On the agenda: Durham Board of County Commissioners on 2026-08-24 7:00 PM - Regular Session - Aug 24, 2026 — Data Center (Aug 24)

Durham County

200 E. Main Street
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-0025

Meeting Agenda
Board of County Commissioners
Monday, August 24, 2026

7:00 PM

Commissioners' Chambers

Regular Session

“Public Charge”
The Board of Commissioners asks its members and residents to conduct themselves in
a respectful, courteous manner, both with the Board and fellow residents. At any time,
should any member of the Board or any resident fail to observe this public charge, the
Chair will ask the offending person to leave the meeting until that individual regains
personal control. Should decorum fail to be restored, the Chair will recess the meeting
until such time that a genuine commitment to the public charge is observed.
"Land Acknowledgment"
As we convene for the Durham County Commissioners meeting, it's crucial to
recognize the painful truth of history. We stand on the stolen ancestral lands of the
Catawba, Eno, Occaneechi, Shakori, and Tuscarora peoples, whose deep connection to
this land predates our arrival. We acknowledge with humility the unjust displacement
and violence that occurred, leading to the dispossession of indigenous peoples from
their homelands. Their resilience in the face of such adversity is a testament to their
strength and spirit.
May we humbly honor the ancestors and elders of these nations, both past and present,
by committing ourselves to fostering understanding, healing, and justice for all who
inhabit this land. Let us walk forward together with open hearts, acknowledging the
past and embracing a future guided by compassion, respect, and unity.
7:00 pm Regular Session

1. Opening of Regular Session - Pledge of Allegiance (5 min)
2. Agenda Adjustments (5 min)
3. Announcements (5 min)
26-0442
Agenda Text:

Durham County

Announcements (5min)

1. Get Your Student Caught Up on Their Vaccines - Students have 30 days
Page 1

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

from the first day of school to get caught up on all required vaccines. The
Durham County Department of Public Health has all required vaccines
available in their immunization clinic, by appointment or by walk-ins as
schedule permits. Children who are underinsured or have no insurance can be
vaccinated at no cost. For more information or to schedule an appointment,
call the immunization clinic at 919-560-7608, or learn more on their website
at www.dcopublichealth.org/immunization
<http://www.dcopublichealth.org/immunization>.
2. Cooperative Extension Seeks Applicants for Extension Master Food
Volunteer Program - Love cooking and giving back to your community?
Durham Cooperative Extension is looking for residents to join the Extension
Master Food Volunteer (EMFV) Program. Interested residents are invited to
join an upcoming information session to learn how they can turn their skills
and passion into meaningful support for families across Durham. EMFVs
support and amplify Cooperative Extension’s nutrition and cooking programs
and can lead their own cooking demos in the community. Applications for the
new cohort open later this summer, and anyone interested must attend an
information session. Learn more about the program and register for an
information session here:
<https://dconc.gov/DurhamCo-News/Cooperative-Extension-Seeks-Applica
nts-for-Extension-Master-Food-Volunteer-Program.htm>.
3. Real Talk! Community Conversation about Health on Wednesday,
August 26 - Join Durham County Library and Duke Cancer Institute for Real
Talk! Community Conversation About Health, a community-centered
dialogue about health and wellness for adults at Stanford L. Warren Branch
Library (1201 Fayetteville St) from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August
26. This open conversation brings together community members and health
professionals to explore topics such as cancer prevention, clinical research,
screening opportunities, and other health questions that matter to you. Bring
your curiosity, questions, and experiences, and connect with others in a
welcoming, informal setting.
4. Durham County Transportation Staff want your feedback! - The Public
Comment Period for the Q1 Amendments to the Fiscal Year 2027 Durham
Transit Work Program is open now until Thursday, August 27. For additional
information on the proposed amendments, please visit the Transportation
Department’s website: <https://bit.ly/DCoQ1Transit27>. To submit a public
comment, please email [email protected]
<mailto:[email protected]>.
5. County to Observe Labor Day Holiday - Most Durham County
Durham County

Page 2

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Government offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026, in
observance of the Labor Day holiday. Offices will reopen with normal
operating hours on Tuesday, September 8. For details on how the holiday
may affect specific County services, please visit www.dconc.gov
<http://www.dconc.gov>.
6. Declaration of Independence: Rare Prints on Display - Durham
County Library invites you to view rare 19th‑century prints of the Declaration
of Independence at Durham County Main Library from September 8-20,
2026. As part of We the People: A Duke & Durham Initiative, Durham
County Main Library and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University will
present three historic copies of the Declaration of Independence, on loan
from the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection. This exhibition offers a
rare opportunity to explore how the nation’s founding document was visually
rendered and circulated in early American history. For more information
a b o u t
t h e
e x h i b i t ,
v i s i t :
<https://durhamcountylibrary.libcal.com/event/17394114>.

4. Minutes (5 min)
26-0447
Agenda Text:

Minutes (5min)

The Board is requested to approve the August 10, 2026, Regular Session Meeting
minutes.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Strategic Plan Goal - High
Performing Organization
Resource Persons: Monica W. Wallace, Clerk to the Board
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that
the Board approve the August 10, 2026, Regular Session Meeting minutes.

Attachments:

Regular Session - August 10, 2026

5. Ceremonial Items (15 min)
26-0416

Recognizing the Durham Library Foundation in Acknowledgement of
Their FY2027 Gift of $248,317.31 in Support of Durham County
Library Programs (10min)

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to recognize and celebrate the Durham Library Foundation’s
Fiscal Year 2027 gift of $248,317.31 in support of Durham County Library
programs to be expended by June 30, 2027. Founded as a 501(c)(3) after 2000, the
Durham Library Foundation’s mission is to develop and encourage the long-term
financial health and growth of Durham County Library through giving, endowment,
and capital contributions.

Durham County

Page 3

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Alignment with Strategic Plan: This recognition supports strategic plan objective
RL 3, Help County department celebrate achievements and success stories,
particularly RL 3b, which encourages County employees to market Durham County
as an equitable, thriving, and inclusive community for all residents and businesses. It
also aligns with strategic plan objective HI3, Expand and provide services that
support residents across their entire lifespan. This recognition also meets many of
Durham County’s Empowered Community objectives.
Resource Persons: Kara Nunnally - Executive Director, Durham
Foundation | Dana Conners - Library Director, Durham County Library

Library

County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board recognize the Durham Library Foundation’s Fiscal Year 2027 gift of
$248,317.31.
26-0417
Agenda Text:

Proclamation - Supportive Housing Week (5min)

The Board is requested to proclaim August 24 - August 26, 2026, as Supportive
Housing Week in Durham County.
Housing for New Hope (HNH) is a Durham-based nonprofit that aims to prevent and
end homelessness with one valuable person at a time. Organizationally, HNH creates
and continually improves innovative, data-informed programs shaped by client
feedback and responsive to evolving community needs. We encourage, motivate, and
enable individuals and families experiencing homelessness to take their next best step
toward long-term, stable housing with an array of supportive housing and affordable
housing options. We connect our most vulnerable neighbors to housing and hope.
This summer, HNH hopes to link arms with the Corporation for Supportive Housing
(CSH), a national nonprofit coordinating promotive efforts towards supportive
housing. From August 24th to 28th, CSH is leading a nationwide initiative to show
local lawmakers how supportive housing works in their communities. Through this
proclamation, the city of Durham can join these forces by demonstrating Durham
County supports its residents-housed and unhoused!
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Strategic Plan Goal - Healthy
and Inclusive Community
Resource Persons: Russell Pierce, Executive Director - Housing for New Hope
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board proclaim August 24 - August 26, 2026, as Supportive Housing Week in
Durham County.

Attachments:

Proclamation - Housing for New Hope - 24Aug26

6. Consent Agenda (15 min)
26-0388
Durham County

Approval

of

Contract

with
Page 4

Laerdal

Medical

Corporation

for

the

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Purchase of SimMan Essential Dark Simulator and Accessories not
to exceed the amount of $92,130.13
Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve a contract with Laerdal Medical Corporation in
the amount not to exceed $92,130.13 for the purchase of one (1) SimMan Essential
Dark simulator, associated accessories, installation, training, and extended warranty
services and to authorize the County Manager to sign and execute all contract
documents related to the purchase.
Durham County OES-EMS Division is committed to maintaining the highest standards
in emergency medical training and patient care. As part of its ongoing equipment
replacement cycle, the EMS Division has evaluated simulation platforms to ensure
alignment with current clinical training standards and interoperability with systemwide
workflows. After a formal market review, the SimMan Essential Dark simulator from
Laerdal Medical Corporation is recommended for purchase. This simulator offers
comprehensive features, including LLEAP License, SpO2 Probe, keyboard and
mouse, consumables, clothing, and a five year extended manufacturer’s warranty. The
package also includes a laptop for simulation software, a mobile router for
simultaneous simulator operation, virtual orientation training, and professional on-site
installation by Laerdal Service Engineers.
The simulation equipment will be purchased utilizing existing funding within the EMS
Equipment Replacement PAYGO project.
G.S. 143-129(e) allows local governments to be exempted from the competitive
bidding requirements and purchase furnishings/equipment through group purchasing
programs
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Focus Area 3:
Safe and Resilient Community Initiative 2a: Innovate and strengthen emergency
response and prevention systems
Resource Persons: Mark Lockhart, NRP, Director, Office of Emergency Services,
and Marc Ferguson, Business Operations Officer, Office of Emergency Services.
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that
the BOCC approve the contract with Laerdal Medical Corporation in the amount not
to exceed $92,130.13 for the purchase of one (1) SimMan Essential Dark Simulator,
associated accessories, installation, training, and extended warranty services and to
authorize the County Manager to sign and execute all contract documents related to
the purchase.

Attachments:

AAF Supplemental Document - Contract Approval Template -Laerdal Manikin
Quote
Price sheet
Laerdal Contract 102325

Durham County

Page 5

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

26-0411

Approval
of
Budget
Ordinance
Amendment
No.
27BCC011
Appropriating $150,000 in General Fund Fund Balance for a Library
Master Facilities Plan

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC011
appropriating $150,000 in General Fund Fund Balance for a Library Master Facilities
Plan.
Durham County Engineering recommends that the Library conduct a study of facility
needs which would then be incorporated into the County’s Master Facilities Plan.
Conducting a separate study gives the Library an opportunity to focus on the direction
of the library system based on population growth, current trends and the vision for
service delivery. Engineering estimates that hiring a consultant to conduct the study
would cost $150,000.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This project addresses SI1 - Sustainable
Infrastructure 1: Plan for long-term use of County land, facilities, and equipment. It
helps address initiatives 1a, 1 b and 1c by assessing our current libraries, and creating
a plan for library buildings and spaces moving forward.
Resource Persons: Dana Conners, Library Director; Sandra Lovely, Assistant
Library Director Planning and Facilities.
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approves Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC011 Appropriating
$150,000 in General Fund Fund Balance for a Library Master Facilities Plan.

Attachments:

AAF FMP 7-2026 Supplemental Information
BCC-11 Legal Form

26-0421
Agenda Text:

Approval of Property Tax Releases and Refunds for June 2026

The Board is requested to approve the Releases & Refunds for June 2026, which
includes adjustments to the current year’s levy as well as prior years’ levies. Due to
property valuation adjustments for over assessments, listing discrepancies, duplicate
listings, and clerical errors, etc. the attached reports detail monthly releases and
refunds for June 2026.
This month’s report includes releases
and
refunds for tax year 2025 totaling $
759,501.85. Prior tax years’ (2015-2024) releases and refunds are in the amount of
$ 73,640.27. Prior tax years’ releases and refunds are in the amount of $ 73,640.27.
June 2026 releases and refunds total $ 833,142.12.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Financial Stewardship. This request is to ensure the county complies with
financial requirements mandated by North Carolina General Statutes which ensures
we are accountable to our citizens.

Durham County

Page 6

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Resource Persons: Keyar Doyle, Tax Administrator
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve the property tax release and refund report for June 2026 as presented
and authorize the Tax Assessor to adjust the tax records as outlined by the report.
Attachments:

Releases & Refunds Backup Detail-June 2026-Aug 24, 2026
Backup-Bill Release Report_June 2026-Aug 24, 2026
Backup-Pending Refund Report_June 2025-Aug 24, 2026
NCVTS_May_Refunds

26-0427

Approve and Authorize the Manager to Accept the Conveyance of
Easements for the Whispering Pines Stream Restoration Project and
Execute All Documents to Effectuate These Conveyances Upon Final
Approval by the County Attorney’s Office.

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve and authorize the Manager to accept the
conveyance of easements for the Whispering Pines Stream Restoration Project and
execute all documents to effectuate these conveyances upon final approval by the
County Attorney’s Office.
The first set of easement areas are Permanent Drainage Easements and Temporary
Construction Easements being granted to the County from Whispering Pines Mobile
Park, Inc. across two parcels: REID 158715 and 162519, totaling 2.898 acres for
the Permanent Easement Areas. These easements allow for construction, monitoring
and future maintenance of improved stream infrastructure that comply with the
nitrogen and phosphorous reductions required by the Falls Lake Nutrient
Management Rules, and will dramatically reduce flood risk in this residential
neighborhood. Compensation to the property owner from the County is $76,150.00.
Please see the attached Exhibits and Legal Descriptions for these REID numbers for
more information.
The second set of easement areas are Permanent Drainage Easements and
Temporary Construction Easements being granted to the County from the City of
Durham on REID #158910 containing a total Permanent Easement Area of 6,761
square feet (.155 acres). These easements convey from the City at no cost, and will
be used primarily during construction, and may require minor maintenance of plantings
once the project is completed.
Total cost for the Whispering Pines Stream Restoration Project is approximately $2.1
million. County Stormwater has received over $1.7 million in grant funding, covering
more than 80% of the total cost.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This stream restoration project supports
Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment Planning for long-term use of County land,

Durham County

Page 7

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

facilities, and equipment.
Resource Persons: Christy Raulli, Senior Real Estate Officer; Ryan D. Eaves P.E.,
Stormwater and Erosion Control Division Manager; Jay Gibson, P.E., Director,
Engineering and Environmental Services; Maurice Jones, Deputy County Manager;
Hyrum Hemmingway, Assistant County Attorney
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve and authorize the Manager to accept the conveyance of easements
for the Whispering Pines Stream Restoration Project and execute all documents to
effectuate these conveyances upon final approval by the County Attorney’s Office.
Attachments:

Whispering Pines Mobile Park - DRAFT Deed
Exhibit REID_158715
Exhibit_REID_162519
REID 158715_Legal Description
REID 162519_Legal Description
City Easement - DRAFT Deed
City Easement Exhibit B - Permitted and Prohibited Uses
Exhibit REID 158910 - City Easement
REID 158910 - Legal Description - City Easement

26-0431
Agenda Text:

Durham County NCACC Goals for 2027 Legislative Session

The Board is requested to approve a list of statewide items for the 2027 NCACC
Legislative Goals process. Each biennium counties are encouraged to submit
proposed legislative items to inform the North Carolina Association of County
Commissioners’ structured process for developing key advocacy priorities for the
upcoming General Assembly term.
Legislative goal proposals may include changes to statutes or requests for funding and
should have a 100-county impact. The attached list consists of goals from
departments along with several items from Commissioners that were requested during
the August 3rd initial discussion of this item.
Goals must be submitted by: Adopted resolutions from full boards; A letter from
board chairs on behalf of the full boards; or A letter from the resident of an affiliate
and/or related county organization. A letter from Chair Lee will be drafted and shared
to meet the requirements. The submission deadline is Thursday, August 27.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Strategic Plan Goal 1:
Regional Leadership
Resource Persons: Deborah Craig-Ray, Chief Communications Officer
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that
the Board approve the list of proposed statewide legislative items so that Durham

Durham County

Page 8

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

County staff may enter the goals into the NCACC portal by the August 27th deadline
as required.
Attachments:

BOCC NCACC LX items 24 agenda FINAL

26-0433

Budget
Ordinance
Amendment
No.
27BCC014 Public
Health
to
Recognize $233,176 from NC DHHS Division of Public Health’s Local
and Community Support Section for Local Workforce Development

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC014
Public Health to Recognize $233,176 from NC DHHS Division of Public Health’s
Local and Community Support Section for Local Workforce Development
Through efforts to recruit and retain highly qualified staff, these funds will support the
foundational service areas and core functions of Durham County Public Health. Core
functions include: (1) preventing the spread of communicable disease, (2) ensuring
food, air, and water quality are safe, (3) supporting maternal and child health, (4)
improving access and linkages to clinical care services, and (5) preventing chronic
disease and injury. The additional $233,176 for local workforce development will
bring the total funds allocated for these projects to $640,608 as $407,432 is already
included in the FY 26-27 approved budget.
Please note that this amendment requires no additional County funds.
The Board of Health has approved this amendment.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Healthy Community.
Resource Persons: Dr. Rodney Jenkins, DrPH, MHA, Public Health Director
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC014 Public Health to
Recognize $233,176 from NC DHHS Division of Public Health’s Local and
Community Support Section for Local Workforce Development

Attachments:

AAF AA 117 Workforce Development
117 FY27 Durham - signed
AAF Supplemental AA 117 Workforce Development
AAF-14 Legal Form

26-0434

Budget
Ordinance
Amendment
No.27BCC015 Public
Health
to
Recognize $15,000 from the North Carolina Department of Public
Health for the Improving Community Outcomes for Maternal and
Child Health Grant for Family Matters Durham

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No.27BCC015
Public Health to Recognize $15,000 from the North Carolina Department of Public
Health for the Improving Community Outcomes for Maternal and Child Health Grant

Durham County

Page 9

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

for Family Matters Durham
This funding represents an increase in NCDHHS funding for Improving Community
Outcomes for Maternal and Child Health initiative. The Department of Public Health’s
Family Matters Durham (FMD) program works to improve birth outcomes by
providing preconception and interconception health prior to pregnancy during
reproductive years, reduce infant mortality by promoting and supporting human milk
feeding for all families, and improve the overall health status of children ages 0-5. The
$15,000 of additional funding will bring the total funds allocated to the Improving
Community Outcomes for Maternal and Child Health grant to $465,000 for the
26-27 fiscal year.
The Board of Health has approved this amendment.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Healthy and Inclusive Community.
Resource Persons: Rodney Jenkins, DrPH, MHA, Public Health Director
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No.27BCC015 Public Health to
Recognize $15,000 from the North Carolina Department of Public Health for the
Improving Community Outcomes for Maternal and Child Health Grant for Family
Matters Durham
Attachments:

164 FY27 Durham - signed
AAF AA 164 ICO4MCH
AAF Supplemental AA 164 ICO4MCH
AAF-15 Legal Form

26-0435

Budget
Ordinance
Amendment
No.27BCC016 Public
Health
to
recognize $56,250 from the North Carolina Department of Public
Health, Chronic Disease and Injury, Tobacco Prevention and Control
Branch to support evidence-based tobacco/nicotine prevention and
cessation training in Region 5

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No.27BCC016
Public Health to recognize $56,250 from the North Carolina Department of Public
Health, Chronic Disease and Injury, Tobacco Prevention and Control Branch to
support evidence-based tobacco/nicotine prevention and cessation training in Region
5
The agreement addendum provides additional funding to Local Health Departments to
support training and training support for school personnel and stakeholders who work
with youth within Region 5. In North Carolina, there is inconsistent implementation of
evidence-based tobacco/nicotine prevention and cessation programs, resulting in
uneven access, quality, and effectiveness in reducing the prevalence of vaping among

Durham County

Page 10

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

youth. The additional funding will increase capacity in Region 5 to implement
consistent programming for youth and provide support for adult influencers of youth
to deliver evidence-based interventions. The $56,250 of additional funding will bring
the total funds allocated to the tobacco prevention and control grant to $158,522 for
the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
The Board of Health has approved this amendment.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Health and Well-being for All.
Resource Persons: Rodney Jenkins, DrPH, MHA, Public Health Director
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that
the Board approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No.27BCC016 Public Health to
recognize $56,250 from the North Carolina Department of Public Health, Chronic
Disease and Injury, Tobacco Prevention and Control Branch to support
evidence-based tobacco/nicotine prevention and cessation training in Region 5
Attachments:

451-1 FY27 Durham - signed
AAF AA 451 Tobacco Prevention
AAF Supplemental Document - Tobacco Prevention AA451
AAF-16 Legal Form

26-0436

Approve Submission of a Letter to N.C. Department of Health &
Human Services Outlining the Aggregate Percentage Change of
1.42% to Public Health’s Chargemaster Rate

Agenda Text:

The Board is requested to approve submission of a letter to N.C. Department of
Health & Human Services outlining the aggregate percentage change of 1.42% to
Public Health’s chargemaster rate.
For Managed Care Medicaid claim activity, Public Health receives Quarterly
Separated Directed Payments. The Separate Directed Payment calculation is based
on Public Health’s specific Ratio of Costs to Charges (RCC) as determined from the
Base Year (State Fiscal Year 2019) Medicaid cost report and trended forward
annually for inflation. The rate is annually adjusted if the aggregate price changes
(Chargemaster change) are more or less than the allowed inflationary increase. To
that end, Public Health attests to periodic chargemaster changes. The letter attached
reflects Public Health’s aggregate chargemaster changes to applicable codes between
July 1, 2025 and July 1, 2026, which is 1.42%. Public Health reports this percentage
to N.C. Department of Health & Human Services.
The Board of Health has approved this amendment.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Healthy and Inclusive Community.

Durham County

Page 11

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Resource Persons: Dr. Rodney Jenkins, DrPH, MHA, Public Health Director
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve submission of a letter to N.C. Department of Health & Human
Services outlining the aggregate percentage change of 1.42% to Public Health’s
chargemaster rate.
Attachments:

AAF DPH Chargemaster Rate Changes - FY27
Calculation of Aggregate Percentage Increase SFY 2026
LHD Chargemaster Cover Letter_For SFY2027.docx

26-0441
Agenda Text:

Approval of Property Tax Releases and Refunds for July 2026

The Board is requested to approve the Releases & Refunds for July 2026, which
includes adjustments to the current year’s levy as well as prior years’ levies. Due to
property valuation adjustments for over assessments, listing discrepancies, duplicate
listings, and clerical errors, etc. the attached reports detail monthly releases and
refunds for June 2026.
This month’s report includes releases
and
refunds for tax year 2026 totaling $
16,976.08. Prior tax years’ (2015-2025) releases and refunds are in the amount of $
1,103,272.36. July 2026 releases and refunds total $ 1,120,248.44.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County Strategic
Goal: Financial Stewardship. This request is to ensure the county complies with
financial requirements mandated by North Carolina General Statutes which ensures
we are accountable to our citizens.
Resource Persons: Keyar Doyle, Tax Administrator
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board approve the property tax release and refund report for July 2026, as presented
and authorize the Tax Assessor to adjust the tax records as outlined by the report.

Attachments:

Releases & Refunds Backup Detail-July 2026-Aug 24, 2026
Backup-Bill Release Report_July 2026-Aug 24, 2026
Backup-Pending Refund Report_July 2026-Aug 24, 2026
NCVTS_June_Refunds

26-0444
Agenda Text:

Durham County

Continuum of Care ILA Renewal

The proposed resolution approves an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) between Durham
County and the City of Durham that establishes a new governance structure for the
NC 502 Continuum of Care (Durham’s CoC). The ILA reconstitutes HSAC as the
Continuum of Care Governing Board, a thirteen-member body charged with
HEARTH Act oversight and CoC compliance. These changes implement key
governance recommendations of the Durham Strategic Framework to Prevent and
End Homelessness, clarifying roles, right-sizing membership, and strengthening
Page 12

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

accountability so that the City and County can move from planning into
implementation.
The new ILA was developed with input from HSAC members and community
partners to replace the 2012 agreement.
Key changes from the 2012 agreement include:

•

•

•

•

•

Reconstituting HSAC as the Continuum of Care Governing Board.
The renamed body reflects HUD’s federally defined CoC governance role
under the HEARTH Act and signals a new phase of focused, accountable
governance aligned with the Strategic Framework.
A right-sized, sector-based thirteen-member voting body. The new
Board includes designated seats for Durham County, the City of Durham, the
Durham Housing Authority, Durham Public Schools, a person with lived
experience of homelessness, the business sector, a homelessness service
provider, a public safety agency, and five at-large members.
Clearer roles and responsibilities for the City, County, and CoC
Governing Board. The agreement enumerates distinct responsibilities,
including the City’s duties as Lead Agency and Collaborative Applicant, the
County’s role in coordinating prevention resources and DSS programs, and
the Board’s responsibilities for HEARTH Act compliance, HMIS oversight,
the annual Point in Time Count, and review and approval of the CoC
Consolidated Application.
Structured terms and a new selection process. Members serve
three-year terms with a maximum of two consecutive terms. Non-institutional
seats are filled through an open application and voting process administered
by the City Clerk’s Office and the CoC, ensuring sector representation rather
than organizational interests.
Updated standards for ethics, attendance, education, and conflicts of
interest. The agreement aligns with the City and County Codes of Ethics, 24
C.F.R. § 578.95, the Open Meetings Law, and HUD Governance Charter
requirements, including a mandatory annual orientation for all Board
members.

Alignment with Strategic Plan: Healthy and Inclusive Community: Supporting
equitable and inclusive health and well-being for all.
Resource Persons: Maurice Jones, Deputy County Manager.
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends the
Board approve the resolution authorizing the County Manager to execute the City of
Durham and Durham County Interlocal Agreement Regarding the Continuum of Care
and the Continuum of Care Governing Board.

Durham County

Page 13

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners
Attachments:

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Continuum of Care ILA Resolution August 2026 Final
Continuum of Care Supplemental Memorandum Final 8-24-26

7. Public Hearings (90 min)
26-0437

Agenda Text:

Public Hearing - To Consider the Adoption of a Proposed Moratorium
on the Acceptance and Processing of Applications for New or
Expanded Data Centers, with potential exemptions, with Durham
County (90min)

The Board of County Commissioners will be holding a public hearing considering the
adoption of a moratorium on the acceptance and processing of applications for new
or expanded data centers in Durham County. Large-scale data centers, data
processing facilities, cryptocurrency mining operations, and similar uses can require
significant electricity and water resources and may have impacts on infrastructure, the
environment, and surrounding communities. As data centers have expanded across
the state and nation, some jurisdictions have enacted temporary moratoria on new or
expanded facilities.
Durham County’s existing regulations were not developed with these specific types of
high-impact uses in mind. The County needs time to develop appropriate,
comprehensive standards to ensure that any future development, and expansion of
any such facilities, is consistent with the County's long-term land use plan and protects
the public’s health and interests. The table of permitted uses in the current Unified
Development Ordinance does not define “data centers,” “data processing facilities,”
“cryptocurrency mining operations,” or any other uses associated with data
processing facilities.
Additionally, the Durham Code of Ordinances does not consider the impact of the
aforementioned uses on existing County infrastructure. Some data centers are already
located in Durham, but the impact of their continued development and expansion is
not yet regulated. A temporary moratorium on accepting and processing new
applications for such facilities is a reasonable and necessary measure to allow County
staff and the Planning & Development Department sufficient time to study the issues,
engage with stakeholders, draft appropriate amendments to the Unified Development
Ordinance, consider appropriate provisions for the future LDC, and to allow the
County to adopt any needed amendments to the Durham Code of Ordinances to
address utility extension for these high-impact uses.
Given the potential long-term implications of these uses, staff recommend a temporary
moratorium to allow time to evaluate potential impacts and develop appropriate
zoning standards and mitigation measures. During this period, Planning staff will also
review regulatory approaches used by other jurisdictions in North Carolina and
across the United States.

Durham County

Page 14

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

Staff recommend that the Board of County Commissioners consider adopting a
temporary nine-month moratorium on hyperscale data centers, including, but not
limited to, data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining
operations. The proposed nine-month timeline aligns with the City of Durham’s
existing moratorium, allowing both jurisdictions to evaluate and develop regulatory
approaches on a coordinated schedule.
The moratorium would:
·
Remain in effect until May 2027;
·

Allow staff to evaluate existing regulations and identify potential amendments;

·

Provide an opportunity to assess infrastructure and community impacts
associated with hyperscale data centers, data processing facilities,
cryptocurrency mining operations, and other uses associated with data
processing facilities; and

·

Allow the governing body to consider whether additional standards,
regulations, or review procedures are necessary.

EXEMPTIONS
There has been concern that an absolute ban on applications would unduly stifle the
growth of companies seeking construction or expansion of smaller data centers,
especially in and around the Research Triangle Park and the Treyburn Industrial Park.
In response, staff is proposing limiting the moratorium to projects that exceed
100,000 square feet. The goal would be to allow smaller data centers to move
forward with the development process, thus reducing the negative impact on the
companies that are proposing to construct or rehab “enterprise” or “edge” centers
during the moratorium.
Initially, staff considered exempting data centers based on the amount of MegaWatts
used in a center. However, as the County does not have the statutory authority to
regulate electricity usage and does not have access to such information, it would be
very difficult for the County to apply and enforce any such exemption. Staff propose,
instead, to use a center’s square footage as a way to determine whether centers may
or may not be allowable during the moratorium. A maximum square footage of
100,000 would significantly reduce the odds of a hyperscale data center being
proposed for development for the duration of the nine-month moratorium, while
allowing for the potential projects, those that will have minimal impact on public
infrastructure, to move forward.
Alignment with Strategic
Infrastructure Environment

Plan:

Empowered

Community

and

Sustainable

Resource Persons: Claudia Hager, County Manager; Larissa Williamson, County
Attorney; Maurice Jones, Deputy County Manager; Sara Young, Director of Planning
and Development.
Durham County

Page 15

Printed on 8/24/2026

Board of County Commissioners

Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026

County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board hold a public hearing on the Data Center Moratorium and if prepared, vote to
approve the recommended ordinance change.
Attachments:

Data Center Moratorium Ordinance 8-24-26
Data Center Moratorium Supplemental Memo Final 8-24-26

8. Board and Commission Appointments (10 min)
26-0445
Agenda Text:

Board and Commission Appointments (10min)

Monica Wallace, Clerk to the Board, will distribute ballots to the Board to make
appointments to the following boards:
§
§

Durham-Wake Counties Research and
Committee
Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee

Production

Service

District

Advisory

The Board of Commissioners recognizes the need to have a representative sample of
the citizens of Durham County serve on boards, commissions, committees, and
authorities. No citizen may serve more than four consecutive terms for 2-year term
boards; three consecutive terms for 3-year term boards; two consecutive terms for
4-year term boards; and one consecutive term for 5 and 6-year term boards in any
one position, unless otherwise stated by statute; or there are no other applicants who
meet the eligibility requirements. The Equalization and Review Board shall be exempt
from these term limits.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with focus area: High Performing
Organization.
Resource Persons: Monica Wallace, Clerk to the Board
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the
Board of County Commissioners vote to appoint members to the aforementioned
Boards and Commissions.
Attachments:

B&C Appt Memo - 8.24.2026

9. Items Pulled from the Consent Agenda (20 min)
10. Adjournment

Durham County

Page 16

Printed on 8/24/2026