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Stream test May 4th.

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We'd like to call this meeting to order. So please stand for the pleasure of the

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legions, and then remain standing for the invocation by me. Thank you.

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You please remain standing for the invocation.

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I will pray and you worship and manage you so

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see fit. But I graciously and Heavenly Father, we come to you this evening. We come to

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as your humble service. We come to you and prayer asking you to guide us to do the

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people's business. So that's just what you have for our bestowed upon us. And we

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continue to ask you to guide us as we move forward in everything that we do and your

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humble name, amen.

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Again, good afternoon everyone and welcome to our today's meeting.

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We'll

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who approved agenda commission. Addison, did you wish to be heard?

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

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rules of procedure. Item 16 of the consent agenda be removed from the consent agenda for separate

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consideration before a vote on the consent agenda. So moved. Second. Do we vote on this one?

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Yes, okay is the motion been made to the gender to be a minute is a motion

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I was made by commissioner

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

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Gender police eye hi, all those opposed police in there

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So the motion carries

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Now, I would like to have a motion for approval of the minutes of April to 6, 2026, the

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work session of April 6, 2026, and the work session of April 13, 2026 is their

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motion to approve the minutes.

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I move approval of those minutes.

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Second.

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Okay.

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We have a motion by commission of dollars and a second by commission of dollars.

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All in favor, please say aye.

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Aye.

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All those opposed, please say no.

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I'm not hearing any?

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The eyes have.

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My, excuse me.

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Could you go back and do the full vote for the approval of the agenda?

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You just amended an item, but you didn't approve the full agenda.

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Okay.

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Let's go back then.

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Can I get a motion to approve the agenda as amended?

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Motion to approve the agenda as amended.

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Okay.

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We've got a motion by Commissioner Wardest to approve.

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Second by Vice Chair, Jackson, all in favour?

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Any opposed?

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Not here and in, the motion carries.

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The minutes at pass and the next thing we will have is a

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Proclamation for National Police Week and Commissioner Addison will be

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didn't that read that proclamation.

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I will read the proclamation and we're very honored to have our

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sheriff's activities here today for national law enforcement

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month. We appreciate everything y'all do and keep in

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us safe in this county in the service you provide.

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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.

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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.

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And whereas the members of our law enforcement agencies play an essential role in safeguarding

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the rights and freedoms of all those who live work and visit Wake County, and members

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of law enforcement recognize their duty to serve the people of North Carolina by safeguarding

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life and property by protecting against violence and disorder and by protecting the innocent

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against deception in the week against oppression or intimidation.

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Whereas our nation of Zerv's law enforcement officers week and police officers memorial

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day during the month of May, and whereas throughout May, law enforcement agencies and other

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business organizations and individuals will hold appropriate events in ceremonies across

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North Carolina, to celebrate the selfless public servants who wear the badge and put themselves

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in harm's way to keep us safe.

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And on peace officer Memorial Day, we pay respect to those who have lost their lives in

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the line of duty and recognize with deep gratitude, the critical contributions and sacrifices

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of all law enforcement officers and their families.

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This includes the 24-Fall-in-Wate County Law Enforcement Officers, and whereas, during this

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month and throughout the year, Wate County commends our members of law enforcement and

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honors their purage and dedication.

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Now therefore, be it resolved that the Wate County Board of Commissioners does sheerbach

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proclaim may tent through the 16th, 2026, its National Police Week. It may 15th, 2026,

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its Peace Officers Memorial Day, and urges the residents of our community and communities

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across the county to remember the officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.

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And to thank those who still wear the badge. By lighting homes, businesses and landmarks

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to honor the memory of the fallen and in solidarity with their families.

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Adopted this fourth day of May,

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2,026, signed by Don Chair,

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Don Mile Chair of the Lake County Board of Commissioners.

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So moved.

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Okay.

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We have a motion by Commission Adamson to approve the

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Proclamation.

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Is there a second?

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Second.

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Second by Commission of Jackson.

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All in favor?

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Hi.

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Hi.

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All those opposed?

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No.

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Not hearing in the motion carries, the information is approved.

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Thank you.

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Thank you.

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We thank the Commission for standing this honor and recognition of the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

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National Police Week serves as a reminder of the dangers we face each day.

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and also the service provided the sacrifices made by each man and woman to keep our community safe.

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Again, we thank you for honoring us and we look forward to continuing to work and serve this community.

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Thank you in God bless you. Thank you.

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Mr. Chair, boards of the Commission.

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I do believe the sheriff has a honor he would like to bestow on one of his deputies.

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Good

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evening.

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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.

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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.

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On behalf of Sheriff Roe and the White County Sheriff's Office, it is my distinct pleasure

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and privilege to present Deputy Olsen, Deputy Paro, Deputy Puebla, Deputy Connoes, Deputy

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Polo, and Deputy Peterkin with this commendation.

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Similizing our deep appreciation for their exceptional

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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.

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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.

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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.

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We would like to bring light to their honorable actions.

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You decided to take action and not stop until help arrived.

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We are profoundly grateful for your service and selflessness in the line of duty.

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Thank you.

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Thank you.

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Thank you.

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Thank

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you

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so much for coming.

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Thank you, Sheriff Row, and in the depot, we really appreciate that y'all bring this before,

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and I know my colleagues have a comment down,

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I'm sure they want to make some commission

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of Stalin's, that you.

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Just we just so appreciate all of our law enforcement officers

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and all that you do every single day.

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And this is just an example of your bravery and your courage.

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But this goes on every single day.

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And we just thank you for all that you do for us.

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We are very blessed to have you protecting our community.

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Thank you.

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Commissioner Anderson.

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I'll be back soon.

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OK.

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Mr. Jackson?

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Yes, thank you for keeping us safe and keeping our neighbors alive. Thank you.

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Commissioner Evans?

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Indeed, we appreciate fast action and you being almost spot for what it's needed.

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Thank you so much.

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Commissioner Thomas.

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Thank you, Chair. I have no comments.

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I have the next proclamation to mention folks who serve in our community.

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Thank you, Commissioner Wardas.

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As the granddaughter of Sheriff's Deputy, I'm extremely grateful for your service and I understand

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the sacrifice that you all give every day.

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And so thank you.

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And I as well, having the entire Department of Public Safety, so I understand the need and

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turn to what these guys do every day, but we just want to make sure we honor your service

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and everything you do to protect our community.

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Again, thank you so very much.

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Next, we will move on to a military precession month proclamation, and that will be read by Commissioner

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Nikotamus.

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And it's set by Brooke Dickhart, Executive Director of the Joel Fund.

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Good evening.

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Military precession month is always meaningful to me, but this year it carries a different kind of

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weight as we watch what's happening across the world we've been reminded.

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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.

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it's for the whole family. As local government we talk a lot about meeting people where they are and the

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Joel Fund does that every single day. So today's recognition is really about gratitude, but it's also about alignment.

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It's about lifting up the kind of work that truly holds our community together. I'm honored to read this

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Proclamation. Whereas the month of May is nationally recognized as military appreciation month, a time set aside to honor the courage,

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sacrifice and service of our nation's active duty service members, veterans, and military

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families.

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And whereas Wake County is home to a large and growing population of veterans and military

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families, reflecting North Carolina's proud and enduring military tradition, and whereas

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the North Carolina Department of Military and Veteran Affairs works diligently to support, advocate

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for and serve the needs of North Carolina's military community through programs that enhance

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quality of life, expand access to resources, ensure that no veteran or family is left behind,

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and whereas local organizations such as the Joel Fund, based in Rulesville, play a critical

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role in strengthening our community by providing essential services, mental health support,

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and advocacy for veterans and military-connected families, and whereas the Joel Fund's work exemplifies

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compassion, commitment, and community partnership ensuring all of those that have served our

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country and their loved ones receive the care and recognition they deserve, and whereas

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during times of conflict and global uncertainty, including periods of war, the need for

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these services and for public recognition becomes even more urgent, as military families

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carry increased burdens of service, sacrifice, and separation, and whereas it is both fitting

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and proper that Wake County honors military appreciation month and uplifts the organizations

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that stand in support of those who serve.

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Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the Wake County Board of Commissioners that we do

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hereby recognize May as military appreciation month in Wake County and commend the

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Joel Fund for its outstanding service and unwavering dedication to military families and

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be it further proclaim that we encourage all residents of Wake County to honor, support,

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and express gratitude to our service members, veterans, and their families and to recognize

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the important work of organizations and agencies that serve them adopted this fourth day of May

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2020-26. Chairman, I make that motion.

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Thank you. Commissioner Thomas, there was a motion about commission. Thomas is there a second?

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Seconded?

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I have a second by commission of Stalin. The motion has been made. Is there all in favor please

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Aye. Aye. Aye. Those opposed.

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We said no. The eyes have it. Motion cares.

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Proclamation proves. Thank you so much.

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Brooke, this is for you and your organization.

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Please.

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Good evening commissioners.

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This is quite an honor.

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I don't think I really understood what this was tonight.

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So I'm from the bottom of my heart.

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I'm truly honored to be here.

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On behalf of the Julfund and the veterans and families we serve.

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I want to thank the commissioners for this proclamation.

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Military appreciation month is more than just a date on a calendar.

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It's a reminder of the sacrifices made by our neighbors.

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At the Joel Fund, we believe that thank you for your service.

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It's just the beginning of a conversation.

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Not the end.

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This recognition helps us continue our mission of ensuring no veteran feels isolated or forgotten.

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And I want to thank you for standing with us.

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Okay,

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before we move on to consent agenda, does anyone have a motion as to item 16, which has been removed from the consent agenda?

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I do, Mr. Chair.

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Thank you for recognizing me.

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Mr. Chair, I make a motion that the Board defer consideration on item 16,

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weight-med board of directors, amendment to weight-meds, articles, and incorporation, and second.

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

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Okay, we have a motion by Commission Anderson. Is there a second? Second? Second, my Commission

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Waters. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. Aye. All opposed, please say no. The

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eyes have it. The motion carries.

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So at this time, I want to make a statement and reference

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to item 16,

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and that is the Wake, the County Board of Commission,

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we officially decided

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to delay consideration this agenda item regarding the proposed strategic combination of

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Wake, Med Health, and Hospital in HM Health. The Board made this decision to provide time

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for the hospitals to engage with the community. So they along with the County Commission

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can here, residents, comments and concerns about this combination.

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The community engagement is important part of work that we do.

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But a join of these hospitals may be positive for Wake County.

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We want to be fully open and transparent about the process.

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And that includes a line of ample time for the public feedback.

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The Board hope is that Wake Man and Atrium Health will listen to the community insights,

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answer their questions, and make changes that need to address staff concerns.

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Wake Man is asking the Commission to approve Change to Two Legal Documents,

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and even the hospital to proceed with regulatory reviews.

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The documents are one, the article in Corporation, and two, the transfer agreement.

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01:17:00,820 --> 01:17:05,100
The articles in Corporation have found how many members the board can't appoint to

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01:17:05,100 --> 01:17:08,260
the WakeMed Board of Directors and where they must reside.

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01:17:09,340 --> 01:17:13,900
The amended version of this document contains to allow the commissions to appoint eight

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01:17:13,900 --> 01:17:16,720
members to the 14 member WakeMed Board of Directors.

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It also confirmed that the eight appointees must live within Wake County.

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01:17:22,320 --> 01:17:27,640
This ensures that Wake County and its residents will continue to have a say in how

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01:17:27,640 --> 01:17:30,900
WakeMed mixes obligation after this combination.

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01:17:32,220 --> 01:17:37,140
The transfer of agreement restakes WakeMed commitment to maintaining our improvement, the

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01:17:37,140 --> 01:17:42,820
level of healthcare services it provides to residents from a cross-reason, including the

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President and community have care.

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This is important because Wake Man does not meet the expectation

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01:17:49,680 --> 01:17:53,840
of listening to the document, the hospital reversed back to the county.

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01:17:55,280 --> 01:17:59,480
The board does not have the legal authority to approve the adjournment of Wake Man or

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01:17:59,480 --> 01:18:00,220
our atrium.

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01:18:01,260 --> 01:18:06,520
Wake Man requested action is just the first of many in a detailed process that involved

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01:18:06,520 --> 01:18:09,300
the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice.

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01:18:10,260 --> 01:18:16,560
The commissioners are not involved in any way and wake me as operation, and they will not

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01:18:16,560 --> 01:18:21,700
contribute any funding or any property or access to wake me as part of this proposed

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01:18:21,700 --> 01:18:22,340
combination.

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01:18:24,020 --> 01:18:28,000
The wake-med campus on Newton Avenue in Raleigh was once the county's hospital.

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01:18:28,920 --> 01:18:35,100
In 1997, Wake County agreed to transfer the hospital to a non-profit wake-med corporation.

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01:18:35,100 --> 01:18:52,940
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.

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01:18:54,700 --> 01:19:00,700
The 1997 agreement in the statute say if the hospital ever stopped being a non-profit community

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01:19:00,700 --> 01:19:05,720
general hospital, open to the public and provide an energetic care, it could, if we

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were back to the county.

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01:19:08,360 --> 01:19:12,100
Therefore, the commission must have proved in a change in that structure.

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So, I want to make sure that we went on record in terms of the board, our environment and

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this decision making.

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01:19:19,460 --> 01:19:26,280
So, I think we need to vote to go ahead and move this.

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01:19:27,160 --> 01:19:34,540
So, all in favor, we have a motion by Commissioner Adams and we have a second, I think

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01:19:34,540 --> 01:19:37,240
we're by Commissioner Waters, all in favor.

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01:19:38,020 --> 01:19:38,220
Aye.

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01:19:38,680 --> 01:19:39,460
All opposed?

269
01:19:41,060 --> 01:19:42,940
Not hearing any, then that motion carries.

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01:19:43,560 --> 01:19:44,340
Thank you.

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01:19:49,940 --> 01:19:53,680
Okay, now we will have a motion to approve the consent.

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01:19:56,330 --> 01:19:58,790
So there are motion to approve the consent agenda.

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01:19:58,990 --> 01:19:59,970
Motion to approve the consent agenda.

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01:20:00,000 --> 01:20:06,120
As a motion by a commissioner, Thomas, you approve the consent agenda, all the second.

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01:20:06,200 --> 01:20:07,200
I'll second that.

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01:20:07,260 --> 01:20:09,760
That's the second by a commissioner, Alison, all in favor?

277
01:20:10,400 --> 01:20:12,340
Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. All opposed, please.

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01:20:12,680 --> 01:20:14,500
The motion carries.

279
01:20:15,680 --> 01:20:18,120
So the consent agenda is approved.

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01:20:18,820 --> 01:20:22,680
Now is time for the General Public comment period.

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01:20:23,900 --> 01:20:26,000
And the regular meeting, the Board of Commission,

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01:20:26,000 --> 01:20:28,380
And at a case of time to hear from residents.

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01:20:30,240 --> 01:20:33,480
Attenties had an opportunity to sign up,

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01:20:33,480 --> 01:20:35,500
using an online sign-up app.

285
01:20:37,100 --> 01:20:40,020
We also provide an opportunity to sign up here in person.

286
01:20:41,040 --> 01:20:45,500
I have the list of people who sign up when I call your name,

287
01:20:45,860 --> 01:20:48,560
please come to the podium, give us your name,

288
01:20:48,820 --> 01:20:52,560
and if you will share what part of the county you reside in.

289
01:20:52,560 --> 01:20:55,940
Then you will have up to three minutes to speak.

290
01:20:56,940 --> 01:21:00,760
When you have one minute left, the yellow light will go on.

291
01:21:01,340 --> 01:21:04,560
When your time has elapsed, their red light will go on.

292
01:21:05,360 --> 01:21:09,180
If you're still speaking at the end of your time, I'll ask you to complete your sentence

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01:21:09,180 --> 01:21:11,480
in the inches of fairness to everyone.

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01:21:12,280 --> 01:21:14,980
I'm going to try to be consistent about that.

295
01:21:15,200 --> 01:21:19,360
Please note that the commissioners will not respond to comments shared today.

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01:21:19,360 --> 01:21:23,860
This comment period is the time for us to hear from you.

297
01:21:24,360 --> 01:21:27,620
I will begin with the first name on the list.

298
01:21:28,440 --> 01:21:34,000
And the first name on the list is Donald Jensen, CEO of WakeMed.

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01:21:43,870 --> 01:21:44,750
Commissioners, chair.

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01:21:45,350 --> 01:21:47,970
Thank you very much for the opportunity to come talk to you today.

301
01:21:48,030 --> 01:21:52,950
Let me begin by humbly acknowledging the outpouring and support and love.

302
01:21:53,130 --> 01:21:56,890
We have felt over the last 48 hours from our WakeMed community.

303
01:21:56,890 --> 01:22:03,110
for WakeMed. We weren't sure before Friday. We know for certain that Wake County residents,

304
01:22:03,550 --> 01:22:08,850
community leaders, and our elected officials from Washington and local government's value are

305
01:22:08,850 --> 01:22:15,650
care. Thank you all. Naturally, a matter of magnitude of this size raises questions and concerns,

306
01:22:15,650 --> 01:22:22,690
and we expect that. We welcome and we'll do our best as we always have in working with you to do

307
01:22:22,690 --> 01:22:25,410
the best for this community.

308
01:22:26,250 --> 01:22:31,550
The reality is, as we look five, ten, and twenty-five years ahead,

309
01:22:32,390 --> 01:22:38,290
we know that WakeMed cannot continue to provide the healthcare that this county needs

310
01:22:38,290 --> 01:22:41,170
without a strong strategic partner.

311
01:22:41,770 --> 01:22:46,770
We will not have access to the capital that we need to meet the needs of one of the

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01:22:46,770 --> 01:22:49,470
fastest growing communities in the country.

313
01:22:49,470 --> 01:23:02,450
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.

314
01:23:03,290 --> 01:23:13,770
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.

315
01:23:13,770 --> 01:23:20,610
This new partnership will mean Wake County will still be served by three strong system.

316
01:23:21,090 --> 01:23:24,130
There will be more competition, not less.

317
01:23:24,590 --> 01:23:34,430
From more than 65 years, we have, as a little old WakeMed, met that competition in the challenges that health care faces.

318
01:23:34,750 --> 01:23:40,450
We provide excellent care and serve everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

319
01:23:40,450 --> 01:23:46,550
We cannot continue to go at a loan, especially in the face of federal, state, and other

320
01:23:46,550 --> 01:23:52,190
cuts, and an ever-expanding community that needs more services.

321
01:23:52,990 --> 01:23:57,630
Healthcare costs continue to rise through inflation, whether it's a cost of good, staffing,

322
01:23:57,970 --> 01:24:00,150
pharmaceutical, and construction costs.

323
01:24:00,610 --> 01:24:05,810
We understand that the federal government, state government, and even the state health plan

324
01:24:05,810 --> 01:24:10,350
are looking to cut reimbursement to hospitals in order to deal with the hard choices.

325
01:24:10,350 --> 01:24:16,110
they have to make. To identify the right partner we went through a long and deliberate and

326
01:24:16,110 --> 01:24:24,650
diligent process. We hired consultants from national organizations to analyze possible partners

327
01:24:24,650 --> 01:24:30,410
in North Carolina and outside of North Carolina. We focused on finding a partner that would

328
01:24:30,410 --> 01:24:36,870
focus on community, high ethics, and shared values.

329
01:24:37,810 --> 01:24:41,610
What I can tell you is H.M. health rose to the top of that list.

330
01:24:41,970 --> 01:24:47,790
Their homegrown here in North Carolina, they have a proven record of community commitment,

331
01:24:48,010 --> 01:24:54,850
their well-managed organization, have strong financial capabilities.

332
01:24:55,930 --> 01:24:57,670
It is no, this is not a sale.

333
01:24:57,670 --> 01:24:59,890
I'm sorry, but I'd really like please.

334
01:25:02,340 --> 01:25:13,140
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

335
01:25:13,140 --> 01:25:19,520
WakeMed and our community don't just survive but that they thrive. Thank you so very much.

336
01:25:19,520 --> 01:25:23,900
Thank you. Next up, Mr. Theresa Plaster.

337
01:25:26,830 --> 01:25:27,930
Mr. Theresa Plaster.

338
01:25:32,810 --> 01:25:33,810
Joshua Ward.

339
01:25:45,600 --> 01:25:47,900
Thank you. My name is Joshua Ward.

340
01:25:49,240 --> 01:25:51,220
I am a physician here in Raleigh.

341
01:25:51,580 --> 01:25:52,960
And I specialize in hospital medicine.

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01:25:53,200 --> 01:25:56,020
I'm here to raise some concerns regarding the proposed

343
01:25:56,020 --> 01:25:57,700
atrium week-med merger.

344
01:25:59,240 --> 01:26:01,100
Unfortunately, there has been little times to find

345
01:26:01,100 --> 01:26:03,160
fully review the spectrum of implications

346
01:26:03,160 --> 01:26:05,780
and possible impacts that community, the specific deal creates

347
01:26:05,780 --> 01:26:12,240
which is one of my concerns, but thank you for considering and approving a delay in this vote.

348
01:26:13,540 --> 01:26:20,540
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.

349
01:26:21,280 --> 01:26:24,100
As and almost all other industries, since all of the population,

350
01:26:25,140 --> 01:26:31,260
inevitably leads to less competition, increased prices, a worse product and a race to the bottom for workers pay.

351
01:26:31,260 --> 01:26:38,480
For other industries, this results in mostly inconveniences and customer dissatisfaction, and health care,

352
01:26:38,560 --> 01:26:42,240
the results are these things as well as actual people's lives.

353
01:26:43,020 --> 01:26:46,520
One way consolidation health care negatively affects patients is often by reducing or

354
01:26:46,520 --> 01:26:49,160
siloing, especially resources as a cost-saving measure.

355
01:26:49,660 --> 01:26:54,040
This leads to worse access to care disproportionately affecting rural communities and disproportionately

356
01:26:54,040 --> 01:26:57,880
affecting women's care, pediatric care, and mental health care.

357
01:26:57,880 --> 01:27:02,860
There are now four distinct maternity care deserts in North Carolina, including in Southern

358
01:27:02,860 --> 01:27:08,860
North Carolina and South Eastern North Carolina, between 2013 and 2023, nine hospitals

359
01:27:08,860 --> 01:27:14,000
completely eliminated labor and delivery services and at least 29 delivery rooms were

360
01:27:14,000 --> 01:27:16,660
cut or repurposed at rural hospitals over the last decade.

361
01:27:17,560 --> 01:27:22,360
When these other hospitals, these rural hospitals close services, the patients that need these

362
01:27:22,360 --> 01:27:27,740
services that need to be transported hours away from their homes to larger health care systems.

363
01:27:28,080 --> 01:27:32,640
And unfortunately, I have witnessed firsthand how this creates more strain on our ability

364
01:27:32,640 --> 01:27:34,440
to treat the residents of Wake County.

365
01:27:34,980 --> 01:27:40,720
I ask what is atrins and advocates advocate health's plan to reverse this trend.

366
01:27:41,200 --> 01:27:45,160
In addition to our rural communities, WakeNet has always committed itself to providing

367
01:27:45,160 --> 01:27:46,400
care to our indigenous population.

368
01:27:46,980 --> 01:27:50,860
Is pride itself in remaining independent and thus able to respond primarily to the needs

369
01:27:50,860 --> 01:27:53,580
of this community and all residents of Wake County.

370
01:27:53,920 --> 01:27:56,620
How can we expect the same from a multi-state conglomerate

371
01:27:56,620 --> 01:27:57,940
like Advocate Health?

372
01:27:58,780 --> 01:28:01,000
For healthcare workers, either already serving this community

373
01:28:01,000 --> 01:28:02,420
or considering moving to the area,

374
01:28:02,540 --> 01:28:05,140
you will have fewer options, less choice and less ability

375
01:28:05,880 --> 01:28:09,560
with no, with which to sit and negotiate with your employer.

376
01:28:10,460 --> 01:28:13,280
Less competition, there's less incentive for them

377
01:28:13,280 --> 01:28:15,260
to provide competitive salaries or benefits.

378
01:28:16,100 --> 01:28:18,360
I also want to recognize that this proposal comes just four

379
01:28:18,360 --> 01:28:20,220
months after WakeMed failed to get approval

380
01:28:20,220 --> 01:28:22,600
to independently expand their cancer services.

381
01:28:23,000 --> 01:28:26,040
In 2022, WAKEMAD applied through the certificate of need

382
01:28:26,040 --> 01:28:29,140
process to add a linear accelerator or line-ack

383
01:28:29,140 --> 01:28:30,740
to its radiation treatment options.

384
01:28:30,960 --> 01:28:33,440
However, due to anti-competitive CON laws,

385
01:28:33,940 --> 01:28:35,520
neighboring health systems were able to litigate

386
01:28:35,520 --> 01:28:37,940
and block the approval for this potentially life-saving service.

387
01:28:38,380 --> 01:28:42,020
By some estimates, WAKEMAD loses more than $30 million annually

388
01:28:42,020 --> 01:28:45,020
having to refer patients to their competitors for this vital treatment.

389
01:28:45,580 --> 01:28:48,400
Of note, Gene Wood, CEO of A3M's parent company

390
01:28:48,400 --> 01:28:52,780
advocate health reportedly made more than $25 million dollars last year to your last

391
01:28:52,780 --> 01:28:54,220
sense there.

392
01:28:54,700 --> 01:28:55,180
Sure.

393
01:28:56,300 --> 01:29:00,520
So the bottom line is that consolidation of health care is bad for patients and health care

394
01:29:00,520 --> 01:29:01,160
workers alike.

395
01:29:01,520 --> 01:29:05,100
This pattern across our state and country continues to drive up costs worse than access

396
01:29:05,100 --> 01:29:07,700
to care and further puts workers at a disadvantage.

397
01:29:10,820 --> 01:29:11,780
Thank you.

398
01:29:11,780 --> 01:29:13,420
Ms. Margaret Branton.

399
01:29:25,180 --> 01:29:25,380
Thank you.

400
01:29:25,500 --> 01:29:29,420
I'm Margaret Branton currently serving as Vice Chair of the Wake Med Board of Directors and

401
01:29:29,420 --> 01:29:33,140
Commissioner appointee. As we all know, on Friday, May 1,

402
01:29:33,360 --> 01:29:37,120
Wait, Med, and Atrium Health announced plans to come together in a strategic

403
01:29:37,120 --> 01:29:41,460
combination. At its core, this means we've made a thoughtful decision to

404
01:29:41,460 --> 01:29:45,220
partner because we believe that by working together, we can do more for our

405
01:29:45,220 --> 01:29:49,660
patients, our communities, and our teams than we could ever do on our own.

406
01:29:49,900 --> 01:29:53,860
I appreciate that considering this for the first time can be overwhelming. It can

407
01:29:53,860 --> 01:29:57,840
be a shock. It was to us as well. Out of respect to you, the

408
01:29:57,840 --> 01:29:59,980
The Board felt it was important.

409
01:30:00,000 --> 01:30:04,100
To wait until this was formally on the agenda before sharing more publicly.

410
01:30:04,840 --> 01:30:09,980
And now we have the opportunity to be open and transparent about what this means and why

411
01:30:09,980 --> 01:30:13,720
the Board unanimously believes that this is the right step forward.

412
01:30:14,180 --> 01:30:18,480
I had the privilege and responsibility of serving on the exact committee that carefully

413
01:30:18,480 --> 01:30:22,100
and painstakingly explored wake meds options.

414
01:30:22,380 --> 01:30:28,420
We spent two years asking tough questions and looking honestly at the challenges facing us

415
01:30:28,420 --> 01:30:34,500
health care today and thinking about what WakeMed needs not just for today but for its

416
01:30:34,500 --> 01:30:41,940
future. Above all else, one priority got it us. Making sure WakeMed can continue providing

417
01:30:41,940 --> 01:30:48,620
outstanding and compassionate care for all. This mission remains at the heart of every decision

418
01:30:48,620 --> 01:30:54,760
we've made. WakeMed is a strong and successful organization and we're proud of the care we provide.

419
01:30:54,760 --> 01:31:00,360
it is such an integral part of Wake County, and from the comments posted, it is obvious

420
01:31:00,360 --> 01:31:02,520
that the community feels the same way.

421
01:31:03,100 --> 01:31:07,380
We also have to recognize, however, that our size can limit how quickly and how much

422
01:31:07,380 --> 01:31:13,680
we can grow, especially, as our community continues to expand, partnering with an organization

423
01:31:13,680 --> 01:31:19,940
that shares our values and our culture, and atrium health does, gives us the opportunity

424
01:31:19,940 --> 01:31:23,400
to build on that strength and prepare for what's ahead.

425
01:31:23,400 --> 01:31:31,700
We are choosing to do this from a position of strength so that we can help shape the future rather than react to it.

426
01:31:31,980 --> 01:31:36,040
We also know that our facilities and services need to grow with our community.

427
01:31:36,520 --> 01:31:43,540
Parts of our rally campus are decades old and need significant investments to meet today's needs and to Mars demands.

428
01:31:44,120 --> 01:31:51,440
Not only will this partnership give us an opportunity to renovate, but also to expand access and services.

429
01:31:51,440 --> 01:31:59,480
And it gives us the opportunity to invest in White County in impactful way to create new jobs and strengthen our mental health resources.

430
01:32:00,080 --> 01:32:07,720
This partnership enables us to do even more for people we serve while staying true to who we are and what matters most.

431
01:32:08,020 --> 01:32:12,540
I like the rest of our White Med Board and committed to continuing this conversation.

432
01:32:12,540 --> 01:32:19,200
answering any questions and making sure our community both the understands both the

433
01:32:19,200 --> 01:32:26,260
why and the how behind this crucial step for. Thank you. Thank you Ms. Bracken. Next Ms.

434
01:32:26,400 --> 01:32:27,680
I'll tell you Rainy.

435
01:32:39,060 --> 01:32:42,480
Good evening. My name is Octavio Rainy and I am the South and

436
01:32:42,480 --> 01:32:47,980
Srawley. I would like to say too that we kind of brought a commission. I think there was a

437
01:32:47,980 --> 01:32:53,500
little mistake in me when you started talking about what we did. I want you to take

438
01:32:53,500 --> 01:33:02,300
back when there was St. Agnes Hospital. When St. Agnes Hospital closed in the sixteenth,

439
01:33:02,800 --> 01:33:10,200
it merged into Waitmeat. That was a mention when you were talking about Waitmeat. So I have

440
01:33:10,200 --> 01:33:16,440
to bring that to your attention. And during this time, we had just passed the Fair Housing Act.

441
01:33:16,780 --> 01:33:23,480
Their Waitmeat was sitting with the first integration of the hospital system. They did

442
01:33:23,480 --> 01:33:31,200
did that with courtesy, kindness, and they served black people before

443
01:33:31,200 --> 01:33:37,260
registered. Let's be clear on this, they served black people. So don't

444
01:33:37,260 --> 01:33:42,140
ever forget what weight-made is doing, and they are continuously

445
01:33:42,140 --> 01:33:47,600
serving the underserved black people in Southeast Asia. Not only do

446
01:33:47,600 --> 01:33:53,380
that, they have never forgotten about saying Agnes Hospital. And I don't

447
01:33:53,380 --> 01:33:56,120
able to want Joe to forget about Saint Agnes Hospital.

448
01:33:56,480 --> 01:33:58,900
I got a little hot on my collar right then.

449
01:33:59,600 --> 01:34:02,360
But when you talk about that, talk about the merger.

450
01:34:02,900 --> 01:34:07,100
Now, here what it is again, one and two merge with A-Trump.

451
01:34:08,400 --> 01:34:10,180
I think it's a perfect idea.

452
01:34:10,660 --> 01:34:14,560
It's a deal then the opportunity to really expand

453
01:34:14,560 --> 01:34:16,040
and to do more.

454
01:34:16,420 --> 01:34:18,380
It will also give them the opportunity

455
01:34:18,380 --> 01:34:22,040
to take another look at Saint Agnes Hospital.

456
01:34:22,040 --> 01:34:24,840
We need this merger.

457
01:34:25,280 --> 01:34:31,820
This merger is going to benefit Southeast Rale, not only are they a health provider, but they

458
01:34:31,820 --> 01:34:35,380
do other things in Southeast Rale.

459
01:34:36,540 --> 01:34:41,820
They celebrate saying, Agnes Hospital, they had never forgotten saying Agnes Hospital.

460
01:34:42,200 --> 01:34:50,180
They know how important Agnes Hospital is to the community, not only that, they provide programs

461
01:34:50,180 --> 01:34:51,160
for youth.

462
01:34:51,160 --> 01:34:53,700
They help celebrate our history.

463
01:34:54,020 --> 01:34:58,000
They help preserve our history when we had COVID.

464
01:34:58,720 --> 01:34:59,980
Wait, man, open up them.

465
01:35:00,000 --> 01:35:11,920
And we all know how devastating that is. They have their mammograms, mammograms, that people really women really need. When you look at

466
01:35:11,920 --> 01:35:28,900
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.

467
01:35:28,900 --> 01:35:32,880
Wait, Ned, is my health care provider.

468
01:35:33,260 --> 01:35:36,260
I put all my faith in all my trust in with me.

469
01:35:36,920 --> 01:35:41,680
I welcome the opportunity to have public conversation.

470
01:35:42,180 --> 01:35:46,280
I would join with me in those public conversation.

471
01:35:46,560 --> 01:35:48,120
I believe in what Ned.

472
01:35:48,320 --> 01:35:48,600
All right.

473
01:35:48,780 --> 01:35:49,640
Thank you, Ms. Rain.

474
01:35:52,450 --> 01:35:54,330
Next Dan Blue.

475
01:36:01,850 --> 01:36:07,950
Commissioner, Mr. Chair, I am Dan Blun III, I reside in Wake Forest my office this year

476
01:36:07,950 --> 01:36:08,490
downtown.

477
01:36:09,250 --> 01:36:13,250
And on behalf of Wake Med's Board of Directors, and as a member of the Executive Committee

478
01:36:13,250 --> 01:36:19,030
for Wake Med, having been appointed and served on Wake Med's Board for the last 10-plus

479
01:36:19,030 --> 01:36:23,230
years, I'm honored to offer comments tonight, support of Wake Med's proposed partnership

480
01:36:23,230 --> 01:36:24,170
with Atrem Health.

481
01:36:24,870 --> 01:36:28,790
As a member of the Executive Committee, I have been involved in the process of identifying

482
01:36:28,790 --> 01:36:33,850
the need for strategic partner and was charged with finding the right partner. That's the

483
01:36:33,850 --> 01:36:39,110
executive committee, not just me. We particularly were looking for a partner who shares in

484
01:36:39,110 --> 01:36:44,070
WakeMed's mission of care for all, a partner who's recognized for their clinical excellence,

485
01:36:44,770 --> 01:36:49,670
a partner who's financially and ethically sound, a partner who prioritizes patients, teammates,

486
01:36:49,850 --> 01:36:54,630
and community partnerships. That's important to us because that's the relationship that we have with

487
01:36:54,630 --> 01:36:59,610
County to identify that right partner who went the way long and diligent process.

488
01:37:00,890 --> 01:37:05,590
The Board, recognizing the importance of this decision, commissioned an independent study

489
01:37:05,590 --> 01:37:07,650
by a healthcare consulting firm.

490
01:37:08,910 --> 01:37:14,190
After looking inside of North Carolina across the nation for a partner, the study recommended

491
01:37:14,190 --> 01:37:17,270
a partnership with Atrium in the proposal that's in front of you.

492
01:37:17,870 --> 01:37:24,090
Atrium Health is part of Advocate Health the nation's largest, third largest, non-profit academic

493
01:37:24,090 --> 01:37:29,010
health system with Wake Forest University's School of Medicine as its academic core.

494
01:37:29,550 --> 01:37:34,430
It has roots and strong presence here in North Carolina, and its leadership understands and

495
01:37:34,430 --> 01:37:38,210
supports our commitment, Wake Meds commitment to our community.

496
01:37:39,050 --> 01:37:43,130
This strategic partnership with Atrium will be right for Wake Med, and right for the

497
01:37:43,130 --> 01:37:44,570
people of Wake County as well.

498
01:37:45,370 --> 01:37:48,430
The patients, the consumers, and the taxpayers.

499
01:37:48,950 --> 01:37:54,690
as we try to confront a challenging health care environment coming in the years ahead.

500
01:37:55,310 --> 01:37:56,570
Thank you very much for your consideration.

501
01:37:57,290 --> 01:38:00,470
Thank you for the time and the opportunity to engage the public with this.

502
01:38:00,730 --> 01:38:02,490
We think this is the right deal for us.

503
01:38:02,810 --> 01:38:03,550
Thank you very much.

504
01:38:04,110 --> 01:38:04,750
Thank you.

505
01:38:05,770 --> 01:38:08,370
Next, we want to be Dr. Brian Clarksner.

506
01:38:20,040 --> 01:38:20,300
Thank you.

507
01:38:20,520 --> 01:38:22,340
So my name is Brian Clausener.

508
01:38:22,380 --> 01:38:28,240
I am a public health physician for WakeMed and run our Center for Community Health Innovation

509
01:38:28,240 --> 01:38:34,640
and equity. And part of what we've been doing over the last 10 plus years is innovating models

510
01:38:34,640 --> 01:38:39,700
that better manage our sickest patients. The really cool thing about what we've been able to do

511
01:38:39,700 --> 01:38:44,860
is we realize to better manage our sickest patients or residents. We have to get outside the walls

512
01:38:44,860 --> 01:38:50,540
of our hospital systems. And so the work that we dealt with community partners, including Wake County,

513
01:38:51,420 --> 01:38:56,620
has been truly kind of national model type of stuff. It's been awesome. If you think about

514
01:38:56,620 --> 01:39:00,600
the familiar face initiative, Oaksity Care's cornerstone,

515
01:39:00,740 --> 01:39:03,900
some of our efforts around housing first models,

516
01:39:04,580 --> 01:39:06,500
hopefully, respite coming soon.

517
01:39:06,540 --> 01:39:08,140
The street outreach teams that we developed,

518
01:39:08,280 --> 01:39:09,500
are worked during COVID.

519
01:39:10,920 --> 01:39:14,500
We have worked intentionally to kind of merge our efforts

520
01:39:14,500 --> 01:39:16,140
in terms of population health,

521
01:39:16,440 --> 01:39:18,580
with the evolving efforts of health and all policies

522
01:39:18,580 --> 01:39:20,640
with the county, and in doing so,

523
01:39:20,720 --> 01:39:22,880
one of the things that we constantly ask ourselves

524
01:39:22,880 --> 01:39:26,980
is how can we better stop hemorrhaging money

525
01:39:26,980 --> 01:39:31,800
tolerating the expensive suffering of our high-risk individuals?

526
01:39:31,880 --> 01:39:34,060
Our marginalized, our stereotypes are labeled.

527
01:39:36,020 --> 01:39:39,240
And the only reason we've been able to do that throughout the years

528
01:39:39,240 --> 01:39:43,900
is because we do have a very unique leadership that is uniquely dedicated

529
01:39:43,900 --> 01:39:48,120
to mission to serving our highest-risk patients.

530
01:39:49,900 --> 01:39:59,820
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.

531
01:40:00,000 --> 01:40:10,360
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.

532
01:40:11,480 --> 01:40:27,160
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.

533
01:40:27,160 --> 01:40:30,760
And H.R.M was there, and H.R.M is part of that.

534
01:40:31,120 --> 01:40:36,480
We had DHHS, we had Denise Forman there, great innovative speakers that talked about.

535
01:40:36,500 --> 01:40:44,140
How can we leverage this collaborative partnerships across North Carolina to improve how we manage

536
01:40:44,140 --> 01:40:45,640
our sickest patients?

537
01:40:46,440 --> 01:40:48,020
We've also worked with H.R.M.

538
01:40:48,020 --> 01:40:50,180
I've been very aware of their focus.

539
01:40:50,560 --> 01:40:52,620
My specialty is around people experiencing homelessness.

540
01:40:53,320 --> 01:40:55,660
Their investment in housing, as well documented.

541
01:40:55,660 --> 01:41:01,000
not only direct investment in housing, but also sponsoring community initiatives that dress

542
01:41:01,000 --> 01:41:04,620
root cause and something called home for all that they've done over in Charlotte.

543
01:41:05,140 --> 01:41:07,920
We worked with them on their street outreach teams.

544
01:41:08,580 --> 01:41:14,180
Wake Med will engage almost every patient who gets shot or stabbed in the community, victims

545
01:41:14,180 --> 01:41:14,780
of violence.

546
01:41:15,220 --> 01:41:18,280
We engage with our case management team when we provide trauma and form care.

547
01:41:18,360 --> 01:41:20,120
They have a similar program out there.

548
01:41:20,680 --> 01:41:24,660
So we already have a lot of systems and a lot of collaborations in place.

549
01:41:24,660 --> 01:41:26,280
You're going to finish up your life.

550
01:41:26,880 --> 01:41:34,760
So, in finishing, I am very confident that I think we can leverage our experience and our expertise

551
01:41:35,280 --> 01:41:40,860
to really scale this and using the resources and the funding that A.T.R.M. brings it

552
01:41:40,860 --> 01:41:41,200
with table.

553
01:41:41,660 --> 01:41:42,180
So, thank you.

554
01:41:42,440 --> 01:41:43,940
Thank you.

555
01:41:44,320 --> 01:41:46,140
Next, Mr. Tom Oxen.

556
01:41:54,650 --> 01:41:55,730
Good evening, commissioners.

557
01:41:56,010 --> 01:41:59,630
And Dr. Ellis, good to be back here with you and not talking about public schools.

558
01:41:59,630 --> 01:42:03,670
For those of you who think of me that way, I must tell you that I've been involved at Wake

559
01:42:03,670 --> 01:42:05,650
Med even longer than public schools.

560
01:42:06,270 --> 01:42:10,690
So in Digivian IDS, I've spent 12 years on the Foundation Board, chaired that for two raised

561
01:42:10,690 --> 01:42:15,930
money for the other ten, was on the hospital board for ten years, chaired that for two during

562
01:42:15,930 --> 01:42:21,890
the Obamacare ACA crisis, where UNC tried to take over Wake Med, and following that

563
01:42:21,890 --> 01:42:26,430
went into six years as the on the ACO Board is required by the Affordable Care Act to get

564
01:42:26,430 --> 01:42:28,210
doctors and hospitals working together.

565
01:42:28,210 --> 01:42:34,130
Work with three different CEOs, many board members, and I can tell you that WakeMed is the true

566
01:42:34,130 --> 01:42:38,770
Jam of Wake County that most people do not know all the things they do.

567
01:42:39,210 --> 01:42:41,370
But I'm going to talk to you today more about money.

568
01:42:42,070 --> 01:42:44,890
And because I'm going to count them, then that's what I tend to look at first.

569
01:42:45,290 --> 01:42:50,990
So back in 1995, 1996, Chairman of the Commission set up something called the Lutter Commission

570
01:42:50,990 --> 01:42:56,970
to look at spending by the County Commission on Local Things like Public Schools and WakeMed,

571
01:42:56,970 --> 01:43:01,230
which at the time was a public hospital and we were the county commission's

572
01:43:01,230 --> 01:43:05,170
were spending six million dollars a year to reimburse the cost of

573
01:43:05,170 --> 01:43:08,430
indigent care. They didn't want to spend that money.

574
01:43:09,150 --> 01:43:12,270
They asked the hospital, should we stop doing it? Should we sell it to

575
01:43:12,270 --> 01:43:14,390
tenant, who's made an offer to buy, wakemet?

576
01:43:15,870 --> 01:43:18,910
Twelve Republican business leaders looked at all the numbers,

577
01:43:19,230 --> 01:43:23,350
talked to everybody and said, no, whatever we would get would be a

578
01:43:23,350 --> 01:43:27,890
One time thing, WakeMed would go away, and then a day would buy us it would never be the

579
01:43:27,890 --> 01:43:28,250
same.

580
01:43:28,690 --> 01:43:32,270
Plus the energy care price is going to go up in the future, don't sell it.

581
01:43:33,110 --> 01:43:36,930
Two years later, one year after we finished our work, they worked out an agreement with

582
01:43:36,930 --> 01:43:41,490
WakeMed to become a private not-for-profit, and it's been that way since 1997.

583
01:43:42,230 --> 01:43:44,110
The commissioners have had to put no money in.

584
01:43:44,310 --> 01:43:47,450
You all get an annual report as to what's given back to the community.

585
01:43:48,110 --> 01:43:50,890
And the uninsured care, the energy care is still covered.

586
01:43:50,890 --> 01:43:56,330
Except the cost of that, instead of being six million dollars a year now, is a hundred million dollars a year.

587
01:43:56,650 --> 01:43:58,950
Price to health care is going up in the last 30 years.

588
01:43:59,690 --> 01:44:04,550
So when they asked me 18 months ago to come in and take a look at this, to see what I thought,

589
01:44:04,850 --> 01:44:06,010
I said, I'll take a look at it.

590
01:44:06,150 --> 01:44:08,390
But if it means selling wake-med, no way.

591
01:44:09,330 --> 01:44:11,170
There's no way I'm going to agree to that.

592
01:44:11,590 --> 01:44:12,830
And then I looked at the numbers.

593
01:44:13,330 --> 01:44:14,530
And here's an accounting lesson.

594
01:44:15,290 --> 01:44:18,150
Hospitals are non-profit, but they make a profit.

595
01:44:18,150 --> 01:44:21,490
if there do things really well and they don't have a pandemic.

596
01:44:22,330 --> 01:44:26,150
They take that profit and they add back depreciation, a non-cash expense.

597
01:44:26,830 --> 01:44:30,830
That total cash goes to pay for their capital improvements and they keep in their cash level

598
01:44:30,830 --> 01:44:35,790
where it needs to be to have an A rating for their bond issuances, because they're constantly

599
01:44:35,790 --> 01:44:38,310
barring as much as they can for capital.

600
01:44:38,790 --> 01:44:39,850
Why do they need to do it?

601
01:44:40,010 --> 01:44:43,510
I don't know if you all didn't run this county so well, maybe we wouldn't have as many people

602
01:44:43,510 --> 01:44:44,210
moving here.

603
01:44:44,210 --> 01:44:48,870
But the county is doing well, is growth, more people, 45% market share.

604
01:44:49,270 --> 01:44:53,490
And as a home hospital for this county, we must deliver what's needed.

605
01:44:54,010 --> 01:44:58,130
UNC has orange county, Durham has Durham county, and then they like to come to

606
01:44:58,130 --> 01:44:59,910
county to take important things.

607
01:45:01,080 --> 01:45:07,900
We, week, med, must have. So why? Why would I now be standing before you saying, this is a good thing?

608
01:45:07,940 --> 01:45:10,960
You know, could you go ahead and move to your last part there? I'm sorry.

609
01:45:11,020 --> 01:45:16,960
Because this is a good thing, because we will not be able to keep up with the future with this slim health,

610
01:45:17,340 --> 01:45:24,900
slim profits that are available in health care today, and having survived the pandemic losses that hurt our hospital

611
01:45:24,900 --> 01:45:30,080
in order to continue doing what we're doing, and $2 billion of already documented needs,

612
01:45:30,580 --> 01:45:35,860
we must have this partnership while maintaining control and assurances that anybody

613
01:45:35,860 --> 01:45:38,920
who we are committed to working with will do what they say.

614
01:45:39,460 --> 01:45:40,140
Thank you for your time.

615
01:45:40,600 --> 01:45:41,120
Thank you for your service.

616
01:45:41,580 --> 01:45:42,220
Thank you.

617
01:45:43,560 --> 01:45:45,480
Next up, Ms. Sharon Edmison,

618
01:45:51,530 --> 01:45:53,310
Ms. Sharon Edmison,

619
01:45:55,720 --> 01:45:57,660
next item, Ms. Seed Hutchison.

620
01:45:57,660 --> 01:45:58,600
Good

621
01:46:08,740 --> 01:46:11,180
evening, Mr. Chair and commissioners.

622
01:46:11,440 --> 01:46:13,560
I'm Sig Hutchinson, former Wake County Commissioner.

623
01:46:14,140 --> 01:46:16,460
Here to speak and support of the partnership between

624
01:46:16,460 --> 01:46:19,380
WakeMed Health and Hospitals and Atrium Health.

625
01:46:20,340 --> 01:46:23,460
As you begin to deal with decision, this decision,

626
01:46:23,980 --> 01:46:25,840
ultimately it comes down to three things.

627
01:46:26,620 --> 01:46:29,800
Trust, leadership, and partnerships.

628
01:46:30,900 --> 01:46:35,000
Starting with trust, as we collectively think about

629
01:46:35,000 --> 01:46:36,760
WakeMed Health and Hospitals.

630
01:46:36,760 --> 01:46:42,460
And the million dollars, millions of dollars of health care and services provided to all

631
01:46:42,460 --> 01:46:48,920
of our residents, including and especially our most vulnerable, as is the county hospital.

632
01:46:49,800 --> 01:46:57,260
I believe that we would all say, yes, we have nothing but trust in admiration for the services

633
01:46:57,260 --> 01:47:01,580
that these great professionals provide to our residents every day.

634
01:47:01,580 --> 01:47:06,640
So, yes, we do trust, wake mad, 100%.

635
01:47:06,640 --> 01:47:10,300
But that trust comes from years of great and strong leadership,

636
01:47:10,740 --> 01:47:12,780
starting at the top with Donald Jinsick.

637
01:47:13,560 --> 01:47:17,900
For 13 years, Donald Jinsick has created a culture of service

638
01:47:17,900 --> 01:47:21,920
where he often says, it doesn't matter if you're a CEO

639
01:47:21,920 --> 01:47:25,480
or an unchelted person in our emergency room,

640
01:47:25,580 --> 01:47:28,720
you're going to get the same level of service.

641
01:47:28,720 --> 01:47:39,400
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.

642
01:47:39,760 --> 01:47:39,880
Right?

643
01:47:40,920 --> 01:47:50,220
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.

644
01:47:50,220 --> 01:47:54,640
But commissioners, health care is changing, and we need to be ready.

645
01:47:54,800 --> 01:47:56,660
We need to be ready for those changes.

646
01:47:57,460 --> 01:48:02,380
So, with that trust and weight med, and this leadership, including the board and Donald

647
01:48:02,380 --> 01:48:08,860
Jensig, they are all telling us that the time is right for a new partnership.

648
01:48:09,720 --> 01:48:15,540
A partner with the same cultural identity as ours who believes in serving all residents

649
01:48:15,540 --> 01:48:17,040
with compassion and care.

650
01:48:17,040 --> 01:48:23,420
Also, this partnership gives us access to new capital where we can continue to grow and expand

651
01:48:23,420 --> 01:48:28,060
our quality health care with services for every person in Wake County that we desperately

652
01:48:28,060 --> 01:48:28,840
need.

653
01:48:29,820 --> 01:48:36,540
So, our leadership is telling us that the time is now, the partner is atrium health and the

654
01:48:36,540 --> 01:48:42,920
opportunity is before us, like never before, and commissioners, I believe them.

655
01:48:42,920 --> 01:48:46,420
I believe at the end of the day, this decision will ultimately

656
01:48:46,420 --> 01:48:52,420
called, ultimately come down to trust leadership and partnerships.

657
01:48:53,300 --> 01:48:55,880
To that end, let's make it happen.

658
01:48:56,460 --> 01:48:57,460
Thank you, commissioners.

659
01:48:58,060 --> 01:48:59,480
Thank you.

660
01:48:59,880 --> 01:49:02,120
Next up is this, I think, L.C.

661
01:49:02,420 --> 01:49:04,820
Rehats, L.C.

662
01:49:10,500 --> 01:49:15,340
I'm seeing, next in, just got the initials, L.R.

663
01:49:21,100 --> 01:49:22,160
Curl and Craig,

664
01:49:28,580 --> 01:49:29,700
we back a more

665
01:49:35,390 --> 01:49:37,710
Michael Ruden in.

666
01:49:48,780 --> 01:49:52,860
Hello Board of Commissioners, my name is Michael Ruden, I'm from Raleigh, Citizen of Raleigh.

667
01:49:53,400 --> 01:49:56,560
So I prepared a statement that was essentially going to say,

668
01:49:56,860 --> 01:49:59,960
could we please have more time to deliberate this?

669
01:50:00,000 --> 01:50:06,980
And I look forward to the public comment process. Just a couple of thoughts that I wanted to share was a deeply

670
01:50:06,980 --> 01:50:11,780
value of the medical staff at WakeMed, their facilities and their overall quality of care. They've

671
01:50:11,780 --> 01:50:16,720
taken care of myself and my family members since late 2016, and both of my children were born at WakeMed

672
01:50:17,960 --> 01:50:24,980
Raleigh. Many of these comments are now not necessarily relevant, but what I would say is we would want

673
01:50:24,980 --> 01:50:33,100
make sure that any merger of WakeMad with Atrium relies as the benefits that they're promising.

674
01:50:33,640 --> 01:50:36,920
There's not a lot of details that were available over the weekend when this was announced.

675
01:50:37,820 --> 01:50:43,660
I think my biggest concern was, is this decision a one-way street and what would we lose

676
01:50:43,660 --> 01:50:44,680
if it didn't go well?

677
01:50:45,440 --> 01:50:49,940
So I look forward to the public comment process and learning more from the parties involved.

678
01:50:51,100 --> 01:50:54,340
But thinking about how to structure the deal in a way where maybe there's an off ramp or

679
01:50:54,340 --> 01:50:59,360
look back, period or some kind of measurable success, I think would be really important.

680
01:51:01,700 --> 01:51:04,880
And yeah, I just want to thank you for your time.

681
01:51:04,880 --> 01:51:06,040
Thank you.

682
01:51:06,700 --> 01:51:06,900
Damien

683
01:51:20,340 --> 01:51:29,400
Gu, this is my first time coming before Wake County Board of Commissioners.

684
01:51:30,120 --> 01:51:32,060
So thank you for welcoming me here.

685
01:51:32,460 --> 01:51:36,960
I actually came late, so I actually have no idea what is going on with the agenda and

686
01:51:36,960 --> 01:51:45,080
of not been here before, so this is Joe Procomment, but I've signed up for I know number

687
01:51:45,080 --> 01:51:50,640
13, which is the Procumations requested, which I'm also not sure that works, but basically

688
01:51:50,640 --> 01:51:59,340
my comment that is wondering if there's a Procumation for, let's go, A.A.N.H.P.I. Heritage Month.

689
01:52:06,340 --> 01:52:06,940
That's

690
01:52:06,940 --> 01:52:13,220
really like it if there's one. So please consider that. And the second item I've signed

691
01:52:13,220 --> 01:52:21,700
up for was a number 16. I think I've heard that it's the votes for me delayed. Maybe not sure.

692
01:52:22,280 --> 01:52:28,800
I hope it's delayed. If it's not delayed, I hope you guys vote against it because I care a lot

693
01:52:28,800 --> 01:52:33,780
about health care, like a daughter of my doctors or

694
01:52:34,700 --> 01:52:39,240
a wake-med doctors, my primary care provider, is a wake-med doctor.

695
01:52:39,400 --> 01:52:42,620
And I've seen them in pretty much my entire life.

696
01:52:46,930 --> 01:52:50,690
As you can tell, I did not pay a speech because I had no idea how this works.

697
01:52:53,620 --> 01:53:03,040
I am familiar with some of you guys, because I am very active in the Wake-Cow and

698
01:53:03,040 --> 01:53:12,000
executive committee member, precinct 1801 vice-chair, which makes, so I have, I'm on the

699
01:53:12,000 --> 01:53:17,380
White County Democratic Party County Executive Committee, and I recognize some of your

700
01:53:17,380 --> 01:53:27,620
names because I voted to point some of you guys to our waters. Sophia Jackson, so it's good to

701
01:53:27,620 --> 01:53:30,500
ideas in person, not on Zoom,

702
01:53:32,860 --> 01:53:37,140
but I'm going sidetracked. So also do not like how, I mean,

703
01:53:37,200 --> 01:53:40,860
I do appreciate I'm doing minutes of time, but that's quite a lot of time.

704
01:53:43,740 --> 01:53:44,760
But basically,

705
01:53:45,820 --> 01:53:56,820
WakeMed is a public good that we need to keep, save, maintain. I think this merger with

706
01:53:56,820 --> 01:54:05,080
from him health. I might be good, but I'm not sure, but I don't like the process that which

707
01:54:05,080 --> 01:54:11,720
this seems to have come out nowhere, at least to the general public as come out nowhere. It seems

708
01:54:11,720 --> 01:54:18,620
like there have been lots of discussions between the people involved, but not the general public,

709
01:54:18,620 --> 01:54:25,120
So I do thank you guys for delaying the vote and thank you for hearing me.

710
01:54:25,760 --> 01:54:27,040
Thank you.

711
01:54:28,020 --> 01:54:31,460
Next, I'm the spectator of Mandrill,

712
01:54:35,020 --> 01:54:35,420
Victoria.

713
01:54:40,710 --> 01:54:42,130
Not seen her.

714
01:54:42,850 --> 01:54:44,870
Mary Dunbar,

715
01:54:50,680 --> 01:54:51,980
Ruby Floyd.

716
01:55:08,140 --> 01:55:12,760
Good evening commissioners and thank you for allowing me to speak. I'm addressing you tonight as a resident of

717
01:55:12,760 --> 01:55:23,480
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

718
01:55:23,480 --> 01:55:33,560
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

719
01:55:33,560 --> 01:55:37,060
that come at the expense of access to care for the community it serves.

720
01:55:38,020 --> 01:55:42,000
The amendment to the transfer agreement references preserving WakeMed's unique culture

721
01:55:42,000 --> 01:55:44,400
and commitment to serving all in the county.

722
01:55:45,080 --> 01:55:48,800
If that commitment is genuine, it must be clearly defined and enforceable.

723
01:55:49,660 --> 01:55:55,400
Today, WakeMed provides full financial assistance up to 300% of the federal poverty level.

724
01:55:56,360 --> 01:56:01,820
Atrium helps current policy provides full assistance only up to 200% of the federal poverty

725
01:56:01,820 --> 01:56:04,840
level with partial discounts above that.

726
01:56:05,320 --> 01:56:06,780
That is a meaningful difference.

727
01:56:07,380 --> 01:56:12,100
In Wake County, where the cost of living is roughly 16% higher than most of the state,

728
01:56:12,800 --> 01:56:17,720
many working families above the 200% of the federal poverty level are still struggling to

729
01:56:17,720 --> 01:56:19,120
afford basic needs.

730
01:56:20,300 --> 01:56:23,340
Federal poverty levels do not reflect local housing costs.

731
01:56:23,880 --> 01:56:28,440
In practical terms, 300% of the federal poverty level in Wake County functions more

732
01:56:28,440 --> 01:56:31,900
about 250% elsewhere in North Carolina.

733
01:56:34,260 --> 01:56:36,940
The transfer agreement also states that care must be provided

734
01:56:36,940 --> 01:56:39,100
without regard to their ability to pay.

735
01:56:39,560 --> 01:56:43,000
At the same time, this agreement relies on a 4.8%

736
01:56:43,000 --> 01:56:45,380
in-digit care requirement that is based on financial

737
01:56:45,380 --> 01:56:49,000
calculations, not clearly defined patient access.

738
01:56:49,640 --> 01:56:52,360
It does not specify what care must be provided,

739
01:56:53,020 --> 01:56:55,640
whether that includes primary care, specialty care,

740
01:56:56,060 --> 01:56:58,260
ongoing treatment, or just emergency services.

741
01:56:58,900 --> 01:57:03,840
So my question is simple, what protections are in place to ensure that patients of

742
01:57:03,840 --> 01:57:08,480
Wake County who can't afford care today will still be able to access the same level

743
01:57:08,480 --> 01:57:14,000
of care tomorrow, not just on paper, but in practice, because meeting a percentage is not

744
01:57:14,000 --> 01:57:15,940
the same as meeting the needs of this community.

745
01:57:16,640 --> 01:57:17,720
My request is straightforward.

746
01:57:18,280 --> 01:57:24,020
Before approval required that the full Wake Med Board of Directors all 14 have the authority

747
01:57:24,020 --> 01:57:30,360
to review, set, and approve patient financial policies, including financial assistance programs,

748
01:57:30,640 --> 01:57:35,300
discounted and sliding scale policies, and collection procedures, as well as any changes

749
01:57:35,300 --> 01:57:39,680
proposed by A-trium Health, and that current financial assistance standards remain intact.

750
01:57:40,320 --> 01:57:40,900
Thank you.

751
01:57:41,280 --> 01:57:42,700
Thank you.

752
01:57:43,040 --> 01:57:48,780
Next person, Adam, there was no last name, just Adam.

753
01:57:52,420 --> 01:57:56,380
Okay. Next, John Adcock.

754
01:58:06,280 --> 01:58:08,580
Mr. Chair Board of Commissioners, good evening. Thank you for this opportunity.

755
01:58:09,280 --> 01:58:11,100
I live in Southern White County in Holly Springs.

756
01:58:12,280 --> 01:58:15,360
Announced only Friday buried in a consent agenda for the following Monday

757
01:58:15,360 --> 01:58:18,500
without public engagement without evidence of any independent analysis

758
01:58:18,500 --> 01:58:20,800
without consultation with stakeholders.

759
01:58:21,440 --> 01:58:26,420
This board was prepared to approve a merger of white men that will have significant potential impacts

760
01:58:26,420 --> 01:58:28,820
to the health care provided to the residents of White County.

761
01:58:29,540 --> 01:58:34,920
This is not a strategic combination as described in the agenda materials, this is a merger,

762
01:58:35,440 --> 01:58:40,200
and notwithstanding the potential adverse impacts on health care and weight county, a merger

763
01:58:40,200 --> 01:58:45,280
that transfers significant control over a health care system that's purpose is to provide

764
01:58:45,280 --> 01:58:48,080
health care services to the residents of weight county.

765
01:58:49,240 --> 01:58:55,340
By way of example, under the proposed changes to weight meds governing documents, the county's

766
01:58:55,340 --> 01:59:01,300
appointments to the weight-med board of directors would be subject to a two-third vote by the

767
01:59:01,300 --> 01:59:07,920
weight-med board of directors, and require the accounting appointees to meet and maintain certain

768
01:59:07,920 --> 01:59:14,100
director-elgability qualifications. Atrium helps appointees to weight-med board of directors

769
01:59:14,100 --> 01:59:20,800
would not be subjected to the same conditions. If atrium health determines a weight-med director

770
01:59:20,800 --> 01:59:23,580
does not meet the director eligibility qualifications.

771
01:59:24,520 --> 01:59:27,580
Atrium Health can remove such director for calls.

772
01:59:28,280 --> 01:59:31,280
The county has no such power over atrium health,

773
01:59:31,280 --> 01:59:32,940
so point D's.

774
01:59:33,240 --> 01:59:35,940
WakeMed will be converted to a nonprofit with a member

775
01:59:35,940 --> 01:59:38,900
and the sole member will be atrium health.

776
01:59:39,500 --> 01:59:42,340
As the sole member atrium health will have the power

777
01:59:42,340 --> 01:59:45,600
to amend, wakeMed's articles of incorporation,

778
01:59:45,900 --> 01:59:49,040
and have all the powers entitled to a member

779
01:59:49,040 --> 01:59:52,780
of a non-profit under the North Carolina non-profit corporations act.

780
01:59:53,560 --> 01:59:59,960
Upon disillusion or termination of WakeMed, all of WakeMed's assets go to atrium health or any entity controlled.

781
02:00:02,020 --> 02:00:26,300
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.

782
02:00:26,300 --> 02:00:31,640
It ignores the diverse and wide-ranging implications and impacts of this merger.

783
02:00:32,560 --> 02:00:38,080
Fels to include any transparency, Fels to include any stakeholder involvement, and potentially

784
02:00:38,080 --> 02:00:43,180
could lead weight counting to taking on billions of dollars of debt if A3M health were

785
02:00:43,180 --> 02:00:43,860
to walk away.

786
02:00:44,920 --> 02:00:50,260
This transaction should not move forward without extensive public and stakeholder involvement,

787
02:00:51,080 --> 02:00:55,360
and expert in independent analysis to fully comprehend how this transaction will affect

788
02:00:55,360 --> 02:00:59,860
the health care system in the White County, the residents of White County, and the taxpayers of

789
02:00:59,860 --> 02:01:05,100
White County. My comments tonight are not in opposition to the proposed merger, but to the process

790
02:01:05,100 --> 02:01:13,960
that has got it to this point. Thank you. Thank you. And let me add also those y'all that had

791
02:01:13,960 --> 02:01:20,040
written statements or comments if you would like to lead them with our curtain before you leave. Please do so.

792
02:01:21,520 --> 02:01:25,100
Thank you, Terri, I want to sign up to speak during this general comment period.

793
02:01:25,680 --> 02:01:28,580
That completes the list of names that I was provided for this meeting.

794
02:01:29,280 --> 02:01:33,180
We also offer residents to opportunities to submit general comments online.

795
02:01:33,880 --> 02:01:35,780
This process is managed by the clerk.

796
02:01:36,120 --> 02:01:41,100
Let's give you what you kindly share in the online public comments that you received for

797
02:01:41,100 --> 02:01:41,660
this meeting.

798
02:01:42,300 --> 02:01:43,080
Yes, Mr. Chair.

799
02:01:43,400 --> 02:01:49,320
There were two comments about wigmed, not in-supported wigmed merger, and one to for you

800
02:01:49,320 --> 02:01:53,580
to support the transitional housing in the new budget. Thank you.

801
02:01:53,580 --> 02:02:00,460
Thank you, Ms. Gayart. We will now transition to our regular agenda. We only have one

802
02:02:00,460 --> 02:02:06,080
item on our regular agenda this afternoon is our county manager, David Ellis. We'll be

803
02:02:06,080 --> 02:02:09,440
making his budget presentation for the physical year of 2027.

804
02:02:16,260 --> 02:02:21,120
Can I officially request a break while we transition into the budget discussion?

805
02:02:21,860 --> 02:02:22,340
Yes.

806
02:02:24,760 --> 02:02:25,240
Okay.

807
02:02:26,100 --> 02:02:30,180
I have a motion to take a five minute break.

808
02:02:30,520 --> 02:02:30,960
Five minute break.

809
02:02:31,700 --> 02:02:31,840
Second.

810
02:02:54,960 --> 02:02:58,500
This is the ninth budget I presented to the board since I became County Manager.

811
02:02:59,180 --> 02:03:02,160
And I'll be honest, it's been the most challenging one yet.

812
02:03:02,860 --> 02:03:08,180
Our revenue is well below projections, and we've had to make tough decisions on what we can afford to fund

813
02:03:08,180 --> 02:03:12,000
without overburdening our residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

814
02:03:13,000 --> 02:03:16,180
My message to you today is different than in years past.

815
02:03:16,620 --> 02:03:20,180
It doesn't include many areas where our proposed making strategic investments.

816
02:03:21,020 --> 02:03:24,920
Instead, it will explain the many constraints on our funding for FY27

817
02:03:24,920 --> 02:03:29,000
and show you why fiscally cautious approach is necessary.

818
02:03:30,440 --> 02:03:32,260
The U.S. economy is volatile.

819
02:03:32,860 --> 02:03:35,400
One of the main reasons why is the conflict with Iran.

820
02:03:35,400 --> 02:03:38,520
A ceasefire is in place, but it's tenuous.

821
02:03:39,180 --> 02:03:44,280
The state of her moves is still not fully open, so about 20% of the world's oil supply

822
02:03:44,280 --> 02:03:44,940
is stuck.

823
02:03:45,720 --> 02:03:48,160
That's driving up prices at the pump here in Wake County.

824
02:03:48,920 --> 02:03:52,860
And I don't know about you, but the last time I filled up at Costume at $4 a gallon.

825
02:03:53,880 --> 02:03:58,640
Our inspectors and social workers drive a lot throughout the county, and the additional cost

826
02:03:58,640 --> 02:04:00,980
to fill up their county vehicles adds up quickly.

827
02:04:00,980 --> 02:04:04,880
We must account for the rising costs for gasoline in this budget.

828
02:04:06,100 --> 02:04:10,960
The war, tariffs, and other decisions made at the federal level are driving up inflation.

829
02:04:12,220 --> 02:04:14,960
In March, inflation hit 3.3 percent.

830
02:04:15,220 --> 02:04:19,780
That's up threefold from February. The largest such increase in nearly four years.

831
02:04:20,620 --> 02:04:25,180
As inflation rises, so do the prices of everyday items and services for all of us.

832
02:04:25,180 --> 02:04:37,740
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.

833
02:04:38,860 --> 02:04:46,460
There's only so much cost escalation we can absorb, which is why we have to factor these increases into the FY27 budget.

834
02:04:48,060 --> 02:04:50,880
Inflation is also impacting consumers behavior.

835
02:04:51,700 --> 02:04:54,060
A survey about the University of Michigan found that the consumer

836
02:04:54,060 --> 02:04:58,800
sentiment has dropped to a record low of 47.6 percent.

837
02:04:59,240 --> 02:04:59,960
That's lower than...

838
02:05:00,000 --> 02:05:06,520
Any rates seen in a post-World War II era, including during the Great Recession, the pandemic, and

839
02:05:06,520 --> 02:05:13,340
historic inflation surge afterwards. Fears of stag, inflation, or another recession are growing.

840
02:05:14,920 --> 02:05:19,320
We're seeing the ripple effects. More people are coming away County Government for help.

841
02:05:20,020 --> 02:05:25,580
Some can go, some can no longer afford the basics. As public servants were dedicated to helping

842
02:05:25,580 --> 02:05:29,520
residents who can't meet their basic needs in this volatile economy.

843
02:05:30,720 --> 02:05:34,820
But the reality is that the more support we offer, the more it cost us.

844
02:05:36,300 --> 02:05:40,280
Perhaps in a typical year, these increased costs wouldn't be such a budgetary challenge.

845
02:05:41,300 --> 02:05:44,880
Unfortunately, as you know, 2026 is anything but typical.

846
02:05:45,920 --> 02:05:51,340
As you know, the property taxes are main source of revenue, and it comprises about 75%

847
02:05:51,340 --> 02:05:52,680
of our funding each year.

848
02:05:53,800 --> 02:06:00,900
We've come to expect the property tax to generate $40 to $50 million in new revenue annually from growth in the tax space.

849
02:06:01,620 --> 02:06:03,480
That's not the case for FY27.

850
02:06:04,400 --> 02:06:06,940
We're looking at only $8 million in new revenue.

851
02:06:08,000 --> 02:06:11,100
The property tax usually generates $40 to $50 million.

852
02:06:12,440 --> 02:06:16,960
In FY27, it's only $8 million and that's a significant difference.

853
02:06:18,240 --> 02:06:20,960
There are two main reasons why we're seeing this revenue shortfall.

854
02:06:21,980 --> 02:06:29,360
The first one is appeals. Each time we complete a evaluation cycle, folks can question the new value we place on their property.

855
02:06:30,260 --> 02:06:36,360
About 2% of property owners appeal to the county's Board of Equalization and Review, which is very low,

856
02:06:36,820 --> 02:06:43,220
and reinforces how accurate their praises are. But 2% in way county is still about 8900 appeals.

857
02:06:44,660 --> 02:06:50,080
Property owners who didn't receive the ruling they wanted from our board of E&R filed more than 1500

858
02:06:50,080 --> 02:06:55,920
appeals with the North Carolina Property Tax Commission. It's the highest number we've ever seen at that level.

859
02:06:56,860 --> 02:07:00,940
Most of the tax values and commercial properties which have trended downward in value.

860
02:07:02,780 --> 02:07:09,580
For context, appealing to the state as a lengthy process, it's very formal involves a lot of staff time and meetings.

861
02:07:09,580 --> 02:07:15,620
So, the pace of this process is not swift, and counties have no control over any of it.

862
02:07:16,580 --> 02:07:19,720
As of May there are still more than 750 open appeals,

863
02:07:20,680 --> 02:07:23,780
leave in a large amount of our tax space undetermined.

864
02:07:24,520 --> 02:07:27,520
It will take months for the remaining appeals to be processed.

865
02:07:28,560 --> 02:07:31,680
Millions more property tax dollars are still hanging in the balance.

866
02:07:32,380 --> 02:07:35,340
That unknown creates a lot of risk for the county.

867
02:07:36,590 --> 02:07:42,830
Overall, staff estimate a revenue loss of $18 million in FY27 from appeals.

868
02:07:44,370 --> 02:07:49,050
The other major factor in fluency in our property tax revenue short call is exemptions.

869
02:07:50,290 --> 02:07:53,690
Currently, state laws allow non-profits that provide housing to residents

870
02:07:53,690 --> 02:07:57,850
with low or moderate incomes to be exempt from paying property taxes.

871
02:07:58,750 --> 02:08:02,630
This is a good thing for our nonprofit partners who help connect people with affordable housing.

872
02:08:02,630 --> 02:08:08,410
But the law is vague, which can create issues when it's not used as it was likely intended.

873
02:08:10,070 --> 02:08:14,950
A great example is the North Carolina Court of Appeals in case involving Mitchell County,

874
02:08:15,590 --> 02:08:19,110
North Carolina, and the Blue Ridge Housing of Bakersville, LLC.

875
02:08:23,160 --> 02:08:29,340
The issue centered on ownership, the ownership structure of an apartment complex that house low-income folks.

876
02:08:30,060 --> 02:08:34,300
99.9% of the apartment complex was owned by a four-profit investor.

877
02:08:36,700 --> 02:08:43,440
The remaining 0.1%, the remaining 0.1% was owned by a nonprofit.

878
02:08:44,760 --> 02:08:47,980
The owners applied for a property tax exemption from Mitchell County,

879
02:08:48,560 --> 02:08:49,500
and the county said no.

880
02:08:50,420 --> 02:08:52,620
So Blue Ridge Housing took the county to court.

881
02:08:53,300 --> 02:08:56,780
The court did a balancing test weighing factors like control of operations

882
02:08:56,780 --> 02:08:58,840
and intent of participating parties.

883
02:09:00,440 --> 02:09:03,640
Ultimately, the court decided that Blue Ridge Housing and the nonprofit

884
02:09:03,640 --> 02:09:09,100
but should be exempt from paying property taxes in Mitchell County, even though the non-profit

885
02:09:09,100 --> 02:09:11,940
had less than 0.1% ownership.

886
02:09:12,840 --> 02:09:17,500
The court also did not define what the law means when it says low and moderate income

887
02:09:17,500 --> 02:09:18,160
residents.

888
02:09:19,700 --> 02:09:24,980
The law's ambiguity has created a loophole and has significant implications for our revenues.

889
02:09:26,240 --> 02:09:31,780
You can see that over the past two years the number of exemptions has skyrocketed.

890
02:09:31,780 --> 02:09:37,520
Overall, FY27, we expect to lose $12.3 million to this loophole.

891
02:09:38,860 --> 02:09:42,920
And let's be clear, most of these are not what we would call traditional affordable housing.

892
02:09:43,640 --> 02:09:46,860
They're old apartment buildings that have been fully taxable for decades.

893
02:09:47,580 --> 02:09:51,460
The rents they charge to the tenants are already less than 80% of the area meeting income.

894
02:09:52,220 --> 02:09:57,520
And we've seen no sign that the apartment owners are passing the savings that they receive onto the residents.

895
02:09:59,020 --> 02:09:59,960
So here's a good example.

896
02:10:00,300 --> 02:10:26,040
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.

897
02:10:28,330 --> 02:10:29,970
This trend doesn't seem to be going away.

898
02:10:29,970 --> 02:10:37,710
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.

899
02:10:39,030 --> 02:10:43,630
Each envelope represents an apartment complex that the owners believe should not be taxed.

900
02:10:45,110 --> 02:10:53,090
In our tax administrators opinion, the growing number of exemptions is the biggest threat to the county's revenue that he could ever imagine.

901
02:10:54,430 --> 02:10:59,410
The North Carolina General Assembly formed a House Committee to discuss the Blue Ridge Housing

902
02:10:59,410 --> 02:11:01,550
Loophole and other property tax issues.

903
02:11:02,690 --> 02:11:07,210
Some members of public said they are committed to closing a loophole which is great and we

904
02:11:07,210 --> 02:11:11,810
support their efforts to clarify the statute so it can be applied as originally intended.

905
02:11:12,790 --> 02:11:14,630
On true affordable housing properties.

906
02:11:16,230 --> 02:11:21,750
However, if nothing changes and a loophole remains the same, that our largest revenue stream

907
02:11:21,750 --> 02:11:24,010
will remain a trickle in FY28.

908
02:11:25,450 --> 02:11:27,550
We could face significant financial impacts

909
02:11:27,550 --> 02:11:30,010
that will put our existing programs and services

910
02:11:30,750 --> 02:11:33,090
as well as education funding at risk.

911
02:11:34,850 --> 02:11:36,810
I'm not saying this to you all to be an alarmist,

912
02:11:36,990 --> 02:11:38,430
but it's my duty as county manager

913
02:11:38,910 --> 02:11:42,090
to share the realities of our budget situation with you

914
02:11:42,090 --> 02:11:45,070
as elected leaders so you can make informed decisions.

915
02:11:47,930 --> 02:11:51,270
A few weeks ago, the House Committee also recommended

916
02:11:51,270 --> 02:11:53,770
to cap on future property tax increases.

917
02:11:54,850 --> 02:11:56,990
They want to put a question on the November ballot,

918
02:11:57,390 --> 02:11:59,370
asking voters statewide if they want to change

919
02:11:59,370 --> 02:12:02,330
the North Carolina Constitution to limit how much

920
02:12:02,330 --> 02:12:05,090
local governments can increase the property tax each year.

921
02:12:05,890 --> 02:12:09,670
If it passed, it would take away local control over local budgets.

922
02:12:11,730 --> 02:12:15,530
The property tax is the only tax that county cities and towns

923
02:12:15,530 --> 02:12:17,850
have authority and discretion over.

924
02:12:18,310 --> 02:12:20,010
And it's our largest funding source.

925
02:12:20,590 --> 02:12:26,210
Putting limits on it would take away the flexibility we need to plan for the future as the third

926
02:12:26,210 --> 02:12:29,050
fastest growing county of our size in the nation.

927
02:12:29,210 --> 02:12:30,190
Let me repeat that.

928
02:12:30,310 --> 02:12:34,890
We're the third fastest growing county of our size in the nation.

929
02:12:35,990 --> 02:12:37,130
We don't have a crystal ball.

930
02:12:37,430 --> 02:12:39,330
We can't always see what's coming around the corner.

931
02:12:40,390 --> 02:12:44,810
As an example, no one predicted that we go through a global pandemic in 2020.

932
02:12:46,430 --> 02:12:51,730
Maintaining control over our top revenue source gives us options when the unexpected happens.

933
02:12:52,710 --> 02:12:58,150
It also allows us to prepare for the demands of growth and build a multi-year budget forecast

934
02:12:58,650 --> 02:13:02,670
that supports our residents and sustains the high quality of life they enjoy.

935
02:13:05,920 --> 02:13:10,360
A better way to keep the property tax low is where the state to increase its investment

936
02:13:10,360 --> 02:13:16,200
and it here is like education, public safety, and foster care that are chronically underfunded.

937
02:13:17,700 --> 02:13:21,500
Then county governments wouldn't have to step in and fill the financial gap.

938
02:13:23,930 --> 02:13:28,630
The White County Public School System Superintendent and the School Board come to the Board

939
02:13:28,630 --> 02:13:34,050
of County Commissioners every year asking for financial support because they have nowhere else

940
02:13:34,050 --> 02:13:34,790
to turn.

941
02:13:35,850 --> 02:13:41,630
Without our help, they can't pay staff sustainable wages or provide student support services.

942
02:13:42,550 --> 02:13:49,630
They also won't have the one nurse for every two schools, which are public health department staffs at a cost of $15 million.

943
02:13:51,610 --> 02:13:57,470
Our board believes that a top-notch education is vital to the success of Wake County's youth.

944
02:13:58,130 --> 02:14:01,310
Strong schools are also good for the local economy.

945
02:14:02,090 --> 02:14:06,670
Businesses want to expand in communities with a vibrant school system.

946
02:14:07,170 --> 02:14:09,910
That's why education is a top-local priority.

947
02:14:10,970 --> 02:14:12,830
We cannot allow our schools to falter.

948
02:14:14,770 --> 02:14:17,370
But it's not statutory our role.

949
02:14:17,950 --> 02:14:22,230
We're required to fund school construction, which comes out of our capital program,

950
02:14:22,610 --> 02:14:26,650
and facility maintenance, which comes out of our annual school appropriation.

951
02:14:27,230 --> 02:14:33,470
We're not required to fund employee pay increases, student support services, or anything else

952
02:14:33,470 --> 02:14:35,510
that improves school performance.

953
02:14:36,490 --> 02:14:40,950
That is the state's job, but we're not, but they're not doing it, and we've got the

954
02:14:40,950 --> 02:14:41,470
receipts.

955
02:14:43,470 --> 02:14:45,390
Look at the latest per pupil data.

956
02:14:46,190 --> 02:14:52,910
It shows the state invested only $7,400 in each way county student, ranking the school district,

957
02:14:52,910 --> 02:14:59,850
a 110th out of 116th. Compare that to the counties for people investment.

958
02:15:00,000 --> 02:15:09,980
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.

959
02:15:12,140 --> 02:15:20,000
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.

960
02:15:21,540 --> 02:15:28,680
In FY26 alone, we could have saved nearly $530 million dollars, and avoided a property tax

961
02:15:28,680 --> 02:15:33,120
increase if the state had fulfilled its obligation and provided the school system with

962
02:15:33,120 --> 02:15:34,100
the funding it needed.

963
02:15:36,020 --> 02:15:37,300
The same goes for Wake Tech.

964
02:15:37,560 --> 02:15:43,420
We routinely invest county tax dollars in Wake Tech operations were increased in structure

965
02:15:43,420 --> 02:15:49,960
pay, new classroom technology, and more IT staff to oversee network infrastructure and security.

966
02:15:51,120 --> 02:15:57,620
Again, this goes beyond what General statute requires, but without it, the largest community

967
02:15:57,620 --> 02:16:01,920
college in the state and its students would not be successful.

968
02:16:03,100 --> 02:16:08,000
That's not what we want for weight tech, which trains the workforces of the global lifestyles

969
02:16:08,000 --> 02:16:09,620
companies across our region.

970
02:16:11,180 --> 02:16:16,580
If the state filled the gap instead of the county, it could save us about $8 million annually.

971
02:16:17,860 --> 02:16:22,980
Another place where we're spending county dollars on state responsibilities is our jail.

972
02:16:23,620 --> 02:16:27,300
It currently houses more than 100 inmates who should be in state custody.

973
02:16:28,400 --> 02:16:33,840
Do the staffing shortages of the state prison can't house them so they remain in county custody.

974
02:16:34,820 --> 02:16:37,820
If these inmates could go directly to prison, state prison,

975
02:16:38,460 --> 02:16:45,660
we would save $3 million a year, reducing jail operational costs and lowering demand for additional beds.

976
02:16:47,700 --> 02:16:52,560
The state also doesn't provide enough funding for resources to support false to you.

977
02:16:52,940 --> 02:16:57,820
Their needs are complex and their aren't enough false to families and treatment providers

978
02:16:57,820 --> 02:17:00,600
who have the skills to care for them.

979
02:17:01,020 --> 02:17:04,760
Because the state is not providing adequate placement for youth and need of treatment,

980
02:17:05,480 --> 02:17:10,240
Wake County is binding renovating the facility where they can be safely housed.

981
02:17:11,160 --> 02:17:15,320
You don't have a more appropriate amenities to mirror the feel of a home, and it will be

982
02:17:15,320 --> 02:17:17,340
much better solution than an office building.

983
02:17:18,440 --> 02:17:25,380
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.

984
02:17:25,780 --> 02:17:26,800
That's nine million dollars.

985
02:17:27,480 --> 02:17:31,660
We wouldn't have had to spend if the state better supported these youth and need.

986
02:17:33,750 --> 02:17:36,610
When it comes to sales tax, the state isn't doing us any favors.

987
02:17:37,950 --> 02:17:39,070
Wake County is the donor county.

988
02:17:39,190 --> 02:17:44,830
That means we're required to give up eight to nine million dollars in sales tax revenue every year,

989
02:17:44,830 --> 02:17:47,810
So, the state can redistribute it to other counties.

990
02:17:50,010 --> 02:17:55,590
We've added up all the areas where the county steps in and fills the budgetary holes left by the state.

991
02:17:56,750 --> 02:18:01,210
The total in FY26 was $600 million.

992
02:18:03,050 --> 02:18:09,690
If we didn't have to stand in that gap, we could have lowered property tax by 19 cents.

993
02:18:10,470 --> 02:18:16,770
Let me repeat that, if the state did its part, we could have lowered our property tax rate

994
02:18:16,770 --> 02:18:24,310
by 19 cent. That would have saved the owner of a $450,000 home, almost $900.

995
02:18:26,390 --> 02:18:32,110
And it's dependence on county support is only going to get worse. The one big beautiful

996
02:18:32,110 --> 02:18:38,570
bill is cutting federal funding to administer SNAP, a vital food assistance program by 25% and

997
02:18:38,570 --> 02:18:45,110
We're pushing the responsibility for funding the remaining 75% down to North Carolina counties, starting in FY 27.

998
02:18:46,350 --> 02:18:49,650
We'll lose about $3 million in reimbursements annually.

999
02:18:51,840 --> 02:18:56,500
The bill will also impose stricter requirements on Medicaid participants, starting in January,

1000
02:18:56,820 --> 02:19:01,220
left to go through more research vacations and more work requirements checks to get benefits.

1001
02:19:02,020 --> 02:19:04,380
The paperwork strain on counties will be tremendous.

1002
02:19:05,220 --> 02:19:13,500
We plan to add 25 new positions in FY27, and our social services department, just to review and

1003
02:19:13,500 --> 02:19:15,440
process that information on time.

1004
02:19:19,140 --> 02:19:25,720
We have to spend more money to provide the same benefits to the 220,000 people enrolled in

1005
02:19:25,720 --> 02:19:26,780
Medicaid in Wake County.

1006
02:19:28,700 --> 02:19:33,060
We're taking on all this additional burden because we can't let local residents and families

1007
02:19:33,060 --> 02:19:39,140
need go un-served. But another example of the state legislature and Congress, falling short

1008
02:19:39,140 --> 02:19:42,640
of their fiscal responsibilities, and passing the buck to us.

1009
02:19:44,690 --> 02:19:45,830
County taxpayers should be

1010
02:19:45,830 --> 02:19:50,690
where should be aware of the financial burden the state is placing on them. The general assembly

1011
02:19:50,690 --> 02:19:56,450
can reduce that burden by passing a budget that fully funds education, public safety, and social

1012
02:19:56,450 --> 02:19:59,970
services, it will help us keep them.

1013
02:20:00,000 --> 02:20:04,340
Property Tax Low, while ensuring our residents are healthy, safe, and supported.

1014
02:20:06,560 --> 02:20:09,480
Unfortunately, we can't wait for the legislature to do the right thing.

1015
02:20:10,560 --> 02:20:12,840
We have to make decisions based on current conditions.

1016
02:20:14,180 --> 02:20:21,360
And so, therefore, I recommend investing $8 million we have in new property tax revenue in public safety for FY27.

1017
02:20:22,720 --> 02:20:28,900
I propose creating 16 new EMT positions for Wake County EMS to meet the growing demand for service.

1018
02:20:28,900 --> 02:20:35,200
As our population increases in ages, 9-1 calls for emergency medical care on the rise.

1019
02:20:36,560 --> 02:20:39,500
Last year alone, they jumped by 4%.

1020
02:20:39,500 --> 02:20:46,060
These new positions will ensure that every resident continues to get the help they need when they need it.

1021
02:20:46,840 --> 02:20:53,660
I also recommend continuing to fund our fire services training manager position, which leads the recruitment and training of a new firefighters.

1022
02:20:53,660 --> 02:21:01,100
We funded this important role in using American Recovery Plan Act or ARPERDOS, but since

1023
02:21:01,100 --> 02:21:04,780
they're going to weigh in December, we're shifting our county dollars to cover the cost.

1024
02:21:05,800 --> 02:21:12,780
The highly successful career in a year program launched in October of 2022, 53 graduates

1025
02:21:12,780 --> 02:21:17,220
of the program continue to work in weight county keeping our community safe.

1026
02:21:20,020 --> 02:21:24,920
Our largest public safety investment in FY27 will be expanding weight county's detention

1027
02:21:24,920 --> 02:21:31,220
services. The jail population has increased steadily over the past few years, and some of

1028
02:21:31,220 --> 02:21:36,220
that simply do to growth of our community, more people more crime, but as I previously

1029
02:21:36,220 --> 02:21:41,120
mentioned, we're routinely housing more than 100 inmates who should be in state prison

1030
02:21:41,120 --> 02:21:42,600
and not the county jail.

1031
02:21:44,780 --> 02:21:48,100
Another issue is offenders are remaining in our custody for longer periods

1032
02:21:48,100 --> 02:21:53,300
of time. The types of crime they're committing are more serious, and magistrates and judges

1033
02:21:53,300 --> 02:21:55,880
are less likely to release them while they away trial.

1034
02:21:56,680 --> 02:22:00,740
Our renaissance law, which went into effect in December, restricts bail for violent crimes

1035
02:22:00,740 --> 02:22:02,960
in increases the length of stay for offenders.

1036
02:22:04,160 --> 02:22:09,340
A lack of state funding and staffing shortages in a court system also slowed down the speed

1037
02:22:09,340 --> 02:22:10,020
of justice.

1038
02:22:11,760 --> 02:22:14,860
All of these factors increase the need for more beds.

1039
02:22:15,240 --> 02:22:17,280
That's why we're reopening the jail annex.

1040
02:22:17,880 --> 02:22:20,540
It led 240 beds to expand capacity.

1041
02:22:20,540 --> 02:22:26,600
While we've already appropriated funding to renovate the annex before we open it, we will

1042
02:22:26,600 --> 02:22:29,280
have new costs associated with opening of facility.

1043
02:22:31,340 --> 02:22:35,920
In consultation with Sheriff Row, we're adding 92 detention positions to staff the annex

1044
02:22:35,920 --> 02:22:41,780
and ensure safety with salary and benefits that will cost us about $7 million in FY27.

1045
02:22:42,400 --> 02:22:46,800
It's a significant investment, one that state law requires the county to accommodate.

1046
02:22:48,280 --> 02:23:01,420
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.

1047
02:23:02,860 --> 02:23:07,660
The biggest request for a financial support came from the Wake County Public Schools system.

1048
02:23:07,660 --> 02:23:13,980
Superintendent Taylor's asking for $25.3 million in additional funding for FY27.

1049
02:23:14,980 --> 02:23:22,440
That's on top of the $743 million we provided them in FY26 for facility maintenance and operating expenses.

1050
02:23:23,920 --> 02:23:27,920
Although $768 million is a lot of money, it's necessary.

1051
02:23:28,780 --> 02:23:35,820
Without it, the school district would have to make significant cuts that would impact students' ability to learn and achieve academically.

1052
02:23:37,240 --> 02:23:42,340
Sadly, even though White County public school system is North Carolina's largest school district,

1053
02:23:42,940 --> 02:23:47,640
it remains at the bottom of the state's list for per people funding from the General Assembly.

1054
02:23:49,340 --> 02:23:54,320
No one wants to risk our children's success, and since the state has not fulfilled its responsibility

1055
02:23:54,320 --> 02:23:59,780
to fully fund our schools, I recommend that we step in once again, so that the school district

1056
02:23:59,780 --> 02:24:03,680
can continue to give students the excellent education they deserve.

1057
02:24:04,920 --> 02:24:08,820
Wake Tech is also asked us for more funding in FY27 budget.

1058
02:24:09,660 --> 02:24:14,380
Dr. Rawls and his team need $1.8 million to continue to support facility maintenance,

1059
02:24:15,160 --> 02:24:19,620
pay IT and administrative staff, and cover rising utility costs.

1060
02:24:20,800 --> 02:24:25,740
I propose providing these additional funds on top of the $42 million we gave them in FY26.

1061
02:24:26,600 --> 02:24:31,760
That brings our FY27 investment in Wake Tech's operating to $44 million.

1062
02:24:34,000 --> 02:24:40,100
Smart Start is the final education provider that requested additional funding in the FY27 budget.

1063
02:24:41,180 --> 02:24:46,140
I recommend investing $2 million in this organization to support Wake 3 School for 3

1064
02:24:46,140 --> 02:24:50,180
year olds and pre-K for 4 year olds who meet income requirements.

1065
02:24:51,280 --> 02:24:56,700
These new dollars would be on top of the $8 million we invested in Smart Start in FY26.

1066
02:24:58,000 --> 02:24:59,980
this 10 million dollar investment would.

1067
02:25:00,000 --> 02:25:08,310
Bill funding gaps left by the state and at 15 new seats to wait 3 school. Currently more than 2,000 children

1068
02:25:08,310 --> 02:25:15,030
are enrolled in these programs and 900 others are on a waiting list. If we don't step in and

1069
02:25:15,030 --> 02:25:21,390
help, we risk our youngest, most vulnerable residents falling behind before they even get to kindergarten.

1070
02:25:23,700 --> 02:25:29,700
In all my budget recommendation would invest $823 million in education for operating expense.

1071
02:25:29,700 --> 02:25:37,140
expenses. That's about 65% and about 65% of that is directly due to the lack of financial

1072
02:25:37,140 --> 02:25:38,820
support coming from the state.

1073
02:25:41,240 --> 02:25:44,020
Looking ahead, county staff asked the board to continue meeting

1074
02:25:44,020 --> 02:25:48,880
at statutory responsibility by placing a referendum on the November ballot for the school

1075
02:25:48,880 --> 02:25:55,440
system in Wake Tech. To $830 million, the bonds would fund much the building construction,

1076
02:25:56,280 --> 02:25:58,500
IT infrastructure, and facility maintenance.

1077
02:26:01,510 --> 02:26:03,330
Just like our education partners are concerned

1078
02:26:03,330 --> 02:26:09,030
about attracting and remaining, attracting and retaining top teachers, I'm also focused on recruiting

1079
02:26:09,030 --> 02:26:11,930
the best employees and keeping them here at Wake County.

1080
02:26:12,930 --> 02:26:15,610
And I can't do that if I can't provide competitive pay.

1081
02:26:16,950 --> 02:26:19,270
Team Wake is more than 5,000 employees strong.

1082
02:26:19,830 --> 02:26:25,970
Our staff is smart, skilled, and passionate about serving our 1.2 million residents every day.

1083
02:26:26,490 --> 02:26:31,130
Our employees are essential to achieve an account of mission, meeting goals of your strategic

1084
02:26:31,130 --> 02:26:34,270
plan and providing excellent customer service.

1085
02:26:35,830 --> 02:26:40,610
Without them, we can make progress in critical spaces like affordable housing, public safety,

1086
02:26:40,890 --> 02:26:42,750
social services, and public health.

1087
02:26:44,070 --> 02:26:48,710
I want to remain competitive in how we pay our staff, not only is it the right thing to

1088
02:26:48,710 --> 02:26:54,590
do, but as the county grows by 66 people a day, we can't afford to lose team members to

1089
02:26:54,590 --> 02:26:56,230
another employer who pays better.

1090
02:26:56,230 --> 02:27:02,210
That's why I recommend, in the FY27 budget, a market range adjustment and pay increase for

1091
02:27:02,210 --> 02:27:02,810
team weight.

1092
02:27:03,650 --> 02:27:08,770
Well, performing members would receive a 1 to 3 percent raise, while outstanding performance

1093
02:27:08,770 --> 02:27:12,270
would get a 4 percent, a pay increase of up to 4 and a half percent.

1094
02:27:13,650 --> 02:27:17,630
The new investment in education and county staff come with a cost.

1095
02:27:18,490 --> 02:27:22,890
To find the additional funds, we scrubbed our ledgers, delayed some projects like the opening

1096
02:27:22,890 --> 02:27:24,690
of Kellum Wyatt County Park.

1097
02:27:24,690 --> 02:27:31,350
We also said no to about 40 budget expansion requests this year, totaling ten and a half million dollars.

1098
02:27:32,930 --> 02:27:39,390
Items were not funding include food and logic, additional food and logic and inspectors to conduct more timely inspections

1099
02:27:39,390 --> 02:27:48,850
of restaurants, hotels, childcare facilities, customer service representatives in social services to support rising call volumes.

1100
02:27:50,570 --> 02:27:53,150
Environmental consultants to meet the increasing demand for

1101
02:27:53,150 --> 02:27:56,030
septic system inspections in our fast growing community.

1102
02:27:57,230 --> 02:27:59,570
And the food security pilot programs we launched during the

1103
02:27:59,570 --> 02:28:01,930
pandemic with federal arpidolers.

1104
02:28:02,230 --> 02:28:04,870
They served more than 3,400 people annually.

1105
02:28:07,350 --> 02:28:10,230
While weight county is an urban area that some consider a fluent,

1106
02:28:11,290 --> 02:28:16,130
more than 100,000 residents fall below the federal poverty line.

1107
02:28:16,690 --> 02:28:18,270
And so let me just repeat that.

1108
02:28:18,270 --> 02:28:22,810
more than 100,000 of our residents fall below the federal poverty line.

1109
02:28:23,850 --> 02:28:29,430
We need every dollar to help support education, public housing, health, and public safety.

1110
02:28:31,860 --> 02:28:37,240
In my eight years as county manager, I've never proposed using one-time funds to cover ongoing

1111
02:28:37,240 --> 02:28:42,400
operating costs because it's not sustainable, but we're facing a unique property tax-based

1112
02:28:42,400 --> 02:28:42,900
challenge.

1113
02:28:43,860 --> 02:28:47,460
I'm hopeful the state legislature will do the right thing and fix the Blue Ridge loophole

1114
02:28:47,460 --> 02:28:53,040
and other state funding gaps, and that's why I recommend using $35 million from our reserves

1115
02:28:53,040 --> 02:28:57,660
to plug the hole in our general fund so we can continue county operations.

1116
02:28:59,860 --> 02:29:04,280
Even with that one-time investment, we still need to increase the property tax rate in FY27

1117
02:29:04,880 --> 02:29:09,680
by two cent to meet the needs of our growing community. That would raise the property tax rate

1118
02:29:09,680 --> 02:29:17,180
to 53.71 cent and generated an additional 62 million $62 million dollars.

1119
02:29:17,280 --> 02:29:23,700
As an example, the owner of a $450,000 home would see a $90 increase in their tax bill.

1120
02:29:26,240 --> 02:29:32,260
Out of all 100 counties in North Carolina, 67 of them had a higher tax rate than Wake County

1121
02:29:32,260 --> 02:29:33,560
did in FY26.

1122
02:29:34,740 --> 02:29:40,480
Even with my proposed tax increase, Estimates Show will still be in the bottom third in FY27.

1123
02:29:41,820 --> 02:29:48,380
My proposed FY27 budget told us $2 billion, $282 million in $21,000.

1124
02:29:49,400 --> 02:29:55,240
It accounts for rising costs that stem from federal decisions, including the conflict in

1125
02:29:55,240 --> 02:29:59,860
ran and tears on foreign goods. The recommended

1126
02:30:00,000 --> 02:30:05,700
Budget also subsidized areas where state funding continues to fall short. It will support the growing

1127
02:30:05,700 --> 02:30:11,340
needs of Wake County Public School System, Wake Tech, and Smart Start. And it will ensure the

1128
02:30:11,340 --> 02:30:15,040
housing needs of foster youth and offenders in our jail or net.

1129
02:30:17,130 --> 02:30:19,110
As a reminder, state leaders fully

1130
02:30:19,110 --> 02:30:25,090
funded these areas and others under their purview, our property tax rate will be around 30 cent.

1131
02:30:25,090 --> 02:30:27,650
Let me just repeat that one more time.

1132
02:30:28,450 --> 02:30:33,070
Our property tax rate could drop to 30 cent if the state did its part.

1133
02:30:33,910 --> 02:30:38,250
But by pushing financial responsibility to the counties, they're forcing their hand and

1134
02:30:38,250 --> 02:30:39,810
causing us to raise your taxes.

1135
02:30:42,070 --> 02:30:46,690
I also want to point out that for the last three years, this board has advocated to expand

1136
02:30:46,690 --> 02:30:51,850
property tax relief for low-income residents, veterans, and elderly, and the state has

1137
02:30:51,850 --> 02:30:52,790
been unresponsive.

1138
02:30:54,130 --> 02:31:04,790
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.

1139
02:31:06,050 --> 02:31:13,370
With this budget, we also commit to doing all we can to sustain our programs and services within our current fiscal constraints.

1140
02:31:16,700 --> 02:31:22,500
Before I close out this presentation, I want to offer some words of warning about the FY28 budget.

1141
02:31:24,040 --> 02:31:32,480
If the state doesn't close the Blue Ridge loophole and the state caps the property tax, we will have to make cuts.

1142
02:31:33,080 --> 02:31:41,840
That could look like reducing operating hours for certain programs, scaling back certain program investments, and potentially cutting funding for education.

1143
02:31:43,620 --> 02:31:47,060
These are not steps I want to take and I know they're not steps you want to take either.

1144
02:31:47,060 --> 02:31:53,100
The good news is there's still time to prevent them from happening if the state acts accordingly.

1145
02:31:55,510 --> 02:32:00,290
Just want to take a brief moment to thank the budget and management services department.

1146
02:32:01,110 --> 02:32:03,730
We're going to group in the past very back and back.

1147
02:32:12,530 --> 02:32:14,630
They worked extremely hard in this proposal.

1148
02:32:15,310 --> 02:32:19,750
We spent some late evenings trying to get the budget balanced.

1149
02:32:20,390 --> 02:32:23,570
And they just did a Yeoman job and really appreciate this effort.

1150
02:32:23,570 --> 02:32:38,790
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.

1151
02:32:39,710 --> 02:32:43,570
And so now I want to switch a little bit and talk about the next steps in the budget process.

1152
02:32:44,270 --> 02:32:51,250
We hope residents are watching the live stream and following our social media because their thoughts and feedback on this recommendation are important.

1153
02:32:51,970 --> 02:32:55,210
So, starting tonight, they can submit comments on our website,

1154
02:32:55,530 --> 02:32:57,190
weight.gov slash budget.

1155
02:32:58,290 --> 02:33:01,250
On May 11th, we'll hold a board work session dedicated to

1156
02:33:01,250 --> 02:33:03,010
the proposed budget at 2 p.m.

1157
02:33:03,190 --> 02:33:04,770
at the Wake County Justice Center.

1158
02:33:05,750 --> 02:33:07,250
Later, that evening, we'll hold our first

1159
02:33:07,250 --> 02:33:09,190
budget public hearing at 7 p.m.

1160
02:33:09,190 --> 02:33:10,870
at the Wake County Commons building.

1161
02:33:12,030 --> 02:33:15,250
Our second budget public hearing will take place on May 18th

1162
02:33:15,870 --> 02:33:17,830
during the board's regular 2 p.m. meeting.

1163
02:33:18,710 --> 02:33:21,830
The public can submit online comments through May 20th.

1164
02:33:22,430 --> 02:33:25,790
We'll provide every comment we receive to the commissioners for review.

1165
02:33:26,630 --> 02:33:31,250
On May 21st, the board will hold a second budget work session to consider public feedback,

1166
02:33:31,990 --> 02:33:37,070
and identify any changes to the recommended budget for consideration on June 1st.

1167
02:33:37,190 --> 02:33:43,250
And that's the day I'll bring the proposed budget to you for a vote during the regularly scheduled 5pm board meeting.

1168
02:33:44,210 --> 02:33:49,430
As always, the materials that explain what's in the FY27 budget are on our website.

1169
02:33:50,230 --> 02:33:55,250
Wake.gov slash budget and we encourage you to read through them and learn how funding

1170
02:33:55,250 --> 02:33:58,370
allocations will move the strategic plan forward.

1171
02:33:58,730 --> 02:34:02,610
And you'll see why our vision statement says we're passionate about these proactive

1172
02:34:02,610 --> 02:34:04,850
purposeful investments in our community.

1173
02:34:05,790 --> 02:34:08,890
So I want to thank you for your time and your consideration today.

1174
02:34:09,670 --> 02:34:10,330
And that's it.

1175
02:34:10,450 --> 02:34:10,990
Thank you.

1176
02:34:11,850 --> 02:34:14,090
Thank you, Manager Ellis.

1177
02:34:22,540 --> 02:34:26,280
Okay, board members, there's a need to,

1178
02:34:26,280 --> 02:34:29,240
motion to construct the county and manage to organize a process

1179
02:34:29,240 --> 02:34:32,160
for receiving virtual public comments on the recommend

1180
02:34:32,160 --> 02:34:34,300
the budget and to hold public hearing

1181
02:34:34,300 --> 02:34:36,560
and budget work session on the dates provided

1182
02:34:36,560 --> 02:34:38,520
and to consider the budget for adoption

1183
02:34:38,520 --> 02:34:41,220
at the June 1st Board of Commission meeting.

1184
02:34:41,740 --> 02:34:43,820
So, is there a motion to approve this action?

1185
02:34:44,240 --> 02:34:44,820
Mr. Chairman.

1186
02:34:46,320 --> 02:34:48,320
Here, who's made a motion?

1187
02:34:48,600 --> 02:34:49,440
Susan, so moved.

1188
02:34:49,440 --> 02:34:50,520
No, commission.

1189
02:34:51,780 --> 02:34:52,660
Even, there we go.

1190
02:34:52,820 --> 02:34:54,240
Second, uh, about commission times.

1191
02:34:54,400 --> 02:34:56,760
I was going to read the entire motion for the record.

1192
02:34:57,160 --> 02:34:59,960
But that's fine if you are okay with me not.

1193
02:35:00,000 --> 02:35:06,940
No, go ahead, please. I think it's important. I move that the Board of Commissioners received the recommended fiscal year,

1194
02:35:07,220 --> 02:35:17,600
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,

1195
02:35:17,880 --> 02:35:27,780
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.

1196
02:35:27,780 --> 02:35:48,780
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.

1197
02:35:49,880 --> 02:35:55,240
Thank you. Thank you. I'll second that. Okay, we've got a motion. Commission Thomas, a second

1198
02:35:55,240 --> 02:36:02,980
amount of commission. It is. All in favor, please say aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Any pose, please say nay. Not

1199
02:36:02,980 --> 02:36:11,320
here and in the motion carries. Thank you. Now, let's move on to appointments. Madame Vice Chair

1200
02:36:11,320 --> 02:36:15,920
Jackson, does the Board of Commission have any appointments to make to the Assistant Advisory Board

1201
02:36:15,920 --> 02:36:19,580
our commission at this time? Yes, we do.

1202
02:36:23,430 --> 02:36:23,890
All

1203
02:36:26,700 --> 02:36:30,300
right. Yes, Chair, there are several appointments

1204
02:36:30,300 --> 02:36:35,440
that need to be made. I therefore move that the Board of Commissioners appoints the following

1205
02:36:35,440 --> 02:36:41,040
individuals to the respective boards or commissions for the terms as set forth below.

1206
02:36:43,600 --> 02:36:47,000
Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee,

1207
02:36:47,920 --> 02:36:50,520
One Reappointment, Kay Costillo,

1208
02:36:51,140 --> 02:36:53,600
and One Resignation, William Lam.

1209
02:36:55,300 --> 02:36:58,620
City of Raleigh Dix Park Commission, One vacancy,

1210
02:36:58,940 --> 02:37:02,900
and One Recommendation Made for Damian Circausta

1211
02:37:02,900 --> 02:37:04,020
to fill the vacancy.

1212
02:37:06,480 --> 02:37:10,480
The Energy Advisory Commission is One Reappointment

1213
02:37:10,480 --> 02:37:11,820
of Jeffrey Lippard,

1214
02:37:11,820 --> 02:37:16,600
And one term completion of Larry Nunnery.

1215
02:37:17,360 --> 02:37:20,620
The juvenile crime prevention council, with two vacancies,

1216
02:37:21,700 --> 02:37:25,020
one with Parks and Rec, Parks and Rec,

1217
02:37:25,360 --> 02:37:28,820
Designee, and one chief of police local, Designee.

1218
02:37:29,500 --> 02:37:34,320
And then one reappointment of Dwayne Holder County Manager, Designee.

1219
02:37:35,820 --> 02:37:39,880
We have the nursing home community advisory committee with six

1220
02:37:39,880 --> 02:37:50,360
three appointments, Anne Schick, Sarah Lynn Raher, Carol Derembacher, Bennett Cotton, Sandra Dutches,

1221
02:37:51,020 --> 02:37:52,540
Anne Marilyn House.

1222
02:37:53,900 --> 02:38:00,260
We have the town of Apex Planning Board with one vacancy for the ETA and one recommendation

1223
02:38:00,260 --> 02:38:04,820
received by the town of Apex for Mark Spernale to fill that seat.

1224
02:38:09,400 --> 02:38:18,100
Mr. Chair, I restate my motion that the Board of Commissioners appoint the following individuals to their respective boards and commissions.

1225
02:38:19,100 --> 02:38:22,800
Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. We have a motion. Is there a second?

1226
02:38:23,860 --> 02:38:25,060
I'll suck at that.

1227
02:38:25,280 --> 02:38:31,440
Okay, we have a motion by a commission. Jackson, a second by a commission. Addison. All in favor, please say aye.

1228
02:38:32,640 --> 02:38:38,720
All those opposed, please say no, not hearing any, the motion passed.

1229
02:38:41,280 --> 02:38:45,560
Then before we move on, Vice Chair Jackson, please let us know which vacancy will be coming

1230
02:38:45,560 --> 02:38:46,480
up for next month.

1231
02:38:47,180 --> 02:38:53,700
Yes, I'm happy to name those and also encourage everyone to please constantly check our website

1232
02:38:53,700 --> 02:38:55,780
for available opportunities.

1233
02:38:56,460 --> 02:39:02,060
What we have coming up in June is the agricultural advisory board with six re-appointments,

1234
02:39:02,060 --> 02:39:07,960
the Capitol area workforce development with nine reappointments and two term completions.

1235
02:39:08,580 --> 02:39:13,480
The City of Raleigh Design Review Commission, one ETJ vacancy,

1236
02:39:14,340 --> 02:39:18,620
the City of Raleigh Planning Commission, one term completion and one recommendation.

1237
02:39:19,980 --> 02:39:24,720
Durham Wake Counties Research and Production Service District Advisory Committee,

1238
02:39:25,420 --> 02:39:31,760
three reappointments, domestic violence fatality review team, three reappointments,

1239
02:39:32,060 --> 02:39:36,300
Fire Commission, one reappointment, and one term completion.

1240
02:39:37,520 --> 02:39:42,940
Industrial facilities and pollution control financing authority, one reappointment.

1241
02:39:43,540 --> 02:39:46,360
The Library Commission, three reappointments.

1242
02:39:47,040 --> 02:39:51,200
Open space and parks advisory committee, a district five vacancy.

1243
02:39:52,280 --> 02:39:56,980
Wake Technical Community College, Board of Trustees, one reappointment,

1244
02:39:56,980 --> 02:39:59,960
and Windale planning and zoning with one reappointment.

1245
02:40:03,660 --> 02:40:13,180
That's it. Thank you, Madam Vice. Now we'll move on to other business commissioners. We didn't

1246
02:40:13,180 --> 02:40:17,960
want to share an update from a adviser, a regional board that you are appointed to.

1247
02:40:20,380 --> 02:40:20,820
Commissar

1248
02:40:20,820 --> 02:40:21,540
Waters.

1249
02:40:24,090 --> 02:40:30,010
I want to salute Wakehead partnership for the recent symposium that was held on Friday

1250
02:40:30,010 --> 02:40:36,970
May 1st, which was an opportunity to uplift great work that is happening in our public schools

1251
02:40:36,970 --> 02:40:44,590
and also want to talk about the great work that they do year round to help ensure that

1252
02:40:44,590 --> 02:40:49,890
educators have classrooms supplies I was able to go out to tools for schools. Recently,

1253
02:40:50,830 --> 02:40:56,890
where North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls was also volunteering and see educators

1254
02:40:56,890 --> 02:41:03,190
from schools all across Wake County at the elementary middle and high school come out for resources

1255
02:41:03,190 --> 02:41:09,270
that are critical to ensure that kids finish the school you're strong and so they are continuing

1256
02:41:09,270 --> 02:41:14,430
to do that work and just put a plug that they do have an Amazon wish list out there that helps

1257
02:41:14,430 --> 02:41:21,540
resource our school so thank you. Thank you in any other board members, commission of

1258
02:41:21,540 --> 02:41:26,600
and then commission addison thank you chair just some public health and behavioral health

1259
02:41:26,600 --> 02:41:31,500
updates we had our quarterly weight county drug overdose prevention coalition meeting

1260
02:41:31,500 --> 02:41:36,600
recently and that was to get updates on the overdose prevention work that's going on in

1261
02:41:36,600 --> 02:41:40,680
the county and that was hosted by our staff and many community partners were there and

1262
02:41:40,680 --> 02:41:44,900
good news is we are moving in the right direction with drug overdoses they are decreasing

1263
02:41:44,900 --> 02:41:48,940
we're still not where we need to be but we are moving in the right direction

1264
02:41:48,940 --> 02:42:00,760
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.

1265
02:42:01,040 --> 02:42:01,720
Thank you.

1266
02:42:01,920 --> 02:42:04,480
Thank you, Commissioner Staldon, Commissioner Addinson.

1267
02:42:05,960 --> 02:42:07,100
Yes, thank you.

1268
02:42:07,640 --> 02:42:15,760
I attended the our convention and visitors bureau board had their monthly meeting at the ribbon cutting for the omni,

1269
02:42:15,760 --> 02:42:26,060
which is very exciting that we are cut the ribbon, it'll be 600 rooms and over 50,000 square feet

1270
02:42:26,060 --> 02:42:33,800
of meeting space, it'll be a great asset for downtown. And at the same time, we cut the ribbon,

1271
02:42:34,380 --> 02:42:44,520
we turned the dirt for the Omni, but we cut the ribbon on the new Plaza in front of the Mark

1272
02:42:44,520 --> 02:42:52,240
ability challenges. There is a driveway where you can be dropped off very close to the door.

1273
02:42:52,400 --> 02:42:57,520
You don't have to park and walk or park in the street like you do now. So that'll make it

1274
02:42:57,520 --> 02:43:03,880
much easier for our mobility challenge residents to attend events there. And it's also very pretty.

1275
02:43:04,180 --> 02:43:12,720
They completely redid it and it doesn't look anything like what we remember. And they actually had

1276
02:43:12,720 --> 02:43:20,400
some students who designed the flowers and the gardening there, and of course it's all native

1277
02:43:20,400 --> 02:43:27,220
plants. And it was really nice to meet the folks from Omni. I think they're going to

1278
02:43:27,220 --> 02:43:33,980
be great partners of ours going forward. We had our monthly live well-wake action team meeting,

1279
02:43:33,980 --> 02:43:46,360
and it was a lot of questions about funding because WakeMed is a big funding partner and what

1280
02:43:46,360 --> 02:43:50,240
will happen to that and they also received some omnipotent.

1281
02:43:50,240 --> 02:43:53,080
I mean, some ARPA money.

1282
02:43:53,580 --> 02:44:00,040
And I went to Phoenix with the Raleigh Chamber for their inner city visit and Phoenix and

1283
02:44:00,040 --> 02:44:01,860
I always learned a lot when I go to those.

1284
02:44:02,580 --> 02:44:04,240
It was very good.

1285
02:44:04,460 --> 02:44:07,280
I visited some of their homelessness facilities.

1286
02:44:08,340 --> 02:44:11,260
And it was good to see how they support.

1287
02:44:12,740 --> 02:44:15,040
Because their five times bigger than us.

1288
02:44:15,520 --> 02:44:19,160
And their homeless population is about 10,000,

1289
02:44:19,980 --> 02:44:22,300
which is in line with five times hours.

1290
02:44:22,500 --> 02:44:24,200
So it was good to see that.

1291
02:44:24,580 --> 02:44:25,100
Thank you.

1292
02:44:25,820 --> 02:44:26,220
Thank you.

1293
02:44:26,500 --> 02:44:27,920
Commissioner Hasn't commissioned Jackson.

1294
02:44:29,080 --> 02:44:38,920
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.

1295
02:44:39,640 --> 02:44:51,560
Okay, regarding the advisory board and regional board, I want to share passage home, just completed their most recent workforce development cohort.

1296
02:44:51,560 --> 02:44:59,960
This was their fourth, and I was able to attend the culminating celebration, and it was just a mix.

1297
02:45:05,120 --> 02:45:19,500
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

1298
02:45:19,500 --> 02:45:31,440
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.

1299
02:45:31,820 --> 02:45:37,000
And so we're just really proud of what the new leadership at Passochrome has been able to do.

1300
02:45:37,760 --> 02:45:47,400
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.

1301
02:45:48,380 --> 02:46:01,940
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.

1302
02:46:02,220 --> 02:46:16,660
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.

1303
02:46:16,660 --> 02:46:22,440
so please reach out to Passage Home. I know I am going to contribute. So thank you and just very

1304
02:46:22,440 --> 02:46:29,660
happy to bring back such good news on behalf of that board. Thank you Madam Vice Commissioner

1305
02:46:29,660 --> 02:46:38,880
Ednis, I believe that you had on the other. Just yet under general items activities,

1306
02:46:39,460 --> 02:46:45,980
the most exciting of which was on Tuesday April 21st, Wake County hosted housing symposium,

1307
02:46:47,060 --> 02:46:51,480
I was delighted to be able to attend that day.

1308
02:46:51,680 --> 02:46:54,620
There were many, many non-profit partners,

1309
02:46:54,860 --> 02:46:58,020
many municipal partners there.

1310
02:46:58,540 --> 02:47:02,280
And we spent the day hearing from a variety of different panels

1311
02:47:02,280 --> 02:47:05,580
of folks who had expertise in different areas

1312
02:47:05,580 --> 02:47:12,420
that were all very insightful and good partnerships

1313
02:47:12,420 --> 02:47:16,880
were melded through the collaboration that took place that day.

1314
02:47:17,080 --> 02:47:22,940
So hats off to our housing and community revitalization director Morgan Mansa and her staff

1315
02:47:22,940 --> 02:47:28,140
who pulled that together, I've heard nothing, but accolades for the event since.

1316
02:47:29,720 --> 02:47:35,680
Also on the 23rd, I participated in the ribbon cutting for the Birch and Branch apartment

1317
02:47:35,680 --> 02:47:43,820
neighborhood in East Raleigh and that's a great place that has now opened that will be providing

1318
02:47:43,820 --> 02:47:50,740
affordable housing. I think for a couple of hundred apartments and the county was a partner

1319
02:47:50,740 --> 02:47:56,580
funder on that project so it's always good to see those things when they finally get built and

1320
02:47:56,580 --> 02:48:05,660
also attended one of my favorite events of the year which is the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the

1321
02:48:05,660 --> 02:48:13,720
our boys and girls clubs in Johnson and White Counties, selects a leader that they put forth

1322
02:48:13,720 --> 02:48:14,440
for the year.

1323
02:48:14,460 --> 02:48:20,200
Many of these folks are getting ready to go to college or their juniors in high school and

1324
02:48:20,200 --> 02:48:26,320
they give speeches and we get to hear from them and they're just so amazing and get

1325
02:48:26,320 --> 02:48:30,040
to share about what are the different boys and girls clubs have made in their lives.

1326
02:48:30,400 --> 02:48:34,300
It's always a heartwarming event and we appreciate our partnership with the boys and girls

1327
02:48:34,300 --> 02:48:42,020
club. On the 25th, I was privileged to participate in an event with a rise collective,

1328
02:48:42,060 --> 02:48:48,160
a rise collective is a nonprofit that does work, helping formally incarcerated women

1329
02:48:48,160 --> 02:48:53,740
very acclimate into the community, providing a lot of different support services and the events.

1330
02:48:53,940 --> 02:49:00,380
The event they had that day was at Dix Park and it was highlighting an art project called

1331
02:49:00,380 --> 02:49:10,020
stitching stories, and it was a compilation of art pieces that originated when 62 women

1332
02:49:10,020 --> 02:49:19,640
together in prison worked on crocheting things that represented their life time experiences,

1333
02:49:19,720 --> 02:49:29,720
and then it's now being re-designed into a traveling mosaic tile art thing.

1334
02:49:29,720 --> 02:49:36,900
So if you see an opportunity to visit and see the stitching stories, revisit, reimagined

1335
02:49:36,900 --> 02:49:41,760
art exhibit, please, you'll find that very inspirational.

1336
02:49:42,560 --> 02:49:48,580
And I also participated on the Raleigh Chamber intercity visit to Phoenix last week and

1337
02:49:48,580 --> 02:49:56,380
always good to hear about what other cities are doing that are growing like we are and always

1338
02:49:56,380 --> 02:49:59,960
good networking with business partners and none.

1339
02:50:00,000 --> 02:50:04,020
Profit partners and all the folks that go alone on that trip. Thank you.

1340
02:50:04,620 --> 02:50:14,000
Thank you, Commissioner Nevin. Commissioner Jackson. Okay, yes, and other business. A couple of exciting things.

1341
02:50:14,740 --> 02:50:22,540
Since the last time we were together, one wants to acknowledge some activity going on in the faith community in Wake County.

1342
02:50:22,540 --> 02:50:30,500
and want to recognize the United Holy Church of America celebrating 140 years getting started

1343
02:50:30,500 --> 02:50:37,060
here in Wake County and having a legacy in history. It was a pleasure to meet members

1344
02:50:37,060 --> 02:50:43,620
of that community. And then the very next day to support you chair mile with the preservation

1345
02:50:43,620 --> 02:50:48,060
ceremony of good hope. I'll let you speak a little more to that. But it was just wonderful

1346
02:50:48,060 --> 02:50:53,940
to be part of both of these longstanding faith communities because we know how important those

1347
02:50:53,940 --> 02:50:58,560
communities are to sustaining the well-being of our community and our county.

1348
02:50:59,640 --> 02:51:05,620
Also want to acknowledge that I've got to hang out with some farmers. You all may not know I live in

1349
02:51:05,620 --> 02:51:12,360
well, it might be a battle. The most rural part of the county, but it was just a joy to be able to

1350
02:51:12,360 --> 02:51:26,160
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.

1351
02:51:27,900 --> 02:51:40,020
So faith community to farms then to the high school was able to cross paths with commissioner stallings at Green Hope High School.

1352
02:51:40,020 --> 02:51:47,700
seniors who are thinking about civic engagement, economics, and their role in it.

1353
02:51:47,840 --> 02:51:52,640
It's just a wonderful opportunity to be there and to hear their thoughts, to provide and

1354
02:51:52,640 --> 02:51:59,180
share experiences that we're having as commissioners and just a wonderful opportunity.

1355
02:52:00,080 --> 02:52:06,320
Last, the trails, triangle trails held a summit last week that was just a great reminder

1356
02:52:06,320 --> 02:52:14,220
of one of the key things that make Wake County so wonderful and that's our open space and

1357
02:52:14,220 --> 02:52:19,660
greens, green cannabies and trails and everything like that and it was just wonderful to meet

1358
02:52:19,660 --> 02:52:27,660
members of that community that have worked long and hard to get to 300 miles of trails in Wake

1359
02:52:27,660 --> 02:52:33,220
County and to be thinking about what trails can do to transform the triangle area more broadly.

1360
02:52:33,220 --> 02:52:39,700
So, that wraps it up in terms of what I'd like to highlight for other business.

1361
02:52:40,060 --> 02:52:40,740
Thank you.

1362
02:52:41,640 --> 02:52:42,320
Thank you.

1363
02:52:42,580 --> 02:52:42,980
Commissioner Stalinis.

1364
02:52:49,940 --> 02:52:52,380
I didn't want to go before you because you hadn't had a chance yet.

1365
02:52:52,900 --> 02:52:57,600
So, just an attestation of so many wonderful things going on in our counties.

1366
02:52:57,840 --> 02:53:01,220
I'll just highlight a couple of additional ones housing.

1367
02:53:01,600 --> 02:53:03,460
We continue to have houses come out of the ground.

1368
02:53:04,220 --> 02:53:06,240
I was, we're still chipping away.

1369
02:53:06,340 --> 02:53:08,500
We're going to keep chipping away at housing needs.

1370
02:53:08,500 --> 02:53:13,100
So I had an opportunity to provide some remarks with the Southeast Raleigh Promise groundbreaking

1371
02:53:13,100 --> 02:53:19,640
on April the 24th and that's going to be 25 mixed-income rental homes across non-properties

1372
02:53:19,640 --> 02:53:20,620
here in Raleigh.

1373
02:53:21,080 --> 02:53:24,120
So it was a wonderful event and glad to be a part of that.

1374
02:53:24,500 --> 02:53:28,900
I'm going to be part of a mental health test force that's just launched in apex called the

1375
02:53:28,900 --> 02:53:31,220
peak resilience and well-being task force.

1376
02:53:31,680 --> 02:53:36,420
So we are peak has to be in the name because apex is considered the peak of good living.

1377
02:53:36,420 --> 02:53:41,440
at peak isn't almost everything in apex. But really looking forward to this, we're launching

1378
02:53:41,440 --> 02:53:47,160
this task force to create awareness and support for people dealing with any kind of stressors

1379
02:53:47,160 --> 02:53:51,540
or mental health challenges from mild to moderate to severe. And in honor of mental health,

1380
02:53:51,720 --> 02:53:55,660
awareness month, which is in May, we will be having our first community event on May to the

1381
02:53:55,660 --> 02:54:06,400
29th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the apex. Senior Center, Nami will be our keynote speaker and we'll have

1382
02:54:06,400 --> 02:54:11,440
to help needs and to also be a number of community resources there available for the public as well.

1383
02:54:11,620 --> 02:54:15,480
So looking forward to that work that will probably go for about one to two years in apex.

1384
02:54:16,160 --> 02:54:22,300
Yes. And Earthfest was in apex on April the 25th was fun to be there.

1385
02:54:23,020 --> 02:54:30,180
And also Ms. Mackie and colleagues from Green Hope always invite us every semester to go and visit with their high schoolers.

1386
02:54:30,260 --> 02:54:35,500
It is such an engaging, wonderful time and I'm always my hope is renewed whenever I'm with our young people.

1387
02:54:35,500 --> 02:54:41,000
It is such a good time and I believe that is it on updates from my end.

1388
02:54:41,300 --> 02:54:41,780
Thank you.

1389
02:54:41,780 --> 02:54:42,400
Thank you.

1390
02:54:42,720 --> 02:54:42,780
Commissioner.

1391
02:54:43,340 --> 02:54:45,200
Commission Warders.

1392
02:54:45,280 --> 02:54:52,880
I want to highlight that May is foster care awareness month and lift up children who are

1393
02:54:52,880 --> 02:54:59,700
in our care and all those who do work to ensure their safety and to ensure stability.

1394
02:55:00,000 --> 02:55:28,800
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.

1395
02:55:28,800 --> 02:55:34,860
It was quite an emotional experience and unfortunate that it is required to get the minimum

1396
02:55:34,860 --> 02:55:39,980
and basic needs that our public schools require but really grateful for all who took their time

1397
02:55:39,980 --> 02:55:42,840
to come out and advocate for our children like my own.

1398
02:55:43,160 --> 02:55:48,420
And particularly was meaningful to see so many signs advocating for funding for special education

1399
02:55:48,420 --> 02:55:50,200
and that is my lived experience.

1400
02:55:50,440 --> 02:55:54,740
So thank you to all educators for the work that you do day in and day out.

1401
02:55:54,740 --> 02:56:00,860
and also appreciate the opportunity to have attended the North Carolina Foundation for public school children.

1402
02:56:01,120 --> 02:56:12,980
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

1403
02:56:12,980 --> 02:56:19,140
when our public school system I was taking a back to learn that some of our school children are often missing a school

1404
02:56:19,140 --> 02:56:24,360
because of health assessments and then also the barriers for things like hearing aids that are addressed

1405
02:56:24,360 --> 02:56:29,040
by the organization, so I really appreciate the work that goes on there, and I appreciate

1406
02:56:29,040 --> 02:56:34,860
also being able to be a part of the ligand legacy committee, along with ligand, a low cheer

1407
02:56:34,860 --> 02:56:41,580
mile to ensure that we have opportunity to weigh in on such a special and unique project that

1408
02:56:41,580 --> 02:56:43,020
is critical to our community.

1409
02:56:43,760 --> 02:56:48,220
And, lastly, I had a chance to attend my first Kentucky Derby event, which was a fundraiser

1410
02:56:48,220 --> 02:56:56,740
for Violet Love, which is supporting women and girls in North Carolina Sierra Leone and Ghana

1411
02:56:56,740 --> 02:57:02,580
and was quite impressed to see our own share of Roe and Roseville Mayor Ronnie Keren.

1412
02:57:03,200 --> 02:57:09,740
They're in support and dressed to the nines and celebrating and supporting needs of vulnerable

1413
02:57:09,740 --> 02:57:10,340
communities.

1414
02:57:10,840 --> 02:57:14,660
And so great things are always happening in a way and glad to be a part of those.

1415
02:57:15,680 --> 02:57:22,200
Thank you, Commissioner Waters, thank commission Jackson, you had another item you wanted to add.

1416
02:57:22,680 --> 02:57:32,020
Yes, a couple of things that I missed adding. One, I want to recognize that this week kicks off small business week

1417
02:57:32,020 --> 02:57:38,140
and we know how vital small businesses are to our community and to our economic vitality.

1418
02:57:38,140 --> 02:57:45,180
So come to Southern Wake County and shop at some of the small businesses there and I'm sure

1419
02:57:45,180 --> 02:57:46,200
you will be delighted.

1420
02:57:46,960 --> 02:57:51,160
I also want to acknowledge that the comment period is open for public libraries.

1421
02:57:51,740 --> 02:57:59,040
I know I've been sharing and posting and encourage many, everybody to weigh in and tell

1422
02:57:59,040 --> 02:58:04,680
us what our public libraries should be and what your needs are and what's working for you.

1423
02:58:04,680 --> 02:58:10,320
And then lastly, in the name of acknowledging milestones and celebrations, one acknowledged

1424
02:58:10,320 --> 02:58:16,400
a North Carolina Black Alliance for celebrating their 20th year, it was a wonderful time

1425
02:58:16,400 --> 02:58:20,620
and they continue to do good work mobilizing in our state.

1426
02:58:21,440 --> 02:58:26,460
So I want to just say acknowledge their milestone as well.

1427
02:58:27,760 --> 02:58:29,280
And that wraps it up for me.

1428
02:58:29,360 --> 02:58:29,760
Thank you.

1429
02:58:29,880 --> 02:58:30,540
Thank you, Commissioner.

1430
02:58:30,540 --> 02:58:32,340
that I can commission add in some?

1431
02:58:33,080 --> 02:58:40,840
Yes, I was just going to mention that Commissioner Waters and Evans and myself were at the North Carolina Foundation for Public School Gala.

1432
02:58:41,500 --> 02:58:50,540
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.

1433
02:58:50,840 --> 02:58:57,460
So we got to meet these lovely young people who are in high school who aspire to be teachers.

1434
02:58:57,460 --> 02:59:01,760
And it's really heartwarming to see those.

1435
02:59:04,160 --> 02:59:04,840
Thank you.

1436
02:59:04,840 --> 02:59:05,760
Commission Thomas.

1437
02:59:06,660 --> 02:59:07,160
Thank you Chairman.

1438
02:59:08,400 --> 02:59:13,240
There are lots of things going on and while I will not update you on all the things I have been at this week.

1439
02:59:13,600 --> 02:59:19,700
We are talking a lot about recognition and so I do want to acknowledge that this week may third through May 9th

1440
02:59:20,240 --> 02:59:27,700
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

1441
02:59:27,700 --> 02:59:32,160
for Team Wake to be recruited and retained.

1442
02:59:32,240 --> 02:59:34,760
I did want to shout out all of the hard work that I work

1443
02:59:34,760 --> 02:59:36,760
clerk and our deputy clerk do.

1444
02:59:37,500 --> 02:59:40,580
They are models for, they both serve with the association

1445
02:59:40,580 --> 02:59:43,380
and they are models for other clerks across the state.

1446
02:59:43,700 --> 02:59:45,600
So thank you both for all of the work you do

1447
02:59:45,600 --> 02:59:47,860
and all of the recognition I want it to make sure

1448
02:59:47,860 --> 02:59:49,620
that we acknowledge and recognize them.

1449
02:59:49,700 --> 02:59:50,260
Thank you, sir.

1450
02:59:55,610 --> 02:59:56,690
Thank you.

1451
02:59:56,990 --> 02:59:58,410
Any other comments?

1452
03:00:00,940 --> 03:00:08,580
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.

1453
03:00:09,280 --> 03:00:17,900
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.

1454
03:00:18,520 --> 03:00:24,260
And some of the hardships that they have experienced. Some of the stores you hear from those kids is just unbelievable.

1455
03:00:24,260 --> 03:00:31,400
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.

1456
03:00:32,220 --> 03:00:34,420
Also, great trip to Phoenix.

1457
03:00:35,000 --> 03:00:37,580
In the time we're able to go on the inner city trip,

1458
03:00:38,040 --> 03:00:42,420
we always learn so many different things that are going on in other parts of the country

1459
03:00:42,420 --> 03:00:46,700
that helps us when we come back home to try to make good sound decision.

1460
03:00:47,700 --> 03:00:50,820
And I know Commissioner Waters did not talk much about it,

1461
03:00:50,820 --> 03:00:55,820
She did a great speech there for the housing out there at Birch.

1462
03:00:56,940 --> 03:01:00,860
I think that would add 180 more units to that.

1463
03:01:01,180 --> 03:01:02,560
I don't know if it was several of us there,

1464
03:01:02,740 --> 03:01:06,040
because the Commissioner Thomas Commissioner Evans and myself was there,

1465
03:01:06,200 --> 03:01:07,420
which is great.

1466
03:01:08,360 --> 03:01:12,820
And of course, on yesterday, I had the pleasure of giving the speech there

1467
03:01:13,620 --> 03:01:18,900
for the historical proclamation there for the VFW 148.

1468
03:01:18,900 --> 03:01:23,460
and also the historical recognition of good hope Baptist Church.

1469
03:01:24,320 --> 03:01:28,760
And I must confess it was a great well-attended event.

1470
03:01:29,200 --> 03:01:31,740
And of course I have my colleague there, Commissioner Jackson.

1471
03:01:32,080 --> 03:01:35,680
She always added a pleasure there and had a chance.

1472
03:01:35,860 --> 03:01:38,420
And for those of you that did not know I was not aware.

1473
03:01:39,020 --> 03:01:40,320
That was my home church.

1474
03:01:41,220 --> 03:01:45,180
And so the church was 162 years.

1475
03:01:45,180 --> 03:02:14,680
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.

1476
03:02:14,680 --> 03:02:17,820
And to be honest, it was just an awesome event yesterday.

1477
03:02:18,400 --> 03:02:20,400
And sure, Willa Roe was there as well.

1478
03:02:20,540 --> 03:02:22,240
Cause he has family on that event as well.

1479
03:02:22,660 --> 03:02:25,460
So it was just a great home coming there for everyone yesterday.

1480
03:02:26,260 --> 03:02:30,620
So I just want to say thank you for all those that was had a part in that.

1481
03:02:30,620 --> 03:02:34,280
And of course, to our calm staff, you guys always do a great speech.

1482
03:02:34,720 --> 03:02:38,440
And now, gosh, I hope I delivered it and a respectful man.

1483
03:02:38,800 --> 03:02:40,800
But you guys, we definitely appreciate what you do.

1484
03:02:40,800 --> 03:02:46,460
that just speaks volume of what team wait does, whether it's in our comms, whether it's in our

1485
03:02:46,460 --> 03:02:52,260
county area, whether it's in our turn as office, we just got a great team in a special hour clerks.

1486
03:02:52,540 --> 03:02:57,600
Because you got seven of us that you all try to keep up with and I know it's like hurting cats at

1487
03:02:57,600 --> 03:03:04,560
time, but we just want to say thank you. Really, really thank you for what you all do to support us as

1488
03:03:04,560 --> 03:03:07,080
what we do throughout the year.

1489
03:03:08,340 --> 03:03:08,500
Okay.

1490
03:03:09,300 --> 03:03:14,380
Now, Mr. ASCQ, is there a need for a closed session today?

1491
03:03:14,740 --> 03:03:16,040
No, Mr. Chair, there is not.

1492
03:03:16,540 --> 03:03:16,860
Let's go.

1493
03:03:19,240 --> 03:03:21,860
I'll take it that was a gli-a-hope there.

1494
03:03:22,180 --> 03:03:22,940
Thank you for everyone.

1495
03:03:25,360 --> 03:03:26,260
Thank you.

1496
03:03:26,580 --> 03:03:27,860
Thank you, Mr. Attorney.

1497
03:03:28,840 --> 03:03:29,240
Yes.

1498
03:03:30,380 --> 03:03:32,300
Yes, David, I'm sorry, Mr. Manager.

1499
03:03:32,980 --> 03:03:38,940
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

1500
03:03:38,940 --> 03:03:43,820
week and all for everything they do to keep this county moving forward. So thank you all.

1501
03:03:49,410 --> 03:03:54,570
Okay, so thank you everyone. That concludes our agenda for today. The voice next

1502
03:03:54,570 --> 03:04:00,950
relevant meeting is scheduled for Monday and May 18 at 2 p.m. Do I have a motion to adjourn?

1503
03:04:00,950 --> 03:04:02,450
I don't want you to adjourn.

1504
03:04:02,610 --> 03:04:03,630
In a second.

1505
03:04:04,690 --> 03:04:05,210
Hi.

1506
03:04:06,130 --> 03:04:06,930
In a second.

1507
03:04:07,690 --> 03:04:08,210
In a second.

1508
03:04:08,890 --> 03:04:09,590
In a second.

1509
03:04:10,470 --> 03:04:10,730
OK.

1510
03:04:11,810 --> 03:04:13,190
It was so many of y'all there.

1511
03:04:13,250 --> 03:04:14,010
Who made the motion?

1512
03:04:14,330 --> 03:04:14,470
Who?

1513
03:04:14,930 --> 03:04:15,790
We've got to hit you.

1514
03:04:15,810 --> 03:04:16,490
You got it.

1515
03:04:17,890 --> 03:04:19,430
All in favor?

1516
03:04:19,730 --> 03:04:20,250
Hi.

1517
03:04:22,210 --> 03:04:23,430
Anyone opposed?

1518
03:04:24,770 --> 03:04:25,950
Not hearing in.

1519
03:04:26,030 --> 03:04:27,370
I just have it.

1520
03:04:28,050 --> 03:04:28,770
Meeting adjourned.