September Pre-Agenda Meeting
September 3, 2024 at 2:58 PM
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Event Recap
Burke County Board of Commissioners Pre-Agenda Meeting Recap – September 3, 2024
On September 3, 2024, the Burke County Board of Commissioners held a pre-agenda meeting to review items slated for discussion at their formal agenda meeting later in September. All five commissioners were present, along with key county staff including the County Attorney, Manager, and Finance Officer. This meeting provided an opportunity for board members to familiarize themselves with upcoming topics before making formal decisions, ensuring a well-informed process for residents.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of Burke County Animal Services. Director Caitlin Sullenmeyer presented a comprehensive overview of the department's progress over the past five years, showcasing remarkable improvements in live release rates for both cats (now 88%) and dogs (87%). The presentation highlighted successful initiatives like coordinated entry programs for families with pets, a thriving foster program, and the implementation of a permanent Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) program for feral cats. The board acknowledged the department’s shift towards proactive measures, focusing on prevention and community engagement rather than solely reacting to animal intakes. A key future goal discussed was achieving a “no-kill” status and establishing a new, expanded animal shelter to support these efforts.
The board also engaged in discussions surrounding two zoning requests that will significantly impact Burke County’s landscape. The first, ZMA 2024-09, proposes rezoning a large 745-acre tract of land on the western end of the county for industrial use. Commissioners raised concerns about potential impacts on surrounding residential areas and scenic views, emphasizing the need for adequate buffering to mitigate these concerns. The second request, ZTA 2024-02, seeks to adjust the future land use map for adjacent parcels to designate them as residential infill. While the Planning Board recommended approval of both requests, no formal vote was taken during this pre-agenda session; these items will be considered at the September 17th meeting.
Beyond zoning, the board approved a consent agenda encompassing several important recognitions and financial matters. This included proclamations recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month, National Recovery Month (addressing substance use disorder), and Fire Prevention Week. The board also approved a budget amendment to support grant funding for various departments, including Public Safety (radio upgrades) and the Animal Services Foundation. A partnership with Hickory for airplane hangar construction at the regional airport was also approved, a collaboration County Manager Manning noted has positively impacted the county’s tax base.
Finally, Katie Vardell, Opioid Settlement Coordinator, presented a sobering annual impact report detailing the county’s efforts to combat opioid use disorder. While harm reduction strategies like Naloxone distribution are showing promising results and preventing emergency room visits after overdoses, the county is grappling with a concerning rise in overdose fatalities (40 confirmed in 2023). The report highlighted ongoing initiatives like the Overdose Fatality Review Team and peer support programs, emphasizing the need to expand treatment options and address workforce shortages within the behavioral health field.
What’s Next? The Board of Commissioners will formally consider all discussed items, including the zoning requests and budget amendments, at their regular meeting on September 17th. Residents are encouraged to attend or review the agenda and minutes for further details. The Animal Services Department will continue its proactive initiatives, striving towards a “no-kill” status and community resource center. The county remains committed to addressing the opioid crisis through expanded treatment options and ongoing support programs, reflecting a dedication to improving the well-being of all Burke County residents. Commissioner Carswell’s suggestion regarding a name that reflects the purpose and connection to Burke County for the new animal shelter will likely be considered during the formal agenda meeting.