On the agenda: Orange County meeting — data center (Oct 13)
⚠ Agenda Watch Orange County, North Carolina · Tuesday, October 13, 2026 — in 3 days
About this record
The published agenda for this October 13 meeting contains: "data center". This is the public record BEFORE the vote — read the document, then show up. Public comment is where cancellations start.
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.
The agenda, word for word
Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived October 8, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
JOINT MEETING WITH THE ORANGE COUNTY CHIEFS ASSOCIATION
AND BOCC WORK SESSION
AGENDA
BOCC Joint Meeting with Chiefs Association, and BOCC Work Session
October 13, 2026
Meeting – 7:00 p.m.
Donna S. Baker Meeting Room
Whitted Facility
300 West Tryon Street
Hillsborough, NC 27278
(Please note that the times listed below are only estimates.)
(7:00 – 7:10)
Welcome and Introductions – BOCC Chair Jean Hamilton
(7:10 – 8:00)
1.
Presentation from Orange County Chiefs Association
• Length of Service Awards
• Departmental Updates
• Public Safety Health and Wellness
(8:00 – 8:25)
2.
Public Safety Radio System Improvements Overview
(8:25 – 8:30)
BRIEF RECESS/Transition to Work Session
(8:30 – 8:55)
3.
Discussion on Oversight Options for the Implementation of Tax
Assessment Reforms
(8:55 – 9:20)
4.
Discussion on Orange County Board of County Commissioners
Advisory Board Policy – Attendance Requirements
(9:20 – 9:40)
5
Discussion on Appointment Procedures for Quasi-Judicial Boards
(9:40 – 9:45)
6.
Human Relations Commission – Appointments Discussion
(9:45 – 9:50)
7.
Animal Services Advisory Board – Appointment Discussion
(9:50 – 9:55)
8.
Commission for the Environment – Appointments Discussion
(9:55 – 10:00)
9.
Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board –
Appointments Discussion
This meeting is being recorded and transcribed for the purposes of closed captioning and preparing minutes
using Cablecast and ClerkMinutes software. Orange County Board of Commissioners’ meetings and work
sessions are available via live streaming video at https://www.orangecountync.gov/953/Board-of-CountyCommissioners-BOCC and Orange County Gov TV on channels 1301 or 97.6 (Spectrum Cable).
1
October 13, 2026
Joint Meeting of the Board of County
Commissioners and the Fire Chiefs Association
2
In memory of Commissioner
Jamezetta Bedford
2
3
Topics for Discussion
• Length of Service Awards
• Departmental Updates: Administration
and Accomplishments
• Public Safety Health and Wellness:
Advancing responder health, resilience,
and access to annual firefighter physicals.
• Open Forum: Q&A
3
4
Length of Service Awards
5
Overview
• Recognizing 41 personnel across 7
departments
– 2 retirees
• Combined, more than 1,200 years
– Average 29 years of service
5
6
South Orange Rescue
Squad
• Matthew Mauzy (30 years)
• Leah Tilden (25 years)
• Eric Stone (20 years)
Retiree
• Syd Alexander (22 years)
Chair of the Board of Directors, Longtime CPR Instructor
6
7
Eno Fire
Department
• Tim Crabtree (45 years)
• Keith Hayes (40 years)
• David O’Dell (40 years)
• David Davis (35 years)
• Betty Williamson (30 years)
• Boffey James (30 years)
• Steve Cook (30 years)
• Lee O’Dell (25 years)
• Daylon Hayes (20 years)
7
8
Orange Grove Fire
Department
• Tom Griggs (50 years)
• Richard Sykes (50 years)
• Jane Waddell (35 years)
• Ricky Baker (25 years)
8
9
Chapel Hill Fire
Department
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9
Justin Lanning (20 years)
Michael Crabtree (20 years)
Charles Philpot (20 years)
Heather Robinson (20 years)
Bryan Pendleton (20 years)
Darryl Russell (25 years)
David Sasser (25 years)
Richard Cherry (25 years)
Gerald Boone (25 years)
10
Chapel Hill Fire
Department
• Ryan Warner (25 years)
• Robert Pruitt (30 years)
Retirees
• Jose Alvarez, Sr. (24 years)
Served since May 2001 and retired as a Master Firefighter/FF II.
He previously served with the Town of Carrboro, received
numerous citations of appreciation and several commendation
letters.
10
11
Caldwell Fire
Department
• Joe Bumgarner (20 years)
11
12
New Hope Fire
Department
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
12
Mike Tapp (55 years)
William Blankenship (45 years)
Cliff Carroll (40 years)
Eddie Walker (30 years)
Howard Pratt (30 years)
Brian Blalock (30 years)
David Hunt (20 years)
13
Carrboro Fire-Rescue
Department
• Keith Crabtree (25 years)
• Chad Woods (25 years)
• Douglas Yates (25 years)
13
14
Departmental Updates
15
South Orange Rescue
Squad
Chief:
Matthew Mauzy
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• 1,500+ EMS calls; 160+ EMS standbys for events
•
Hillsborough Marathon/5k --- Tar Heel 10-miler --- Savanaha Bananas
• 80 Volunteer Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)
• 20-year anniversary of teaching free Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
skills to 10,000+ community members
• Provided technical rescue response locally and throughout the state,
including swiftwater rescue and large-area search and rescue
• 14 Missing Person SAR calls resulted in person returning home
• Ambulance life-cycle purchases in-progress with multi-year lead-times
15
16
Efland Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Kevin Brooks
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
West Orange (3)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
•
•
•
•
16
Certified 3 members in Firefighter
Certified 3 members in Driver Operator
Purchased New Chief Vehicle
Installed New Generator at station 3
17
Orange Rural Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Jeff Cabe
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Town of Hillsborough (3)
Central Orange (3)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Completed two fire academies and certified six new firefighters
• Completed construction and placed a firefighter training structure in service.
• Ordered an engine to replace a 25-year-old truck
17
18
Eno Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Daylon Hayes
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
East Orange (4)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
18
TR and Rescue equipment improvement
4-person staffing initiated
PPE purchase
SCBA replacement began
New Tanker process began
Multiple water points added
Battalion Chief position implemented
19
New Hope Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
William Blankenship
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Orange New Hope (4)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
19
Ordered a New Fire Engine
Preparing for NC Rescue Association for Heavy Rescue Rating
Updating and Improving Rescue Equipment
Improving Static Water Points
Preparing for an upcoming Insurance Rating Inspection
Actively recruiting for multiple full- and part-time positions
Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Efforts
Received three grants to support Turnout Gear, Professional Certifications
and Station Signage
20
Orange Grove Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Ricky Baker
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Cane Creek (5)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Placed a mini-pumper in service to have a multifunctional unit in service
• Secured financing for the Station 2 expansion on Rocky Ridge Road in
partnership with Orange County.
• Completed design and bidding for the Station 2 expansion and began
construction.
• Continue to see a slight increase in the district call volume
• Expanded our part-time coverage to 12 hours daily
• Recorded 5,244 hours provided by members of the department including
training classes and incident response.
20
21
Cedar Grove Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Jeff Borland
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Cedar Grove (5)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Received zero-interest loan from Piedmont Electric for New Fire Engine
• New Fire Engine to be delivered this month (10/2026)
• Received OSFM matching grant for (5) Sets Turn Out Gear and new
equipment for New Fire Engine
21
22
Caldwell Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Brad Allison
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Caldwell (4)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Added on part-time staff Monday-Friday 8am-6pm to improve daily coverage
and response capabilities.
• Maintained insurance rating for the Caldwell Fire District
• Purchased some additional rescue equipment
• Received OSFM grant to purchase turnout gear and pagers
• Purchased a new Fire Engine for Station 2 to replace 33-year-old Engine
• Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Efforts
• Added additional water points throughout the district to improve water supply
22
23
White Cross Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Phillip Nasseri
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
White Cross (4)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• We placed a new Fire Engine in service in February of this year
• Continued collaboration with the Chapel Hill High School Firefighter
program. We currently have 10 Explorers from their program
• Sponsored three new members through the ACC Fire Academy.
• We hosted NIMS 300 and 400 classes and a Technical Rescuer
Course
• Successfully transitioned from a 501(c)(4) to a 501(c)(3)
23
24
Carrboro Fire-Rescue
Department
Fire Chief:
Will Potter
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Town of Carrboro (1)
South Orange (2)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Staffing and leadership: Developing newer personnel and preparing future
leaders for anticipated retirements.
• Regional coordination: Strengthening coordination with mutual aid partners
to improve response consistency and effectiveness.
• Emergency preparedness: Implementing the updated Emergency
Operations Plan, advancing EOC readiness, incident planning, and
coordination across Town departments.
• Storm recovery: Continuing Tropical Storm Chantal recovery efforts,
including FEMA Public Assistance projects.
24
25
Chapel Hill Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Jay Mebane
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Town of Chapel Hill (2)
Greater Chapel Hill (2)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
• Beginning construction documentation for Chapel Hill Station 4 replacement
• Beginning site feasibility study for Chapel Hill Station 3 replacement in
partnership with Orange County EMS
• Call volume on track to increase
• Discussion initiated for relocation of training center currently located beside
Chapel Hill Station 4 on Weaver Dairy Road
25
26
Mebane Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
John Wellons
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
Town of Mebane (2)
East Alamance (3)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
•
•
•
•
•
26
Hired additional staffing to bring the ladder truck to four personnel.
Placed a new Engine in service
Station 4 approved and planned to open in spring 2028 along with staffing
New Ladder truck will arrive in November
Certified 12 in Swift Water
27
North Chatham Fire
Department
Fire Chief:
Matt Ingold
Insurance District (ISO Rating):
North Chatham (3)
Damascus (3)
Accomplishments and Current Initiatives
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
27
Implemented two Battalion Chiefs per shift
Added extrication rescue equipment to 3 Engines
Added additional 6 personnel to shift
Purchased two double stack Swiftwater Trailers
Ordered a new 101’ Aerial to be delivered mid fall
Two Engines are ordered to be delivered in spring of 2027
Purchased Two Ford F-350s to serve as Quick Response Vehicles (QRVs) and
provide towing capabilities for rescue trailers.
28
Countywide Accomplishments
• Continued progress on CAD system
replacement.
• Completed school bi-directional amplifier (BDA)
projects to improve emergency radio coverage.
• Strengthened coordination among public safety
departments for shared planning and emergency
response.
28
29
Public Safety Health and
Wellness
30
Physical Health and Readiness
• Public safety work places significant physical
demands on personnel.
• Prevention and early identification of health
concerns support long-term health and
readiness.
• Fitness, adequate recovery, and occupational
medical care are complementary investments.
• Healthy personnel help sustain reliable
emergency services.
30
31
Annual Firefighter Physicals
• Establish consistent access to annual NFPAaligned occupational physicals.
• Evaluate health in relation to the demands of
firefighting.
• Explore a coordinated approach across
departments to improve access and purchasing
efficiency.
• Request commissioner consideration of
financial support for annual firefighter
physicals.
31
32
Behavioral Health and Resilience
• County hosted Struggle Well training, with two
additional classes scheduled.
• Chapel Hill hosted Assisting Individuals in Crisis
and Group Crisis Intervention.
• These opportunities strengthen regional capacity
to support personnel through stress and difficult
incidents.
• Participation across departments builds
relationships and a shared approach to
responder wellness.
32
33
Wellness Priorities and Next Steps
• Encourage personnel to seek support early.
• Equip supervisors to recognize concerns and
connect personnel with appropriate resources.
• Strengthen peer support and access to
confidential professional care.
• Continue regional training and coordination to
sustain these efforts.
33
34
Questions and Discussion
1
Public Safety Radio System
Improvements Overview
September 14, 2026
1
Expected Outcomes
2
Overview existing public safety radio system
Pinpoint gaps affecting public safety radio communications
Overview proposed improvements and timeline
Overview cost sharing contributions
2
Background
3
County and municipality public safety users rely on the
North Carolina Voice Interoperability Plan for Emergency
Communications (VIPER) system for incident response
communications
Gaps impacting operational effectiveness include:
Radio coverage
System capacity
Reliability and resiliency
4
VIPER Today
4
Currently, there are four VIPER multicast sites that provide most of the
VIPER coverage in Orange County:
Law’s Mountain (8 Channels)
Eno Mountain (12 Channels)
Chapel Hill (12 Channels)
Chatham Mountain (8 Channels)
Existing backhaul links between sites and dispatch center approaching
equipment lifecycle sunsetting and lacking redundancy
Towers in the City of Mebane and on Cole Mill Road in Durham County
also provide coverage contributions
6
VIPER Coverage
Today
5
Legend
County Line
City Line
Current Tower Site
Current MW Path
7
Proposed VIPER Improvements − Phase I
6
Conversion of multiple broadcast (multi-cast) sites to simultaneous broadcast
(simul-cast) sites and upgrade to latest Motorola RF and networking platform
Construct new 380-foot self-supporting tower at Eno Mountain due to
overloading and aging constraints
Decommission equipment at the UNC Chapel Hill Hospital and implement
simulcast site at the OWASA water tank in Manning Drive
VIPER infrastructure will be maintained by the State, lessening the burden on
the County and municipalities and providing a consistent upgrade cadence
9
Phase I VIPER
Upgrade
7
Legend
County Line
City Line
Current Tower Site
Proposed Tower Site
Current MW Path
10
Proposed VIPER Improvements − Phase II
8
Adding coverage fill sites assists with on-street and in-building reception
Caldwell Fire Department
Orange Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Millhouse Road Park
New sites will provide more uniform coverage throughout the service area,
improving continuity of operations and boosting user confidence and safety
Increases primary Orange County VIPER from four (4) sites to seven (7) sites
11
Proposed VIPER Improvements − Phase II
9
Infrastructure added for coverage improvements will be transferred to VIPER
Office for maintenance and upgrade, reducing County and municipality
operating costs
Upgrading backhaul links for capacity, redundancy, and resiliency
RF Sites to receive new Motorola D-Series RF Site equipment
RF Sites to receive all new antenna networks
Motorola Virtual Prime Site for simulcast control
12
Phase II VIPER
Upgrade
10
Legend
County Line
City Line
Current Tower Site
Proposed Tower Site
Current MW Path
Proposed MW Path
13
Existing
Phase I
Phase II
11
14
VIPER Coverage Improvement Comparison − Portable On-Street
12
Portable On Street
Baseline
Service Area
Phase 1
Phase 2
Net Change
Baseline → Phase 1
Net Change
Phase 1 → Phase 2
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
Orange County
94.8%
88.6%
94.8%
91.6%
96.5%
95.9%
0.0
+3.0
+1.7
+4.3
Hillsborough
99.5%
98.6%
99.9%
99.9%
99.9%
99.9%
+0.4
+1.3
0.0
0.0
Chapel Hill
98.5%
94.9%
98.1%
96.0%
99.1%
96.7%
-0.4
+1.1
+1.0
+0.7
Carrboro
98.8%
95.0%
98.7%
96.0%
99.9%
98.6%
-0.1
+1.0
+1.2
+2.6
Mebane
98.5%
95.2%
99.9%
98.4%
99.9%
98.5%
+1.4
+3.2
0.0
+0.1
The Chapel Hill and Carrboro predicted nominal percentage point reductions between Baseline and Phase 1 computer
predictions is due to the possibility of time-domain interference (TDI) or the arrival of simulcast signals to the receiver
slightly out of phase. During actual system design and optimization, it is possible to mitigate or remove this constraint.
15
VIPER Coverage Improvement Comparison − Portable In-Building
13
Portable In Building - 12 dB
Baseline
Service Area
Phase 1
Phase 2
Net Change
Baseline → Phase 1
Net Change
Phase 1 → Phase 2
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
TO
TI
Orange County
80.1%
68.6%
84.5%
71.2%
90.4%
82.3%
+4.4
+2.6
+5.9
+11.1
Hillsborough
96.3%
92.4%
99.6%
98.5%
99.7%
98.7%
+3.3
+6.1
+0.1
+0.2
Chapel Hill
90.8%
81.8%
93.2%
81.8%
95.5%
83.5%
+2.4
0.0
+2.3
+1.7
Carrboro
90.3%
81.6%
93.0%
80.7%
97.8%
88.7%
+2.7
-0.9
+4.8
+8.0
Mebane
90.9%
85.6%
97.6%
90.3%
98.1%
90.4%
+6.7
+4.7
+0.5
+0.1
The Town of Carrboro predicted nominal percentage point reductions between Baseline and Phase 1 computer
predictions is due to the possibility of time-domain interference (TDI) or the arrival of simulcast signals to the receiver
slightly out of phase. During actual system design and optimization, it is possible to mitigate or remove this constraint.
16
Projected Timeline
14
20
Partner Cost Sharing Contributions (Proposed)*
15
Propose roughly a 70/30 split between County and municipalities
Aligns close to parcel tax revenue calculations and subscriber
quantities
Partner
Subscriber Count
Cost Sharing Phase I
Cost Sharing Phase II
Total Cost Sharing
Orange County
1,169 (62%)
$8,642,182
$8,418,116
$17,060,298
Municipalities
716 (38%)
$3,992,587
$3,889,071
$7,881,658
1,185
$12,634,769
$12,307,187
$24,941,956
TOTALS
*Rough order of magnitude (ROM) cost estimate subject to variations from scope, inflation, supplier pricing, and tariffs
22
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No. 3
SUBJECT: Discussion on Oversight Options for the Implementation of Tax Assessment
Reforms
DEPARTMENT: County Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
September 16, 2025 Establishment of Tax
Assessment Work Group Agenda
Abstract
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Travis Myren, 919-245-2308
PURPOSE: To discuss oversight options for the implementation of Tax Assessment Reforms
recommended by GAR Associates.
BACKGROUND: In May of 2026, the Board approved a contract with GAR Associates to conduct
a detailed statistical and operational analysis of the processes and procedures used by the Tax
Office to determine assessed property values. At the Business meeting on October 6, 2026, the
Board received a presentation on the findings and recommendations from GAR Associates. The
report contained a series of thirty (30) recommendations spanning the entire tax assessment life
cycle, from data collection and valuation practices to quality assurance and community
engagement.
The GAR Report benefitted significantly from the involvement of the Tax Assessment Work Group.
The Work Group was initially charged with providing input to the consultant team (see
Attachment). Since the report and recommendations have now been finalized, the Work Group’s
initial charge has been accomplished and can be discontinued in its current form.
The Board has expressed interest in continuing oversight and community involvement as the Tax
Office implements the recommendations of the consultant. This can be accomplished in a variety
of ways. Options for continuing oversight include:
1) Creating a new charge for the existing Tax Assessment Work Group to include
implementation oversight and extending its activity for one year;
2) Establishing a new group including community members and Board representation to
oversee implementation efforts over the next year; and
3) Appointing a Board sub-committee comprised of 2-3 Commissioners to oversee
implementation.
2
With any of these options, the Board could direct the Tax Administrator to submit periodic reports
on implementation efforts to both the oversight group and the full Board of Commissioners. The
Board has also authorized the County Manager to retain a subject matter expert(s) to offer
technical assistance and assist with project management. These experts would also be charged
with supporting a routine reporting cycle.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Establishing a new oversight entity does not have a direct financial impact.
Staff support will be provided using existing personnel.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports all of the goals and objectives of the
Strategic Plan as reliable and trusted tax values are fundamental in supporting all operations of
County government.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board discuss establishing an
oversight entity to guide the implementation of recommendations contained in the GAR report. If
the Board achieves a general consensus on the format of an oversight entity, the County Manager
will prepare a formal charge, composition, and timeline for Board consideration at an upcoming
Business Meeting.
3
COPY
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: September 16, 2025
Action Agenda
Item No. 8-i
SUBJECT: Approval of the Establishment, Composition, Role and Charge for the Tax
Assessment Work Group and Approval of Commissioner Appointments to the
Work Group
DEPARTMENT: County Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Travis Myren, 919-245-2308
PURPOSE: To:
1) Approve the establishment, composition, role and charge for the Tax Assessment Work
Group; and
2) Approve the appointment of three (3) members of the Board of Commissioners to serve on
the Work Group.
BACKGROUND: In June 2025, the County Manager recommended the creation of a Tax
Assessment Work Group to study and make recommendations to improve and ensure the
fairness, accuracy, and consistency of the tax assessment process. At its August 26, 2025
Business meeting, the Board of Commissioners reviewed and discussed the Work Group and its
composition, role and charge. The County will select a consultant through a request for proposal
process to work with the Work Group. The consultant will also be asked to recommend the
organizational capacity, staffing, and structure required to implement its recommendations.
The role of the Work Group is to review the scope of services for consulting services, participate
in vendor selection, and provide feedback to the consultant at milestone stages of the project.
The Work Group will be comprised of the following members.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Three Commissioners
County Manager
Tax Administrator
Budget Director
Director of Civil Rights and Civic Life
Community Relations Director
Representative from the North Carolina
Housing Coalition
•
•
•
•
Representative from the Orange County
Property Tax Justice Coalition
Non-Profit Housing Provider
Two (2) Community Representatives from
District 1
Two (2) Community Representatives from
District 2
4
Community representatives will be selected through an application process. The Clerk to the
Board’s Office began soliciting applications from the public in late August, with applications from
community members due by September 30, 2025. As noted at the August 26, 2025 Business
meeting, the Board intends to make community member appointments at its October 7, 2025
Business meeting.
In order for the Work Group to begin its role, the Board must formally establish the Group, approve
the role and charge of the Work Group and formally appoint the Commissioner representatives.
•
Charge
The charge of the Tax Assessment Work Group is to evaluate the policies, processes, and
procedures used by the Orange County Tax Office to assess property values and
communicate to the public. The Work Group will provide feedback and input to a consultant
retained by the County to make recommendations on changes and enhancements to the tax
assessment process that will improve and ensure the accuracy and fairness of property
assessments.
•
Commissioner Members
The Board discussed appointing Commissioner Phyllis Portie-Ascott, Commissioner Marilyn
Carter, and Commissioner Amy Fowler to the Work Group, with leadership of the Work Group
and its meetings to be determined by the three (3) Commissioner representatives.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The cost to hire a consultant is not known at this time.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports all of the goals and objectives of the
Strategic Plan as reliable and trusted tax values are fundamental in supporting all operations of
County government.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board:
1) Approve the establishment, composition, role and charge for the Tax Assessment Work
Group as specified in this abstract; and
2) Approve the appointment of Commissioner Phyllis Portie-Ascott, Commissioner Marilyn
Carter, and Commissioner Amy Fowler as Commissioner representatives on the Work
Group, with leadership of the Work Group and its meetings to be determined by the three
(3) Commissioner representatives.
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
4
SUBJECT: Discussion on Orange County Board of County Commissioners Advisory
Board Policy – Attendance Requirements
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A – Advisory Board Policy
(Last Revised February
17, 2026)
Attachment B – PowerPoint Presentation
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2130
PURPOSE: To review the Orange County Board of County Commissioners Advisory Board Policy
(Advisory Board Policy), receive feedback from advisory board members and County staff liaisons
on existing attendance requirements, provide clarification and direction to staff on the policy’s
application, and determine what amendments, if any, to make to the policy.
BACKGROUND: During the January 16, 2026 Retreat, the Board discussed amendments to the
Advisory Board Policy that would simplify attendance expectations for volunteers and clarify
removal procedures for neglect of duty or nonparticipation. These and other amendments were
approved by the Board at the February 17, 2026 Business meeting.
The relevant section of the Advisory Board Policy currently reads:
“H. Removal
1. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards serve at the pleasure of the Orange County
Board of Commissioners and may be removed for any reason or no reason, with or without
cause, upon a majority vote.
2. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards are expected to abide by the highest ethical
and professional standards.
3. In addition to Section III(H)(1) above, the Orange County Board of Commissioners will
remove any member of an advisory board for neglect of duty or nonparticipation. Neglect
of duty and nonparticipation are defined as follows:
a. Missing three (3) consecutive meetings; or
b. Missing twenty-five percent (25%) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
4. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify a member if the member is at risk of
being removed pursuant to section III(H)(3) after missing two (2) consecutive meetings or
missing two (2) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
5. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify the Clerk to the Board of Orange
County Commissioners if a member has violated section III(H)(3).”
2
The updated attendance requirements apply to all meetings held during calendar year 2026. All
advisory board members and the staff that works with them were notified of the changes by email
in February 2026.
The Clerk’s Office collects attendance data on a quarterly basis. By the end of June 30, 2026, a
total of four (4) advisory board members were subject to removal for missing three (3) meetings
in 2026. One (1) resigned, and three (3) were removed by a unanimous vote of the Board. Twentythree (23) members had missed two (2) meetings by the end of the second quarter. Attendance
through September 30, 2026, is still being collected and reviewed, but there are other members
who have now missed three (3) meetings and will be submitted for removal under the current
policy based on third-quarter attendance.
Since the updated policy went into effect, advisory board members and staff in County
departments that support advisory boards have shared concerns and feedback with the Clerk’s
Office. Some topics include:
• Allow absences for valid reasons
o Some have requested that the policy define and consider “excused absences”,
which would not count against a member. The Board would need to agree on what
constitutes an “excused” absence to include that in the policy and authorize the
Clerk/Advisory Board Chair/other identified person to determine if a reason provided
meets the definition.
• Increase the number of allowed absences or capture involvement in another way
o Some have requested the Board consider increasing the number of allowed
absences.
o Some have also raised concerns that members may need to miss a scheduled
meeting, but remain involved in advancing the advisory board's efforts, including
subcommittee meetings and attending events, and feel the current policy does not
take that into account. An example of a board this could be true for is the Adult Care
Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee. This Committee meets
only four (4) times each year, but members are actively involved throughout the year
in completing quarterly site visits at all the facilities in the county.
• Rescheduled regular meetings
o Scenario 1: An advisory board decides to reschedule its regular meeting date. A
member who could attend the original date cannot attend the rescheduled date.
Does this absence count against them?
o Scenario 2: In error, a staff liaison announces that a meeting is cancelled. That
person follows up shortly after to clarify that the meeting is still occurring, but some
members only saw the cancellation email. Does this absence count against a
member?
The Clerk’s Office also requests clarification and guidance on the application of the policy for the
following situations:
• Attendance for appointees representing other organizations/governments
o For example, the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
includes a council member from the Town of Chapel Hill and the Town of Carrboro,
as well as a Town of Hillsborough Commissioner. It also includes members who
were identified to represent outside organizations, such as the two Chambers of
Commerce, the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, UNC, the North Carolina High
School Athletic Association, and the Orange County Lodging Association. How
should attendance be measured in these instances?
3
•
Attendance for alternates, non-voting youth delegates, and ex officio members
o Additionally, questions have been raised on how to apply the policy to ex officio
members and non-voting youth delegates.
o Alternates are only expected to attend when a regular member is not available, so
the policy should exempt them from the standard requirements.
The Board is asked to consider the feedback from advisory board members and County staff and
determine if any amendments should be made to the Advisory Board Policy.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS
We provide information and opportunities for engagement in a transparent manner so that
all in our community have knowledge, understanding, and a voice.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board review the Advisory Board
Policy, receive feedback from advisory board members and County staff liaisons, provide
clarification and direction to staff on the policy’s application, and determine what amendments, if
any, to make to the policy. Any amendments to the policy will be presented at the November 5,
2026 Business Meeting for approval.
Attachment A
4
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
ADVISORY BOARD POLICY
SECTION I:
SCOPE
A. Purpose
1. To establish a policy and procedures whereby the Orange County Board of
Commissioners will make appointments to Orange County advisory boards,
committees, commissions, and councils (hereinafter “advisory boards”).
B. Authority
1. North Carolina General Statute 153A-76 grants boards of county commissioners the
authority to establish advisory boards.
2. The Orange County Board of Commissioners may establish rules and regulations in
reference to managing the interest and business of the County.
3. The Orange County Board of Commissioners has the responsibility to appoint
residents to serve as members of advisory boards established by the Commissioners.
4. Orange County department directors and staff are responsible for providing support
to the advisory boards.
C. Policy and Periodic Review
1. This Advisory Board Policy establishes some parameters for:
a. Appointments to state-mandated, regional, and/or county-developed
advisory boards.
b. Removals from such advisory boards.
c. Quorum and voting standards.
d. A code of general conduct for advisory board members.
e. Other aspects of advisory board service the Orange County Board of
Commissioners wishes to address.
2. Periodic Review
a. Periodic review of this Advisory Board Policy will be conducted every two (2)
years by the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
b. This Advisory Board Policy may be changed or adjusted as deemed necessary
by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, regardless of whether it is
scheduled for a review.
D. Applicability
1. To the extent it does not conflict with the statute or ordinance creating a specific
advisory board, where applicable, this Advisory Board Policy applies to the following
Orange County advisory boards:
a. Adult Care Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
b. Advisory Board on Aging
c. Affordable Housing Advisory Board
d. Agricultural Preservation Board
e. Animal Services Advisory Board
f. Arts Commission
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
1
Attachment A
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
o.
5
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Commission for the Environment
Economic Development Advisory Board
Historic Preservation Commission
Human Relations Commission
Opioid Advisory Committee
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Orange County Planning Board
Orange Unified Transportation Board
2. This Advisory Board Policy shall also apply to any new boards, commissions, councils,
committees, work groups, or task forces upon creation by the Orange County Board
of Commissioners when the approved composition includes positions to be filled by
Orange County residents.
3. Except as otherwise provided herein or through a specific advisory board policies and
procedures document, this Advisory Board Policy shall control the appointment,
reporting, operation, and other requirements of the advisory boards listed above,
except to the extent the same are controlled by a specific statute or ordinance. In
those cases, as noted above, where a statute or ordinance controls the requirements
of the advisory board and the terms of this Advisory Board Policy conflict with the
terms of the statute or ordinance, the statute or ordinance shall prevail.
4. Although not advisory boards, the Board of Adjustment, Board of Equalization and
Review, and Animal Services Hearing Panel shall comply with the terms of this
Advisory Board Policy to the extent those boards are specifically addressed herein.
SECTION II: DUTIES
A. Community Contact
1. Advisory boards, through their membership and subcommittees, shall maintain
contact with stakeholder groups. In this manner, the advisory board is kept apprised
of current information related to matters under the jurisdiction of Orange County.
B. Primary Responsibilities
1. Individual advisory boards shall maintain awareness of their goals and objectives as
those goals are related to the Orange County Board of Commissioners’ adopted
overall goals and objectives for Orange County.
2. All actions or recommendations of the advisory board shall be communicated to the
Orange County Board of Commissioners as provided herein.
SECTION III:
MEMBERSHIP
A. Authority and Appointment Eligibility
1. North Carolina General Statute 153A-76 grants boards of county commissioners the
authority to establish advisory boards and to appoint members to and remove
members from those advisory boards. In acting on this authority, the Orange County
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
2
Attachment A
6
Board of Commissioners hereby establishes certain general conditions to which
applicants and members of advisory boards should conform.
a. All members of standing, statutory boards must meet the qualifications for
the specific statutory requirements for an appointed position.
b. All board members must be eighteen (18) years of age or older unless
applying for a youth-designated position.
c. Except as otherwise provided in a specific advisory board policies and
procedures document, all board members shall be residents of Orange
County and shall maintain their residence in Orange County. The Clerk shall
confirm that applicants are residents of Orange County.
1. Residence is defined as the place, especially the house, in which a
person lives or resides; dwelling; home
d. All board members shall have a good reputation for integrity and an interest
in community service.
e. No nominee to a board shall be currently employed by Orange County
government and serve on a board that directly affects their work.
f. No nominee may currently be a party to or be the actual legal representative
in litigation against Orange County. The Clerk shall confirm that nominees
are not involved in such litigation.
g. Each nominee must be prepared and committed to participating in advisory
board work in a manner that enhances relationships between the county and
the community.
h. All board members are representatives of the Orange County Board of
Commissioners and shall conduct themselves, both in their official actions
and personal actions so as to be above reproach in their conduct and shall
not bring disrepute to either the County or the Commissioners.
i. No person appointed to an advisory board may concurrently serve in any
publicly elected office. *(Does not apply where the appointment is required
by law, intergovernmental agreement, or approved Orange County board
specific policy—applies to all boards, committees, and quasi-judicial boards)
j. The Orange County Board of Commissioners may waive any of the conditions
within this section, with the exception of statutorily imposed conditions.
B. Composition
1. The Orange County Board of Commissioners shall appoint all voting and nonvoting
ex-officio members to advisory boards. The Orange County Board of Commissioners
shall endeavor to appoint members who represent the ethnic, racial, cultural,
demographic, and geographic diversity of the community.
C. Selection Criteria
1. Appointed members, except for ex-officio members, shall be qualified by the Clerk to
the Board of County Commissioners.
2. Members shall be appointed from applicants who have properly filed and submitted
applications to the Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
3
Attachment A
7
D. Application, Nomination, and Appointment Procedures
1. All members of advisory boards serve at the pleasure of the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
2. Appointments to advisory boards will be initiated with a public application process.
3. All appointments to advisory boards will be made by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
a. The Orange County Board of Commissioners may elect to interview applicants
to certain advisory boards.
b. In the event the Orange County Board of Commissioners conducts such
interviews the advisory board to which the applicant seeks appointment may
identify and suggest interview questions to the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
4. Applicant nominations and appointment recommendations from advisory boards to
the Orange County Board of Commissioners are welcome but are not guaranteed to
result in appointment.
a. Advisory boards may elect to interview applicants prior to making a
nomination or recommendation.
b. In the event an advisory board conducts such interviews, the Orange County
Board of Commissioners may identify and suggest interview questions to the
advisory board.
E. Term
1. No person appointed to an Orange County advisory board shall serve on that board
for more than two consecutive terms of three years each. Any appointment to a
vacant position for less than a full three-year term shall be considered a full term if
the time of membership is 24 months or greater.
2. Extension of a member’s term may be approved by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners if it is determined that it is in the best interest of Orange County to
allow an individual to continue to serve.
3. In order to establish staggered terms, the original voting members of the advisory
board shall be appointed as follows:
a. One-third for a one-year term.
b. One-third for a two-year term.
c. One-third for a three-year term.
d. Thereafter, each newly appointed voting member shall serve for a threeyear term.
4. Advisory board members whose terms are due to expire may request that they be
appointed to a second term or be asked to accept a second term appointment to the
position.
5. The membership of any advisory board member whom the Orange County Board of
Commissioners declines to appoint to a second term shall immediately terminate
upon the expiration of their term.
6. No person may concurrently hold more than two (2) positions appointed by the Board
of County Commissioners. This restriction does not impact an individual’s service on
the Board of Equalization and Review or short-term task forces or work groups.
7. No person may serve concurrently on the Orange County Planning Board and Orange
County Board of Adjustment.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
4
Attachment A
8
F. Resignation
1. If a member wishes to resign, the member shall submit their resignation in writing to
the Chair of the advisory board on which the member serves and the Clerk to the
Board of Orange County Commissioners, noting the effective date of the resignation.
2. The Orange County Board of Commissioners may recognize the individual’s service
via a letter or certificate.
3. An announcement of the open seat will be made after the resignation becomes
effective.
G. Vacancies
1. Upon the expiration of the term of service of members or should a vacancy otherwise
occur, the Orange County Board of Commissioners shall have the responsibility of
selecting and appointing new members to the advisory board.
2. Should any vacancy for which there is a board specific requirement that such vacancy
be filled by a nominee of a municipal corporation or a resident of a specific Orange
County township remain unfilled for six (6) consecutive months the board specific
requirements may be set aside and the Orange County Board of Commissioners may
fill the vacancy with any applicant otherwise qualified to serve.
H. Removal
1. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards serve at the pleasure of the Orange
County Board of Commissioners and may be removed for any reason or no reason,
with or without cause, upon a majority vote.
2. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards are expected to abide by the highest
ethical and professional standards.
3. In addition to Section III(H)(1) above, the Orange County Board of Commissioners will
remove any member of an advisory board for neglect of duty or nonparticipation.
Neglect of duty and nonparticipation are defined as follows:
a. Missing three (3) consecutive meetings; or
b. Missing twenty-five percent (25%) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
4. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify a member if the member is at risk
of being removed pursuant to section III(H)(3) after missing two (2) consecutive
meetings or missing two (2) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
5. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify the Clerk to the Board of Orange
County Commissioners if a member has violated section III(H)(3).
I.
Release from Service
1. When it is deemed necessary by the Orange County Board of Commissioners to
release a member from their term of appointment on an advisory board, the affected
individual shall be notified by the Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners by
letter and/or electronic mail.
2. When an advisory board has completed its function, the members shall be informed
of the completion of their service and the termination of the advisory board by letter
and/or electronic mail.
SECTION IV.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
5
Attachment A
9
A. Advisory Board
1. The Orange County Board of Commissioners will consider all advisory board
recommendations and/or concerns.
a. Should any concerns remain unresolved after a response has been received
from the advisory board, the Orange County Board of Commissioners may
request that the matter be referred to the County Manager.
2. To enhance trust between Orange County Government and the community, Orange
County advisory boards shall:
a. Assist the staff of Orange County in achieving a greater understanding of the
nature and causes of community issues, with an emphasis on improving
relations between the department and the residents.
b. Recommend methods to encourage and develop the advisory board’s ability
to accomplish its work.
c. Work throughout the community to gain relevant information about advisory
board issues and communicate these to the staff of Orange County and the
Orange County Board of Commissioners.
d. Promote public awareness of contemporary issues that Orange County must
address to achieve the Orange County Board of Commissioners’ goals and
priorities.
B. Members
1. Members shall attend meetings of the advisory board, serve on subcommittees, and
perform other functions as assigned by the advisory board chair with the approval of
the advisory board.
2. If a member is unable to attend a meeting, the member shall contact the Chair or
designated staff as soon as possible, and at least forty-eight (48) hours before the
scheduled meeting.
3. Ex officio members may be appointed by the Orange County Board of Commissioners
for the purpose of meeting subject matter expertise needs. Ex officio members are
nonvoting members of the advisory board.
4. Upon review of the above matters, the Orange County advisory board shall address
recommendations and concerns, if any, to the Orange County Board of
Commissioners in writing.
C. Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary
1. Selection
a. Election
1. Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary shall be elected by the advisory board
unless otherwise specified by the Board of Commissioners.
2. Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary shall be elected to one-year terms.
3. Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary shall serve no more than three
consecutive one-year terms.
4. Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary shall assume office on the date of their
election. At the first advisory board meeting upon assuming office the
advisory board Chair or department staff shall present members with a
copy of the advisory board’s charge, scope of authority, membership
responsibilities, and code of conduct.
5. The Clerk’s Office shall be notified of the results of each election.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
6
Attachment A
SECTION V.
10
2. Responsibilities
a. The advisory board Chair:
1. Calls all meetings.
2. Serves as the presiding officer and conducts advisory board meetings.
3. Acts as the authorized spokesperson for the advisory board.
4. Assists staff in developing the advisory board meeting agenda.
5. Appoints and dissolves subcommittees, and the Chair and members
thereof, of the body in consultation and with approval of the advisory
board.
6. Sets goals for the advisory board in consultation with the Orange
County Board of Commissioners.
7. Carries out advisory board assignments as required by the Orange
County Board of Commissioners.
8. Reviews all advisory board minutes and proposes recommendations or
assigns another member of the advisory board to do so.
9. Assists staff in preparing the annual report and work plan of the
advisory board each year.
10. Signs correspondence and represents the board before the Board of
County Commissioners with the formal approval of the advisory board
by motion and vote.
11. The Chair or a quorum of the commission may call a special meeting.
The Chair may also cancel a regular meeting.
12. Performs other duties necessary or customary to the office.
b. The advisory board Vice-Chair:
1. Serves as the presiding officer and conducts advisory board meetings
in the absence of the Chair.
2. Has all the responsibilities of the Chair in the Chair’s absence.
c. The advisory board Secretary:
1. Takes (or oversees the taking of) minutes for all advisory board
meetings.
2. Keeps attendance records.
3. Submits minutes to the Chair and staff liaison to be distributed to
advisory board members in advance of meetings.
4. Submits approved advisory board minutes to the Clerk to the Orange
County Board of Commissioners for retention and distribution to the
Orange County Board of Commissioners.
5. Assures that other records of the advisory board are kept as directed
by the Chair or the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
d. Removal
1. The Chair, Vice-Chair and/or Secretary may be replaced at any time by
the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
ORGANIZATION
A. Orientation and Training
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
7
Attachment A
11
1. Orange County will make available for advisory board members and department staff
training on state and/or county goals and priorities as well as relevant statutes and
policies, including open meetings, public records, conflicts of interest, and ethics.
2. Each member shall complete an orientation to familiarize the advisory board
members with the operation of County government, applicable department rules,
and the operating procedures of the advisory board.
3. Each voting member will be encouraged to complete the orientation within the time
frame established by the policy of the specific advisory board to which they have been
appointed.
4. Advisory board members will be issued a manual and should become familiar with its
contents.
B. Operating Expenses
1. Members, when in service on a board, are not employees of Orange County.
2. Members serve in a voluntary capacity and shall receive monetary compensation or
reimbursement only per standard county policy and with Orange County Board of
Commissioners’ approval.
3. Members shall receive no financial or employee benefits from the County unless
authorized by another section of this policy and specifically approved by the Orange
County Board of Commissioners.
4. The County will provide office supplies and assume responsibility for other reasonable
expenses necessary for the operation of the board.
C. Confidentiality
1. No member of the advisory board shall make any written or oral statement of any
confidential county matter to any individual, business, or agency. A violation of this
section will result in that member’s immediate removal from the advisory board. This
prohibition does not apply to communications with county staff, officials, or their
agents conducting official county investigations.
2. Members of the advisory board may receive information regarding personnel matters
and other information of a sensitive or confidential nature. It shall be the duty and
responsibility of each member to respect and maintain the confidentiality of county
issues presented before the board. Neither the advisory board nor any individual
member shall disseminate confidential information received during advisory board
meetings.
3. Advisory board members may be required to sign confidentiality statements as
necessary and will be removed from the advisory board upon violation of the
confidentiality agreement.
SECTION VI.
MEETINGS
A. Regular Meetings
1. All meetings are to be open to the public as required by the applicable North Carolina
General Statutes.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
8
Attachment A
12
2. Unless otherwise specified, public meetings will follow the standard rules of
procedure defined by the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
3. The Board of Commissioners of Orange County or the Orange County Manager may
authorize any or all advisory boards to meet remotely, as needed, pursuant to the
remote meeting rules set out herein.
4. The advisory board members shall determine the date, time, and place for each
meeting, consistent with the guidelines below.
a. Regular advisory board and subcommittee meetings.
1. The advisory board convenes upon call of the Chair and meets on
schedule as established by the specific advisory board policy.
2. Subcommittee meeting dates shall be set by the subcommittee Chairs
and shall be scheduled in conjunction with advisory board meetings.
3. A schedule of all meeting dates, times, and places shall be properly
posted in accordance with North Carolina Law and delivered to the
Clerk to the Board.
B. Special Meetings
1. A majority of advisory board members or the Chair may call special meetings at any
time for any specific business. Special meetings shall be convened at a location
selected by the Chair.
2. All called special meetings shall be noticed in accordance with North Carolina Law and
delivered to the Clerk to the Board.
C. Emergency Meetings
1. A majority of advisory board members or the Chair may call a meeting in emergency
circumstances by providing telephone notice to media outlets at least one hour prior
to the meeting.
2. An emergency situation includes a disaster that severely impairs the public’s health
or safety. In the event telephone services are not working, notice that the meeting
occurred must be given as soon as possible after the meeting in accordance with
North Carolina Law and by delivery to the Clerk to the Board.
D. Remote meetings
1. Advisory boards subject to this policy may meet remotely as authorized by the County
Manager, except the Orange County Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Board of
Equalization and Review, and Animal Services Hearing Panel.
2. A remote meeting is an official meeting, or any part thereof, with a majority or all of
the members of the advisory board participating by simultaneous communication.
a. Simultaneous communication is any communication by conference
telephone, conference video, or other electronic means.
3. Advisory Boards shall coordinate with the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners to
notify the public of the means by which the public may access the remote meetings.
4. If at any time during a remote meeting the number of members needed for a quorum
is disrupted by a loss of simultaneous communication, the meeting will not continue
until simultaneous communication is restored and if simultaneous communication
cannot be restored, the meeting will be adjourned without further action.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
9
Attachment A
13
E. Notice of Meetings Generally
1. Notice of advisory board meetings, including public hearings and appeals if applicable,
and agendas shall be made available to all members and interested parties, and to
any person who requests such notice, at least seven (7) days in advance of the
meeting by e-mail and by posting on the Orange County government website.
2. All applicable notice requirements established by North Carolina law shall be
followed.
3. Prior to January 5th of each calendar year, advisory boards shall submit their meeting
schedules to the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for posting to a readily
accessible location.
F. Agendas
1. Board members and/or staff members shall submit agenda items to the Chair and
staff for consideration at least fifteen (15) days prior to a scheduled meeting.
2. The agenda must provide a description of each item of business to be transacted or
discussed so that interested members of the public will be capable of understanding
the nature of each agenda item.
3. As a general rule, only those items appearing on the agenda will be discussed or voted
on. However, if an item is raised by a member of the public, the advisory board may
accept public comment and discuss the item so long as no action is taken until a
subsequent meeting.
4. With the Chair’s agreement, the designated staff will develop and distribute to each
member an agenda listing the matters to be considered at upcoming advisory board
meetings. Also, so far as practicable, copies of all written reports that are to be
presented to the advisory board for members’ review will be included in this package
at least ten (10) days before the meeting.
5. All recommendations and reports of the advisory board, approved in the form of
motions, shall be conveyed exclusively to the Orange County Board of Commissioners
for consideration, approval or denial. Outcomes are reported back to the advisory
board.
G. Minutes
1. Minutes shall be taken of all advisory board meetings and submitted to the Clerk to
the Board of Orange County Commissioners for retention and distribution to the
Orange County Board of Commissioners.
SECTION VII.
SUBCOMMITTEES
A. Purpose and Formation
1. Subcommittees may be formed by the advisory board to research and make special
recommendations on special issues or areas in order to carry out the duties of the
advisory board.
2. All subcommittees shall be reviewed by the appointing body on an annual basis to
determine continued need and realignment with the priorities of the advisory board.
3. Approved subcommittees must have documented goals, deliverables, and a timeline.
The subcommittee will cease to meet when these are satisfied.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
10
Attachment A
14
4. The advisory board Chair may request that the Orange County Board of
Commissioners change the structure and/or operating procedures of the advisory
board if he or she deems it essential for improving the board’s productivity and
effectiveness.
5. A subcommittee can be formed with the approval of the advisory board chair and a
majority vote of the advisory board.
6. Subcommittees shall operate as directed by the advisory board.
B. Procedure and Membership
1. A member of the subcommittee shall take responsibility for taking minutes of
subcommittee meetings and shall report to the advisory board the subcommittee’s
progress toward its stated objectives, including dissenting viewpoints.
2. Subcommittees shall operate by majority vote.
3. Subcommittees may request that a technical representative be approved by the
County Manager.
4. Subcommittees shall operate openly as defined by applicable North Carolina State
law and local ordinances and policies.
5. Membership on subcommittees shall be voluntary unless the specific advisory board
policy dictates otherwise.
SECTION VIII.
QUORUM AND VOTING
A. Quorum
1. A quorum for a meeting of an advisory board and any subcommittee thereof shall
consist of a majority of the number of appointed members. Vacant positions are not
counted when determining if a quorum is present.
2. Members who remotely attend a meeting may be counted present for purposes of a
quorum.
B. Voting
1. Unless otherwise required by law, all decisions shall be reached by a simple majority
vote.
2. All voting will be conducted in open meetings, except when in closed session where
such closed session is permitted by North Carolina law.
3. No issues can be voted upon unless a quorum is present.
4. Only appointed members can vote at advisory board meetings.
5. Appointed members shall not delegate their vote to another member.
6. The Chair of the advisory board may participate and vote on all issues.
7. Voting by proxy is not authorized and shall not be allowed.
8. Members may not abstain from voting, but where a member has a conflict of interest,
the member may be excused by a majority vote of the advisory board.
9. Members of advisory boards must be present to vote. Presence may be accomplished
through remote attendance or physical attendance.
10. Individuals appointed as ex officio members of the advisory board are not authorized
to vote on any issue before the advisory board.
SECTION IX.
ETHICS
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
11
Attachment A
15
A. This section also applies to the Board of Adjustment, Board of Equalization and Review, and
Animal Services Hearing Panel.
B. Conflict of Interest
1. During advisory board meetings, a member shall immediately disclose any potential
conflict of interest and request to be excused from voting when he or she has a
conflict of interest.
2. During appeal proceedings, the applicant has the right to question the interest of any
voting member. The advisory board chair should consult with the County Attorney or
staff attorney on any potential conflict of interest in appeal matters.
3. In determining from existing facts and circumstances whether a conflict of interest
exists, the determining party shall consider the facts and circumstances as would an
ordinary and reasonable person exercising prudence, discretion, intelligence, and due
care.
C. Gifts
1. An advisory board member shall not directly or indirectly ask, accept, demand, exact,
solicit, seek, assign, receive, or agree to receive any gift or honorarium for the
advisory board member, or for another person, in return for being influenced in the
discharge of the advisory board member’s official responsibilities.
2. This section shall not apply to gifts or awards authorized by Orange County Policies,
Resolutions, or Ordinances.
D. Code of Ethics
1. Advisory board members should act with integrity and with independence from
improper influence as they exercise the functions of their offices. Characteristics and
behaviors that are consistent with this standard are:
a. Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
b. Behaving consistently and with respect towards everyone with whom they
interact.
c. Exhibiting trustworthiness.
d. Living as if they are on duty as appointed officials regardless of where they
are or what they are doing.
e. Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they
see it, presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent
manner.
f. Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and not subject to improper
influence, while at the same time being able to consider the opinions and
ideas of others.
g. Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of
public meetings and refraining from seeking or receiving information about
quasi-judicial matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
h. Treating other advisory boards and advisory board members and the public
with respect and honoring the opinions of others even when they disagree.
i. Being careful not to reach conclusions on issues until all sides have been
heard.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
12
Attachment A
16
j. Showing respect for their appointed office and not behaving in ways that
reflect badly on the office, the advisory board, Orange County, or the Orange
County Board of Commissioners.
k. Recognizing that they are part of a larger group and acting accordingly.
l. Recognizing that individual board members are not generally allowed to act
on behalf of the board but may only do so if the board specifically so
authorizes, and that the board must take official action as a body.
m. Being faithful in the performance of the duties of their offices.
n. Acting as especially responsible residents whom others can trust and respect.
o. Faithfully attending and preparing for meetings.
p. Carefully analyzing all credible information that is properly submitted to
them, and when applicable, being mindful of the need to not engage in
communications outside the meeting in quasi-judicial matters.
q. Being willing to bear their fair share of the board’s workload.
r. To the extent appropriate, they should be willing to put the board’s interests
ahead of their own and shall avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest
and shall, under no circumstances, use their position on any board for
personal gain or profit.
2. Members of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Economic Development
Commission, and Board of Equalization and Review shall, upon initial appointment,
and prior to December 31 annually thereafter, disclose:
a. Any interest he or she or his or her spouse or domestic partner has in real
property situated in whole or in part in Orange County and the general
description of that property.
b. Any legal, equitable, beneficial or contractual interest he or she or his or her
spouse or domestic partner has in any business, firm or corporation, which is
currently doing business with Orange County pursuant to contracts awarded
by Orange County, or which is attempting, or has attempted in the past
calendar year, to secure the award of a bid from Orange County or the
approval of any Board or Agency of Orange County.
c. Failure to file a disclosure statement setting out the above required
information shall result in immediate removal of the member from the
applicable board.
SECTION X.
COMPENSATION AND TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT
A. Compensation
1. As a general rule, advisory board service is voluntary, and appointed members shall
receive no form of compensation for their services.
2. However, should the Orange County Board of Commissioners determine, in its sole
discretion, that an advisory board’s members should be compensated, such
compensation shall be addressed in that advisory board’s specific policy and rules of
procedure as adopted by the Commissioners.
B. Travel Expense Reimbursement
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
13
Attachment A
17
1. The Chair shall, to the extent practicable, schedule all hearings and advisory board
meetings to minimize travel and per diem costs.
2. Payment of expenses to advisory board members shall occur only when travel has
been approved by the County Manager prior to the time the expenses are incurred.
3. Orange County shall reimburse reasonable and necessary travel and incidental
business expenses from pre-approved travel to advisory board members
4. Advisory board members shall be reimbursed in accordance with current local and/or
state rules and regulations. Expense claims shall be submitted as required pursuant
to the Orange County travel policy.
5. Transportation expense claims shall include charges essential for transportation to
and from the meeting place. Reimbursement shall be made only for the local
government’s standard mileage allowance. Travel should be via the shortest, most
commonly traveled route.
6. Travel expenses do not include hotel/motel expenses.
SECTION XI.
LIMITATION OF POWER AND AUTHORITY
A. Nothing contained in this Advisory Board Policy shall be construed to conflict with any North
Carolina law or Orange County ordinance. Should there be an appearance of conflict, the
appropriate North Carolina law or Orange County ordinance shall prevail.
B. The activities of the advisory board shall, at all times, be conducted in accord with applicable
Federal law, North Carolina law, and Orange County ordinances.
C. Advisory Boards, the Board of Adjustment, Board of Equalization and Review, and Animal
Services Hearing Panel, and any members thereof shall not (and shall not have the express or
implied authority to):
1. Incur expenses or obligate Orange County in any manner.
a. Any expense incurred must have been pre-approved either through the
department director overseeing the advisory board’s budget, the Orange
County Board of Commissioners, or the County Manager.
b. It is specifically acknowledged that no member of an advisory board has the
authority, express or implied, to, contractually or otherwise, bind Orange
County.
2. Identify or release any draft document that has not been approved for release by the
Orange County Board of Commissioners or County Manager.
3. Take positions, in their capacity as an advisory board member, on any political issue
or support or oppose any candidate for public office.
4. Independently investigate resident complaints against Orange County, any
department, or any employee of a department.
5. Conduct any activity that might constitute or be construed as an official governmental
review of departmental or employee actions.
6. Conduct any activity that might constitute or be construed as the establishment of
Orange County or departmental policy.
7. Violate the confidentiality of any information related to matters involving pending or
forthcoming civil or criminal litigation.
8. Engage in any act to impose or attempt to impose discipline on any advisory board
member, department, or employee.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
14
Attachment A
18
9. Interfere, attempt to interfere, or involve themselves in any way in staff personnel
matters, regardless of the nature of the matter.
Adopted 2-21 12; Dates of Amendment 8-21-12; 11-8-12; 3-3-15; 6-18-19; 6-2-20; 10-6-20; 4-5-22; 6-21-22; 12-5-22; 3-18-25; 5-6-25; 2-17-26.
15
Attachment B
Discussion on
Advisory Board Policy &
Attendance Requirements
Work Session
October 13, 2026
19
Advisory Boards
• Created by the Board of County
Commissioners
• Develop short- and long-term goals and
make recommendations
• No decision-making authority
20
21
Subject to the Advisory Board Policy
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Adult Care Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
Advisory Board on Aging
Affordable Housing Advisory Board
Agricultural Preservation Board
Animal Services Advisory Board
Arts Commission
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Commission for the Environment
Economic Development Advisory Board
Historic Preservation Commission
Human Relations Commission
Opioid Advisory Committee
Orange County Planning Board
Orange Unified Transportation Board
Parks and Recreation Council
NOT Subject to the Advisory Board
Policy
• Quasi-Judicial Boards
– Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
– Board of Equalization and Review
– Orange County Board of Adjustment
• Autonomous Boards
– Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
– Board of Health
– Board of Social Services
– Jury Commission
– Orange County Housing Authority Board
22
NOT Subject to the Advisory Board
Policy, continued
• Local and Regional Boards
– Alliance Health Board of Directors
– Carrboro Board of Adjustment
– Carrboro Northern Transition Area Advisory Committee
– Carrboro Planning Board
– Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment
– Chapel Hill Planning Commission
– Durham Technical Community College Board of Trustees
– Hillsborough Board of Adjustment
– Hillsborough Planning Board
– Mebane Board of Adjustment
– Mebane Planning Board
– Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors
23
Attendance Requirements
24
H. Removal
1. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards serve at the pleasure of the Orange
County Board of Commissioners and may be removed for any reason or no reason,
with or without cause, upon a majority vote.
2. Members of Orange County’s advisory boards are expected to abide by the highest
ethical and professional standards.
3. In addition to Section III(H)(1) above, the Orange County Board of Commissioners
will remove any member of an advisory board for neglect of duty or nonparticipation.
Neglect of duty and nonparticipation are defined as follows:
a. Missing three (3) consecutive meetings; or
b. Missing twenty-five percent (25%) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
4. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify a member if the member is at risk
of being removed pursuant to section III(H)(3) after missing two (2) consecutive
meetings or missing two (2) of the past twelve (12) meetings.
5. The advisory board Chair or staff liaison shall notify the Clerk to the Board of Orange
County Commissioners if a member has violated section III(H)(3).
Advisory Board Policy (last revised February 17, 2026)
Topics of Feedback
25
• Allow absences for “valid” reasons
• Increase the number of allowed absences
or redefine involvement in another way
• Address rescheduled regular meetings
Topics of Feedback – Allow Absences
for “Valid” Reasons
26
• Define “excused absences”
– Would not count against a member
Topics of Feedback – Increase the
Number of Allowed Absences or
Redefine Involvement
27
• Increase the total number of allowed
absences
• Involvement in activities and work outside
of regular meetings not accounted for
– E.g., Adult Care Home & Nursing Home
Community Advisory Committee
28
Topics of Feedback – Rescheduled
Regular Meetings
• Should missing a meeting that was
rescheduled from the original meeting date
count against a member?
29
Points for Clarification – Clerk’s Office
• How to track attendance for appointees
representing other organizations or
governments?
• How to track attendance for alternates,
non-voting youth delegates, and ex officio
members?
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
5
SUBJECT: Discussion on Appointment Procedures for Quasi-Judicial Boards
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - Quasi-Judicial
Appointment Procedures
Survey Results
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2130
PURPOSE: To discuss the Board’s current procedures for making appointments to quasi-judicial
boards and provide direction to staff on implementing any changes.
BACKGROUND: Generally, quasi-judicial boards make findings of fact and conclusions of law in
handling issues pursuant to the Orange County Code of Ordinances. These bodies must find facts
and base their decisions upon the application of the ordinance standards/criteria and the
competent, substantial, and material evidence received during a hearing. Decisions made by
these boards are subject to review/appeal in court.
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) makes appointments to quasi-judicial boards,
including the Board of Equalization and Review and the Orange County Board of Adjustment. The
Board of Equalization and Review is authorized by and subject to North Carolina General Statute
105-322. The Orange County Board of Adjustment is authorized by and subject to North Carolina
General Statute 160D. The Board also appoints a pool of residents from which a panel can be
formed to hear appeals as provided in Chapter 4 of the Orange County Code of Ordinances and
to hear appeals as prescribed by North Carolina General Statute 67-4.1(c). The pool is referred
to as the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool.
Currently, the Board maintains the same procedures for all appointments. Anyone interested in
serving may complete an application online. The Clerk’s Office confirms applicants’ eligibility and,
when a vacancy occurs, brings all applications to the Board during a work session for review and
consideration. If the Board reaches consensus on an individual to appoint based on the
information provided on the application, the appointment is formally approved at a subsequent
Business meeting.
In Spring 2026, Board Chair Jean Hamilton expressed an interest in comparing the County’s
current appointment procedures for quasi-judicial boards to those practiced in other jurisdictions.
In response, the Clerk’s Office surveyed Clerks across the state. The survey asked the following
questions:
2
1. What jurisdiction are you responding on behalf of?
2. Does your jurisdiction use the same application questions for all boards, including quasijudicial boards?
3. Does your jurisdiction have any specific appointment procedures for quasi-judicial boards
that differ from other appointed boards?
4. If you answered yes to question #3, please explain what appointment procedures your
jurisdiction has that are unique to quasi-judicial boards.
5. Does your jurisdiction hold interviews for applicants to quasi-judicial boards?
6. Does your jurisdiction have any other procedures specific to quasi-judicial boards that are
not done for other appointed boards?
7. If you answered yes to question #6, please explain what procedures your jurisdiction has
that are unique to quasi-judicial boards.
Responses were received from eight (8) towns and three (3) counties. Survey results are included
as Attachment A.
The majority of respondents use the same application questions for all boards, including quasijudicial boards. Most jurisdictions that responded did not have any specific appointment
procedures for quasi-judicial boards that differ from other appointed boards. For those that did,
the jurisdictions indicated that a subcommittee of the appointing board (town council or county
commissioners) conducts interviews with applicants for quasi-judicial boards before appointment.
The majority of respondents did not indicate they hold interviews, but three (3) jurisdictions do. All
but one (1) jurisdiction indicated that they do not have any other procedures specific to quasijudicial boards that are not done for other appointed boards. One (1) jurisdiction indicated that
they require a separate orientation session for their quasi-judicial board.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS
We provide information and opportunities for engagement in a transparent manner so that
all in our community have knowledge, understanding, and a voice.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss its current
procedures for making appointments to quasi-judicial boards and provide direction to staff on
implementing any changes.
3
Attachment A
Quasi-Judicial Appointment Procedures Survey Results
1. What jurisdiction are you responding on
behalf of?
2. Does your jurisdiction use the same
application questions for all boards, including
quasi-judicial boards?
3. Does your jurisdiction have any specific
appointment procedures for quasi-judicial
boards that differ from other appointed
boards?
Town of Apex
Yes
Yes
Town of Archer Lodge
Town of Holly Springs
Yes
No
No
No
New Bern
Yes
No
Town of Zebulon
Yes
same questions but add board specific
questions
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Mecklenburg County
Carteret County
City of Goldsboro
City of Raeford
Davidson County
Town of Chapel Hill
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
4. If you answered yes to question #3, please
explain what appointment procedures your
jurisdiction has that are unique to quasijudicial boards.
5. Does your jurisdiction hold interviews for
applicants to quasi-judicial boards?
The Board of Adjustment (BOA) is the only
Board that conducts quasi-judicial
proceedings for the Town of Apex. We have
five (5) regular members and (3) alternates.
All appointees first serve on as an alternate
before serving as a regular members. Only
regular members are allowed to vote (unless
an alternate is filing in for a regular member
Yes
who is absent). Our Council has requested
that BOA nominees be interviewed prior to
being considered for appointment. This
would require the Council to establish a nonstanding interview committee for the purpose
of conducting these interviews and a
recommendation would come to the fill
council following those interviews.
6. Does your jurisdiction have any other
7. If you answered yes to question #6, please
procedures specific to quasi-judicial boards
explain what procedures your jurisdiction has
that are not done for other appointed
that are unique to quasi-judicial boards.
boards?
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes; applicants are routinely interviewed over
the phone by the elected official considering No
them for the appt.
Yes
No
conduct interviews and have a ex officio staff
Yes
member in the interviews
No
No
No
No
Yes, the Council only interviews applicants
for the OWASA board, but does not appoint
to that board. The Council does not interview
any remaining QJ boards, but receives board
recommendation of appointments. The Town
No
accepts applications for EZ Rider Advisory
Committee and Criminal Justice Debt
Program Advisory Committee which directly
appoint their new members. Our Council
does not make these appointments.
No
No
No
No
No
No
We have a required orientation session that
is separate for our Board of Adjustment from
our other advisory boards.
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
6
SUBJECT: Human Relations Commission – Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Recommendations
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Applications for Persons Recommended
Application of Other Applicant
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2125
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Human Relations Commission.
BACKGROUND: The Human Relations Commission studies and makes recommendations to
the Board of County Commissioners concerning problems in the field of human relationships.
This commission seeks solutions to community issues that may create animosity and unrest,
makes recommendations designed to promote goodwill and harmony among groups in the
county, and addresses and attempts to remedy the violence, tensions, polarization, and other
harm created through discrimination, bias, hatred, and inequity.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all twelve (12) members.
The following applicants are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME
POSITION
DESCRIPTION
Immanuel
Wright
Saru Salvi
Rhian
Carreker-Ford
Town of Carrboro
Daniel Best
At-Large
At-Large
(move from Town of
Chapel Hill position)
Town of Chapel Hill
TYPE OF
APPOINTMENT
TERM
Partial Term
EXPIRATION
DATE
Partial Term
First Full Term
06/30/2028
06/30/2029
Partial Term
06/30/2028
06/30/2028
If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancies remain:
2
POSITION
DESIGNATION
At-Large
Town of
Hillsborough
EXPIRATION
DATE
06/30/2029
06/30/2029
VACANCY INFORMATION
Vacant since 09/22/2026
Vacant since 06/30/2026
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards
needed to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Human Relations Commission.
3
September 3, 2026
The Respectable Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of County Commissioners
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Board New Appointments
The Orange County Human Relations Commission (HRC) recommends Immanuel Wright
fill position #7, Saru Salvi to fill position #8; move Rhian Carreker-Ford from position #11 to
position #12, and appoint Daniel Best to fill position #11.
All applicants bring valued perspectives based on their lived experiences and professional
expertise.
Paul Slack
Paul Slack,
Chief Civil Rights Officer
Office of Civil Rights and Civic Life
Orange County Office of Civil Rights & Civic Life | P.O. Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
[email protected] | (919) 245-2594 | www.orangecountync.gov/civilrights
4
Name
Andrew Drain
Dr. Cory Hogans
Tonya Jones
Brandon Loor Intriago
Shane Lukas
Wendy Calvin
Rhian Carreker-Ford
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
Daniel Best
Member or Applicant?
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Human Relations Commission Members and Applicants
Gender Identity
Race/Ethnic Background
Age Range
Male
White
35-59
Male
African American
35-59
Female
African American
35-59
Male
Hispanic
18-34
Male
White
35-59
Female
Other
35-59
Male
African American
35-59
Township
Chapel Hill
Hillsborough
Cheeks
Chapel Hill
Eno
Cheeks
Chapel Hill
Applicant
Male
White
35-59
Chapel Hill
Mary Lucas
Saru Salvi
Immanuel Wright
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Female
Female
Male
White
African American
Hispanic
35-59
60+
18-34
Hillsborough
Hillsborough
Chapel Hill
Also Serves on
Advisory Board on Aging
Animal Services Advisory Board
Board of Equalization and Review
5
Page 1 of 2
Immanuel Wright
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Immanuel Wright
Phone:
140 BPW Club Rd.
Apt. D3
Carrboro NC 27510
984-309-8779
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2025
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Carrboro City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
Hispanic
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
None at the moment.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Human Relations Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I graduated from the University of Michigan-Flint with my BA in anthropology and went on to
work at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in the department of Diversity and Inclusion for
Michigan Housing. My duties there varied, but my main role was to serve as part of the campus
climate team, where we worked to prevent and address harm in our 13 residential communities
housing over 15,000 students. I feel that this work has taught me to communicate effectively
with both the impacted parties and the parties that have done the impacting to identify a plan to
move forward. In this role I also supervised student staff and their event planning processes,
wrote detailed reports that reflected campus climate data, and designed marketing materials for
our department. I hope that there is some way that I can leverage these skills through
involvement with the commission.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
As a queer person of color, I have a great amount of interest in improving conditions for
members of communities that have been systematically disenfranchised. I would like to assist
the commission in its advocacy for the elimination of discrimination in its many forms. I also
recently moved to the area from Michigan and would like to be an engaged citizen in my new
home. When I was living in Flint, Michigan, I would frequently volunteer at community events for
the Latinx Technology and Community center and even spent a summer teaching a Youth
Leadership Academy for them. I would like to continue to have a positive impact on my
community and hope to do that through involvement with the commission.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
6
Page 2 of 2
Immanuel Wright
I would bring the perspective of someone who is new to this community but not new to this work.
I moved here recently from Michigan, and I think there is value in having a voice on the
commission that is still seeing this area with fresh eyes. Studying anthropology taught me to
understand a community on its own terms rather than through assumptions about what it needs,
and my campus climate work put me in the middle of situations where people were looking at
the same set of facts and reaching very different conclusions. I think that being able to sit in that
tension with both parties and still attempt to identify common ground is a useful instinct for the
commission as it weighs competing concerns. All of these experiences inform how I read
policies or complaints, and I would offer that lens while remaining open to perspectives that differ
from my own.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/18/2026 8:38:12 AM
Date Printed:
8/24/2026
7
Page 1 of 3
Saru Salvi
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Saru Salvi
Phone:
506 Silver Fox Cir.
Hillsborough NC 27278
919-259-3323
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2004
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Hillsborough ETJ
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
African American
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange County Master Gardener
Gardening Association of North Carolina
Board of Equalization and Review (BOER)
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
OC Affordable Housing Board (past), Advisory Board on Aging (past), Hillsborough
Planning Board (past), BOER (current)
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Social Services
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
With an MBA and an MS, I offer the background and experience necessary to consult with the
Director on fiscal matters while ensuring that resources are used effectively to improve social
conditions. Furthermore, my experience on the Board of Equalization and Review has refined my
ability to provide fair, objective advice to the County and municipalities.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I care deeply about our community and find great fulfillment in direct public service. My
experience on the Board of Equalization and Review has shown me the value of fair, transparent
governance, and I hope to offer my background in finance and regulatory affairs as a helpful
resource for our county s budgeting and advisory needs. It is important to work collaboratively
with the Director and the board to solve problems and support the well-being of all our neighbors.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
With a background in finance and regulatory affairs, I look at challenges, when necessary,
through an analytical, data-driven lens, which can be useful when consulting on budgets and
complex problem-solving. At the same time, I understand the importance of listening to diverse
voices and ensuring that our local policies are fair and accessible to everyone. I successfully use
these methods for the Board of Equalization and Review.
8
Page 2 of 3
Saru Salvi
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Human Relations Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Community involvement is incredibly important to me, which is why I've dedicated my time to
several local organizations. Serving as a member of BOER has allowed me to put my listening
skills to work, ensuring that I truly understand the financial stress that property taxes can place
on our Orange County homeowners, while carefully fulfilling our duty to follow the regulations set
by the State Legislature.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
It would give me an opportunity to help Orange County citizens to be heard.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Having lived through the realities of being on welfare, a single mother raising two children, and
moving through blue-collar, middle-class, and upper-middle-class experiences, I bring a deeply
well-rounded perspective to my community work. I understand the varied financial and personal
realities that families face because I have lived them.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Advisory Board on Aging
Application Date: 6/8/2022
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I hold an MBA and an MS, Regulatory Affairs, and have managed project budgeting. When
working, I was required to budget large multi-facet clinical trials for our department to assure that
all elements were accounted for. For example, a cancer study requir
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I enjoy sharing knowledge of resources and helping to make people s live a little easier. I just
shared information about the VA Elder Care Program, so now her parents are going to receive
an addition $1,800 a month. Very helpful since my friend was payin
Conflict of Interest:
Hillsborough Planning Board (Hillsborough ETJ residents only)
Application Date: 9/28/2021
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have been leaving in the Hillsborough extraterritorial Jurisdiction area since 2004. I have
served as President of a HOA in Oceanside CA with more than 350 homes, dealing with the subdivisions growth, enforcement and budgeting.
I have an MBA in fin
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
As I move into retirement, which is planned for January 2021, I will have to time to dedicate to
community activities.
Conflict of Interest:
9
Page 3 of 3
Saru Salvi
Board of Equalization and Review
Application Date: 6/8/2022
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I hold an MBA, and have personally experienced an evaluation appeal.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
There are so many people who own and live in homes for years if not generations. The rapid rise
in property values is driving up property taxes.
Conflict of Interest:
Affordable Housing Advisory Board
Application Date: 10/12/2020
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
990744288
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
At one time I lived in public housing and received government housing assistance.
Conflict of Interest:
I understand the need for affordable housing. It can be very difficult to find, especially in an
expensive area.
I also understand the concerns of neighborhood people who are afraid to have lower income
populations around them. Having experienced gove
Other Comments:
Reactivated application for the Planning Board and applied for the Board of Adjustment
and Board of Social Services on 3/18/2026 1:40:00 PM; also withdrew application for
Economic Development Advisory Board at the same time. Applied for the Human
Relations Commission 7/20/2026 9:04:04 AM. Withdrew applications for the BOA and PB
at the same time.
This application was current on: 7/20/2026 9:04:04 AM
Date Printed:
7/23/2026
10
Page 1 of 2
Rhian Carreker-Ford
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Rhian Carreker-Ford
Phone:
416 Melanie Ct.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
510-910-8064
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2019
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
African American
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Community Activities:
Currently trying to build up a Chapel Hill CERT program.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Human Relations Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have a masters in public policy from Duke and a masters of Business administration from UNC.
I have an interest in public service and currently work as a consultant that is aligned to public
service.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have lived in Chapel Hill for a number of years and want to be more active in the community. A
few years ago there was a petition regarding the Booker Creek trail and I was able to not only
sign the position but attend community meetings regarding the future of said trail. Being able to
participate in the Civic process was I opening and I want to be able to give back to the
community and when I live.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I don t know of the current makeup of the board, but I bring a unique viewpoint that recognizes
otherness as a daily struggle and work to make equity and justice centered approaches the
dominant version.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
11
Page 2 of 2
Rhian Carreker-Ford
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 9/29/2023 1:42:24 PM
Date Printed:
10/4/2023
12
Page 1 of 3
Daniel Best
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Daniel Best
Phone:
1301 Fordham Blvd.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
936-779-9194
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2026
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I bring more than two decades of leadership, operations, planning, and organizational
management experience from my service in the United States Marine Corps, along with
professional experience in higher education operations at Durham Technical Community
College. My background includes facilities coordination, resource management, risk
assessment, process improvement, personnel leadership, and working across diverse
stakeholder groups to solve complex problems.
I am especially interested in thoughtful community planning, responsible growth, public
safety, accessibility, transportation, and the design of spaces that are functional,
welcoming, and sustainable over time. I am comfortable reviewing detailed information,
asking practical questions, and considering both immediate needs and long-term impacts.
I would bring a disciplined, collaborative, and service-oriented approach to the work of
any board.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Planning Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My background includes operations, facilities, planning, resource management, risk
assessment, and leadership in complex organizations. I also bring an MBA and higher education
operations experience, which help me evaluate decisions through the lens of implementation,
long-term use, safety, access, and community impact.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to serve because Orange County is making important decisions about growth, land use,
housing, transportation, and infrastructure. I would like to contribute to thoughtful planning that
balances responsible growth, community character, and the practical needs of residents.
13
Page 2 of 3
Daniel Best
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring the perspective of a veteran, parent, public servant, higher education professional,
and relatively new Chapel Hill resident. My approach is practical and service-minded, with a
focus on listening to different viewpoints and helping make decisions that serve the broader
community.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Human Relations Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My experience includes leading diverse teams, mentoring people, resolving conflict, and building
trust across different backgrounds and viewpoints. I have learned that strong communities
depend on fairness, respect, communication, and leaders who are willing to listen before making
decisions.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to serve because human relations are central to public trust and community strength. I am
interested in supporting work that helps residents feel heard, respected, and connected to the
community they live in.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring the perspective of someone who values both accountability and compassion. My
background has taught me how to work with people who may see issues differently while still
finding shared goals and practical ways forward.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Parks and Recreation Council
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My background includes physical readiness, program planning, facilities use, risk management,
and leading activities that support health, teamwork, and community connection. I also have a
strong personal interest in fitness, youth development, outdoor spaces, and the role recreation
plays in quality of life.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to serve because parks, trails, and recreation programs help families, children, and
residents build healthier and more connected lives. I am especially interested in supporting
spaces and programs that are safe, accessible, well-maintained, and responsive to the
community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring the perspective of a parent, fitness-minded resident, veteran, and public-service
professional. My focus would be on families, wellness, safe public spaces, and responsible
stewardship of resources that benefit residents across the county.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
14
Page 3 of 3
This application was current on: 7/15/2026 4:23:00 PM
Daniel Best
Date Printed:
7/17/2026
15
Page 1 of 3
Mary Lucas
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Mary Lucas
Phone:
404 Lakeshore Drive
hillsborough NC 27278
919-720-0361
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2024
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Hillsborough Town Limits
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I previously served on both the Humans Relations Commission and Community
Engagement Boards for the City of Raleigh. I recently moved to Hillsborough and would
like to be more involved. My family is from the area, generations back, and I am very
invested in community engagement as a resident. Currently I serve on the Board for
Neshama Animal Rescue; volunteer at UNC Hillsborough Hospital as a pet therapy team;
host a weekly radio show and podcast to provide resources and information for the aging
community (WPTF FM/AM); am a member of Triangle Healthcare Executives Forum; and
previously volunteered on board committee at Habitat for Humanity. My professional work
is Vice President at a nonprofit hospice and palliative care organization that serves our
community, and it s my passion to ensure that all who need our services are able to
access them.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A but would be interested in this board, Advisory Board on Aging, or Animal Services
Advisory - all of which apply to my volunteer work and professional background.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Advisory Board on Aging
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
With a strong background in healthcare leadership for the aging population (hospice, palliative
care, caregiver support), strategic planning, and a proven track record of developing impactful
solutions for diverse populations through grants in our community, I believe my experiences will
provide a valuable asset to the Aging Advisory Board. I also currently host a weekly radio
show/podcast called Aging Matters that helps our aging population find information and
resources in the community. I interview organizations such as Snow Approach, our local health
systems, researchers and more! Additionally, I have my Masters from Johns Hopkins in
Healthcare Management and have focused my research and career in health care equity with
specific focus on caregiver support and health advocacy for the aging.
16
Page 2 of 3
Mary Lucas
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
The aging population has been my focus in my professional and personal life for years. I am very
involved in many different segments of the industry and work tirelessly to support organizations
across our community that advocate for the aging.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Working in healthcare offers a unique and valuable perspective to the Advisory Board on Aging
by providing firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities within the aging population.
Healthcare professionals interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds, enabling them to
understand the varied needs and preferences of older adults, including those related to access
to care, chronic disease management, mental health, and social determinants of health. This
experience fosters an understanding of the intersection between health, socioeconomic factors,
and aging, ensuring that policies and solutions are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the
diverse needs of older adults.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I'm not sure if conflict - but I do work at a nonprofit hospice/palliative care organization. I also
host a radioshow/podcast for the aging population (Aging Matters - WPTF)
Human Relations Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have served on the City of Raleigh Human Relations Commission (two terms and once as cochair), and Community Engagement Board. I was very involved when living there and would
welcome the opportunity to serve in Orange County as well.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Working directly with individuals from varied backgrounds has given me valuable insight into how
social determinants of health, access to services, and cultural differences shape people s
experiences. I believe this perspective would contribute meaningfully to the Human Relations
Commission, helping to promote equity, inclusion, and positive relationships within the
community by advocating for policies that address the varied needs of all residents, particularly
underserved and vulnerable populations.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I think I would continue to focus on reaching populations who are less involved - or not at all
involved - and meeting people where they are to engage them in the county conversations. This
was a huge focus for me in Raleigh.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I currently serve on the Board for a nonprofit dog/cat rescue, foster hospice/aging dogs, and am
a volunteer at UNC Hillsborough Hospital with my therapy dog - Waylon.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Animal rights and advocacy is a huge passion of mine! I work regularly with county shelters
across our state and am very familiar with the system.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
The rescue perspective on how we can work closer together to save more lives, relieve shelter
burdens as much as possible, and efficiently provide care to the county.
17
Page 3 of 3
Mary Lucas
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/5/2025 12:33:05 PM
Date Printed:
3/7/2025
18
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Human Relations Commission
Meeting Times: 6:00 pm Fourth Tuesday of every month
Contact Person: Paul Slack
Meeting Place: Varies
Contact Phone: 919-245-2497
Positions: 12
Description:
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
<div>The Human Relations Commission studies and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners
concerning problems in the field of human relationships. This commission seeks solutions to community issues that may
create animosity and unrest, makes recommendations designed to promote goodwill and harmony among groups in the
county, and addresses and attempts to remedy the violence, tensions, polarization, and other harm created through
discrimination, bias, hatred, and inequity. </div>
Andrew Drain
First Appointed:
1
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
35-59
Chapel Hill
At-Large
04/21/2026
Current Appointment: 04/21/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2027
Number of Terms:
Dr. Cory Hogans
First Appointed:
2
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
35-59
Hillsborough
At-Large
11/19/2024
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Expiration:
09/30/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
12/04/2023
Mrs. Tonya Jones
3
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Cheeks
At-Large
Current Appointment: 04/21/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
04/21/2026
Brandon Loor Intriago
4
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: Hispanic
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
18-34
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 04/21/2026
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
09/30/2028
1
VACANT
First Appointed:
5
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Current Appointment:
At-Large
Expiration:
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
Mr. Shane Lukas
First Appointed:
6
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Friday, October 2, 2026
Male
35-59
Eno
At-Large
11/19/2024
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
09/30/2028
1
Page 1
19
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Human Relations Commission
Meeting Times: 6:00 pm Fourth Tuesday of every month
Contact Person: Paul Slack
Meeting Place: Varies
Contact Phone: 919-245-2497
Positions: 12
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
VACANT
First Appointed:
7
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Carrboro City Limits
Expiration:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Carrboro
Number of Terms:
06/30/2028
VACANT
First Appointed:
8
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Current Appointment:
At-Large
Expiration:
06/30/2028
Number of Terms:
VACANT
First Appointed:
9
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Hillsborough
Expiration:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Hillsborough
Number of Terms:
06/30/2029
Ms. Wendy Calvin
First Appointed:
10
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: Other
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Cheeks
At-Large
04/15/2025
Current Appointment: 04/15/2025
Expiration:
09/30/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
12/04/2023
Mr. Rhian Carreker-Ford
11
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Chapel Hill
Number of Terms:
Gender Identity:
Male
35-59
Expiration:
06/30/2028
1
VACANT
First Appointed:
12
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Friday, October 2, 2026
Current Appointment:
At-Large
Expiration:
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
Page 2
20
Applicant Interest Listing
Human Relations Commission
by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Paul Slack
Contact Phone: 919-245-2497
Mr. Daniel Best
Gender Identity:
Male
Date Applied: 07/15/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range:
35-59
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Female
Date Applied: 03/05/2025
Also Serves On:
Ms. Mary Lucas
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
35-59
Also Serves On:
Advisory Board on Aging
Also Serves On:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Township: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits
Ms. Saru Salvi
Gender Identity:
Female
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range:
Also Serves On:
60+
Date Applied: 07/20/2026
Township: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Hillsborough ETJ
Board of Equalization and Review
Mr. Immanuel Wright
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: Hispanic
Age Range:
18-34
Date Applied: 08/18/2026
Township: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Friday, October 2, 2026
Page 1 of 1
21
ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN
Name of Board/Commission: Human relations Commission
Report Period: January 2025-December 2025
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all volunteers
on Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to complete an Annual
Report and Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the activities each
board/commission has conducted over the past year and detail a plan for future activities.
These activities should be consistent with the board/commission’s assigned charge and
the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan). General
information about the Strategic Plan is available here.
Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information: Rhian Carreker-Ford, HRC
Chair, [email protected], 510-910-8064
Primary staff contact: Paul Slack
1. How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and subcommittee meetings?
The Human Relations Commission (HRC) meets once per month. Any special or subcommittee meetings are scheduled on as as-needed basis.
2. Please briefly describe this board/commission’s assigned charge and
responsibilities. Board-specific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the
charge and responsibilities for each board/commission, are available here.
The Human Relations Commission is responsible for promoting mutual
understanding, respect and fair treatment among all people in Orange County. The
HRC advises the Board of County Commissioners on matters on human rights,
conducts events to raise awareness and collaborates with various community
stakeholders to address human rights concerns.
3. What are your board/commission’s most important accomplishments during the
report period?
22
In 2025, we made significant progress in strengthening community ties through
events and initiatives such as being a sponsor of the annual Mildred Council
Community Dinner as well as hosting the 35th annual Pauli Murray Awards. These
events continue to honor local activists and bridge gaps within our diverse
community.
4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually.
Pauli Murray Awards – Adult Award, Youth Award, Business Award
Mildred Council Community Dinner Sponsorship
5. Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out the
goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the
Strategic Plan is available here.
The Commission aligns its goals with the Board of County Commissioners guiding
principle of fostering community engagement and inclusivity. By organizing
community events like the Pauli Murray Awards and sponsoring the Mildred Council
Community Dinner, we create safe spaces for residents to connect and share their
experiences.
6. Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and
commissions.
No formal relationships established at this time. Planned for 2026.
7. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are
related to the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic
Plan is available here. If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
Community Conversations on Resilience (Feb. 2026)
Pauli Murray Awards 2026 (May 2026)
Housing Series (Jul. – Dec. 2026)
Blackwood Farms Memorial Community Event (Jul. 2026)
Youth Engagement Initiative (Winter - Spring 2026)
8. What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the
upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC’s attention?
Sentiment in the county regarding raids by government entities
Potential civil unrest
Affordability in Orange County – address with the housing series; natural disasters –
access to resources and build resilience within the community
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
7
SUBJECT: Animal Services Advisory Board – Appointment Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Recommendation
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Application of Person Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2125
PURPOSE: To discuss an appointment to the Animal Services Advisory Board.
BACKGROUND: The Animal Services Advisory Board advises the Board of County
Commissioners on matters of concern regarding animal issues and animal services in Orange
County and works with the Animal Services Director on various policy concerns and issues
regarding county animal services.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all thirteen (13) members with representation from
various related fields and municipalities.
The following individual is recommended for Board consideration:
NAME
POSITION
DESCRIPTION
Courtney
Meyer
Animal
Welfare/Advocacy
TYPE OF
APPOINTMENT
TERM
First Full Term
EXPIRATION
DATE
06/30/2029
NOTE: An appointee to this position must be a resident “whose experience demonstrates a
commitment to education around animal issues, legislative advocacy, and/or animal welfare (e.g.,
rescue work and organizations, service and support for Orange County residents with animals,
efforts to work with free-roaming or feral cats, volunteering at animal shelters).”
If the individual listed above is appointed, no vacancies remain.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
2
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss an appointment to
the Animal Services Advisory Board.
3 NC 27516
1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill,
919-942-7387 (PETS) | [email protected]
www.orangecountync.gov/animalservices
September 19, 2026
To:
Tara May, Deputy Clerk, Board of County Commissioners
From: Elizabeth Overcash, Director, Animal Services
Re:
Animal Services Advisory Board Recommendation for New Board Member
Hi Tara,
The Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) recommends that the Board of County
Commissioners appoint Courtney Meyer to the ASAB.
Ms. Meyer is recommended for appointment to POSITION #10, Animal Welfare/Animal
Advocacy.
Ms. Meyer has been a pet sitter with Rover since 2017 and has experience caring for a variety of
animals. She was a volunteer for Pug Rescue of Austin from October 2021 to December 2024,
assisting with managing adoption and foster applications. Her work with this organization
included communicating with potential fosters and adopters, conducting veterinarian checks and
reference checks, and assisting with animal placement in order to ensure the health and
wellbeing of the animals involved. Ms. Meyer’s experience demonstrates a commitment to
animal welfare that would qualify her for the Animal Welfare/Animal Advocacy position.
Please let me know if you need additional information.
Respectfully,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Overcash, CAWA
Animal Services Director
Orange County Animal Services
828-734-3851 (cell)
[email protected]
cc:
Laura Jensen, Clerk, Board of County Commissioners
Allan Polak, Chair, Animal Services Advisory Board
Debby Hill, Vice Chair, Animal Services Advisory Board
Christina Allen, Orange County Animal Services Business Officer
4
Name
Dr. Ann Brady
Dr. Ashley Robertson
Deborah Hill
Ellen Pearsall
Mary Lucas
Annie Goldberg
Rhonda Patterson
Angel Barnes
Michael Dempsey
Cathy Munnier
Allan Polak
Emily Feight
VACANT
Michelle Handy
Dr. Timothy Ives
Carla Julian
Patrick Mann
Courtney Meyer
Don Stephenson
Member or Applicant?
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Animal Services Advisory Board Members and Applicants
Gender Identity
Race/Ethnic Background
Age Range
Female
White
60+
Female
White
35-59
Female
White
35-59
Female
White
35-59
Female
White
35-59
Female
White
18-34
Female
Other
60+
Female
White
35-59
Male
White
60+
Female
White
60+
Male
White
35-59
Female
White
18-34
Township
Bingham
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Hillsborough
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Cedar Grove
Eno
Eno
Chapel Hill
Non-Resident
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Little River
Bingham
Cheeks
Cedar Grove
Eno
Chapel Hill
White
White
White
White
White
White
35-59
60+
60+
60+
35-59
35-59
Board of Health
Also Serves on
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Advisory Board on Aging
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Advisory Board on Aging
5
Page 1 of 3
Courtney Meyer
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Courtney Meyer
Phone:
136 Vireo Ln.
Hillsborough NC 27278
814-441-1711
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2025
Township of Residence: Eno
County
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
>Junior League of Durham and Orange Counties
>>Co-Chair of Extra Hands Committee for the 2026-27 League Year
>Meetings Professional International (MPI)
>>MPI Carolinas Chapter, Meeting Planning Committee Member
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Planning Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have over five years of experience in associations and non-profits where I assisted with
shaping numerous policies and procedures. I hold three Masters degrees in Forensic
Psychology, Higher Education, and Human Sexuality Education. From my time in graduate
school with writing papers and each of my theses, I am adept at conducting literature reviews,
analyzing data, and providing recommendations based on research findings.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I would like to be involved in the development of Orange County to help maintain a balance
between growth and preservation.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would be able to bring an under 40 years old perspective to the board to represent Millennials.
This is important as two-thirds of homeowners in the USA are Millennials and Gen Z. How
Millenials and younger generations view planning and development in the areas that they live are
different that the generations before them.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
6
Page 2 of 3
Courtney Meyer
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
When I lived in Texas (June 2021-February 2025), I was a volunteer for the Pug Rescue of
Austin from October 2021 to December 2024. As a volunteer, my main responsibility was
screening incoming adoption and/or foster applications. My duties as a application screener
included maintaining communication with applicants, coordinating vet checks with the medical
screeners and/or conducting vet checks myself, assigning a volunteer to conduct the interviews
with the applicant and their three references, forwarding applicants who passed the vet check
and screening interviews onto the virtual home visit coordinator, and sending denial emails to
applicants who did not pass the vet check and/or screening interview portions of the application
process.
I've also been a Rover sitter since 2017 where I have ensured the health and safety of all
animals I've cared for over the years. I have experience caring for dogs, cats, lizards, guinea
pigs, beef cattle, horses, and chickens.
Lastly, I have over five years of experience in associations and non-profits where I assisted with
shaping numerous policies and procedures. I hold three Masters degrees in Forensic
Psychology, Higher Education, and Human Sexuality Education. From my time in graduate
school with writing papers and each of my theses, I am adept at conducting literature reviews,
analyzing data, and providing recommendations based on research findings.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am a proud Pug mom and lover of all animals. I grew up on a small beef farm in Pennsylvania.
Growing up we had a variety of pets outside of the cattle from dogs, guinea pigs, and anole
lizards.
I would like to serve on the board because I'd like be involved in animal issues and improving
policies at the county level to ensure the health and safety of all animals in Orange County.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I think my perspective from volunteering with a dog rescue organization in Texas and growing up
on a small beef farm in Pennsylvania would be beneficial to the board. Additionally, I have the
perspective of being involved in 4-H as a youth, specifically 6 years in the Adams County (PA) 4H Beef Club. I think I'd bring a valuable balance of knowledge and understanding of the needs
of small and large animals.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Affordable Housing Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have over five years of experience in associations and non-profits where I assisted with
shaping numerous policies and procedures. I hold three Masters degrees in Forensic
Psychology, Higher Education, and Human Sexuality Education. From my time in graduate
school with writing papers and each of my theses, I am adept at conducting literature reviews,
analyzing data, and providing recommendations based on research findings.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I would like to be involved in ensuring affordable housing options across Orange County. I'd like
to be a part of ensuring every resident in Orange County has access to safe, affordable housing
options.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
7
Page 3 of 3
Courtney Meyer
I would be able to bring an under 40 years old perspective to the board to represent Millennials. I
know what it s like to want to buy a home but have a mountain of student loans holding me
back. Up until recently, I have rented for the majority of my life and trying to find something
affordable in the cities and towns I was living in (e.g., Austin, TX; Philadelphia, PA; State
College, PA; Richmond, VA; Norfolk, VA) was always a struggle.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/3/2026 10:08:00 AM
Date Printed:
8/13/2026
8
Page 1 of 2
Michelle Handy
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mrs. Michelle Handy
Phone:
3017 Little River Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
925-305-1497
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2021
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
Little River
County
Female
White
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Previously volunteered at the Hillsborough Arts Council Store under Molly.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I worked at the Veterinary Animal Hospital. That's my only experience.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I love animals, I love our community and I'd like to see how I can help have less homeless
animals on the streets and in the shelters.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I don't know. Everybody brings different and diverse thinking to the table just based on there life
s journey. I ve never met anybody on the board and so I can't compare what I may offer to what
others maybe offer. I just know I have time, passion, brains to learn, a commitment to animals
and a like of people and teamwork.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Advisory Board on Aging
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
None
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
9
Page 2 of 2
Michelle Handy
I'm aging (said with humor). I care about old people. I care about people who may also be
prematurely aging in mind. I'd like to learn more and partake in ways I can grow and I can also
assist in bettering as a team player
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I don't know. Everybody brings different and diverse thinking to the table just based on there life
s journey. I ve never met anybody on the board and so I can't compare what I may offer to what
others maybe offer. I just know I have time, passion, brains to learn, a commitment to
community and a like of people and teamwork .
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/12/2025 1:07:45 PM
Date Printed:
12/15/2025
10
Page 1 of 3
Timothy Ives
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Dr. Timothy Ives
Phone:
5502 Bradshaw Quarry Rd.
Efland NC 27243-9615
919-563-2246
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1981
Township of Residence: Bingham
County
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Recently, I have moved into full time teaching and research in the UNC Eshelman School
of Pharmacy, but for the last 23 years, I directed the Chronic Pain Program in the
Department of Medicine, School of Medicine. Our focus was on migitating opioid risk by
concentrating on non-opioid or non-drug therapies.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Board of Health, Orange County Health Department (1991-2000); Chair (1995-2000)
Orange County Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee (19921997) Health Department Representative, UNC Hospitals Managed Care Committee
(1997-1998)
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
In speaking with Dr. Evan Ashkin, I heard about the vacancies on the Opioid Advisory
Committee, and wish to be considered for it. In terms of experience, for the last 22 years, I
directed the Chronic Pain Program in the Division of General Medicine and Clinical
Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, at UNC. In that program, we have worked to manage
various chronic pain conditions with a minimum of use of opioids. In the past, I saw on the
Advisory Board of the NC Governor s Academy for Prevention Professionals, and the Governor
s Institute on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and from the outset, the NC Controlled Substances
Reporting System Advisory Committee in the NC Department of Health and Human Services.
Years ago, I was on the Orange County Board of Health, serving as its Chair for four of those
years. This is say that I am well aware of the issues associated with the opioid epidemic, and
that there are a number of solutions to be considered. It would be an honor to be considered for
one of the vacancies as there is a lot to be done, and i would like to contribute here in Orange
County.
As noted previously, I have directed the Chronic Pain Program in the Department of Medicine at
UNC. In it, the emphasis is on minimizing opioid use to manage pain while guarding against or
managing opioid use disorder (OUD). My residency (in pharmacy) was in family medicine with a
11
Page 2 of 3
Timothy Ives
focus on addictions and mental health.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
In addition to wanting to contribute to the welfare of the county, I believe that we have an
excellent opportunity to model some of the policies and ideas that have demonstrated benefit for
those in the community who need the services the most but may not adequately have the
personal resources to stay in control and contribute to society themselves.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I've seen the pain and suffering that many patients have and continue to have, and compassion
and caring for them is always the best place to start, especially for health care practitioners.
Also, as someone who lives and interacts out in the rural part of the county, the perspectives that
I can provide may give a balance to our efforts to provide care.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
MPH from UNC Gillings School of Public Health, and prior service on the Board of Health (Chair
for 4 years) about 20 years ago are two of the main experiences.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
The sentinel effect of a board of health has an impact on numerous parts of the community
simultaneously. We did a lot of good in the past (e.g., tobacco use bans county-wide), but there
always more to do.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I was the Pharmacist member of the Board and could always cover medication issues, but living
and acting within the county can always provide a different perspective, independent of the
designation that you may have.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My wife and I have participated in numerous shelters, and we have 3 dogs (all from shelters in
the region) and 2 cats.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
There are far too many feral/homeless animals in our community that need support and fostering
and forever homes, and it is a shame that this condition still persists.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I'm not sure, other than we live out in the country west of Carrboro, and we see too many
animals being dumped out here and we may be able to educate more people across the country
about this issue and offer positive solutions. It's a teachable moment.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
12
Page 3 of 3
Timothy Ives
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/20/2024 11:30:40 AM
Date Printed:
3/21/2025
13
Page 1 of 3
Carla Julian
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Carla Julian
Phone:
707 Mt. Ranier Dr.
Mebane NC 27392
919-418-6866
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1985
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
Cheeks
Mebane City Limits
Female
White
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Paws4ever Board of Directors
Paws4ever Volunteer
Community Created Group called Mill Creek Caring Hearts
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Orange County Adult Care Home Advisory Board
Orange County Guardian AD Litem
Recently retired Health Dept Director of Nursing
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Advisory Board on Aging
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a registered nurse with a MPH and Interdisciplinary Certificate in Aging. I did my MPH
practicum under Jerry Passmore and created a long-term care roundtable focused on
organizing community partners to address issue in LTC in the early 2000 s.I was an employee
of Orange County Health Dept for 21 years, most recent Director of Nursing. I have been a
volunteer for aging organizations such as A Helping Hand and was the primary contact for long
term care facilities during the pandemic for outbreak tracking, vaccinations and support for
infection control education by a county team devoted to assessing current practices, education
on best practices and providing resources.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have always had a passion to be an advocate for older adults, which I now am myself. When
getting my MPH I worked with the Dept on Aging as a student and volunteer. I recently created
a group in my community called Mill Creek Cares and organized a group of approximately 40
neighbors to check on vulnerable people in our community. Now that I am retired I would love
to devote my time to areas affecting seniors in Orange County and hopefully make a difference
in some way.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
14
Page 2 of 3
Carla Julian
I have extensive training in diversity and through my work an the Health Department, I am
aware of issues in our community. I am a registered nurse with an MPH and have experience
as a bedside nurse caring for adults of all ages in critical care, cardiology and oncology. I
believe in the importance of seeking diverse input and am keenly aware that we must seek this
input to be able to make a difference in diverse populations as someone with the privilege of
being born white.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Adult Care Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have served on the Adult Care Home Advisory Board in the past and have volunteered for
different aging agencies such as A Helping Hand of Orange County. During the COVID19
pandemic, I was the primary Health Dept contact with ACH's and nursing homes in Orange
County. Tracke outbreaks, coordinated vaccinations, assured assessment of infection control
activities including isolation and quarantine. As Director of Nursing I provided the nurse
assessment of the Adult Day Health Center in Hillsborough.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to advocate for persons living in these facilities by assuring compliance with facility
regulations. I was compliance manager at the Health Department for 15 years and am familiar
with assessing for compliance, documenting non-compliance or issues where education and
improvement are indicated. My main reason is to assure compliance for the residence living in
facilities that need a voice to speak for them. I also believe in training and education of staff as
a way towards compliance vs. only citations for non-compliance.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have extensive training in diversity and through my work an the Health Department, I am
aware of issues in our community. I am a registered nurse with an MPH and have experience
as a bedside nurse caring for adults of all ages in critical care, cardiology and oncology. I
believe in the importance of seeking diverse input and am keenly aware that we must seek this
input to be able to make a difference in diverse populations as someone with the privilege of
being born white.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My other passion in life aside from helping older adults is advocating for animals. I have been
on the Board of Directors for the local rescue agency Paws4ever (APS of Orange County) since
2019. I have consistently attended meetings and am very active on committees and frequently
volunteer at events. In the past I have also volunteered for the Orange County Animal Shelter
as well as Independent Animal Rescue. Through my participation with Paws4ever I am aware
of many of the issues affecting Animal welfare in Orange County and beyond.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I love animals, have rescued three dogs myself and want to participate in an organization that
may be able to make a difference in the lives of animals as well as the people they live with.
Animal advocacy is a little harder for me because I am a very sensitive person and react deeply
to stories of neglect and cruelty. If I were chosen for this board, I would work hard to focus on
the good that could be done and the potential impact for animals and owners.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
15
Page 3 of 3
Carla Julian
As a Board Member on Paws4ever, I am part of the REDI committee that works on issues of
Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. I am a member of C.A.R.E. (America's first national
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Animal Welfare organization) and have completed a 4
hour course to become C.A.R.E. REDI certified. Paws4evers keeps REDI in focus as we work
towards diversity in our daily operations as well as for our Board, staff, volunteers, and adopters.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/10/2025 12:48:55 PM
Date Printed:
11/17/2025
16
Page 1 of 3
Patrick Mann
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Patrick Mann
Phone:
1200 Hurdle Mills Rd.
Cedar Grove NC 27231
919-864-0017
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1997
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
County
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
board of carolina friends school(off now) scoccer clinic in cedar grove for 4-8 year oldson planning committee for AG summitt
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I was a nurse for over 30 years working in trauma dept in 3 states including NC in my 20 s I
helped create a volunteer ambulance service in Boston under Project Place we specialized in
working people having Bad drug trips and spent much of our time counseling drug users I have
personally know and lived with person who used drugs and in my earlier like was part od the
drug culrure
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I feel I can offer an understanding of some of these clients,and am able to look for a solution
versus trying to just punish people and i do believe i can look at how our legal system has not
been crafted well enough to achieve to stated goals but ends up making us feel like we are in
control. I have something to offer and there is a need
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I amd of the QUAKER faith and in so try to look at people and situations to see what they are
and aceppt them as in ,this does not mean condoning all actions so I feel I have able to accept
the fact we need to learn how to live with drug use to to miniamize its negative impact on people
and society which means we can not sepperate it from racism and class issues in our society. it
hopefully will bring a caring realilistic view and approache to working this age old issue
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
17
Page 2 of 3
Patrick Mann
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a homesteader and have presently 3 donkeys,2 geese 4 cats,10 sheep ,2 hogs was raised
on a hog farm with multipl different animals
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I beliebve that we as a species have a resonsability to care for and to respect other species and
we as people need to help each other in doing that
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have a very deep relationship with animals from being my friends to feeding me .I do all my own
slaughtering and buthchering so I feel I hve a very full relationship with animals.Also I was a
nurse for over 30 years and learmed how to liosten and discern what is actually being said.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a homesteader and have presently 3 donkeys,2 geese 4 cats,10 sheep ,2 hogs was raised
on a hog farm with multipl different animals
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I beliebve that we as a species have a resonsability to care for and to respect other species and
we as people need to help each other in doing that
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have a very deep relationship with animals from being my friends to feeding me .I do all my own
slaughtering and buthchering so I feel I hve a very full relationship with animals.Also I was a
nurse for over 30 years and learmed how to liosten and discern what is actually being said.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
raised on a hog farm in MA been farming or homesteading most of my life
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
to assist in preservation of current farmland in a reasonable manner to assist farmers to be able
to make a living
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
i come from a Quaker background that befor we state solutions or what we think is right we listen
to what others have to say and we ask what would benefit the county members vs what I
personally might desire
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
18
Page 3 of 3
Other Comments:
Applied for OAC 10/12/2022
Applied for ASAB and HPP 11/4/2025 4:11 PM
Applied for Agricultural Preservation Board 3/27/2026 7:37:57 PM
Patrick Mann
This application was current on: 3/27/2026 7:37:57 PM
Date Printed:
4/1/2026
19
Page 1 of 2
Don Stephenson
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Don Stephenson
Phone:
112 NC 54 Bypass
Apt I2
Carrboro NC 27510
919-591-1348
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2020
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Carrboro City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Mentorship, working with church youth, bringing together my community in solidarity.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Public housing
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Worked with alcohol addicts with their recovery process for a number of years
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
The love I have to servicing the public, making a good difference in the lives of my fellow
Americans
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
To learn where I could best assist people in their journey.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
N/A
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Public Servant for years
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Have a passion for serving the public
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
20
Page 2 of 2
Don Stephenson
Studying for years the interest of the people
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Social Services
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Been serving the public for many years now
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Public Servant
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Broad minded considering all pertinent information
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
Applied for ABC Board 10/4/2024 12:25:39 AM
Applied for Animal Services Advisory Board and Board of Social Services 10/28/2024
9:49:11 AM
This application was current on: 10/4/2024 12:25:39 AM
Date Printed:
10/31/2024
21
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every month
Contact Person: Elizabeth Overcash & Christina Allen
Meeting Place: 1601 Eubanks Rd., Chapel Hill
Contact Phone: 919-245-2400
Positions: 13
Description:
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
<div>The Animal Services Advisory Board is charged to advise the Board of County Commissioners on matters of concern
regarding animal issues and services within the county, and to work with Animal Services on various policy concerns and
issues. Position #1 Veterianarian from Health Board may serve 3 terms to coincide with the Board of Health terms.</div>
Dr. Ann Brady
First Appointed:
1
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment: 04/21/2026
Bingham
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Veterinarian from Health Board (3 terms) Number of Terms:
Female
60+
04/21/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2029
1
Dr. Ashley Robertson
First Appointed:
2
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Veterinarian
Female
35-59
09/16/2025
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Expiration:
06/30/2028
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
03/07/2023
Deborah Hill
3
Vice-Chair
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Carrboro
Female
35-59
Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Expiration:
06/30/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
04/21/2026
Ellen Pearsall
4
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Chapel Hill
Female
35-59
Current Appointment: 04/21/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2027
Number of Terms:
Ms. Mary Lucas
First Appointed:
5
Gender Identity:
Hillsborough
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Hillsborough
Female
35-59
05/20/2025
Current Appointment: 05/20/2025
Expiration:
06/30/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
06/18/2024
Ms. Annie Goldberg
6
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Non-Municipality
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Female
18-34
Current Appointment: 06/18/2024
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
06/30/2027
1
Page 1
22
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every month
Contact Person: Elizabeth Overcash & Christina Allen
Meeting Place: 1601 Eubanks Rd., Chapel Hill
Contact Phone: 919-245-2400
Positions: 13
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Ms. Rhonda Patterson
First Appointed:
7
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: Other
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
At-Large
Female
60+
09/16/2025
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Expiration:
06/30/2028
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
10/06/2026
Ms. Angel Barnes
8
Gender Identity:
Cedar Grove
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Non-Municipality
Female
35-59
Current Appointment: 10/06/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
10/15/2024
Michael Dempsey
9
Gender Identity:
Eno
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Animal Welfare/Animal Advocacy
Male
60+
Current Appointment: 10/15/2024
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
06/30/2027
1
VACANT
First Appointed:
10
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Current Appointment:
Expiration:
Animal Welfare/Animal Advocacy
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
Cathy Munnier
First Appointed:
11
Gender Identity:
Eno
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Animal Welfare/Animal Advocacy
Female
60+
03/07/2023
Current Appointment: 05/19/2026
Expiration:
06/30/2029
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
10/06/2020
Allan Polak
12
Chair
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment: 05/20/2025
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Certified Animal Handler/Trainer/Technic Number of Terms:
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Male
35-59
Expiration:
06/30/2028
2
Page 2
23
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm Third Wednesday of every month
Contact Person: Elizabeth Overcash & Christina Allen
Meeting Place: 1601 Eubanks Rd., Chapel Hill
Contact Phone: 919-245-2400
Positions: 13
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Emily Feight
First Appointed:
13
Gender Identity:
Non-Res.Consultnt.
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Owner/Manager Retail Pet Services
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Female
18-34
10/06/2026
Current Appointment: 10/06/2026
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
06/30/2029
1
Page 3
24
Applicant Interest Listing
Animal Services Advisory Board
by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Elizabeth Overcash & Christina
Contact Phone: 919-245-2400
Mrs. Michelle Handy
Gender Identity:
Female
Date Applied: 12/12/2025
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Little River
Age Range:
35-59
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Dr. Timothy Ives
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
60+
Date Applied: 11/20/2024
Township: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Ms. Carla Julian
Gender Identity:
Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
Also Serves On:
60+
Date Applied: 11/10/2025
Township: Cheeks
Zone of Residence: Mebane City Limits
Advisory Board on Aging
Patrick Mann
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
60+
Date Applied: 03/27/2026
Township: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Courtney Meyer
Gender Identity:
Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
35-59
Date Applied: 08/03/2026
Township: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. Don Stephenson
Gender Identity:
Male
Date Applied: 10/28/2024
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range:
35-59
Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Page 1 of 1
25
ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN
Name of Board/Commission: Animal Services Advisory Board
Report Period: January 2025-December 2025
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all volunteers
on Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to complete an Annual
Report and Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the activities each
board/commission has conducted over the past year and detail a plan for future activities.
These activities should be consistent with the board/commission’s assigned charge and
the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan). General
information about the Strategic Plan is available here.
Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information: Allan Polak, ASAB Chair;
and Debbie Hill, Vice-Chair
Primary staff contact: Elizabeth Overcash, Animal Services Director
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and subcommittee meetings?
The Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) meets monthly on the third Wednesday from
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., except during the months of July and December. Meetings are open
to the public, and community members are encouraged to share their concerns or
challenges related to animals in the community.
Six ASAB members also serve on the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool, which reviews
appeals of dangerous dog declarations and other ordinance violations enforced by Orange
County Animal Services (OCAS). One ASAB member chairs each appeal hearing, which
consists of three members from the Panel Pool, convened under the Unified Animal
Ordinance.
In addition, three ASAB members serve on the review committee for the Pat Sanford
Animal Welfare Award. Each fall, the committee evaluates applications and selects a
recipient based on established award criteria.
26
Finally, as needed, the ASAB forms task forces to study specific issues that require more
detailed research, discussion, or analysis.
Please briefly describe this board/commission’s assigned charge and responsibilities.
Board-specific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the charge and
responsibilities for each board/commission, are available here.
The Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) serves as a sounding board for policy issues
raised by residents or identified by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). Residents
are referred to the ASAB as an important first step in addressing stakeholder concerns
before an item is proposed to the BOCC.
As part of this role, the ASAB also receives feedback from members who serve on the
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool. The hearing panel oversees citizen interactions with
Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) in matters such as declaring a dog dangerous in
response to aggressive behavior or reviewing appeals related to denied kennel permits.
The ASAB also focuses on the human side of animal welfare. A core value of the Board is
the concept of One Health—the connection between animals, public health, safety, the
environment, and community well-being. One ASAB member also serves as the
veterinarian representative on the Orange County Health Board, bridging human and
animal health issues in a region where zoonotic diseases remain a significant concern.
What are your board/commission’s most important accomplishments during the
report period?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Employee Appreciation Day for OCAS
Pat Sanford Grant awarded and renewed
Dog training program initiative launched in conjunction with OCAS
Public education/Talking points campaign initiated
Held three Dangerous Dog hearings
ASAB positions are 100% filled – No Vacancies
Ongoing assistance w/fundraising efforts, including donations directly
from ASAB members to OCAS
27
Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Support the annual Clear-the-Shelters adoption event
Pat Sanford Grant
ASAB members attend and participate in OCAS Holiday Potluck
Support and volunteer at scheduled rabies vaccination and microchip clinics
Employee Appreciation Day – Summer – ASAB sponsored a local ice cream
truck to provide free ice cream to all OCAS staff
Host members of the public at monthly Board meeting and act as a sounding
board for their concerns and feedback.
Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out the
goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the
Strategic Plan is available here.
Advisory Board Roles and Responsibilities:
• Provide a setting for stakeholder communication about various animal-related concerns.
• Sustain the ASAB by meeting and answering questions from candidates for Board
vacancies, making recommendations to the BOCC, and conducting orientations for new
members.
• Worked toward an effective succession of ASAB members on the Animal Services
Hearing Panel Pool.
• Support the Pat Sanford Animal Welfare Grant and participated in the application review
panel.
Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and
commissions.
Dr. Lee Pickett serves on the Orange County Board of Health as the Veterinarian
Representative from the Animal Services Advisory Board.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are
related to the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic
Plan is available here. If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
28
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Update ASAB Orientation video and FAQs
ASAB Youth Delegate Program
Veterinary support for animals of unhoused residents
Employee Appreciation Day – Summer and Winter events
Pat Sanford Grant
OCAS Volunteer of the Year award (E. Cramer)
Support the OCAS Silent auction fundraiser
Continue to build dog training program
Support the OCAS Dog Adventures Program
What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the
upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC’s attention?
•
The ASAB does not anticipate any concerns or emerging issues that it wishes
to bring to the attention of the BOCC.
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
8
SUBJECT: Commission for the Environment – Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Recommendations
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Applications for Persons Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2125
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Commission for the Environment.
BACKGROUND: The Commission for the Environment advises the Board of County
Commissioners on matters affecting the environment with particular emphasis on protection. It
educates the public and local officials on environmental issues, performs special studies and
projects, recommends environmental initiatives, and studies changes in environmental science
and local and federal regulations.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all fifteen (15) at-large members.
The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME
POSITION
DESCRIPTION
EXPIRATION
DATE
At-Large
TYPE OF
APPOINTMENT
TERM
First Full Term
Partial Term
followed by
First Full Term
Second Full Term
John Tatreau
Mark Turner
At-Large
At-Large
Dr. John
Bucher
Lily Schact
At-Large
Second Full Term
12/31/2029
12/31/2028
12/31/2026
followed by
12/31/2029
12/31/2029
NOTE: The Commission for the Environment has recommended Lily Schact for reappointment.
The Commission’s attendance records through September 30, 2026, indicate that Ms. Schact has
2
now missed three (3) scheduled meetings in 2026. Therefore, she is subject to removal pursuant
to the Advisory Board Policy (as last revised February 17, 2026).
If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to the
Commission for the Environment.
3
October 2, 2026
Ms. Laura Jensen
Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners
300 West Tryon Street
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Dear Ms. Jensen:
After Shannon Thielman and Sonia Rovner are brought on board, the Commission
for the Environment (CFE) will have two remaining vacancies. We have reviewed the
list of applicants and the CFE recommends John Tatreau for appointment to position
#4 and Mark Turner for appointment to position #10. The CFE will benefit greatly
from the background of these applicants.
The CFE also has three upcoming expirations on December 31, 2026. John Bucher
has requested to be reappointed, but Ian Morse has not. Lily Schacht would like to
be reappointed as well, but her absence issue with her current term has yet to be
resolved. We await the BOCC decision on that situation, but she has been a great
service to the CFE and will continue to be so if the BOCC would allow her to stay.
Sincerely,
Regina Baratta
Chair, Commission for the Environment
NATURAL and CULTURAL RESOURCES DIVISION
Orange County Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks & Recreation
PO Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2510 Fax: (919) 644-3351
4
Name
Dr. Kristie Mather
Matthew Ferguson
Lily Schacht
Patrick Fn'Piere
Leto Copeley
Shannon Thielman
Mark Randall
Dr. John Bucher
Ian Morse
Sonia Rovner
Regina Baratta
Aimee Vandemark
Jeffrey Ryan
VACANT
VACANT
Dr. June Dunnick
Lauren Knapp-Resnik
Shawn Regan
John Tatreau
Mark Turner
Member or Applicant?
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Commission for the Environment Board Members and Applicants
Gender Identity
Race/Ethnic Background
Age Range
Female
White
35-59
Male
White
18-34
Female
White
18-34
Male
African American
60+
Female
White
60+
Female
White
35-59
Male
White
60+
Male
White
60+
Male
White
35-59
Female
Asian Amerian
60+
Female
White
35-59
Female
White
35-59
Male
White
60+
Township
Chapel Hill
Bingham
Chapel Hill
Hillsborough
Eno
Chapel Hill
Cedar Grove
Hillsborough
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Hillsborough
Hillsborough
Chapel Hill
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Female
Female
Male
Male
Male
Chapel Hill
Little River
Hillsborough
Cheeks
Chapel Hill
Other
White
White
White
White
60+
35-59
35-59
60+
35-59
Also Serves on
Agricultural Preservation Board
5
Page 1 of 2
John Tatreau
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. John Tatreau
Phone:
701 Village Lake Dr.
Mebane NC 27302
919-672-9559
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1996
Township of Residence: Cheeks
Town of Mebane City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
past member Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce
past volunteer Meals on Wheels Hillsborough
Durham Realtor Association
National Association of Realtors
North Carolina Association of Realtors
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Affordable Housing Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As a 20- year experienced real estate broker, I am familiar with the rise in property values, home
prices, mortgage rates, rent increases that have priced out many seniors and first time buyers
out of the market. Affordable Housing should be a high priority for Orange County.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe I can add value and provide experienced advice to the board. I want to give back to my
community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
The board needs seniors from all ethnic groups
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Advisory Board on Aging
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
6
Page 2 of 2
John Tatreau
As a senior myself, I have first hand knowledge of the housing, health and cost of living
increases that challenge seniors every day. I want to be part of the solution.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe I can add value and provide experienced advice to the board. I want to give back to my
community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
The board needs seniors from all ethnic groups
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a past member of Keep Omaha Beautiful, was instrumental in initiating Omaha s first blue
bag recycling program, past member of Climate Reality Group, drive an electric car and an
advocate for an improved environment, solar energy, wind energy and reducing our carbon
footprint.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe I can add value and provide experienced advice to the board. I want to give back to my
community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
The board needs seniors from all ethnic groups
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/10/2026 1:58:29 PM
Date Printed:
8/13/2026
7
Page 1 of 2
Mark Turner
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mark Turner
Phone:
411 Robin Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
919-328-0179
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1993
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
County
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Member of the South Orange Rescue Squad. Literacy tutor with the Durham Literacy
Council.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
none
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Parks and Recreation Council
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As a lawyer, I understand the necessity to gather facts, compile arguments, and persuade
people in order to build consensus around a course of action.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am a long-time user of Orange County's outdoor greenspace, including parks and trails and
want to see them improved and expanded in order to keep Orange County an appealing place to
live.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I was raised in California, went to college in Boston, and graduate school in NC. I studied Biology
as an undergraduate, health policy analysis in graduate school, and subsequently, the law.
Accordingly, I have engaged with people holding a wide variety of viewpoints. Perhaps this
background will add to the diversity of the board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
8
Page 2 of 2
Mark Turner
I am an active outdoorsman (hiking, boating, skiing, running, biking) and have observed the
challenges associated with maintaining a healthy environment in the face of population growth
and development. Having an undergraduate degree in Biology and Master s degree in Public
Health, I understand how science can be used to inform policy decisions.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have always believed protecting the environment is important, and serving on the board may
provide a way to contribute to that goal.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I imagine there are not many lawyers with science backgrounds providing input to the board,
thus diversity of viewpoints would be increased.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I spent the last 17 years of my career working for crop protection (pesticides) companies. This
required me to become familiar with many of the challenges faced by modern farmers as well as
many of the new technologies being developed to improve agricultural production.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Maintaining agricultural land prevents the overcrowding that results from suburban development
(sprawl) and all of the associated negative impacts on air and water quality.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
If the board is composed primarily of active farmers, then given that I have not farmed
previously, I would bring a different perspective.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
Applied for PRC 11/21/2024 2:35:52 PM
Applied for CFE and APB 5/26/2026 1:31:49 PM
This application was current on: 5/26/2026 1:31:49 PM
Date Printed:
5/27/2026
9
Page 1 of 2
John Bucher
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Dr. John Bucher
Phone:
326 W Queen St
Hillsborough NC 27278
919-302-7010
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1983
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Hillsborough Town Limits
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
none
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Commission for the Environment
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I worked at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences for 38 years rising to become
the Associate Director of the National Toxicology Program for 10 years. I have a Ph.D. in
pharmacology and toxicology and did post doctoral work in environmental toxicology.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Adaptation to climate change is simply not happening quickly enough, and more needs to be
done to identify opportunities to solarize, further reduce waste generation, simplify and expand
recycling and address transportation needs reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Orange County
needs to prepare for heat and flood emergencies, and all citizens need to recognize that actions
to mitigate climate change require individual and collective efforts and responsibilities.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
In addition to an in depth knowledge of environmental toxicology, I would provide the perspective
of one who has driven EVs since 2011, first installed a solar water heater in 1984, and recently
installed 17 solar panels. My wife and I have a large garden, provide excess vegetables to food
banks, and she is a Master Gardner active in promoting school gardens in Orange County. For
the past 15 years we also have owned a small business with one of our sons in Orange County
so I m aware of the pressures that can at times complicate societal change. This is the
perspective I would bring to the Commission.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
10
Page 2 of 2
John Bucher
Orange Water & Sewer Authority Board of Directors
1. Please describe, generally, your reasons for wanting to serve on the OWASA Board of
Directors.
I was asked by the current Board director of possible interest in applying to serve. After
consideration, I am interested and feel I could provide needed technical expertise. I m retired
from Federal government service and have the time and desire to contribute to the well being of
the community.
2a. Please list/explain your experience, either professionally and/or from other
boards/commissions that you have in the areas of budget, personnel, and management.
For over 10 years I directed the Division of the National Toxicology Program at NIEHS, part of
the National Institutes of Health. As such I oversaw an ~ $100 M budget and approximately 115
staff. I therefore have extensive experience in developing budgets, managing diverse personnel,
and managing a large public health program with an international reputation for excellence.
2b. In addition to the experience listed in the question above, please list the
work/volunteer experience/qualifications that would add to your expertise for this board.
I joined NIEHS in 1983 as an entry level staff scientist. Through the years I assumed a steadily
increasing level of responsibility, and gained personal experience working at all levels of a
complex organization. I appreciate the challenges of both working for and directing staff. I m an
internationally recognized toxicologist with knowledge of water disinfection byproducts, fluoride
and PSAS.
3. What do you understand OWASA’s role to be regarding issues of growth and
development?
I understand OWASA faces challenges in implementing new PFAS contamination standards, an
aging infrastructure requiring continued pipe replacement, managing leaks, maintaining the land
around Cane Creek, all the while supporting rapid growth of Chapel Hill and Carrboro. OWASA
faces increasing challenges to keeping rates affordable.
4. What do do you hope to accomplish if appointed?
I would hope to be an engaged and valuable resource for the Board of Directors. I consider
OWASA to be a critical public health agency responsible for supplying an essential life resource
to the communities it serves.
5. Please indicate your availability to attend regularly scheduled meetings.
I'm retired and available for these meetings.
6. How would your participation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would hope to bring scientific and technical expertise in water treatment approaches and
consequences. I note that this is largely missing from the backgrounds of current Board
members, particularly with the required retirement of a current Orange County appointed
member in July of 2024.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 4/16/2023 8:30:06 PM
Date Printed:
12/6/2023
11
Page 1 of 2
Lily Schacht
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Lily Schacht
Phone:
5317 Sweetbush Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
203-554-2957
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2021
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
County
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Soil Science Society of America (SSSA)
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My background is in soil and water quality. Specifically, I have an MS in Environmental
Engineering. In the past, I have done research at the EPA in RTP on indoor air quality and at NC
State on groundwater contamination. I currently work at Lithos Carbon, a startup that spreads
local basalt rock dust on NC farms to improve soil quality and sequester atmospheric carbon.
Our focus is on farms East of Durham County, so I don t think this is a conflict of interest for
Orange County.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to serve on this board to make a meaningful impact on the environmental initiatives in
Orange County and to become more involved in the community. I hope to bring evidence-based
knowledge to the group to foster well-informed decision making.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My experience with the interconnectedness and downstream impacts of air, water, and soil
quality will contribute to the diversity of viewpoints. Orange County is socioeconomically diverse
on a very small scale, with gated mansions nearly adjacent to mobile home communities. This
heterogeneity makes environmental justice issues less apparent than in areas with clear
socioeconomic boundaries, where it is obvious when a dump, power plant, or high-traffic road is
constructed in a low-income area. However, these issues still exist and are important to keep in
mind when forming policies and initiatives related to the environment. For example, agriculture
and heavy industry put groundwater at risk for contamination and aquifer depletion. If this
happens, wealthier residents may be able to drill deeper wells or invest in water treatment
systems while others are left without abundant, clean water.
12
Page 2 of 2
Lily Schacht
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/5/2023 11:43:20 AM
Date Printed:
12/6/2023
13
Page 1 of 2
June Dunnick
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Dr. June Dunnick
Phone:
2556 Booker Creek Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
919-967-9467
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1981
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
Other
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Previous member of Chapel Hill library board;
Town of Chapel Hill Planning Board
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
not served
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
J. Dunnick has background on components on the environment and their hazards:
1. Dunnick, J. K., Schmidt, C, Dixon, D. (2025). Chemicals, metals, and chemical/metal mixtures
at U. S. Superfund sites: A review of carcinogenic potential. Chem Res Toxicol. 2025 Jun
16;38(6):963-974.
2. Dunnick, J. K. , Sanders, J. M., Kissling, G. E. , Johnson, C. L. Boyle, M. H. Elmore, S. A.
(2015) Environmental chemical exposure may contribute to uterine cancer development: studies
with tetrabromobisphenol A. Toxicol. Pathol. 43: 464-73.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Maintain a healthy environment for Orange County
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
- Would understand the chemistry and reactions that can occur from exposure to hazardous
chemicals in the environment
- Long term resident of Orange County
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
14
Page 2 of 2
June Dunnick
no
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 5/13/2026 2:22:09 PM
Date Printed:
5/15/2026
15
Page 1 of 2
Lauren Knapp-Resnik
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mrs. Lauren Knapp-Resnik
Phone:
5701 Island Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
919-732-5460
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2003
Township of Residence: Little River
County
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I have no organizational memberships; however, I have grown up in London, England,
Paris, France, and Geneva, Switzerland and lived in the West and East Coast, Texas, and
now NC the past 26 years. I ve a diverse range of ideas on how the preservation and
planning in OC can go based on European time-honored planning - with intent to avoid
urban sprawl here. Responsible growth, functionality, elegance and beauty can transpire
with intelligent planning based on the above models!
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Planning Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I hold a BA in psychology and an MA in Strategic Intelligence. I am an excellent writer, having
written a 300 page unpublished historical fiction novel on a real pirate family in Cornwall,
England and having written several Op/Eds for the Chapel Hill Herald Sun. Being a Texan who
grew up in London, England; Paris, France; Geneva, Switzerland; and lived on the West and
East Coasts, Texas, and NC - I can communicate will all types, on all levels, and genuinely enjoy
all people. I speak fluent French. I have seen and literally been formed by some of the most
beautiful planning and architecture in these major European cities, most notably London. I can
bring a fresh, innovative outlook to OC planning based on real living in these designs.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Planning influences the psychology, stability, and well-being of a community. I am excited and
confident that OC, based on its respect for preservation of the land and environment, can hold
the line and take the lead in serving as a model for the rest of NC in creating functional,
affordable, sustainable, responsible living designs with elegance and jaw-dropping beauty. We
can have it, but not enough people have lived abroad to see the enormous possibilities, thinking
clear-cutting and conventional building is the only way. That's all they know. We can change that.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
16
Page 2 of 2
Lauren Knapp-Resnik
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I am eager to present ideas to OC based on exposure to European planning and architecture. I
want to contribute and expand the innovative diversity of ideas borrowed from models in England
and Europe. Building more vertically, around common greens, for example, but even more large
scale than London proportionally, is a way to prevent urban sprawl and preserve and protect our
precious greenery - land, trees, wildlife, even water. OC can be the vanguard in this area and
serve as a model for other counties to protect the environment while growing.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have a BA in Psychology from California State, Northridge. I m an excellent writer, having
published Op/Eds in the Chapel Hill Herald Sun. I am passionate about preservation of our
beautiful environment, both locally and globally. My husband and I have owned 18 acres here in
N. Hillsborough for 23 years, and I largely on my own have maintained and protected that land.
You learn much in that time; you build a contract with the land and Earth. I am committed until
my end to protection of our land, water, air, wildlife - and our hands-down magnificent NC
TREES. These above are the priority, period.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to protect our water supply and quality, our land, air, and wildlife. I want no data centers in
OC.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I'm a Texan that grew up in London, England. I see the environmental responsibility England
takes in contrast to the urban sprawl and disregard for the environment that Texas sadly has
taken. We in OC can take a page from the England playbook to prevent further degradation of
our priceless environment. Texans are wonderful, but they let their land be trashed and
behemoth corporations dominate the environment. I don t think that is right. I think Texas
deserves better. NC and OC certainly do. It s not too late for OC to ramp up strong protection of
our water quantity and quality supply, our clean air, our land and wildlife preservation. OC
already has an understood philosophy of protection; we can influence other counties to do the
same!
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 7/20/2026 1:12:27 PM
Date Printed:
7/23/2026
17
Page 1 of 2
Shawn Regan
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Shawn Regan
Phone:
815 Stone Tennis Ct.
Hillsborough NC 27278
919-810-6060
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2023
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
County
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Mensa
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My professional background is in science, engineering, and regulated pharmaceutical systems.
Over approximately twenty years, i have worked in environments where decisions must balance
technical performance, human safety, regulatory requirements, cost, and long term risk. Much of
my work involves evaluating complex systems, identifying potential failure modes, understanding
the consequences of decisions, and developing controls that are both effective and practical.
My science-focused education and career have also taught me to distinguish between what the
available evidence shows, what remains uncertain, and what additional information is needed
before making a decision. I routinely work across technical and nontechnical groups and
translate complicated issues into information that can support sound decisions.
I believe those skills are directly applicable to environmental policy. Environmental issues often
involve interconnected systems and tradeoffs among public health, environmental protection,
economic activity, infrastructure, and future needs. My experience with risk assessment, rootcause analysis, regulatory compliance, and long-term system planning would allow me to
contribute a structured and evidence-based perspective to the Commission's work.
I also have a strong interest in environmental stewardship at the local level, including water
quality, responsible land use, habitat and biodiversity, energy use, and ensuring that the longterm costs of environmental impacts are considered when decisions are made.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
18
Page 2 of 2
Shawn Regan
I would like to serve because I believe local government offers an unusually good opportunity for
individual citizens to contribute meaningfully to the public good. Many environmental decisions
are most effectively influenced before policies, development plans, infrastructure investments, or
other choices become difficult to change.
I am particularly interested in helping Orange County identify those opportunities early and make
decisions that protect both current residents and future generations. I believe human welfare and
environmental stewardship are closely connected: clean water, healthy ecosystems, resilient
infrastructure, and responsible use of natural resources are all foundations for long-term quality
of life.
I am also interested in finding practical solutions rather than approaching environmental
questions from a predetermined political position. In some situations, good policy may involve
regulation or enforcement when environmental or public-health costs would otherwise be shifted
to the community. In others, education, incentives, better planning, or technological solutions
may produce better results.
I would like to contribute my time and experience toward helping the County evaluate those
choices carefully, preserve future options where uncertainty exists, and identify actions where
relatively modest effort today can prevent much larger environmental or human costs later.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring a systems-engineering and regulated-industry perspective that may differ from
more traditional environmental, advocacy, planning, or policy backgrounds.
My work has trained me to ask not only whether an objective is desirable, but how a proposed
solution will operate in practice, how its effectiveness can be measured, what unintended
consequences may occur, and what happens when the system does not behave as expected. I
am accustomed to examining failure modes, challenging assumptions, and looking for controls
that remain effective over the full life of a system rather than only under ideal conditions.
I also tend to approach issues without assuming that either government intervention or privatesector action is inherently the better solution. Businesses can be extremely effective at improving
efficiency and developing new solutions, but environmental and public-health costs can
sometimes fall outside the incentives that guide individual organizations. In those situations, welldesigned and enforceable rules may be necessary. At the same time, regulation should be
evidence-based, proportional to the risk, and designed to accomplish measurable outcomes.
I believe that combination of scientific curiosity, practical engineering experience, regulatory
perspective, and willingness to reconsider conclusions when the evidence changes would add a
constructive viewpoint to the Commission. I would hope to contribute not only my own
perspective, but also a disciplined approach to understanding and incorporating perspectives
different from my own.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 9/14/2026 4:39:50 PM
Date Printed:
9/15/2026
19
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month
Contact Person: Wesley Poole & Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B. Davis Environment & Agricultural Center
Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15
Description:
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
<div>This commission advises the Board of Commissioners on matters affecting the environment with particular emphasis on
protection. It educates the public and local officials on environmental issues and performs special studies and projects.
It also recommends environmental initiatives and studies changes in environmental science and local and federal regulations.
</div>
Dr. Kristie Mather
First Appointed:
1
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Chapel Hill
At-Large
03/16/2021
Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2026
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
03/07/2024
Mr. Matthew Ferguson
2
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
18-34
Bingham
At-Large
Current Appointment: 11/18/2025
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
03/07/2024
Lily Schacht
3
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
18-34
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
12/31/2026
1
VACANT
First Appointed:
4
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Current Appointment:
At-Large
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Number of Terms:
Mr. Patrick Fn'Piere
First Appointed:
5
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
60+
Hillsborough
At-Large
03/07/2024
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
09/16/2025
Ms. Leto Copeley
6
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Female
60+
Eno
At-Large
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
12/31/2028
1
Page 1
20
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month
Contact Person: Wesley Poole & Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B. Davis Environment & Agricultural Center
Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Shannon Thielman
First Appointed:
7
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Chapel Hill
At-Large
10/06/2026
Current Appointment: 10/06/2026
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
09/20/2022
Mr Mark Randall
8
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
60+
Cedar Grove
At-Large
Current Appointment: 11/18/2025
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
03/07/2024
Dr. John Bucher
9
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
60+
Hillsborough
At-Large
Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
12/31/2026
1
VACANT
First Appointed:
10
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Current Appointment:
At-Large
Expiration:
12/31/2026
Number of Terms:
Mr Ian Morse
11
First Appointed:
Vice-Chair
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Male
35-59
Chapel Hill
At-Large
04/05/2022
Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2026
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
10/06/2026
Sonia Rovner
12
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: Asian American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Female
60+
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 10/06/2026
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Number of Terms:
Page 2
21
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Commission for the Environment
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Second Monday of every month
Contact Person: Wesley Poole & Kalani Allen
Meeting Place: Bonnie B. Davis Environment & Agricultural Center
Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 15
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Ms. Regina Baratta
13
First Appointed:
Chair
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Hillsborough
At-Large
09/20/2022
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
03/07/2024
Aimee Vandemark
14
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Female
35-59
Hillsborough
At-Large
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
09/16/2025
Mr. Jeffrey Ryan
15
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Male
60+
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 09/16/2025
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
12/31/2027
1
Page 3
22
Applicant Interest Listing
Commission for the Environment
by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Wesley Poole & Kalani Allen
Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Dr. June Dunnick
Gender Identity:
Female
Date Applied: 05/13/2026
Ethnic Background: Other
Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range:
60+
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Also Serves On:
Mrs. Lauren Knapp-Resnik
Gender Identity:
Female
Date Applied: 07/20/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Little River
Age Range:
35-59
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. Shawn Regan
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
35-59
Date Applied: 09/14/2026
Township: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. John Tatreau
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range:
60+
Date Applied: 08/10/2026
Township: Cheeks
Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits
Also Serves On:
Mark Turner
Gender Identity:
Male
Date Applied: 05/26/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range:
Also Serves On:
35-59
Zone of Residence: County
Agricultural Preservation Board
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Page 1 of 1
23
ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN
Name of Board/Commission: Commission for the Environment
Report Period: January 2025-December 2025
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all volunteers on
Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to complete an Annual Report and
Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the activities each board/commission has
conducted over the past year and detail a plan for future activities. These activities should be
consistent with the board/commission's assigned charge and the goals identified in the Orange
County Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan). General information about the Strategic Plan is
available here.
Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information:
Regina Baratta, Chair ([email protected])
Primary staff contact:
Christian Hirni ([email protected]) and
Wesley Poole ([email protected])
1. How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings
and subcommittee meetings?
1x/month
2. Please briefly describe this board/commission’s assigned charge and responsibilities. Boardspecific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the charge and responsibilities for each
board/commission, are available here.
The primary purpose of the Commission for the Environment (CFE) is to advise the Board of County
Commissioners (BOCC) on matters affecting the natural environment. This responsibility
generally includes: advising on environmental policy, promoting education of the public and local
officials on environmental issues, making recommendations on environmental initiatives, and
understanding special environmental studies and projects.
24
3. What are your board/commission’s most important accomplishments during the report period?
Scoring the 2025 Community Climate Action Grant Applications
Outline and research for State of Environment Report
Participation in OC Earth Evening, Repair Cafes, Tree Giveaways
Partnership with Hillsborough Climate Challenge Events
4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually.
Community Climate Action Grant Application scoring
Nature of Orange Photography Contest Sponsor
Conduct environmental education outreach events (e.g., Earth Evening),
Liaison to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
Laison to Orange County’s Climate Council
Review and comment on environmental issues (e.g., anti-idling efforts, fracking, biosolids
application, water pollution, air quality, forest mgmt.) and other issues assigned by the BOCC
Conduct special studies pertaining to Orange County environment (e.g., energy
efficiency/sustainability, forestry effects on water quality, herbicides, and native flora)
RIPPLE Environmental Award
5. Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out the
goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan.
Expanded educational opportunities for county staff and community members on climate action
and available resources that support projects in this area. (Environmental Protection and Climate
Action Goal #3)
6. Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and commissions.
Provides liaison to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group
Joint scoring of Community Climate Action Grants Application with HRC
Participate in Orange County’s Climate Council
Participate in Hillsborough’s Climate Challenge
25
7. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are related to
the Orange County Strategic Plan. If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
Complete the State of the Environment Report (Limitations: time, access to data)
Continue to Support the Orange County Climate Action Plan and work being done
by OC Sustainability Office
Review and rank the 2026 Community Climate Action Grants
Participate in 2026 Hillsborough Climate Challenge
8. What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the upcoming year
that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC’s attention?
Advocate for the reestablishment of the full Community Climate Action Grant Funds
Support Sustainability Office Heat Action Efforts
Work with local municipalities, organizations, and universities to understand the status, practices,
and impacts of PFAS on air, land, and water and communicate those findings to BOCC and the
public
1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: October 13, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No.
9
SUBJECT: Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board – Appointments
Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Recommendations
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Applications for Persons Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2125
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau
Advisory Board.
BACKGROUND: The Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board is charged
with developing and coordinating visitor services in Orange County. It also implements
marketing programs that enhance the economic activity and quality of life in the community.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all seventeen (17) members, with representatives
from specific entities and fields.
The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME
POSITION
DESCRIPTION
Michael
English
Chapel Hill
Downtown
Partnership Staff
(Ex Officio)
Alex Bass
NC High School
Athletic Association
Hillsborough/Orange
County Chamber of
Commerce
Craig Lloyd
TYPE OF
APPOINTMENT
TERM
Partial Term
followed by
First Full Term
EXPIRATION
DATE
12/31/2026
(partial term)
12/31/2029
(First Full Term)
First Full Term
12/31/2028
Second Full Term
12/31/2029
2
Lisa Kaylie
Francesca
Talenti
Economic
Development
Advisory Board
Member
Orange County Arts
Commission
Member
First Full Term
(reappointment)
12/31/2029
First Full Term
(reappointment)
12/31/2029
NOTE: There are no other applicants eligible for these positions.
If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancy remains:
POSITION
DESIGNATION
At-Large
EXPIRATION
DATE
12/31/2027
VACANCY INFORMATION
Vacant since 09/15/2026
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE – DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards
needed to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board.
3
August 27, 2026
To:
Orange County Board of Commissioners
c/o Tara May, Orange County Clerk’s Office
From: Laurie Paolicelli, Director, Orange County Visitors Bureau
Cc:
Hannah Hemphill, Business Officer, Orange County Visitors Bureau
Please accept the following recommendations to the Visitors Bureau Board for consideration by the
Orange County Board of Commissioners.
•
•
•
Michael English is the new Executive Director for the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership. We
request that he be added to the board to fill the vacant seat that is designated for that
organization in our bylaws.
Alex Bass has been recommended to replace Karen Dehart as the representative for the North
Carolina High School Athletics Association. Dehart gave the recommendation in her resignation
letter, stating “Alex is UNC Chapel Hill alumnus, highly knowledgeable, and a thoughtful and
engaged professional who [Karen Dehart] believe[s] would be an excellent additional to the
board.”
We also request that the following members have their appointments renewed. All three
members consistently attend the meetings and contribute to the advisory board.
o Lisa Kaylie
o Craig Lloyd
o Francesca Talenti
Thank you and please let us know if we can provide any additional information.
Laurie Paolicelli
4
Name
Theodore Nollert
Donald Bryan
Craig Lloyd
Allison Reid
Lisa Kaylie
Matt Hughes
Creston Woods
Frederick Joiner
Ben Marklin
Heidi W. Dawson
Francesca Talenti
David YonkovichPutnam
Member or Applicant?
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board Members and Applicants
Gender Identity
Race/Ethnic Background
Age Range
Township
Male
White
18-34
Chapel Hill
Male
White
60+
Chapel Hill
Male
White
35-59
Cheeks
Female
White
35-59
Chapel Hill
Female
White
35-59
Chapel Hill
Male
African American
18-34
Hillsborough
Male
White
60+
Non-Resident
Male
African American
Chapel Hill
Male
White
18-34
Chapel Hill
Female
35-59
Non-Resident
Female
White
60+
Hillsborough
Member
Male
White
18-34
Non-Resident
Jon Hartman-Brown
Sally Greene
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
Alex Bass
Michael English
Amanda Frisard
Margaret Moriarty
Member
Member (BOCC rep.)
Male
White
18-34
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Applicant
Male
Male
Female
Female
African American
African American
Native American
White
35-59
35-59
35-59
18-34
Non-Resident
Non-Resident
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill
Also Serves on
Economic Development Advisory Board
Arts Commission
5
Page 1 of 3
Michael English
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Michael English
Phone:
2602 White Oak Ave.
Durham NC 27707
919-928-5352
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
Township of Residence: Out of County
Non-Orange County Resident
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
African American
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/a
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I bring a combination of experience in downtown management, economic development, urban
planning, business, and community engagement that is directly relevant to the work of the
Visitors Bureau Advisory Board. I currently serve as Director of the Chapel Hill Downtown
Partnership, where I work with local businesses, property owners, the Town of Chapel Hill,
Orange County, UNC-Chapel Hill, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders to strengthen
the vitality and overall experience of downtown.
I hold dual master's degrees in City and Regional Planning and Business Administration from
UNC-Chapel Hill, as well as a bachelor's degree from North Carolina Central University. My
professional and educational background has given me a strong understanding of how
destination development, placemaking, economic vitality, transportation, events, tourism, and
quality of life intersect. Through my current role and previous work, I have developed experience
building public-private partnerships, convening diverse stakeholders, and thinking strategically
about how communities can leverage their unique assets to attract visitors while benefiting
residents and local businesses.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am interested in serving because I believe Chapel Hill and Orange County have an exceptional
collection of assets; from our universities and cultural institutions to our downtowns, natural
resources, restaurants, arts, and distinct communities. I would welcome the opportunity to help
think strategically about how we tell our collective story and create experiences that encourage
people to visit, stay longer, return, and invest in our community.
6
Page 2 of 3
Michael English
My work with the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership also gives me a firsthand perspective on the
important relationship between tourism and the vitality of local businesses and downtown
districts. I see this board as an opportunity to strengthen coordination among organizations
working to promote the community and ensure that tourism efforts support a vibrant, welcoming,
and economically sustainable Orange County.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring a perspective that combines downtown management, urban planning, economic
development, business strategy, and community partnership. As someone educated at both
UNC-Chapel Hill and North Carolina Central University and who has lived and worked
throughout the Triangle, I also bring familiarity with different institutions and communities within
the region.
Importantly, I would bring the perspective of someone working directly with downtown
merchants, property owners, residents, public officials, university partners, and visitors. I believe
tourism decisions are strongest when they consider not only how to attract visitors, but also how
visitation affects local businesses, residents, neighborhoods, and the overall character of a
community. I would aim to bring that balanced, on-the-ground perspective to the board's
discussions.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT)
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My professional and educational background is closely aligned with economic development. I
currently serve as Director of the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, where my work focuses on
strengthening downtown vitality through business engagement, stakeholder coordination,
placemaking, public-private partnerships, activation, cleanliness, safety, and advocacy.
I hold master's degrees in both City and Regional Planning and Business Administration from
UNC-Chapel Hill, which has given me the ability to approach economic development from both a
community development and business perspective. I also hold a bachelor's degree from North
Carolina Central University. Throughout my career, I have been particularly interested in the role
that partnerships between the public, private, nonprofit, and institutional sectors can play in
addressing complex community challenges and creating economic opportunity.
My current role requires me to regularly engage with businesses, property owners, local
government, the university, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders. This
experience has reinforced my belief that successful economic development requires more than
attracting investment; it requires creating the conditions that allow existing businesses,
entrepreneurs, workers, and communities to thrive.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I would like to serve because I care deeply about the long-term economic vitality of Chapel Hill
and Orange County. Our community is experiencing significant changes and opportunities, and I
believe thoughtful economic development can help ensure that growth creates broad benefits
while preserving the qualities that make our communities distinctive.
Serving on the board would allow me to contribute my professional experience while gaining a
broader understanding of Orange County's economic development priorities. I am particularly
interested in helping identify opportunities to support small businesses and entrepreneurs,
strengthen commercial districts and downtowns, leverage our educational and institutional
assets, and build stronger partnerships across jurisdictions and sectors.
I would approach this role with a collaborative mindset and a desire to help the County think
7
Page 3 of 3
Michael English
strategically about both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I would bring a cross-disciplinary perspective shaped by experience in urban planning, business,
downtown management, and public-private partnerships. Much of my current work is focused on
the practical realities facing businesses and commercial districts, including the relationship
between the public realm, infrastructure, safety, cleanliness, customer experience, property
ownership, and economic activity.
I also bring experience engaging stakeholders with different and sometimes competing interests.
My perspective would emphasize the importance of connecting countywide economic
development strategies with the experiences of small businesses, downtowns, property owners,
institutions, and local communities.
Having been educated at both a public HBCU, North Carolina Central University, and UNCChapel Hill, and now working at the intersection of multiple public and private institutions, I
believe I can contribute a perspective informed by different educational, professional, and
community environments. I would strive to ask questions that consider who benefits from
economic growth, what barriers exist to opportunity, and how Orange County can build a
stronger and more inclusive economy.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/26/2026 12:37:54 PM
Date Printed:
8/27/2026
8
Page 1 of 2
Alex Bass
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Alex Bass
Phone:
222 Finley Golf Course Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27517
919-884-6835
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2025
Township of Residence: Non-OC Resident
Non-Resident Consultant
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
African American
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
My community service includes membership on a teacher of the year committee and on
the board of directors for a nonprofit organization addressing food and housing
insecurities.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As an academically and professionally credentialed educator and athletics administrator,
historian, and journalist, I strive to be a lead teacher, first and foremost, by being a leading,
lifelong learner. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in History from UNC-Chapel Hill and three
master's degrees in Teaching (MA, UNC-Charlotte), Educational Leadership (MS, Creighton),
and Technical Communication (MS, NC State). I am a nationally Certified Athletic Administrator
(CAA) by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. Helping others learn
about this community is rooted in learning about others. Thus, my two-way teaching and learning
endeavors in everything I do will help me in this capacity.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Integrating the very best of academics and athletics is a hallmark of K-12 and higher education
in Chapel Hill and Orange County. Contributing to the cultivation and enhancement of
programming conducive to imparting this legacy accented by a perpetually welcoming, inviting
spirit is a most desirable, service-driven opportunity.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My work in the aforementioned unique and interdisciplinary capacities enables me to view
situations through varying perspectives, all the while considering implications for a myriad of
stakeholders. My communications aptitudes will contribute to the amplification of varying
perspectives and celebrate how differing voices all are integral to identifying, pursuing, and
realizing harmonious, mutually beneficial opportunities and outcomes.
9
Page 2 of 2
Alex Bass
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/28/2026 10:26:03 AM
Date Printed:
9/2/2026
10
Page 1 of 2
Craig Lloyd
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mr. Craig Lloyd
Phone:
3103 US 70 W
Efland NC 27243
919-923-3988
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
1970
Township of Residence: Cheeks
County
Zone of Residence:
Male
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange County Historical Museum, Orange County Optimist Club, Hillsborough Chamber
of Commerce, Camp Chestnut Ridge Advisory Council etc
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
See previous answer
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Life long resident and volunteer in Orange County
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I believe my year of experience would benefit the board
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Not sure many resident that have lived here over 50 years are serving now
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am the Former State Director of MADD
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Believe my experience would be helpful
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My experiences are unique as it relates to alcohol education
11
Page 2 of 2
Craig Lloyd
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I'm building a park in Efland
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Believe my experience would be helpful.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Live in Northern Orange County
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/28/2024 10:31:27 AM
Date Printed:
8/28/2024
12
Page 1 of 2
Lisa Kaylie
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Lisa Kaylie
Phone:
3914 Sweeten Creek Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27514-9719
615-289-6814
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2009
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Democratic Women of Orange County - Acting President
B3 Coffee - Board Member
NAACP - Member
East High School PTSA - Member
Autism Society of NC Orange and Chatham County - Member
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
I've not served on an advisory board in the past.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT)
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have a strong business background and am active in the community.
I earned an MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler in 1997. I ve lived all around the United States and
also spent 5 years living and working in Austria and Europe.
I started my career after business school working in High Tech. For 18 years I ran a small online
retail company that was a subsidiary of a Belgian company.
I am currently the Executive Director of Extraordinary Ventures. Extraordinary Ventures is a local
nonprofit with the mission of running sustainable businesses with the philosophy that all people
are employable. We focus on creating employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and
developmental disabilities such as autism.
In addition to my work experience, I am very active in the community. My focus has been on our
public schools and disability rights. I have served in many leadership positions in CHCCS
schools, including being appointed to fill a vacancy on the school board. I have also had the
opportunity to serve on several nonprofit boards.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
13
Page 2 of 2
Lisa Kaylie
Orange County is my family's home and I care deeply about our community. Economic
Development is critical to the future of Orange County. It is not just important to our business
community. The taxes generated by our businesses enable all of the social supports that are
critical for our citizens, from our schools to our senior centers. In addition my interest in
supporting economic development, I am also interested in sharing the benefits of inclusive
employment. At a time when NC has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, disabled adults have an
unemployment rate of almost 80%. There is a lot of opportunity being lost when businesses do
not consider employing disabled adults.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My parents were immigrants and I bring the diverse perspective of a first generation American
who has also lived abroad.
I am also highly involved with the disabled community in Orange County. Disability is
experienced by people of all different ages, races, religions, genders, sexual orientations,
political affiliations, and socioeconomic status. Being active in this community exposes me to a
wide variety of different perspectives daily.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/26/2024 3:13:56 PM
Date Printed:
3/27/2024
14
Page 1 of 2
Francesca Talenti
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Francesca Talenti
Phone:
700 Orange High School Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
919-923-7720
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2001
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Hillsborough ETJ
Zone of Residence:
Female
Gender Identity:
White
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange County Arts Commission board member
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Arts Commission
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a practicing artist and have had a career as a professor in the arts.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
This board needs someone to represent the arts. I volunteered.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My specialty is media production, which is not generally represented on arts or tourism boards.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Arts Commission
Application Date: 8/16/2024
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I am a professor emerita of film production. I taught film production (fiction and animation) at the
University of Texas at Austin, and at UNC Chapel Hill. I also have my own ongoing practice in
the digital moving image, whether in projection design, inst
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
15
Page 2for
of wanting
2
Reasons
to serve on this board:
I'd like to contribute to the arts community here.
Conflict of Interest:
Francesca Talenti
Other Comments:
Applied for Arts Commission 8/16/2024 2:29:08 PM
Applied for Visitors Bureau Advisory Board 5/15/2026 10:26:05 AM
This application was current on: 5/15/2026 10:26:05 AM
Date Printed:
5/15/2026
16
Page 1 of 2
Amanda Frisard
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Mrs. Amanda Frisard
Phone:
117 Wild Iris Ln.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
602-369-0619
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2021
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Female
Native American
35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
State (of NC) Advisory Council on Indian Education (SACIE) community member
Triangle Native American Society
Chapel Hill Peoples Academy
Chapel Hill Police Peoples Academy
Booker Creek Adopt a Trail Volunteer
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My bachelor's degree is in political science with a minor in business administration. In addition,
I have an associate's degree in interior design. All of this education gives me the aptitude to
understand where Chapel Hill is and where it will be going socioeconomically.
Unique keynote, I lived in Chapel Hill from 1983-1986 while my mom was at UNC getting her
master's so I knew it before and now. I am also a NC native and understand the history of the
town.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Since I live in Chapel Hill town limits and have refreshers on how the town runs (Peoples
Academy and Police Peoples Academy certificates), I want to get directly with the town by
volunteering and offering my skills and service as Chapel Hill is growing/changing before our
eyes.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My participation would bring many outside the box mindsets; I am a female, citizen of a North
Carolina American Indian tribe, left handed, married stay at homemaker, parent to two college
students, survivor of a rare brain hemorrhage=arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and utilize the
town's free space-Bolin Creek trail everyday.
17
Page 2 of 2
Amanda Frisard
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT)
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My bachelor's degree is in political science with a minor in business administration. In addition,
I have an associate's degree in interior design. All of this education gives me the aptitude to
understand where Chapel Hill is and where it will be going socioeconomically.
Unique keynote, I lived in Chapel Hill from 1983-1986 while my mom was at UNC getting her
master's so I knew it before and now. I am also a NC native and understand the history of the
town.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Since I live in Chapel Hill town limits and have refreshers on how the town runs (Peoples
Academy and Police Peoples Academy certificates), I want to get directly with the town by
volunteering and offering my skills and service as Chapel Hill is growing/changing before our
eyes.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My participation would bring many outside the box mindsets; I am a female, citizen of a North
Carolina American Indian tribe, left handed, married stay at homemaker, parent to two college
students, survivor of a rare brain hemorrhage=arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and utilize the
town's free space-Bolin Creek trail everyday.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 6/11/2025 8:31:19 PM
Date Printed:
6/13/2025
18
Page 1 of 2
Margaret Moriarty
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name:
Name Called:
Home Address:
Ms. Margaret Moriarty
Phone:
327 Glendale Dr.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
571-228-8394
Email:
Year of OC Residence:
2014
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity:
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
Chapel Hill
C.H. City Limits
Female
White
18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
None. I am interested in volunteering with the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau
Advisory Board because of my personal and professional background. I have my BA from
the University of Virginia in Economics and an MBA with a Marketing Management focus
from NC State. I have 7 years professional experience in marketing. I love living in Chapel
Hill and am now at a place in my personal life and career where I would like to become
more involved in community organizations.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My undergraduate degree is in Economics from the University of Virginia and I have an MBA
with Marketing focus from NC State, as well as 7 years professional experience in marketing.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have lived in Chapel Hill for over 10 years and would love to work to promote Orange County to
both visitors and residents.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I believe that my educational background and professional experience as a marketing & sales
professional for global organizations would contribute to the board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
19
Page 2 of 2
Margaret Moriarty
I have lived in Chapel Hill for over 10 years and am a frequent user of the parks and trails in
Orange County for my personal use (I am an avid walker & long-distance runner) as well as with
my family (2 year old daughter and expecting baby #2 in January 2025).
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I would like to be a part of this board to ensure that Orange County s parks and recreation
resources are well-maintained, promoted, and continue to grow and succeed.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I believe that my experience as an Orange County resident for over 10 years who is a frequent
and passionate user of the local parks makes me a valuable contributor to this board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Chapel Hill Parks, Greenways and Recreation Commission
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have lived in Chapel Hill for over 10 years and am a frequent user of the parks and trails in
Orange County for my personal use (I am an avid walker & long-distance runner) as well as with
my family (2 year old daughter and expecting baby #2 in January 2025).
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I would like to be a part of this board to ensure that Orange County s parks, greenways, and
recreation resources are well-maintained, promoted, and continue to grow and succeed.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I believe that my experience as an Orange County resident for over 10 years who is a frequent
and passionate user of the local parks and greenways makes me a valuable contributor to this
board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/6/2024 6:50:09 PM
Date Printed:
11/7/2024
20
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 8:00 am Third Wednesday of every month except Jul. & Dec.
Contact Person: Laurie Paolicelli & Hannah Hemphill
Meeting Place: Varies
Contact Phone: 919-245-4323
Positions: 17
Description:
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
<div>This board is charged with developing and coordinating visitor services in Orange County. It also implements
marketing programs that will enhance economic activity and quality of life in the community. </div>
Theodore Nollert
First Appointed:
1
02/17/2026
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 02/17/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Chapel Hill Town Council
Number of Terms:
Gender Identity:
Male
18-34
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Donald Bryan
First Appointed:
2
03/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 03/07/2024
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Comm
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
11/19/2024
Gender Identity:
Male
60+
Expiration:
12/31/2026
Mr. Craig Lloyd
3
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Cheeks
At-Large
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Orange County/Hillsborough Chamber of Number of Terms:
Male
35-59
Expiration:
12/31/2026
1
Ms. Allison Reid
First Appointed:
4
11/19/2024
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 11/19/2024
Age Range:
Special Repr:
UNC Chapel Hill
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
02/25/2025
Gender Identity:
Female
35-59
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Ms. Lisa Kaylie
5
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment: 02/25/2025
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Economic Development Advisory Board- Number of Terms:
Female
35-59
Expiration:
12/31/2026
VACANT
First Appointed:
6
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
At-Large
Expiration:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
NC High School Athletic Association
Number of Terms:
Friday, October 2, 2026
12/31/2028
Page 1
21
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 8:00 am Third Wednesday of every month except Jul. & Dec.
Contact Person: Laurie Paolicelli & Hannah Hemphill
Meeting Place: Varies
Contact Phone: 919-245-4323
Positions: 17
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Matt Hughes
First Appointed:
7
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment: 11/18/2024
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Hillsborough
Hillsborough Twnshp
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Town of Hillsborough Board of Commiss Number of Terms:
Male
35-59
03/07/2024
Expiration:
12/31/2028
1
Mr. Creston Woods
First Appointed:
8
02/25/2025
Non-Res.Consultnt.
At-Large
Current Appointment: 02/25/2025
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
O/C Lodging Assoc.
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
02/17/2026
Gender Identity:
Male
60+
Expiration:
12/31/2027
Mr. Frederick Joiner
9
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 02/17/2026
Ethnic Background: African American
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Carrboro Town Council
Number of Terms:
Gender Identity:
Male
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Ben Marklin
First Appointed:
10
04/15/2025
Chapel Hill
At-Large
Current Appointment: 11/18/2025
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Alliance/Hist.Hillsborough
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
12/06/2021
Gender Identity:
Male
18-34
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Heidi W. Dawson
11
Gender Identity:
Female
Ethnic Background:
Age Range:
35-59
Current Appointment: 10/15/2024
Township:
Residency Req:
At-Large
Expiration:
Special Repr:
O/C Lodging Assoc.
Number of Terms:
2
First Appointed:
06/16/2026
12/31/2027
Ms. Francesca Talenti
12
Hillsborough
At-Large
Current Appointment: 06/16/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
O.C. Arts Commission
Number of Terms:
Gender Identity:
Friday, October 2, 2026
Female
60+
Expiration:
12/31/2026
Page 2
22
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board
Meeting Times: 8:00 am Third Wednesday of every month except Jul. & Dec.
Contact Person: Laurie Paolicelli & Hannah Hemphill
Meeting Place: Varies
Contact Phone: 919-245-4323
Positions: 17
Length: 3 years
Terms: 2
Mr. David Yonkovich-Putnam
First Appointed:
13
10/15/2024
Non-Res.Consultnt.
Ex-officio
Current Appointment: 11/18/2025
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Economic Development Staff - Town of
Number of Terms:
1
First Appointed:
10/06/2020
Gender Identity:
Male
18-34
Expiration:
12/31/2028
Mr. Jon Hartman-Brown
14
Chapel Hill
Ex-officio
Current Appointment: 06/16/2026
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Economic Development Staff - Town of
Number of Terms:
Gender Identity:
Male
18-34
Expiration:
06/30/2029
3
VACANT
First Appointed:
15
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
Ex-officio
Age Range:
Special Repr:
Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership Staff ( Number of Terms:
Expiration:
12/31/2026
VACANT
First Appointed:
16
Gender Identity:
Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background:
Township:
Residency Req:
At-Large
Expiration:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
At-Large
Number of Terms:
12/31/2027
Sally Greene
First Appointed:
17
Gender Identity:
Chapel Hill
Ethnic Background: White
Township:
Residency Req:
Age Range:
Special Repr:
County Commissioner
Friday, October 2, 2026
Female
12/10/2024
Current Appointment: 12/10/2024
Expiration:
Number of Terms:
12/31/2026
1
Page 3
23
Applicant Interest Listing
by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Laurie Paolicelli & Hannah Hem
Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Contact Phone:
919-245-4323
Mr. Alex Bass
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range:
35-59
Date Applied: 08/28/2026
Township: Non-OC Resident
Zone of Residence: Non-Resident Consultant
Also Serves On:
Mr. Michael English
Gender Identity:
Male
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range:
35-59
Date Applied: 08/26/2026
Township: Out of County
Zone of Residence: Non-Orange County Resident
Also Serves On:
Mrs. Amanda Frisard
Gender Identity:
Female
Ethnic Background: Native American
Age Range:
35-59
Date Applied: 06/11/2025
Township: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Also Serves On:
Ms. Margaret Moriarty
Gender Identity:
Female
Date Applied: 11/06/2024
Ethnic Background: White
Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range:
18-34
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Also Serves On:
Friday, October 2, 2026
Page 1 of 1
24
`ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN
Name of Board/Commission: Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory
Board
Report Period: January 2025-December 2025
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all volunteers
on Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to complete an Annual
Report and Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the activities each
board/commission has conducted over the past year and detail a plan for future activities.
These activities should be consistent with the board/commission’s assigned charge and
the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan). General
information about the Strategic Plan is available here.
Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information:
DR Bryan, Board Chair
[email protected]
919-880-1478
Primary staff contact:
Laurie Paolicelli, Executive Director
[email protected]
919-259-1658
1. How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and subcommittee meetings?
The board meets once a month, except for July and December, for a total of 10
meetings per calendar year.
2. Please briefly describe this board/commission’s assigned charge and
responsibilities. Board-specific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the
charge and responsibilities for each board/commission, are available here.
Tourism Marketing and Management
Since 1992, the Visitors Bureau has served as Orange County’s official destination
marketing and tourism management agency, operating with a dedicated staff of six
who work daily to promote Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough as welcoming
destinations for visitors, meeting planners, sports groups, and cultural travelers.
25
The Bureau:
• Researches visitor trends to respond with marketing programs that will
sustain demand.
•
Develops advertising and digital campaigns that drive visitors to Orange
County businesses.
•
Manages media outreach to build audiences and engagement at Orange
County events, from artist tours, bluegrass, historic programming and
sports and recreation.
•
Provides accurate travel information to thousands of visitors who walk in to a
Visitors Center funded through occupancy taxes and whom call, email and use
the online portal to answer questions about their visit to Orange County.
•
Supports major events, conferences, tournaments, and festivals that
contribute to economic viability and job creation in Orange County.
•
Collaborates with hotels, restaurants, small businesses, arts organizations,
UNC–Chapel Hill, and local governments to present a cohesive destination
message on key events and artistic and athletic programs taking place.
Board Leadership and Accomplishments
The Board led a forward-looking strategic planning effort, engaging more than two
dozen stakeholders and producing a roadmap grounded in community priorities
(available for BOCC download).
Under its leadership, the County:
• Maintained steady hotel occupancy and visitor demand
•
Secured the winning bid for the 2026 Savannah Bananas games—projected to
yield $9+ million in economic return to Orange County in April 2026.
•
Advanced a robust marketing and trolley campaign for UPROAR 2025,
contributing to record attendance
•
Launched video campaigns supporting small businesses
•
Produced essential visitor guides
•
Strengthened partnerships with Chapel Hill and Carrboro Town Managers
•
Advanced a major America 250 event and commemorative publication to be
released July 2026
26
3. What are your board/commission’s most important accomplishments during the
report period?
•
Strategic Planning: Led a comprehensive planning process with 25+
stakeholders, producing a roadmap for future tourism growth.
•
Hotel Performance: Helped sustain steady occupancy and countywide demand,
supporting a resilient lodging sector.
•
Savannah Bananas 2026 Bid Win: Secured a transformative event projected to
generate $9 million in economic return.
•
UPROAR 2025 Marketing Success: Funded and approved a marketing/trolley
initiative that boosted attendance and community visibility.
•
Small Business Support: Created video campaigns featuring local shops,
restaurants, and makers to direct visitor spending to independent businesses.
•
Visitor Guides: Produced guides that strengthen Orange County’s reputation as
a welcoming and accessible destination.
•
Municipal Collaboration: Engaged Chapel Hill and Carrboro Town Managers to
align strategies and deepen partnership.
•
America 250 Leadership: Approved a signature 2026 event and
commemorative publication celebrating Orange County’s contributions.
4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually.
Destination Marketing & Promotion
Year-round brand promotion, digital campaigns, social media, website management,
visitor guides, business-focused videos, and outdoor/arts/heritage marketing.
Campaigns helped bring larger out of town audiences to local events, increasing
spending and strengthening the local economy.
Strategic Planning & Industry Research
Ongoing hotel data analysis, visitor trend research, stakeholder engagement, and longrange planning. This information is helpful for new developers considering Orange
County for a future project.
Event Support & Sponsorship
Countywide support for arts festivals, Orange County Veterans events, Black Alumni
gathering in November 2025, bluegrass and musical cultural events, heritage
27
programming, and major agricultural events such as Hog Day, Salt & Smoke and
Sound, Farmers Markets, Gay Pride Carrboro event, LGBTQ messaging to name a few.
Interdepartmental Collaboration
Work with:
• Parks & Recreation – promote trails, parks, and greenways
•
Aging – provide trolley and tour programs accessible to seniors
•
Arts Commission – elevate cultural events and galleries
•
Agricultural Extension – highlight farms, markets, and agri-tourism
•
Preservation Initiatives – support heritage tourism
•
Sustainability/Clean & Green – promote tourism as a clean and green industry
•
Economic Development – drive hotel demand and attract visitor spending
•
Civil Rights & Inclusion – uplift diverse businesses and inclusive events
•
Veterans Affairs – provide public relations materials to Orange County Veterans
Committee.
Visitor Services
The Visitors Bureau uses a wide range of modern tools to help visitors navigate
and feel welcome. Its mobile-friendly, ADA-accessible website serves as a central
hub with real-time events, dynamic maps, trip-planning tools, and dining and lodging
information. Custom QR codes provide guided tours and while many digital kiosks at
hotels provide quick directions and attraction searches. Visitors Bureau social media
platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X now function as real-time
visitor-service tools, sharing trending experiences and answering questions on the spot.
Partnerships with local businesses extend visitor support even further, with restaurants,
hotels, museums, and shops distributing QR-coded maps, itineraries, and insider tips.
Outdoor-oriented navigation tools such as trail-mapping apps, greenway QR codes, and
kiosk stations at trailheads are also becoming essential, especially in communities that
value outdoor recreation like Orange County. The Visitors Bureau works with local
Parks and Rec Departments to learn about QR codes that offer self guided tourism
information.
5. Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out the
goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the
Strategic Plan is available here.
Diverse and Vibrant Economy
28
Our work directly advances the County’s goal to “attract and retain sustainable and
diverse businesses and visitors, strengthen employment opportunities, and diversify the
tax base.”
Highlights include:
• Strategic Planning: Ensures growth is intentional, data-driven, and aligned with
economic priorities.
•
Sustaining Hotel Demand: Supports hundreds of jobs and strengthens tax
revenue.
•
Major Events: Savannah Bananas and UPROAR bring new dollars and visibility
to the County.
•
Small Business Promotion: Directs spending to local entrepreneurs and
creative enterprises.
•
Visitor Guides and Services: Encourage longer stays, higher spending, and
repeat visitation.
•
Municipal Partnerships: Maximize tourism ROI through unified strategy.
•
America 250 Initiatives: Stimulate cultural tourism and raise Orange County’s
national profile.
6. Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and
commissions.
Tourism accomplishments are strengthened through active collaboration with:
• Parks & Recreation
•
Department on Aging
•
Orange County Arts Commission
•
Preservation & Heritage Initiatives
•
Sustainability & Clean and Green Programs
•
Agricultural Extension
•
Civil Rights & Inclusion
•
Economic Development
Tourism is a clean and green industry—it requires no new infrastructure, brings in
outside dollars, supports trails and outdoor recreation, provides seniors with trolley and
tour mobility options, uplifts local farms, and strengthens cultural and creative sectors.
29
7. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are
related to the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic
Plan is available here. If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
The Board expects to continue efforts that support a Diverse and Vibrant Economy,
including:
• Promoting major events to build attendance and strength the economy
•
Supporting large festivals and cultural programming
•
Expanding small-business visibility campaigns
•
Enhancing outdoor recreation and trail promotion
•
Advancing the America 250 celebration, culminating with a celebration July 4,
2026.
•
Strengthening partnerships with County departments and municipalities
•
Fiscal Impact: Staff time, marketing resources, event sponsorships (supported
by occupancy tax revenue).
8. What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the
upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC’s attention?
•
Rebuilding Town of Chapel Hill’s contribution to the County Visitors Bureau.
•
Auditing short-term rentals across platforms such as VRBO and Airbnb to
understand their impact on lodging tax revenue, housing, and visitor patterns.
The government’s own published record — read it yourself, then decide what to do about it.
Showing up is how towns win. Put it on the calendar before it slips.
Public comment is where cancellations start. Three minutes, plain words, your own story.
The facilities, the coverage, and the local record for this community.
Provenance
Where this record came from. Every source is listed, permanently.
- Agenda Watch · Oct 8, 2026
Permanent ID DKT-2026-003885 — this record is never deleted.
Record history
Every change to this record, logged as it happened.
- Oct 8, 2026 Filed on the Docket
- Oct 8, 2026 Full document archived — public record
← The full Docket · every meeting, vote, and action on the permanent record · also in the National Record Index.