.

[2:21:05] The highly successful career in a year program launched in October of 2022, 53 graduates

[2:21:12] of the program continue to work in weight county keeping our community safe.

[2:21:20] Our largest public safety investment in FY27 will be expanding weight county's detention

[2:21:24] services. The jail population has increased steadily over the past few years, and some of

[2:21:31] that simply do to growth of our community, more people more crime, but as I previously

[2:21:36] mentioned, we're routinely housing more than 100 inmates who should be in state prison

[2:21:41] and not the county jail.

[2:21:44] Another issue is offenders are remaining in our custody for longer periods

[2:21:48] of time. The types of crime they're committing are more serious, and magistrates and judges

[2:21:53] are less likely to release them while they away trial.

[2:21:56] Our renaissance law, which went into effect in December, restricts bail for violent crimes

[2:22:00] in increases the length of stay for offenders.

[2:22:04] A lack of state funding and staffing shortages in a court system also slowed down the speed

[2:22:09] of justice.

[2:22:11] All of these factors increase the need for more beds.

[2:22:15] That's why we're reopening the jail annex.

[2:22:17] It led 240 beds to expand capacity.

[2:22:20] While we've already appropriated funding to renovate the annex before we open it, we will

[2:22:26] have new costs associated with opening of facility.

[2:22:31] In consultation with Sheriff Row, we're adding 92 detention positions to staff the annex

[2:22:35] and ensure safety with salary and benefits that will cost us about $7 million in FY27.

[2:22:42] It's a significant investment, one that state law requires the county to accommodate.

[2:22:48] Through recap, all of the county's property, county's eight million dollars in new property tax revenue is going to public safety, funding an additional investments like education will require a property tax increase.

[2:23:02] The biggest request for a financial support came from the Wake County Public Schools system.

[2:23:07] Superintendent Taylor's asking for $25.3 million in additional funding for FY27.

[2:23:14] That's on top of the $743 million we provided them in FY26 for facility maintenance and operating expenses.

[2:23:23] Although $768 million is a lot of money, it's necessary.

[2:23:28] Without it, the school district would have to make significant cuts that would impact students' ability to learn and achieve academically.

[2:23:37] Sadly, even though White County public school system is North Carolina's largest school district,

[2:23:42] it remains at the bottom of the state's list for per people funding from the General Assembly.

[2:23:49] No one wants to risk our children's success, and since the state has not fulfilled its responsibility

[2:23:54] to fully fund our schools, I recommend that we step in once again, so that the school district

[2:23:59] can continue to give students the excellent education they deserve.

[2:24:04] Wake Tech is also asked us for more funding in FY27 budget.

[2:24:09] Dr. Rawls and his team need $1.8 million to continue to support facility maintenance,

[2:24:15] pay IT and administrative staff, and cover rising utility costs.

[2:24:20] I propose providing these additional funds on top of the $42 million we gave them in FY26.

[2:24:26] That brings our FY27 investment in Wake Tech's operating to $44 million.

[2:24:34] Smart Start is the final education provider that requested additional funding in the FY27 budget.

[2:24:41] I recommend investing $2 million in this organization to support Wake 3 School for 3

[2:24:46] year olds and pre-K for 4 year olds who meet income requirements.

[2:24:51] These new dollars would be on top of the $8 million we invested in Smart Start in FY26.

[2:24:58] this 10 million dollar investment would.

[2:25:00] Bill funding gaps left by the state and at 15 new seats to wait 3 school. Currently more than 2,000 children

[2:25:08] are enrolled in these programs and 900 others are on a waiting list. If we don't step in and

[2:25:15] help, we risk our youngest, most vulnerable residents falling behind before they even get to kindergarten.

[2:25:23] In all my budget recommendation would invest $823 million in education for operating expense.

[2:25:29] expenses. That's about 65% and about 65% of that is directly due to the lack of financial

[2:25:37] support coming from the state.

[2:25:41] Looking ahead, county staff asked the board to continue meeting

[2:25:44] at statutory responsibility by placing a referendum on the November ballot for the school

[2:25:48] system in Wake Tech. To $830 million, the bonds would fund much the building construction,

[2:25:56] IT infrastructure, and facility maintenance.

[2:26:01] Just like our education partners are concerned

[2:26:03] about attracting and remaining, attracting and retaining top teachers, I'm also focused on recruiting

[2:26:09] the best employees and keeping them here at Wake County.

[2:26:12] And I can't do that if I can't provide competitive pay.

[2:26:16] Team Wake is more than 5,000 employees strong.

[2:26:19] Our staff is smart, skilled, and passionate about serving our 1.2 million residents every day.

[2:26:26] Our employees are essential to achieve an account of mission, meeting goals of your strategic

[2:26:31] plan and providing excellent customer service.

[2:26:35] Without them, we can make progress in critical spaces like affordable housing, public safety,

[2:26:40] social services, and public health.

[2:26:44] I want to remain competitive in how we pay our staff, not only is it the right thing to

[2:26:48] do, but as the county grows by 66 people a day, we can't afford to lose team members to

[2:26:54] another employer who pays better.

[2:26:56] That's why I recommend, in the FY27 budget, a market range adjustment and pay increase for

[2:27:02] team weight.

[2:27:03] Well, performing members would receive a 1 to 3 percent raise, while outstanding performance

[2:27:08] would get a 4 percent, a pay increase of up to 4 and a half percent.

[2:27:13] The new investment in education and county staff come with a cost.

[2:27:18] To find the additional funds, we scrubbed our ledgers, delayed some projects like the opening

[2:27:22] of Kellum Wyatt County Park.

[2:27:24] We also said no to about 40 budget expansion requests this year, totaling ten and a half million dollars.

[2:27:32] Items were not funding include food and logic, additional food and logic and inspectors to conduct more timely inspections

[2:27:39] of restaurants, hotels, childcare facilities, customer service representatives in social services to support rising call volumes.

[2:27:50] Environmental consultants to meet the increasing demand for

[2:27:53] septic system inspections in our fast growing community.

[2:27:57] And the food security pilot programs we launched during the

[2:27:59] pandemic with federal arpidolers.

[2:28:02] They served more than 3,400 people annually.

[2:28:07] While weight county is an urban area that some consider a fluent,

[2:28:11] more than 100,000 residents fall below the federal poverty line.

[2:28:16] And so let me just repeat that.

[2:28:18] more than 100,000 of our residents fall below the federal poverty line.

[2:28:23] We need every dollar to help support education, public housing, health, and public safety.

[2:28:31] In my eight years as county manager, I've never proposed using one-time funds to cover ongoing

[2:28:37] operating costs because it's not sustainable, but we're facing a unique property tax-based

[2:28:42] challenge.

[2:28:43] I'm hopeful the state legislature will do the right thing and fix the Blue Ridge loophole

[2:28:47] and other state funding gaps, and that's why I recommend using $35 million from our reserves

[2:28:53] to plug the hole in our general fund so we can continue county operations.

[2:28:59] Even with that one-time investment, we still need to increase the property tax rate in FY27

[2:29:04] by two cent to meet the needs of our growing community. That would raise the property tax rate

[2:29:09] to 53.71 cent and generated an additional 62 million $62 million dollars.

[2:29:17] As an example, the owner of a $450,000 home would see a $90 increase in their tax bill.

[2:29:26] Out of all 100 counties in North Carolina, 67 of them had a higher tax rate than Wake County

[2:29:32] did in FY26.

[2:29:34] Even with my proposed tax increase, Estimates Show will still be in the bottom third in FY27.

[2:29:41] My proposed FY27 budget told us $2 billion, $282 million in $21,000.

[2:29:49] It accounts for rising costs that stem from federal decisions, including the conflict in

[2:29:55] ran and tears on foreign goods. The recommended

[2:30:00] Budget also subsidized areas where state funding continues to fall short. It will support the growing

[2:30:05] needs of Wake County Public School System, Wake Tech, and Smart Start. And it will ensure the

[2:30:11] housing needs of foster youth and offenders in our jail or net.

[2:30:17] As a reminder, state leaders fully

[2:30:19] funded these areas and others under their purview, our property tax rate will be around 30 cent.

[2:30:25] Let me just repeat that one more time.

[2:30:28] Our property tax rate could drop to 30 cent if the state did its part.

[2:30:33] But by pushing financial responsibility to the counties, they're forcing their hand and

[2:30:38] causing us to raise your taxes.

[2:30:42] I also want to point out that for the last three years, this board has advocated to expand

[2:30:46] property tax relief for low-income residents, veterans, and elderly, and the state has

[2:30:51] been unresponsive.

[2:30:54] We invest in these important areas of many more because it's the right thing to do, and because it takes funding to move the needle on the goals and initiatives in your strategic plan.

[2:31:06] With this budget, we also commit to doing all we can to sustain our programs and services within our current fiscal constraints.

[2:31:16] Before I close out this presentation, I want to offer some words of warning about the FY28 budget.

[2:31:24] If the state doesn't close the Blue Ridge loophole and the state caps the property tax, we will have to make cuts.

[2:31:33] That could look like reducing operating hours for certain programs, scaling back certain program investments, and potentially cutting funding for education.

[2:31:43] These are not steps I want to take and I know they're not steps you want to take either.

[2:31:47] The good news is there's still time to prevent them from happening if the state acts accordingly.

[2:31:55] Just want to take a brief moment to thank the budget and management services department.

[2:32:01] We're going to group in the past very back and back.

[2:32:12] They worked extremely hard in this proposal.

[2:32:15] We spent some late evenings trying to get the budget balanced.

[2:32:20] And they just did a Yeoman job and really appreciate this effort.

[2:32:23] I also want to applaud the staff and the county managers office for their leadership and everything that they've done in the decision-making process, your time, energy and thoughtfulness have resulted in a data-driven recommendation that we presented today.

[2:32:39] And so now I want to switch a little bit and talk about the next steps in the budget process.

[2:32:44] We hope residents are watching the live stream and following our social media because their thoughts and feedback on this recommendation are important.

[2:32:51] So, starting tonight, they can submit comments on our website,

[2:32:55] weight.gov slash budget.

[2:32:58] On May 11th, we'll hold a board work session dedicated to

[2:33:01] the proposed budget at 2 p.m.

[2:33:03] at the Wake County Justice Center.

[2:33:05] Later, that evening, we'll hold our first

[2:33:07] budget public hearing at 7 p.m.

[2:33:09] at the Wake County Commons building.

[2:33:12] Our second budget public hearing will take place on May 18th

[2:33:15] during the board's regular 2 p.m. meeting.

[2:33:18] The public can submit online comments through May 20th.

[2:33:22] We'll provide every comment we receive to the commissioners for review.

[2:33:26] On May 21st, the board will hold a second budget work session to consider public feedback,

[2:33:31] and identify any changes to the recommended budget for consideration on June 1st.

[2:33:37] And that's the day I'll bring the proposed budget to you for a vote during the regularly scheduled 5pm board meeting.

[2:33:44] As always, the materials that explain what's in the FY27 budget are on our website.

[2:33:50] Wake.gov slash budget and we encourage you to read through them and learn how funding

[2:33:55] allocations will move the strategic plan forward.

[2:33:58] And you'll see why our vision statement says we're passionate about these proactive

[2:34:02] purposeful investments in our community.

[2:34:05] So I want to thank you for your time and your consideration today.

[2:34:09] And that's it.

[2:34:10] Thank you.

[2:34:11] Thank you, Manager Ellis.

[2:34:22] Okay, board members, there's a need to,

[2:34:26] motion to construct the county and manage to organize a process

[2:34:29] for receiving virtual public comments on the recommend

[2:34:32] the budget and to hold public hearing

[2:34:34] and budget work session on the dates provided

[2:34:36] and to consider the budget for adoption

[2:34:38] at the June 1st Board of Commission meeting.

[2:34:41] So, is there a motion to approve this action?

[2:34:44] Mr. Chairman.

[2:34:46] Here, who's made a motion?

[2:34:48] Susan, so moved.

[2:34:49] No, commission.

[2:34:51] Even, there we go.

[2:34:52] Second, uh, about commission times.

[2:34:54] I was going to read the entire motion for the record.

[2:34:57] But that's fine if you are okay with me not.

[2:35:00] No, go ahead, please. I think it's important. I move that the Board of Commissioners received the recommended fiscal year,

[2:35:07] 2027 budget for consideration and approves the following. Number one, instructs the county manager to organize a process for receiving virtual public comments on the recommended budget and number two,

[2:35:17] holds a public hearing on the budget on a Monday, may 11th at 7 p.m. in the wake commons building and b Monday, may 18th at 2 p.m. in the wake county justice center.

[2:35:27] and number three holds budget work sessions on Monday, May 11th at 2 p.m. and Thursday, May 21st at 9 a.m. in the Wake County Justice Center room 2800 and number four considers the budget for adoption on Monday June 1st during the Board of Commissioners regular meeting, which begins at 5 p.m.

[2:35:49] Thank you. Thank you. I'll second that. Okay, we've got a motion. Commission Thomas, a second

[2:35:55] amount of commission. It is. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Any pose, please say nay. Not

[2:36:02] here and in the motion carries. Thank you. Now, let's move on to appointments. Madame Vice Chair

[2:36:11] Jackson, does the Board of Commission have any appointments to make to the Assistant Advisory Board

[2:36:15] our commission at this time? Yes, we do.

[2:36:23] All

[2:36:26] right. Yes, Chair, there are several appointments

[2:36:30] that need to be made. I therefore move that the Board of Commissioners appoints the following

[2:36:35] individuals to the respective boards or commissions for the terms as set forth below.

[2:36:43] Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee,

[2:36:47] One Reappointment, Kay Costillo,

[2:36:51] and One Resignation, William Lam.

[2:36:55] City of Raleigh Dix Park Commission, One vacancy,

[2:36:58] and One Recommendation Made for Damian Circausta

[2:37:02] to fill the vacancy.

[2:37:06] The Energy Advisory Commission is One Reappointment

[2:37:10] of Jeffrey Lippard,

[2:37:11] And one term completion of Larry Nunnery.

[2:37:17] The juvenile crime prevention council, with two vacancies,

[2:37:21] one with Parks and Rec, Parks and Rec,

[2:37:25] Designee, and one chief of police local, Designee.

[2:37:29] And then one reappointment of Dwayne Holder County Manager, Designee.

[2:37:35] We have the nursing home community advisory committee with six

[2:37:39] three appointments, Anne Schick, Sarah Lynn Raher, Carol Derembacher, Bennett Cotton, Sandra Dutches,

[2:37:51] Anne Marilyn House.

[2:37:53] We have the town of Apex Planning Board with one vacancy for the ETA and one recommendation

[2:38:00] received by the town of Apex for Mark Spernale to fill that seat.

[2:38:09] Mr. Chair, I restate my motion that the Board of Commissioners appoint the following individuals to their respective boards and commissions.

[2:38:19] Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. We have a motion. Is there a second?

[2:38:23] I'll suck at that.

[2:38:25] Okay, we have a motion by a commission. Jackson, a second by a commission. Addison. All in favor, please say aye.

[2:38:32] All those opposed, please say no, not hearing any, the motion passed.

[2:38:41] Then before we move on, Vice Chair Jackson, please let us know which vacancy will be coming

[2:38:45] up for next month.

[2:38:47] Yes, I'm happy to name those and also encourage everyone to please constantly check our website

[2:38:53] for available opportunities.

[2:38:56] What we have coming up in June is the agricultural advisory board with six re-appointments,

[2:39:02] the Capitol area workforce development with nine reappointments and two term completions.

[2:39:08] The City of Raleigh Design Review Commission, one ETJ vacancy,

[2:39:14] the City of Raleigh Planning Commission, one term completion and one recommendation.

[2:39:19] Durham Wake Counties Research and Production Service District Advisory Committee,

[2:39:25] three reappointments, domestic violence fatality review team, three reappointments,

[2:39:32] Fire Commission, one reappointment, and one term completion.

[2:39:37] Industrial facilities and pollution control financing authority, one reappointment.

[2:39:43] The Library Commission, three reappointments.

[2:39:47] Open space and parks advisory committee, a district five vacancy.

[2:39:52] Wake Technical Community College, Board of Trustees, one reappointment,

[2:39:56] and Windale planning and zoning with one reappointment.

[2:40:03] That's it. Thank you, Madam Vice. Now we'll move on to other business commissioners. We didn't

[2:40:13] want to share an update from a adviser, a regional board that you are appointed to.

[2:40:20] Commissar

[2:40:20] Waters.

[2:40:24] I want to salute Wakehead partnership for the recent symposium that was held on Friday

[2:40:30] May 1st, which was an opportunity to uplift great work that is happening in our public schools

[2:40:36] and also want to talk about the great work that they do year round to help ensure that

[2:40:44] educators have classrooms supplies I was able to go out to tools for schools. Recently,

[2:40:50] where North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls was also volunteering and see educators

[2:40:56] from schools all across Wake County at the elementary middle and high school come out for resources

[2:41:03] that are critical to ensure that kids finish the school you're strong and so they are continuing

[2:41:09] to do that work and just put a plug that they do have an Amazon wish list out there that helps

[2:41:14] resource our school so thank you. Thank you in any other board members, commission of

[2:41:21] and then commission addison thank you chair just some public health and behavioral health

[2:41:26] updates we had our quarterly weight county drug overdose prevention coalition meeting

[2:41:31] recently and that was to get updates on the overdose prevention work that's going on in

[2:41:36] the county and that was hosted by our staff and many community partners were there and

[2:41:40] good news is we are moving in the right direction with drug overdoses they are decreasing

[2:41:44] we're still not where we need to be but we are moving in the right direction

[2:41:48] And just to add that on June 24th, we'll have our annual OPRD settlement community meeting at the McKimmons Center, June 24th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and be taking a deep dive into our OPRD settlement work.

[2:42:01] Thank you.

[2:42:01] Thank you, Commissioner Staldon, Commissioner Addinson.

[2:42:05] Yes, thank you.

[2:42:07] I attended the our convention and visitors bureau board had their monthly meeting at the ribbon cutting for the omni,

[2:42:15] which is very exciting that we are cut the ribbon, it'll be 600 rooms and over 50,000 square feet

[2:42:26] of meeting space, it'll be a great asset for downtown. And at the same time, we cut the ribbon,

[2:42:34] we turned the dirt for the Omni, but we cut the ribbon on the new Plaza in front of the Mark

[2:42:44] ability challenges. There is a driveway where you can be dropped off very close to the door.

[2:42:52] You don't have to park and walk or park in the street like you do now. So that'll make it

[2:42:57] much easier for our mobility challenge residents to attend events there. And it's also very pretty.

[2:43:04] They completely redid it and it doesn't look anything like what we remember. And they actually had

[2:43:12] some students who designed the flowers and the gardening there, and of course it's all native

[2:43:20] plants. And it was really nice to meet the folks from Omni. I think they're going to

[2:43:27] be great partners of ours going forward. We had our monthly live well-wake action team meeting,

[2:43:33] and it was a lot of questions about funding because WakeMed is a big funding partner and what

[2:43:46] will happen to that and they also received some omnipotent.

[2:43:50] I mean, some ARPA money.

[2:43:53] And I went to Phoenix with the Raleigh Chamber for their inner city visit and Phoenix and

[2:44:00] I always learned a lot when I go to those.

[2:44:02] It was very good.

[2:44:04] I visited some of their homelessness facilities.

[2:44:08] And it was good to see how they support.

[2:44:12] Because their five times bigger than us.

[2:44:15] And their homeless population is about 10,000,

[2:44:19] which is in line with five times hours.

[2:44:22] So it was good to see that.

[2:44:24] Thank you.

[2:44:25] Thank you.

[2:44:26] Commissioner Hasn't commissioned Jackson.

[2:44:29] Yes, okay, I just have one report for advisory and regional boards, but when we circle back to other reports, I'd like to circle back to that.

[2:44:39] Okay, regarding the advisory board and regional board, I want to share passage home, just completed their most recent workforce development cohort.

[2:44:51] This was their fourth, and I was able to attend the culminating celebration, and it was just a mix.

[2:45:05] So, I'm just here to let you know that passage home is thriving, is really helping neighbors in our community, and to also lift up that they were able to secure

[2:45:19] as the keynote speaker, and if you all haven't, I see some nods, he was there to inspire and speak into the cohort members.

[2:45:31] And so we're just really proud of what the new leadership at Passochrome has been able to do.

[2:45:37] We were just celebrating as a board, just the progress that's been made over the last year significant progress to a vital community asset in our community.

[2:45:48] And just to let you all know, they will have another cohort kicking off at the end of May at the end of this month and they are often looking for folks to come and be trainers and contribute to the content.

[2:46:02] So this is an invitation for my fellow board members and the public that passage home is looking to connect the members of their cohort with different kinds of experiences and other folks within our community.

[2:46:16] so please reach out to Passage Home. I know I am going to contribute. So thank you and just very

[2:46:22] happy to bring back such good news on behalf of that board. Thank you Madam Vice Commissioner

[2:46:29] Ednis, I believe that you had on the other. Just yet under general items activities,

[2:46:39] the most exciting of which was on Tuesday April 21st, Wake County hosted housing symposium,

[2:46:47] I was delighted to be able to attend that day.

[2:46:51] There were many, many non-profit partners,

[2:46:54] many municipal partners there.

[2:46:58] And we spent the day hearing from a variety of different panels

[2:47:02] of folks who had expertise in different areas

[2:47:05] that were all very insightful and good partnerships

[2:47:12] were melded through the collaboration that took place that day.

[2:47:17] So hats off to our housing and community revitalization director Morgan Mansa and her staff

[2:47:22] who pulled that together, I've heard nothing, but accolades for the event since.

[2:47:29] Also on the 23rd, I participated in the ribbon cutting for the Birch and Branch apartment

[2:47:35] neighborhood in East Raleigh and that's a great place that has now opened that will be providing

[2:47:43] affordable housing. I think for a couple of hundred apartments and the county was a partner

[2:47:50] funder on that project so it's always good to see those things when they finally get built and

[2:47:56] also attended one of my favorite events of the year which is the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the

[2:48:05] our boys and girls clubs in Johnson and White Counties, selects a leader that they put forth

[2:48:13] for the year.

[2:48:14] Many of these folks are getting ready to go to college or their juniors in high school and

[2:48:20] they give speeches and we get to hear from them and they're just so amazing and get

[2:48:26] to share about what are the different boys and girls clubs have made in their lives.

[2:48:30] It's always a heartwarming event and we appreciate our partnership with the boys and girls

[2:48:34] club. On the 25th, I was privileged to participate in an event with a rise collective,

[2:48:42] a rise collective is a nonprofit that does work, helping formally incarcerated women

[2:48:48] very acclimate into the community, providing a lot of different support services and the events.

[2:48:53] The event they had that day was at Dix Park and it was highlighting an art project called

[2:49:00] stitching stories, and it was a compilation of art pieces that originated when 62 women

[2:49:10] together in prison worked on crocheting things that represented their life time experiences,

[2:49:19] and then it's now being re-designed into a traveling mosaic tile art thing.

[2:49:29] So if you see an opportunity to visit and see the stitching stories, revisit, reimagined

[2:49:36] art exhibit, please, you'll find that very inspirational.

[2:49:42] And I also participated on the Raleigh Chamber intercity visit to Phoenix last week and

[2:49:48] always good to hear about what other cities are doing that are growing like we are and always

[2:49:56] good networking with business partners and none.

[2:50:00] Profit partners and all the folks that go alone on that trip. Thank you.

[2:50:04] Thank you, Commissioner Nevin. Commissioner Jackson. Okay, yes, and other business. A couple of exciting things.

[2:50:14] Since the last time we were together, one wants to acknowledge some activity going on in the faith community in Wake County.

[2:50:22] and want to recognize the United Holy Church of America celebrating 140 years getting started

[2:50:30] here in Wake County and having a legacy in history. It was a pleasure to meet members

[2:50:37] of that community. And then the very next day to support you chair mile with the preservation

[2:50:43] ceremony of good hope. I'll let you speak a little more to that. But it was just wonderful

[2:50:48] to be part of both of these longstanding faith communities because we know how important those

[2:50:53] communities are to sustaining the well-being of our community and our county.

[2:50:59] Also want to acknowledge that I've got to hang out with some farmers. You all may not know I live in

[2:51:05] well, it might be a battle. The most rural part of the county, but it was just a joy to be able to

[2:51:12] visit some of the farmers in Southern Wake County and really get connected to the challenges that they're facing and their perseverance and the way they are pivoting and also an important contribution to our community.

[2:51:27] So faith community to farms then to the high school was able to cross paths with commissioner stallings at Green Hope High School.

[2:51:40] seniors who are thinking about civic engagement, economics, and their role in it.

[2:51:47] It's just a wonderful opportunity to be there and to hear their thoughts, to provide and

[2:51:52] share experiences that we're having as commissioners and just a wonderful opportunity.

[2:52:00] Last, the trails, triangle trails held a summit last week that was just a great reminder

[2:52:06] of one of the key things that make Wake County so wonderful and that's our open space and

[2:52:14] greens, green cannabies and trails and everything like that and it was just wonderful to meet

[2:52:19] members of that community that have worked long and hard to get to 300 miles of trails in Wake

[2:52:27] County and to be thinking about what trails can do to transform the triangle area more broadly.

[2:52:33] So, that wraps it up in terms of what I'd like to highlight for other business.

[2:52:40] Thank you.

[2:52:41] Thank you.

[2:52:42] Commissioner Stalinis.

[2:52:49] I didn't want to go before you because you hadn't had a chance yet.

[2:52:52] So, just an attestation of so many wonderful things going on in our counties.

[2:52:57] I'll just highlight a couple of additional ones housing.

[2:53:01] We continue to have houses come out of the ground.

[2:53:04] I was, we're still chipping away.

[2:53:06] We're going to keep chipping away at housing needs.

[2:53:08] So I had an opportunity to provide some remarks with the Southeast Raleigh Promise groundbreaking

[2:53:13] on April the 24th and that's going to be 25 mixed-income rental homes across non-properties

[2:53:19] here in Raleigh.

[2:53:21] So it was a wonderful event and glad to be a part of that.

[2:53:24] I'm going to be part of a mental health test force that's just launched in apex called the

[2:53:28] peak resilience and well-being task force.

[2:53:31] So we are peak has to be in the name because apex is considered the peak of good living.

[2:53:36] at peak isn't almost everything in apex. But really looking forward to this, we're launching

[2:53:41] this task force to create awareness and support for people dealing with any kind of stressors

[2:53:47] or mental health challenges from mild to moderate to severe. And in honor of mental health,

[2:53:51] awareness month, which is in May, we will be having our first community event on May to the

[2:53:55] 29th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the apex. Senior Center, Nami will be our keynote speaker and we'll have

[2:54:06] to help needs and to also be a number of community resources there available for the public as well.

[2:54:11] So looking forward to that work that will probably go for about one to two years in apex.

[2:54:16] Yes. And Earthfest was in apex on April the 25th was fun to be there.

[2:54:23] And also Ms. Mackie and colleagues from Green Hope always invite us every semester to go and visit with their high schoolers.

[2:54:30] It is such an engaging, wonderful time and I'm always my hope is renewed whenever I'm with our young people.

[2:54:35] It is such a good time and I believe that is it on updates from my end.

[2:54:41] Thank you.

[2:54:42] Commissioner.

[2:54:43] Commission Warders.

[2:54:45] I want to highlight that May is foster care awareness month and lift up children who are

[2:54:52] in our care and all those who do work to ensure their safety and to ensure stability.

[2:55:00] Our lives. I also want to lift up nurses appreciation week. As a sister of a nurse, the critical work that nurses do is unmatched in service. And lastly, I want to lift up teacher appreciation week. I see a couple of our fine educators in the room with us this evening. And I want to really salute all the educators that came downtown on May 1st to give voice to the needs of students across our state.

[2:55:28] It was quite an emotional experience and unfortunate that it is required to get the minimum

[2:55:34] and basic needs that our public schools require but really grateful for all who took their time

[2:55:39] to come out and advocate for our children like my own.

[2:55:43] And particularly was meaningful to see so many signs advocating for funding for special education

[2:55:48] and that is my lived experience.

[2:55:50] So thank you to all educators for the work that you do day in and day out.

[2:55:54] and also appreciate the opportunity to have attended the North Carolina Foundation for public school children.

[2:56:01] Gala along with Commissioner Adams and Evans and to lift up the important work that that foundation does to feel critical gaps that we may not realize exists

[2:56:12] when our public school system I was taking a back to learn that some of our school children are often missing a school

[2:56:19] because of health assessments and then also the barriers for things like hearing aids that are addressed

[2:56:24] by the organization, so I really appreciate the work that goes on there, and I appreciate

[2:56:29] also being able to be a part of the ligand legacy committee, along with ligand, a low cheer

[2:56:34] mile to ensure that we have opportunity to weigh in on such a special and unique project that

[2:56:41] is critical to our community.

[2:56:43] And, lastly, I had a chance to attend my first Kentucky Derby event, which was a fundraiser

[2:56:48] for Violet Love, which is supporting women and girls in North Carolina Sierra Leone and Ghana

[2:56:56] and was quite impressed to see our own share of Roe and Roseville Mayor Ronnie Keren.

[2:57:03] They're in support and dressed to the nines and celebrating and supporting needs of vulnerable

[2:57:09] communities.

[2:57:10] And so great things are always happening in a way and glad to be a part of those.

[2:57:15] Thank you, Commissioner Waters, thank commission Jackson, you had another item you wanted to add.

[2:57:22] Yes, a couple of things that I missed adding. One, I want to recognize that this week kicks off small business week

[2:57:32] and we know how vital small businesses are to our community and to our economic vitality.

[2:57:38] So come to Southern Wake County and shop at some of the small businesses there and I'm sure

[2:57:45] you will be delighted.

[2:57:46] I also want to acknowledge that the comment period is open for public libraries.

[2:57:51] I know I've been sharing and posting and encourage many, everybody to weigh in and tell

[2:57:59] us what our public libraries should be and what your needs are and what's working for you.

[2:58:04] And then lastly, in the name of acknowledging milestones and celebrations, one acknowledged

[2:58:10] a North Carolina Black Alliance for celebrating their 20th year, it was a wonderful time

[2:58:16] and they continue to do good work mobilizing in our state.

[2:58:21] So I want to just say acknowledge their milestone as well.

[2:58:27] And that wraps it up for me.

[2:58:29] Thank you.

[2:58:29] Thank you, Commissioner.

[2:58:30] that I can commission add in some?

[2:58:33] Yes, I was just going to mention that Commissioner Waters and Evans and myself were at the North Carolina Foundation for Public School Gala.

[2:58:41] And one of the things they also do is when the state of North Carolina cut the funding for the teacher cadet programs they picked it up.

[2:58:50] So we got to meet these lovely young people who are in high school who aspire to be teachers.

[2:58:57] And it's really heartwarming to see those.

[2:59:04] Thank you.

[2:59:04] Commission Thomas.

[2:59:06] Thank you Chairman.

[2:59:08] There are lots of things going on and while I will not update you on all the things I have been at this week.

[2:59:13] We are talking a lot about recognition and so I do want to acknowledge that this week may third through May 9th

[2:59:20] is professional clerks to the Board of County Commissioners and I want to shout out as manager Ellis talked about our staff and how important it is

[2:59:27] for Team Wake to be recruited and retained.

[2:59:32] I did want to shout out all of the hard work that I work

[2:59:34] clerk and our deputy clerk do.

[2:59:37] They are models for, they both serve with the association

[2:59:40] and they are models for other clerks across the state.

[2:59:43] So thank you both for all of the work you do

[2:59:45] and all of the recognition I want it to make sure

[2:59:47] that we acknowledge and recognize them.

[2:59:49] Thank you, sir.

[2:59:55] Thank you.

[2:59:56] Any other comments?

[3:00:00] Okay, I'm just going to add a couple of things, which a lot of us have already been mentioned, of course, the boys and girls event.

[3:00:09] There's something that we attend every year, which is always a great event. I enjoy attending and listening to what the kids have done in terms of their aspiration.

[3:00:18] And some of the hardships that they have experienced. Some of the stores you hear from those kids is just unbelievable.

[3:00:24] but they able to persevere and they able to move forward, which gives us a lot of hope in terms of where our communities had it.

[3:00:32] Also, great trip to Phoenix.

[3:00:35] In the time we're able to go on the inner city trip,

[3:00:38] we always learn so many different things that are going on in other parts of the country

[3:00:42] that helps us when we come back home to try to make good sound decision.

[3:00:47] And I know Commissioner Waters did not talk much about it,

[3:00:50] She did a great speech there for the housing out there at Birch.

[3:00:56] I think that would add 180 more units to that.

[3:01:01] I don't know if it was several of us there,

[3:01:02] because the Commissioner Thomas Commissioner Evans and myself was there,

[3:01:06] which is great.

[3:01:08] And of course, on yesterday, I had the pleasure of giving the speech there

[3:01:13] for the historical proclamation there for the VFW 148.

[3:01:18] and also the historical recognition of good hope Baptist Church.

[3:01:24] And I must confess it was a great well-attended event.

[3:01:29] And of course I have my colleague there, Commissioner Jackson.

[3:01:32] She always added a pleasure there and had a chance.

[3:01:35] And for those of you that did not know I was not aware.

[3:01:39] That was my home church.

[3:01:41] And so the church was 162 years.

[3:01:45] And to have the opportunity to bring green number half of this board for me was just awesome to be there and have my mom there have my dad's last sibling, my dad's first cousin, and all of these in Vietnam talk about my dad's mom is 97, my uncle he's 92, and my cousin was 98, so to have that type of history there.

[3:02:14] And to be honest, it was just an awesome event yesterday.

[3:02:18] And sure, Willa Roe was there as well.

[3:02:20] Cause he has family on that event as well.

[3:02:22] So it was just a great home coming there for everyone yesterday.

[3:02:26] So I just want to say thank you for all those that was had a part in that.

[3:02:30] And of course, to our calm staff, you guys always do a great speech.

[3:02:34] And now, gosh, I hope I delivered it and a respectful man.

[3:02:38] But you guys, we definitely appreciate what you do.

[3:02:40] that just speaks volume of what team wait does, whether it's in our comms, whether it's in our

[3:02:46] county area, whether it's in our turn as office, we just got a great team in a special hour clerks.

[3:02:52] Because you got seven of us that you all try to keep up with and I know it's like hurting cats at

[3:02:57] time, but we just want to say thank you. Really, really thank you for what you all do to support us as

[3:03:04] what we do throughout the year.

[3:03:08] Okay.

[3:03:09] Now, Mr. ASCQ, is there a need for a closed session today?

[3:03:14] No, Mr. Chair, there is not.

[3:03:16] Let's go.

[3:03:19] I'll take it that was a gli-a-hope there.

[3:03:22] Thank you for everyone.

[3:03:25] Thank you.

[3:03:26] Thank you, Mr. Attorney.

[3:03:28] Yes.

[3:03:30] Yes, David, I'm sorry, Mr. Manager.

[3:03:32] I just want to take a moment, this is also a public service recognition week and give a shout out to all the members of team

[3:03:38] week and all for everything they do to keep this county moving forward. So thank you all.

[3:03:49] Okay, so thank you everyone. That concludes our agenda for today. The voice next

[3:03:54] relevant meeting is scheduled for Monday and May 18 at 2 p.m. Do I have a motion to adjourn?

[3:04:00] I don't want you to adjourn.

[3:04:02] In a second.

[3:04:04] Hi.

[3:04:06] In a second.

[3:04:07] In a second.

[3:04:08] In a second.

[3:04:10] OK.

[3:04:11] It was so many of y'all there.

[3:04:13] Who made the motion?

[3:04:14] Who?

[3:04:14] We've got to hit you.

[3:04:15] You got it.

[3:04:17] All in favor?

[3:04:19] Hi.

[3:04:22] Anyone opposed?

[3:04:24] Not hearing in.

[3:04:26] I just have it.

[3:04:28] Meeting adjourned.

Regular Meeting May 4 2026 5:00 PM - Budget Presentation - FINAL

Agenda

Transcript