A PUBLICATION OF THE NC LEAGUE OF MUNICIPALITIES Southern City VOLUME 69, NO. 1 • 1st Quarter 2019
Salisbury City Council Member Karen Alexander Time, Talent and Treasure 2017-18 Annual Report Summary Local Government’s Vital Role in Census • Energetic Keynote Speakers Focused on Future Readiness, Regional Partnerships, Grants, Broadband, and the Opioid Challenge • Round Table Style Breakout Sessions • Mobile Workshop • Trade Show with 60+ vendors & Vendor Theaters with deep dives into services • Rock the Block! Host City Event with Live Music and Local Food • Food, Fun & Door Prizes! • President’s Gala Featuring the Capitol Steps Comedy Group BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2017-2018
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 1 contents 6
5 Sanford Contributes to Megasite Effort Here We Grow feature story 15 Count on it: Local Government Has Vital Role in 2020 Census Population count helps decide resources flowing to localities 24 Ensuring You Have the Proper Insurance Protection NCLM pools begin appraisal process 6 Time, Talent and Treasure Salisbury City Council Member Karen Alexander says philanthropy comes 36 Hometown Care in many forms Brings Help to 120 Municipal Employees 12 Transportation, Broadband Top Focus of Effort helps cover Florence Municipalities for 2019-20 Legislative Session uninsured losses More than 200 attend Advocacy Goals Conference
37 Open Data Programs 17 Community Healer Actually Reduce Rep. Gale Adcock approaches public office with health in mind Record Requests Preferred Partners Spotlight 26 2017-2018 Annual Report Summary feature story The League enjoys another year of accomplishment
40 North Carolinians 34 Officer in Uniform Fill Ranks of NLC Granite Falls PD Sergeant a true superhero Leadership Meyer, Washington named 38 Five Easy Steps to Improve a City’s Cyber Defenses to BOD Solutions amid more cyber attacks
2 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 INSIDE
1 Board of Directors Southern City is a publication for and about North Carolina municipalities, 4 Speaking Out: The Commitment to Service published bimonthly by the North Carolina League of Municipalities 11 Facing Forward: Another Legislative Session is Upon Us in partnership with Innovative 22 Risk Management Services Board of Trustees Publishing, a national publisher of association and corporate 23 From the Trust Perspective: A New Time, a New Role magazines.
41 Talk of our Towns Volume 69 Number 1 44 Taking the Field: Establishing Values and Mission for the 1st Quarter 2019 21st Century Executive Director & Publisher: Paul Meyer Editor: Scott Mooneyham 12 Writer: Ben Brown
www.nclm.org
Southern City (USPS 827-280) is published bimonthly for $25 per year ($2 per year to member municipalities, $1 for single copies) by the North Carolina League of Municipalities Phone: 919-715-4000
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Southern City 150 Fayetteville St., Suite 300 Published February 2019 • Volume 69 Issue 1 • 2019 Published February 2019 • Volume Raleigh, NC 27601
ADVERTISING: For advertising inquiries, please contact Innovative Publishing, 844-423-7272 (toll-free), WRITERS THIS ISSUE 888-780-2241 (fax), or advertise@ innovativepublishing.com
USPS 827-280 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC 27676 and additional mailing locations.
Scott Mooneyham Ben Brown Director of Advocacy Communication Public Affairs Associate
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 3 Speaking Out The Commitment to Service
By NCLM President and Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara
ack in the fall, we published magazine also is moving to a quarterly We learn from mentors and others what was believed to be my publication schedule, putting it more as young people, absorbing advice Blast column as president in line with similar organizations as and ideas. We learn from experience, of this organization. It was one that we and they turn to more frequent use sometimes pleasant and sometimes looked back over the last year of of social media, podcasts and other not. And often, we learn without even accomplishment of your North Carolina communications to connect with recognizing that we are doing so. League of Municipalities, and how we members and the public. For me, my experiences as a young have continued to evolve into a mission- More than a year ago now, when I Marine were a part of this learning driven organization that is playing a key took the oath of office as president, I process. Then as a business owner in role in helping cites and towns meet knew that doing so was a commitment, Jacksonville. And then, being slowly the challenges created by tremendous one that involved both helping to pulled into community leadership roles economic and societal change. steward general League operations that touched on and drew from those Of course, that was before Hurricane and bolstering our advocacy efforts by past experiences. Florence, and the damage that the better connecting with legislators. The Through that learning and those past storm brought to many parts of North commitment extended beyond my experiences, you begin to recognize Carolina, and before we made the expectations with the extension of my needs in your community. And that difficult decision to postpone CityVision term, but I remain proud of the many builds that commitment to service. 2018, our annual conference. With that organizational accomplishments during Every municipal leader has their own decision came another: extending out that time. story, their own mentors and their own my term and those of our other officers That commitment, of course, is not so experiences, helping each to recognize and board members so that they would different from that made by all elected those community needs, how you can coincide with the annual conference officials – a commitment to service. help fellow citizens. and our annual business meeting now It is that commitment that makes Each of you has your own story. You planned for May. possible the ability to work together have your own mentors and experiences So, now, this column comes as what to better our communities – whether that helped you to see those community will be my final one in Southern City. that involves you and your fellow local needs. And those experiences led to You will notice that there are a few other leaders taking action locally or working your own commitment to service. changes in the magazine, including a through an organization like the League We all can take pride in that new column that will feature different to try to improve all cities and towns in commitment. But I also challenge all faces from the organization to let the state. locally-elected officials to think beyond you know a bit more about different None of us come to this idea of your city or town. aspects of League operations. The service without learning. continued on page 43
4 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Sanford Contributes to Megasite Effort
In each edition, Southern City will regularly feature one of the local stories uploaded by member municipalities to HereWeGrowNC.org as a part of the League’s campaign promoting investments by cities and towns that aid economic growth. To learn how your local story can be featured, go to HereWeGrowNC.org.
investment in sewer, the Moncure Megasite will be the most ready and quickest to the market of all sites in the Southeastern United States and the Carolina Core,” asserts Sanford Mayor Chet Mann. “Speed to market is crucial for companies in the 21st century global economy. Having a site that can meet their production timetable without risk to their schedule is essential to landing an OEM,” he says. The Moncure Megasite developments nicely tie in with Lee County’s new Central Carolina Enterprise Park, a he Sanford City Council strengths,” says Diana Hales, chair collaborative development between has awarded approximately of the Chatham County Board of the City of Sanford, Lee County T$12 million in construction Commissioners. Connecting the site to Government, and the private sector. contracts to extend the City of Sanford’s the Big Buffalo Wastewater Treatment The megasite is “the largest potential wastewater collection system to the is a fundamental component of making employment property in the state,” Moncure Megasite. Located near the it competitive across the state and notes James Crawford, former chair intersection of Old U.S. 1 and U.S. 1, the nation, she says. The megasite has also of the Chatham County Board of 2,500-acre North Carolina Certified Site benefitted from a $4 million Golden Commissioners. While increased is a cooperative endeavor between the LEAF Foundation grant awarded to employment will benefit surrounding City of Sanford and Chatham County. the City of Sanford to support sewer counties, it also accomplishes Governor It is expected to serve as an economic infrastructure. Cooper’s and the NC General development catalyst that will benefit The grant was part of the foundation’s Assembly’s mutual goals of job creation Chatham, Harnett, Lee, and Wake Major Site Development Initiative, and tax base expansion. counties, the central Carolina region, which aims to make North Carolina “An OEM locating at the Moncure and the state as a whole. megasites more competitive by Megasite would be a game changer “Working together with the City of investing in the infrastructure necessary for our community,” Mann points out. Sanford to fully develop the Moncure to appeal to original equipment “We believe this megasite will bring Megasite builds on both of our manufacturers (OEMs). “With this continued on page 43
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 5 Salisbury City Council Member Karen Alexander in the council chambers she designed for the city. The architect by trade did not charge the city for the services. Photo credit: Ben Brown
6 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Cover Story Time, Talent and Treasure Salisbury City Council Member Karen Alexander Says Philanthropy Comes in Many Forms
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
n giving credit, we often invoke visit with her in Salisbury was the local served a term as mayor. (In this city, all the architect. “The architect of....” bounty of giving and civic involvement. candidates run for council, and council Usually, it’s the single mastermind Pointing to revitalized buildings, public traditionally picks the top vote-getter or individual who did all the sculptures, park projects and other among them to be mayor.) She remains Iframing work to make something initiatives around town, she never on council, serves on the League’s Board happen. neglected to highlight how many of Directors, participates in volunteer And while it’s easy to get different people or agencies participated efforts and has a history of community- metaphorical with the fact that to make them so, no matter their role. focused positions. She said her family Salisbury City Council Member Karen “For a small town, as we are, we are always put a premium on public service, Alexander is indeed an architect by just so fortunate and so blessed to have and she’s carried that forward. profession and is working earnestly for so many philanthropic people -- that “If we are blessed, then we have to the appearance, structure and future of mindset -- whether it’s with money or bless,” Alexander explained. the city she cares about, it’s not in her their time and talent,” Alexander said. In December 2018, she gave the character to take sole or central credit “Time, talent and treasure,” she city council chambers its first design for any great development she’s worked continued. “I call it ‘T to the third update in decades by providing her on. power,’ and it works.” architectural services (at no cost). Instead, what Alexander repeatedly Alexander won election to the city She made sure to base it on resource- celebrated during Southern City’s recent council in 2013 and two years later friendly approaches and materials.
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 7 Salisbury City Hall, located in an historic downtown bank building. In fact, the bank’s vault is visible in the council chambers. Photo credit: Ben Brown
Today, it’s a slick, state-of-the-art chambers with audio and video componentry and modern lighting. (Fun side-fact: Salisbury City Hall is in an old bank building, and staff uses its vault as a paper archives room. The giant metal door is plainly visible in the council chambers.) That project came with admirable effort from city staff, from assembly to grant-writing, to keep costs low, she said. “As we all know, budgets are tight … so you have to find creative ways to achieve what you want,” Alexander That’s important for a city on a Alexander was mayor, but it was aging said. “As an architect, I have to deal with motivated growth curve. Salisbury, and needed updates. budgets all the time; the other passion is currently home to about 34,000 people, “So we created a steering committee planning.” already had a comprehensive plan when that was very diverse – young and old, racially diverse -- and every way we tried to do that to get these perspectives,” she said, adding that Introducing You being inclusive across the community with planning can minimize chances to Your Perfect Seat of unintended consequences. That plan Keep your body comfortable update is expected to go before council and your productivity high. in mid-2019. We are North Carolina’s preferred supplier Salisbury’s community values are for office furniture and seating. quickly apparent to visitors, especially The convenience of Five Hot downtown. In any direction are signs State Contract 001a New Seating of historic preservation, arts and small and in buying directly Options from us without the business. Residents are on sidewalk hassle of competitive bidding benches sketching on paper, metal are two big, bold reasons why customers choose us over the competition. sculptures hold down street corners We offer a wide selection of seating options, and squares, vintage brick murals are all priced at or below market prices. The lower total cost of ownership experienced well preserved (the logo of Cheerwine, by our customers as a result of our a hometown brand, is everywhere), and impeccable quality standards... well, that’s while nothing is bland or necessarily just a bonus. uniform about the area, there’s a Find your cohesion that feels intentional or hive- perfect seat on our web minded. site today! “We have a real emphasis on our 800.241.0124 downtown,” Alexander said, describing www.correctionenterprises.com Buycode: SOUTHERNCITY18
8 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Above left: This creative take on George Washington, who once visited Salisbury, is among many public art features around town. Above right: An historic downtown bell tower whose surroundings are being readied for a city park. Lower right: Downtown sketch artist Joseph Heilig shows his recent work. Photo credits: Ben Brown
the city’s outdoor sculpture program when Alexander was mayor in 2016. To keep Salisbury on the up, Alexander is one of many community leaders engaged with workforce development and ensuring residents have the skills that existing or prospective businesses need. And that’s part of the greater plan, with council making grants available for economic the care that city leadership has put She pointed out how orderly the development, to add with similar grants into the area in hopes of charming downtown business scene appears, from Rowan County and the state, “to newcomers and giving full-time thanks in some cases to façade grants do major expansions on some of our residents plenty to do, see and eat. This the city awards shop owners – another industries,” Alexander explained. “It’s North Carolina Main Street community example of partnership. The fine public very exciting.” has nearly 30 restaurants downtown in art around them (and extending beyond She’s proud that Salisbury is working addition to four live theaters, leading downtown) is orchestrated by a public not in isolation, but in the spirit of Alexander to pitch Salisbury as “Paris of arts committee. The U.S. Conference of regionalism, with the county and the Piedmont.” Mayors’ City Livability Awards honored its municipalities having signed a
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 9 “Declaration of Interdependence” while resources in a way where CIS opportunities through collaboration she was mayor. The area’s communities could directly impact the students’ and her inclusive definition of pledged mutual support in areas like opportunities,” said Alexander, adding philanthropy. economic development and quality of that internet access is absolutely “It takes everyone for a community,” life, knowing that the betterment of one “essential” now, as much if not more Alexander said. community helps others around it. than telephone service in its prime. (In It disappoints her to see divisiveness “We’re working together now, related news, the city by referendum in between political leaders in times where there used to be this sense of 2018 leased its own 10-gigabit internet that need a more plural approach, she competition,” said Alexander, adding system to a private company that is now added. That’s why she loves serving that’s another way to be inclusive with running the service and will pay the city at the local level, she said, because the community growth. a percentage of revenues.) needs of an individual community are On that note, she’s long been involved Greenway and parks development, often so apparent that they’re less likely with the local community development better assets for local education, health, to become political, and because anyone corporation, having served on its infrastructure, industrial recruitment can effect change, no matter their level board of directors for more than two and much more came into focus during of income or bureaucratic experience. decades. She said she’s designed many the afternoon of Southern City’s visit, “Everybody can contribute, and you of the area’s affordable houses pro bono, making for way more material than don’t have to worry about whether it’s “because I believe that they should fit available page space. But she never money,” Alexander said. “There are in to the neighborhoods, they should broke with the theme of building on other types of treasure.” SC be something beautiful and attractive.” She added that some of the homes completed 20 years ago still have the same occupants. “It makes me so happy,” Alexander said. While any member of the public might complain about shortcomings in a community, or one’s ability to effect change, Alexander doesn’t have a fear of stepping up and laying out a design. Seeing the homework gap in her county – made by students’ reliability on internet access and a lack of adequate service at home – she set up a program We’re proud to provide key pieces called Hot Spots, in which Alexander of North Carolina’s extensive rail allowed high school kids to come to system — including 317 miles of her office and use her internet service track that offer access for hundreds of companies, and direct economic to study and complete assignments. development investments that The program grew when she recruited help attract new businesses and partners who expanded Hot Spots to good jobs. Together, we’re building toward a bright future. other local businesses, and further when the local Communities in Schools (CIS) got a grant to give students hot-spot connections they could take home. “So, again, by cooperating and ncrr.com @NCRailroad collaborating, you’re leveraging
10 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Facing Forward Another Legislative Session is Upon Us
By Rose Vaughn Williams, NCLM Associate Executive Director of Public & Government Affairs
This column will feature faces and topics from around the League, bringing you the So many of those priorities perspective of different employees involved in providing the range of League services that focus on infrastructure of all help municipalities better serve their residents, as well as following hot-button topics types -- including that affecting affecting those services. transportation, storm water and the 21st century infrastructure challenge ne of the truly great things as the myriad of other issues that will of our time, broadband. That focus about working for a member- inevitably arise affecting municipalities. is understandable. We know that the Oled organization like the Those policy priorities were approved tremendous population shifts and League of Municipalities is that you late last year at our Advocacy Goals economic changes that have come to get to see up close how member Conference (see Transportation, pass over the past few decades have engagement and involvement can really Broadband Top Focus of Municipalities created significant infrastructure turn the tide on issues important to for 2019-20 Legislative Session, pages challenges, whether in booming those members. 12-14). As NCLM President Michael metropolitan areas adding new residents In 2017, as much work as I and my Lazzara remarked at the time, it is that every day or in the towns that suffered dedicated Public & Government Affairs collective involvement by towns and mill closings and property tax base team did to stop harmful, industry- cities of all shapes and sizes, working and job losses over 20 years and are backed billboard legislation from together with one voice, that gives these now attempting to reinvent their local advancing, it was really the involvement policy goals their power. economies. of municipal officials, calling or By having a goal-setting process Importantly, our legislators recognize otherwise contacting their legislative that involved well over 200 municipal the depth of these challenges. representatives to explain the issue, that officials, we can make the case to But even as strong and well-grounded made the difference. Those relationships legislators, regardless of where they as these policy priorities are, we must that each of you has with your legislators are from, that these priorities are recognize that we won’t get everything – whether personal, professional or representative of the needs and that we want. Like every advocacy simply as a representative of your aspirations of the cities and towns in organization, our political capital has its municipality – are so crucial. their districts. limits. So, we will have to make strategic As we begin a new legislative session, In that list of 17 Municipal Advocacy choices. I have little doubt that those connections Goals, I believe we have a strong and With your help, engagement and will again prove vital regarding so grounded set of priorities that legislators guidance, I am confident that we can many of the policy priorities approved will recognize as addressing meaningful achieve a lot in the legislative session by member cities and towns, as well needs that can help cities and towns ahead. So, let’s get to it. SC better serve their residents.
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 11 ransportation, affordable housing and broadband were among key focuses of the more than 200 municipal Tofficials who gathered in Raleigh in late November to approve advocacy goals ahead of the 2019-20 legislative session. In all, those municipal officials, representing more than 100 cities and towns, approved 17 Municipal Advocacy Goals during the League’s Advocacy Goals Conference. The approval of these legislative priorities marked the culmination of months of work by the League’s three policy committees, as well as the Gov. Roy Cooper, sharing the stage with League President Michael Lazzara, addresses organization’s Board of Directors, as League members at its 2018 Advocacy Goals Conference in Raleigh. Photo credit: Ben Brown Transportation, Broadband Top Focus of Municipalities for 2019-20 Legislative Session
By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
municipal officials considered, debated representative committees – that gives costs have increased. and refined dozens of proposed goals these goals power.” A separate goal approved by submitted by member municipalities. The approved legislative priorities municipal representatives calls for “This effort and this process is include one that calls for state legislation granting local governments so important because it allows us distributions for city-maintained roads, the authority to build broadband to speak with a unified voice,” said known as Powell Bill funding, to be infrastructure and to partner with NCLM President and Jacksonville sustained and grow over time, and private internet service providers using Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara. “By another more general goal calling for long-term infrastructure leases. That working as one, and speaking as one, additional funding for public transit measure falls in line with recent League we advance all. And it is that process and transportation programs. In recent efforts focused on creating better – coming together today and working years, Powell Bill distributions have broadband access for residents and on these goals collectively through our been flat, even as road maintenance businesses.
12 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 The conference included Gov. Roy appropriated by the state are a county or the legislature changes Cooper speaking to municipal officials sustained and distributions to its method of distributing sales tax about hurricane recovery, with the municipalities are increased and revenue. governor noting that Republicans grow over time. • Seek legislation to provide and Democrats set aside partisan • Seek legislation to boost funding municipalities with authority for differences to approve a comprehensive availability for public transit and additional locallycontrolled revenue recovery package. Cooper predicted transportation programs. options and flexibility in the use further cooperation as a result of the • Seek legislation to provide additional of those options, including – but November elections, and pointed grant funding to municipalities for not limited to – city-only sales tax, out that as Senate majority leader in equipment and facility needs for city occupancy taxes, prepared the late 1990s – when the Senate was public safety (fire, police, ems). meals taxes, and impact fees for controlled by Democrats and the • Support measures, such as transportation. House by Republicans – he has already additional funding, to enhance cities’ • Seek legislation that supports worked in a political environment ability to meet federal and state adequate, fair school funding where party cooperation was necessary. stormwater control mandates. between state and county in all He also praised municipal officials Fiscal Health and Economic Growth school systems across the state by for being on the front lines of hurricane repealing municipal authority to • Seek legislation that provides response and recovery. And Cooper fund schools. additional tools and financial endorsed the idea that municipalities • Support legislation which defends resources for addressing the need more flexibility to set their own the fiscal integrity of the Local affordable housing crisis. course. “I am not just saying this. Government Employees’ Retirement • Seek legislation to alter the current You will see this in my actions,” the System and its defined benefit statutes governing distribution of governor said. structure, promotes reasonable local sales taxes by requiring a one- Other speakers at the event were pension reforms that are prospective year delay in implementation when Melodee Colbert-Kean, past president of the National League of Cities and a City Council member from Joplin, Missouri, who spoke about her city’s recovery from a devastating 2011 tornado, and State Treasurer Dale Folwell, who addressed his efforts to ensure the fiscal integrity of the state and local government pension system. The goals, as approved, follow: Public Infrastructure • Seek legislation granting local governments the authority to build broadband infrastructure and to partner with private internet service providers using longterm infrastructure leases. • Seek legislation to ensure that the amount of Powell Bill funds Municipal officials from across the state gathered to shape and debate their advocacy goals. Photo credit: Ben Brown
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 13 in nature, and meets the needs of as special separation allowance Municipal Authority local employees, employers, and programs, to ensure that the liability • Oppose legislation that shifts retirees. of providing the benefit isn’t solely to taxpayers the costs of • Support legislation that will provide borne by the last employer. overseeing development and sufficient funding at the state • Support legislation to revise the completing development-initiated level for incentive programs such current methods of determining infrastructure. as a competitive film incentive economic needs that are used by • Oppose legislation that interferes program, state historic preservation the state to allocate funds so that with local management or tax credits, and the Main Street additional areas of the state in ownership of local assets. Solutions fund necessary to grow need may benefit from increased • Seek changes to the law governing jobs and the economy. economic development, jobs, and the disclosure and release of law • Only support legislation providing see more entrepreneurial innovation. enforcement recordings to clarify additional post-employment benefits • Support a system of spirituous that disclosure to a municipal to public employees that includes a liquor sales that maintains a local manager is allowed and to allow funding mechanism to fully support referendum about the decision to disclosure to a city or town council the cost and liability of the benefit sell, preserves local control over the or citizen review board in a closed and support the study of existing location and density of outlets, and session and under confidentiality post-employment benefits, such preserves the local revenue stream. agreements. SC
THINK CREATIVELY ACT COLLABORATIVELY LEAD STRATEGICALLY
UPCOMING COURSES Essentials of Economic Development February 13 • Kernersville, NC
Evaluating Manager and Board Performance The Local Elected Leaders Academy offers programs, workshops, and courses February 21 • Kernersville, NC designed to instill needed leadership skills in today’s municipal and county elected Strategic Planning for Elected Officials officials. Participants will learn how to set and achieve strategic goals, strengthen March 8 • Pittsboro, NC existing bonds, and facilitate new connections as elected officials.
REGISTER TODAY: CPLG.SOG.UNC.EDU/CPLG-FOR-ELECTED-OFFICIALS
Thank you to Prudential for their support of training for elected officials.
14 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Count on it Local Government Has Vital Role in 2020 Census
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
the every-10-year-census is important to that community’s future. Population and other demographic figures influence grant-pool access and other resources that help municipalities, counties and states. “This is not really something that we do to benefit the federal government,” said Governor’s Census Liaison Bob Coats of the N.C. Office of State Budget and Management. “It’s something that we do to benefit our own communities.” But rallying up public participation in the census is an enduring challenge. We may be used to the door-knocking part of a decennial census, and that’s coming up, but That’s why the Census Bureau is pulling this year will be the first to request survey responses online. Photo credit: U.S. Census Bureau out all the stops, carefully, to make 2020 a benchmark year. t’s one of the biggest federal with new features and challenges For starters, initial prep for the 2020 projects going, and arguably the that will set it apart from decennial Census began before the last one, in most impactful. Its results will headcounts of the past. 2010, with staffers noting elements that shape federal and state legislative And while it may be a federal could be improved upon or delivered Idistricts, public and private economic program, experts say local leaders have differently the next time around. The development choices, transportation a big hand in its outcome. Bureau has also done live tests of the and emergency planning, the sharing “They do know the populations. 2020 delivery and organizational of more than $675 billion in federal They know who’s within their methods with actual U.S. communities. money each year and, indeed, so community,” said Alex Jones, a close “The goal of the tests was to prove in much more – right down to the follower of census issues in his role as the systems and the operations for the neighborhood level. Local Democracy Initiative Manager census,” said Burton Reist, the Bureau’s The 2020 Census – to collect basic at the National League of Cities. chief of decennial communications. but useful data on every last person in Accurately documenting a community And at least one component is a big, the U.S. – is just a year away, coming as such with healthy participation in big deal.
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 15 education and nonprofit circles. Chapel Hill Mayor Pam Hemminger is among The estimates are showing, as of last year, them. “ Said Gov. Cooper, “I appreciate these about $1,623 per person per year in federal Commission members stepping up to work with community leaders and funds come back to North Carolina based partners across the state to encourage a full and fair count of all our residents-- on census counts in some way, shape or from our biggest cities to our smallest, form, so we definitely want to make sure rural communities.” The Census Bureau and these
everyone’s counted to bring those tax dollars complete-count commissions are “ preparing for public outreach and back to serve our needs – and that’s just education efforts to show how federal dollars. important solid census results are. “The estimates are showing, as of Bob Coats, Governor’s Census Liason last year, about $1,623 per person per year in federal funds come back to North Carolina based on census counts in some way, shape or form, so we “This will be the first census in which the point of collection all the way to definitely want to make sure everyone’s the majority of Americans are asked tabulation and processing.” counted to bring those tax dollars back to complete the census information He emphasized the data are not to serve our needs – and that’s just online,” said Sunshine Hillygus, a used in any way beyond statistics; no federal dollars,” said Coats. professor of political science and public personal information can be legally He added that census data helped policy at Duke University. That’s huge, shared. “We stress that continually,” tremendously in recent years in she said, because it may influence how said Reist. how governments deployed relief to individuals regard the census. But hesitancy to participate in the hurricane-ravaged areas. “Asking for information online is a decennial census may remain for “It really does have implications for difference experience than filling out a any number of reasons, which is why how much money a city does receive,” form,” Hillygus explained. “It can raise federal and state officials appreciate said Jones. “But really, it’s in the interest different concerns about privacy and the involvement of local government that not only your city gets counted confidentiality.” leaders who can help to reach well, but that your neighboring cities Reist said the Census Bureau and historically hard-to-count populations get counted, that your region gets partner agencies have worked hard and ensure communities are accurately counted, that your state, that your to ensure the online census response represented in the influential results. country gets counted accurately.” portal is safe and secure so respondents Different levels of government Census officials are encouraging can comfortably take advantage of across the U.S. are partnering with mayors and council members to begin cyber convenience. community representatives in having these conversations with their “Many government operations are “complete count commissions,” one residents. now conducted online, and we will of which Gov. Roy Cooper set up in More information is at census. ensure that people’s data are safe,” October 2018 with an executive order gov/2020census. Listen to Episode 60 Reist said. “We encrypt our data from and news release listing 24 members of the League’s Municipal Equation from government, faith, healthcare, podcast for a deeper look. SC
16 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Community Healer Rep. Gale Adcock Approaches Public Office With Health in Mind
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
isit Rep. Gale Adcock’s legislative profile on the website of the N.C. General Assembly, and you’ll see Vsomething different. While most members are dressed coat-and-tie or blouse-and-scarf in their photos, this lawmaker is in a white lab coat with a stethoscope slung around her neck. The photo and the reality of her actual job and her legislative job represent a perfect fit, said the nurse practitioner by trade. So much of the government’s policy portfolio intersects with health in one way or another. You can’t have a prosperous state without it. It informs and inspires her civic approach, helping keep the welfare of people in focus. And Rep. Gale Adcock balances her full-time job as a nurse practitioner with her other very full- so it also makes sense that she began time occupation as a state legislator. Photo courtesy of Rep. Gale Adcock her public-office experience at the local level, on the Cary Town Council, where Bringing local government experience opportunity to have more direct impact she applied her nurse’s sensibility to to the legislature – what made you on health policy. Being a nurse of over diagnose problems and work on difficult want to cross that bridge? 40 years and a nurse practitioner of over or time-sensitive situations. It was a hard decision to make. I had the 30, I have a great interest in that Rep. Adcock agreed to meet up with been on the Cary Town Council for and the other state policies that have Southern City and discuss that tie-in, seven years, and I really enjoyed that a direct impact on health, although how local government experience work. And even as much as the work, I they’re not labeled health -- those benefits her as a legislator, and what enjoyed the people that I worked with, social determinants of health: how compelled her to run for state elected the six other members of council and much education someone gets and office in the first place – all while the staff. But moving from the local how difficult it is or not difficult it is to maintaining a busy career in healthcare. level to the state level gives me the get an education, leading you to being
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 17 “So I look at everything through a local government lens, as well as through a nursing and health care lens. And I’m looking for things that will help local governments
do their job and help them take care of “ their citizens...
Rep. Gale Adcock
able to be employed in a way that can support yourself and your family. And we know education level and income level track with good health outcomes. Rep. Adcock in downtown Cary. Photo credit: Ben Brown That was a big piece. And the other part, our district at the time ... was not being Because I read bills with an eye toward could hurt local government. I represent represented in a way that I thought it what impact, if any, good or bad, will three towns in my district -- Apex, Cary, should be, and so when approached to this bill have on local government. Is Morrisville -- and I reach out to staff and run, I said “OK.” it something that is kind of expressly council of those three municipalities stated in the bill? Or is it nuanced to and I ask, have you seen House Bill Getting to the legislature, can you where you have to know what you’re Fill-in-the-Blank? What do you think think of times when having that local reading to understand it? So I look at about Section Three? The way I read government or nursing appreciation everything through a local government it, it looks like it’s going to inhibit your came into play? lens, as well as through a nursing and ability to do whatever, and they will give Oh my gosh, every day. To be honest, health care lens. And I’m looking for me great feedback -- sometimes on the in addition to the way I look at issues things that will help local governments floor of the House as we’re getting ready -- nurses are good critical thinkers -- my do their job and help them take care of to take a vote. Because, as you know, time in local government really informs their citizens, development of land and often, the (legislative) calendar was everything I do in the legislature. all those things, as well as things that
18 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 one group of bills, and you don’t know In the days before your local elected had when I ran the first time. I didn’t that a bill just got heard in (committees experience, were the people of Cary have the same recognition that one of like) Local Government or Judiciary already familiar with you? Whether my opponents had … but what I lacked or Transportation, and it’s coming to as a nurse or....? in that I made up for because of my you for a vote and you look at it and They knew me as a nurse, but I had nursing background. You know, nurses go, “Oh my gosh. This wasn’t discussed not been as civically involved as many are pretty fearless people. Any time in caucus.” People who haven’t been in people who had run for council. Many you walk into a room with patients .... local government often don’t pick up on people have served on Planning and you don’t know what you’re going to these things. And my job of course is to Zoning (commissions), or have served find. You’ve got to be fast on your feet, serve the citizens of my district, but it’s on Parks and Rec, or had gone through you’ve got to be quick-thinking. I can get also to help the towns of my district do their local school of government, people to talk to me about things that their jobs.... I actually think it should be which is a Town of Cary thing. A lot of are difficult to talk about often. So those a prerequisite that you have some kind folks who had run for office had done things really helped me a lot the first of local government experience before those things, and I really never had the time that I ran for office. you run for the legislature (laughter), opportunity because I had two young Looking back at your time in local whether that’s your town or city council, children and a full-time job, which I office, what stands out in memory as, school board, county commission -- still have, that kept me traveling a lot. “This is something we got done”? something. I felt that was the only disadvantage I First of all, I love the way you asked that question. “This is something WE got done.” Because so often I hear politicians say, “Look what I did.” There’s nothing one person does. Even the mayor. Nobody does anything by themselves. Some of the things I was able to be part of, particularly, was downtown revitalization. The acquiring of the land for the downtown park took many years Governmental/Municipal Law and predated my term of council at the Workers’ Compensation beginning, but it was brought home Eminent Domain/Condemnation during my time on the town council Utilities Law and that took a lot of fortitude and a lot of money, because the land prices Environmental Law kept going up. And when we got to Corporate Law that last parcel, it was very expensive. Employment Law And there’s a part of any government Estate Planning or group decision, where you feel like you just don’t know if this is going to be the biggest good thing we ever do or worst thing we ever do. And you WILSON ● RALEIGH ● KINSTON have to have a lot of faith and you have www.cauleypridgen.com to have guts. Of course, that led to the development of that first critical acre of TOLL FREE: 1-877-641-8848 the park, which is where the fountain is
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 19 and the gathering space and... that was a really great thing and many good things are going to come from that. Prior to that was the decision of the town to redevelop the old Cary High School and turn it into the Cary Arts Center. The old high school had been purchased by the town many years ago and it was falling down. And so right in the heart of the recession, our council made the decision to put that building out to bid for renovation, and we got criticized by many who thought you shouldn’t be doing this in a recession…. Well, the bids came back way under what we thought we would have to spend, and we got this wonderful result that’s like a hub of the community.
Rep. Adcock says it’s vital to close the “homework gap” with quality broadband access in In that spirit of getting things done every home. “It’s critical for education,” she said. Photo courtesy Gale Adcock together, what are you looking forward to in the legislature in 2019? I’m looking forward to working with a you away. There’s a federal law ... that are often the biggest employer in the lot of the folks I’ve worked with the last says (if) you come in, I have to take care community..... On top of that, trying four years, and that’s on both sides of of you. I may not take care of everything recruiting a business into your county the aisle…. We have relationships and you need done, but I have to take care when you don’t have hospital. To me, we can agree to disagree and we can of your most emergent problem.... that is a huge thing we can do to help also take those disagreements and work What doesn’t happen is their chronic individuals, communities, business, on things. Particularly I’m interested illnesses aren’t diagnosed and treated, and the state in terms of economic in increasing our citizens’ access to their hypertension, their diabetes, their development. health insurance. Because we have at depression, and then they go on to least a million people, in a state of 10 become extremely sick, and it has huge What else fits into that? What other million people, who don’t have access to impact on themselves, their families elements will help communities grow health insurance, and when you don’t and their communities. By extending, our state? have access to health insurance, many in however form or forms in takes, The second thing is broadband. bad things happen. One is you either extending health insurance to people, Broadband is absolutely necessary if don’t get any care until you’re so sick it not only helps individuals, but it will you’re going to have access to education. or near death it becomes an expensive help our hospitals, which are getting Because we have kids -- all the schools proposition that could cost you your huge amounts of uncompensated care, are connected, but they get home and life. But also you seek care in places and it’s killing them financially…. At they can’t do their homework. So, the that really are not the most appropriate these rural hospitals, it could be their homework gap. It’s critical for education, places for you to seek care. And that death. And so that is certainly bad for and it’s critical for healthcare, healthcare usually is your only recourse with no the hospital, and it’s bad for the patients delivery, but it’s also critical for business. health insurance: the emergency room. who have nowhere to go, but it’s also bad Because you can’t push business or Because emergency rooms cannot turn for the communities because hospitals economic development into an area
20 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 that doesn’t have broadband. Those a little insight on that. This comes from happens one-on-one in the community things are so connected. And it’s not both my nursing background and over a cup of coffee or a sandwich for just about the new guy on the block. It my local government background. It lunch or barbecue for dinner, where you truly is about helping current businesses starts with relationships. If you show talk and you don’t even ask for anything. survive. Most business in our state up in your legislator’s office as a town You find out about each other’s families. are small businesses. But those small council member or a staff member, What kind of hobbies do you have? businesses together are the backbone of and the only time we see each other What are you interested in? What’s the community.... You need broadband is when something is critical -- like in your background that I might not for a lot of reasons. the only time you see your healthcare know? And then when you go to ask for provider is when you’re having a heart something -- they go, oh, I know Ben, Is there something I haven’t attack -- it’s kind of hard to take care of because he comes from my neck of the asked that you think is important all that other stuff. So the best place to woods and his dad and my dad went to between local governments and the start is before things become critical, Rotary together, and I’ve talked to Ben legislature? with relationship-building. I know the about other issues and I know that he Here’s the question -- How do local League really works hard at this. Beyond always thinks things through. It takes a governments help their elected House those formal League days where you lot of time. It’s not a one-time thing. SC and Senate members understand more come to the General Assembly and meet of what they’re up against? And I have with us, relationship-building usually
When it comes to architecture and construction for municipal buildings and community spaces, integrated DESIGN BUILD is the way to go. Bobbitt has delivered state-of-the-art facilities for municipalities across the Carolinas. View our portfolio on our website and contact us to learn more.
Turn to the experts to BUILD your community bobbitt.com facility, where government and people connect.
THINK. DESIGN. BUILD.
a builder
BDB_Southern_City_DRAFT_2018_5-11_build.indd 1 5/11/2018 2:51:46 PM
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 21 Risk Management Services Board of Trustees 2017-2018
Chair Vice Chair Steve Maher Jody McLeod Mayor, Waxhaw Mayor, Clayton
Miles Atkins Joe Gibbons Martha Sue Hall Mayor Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Mooresville Lenoir Albemarle
Angela Kirkwood Glenn LeGrande William Morgan Director of Human Risk Manager Council Member Resources, High Point Durham Statesville
Richard Olson S. Mujeeb Shah-Khan Richard Woodruff City Manager City Attorney City Manager Elizabeth City Monroe Jacksonville
Ex-Officio Paul Meyer, Executive Director NC League of Municipalities
22 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 From The Trust Perspective A New Time, a New Role
By Bryan Leaird, NLCM Associate Executive Director of Risk Management Services
s a new year begins, I am of the Law Enforcement Risk Review. operations, including oversight of excited to serve the members of Risk control staff now reviews law transit police operations. I was also Athe League of Municipalities in enforcement policies, procedures and responsible for managing CATS’ my new role as the Associate Executive training to help our members comply compliance with Rail Safety Oversight, Director of Risk Management Services. with current case law and industry best Department of Homeland Security, Some of you may already know that I practices. As a result, the League is Transportation Security Administration, come to the role with a little knowledge now able to offer our members valuable and Occupational Safety and Health and background about the League, Risk services such as police driver training, regulatory requirements. Management Services and insurance use of force training and constitutional While with the City of Charlotte, and municipalities, having most recently law courses. The risk review has been I also served 8 ½ years in the Risk served as the League’s Director of Risk well received and was endorsed by the Management Division. In that role, I Control for nearly seven years. Overall, North Carolina Association of Chiefs of worked as the Risk Control Manager I have nearly 25 years of experience in Police. and was responsible for managing risk various areas of municipal operations. Another major focus over the last control services for the City of Charlotte, During my tenure as Director of several years has been developing tools Mecklenburg County and the Charlotte- Risk Control, I am proud of just how to analyze the large volume of data Mecklenburg School System. much we were able to accomplish in associated with workers’ compensation I also have experience in law terms of helping members limit liability and property and casualty claims. These enforcement, having worked seven exposures, both saving them money and tools have allowed risk management years in state and local law enforcement making employees and residents safer. consultants to identify target areas for positions. One of my primary focus areas has loss control activities and expand the As we push into the future, I look been on liability exposures associated consulting services we provide for human forward to working with the team of with law enforcement operations. In resources and employment liability. League professionals that supports the 2012, I formed the League’s Police My time at the League was only insurance programs and our goal to Chiefs Advisory Committee to assist the latest phase of my professional work as one while advancing all. With in the review of claims and evaluation involvement with local government. direction from the insurance pools’ of training programs to help police Prior to joining the League, I served Board of Trustees, we will continue to departments reduce accidents and as the General Manager of Safety and evaluate the workers’ compensation, injuries. Security for the City of Charlotte’s transit property and casualty and health A significant accomplishment of system (CATS). My responsibilities insurance programs to try to make each the committee was the development included managing all aspects of the best it can be. SC safety and security for bus and rail
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 23 Ensuring You Have the Proper Insurance
Protection Basically, we want By Kristin Milam, NCLM Creative Services Strategist to make sure that our members have he past year has been a busy one carried by each member were accurate for the League of Municipalities’ and current,” explained Bryan Leaird, exactly the coverage TRisk Management Services, Associate Executive Director of Risk none more so than the Property and Management Services. “We analyzed a protections they Casualty Trust. Not only did we work lot of data and evaluated our exposure need, and we have through – and are still handling – the levels to determine if an on-site aftermath of two major hurricanes, but appraisal process was necessary and the information we 2018 also marked the completion of the beneficial to members and the trust. In first year in a five-year appraisal process the end, we decided this review process need to make that for our member cities and towns. would be worth the time and expense, So, what does that mean exactly? and ultimately better protect members.” happen. Basically, we want to make sure that League staff began working directly our members have exactly the coverage with cities and towns and other protections they need, and we have insured members to go through their your town owns? Aligning property the information we need to make that coverages, making sure that everything schedules is important to do frequently happen. “In 2017, the League engaged a on paper aligned with the reality onsite. – and members are reminded to do so company to begin a five-year appraisal For example, are the properties that annually upon renewal and throughout process in order to ensure the values your policy covers still the properties the year – but sometimes things are
24 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Photo credit: iStock “While maintaining accurate Finally, simply having a property values is a direct goal, the comprehensive and accurate Statement benefits extend beyond what someone of Values is essential to ensuring that might think of when they hear the you are getting the best value for your word ‘appraisal’,” adds Leaird. “Our coverage, meaning we don’t want our underwriters, loss control staff and members paying to cover properties reinsurance providers benefit greatly that they no longer own. Even more from the enhanced knowledge of important, is the opposite concern – the exact nature of our members’ the risk that a property isn’t included in exposures.” Details on roof age, frame the coverage and not realizing it until and type go a long way with regard after a loss occurs. to how properties are viewed and While systematic reappraisal rated in the reinsurance world. Other inspections require staff commitment property-specific data about HVAC and participation on both sides of the systems, recent upgrades, structural process, the return on that investment details and life-safety concerns all help provides better financial protection and underwriters and loss control staff risk management for the trust and its do their job better – and that helps us members. SC better protect members. inadvertently left off or added without adjusting the policy. Likewise, even if a property is included on the schedule, is its value accurately reflected? Unreported additions, changes, renovations, demolitions and sales of property can Academy make the property schedule ebb and flow, but the appraisal process also gets at the changes that have occurred Basic Code Enforcement and Overview for that affect replacement costs. For Staff and Part-time Enforcement Officials example, a town could have added Emergency Services Personnel – Is this a a new fire station to their property Code Violation and what should I do? schedule when it was built 10 years ago, Dealing with Public Nuisance Violations but our appraisal process is meant to and Chronic Violators catch the fact that replacement costs Junked & Nuisance Vehicle Enforcement have increased in that time. The cost Minimum Housing Code Enforcement to construct a new fire station today Non-Residential Buildings & Structures Enforcement is significantly higher than it was just seven or eight years ago because of increased construction costs, both For Details or to Schedule a Training nationally and in the state, as well as Call: 704.933.0772 new design standards that have evolved And ask for: Patti Rader, Manager & COO over time. John Ganus, VP Code Enforcement Division
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 25 2017-2018 North Carolina Annual League of Municipalities Report
Summary 2018 Annual Report
Annual Report 2018.indd 1 12/14/2018 4:03:39 PM
The North Carolina League of Municipalities has released its 2017- Preferred Partner program and a new 2018 Annual Report, which accounts for a full range of organizational “Member 360” dashboard of individual activities, an examination of finances and an outlook from NCLM leaders. member services gave cities new This condensed version of the report provides most of the content from services and new ways to look at the the full version. You can find the full version at https://www.nclm.org/ resourcelibrary/Shared%20Documents/Annual%20Report%202018-Final- services they receive. NoCuts.pdf or you may contact Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public The 2017-18 year saw the League Affairs, at (919) 715-9768 to obtain a hard copy. increase its level of thought leadership to new heights with the release Advancing All economic and demographic landscape of “Leaping the Digital Divide,” a A consistent theme for the North in North Carolina. comprehensive report on broadband Carolina League of Municipalities In that vein, the new Municipal access co-authored by League lobbyist during the 2017-18 year was the Operations Consultants program Erin Wynia and national experts. The expansion of League-member services, created a new standard of field-level report was rolled out at a March news focusing both on the effectiveness and assistance for cities and towns, with conference, to much publicity, as the value of these services for member four regional consultants meeting League embarked in an initiative to cities and towns. It could be seen in individually with municipal officials in seek state policy changes that better how the organization exercised new their municipalities – all free of charge enabled public-private partnerships levels of thought leadership, in the – to help with finance and operational that could bring about faster and more sharing of best practices utilizing new challenges. reliable Internet service in more areas expertise and new communications A new Opioid Solutions Toolkit of the state. formats, and through the range of provided members with real-world Working under a revised Risk League consultations. With this focus, solutions and advice from law Managed Service agreement, the three NCLM was delivering at a strategic enforcement and others on the front insurance pools and other League level that emphasized member needs lines addressing the opioid crisis in departments worked more seamless amid a changing and challenging the state. Meanwhile, an improved together, the result seeing all three
26 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 pools – particularly the Health Benefits And during the 2018 legislative Political Advocacy Trust – exceed new member goals session, cities and towns saw the The 2018 legislative session came while thwarting competitive threats. passage of legislation that promises to and went as quickly as any in recent RMS trustees approved their own reduce blight, the approval following memory, as legislators were intent strategic plan, while law enforcement months of work on the issue by League on getting back home as quick as programs designed to limit liability staff with legislators, municipal officials possible given a very uncertain political exposure were expanded. and other stakeholders. landscape headed into the fall elections. The first ever Town & State Dinner The formation of the N.C. Mayors That early ending came with the help was a huge success with legislators Association, a League affiliate group, of a truncated budget process that and League members, allowing provided all mayors in the state left individuals and organizations, networking and the breaking of bread with networking and idea-sharing including the League, with much less among state lawmakers and their opportunities. opportunity to weigh in on the budget’s constituent municipal officials, an In all, League staff organized and components before the package event that highlighted how state and held more than 87 events consisting received floor votes in the House and local government can work together of in-person trainings, meetings and Senate. for common purposes that improve conferences for affiliates, along with the While the governor vetoed the citizens’ lives. More than 200 League League’s annual conference, CityVision approved budget, the legislature’s member-city representatives attended, 2017, held in Greenville. supermajority quickly cast override along with more than 100 legislators. Operationally, the League overhauled votes and put the plan in law. Cities Meanwhile, NCLM intervention and redesigned its website, upgraded and towns did see wins, however. in the Duke Energy rates led to a financial systems, created electronic They included: settlement and decision that saved invoicing for League customers and • The adjusted budget maintained over 384 towns and cities more than an online payment system for League funding levels for municipal $2 million a year in energy costs members and affiliates, while holding transportation projects and water while paving the way for LED light membership dues steady with no price and sewer work. conversions and even more savings. increases. • The budget provided more than $3 million in revitalization grants for certain downtowns. It identified specific local economic development projects for aid. It transferred $60 million to disaster recovery, including $10 million for infrastructure grants that local governments can access. • Local governments picked up a new tool for fighting commercial, industrial and residential blight, in a bill setting up a new process called “vacant building receivership.” It will allow a local government, under certain circumstances, to petition the court to appoint a receiver to take Effective political advocacy and improving state-local relationships continued in 2017-2018. over management of the property Photo credit: Ben Brown and make improvements.
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 27 • The HOPE Act, building upon previous legislation, both tightens criminal penalties and creates procedures to allow law enforcement to better access pharmacy and other information that could indicate violations. The plan will also invest annually in naloxone supplies and community-based drug treatment and recovery services, while funding efforts to destroy unneeded prescription drugs. • Another bill affecting substance abuse would help address a League goal of lessening the strain on local law enforcement when it comes to Local leadership is key to making progress and addressing community needs. Photo credit: Ben Brown custody of those with behavioral and mental health issues. The legislation gives law enforcement officers more called development impact fees. It and full vetting of proposals. League flexibility when they take custody of clarified the authority to use system staff and leadership spent time letting and transport individuals subject to development fee revenues to repay legislators know of specific concerns an involuntary commitment order. bonds, shortening the window of created by policy provisions that It also calls for more collaboration time for projects to be included in received little vetting, and of plans to between local mental health the financial analysis that informs continue working to address them. management entities and law the fee amount, and stated more enforcement in developing plans for precisely the timing for payment of Duke Energy Rate Case how these commitments work. the fees. While much of the League’s • A consensus update was approved Those gains, though, did not hide the advocacy work focuses on the North to 2017’s legislation that put into law fact how difficult the truncated budget Carolina General Assembly, its efforts uniform authorization for water and process and brief session hindered in another area – before the N.C. sewer system development fees, also the ability to seek legislative changes Utilities Commission – may have led to some of the most significant results for cities and towns over the last year. An agreement reached between the N.C. League of Municipalities and Duke Energy Carolinas should lead to substantial benefits to cities and towns in western North Carolina when it comes to street lighting and energy savings associated with newer street lighting technology. The settlement was reached as part of the Duke Energy Carolinas (DEC) rate case before the North Carolina Utilities Commission
28 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 after the League intervened on behalf Observer, was co-authored by League of its members and their interests. Legislative Counsel Erin Wynia. The Also, the Utilities Commission has League will continue to work with Leaping the Digital issued a final order granting Duke stakeholders and lawmakers on this Divide Energy Progress (DEP) a much lower important issue. Encouraging Policies and Partnerships to Improve rate increase than the company had Broadband Access Across North Carolina
Erin Wynia, N.C. League of Municipalities Judicial Advocacy requested for customers in the eastern Joanne Hovis, CTC Technology & Energy part of the state and including other FY 2017-18 was among the busiest in benefits to cities and towns. It was also the history of our Appellate Advocacy a case in which the League intervened. Program. The program involves both Street lighting was not as critical a part the filing of amicus (friend of the of that case as in the DEC case, as rates court) briefs on issues of statewide and technology conversion processes importance to municipalities, and were already more favorable. technical assistance designed to help In the DEC case affecting western The report, “Leaping the Digital Divide,” cities better craft and position their focuses on policy changes for better North Carolina, the settlement will broadband access and demonstrats the arguments for eventual success at the lower existing rates for traditional League’s commitment to being a statewide thought leader. appellate level. The League filed an street lighting for cities and towns by amicus brief in one case and provided over $2 million annually. It should also legislators on hand for remarks. substantial technical assistance in ten pave the way for faster, more efficient Including Rep. John Szoka of others. conversion to LED technology, saving Fayetteville, League President The League filed an amicus brief money for municipal taxpayers and and Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem in Meinck v. City of Gastonia before leading to more efficient energy use. Michael Lazzara, Angier Mayor Lew the N.C. Supreme Court in a case Weatherspoon, and Bolton Clerk involving the lease of a downtown Leaping the Digital Divide Jacquelyn Hampton, the report’s building to a nonprofit arts program. We know resilient broadband supporters laid out the case for more In a suit over an injury on the property, internet access is the missing or widespread broadband infrastructure, the Court of Appeals ruled that the lacking ingredient with so many which is possible on the strength of leasing arrangement made the activity communities’ ambitions. We call it the public-private partnerships as we all proprietary--even though it operated “digital divide” or the “broadband gap” stand as stakeholders. “Broadband is at a loss for the city--and therefore not as we ponder how to connect these crucial 21st century infrastructure, subject to a governmental immunity unserved or underserved communities no different than water and sewer, defense. In a big win for cities, the to the modern internet speeds that electricity and roads,” Lazzara said. Supreme Court reversed in this case businesses and residents increasingly Representative Szoka agreed, adding of first impression, finding that the need to succeed. The League took it’s “absolutely necessary that we have revitalization effort in question was a enthusiastic steps forward to close to take the actions required to connect governmental function and the city this gap on March 21 with the release to every last house on the last dirt was entitled to assert immunity as a of a report offering effective policy road, from the mountains to the sea defense. Filing jointly with the N.C. solutions. “Leaping the Digital Divide: in this state, to afford our citizens the Association of Defense Attorneys, Encouraging Policies and Partnerships opportunity to fully participate in a the League drafted the governmental to Improve Broadband Access Across global economy.” immunity portion of the arguments on North Carolina” debuted at a press This report, which received which the Court’s opinion ultimately event inside the Legislative Building prominent media coverage including rested. with municipal officials and state a supportive editorial in the News &
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 29 In providing technical assistance, flooding, the Supreme Court applied beer can be a catalyst for economic the League’s help may include legal principles of statutory construction development, as breweries like his have research, review of the record, to reverse a Court of Appeals holding driven revitalization in towns across formulation and drafting of arguments, favorable to the city and remanded the state. editing of briefs and motions, and the case for further consideration; Regionalism also came into focus, moot court sessions to prepare counsel Surgical Care Affiliates v. N.C. Industrial with speakers who discussed how for appellate oral argument. Commission involved a challenge to the urban cores can be strengthened In another win for cities, a long- fee schedule for health care procedures by collaboration across city lines. running impact fees case finally came under workers’ compensation, and the Christopher Gergen of Forward Cities to a close with a second Supreme League’s workers’ comp insurance pool and Forward Impact impressed the Court ruling in Quality Built Homes v. joined a coalition of employer groups importance of inclusive innovation Town of Carthage. In 2016, state’s high as a named amicus, and the Court of and the ingredients that are often court had first ruled that there was no Appeals ruled in favor of the coalition’s missed when it comes to spurring statutory authority for municipalities position. local economic development and to charge water and sewer impact fees entrepreneurialism. to cover the future costs of expansion. CityVision 2017 The Court of Appeals subsequently CityVision 2017, the League’s Town & State Dinner determined that the statute of annual conference held in Greenville, In the spirit of goodwill and limitations on refunds would be 10 included unforgettable presentations, partnership, municipal officials and years, creating large potential financial recognitions, networking, idea-sharing, legislators gathered together by the exposure for local governments swearings-in and good laughs. The hundreds on May 29 for the League’s throughout the state. But on further theme this year was Connect -- first-ever Town & State Dinner, held appeal, the Supreme Court found connecting to technology, new modes, at the Raleigh Convention Center that a three-year statute of limitations and each other -- which the hundreds at the end of a busy day for the would apply. The League’s property of attendees quickly took to heart. General Assembly. The event saw and liability insurance pool provided Jacksonville Mayor Pro Tem Michael mayors, city council members and the defense for the town, so the League Lazzara was installed as president, and municipal staffers breaking bread and did not participate as amicus in the noted what a milestone year it had been strengthening relationships with their case. However, the League provided for the League, one of tremendous senators and representatives while the continuing and extensive technical and challenges. Speakers included state’s top leaders discussed priorities assistance. Angelina Panettieri of the National and the need to work together. The In addition to Carthage, several other League of Cities, whose talk on “Smart speakers for the event included Gov. cases in which the League provided at Any Size” highlighted how smart- Roy Cooper, House Speaker Tim technical assistance saw rulings during city technology and efficiency can be Moore, Senate Majority Leader Harry the year: Tully v. City of Wilmington, applied successfully in towns small or Brown and Attorney General Josh a challenge by an unsuccessful large. Sean Lilly Wilson of Durham’s Stein. applicant for a police department Fullsteam Brewery explained how promotion, resulted in an adverse Supreme Court opinion recognizing a state constitutional claim when a governmental unit fails to follow its own internal policies; in Wilkie v. City of Boiling Spring Lakes, a case involving a claim of inverse condemnation for
30 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Members of the N.C. Mayors Association gather to focus on leadership, timely issues and networking. Photo credit: Ben Brown
2018 League President Michael part of the program, with Neisler out this organization’s role in the Lazzara, Mayor Pro-Tem of introducing Moore and Johnson crisis (which came with the intention Jacksonville, set the tone for the a League-produced video. That of not duplicating or contradicting event by noting that state and local partnership was the theme of the other efforts already on the ground). government officials, in working night was affirmed in the video, which It included the formation of a staff toward their priorities that are features many of our legislators and committee whose members developed ultimately focused on serving citizens, local officials discussing how they’ve ideas, such as working with member enjoy far more common ground worked together to accomplish great police chiefs who are changing the than separate. He also spoke of the things. Said Goldsboro Mayor Chuck conversations and practices in dealing League as an evolving mission-driven Allen in the video, “We are one North with persons struggling with substance organization focused on “serving the Carolina, and we’ve got to work use disorders. interests of towns and cities so that towards being one North Carolina.” Production work for the toolbox they can best serve their residents.” and its contents -- a seven-part video 2018 League Vice President William Opioid Solutions Toolbox series, a full-length podcast episode Pitt, Councilman from Washington, in By now, you may be aware of the and links to helpful outside resources remarks prior to introducing Attorney League’s Opioid Solutions Toolbox – an – sent League staffers on field visits General Stein, noted how his city is online resource to better help member with the state attorney general’s office leading in a fashion similar to other cities and towns address the epidemic and with our featured police chiefs towns and cities across the state – of opioid abuse across the state. The (Tom Bashore of Nashville and Bill leveraging its unique assets to remain Toolbox debuted in September 2018, Hollingsed of Waynesville) to capture economically vital. In Washington’s but the story of its creation reaches their knowledge of the crisis and case, that means its waterfront and far back into the year under the municipal solutions in a way that historic buildings. League-presidency of Jacksonville could be adaptable or scalable to cities In addition to Lazzara and Pitt, Mayor Pro Tem Michael Lazzara, and towns of any size. Said Lazzara, League Board of Directors members who made mental health a primary “By highlighting best practices that Scott Neisler, Mayor of Kings focus for his term. For much of the are already addressing opioid abuse Mountain, and Liz Johnson, Council year, the League’s staff and leadership head-on, we hope that you will find a Member from Morrisville, spoke as worked together to identify and carry solution that can work for you.”
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 31 Risk Management Services making skills needed to better serve Grassroots Engagement their communities. The simulator The League’s three self-funded Grassroots engagement continued training focuses on de-escalation insurance pools – the Workers’ to be a priority for the League in 2017- essential to effectively responding to Compensation Trust, Property and 2018 with staff encouraging significant an individual who is actively resisting Casualty Trust, and the Health Benefits and active communication between an officer. Further, over 60 police Trust – continued to expand benefits local officials and legislators. This departments have participated in the and prioritize customer service. personal approach to advocacy pays law enforcement risk review process. We enhanced risk control services by dividends when issues arise that affect Our online safety and risk control adding a new Risk Control Consultant cities and towns and their ability to training courses remain a popular – and realigning the state into four make decisions at the local level. over 130 members accessed 13,000 services territories up from three The League’s Grassroots Advocacy individual courses. The League also previously. Collectively, consultants team coordinated training and deployed new claims analysis tools to made 730 visits to 330-plus members. workshops for municipal elected help identify trends in the Workers’ Further, a new HR Consultant helped officials. In partnership with the School Compensation and Property & complete more than 170 employment of Government, the League held Casualty claims that will help facilitate liability consultations. The League also Essentials of Municipal Government risk control initiatives to mitigate added telephonic employment liability (EMG) sessions in Hickory, Chapel liability exposures and reduce costs to services for members of the Property & Hill, Sunset Beach, Asheville, and the pools. These analysis tools will be Casualty Trust; these services provide Greenville. For municipalities not able available to members in a dashboard five hours annually of legal consulting. to attend one of the EMG sessions, format. The League continued assisting the League held the Best Practices of Members of the Health Benefits law enforcement agencies with their Municipal Government in the Town of Trust continued to participate in unique risk management needs. The Franklin. various wellness programs to keep Police Chiefs’ Advisory Committee A series of Regional Roundtable employees healthier. These include the reviewed law enforcement liability events also provided elected officials Naturally Slim weight loss program, trends and identified use of force the opportunity to learn about various TrestleTree tobacco cessation program, and constitutional law classes as municipal issues and discuss the Teladoc access for virtual routine needs. Members now have access to challenges and potential solutions sick appointments, and Smart Starts interactive Response-to-Resistance through the lens of a regional- maternity education for high risk Simulator training that teaches the based approach. Nearly 160 elected pregnancies. verbal interactive and proper decision- and appointed municipal officials representing 76 municipalities across the state attended one of 10 regional roundtables. Not only were these Workforce Intelligence. It’s HOW we do IT. events helpful to encourage regional One Platform. Two Solutions. partnerships and networking, they also educated attendees about a wide variety of topics including It’s time to rethink employee engagement and communication. -eni’s BalanceBenefits. water/sewer infrastructure, downtown revitalization, broadband, It’s priceless to have your employees present. -eni’s NexGenEAP transportation, regionalism, open data and public information, changing For Additional Information: Charlotte Victoria Chopra Raleigh Robert Netzel community demographics, affordable 704-430-3799 919-400-0026 housing, tourism and more.
32 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 assist cities and towns with financial and operational advice. The program can help municipalities with questions and challenges related to their finances, difficult audit results, management issues or even utility operations, falling in line with Vision 2030 strategic plan goal of expanding the effectiveness and value of League membership services. Perry James (former chief financial officer for the City of Raleigh), Harold Owen (former manager and current councilman for the City of Burlington), Bob Scott (former manager and finance officer for the Town of Madison) and Ann White (former budget manager NCLM Municipal Operations Consultant Harold Owen (standing) is a former Burlington city manager. Photo credit: Scott Mooneyham for the City of Charlotte) make up the Municipal Operations Consultants Information Technology functioning website for members and (MOCs) team. the public in its interactions with the In a short time, the group has already During 2017-18, the League League. worked with dozens of municipalities. launched its new website with a Other IT improvements during the “The concept of it being a no-fee modern look and feel, as well as year included: service that is included with existing better functionality, including a more • A new phone system with improved League membership is important,” responsive mobile design. Involving call flows to better support of said White, who worked for the City months of work by Information members and operations. of Charlotte from 1985 to 2011 and Technology and communications staff, • The transition from VC3 vendor whose MOC territory is in the state’s the change also upgraded the software services to staff-led IT support and southeast. “I’ve already gotten one to the SharePoint 201 platform, hosting. question about how much it was going allowing for better ease when it comes • The implementation of a data to cost, with very much pleasantly to updating the site. The changes warehouse and business analysis surprised comments from folks when also incorporated all League services – with a first iteration of the new they realized it was no cost.” under one website and improved user Member360 platform providing an The program comes as cities and experience for staff and members. overview of NCLM services used by towns face growing challenges related Beyond those obvious and needed individual members. to population shifts, demographic changes, the new site improved email changes and evolving operational security for League staff, allowed for Help When You Need It: demands can represent significant more interactive experiences, including tests for municipal budgets and that of the League’s Salary Survey, NCLM’s Municipal personnel. Municipalities that have and automated the Job Ads section Operations Consultants been contacted by or are working with to enable members to more quickly Executing on a key League strategic the state treasurer’s office on financial post job openings and allow for a pillar, the year saw the rollout of its issues can particularly benefit from more uniform and easier payment field-based Municipal Operations MOC help. SC system. The overall result was a better Consultants program, designed to look, easier navigation and a better
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 33 Officer in Uniform Granite Falls PD Sergeant a True Superhero
By Ben Brown, NCLM Advocacy Communication Associate
here’s a legacy between cops ensemble, specially made for him in Granite Falls, where a little more and comic-book heroes. by notable designer El Fett out in than 4,700 people live. The Flash’s public persona California. Basically, Sgt. Ferguson is the secret worked in police forensics. Deadpool is a wildly popular identity of the Granite Falls version of TNightwing, AKA Dick Grayson, character from the Marvel Comics Deadpool, and he said it blows kids’ walked the beat. Dragon was a Chicago universe that Sgt. Ferguson adopted for minds when they learn it. cop. Hawkman and Hawkgirl were law himself to better connect with youths The 41-year-old recalled responding enforcement. Renee Montoya of the Batman universe, same. Police officer Jim Harper became the Guardian. The Spectre was a police detective. Judge Dredd was, of sorts, a judge. Lots of varying examples without having to rely on Dick Tracy. But they’re not just confined to comic fiction. At the Granite Falls Police Department is the very real Sgt. Clint Ferguson, whose uniform blends fiction and reality for a different but effective angle on community policing. “A lot of people ... the first thing they ask me is, ‘Where’d you get your costume?’” the sergeant said, referring not to his police clothing Sgt. Clint Ferguson of the Granite Falls Police Department in his *other* uniform. He uses but his Hollywood-caliber Deadpool a superhero persona to connect with kids. Photo courtesy of Clint Ferguson
34 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 to a complaint about a group of his superiors at the police department “I love to see our officers connecting kids loitering in the town square processed the idea. But, then again, he with the community outside of work,” after-hours. He was in his usual had those experiences with kids to back said Granite Falls Police Chief Chris police clothing at the time, probably it up. From time to time, Sgt. Ferguson Jenkins. “It is an opportunity to show incidentally giving the impression of and fellow officers respond to domestic others who we are as a person. I want a sour authority figure marching in to dispute calls with children in the mix. the community to know us in that way.” bust up the kids’ fun. “When I’m in these people’s houses, I’m For the sergeant, the costume hobby “They were playing Pokemon Go, I looking around and there’s just usually (often called “cosplay”) began when remember,” Sgt. Ferguson said. “And comic book heroes everywhere,” he he was a kid. He said his entire annual while speaking with them, one of said. “Toys, posters, movies, books. calendar revolved around Halloween. them was on their phone. They were You know, they’re wearing t-shirts “I was prepping for Halloween starting watching something that had to do with Captain America. And it dawned November 1,” he said. “I mean, I was always ready for the next Halloween.” So it’s easy to wonder if the superhero connection influenced his As a kid, I wanted to be a cop when I grew choice of career. up. And I just got to a point in my life “Every kid dreams of being a hero,” Sgt. Ferguson said when asked about where I was ready to take that step, and that. “That’s why I think they’re drawn I just carried over my interests in the into comic books. Every kid wanted to comic book FIeld into that, and I tried to be Captain America or Spiderman. I FIgure out a way that I can work it into don’t know if one influenced the other. my job to reach out here and connect I’ve always had a love of both. And with these kids. I’ve always felt I wanted to be in law Sgt. C lint Ferguson enforcement. As a kid, I wanted to be a cop when I grew up. And I just got to a point in my life where I was ready to take that step, and I just carried over with comic books. And I showed on me. I said, I bet you if I could talk my interests in the comic book field them a picture of me dressed up as to these kids and say hey, I’m into the into that, and I tried to figure out a way Deadpool. I said, ‘You know who same thing you are, this is my hero, that I can work it into my job to reach that is?’ And they said, ‘Well, yeah, this is who I am, it would sort of break out here and connect with these kids.” Deadpool.’ I said, ‘Well, yeah it is -- but a barrier and it would make them see It must be said that Deadpool is it’s me.’ And it just blew their minds....’I that I’m not just a policeman, but I’m not historically a G-rated character. can’t believe you’re a cop and you do also just like they are. I’m no different But there’s something to that. Teens, that.’ And I told them, ‘I’m no different than them. And they might be more for instance, connect with this hero’s than y’all.’” apt to open up to me.” rawness, and it might simply be a It was a powerful idea in a time The cops-are-human-too cooler impression than if his cosplay when law enforcement agencies are approach earned him the green light persona was, say, the Red Bee (an looking for ways to overcome negative to incorporate Deadpool into his uncelebrated comic book hero from impressions with civilians, particularly community work, which occurs as way back when who worked by day as younger people. Today, he goes out as such when practical, like at events and an assistant district attorney and whose often as he can in his Deadpool suit. in off-duty hours, not interfering with crimefighting sidekick was -- no lie -- a “I was worried they wouldn’t go for serious police matters. pet bee named Michael). it,” the sergeant said when asked how continued on page 43
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 35 Hometown Care Brings Help to 120 Municipal Employees By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
hen Hurricane Florence roared into and then slowly, deliberately plodded Wthrough North Carolina, the storm’s damage was indiscriminate. Among its victims were many of the same local government employees who were out helping rescue other victims from rising flood waters, ensuring that shelters were available, and later helping coordinate recover efforts. Recognizing that fact, the North Carolina League of Municipalities Local Fayetteville first responders evacuate residents of a low-lying rest home during Hurricane Florence. Photo credit: City of Fayetteville Leadership Foundation, supported by League staff, stepped in to create the continue to try to save the home, were multiple recipients from some Hometown Care program, providing the Hometown Care grant provided of the most hard-hit communities by municipal employees who suffered immediate help in paying for a storage the storm. Wilmington, Jacksonville, significant uninsured losses with quick unit for items from the home what were New Bern, Havelock and Atlantic assistance. salvageable. Beach all had a number of employees Three months later, the Hometown “It is good to know that we are who received assistance through the Care program had provided 120 grants appreciated. I have been in local program. In all, 25 municipalities had totaling $60,000 to municipal employees government for 37 years,” she said. employees who received the grants who became storm victims. “I work with Topsail Beach and we during the funding period. As NCLM Executive Director Paul have seen how people have pulled The program was funded with Meyer noted at the time, the $500 grants together to help each other in all of our $25,000 from the League, as well as key were not going to make storm victims communities. Sometimes we forget how donations from Cavanaugh Macdonald whole, but were intended to “be one lives can be changed in a second.” Consulting, the National League of part of the hometown care they deserve” Those sentiments were seen Cities, the UNC School of Government, and show how much they were valued. repeatedly in other comments and Wills Town Watson and Duke Energy. For Connie Forand, the Finance communications from those receiving A Gofundme effort raised $9,445. Officer for the Town of Topsail Beach, the help. The League would like to thank that is exactly how it worked out. Her With Florence serving as the impetus all of the donors, as well as the local family farm home, built by her father for the creation of Hometown Care, government coordinators who worked in 1941, was significantly damaged by it should be no surprise that there to identify qualifying employees in need Florence. While she and her family of help. SC
36 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Preferred Partners Spotlight
Open Data Programs Actually Reduce Record Requests
While most public leaders agree that In each edition of Southern City, the Preferred Partner Spotlight features one of the citizens have the right to know what League’s Preferred Partners, select vendors that have entered into agreements designed officials and agencies are doing on their to save cities and towns money through bundled purchasing and service arrangements. behalf, there’s still a reluctance on the part of many to open their records up people both inside and outside of your preloads demographic and financial data for public consumption. The fear is that organization. from various public sources including posting too much information may Companies like ClearGov are already the U.S. Census, your state treasurer’s actually muddy the waters, or worse, working with communities like yours office, and more to create easy-to-digest invite closer unwanted scrutiny. In reality, across the country to help them share profiles for each community. For more the opposite is true. New research by the their data through unique financial information, please visit https://www. Sunlight Foundation confirms that cities transparency and benchmarking cleargov.com. and towns with open data programs dashboards. ClearGov aggregates and actually get fewer record requests from their constituents. A 2018 multi-city study of the relationship between open data and freedom of Information (FOI) laws found that adopting an open data program significantly decreases the volume of public record requests received by cities Tools to help you beeer communicate, collaborate, — by 30 percent on average — and that and build consensus - both internally and externally this effect grows over time. Additionally, they found that more robust open data programs are associated with greater decreases. The fact is your government data Transparency Benchmarking Budgeeng belongs online where internal and external stakeholders alike can see it. And, the sooner you commit to open data the Reduce inquiries on finances and community projects sooner you can reduce costly, time- consuming record requests. See how you compare to similar ciies and towns In addition to saving money and Create and share your budget and forecasts online freeing up staff to do other more important public business, you’ll be in a better position to secure constructive feedback, buy-in, and trust from www.ClearGov.com [email protected] | (855) 553-2715
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 37 Easy Steps to Improve a City’s Cyber Defenses
By Saad Gul, Poyner Spruill LLP
n March 2018, hackers infected the all, if the NSA and FBI can be hacked City of Atlanta’s computer systems A ransomware attack (and they have been), what can a Iwith ransomware. municipality do to protect itself? A ransomware attack involves the involves the use of The answer: a surprising amount. use of malicious software to lock a malicious software First, and foremost, the target computer and block the owner’s municipality’s information technology access until a ransom is paid. The to lock a target (IT) department needs to ensure attack, which crippled the city’s ability that critical systems and software are computer and block to do everything from issuing business updated regularly. For all the headlines licenses to collecting traffic fines the owner’s access that conjure visions of sophisticated and utility payments, was apparently foreign hackers using cutting-edge prompted by the desire to collect a until a ransom is techniques, virtually all breaches result ransom of $51,000 in Bitcoin. paid...The attacks from exploiting known vulnerabilities. Although this was a high-profile Software vendors frequently release incident, Atlanta was far from alone. have affected updates, known as “patches,” to address Roughly a quarter of all everything from these vulnerabilities. municipalities report being targeted But overworked IT staffers are often by ransomware like that used in the court systems to too busy to download the patches, and Atlanta attack. The attackers may police departments sometimes they can be apprehensive return as often as once an hour to about installing patches due to probe vulnerabilities. Cities from to hospitals. concerns that a patch may adversely Baltimore to Houston to Leeds, affect the system’s existing operations. Alabama, have been hacked. The Nonetheless, IT administrators need to attacks have affected everything from Amid this flood of headlines, it is ensure that their software is regularly court systems to police departments to natural for the conscientious municipal updated with the latest patches. The hospitals. official to feel overwhelmed. After highest-profile breaches in recent years,
38 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 including Experian, have come from In our practice, we have seen for a quick resolution. But the tension a failure to promptly patch known excellent incident response plans that, can be significantly mitigated by problems. unfortunately, refer to technology that implementing regular backups. Second, the weakest link in the was phased out years ago. Frequently backed up data, ideally security chain is inevitably the human An incident response plan must retained in a separate location not one. The Atlanta attack, for instance, contain sufficient detail to guide electronically connected to the main was apparently launched by an employees in an actual emergency, system, can be a lifesaver. Several cities employee clicking on a “phishing” link while retaining the flexibility to and hospitals have been able to brush in an e-mail. While human nature enable them to improvise. To this end, off hackers because regular backups makes it impossible to eliminate cities should run incident response offer them an alternative way to keep human error, this kind of vulnerability simulations or “table top exercises.” operations going. can be mitigated. Basic cybersecurity These exercises get key personnel Fifth, every municipality should training, refreshed by regular familiar and comfortable with the plan, consider purchasing cyber insurance. reminders, can be an effective and cost- and they enable them to practice their Cyber coverage is still economically effective way to prepare employees for roles in an actual crisis. available even in a time of tight phishing attacks and similar “social Incident response plans can also help budgets. Cyber insurance offers the engineering” hacks. identify gaps in planning or personnel, insured access to security experts Third, cities must have allowing the municipality to fill those both before and in the event of a contingency plans in place to gaps before a real incident occurs. crisis. Before a crisis, these experts can deal with attacks. These involve Fourth, ransomware hackers count evaluate a city’s systems and develop documenting vulnerabilities, assigning on the denial of access to lend an recommendations to mitigate risk. responsibilities and developing air of urgency to their demands in The advantages of cyber insurance backup systems. Like patches, incident a crisis. When constituents cannot are becoming clear with each response plans need to be updated access key services such as 911, successive attack. As with all insurance, regularly, especially as threats and police departments cannot process it is important that the scope and technology evolve. investigations, and hospitals must re- amount of cyber coverage corresponds route trauma patients, pressure mounts to projected risks and needs. In the final analysis, none of these steps is groundbreaking. They are well- known to seasoned IT professionals, and they have been for years. Yet, far too many busy executives overlook (or under-fund) them in favor of other priorities. That is a mistake. In cybersecurity, as in life, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. SC
Saad Gul is a partner with Poyner Spruill LLP. He advises clients on a wide range of privacy, data security, and cyber liability issues, including risk management plans, regulatory compliance, cloud computing implications, and breach obligations.
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 39 North Carolinians Fill Ranks of NLC Leadership By Scott Mooneyham, NCLM Director of Public Affairs
s the National League of Cities begins its advocacy 2019 Finance, Administration and Intergovernmental Relations (FAIR) efforts in 2019, its leadership Committee Roster will be well-represented Brian Jackson, Councilman, Jacksonville Awith North Carolina municipal officials Timothy Rohr, Council Member, Lenoir and some well-known names associated 2019 Energy, Environment and Natural Resources (EENR) Committee Roster with the N.C. League of Municipalities. (Vice Chair) TJ Cawley, Mayor, Morrisville NLCM Executive Director Derrick Creech, Council Member District 7, Wilson Paul Meyer and Jacksonville City Samuel Gaskins, City Council Member, Sanford Councilwoman Angelia Washington 2019 Community and Economic Development (CED) Committee Roster have been tapped to be on the NLC’s Jason Ewing, Council Member Ward 6, High Point Board of Directors. Both will serve two-year terms on the board. They join 2019 Human Development (HD) Committee Roster Winston-Salem City Council Member (Vice Chair) LaWana Mayfield, Council Member, Charlotte and former NCLM Board of Directors Rose Glover, Mayor Pro Tem District 2, Greenville Member D.D. Adams on the NLC 2019 Transportation and Infrastructure Services (TIS) Committee Roster board, as she was elected to a two-year Dan Besse, Council Member Southwest Ward, Winston-Salem term last year. DeDreana Freeman, Council Member, Ward 1 Durham “It is an honor and a privilege to 2019 Public Safety and Crime Prevention (PSCP) Committee Roster serve on the National League of Cities Surluta Anthony, Councilmember, Monroe Board of Directors,” Meyer said. “So Don Hardy, Mayor, Kinston many of the challenges faced by cities Quentin Jackson, Councilman, Town of Hertford, NC and towns in North Carolina, caused by huge population shifts in the face of tremendous economic change, are the Meanwhile, NCLM Vice President The National League of Cities same challenges faced by so many of our and Washington Council Member advocates for city priorities at the federal cities across the country. I look forward William Pitt has been appointed to level and works to build strong federal to being a part of the discussion to help two NLC councils, each tasked with local partnerships. NLC President address these challenges.” engaging more municipal officials in Karen Freeman-Wilson, the mayor of In addition to those appointments, 13 NLC efforts. Pitt will serve on the NLC’s Gary, Indiana, as the new board was elected municipal officials from North Race, Equity and Leadership Council, as announced in November, said that Carolina will fill seats on NLC policy well as its Small Cities Council. during a time of political division, it committees for 2019. They are seen in “I am excited and ready to be is more important than ever for city the box above: engaged. We win when we are all at the leaders to work together. “Together we table,” Pitt said. can make real change happen in our communities.” SC
40 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Affordable housing projects developed with the help of the cities of Greensboro and High Point – Talk the Ole Asheboro Neighborhood and Southside Neighborhood – were of our among projects recognized by the N.C. Housing Finance Agency. Photo credit: N.C. Towns Housing Finance Agency
intellectual and/or developmental • Building Independence, Raleigh, disabilities (IDD). a permanent supportive housing Cities of The City of Greensboro, the City of development for adults with IDD, Greensboro, High High Point and the City of Hickory developed by Habitat for Humanity Point, Hickory were honored for their contributions of Wake County, the Serving Cup and Honored at 2018 to these developments. Lutheran Services Carolinas. Housing North Sponsored by the North Carolina • Givens Gerber Park, Asheville, Carolina Awards Housing Finance Agency, the 2018 affordable apartment homes for Housing North Carolina Awards seniors with significant services orth Carolina’s top honor recognize properties in Asheville, and close proximity to health care for excellence in affordable Asheboro, Raleigh, Greensboro and that allows residents to age in place, Nhousing has been awarded to High Point that serve as models for developed by Opportunities South, six developments and neighborhoods other communities. In their 29th year, LLC, and Givens Estates, Inc. that provide opportunities for home the awards were presented during the • Northstone, Hickory, a fully- buyers, life-changing repairs for NC Affordable Housing Conference developed, mixed-income homeowners, apartment homes for last fall, which hosted nearly 1,000 neighborhood of single-family homes seniors and families, and permanent housing industry professionals at the developed by Habitat for Humanity supportive housing for adults with Raleigh Convention Center. of Catawba County and the City of Hickory. • Ole Asheboro Neighborhood and Southside Neighborhood, Guilford County, a mixture of new homes and rehabilitation of existing homes that expands and preserves affordable housing options for younger buyers and older homeowners, developed by Community Housing Solutions, the City of Greensboro and the City of High Point. • The Village at Stone Creek, Asheboro, rehabilitated affordable apartment homes for families, developed by Halcon Development and East Point Homes. SC The 2018 Housing North Carolina Awards were presented in Raleigh. Photo credit: N.C. Housing Finance Agency
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 41 Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication Title: Southern City 2. Publication No.: 827-280 3. Filing Date: Dec. 14, 2018 4. Issue Frequency: Bi Monthly 5. No. of Issues Printed Annually: 6 6. Annual Subscription Price: $2 to member municipalities; $25 to nonmembers 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: North Carolina League of Municipalities, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters of Publisher: North Carolina League of Municipalities, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor Publisher: Paul Meyer, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 Editor: Scott Mooneyham, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 Managing Editor: Scott Mooneyham, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 10. Owner: North Carolina League of Municipalities, 150 Fayetteville St, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27603 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders: None 12. Tax Status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months 13. Publication Title: Southern City 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: Nov/Dec 2018 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Municipal Officials Average # Copies Each Issue Actual # Copies of Single Issue During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date a. Total number of Copies (Net press run) 5,500 5,500 b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation 1. Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail 4,910 4,864 2. Paid In-County Subscriptions 0 0 3. Sales through Dealers and Carriers, St. Vendors 0 0 4. Other Classes Mailed 0 0 c. Total Paid Distribution [Sum of 15b] 4,910 4,864 d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 1. Outside County included on PS Form 3541 300 300 2. In-County included on PS Form 3541 0 0 3. Other Through the USPS 0 0 4. Outside the USPS 0 0 e. Total Free Distribution [Sum of 15d] 300 300 f. Total Distribution [Sum of 15c and 15e] 5,210 5,164 g. Copies not Distributed 290 336 h. Total [Sum of 15f and 15g] 5,500 5,500 i. Percent Paid 94% 94% 16. Electronic Copy Circulation: a. Paid Electronic Copies 0 0 b. Total Paid Print Copies + Paid Electronic Copies 4,910 4,864 c. Total Print Distribution + Paid Electronic Copies 5,210 5,164 d. Percent Paid (Both Print and Electronic Copies) 94% 94% 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership: To be printed in the 1st Quarterly Issue 2019 18. Signature and Title of Editor:
Director of Public Affairs
42 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 Here We Grow: Sanford Speaking Out continued from page 5 continued from page 4 hundreds if not thousands of jobs. It will provide endless opportunities for growth and advancement to our entire region,” he says. Leveraging our assets for a greater The League and those active in return long term is something we set out to do as part of our Open for Business this organization strongly believe Agenda in Sanford, Mann says. “This forward-looking vision of Chatham County that by working as one, we can and Sanford will deliver a project that will benefit our communities for decades to advance all municipalities – big, c om e .” small and in between. Construction is set to begin this year. The megasite is anticipated to be online and So, please be involved. Be ready for major manufacturers looking to build a state-of-the-art production facility engaged. This is your organization. by the end of 2019. View the Moncure Megasite’s amenities at https://edpnc.com/ Acting together through it, we megasites/moncure-megasite. SC can ensure that all North Carolina municipalities collectively thrive Officer in Uniform and advance. SC continued from page 35
When it’s Sgt. Ferguson in the promise” that they won’t reveal his Taking the Field Deadpool suit, he of course keeps it secret identity. He even once caught clean for the integrity and reputation a shoplifter while dressed as Batman continued from page 44 of the Granite Falls PD. And because (and according to KERA News, one of it works, fellow officers across the U.S. the items the shoplifter tried to make working for a better North Carolina. are suiting up similarly, showing up off with was “The LEGO Batman You will see the League to schools, children’s hospitals and Movie” on DVD). incorporate these values and community events as Batman, Captain In Granite Falls, Sgt. Ferguson says statements into our messaging and America or the Hulk among others. he feels fortunate to work for an agency materials going forward, just as we In Fort Worth, Texas, a police receptive to the unconventional. will do the same with a new logo officer named Damon Cole has gained “I work for a good town,” he said, and tagline a few short months attention for his collection of costumes “and the agency I work for is really from now. and program of visiting kids, often supportive and open to all kinds of We will also use these stated in hospitals, making them “pinky ideas.” SC values and mission statements as a springboard to internal culture discussions designed to help Creating your make the League the best, most- efficient workplace possible, better COMMUNITY’S VISION connecting staff to how their jobs advance cities and towns as they reflect values such as service and responsiveness. The result, we believe, will be a League that is ready for any and all Offering Multi-Disciplinary Consulting, SC Engineering + Landscape Architecture Services challenges ahead.
844.448.4333 | www.mcgillengineers.com
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 43 Taking the Field Establishing Values and Mission for the 21st Century
By Paul Meyer NCLM Executive Director
ack in the fall, I wrote in League, we insisted that this process be Working together as one, the cities this column regarding the member-driven. That firm conducted and towns of the North Carolina League BLeague’s efforts to rebrand an extensive survey of members, held of Municipalities will be guided by our the organization with a new logo and individual interviews with municipal commitment to: associated messaging designed to better officials and others familiar with the Service: We trust in the effectiveness reflect who we are today, where we League, and held a focus group made of cities and towns, led by locally-elected are headed tomorrow, and to better up of several members of our Board of officials, to craft solutions that improve connect to the importance of why we Directors. quality of life. do what we do. Those inputs then helped to inform a Self-determination: We believe in the The goal is to unveil that new logo, discussion about external-facing values ability of all cities and towns to pursue tagline and an entire new look and feel and a renewed look at the League’s their own visions of their futures. of the League at CityVision 2019, to be mission. But that wasn’t all. Two Inclusiveness: We value every held in Hickory on May 14-16. separate workshops with the Board member, the diversity of all, and the But as I noted in that previous of Directors, a one-day discussion diverse nature of each member city and column, this effort is about more than among League managers, and a town and their citizenry. a catchy logo or phrase. It is about a meeting to gather the thoughts of the Collaboration: We believe in working larger process of more clearly defining larger League staff all helped to inform together in ways that enhance all cities and communicating the values that this conversation around values and and towns. this League, this association of cities mission. Responsiveness: We focus on the and towns, represents. It is about One of the great results that came needs of North Carolinians, answering to communicating those values in a from these different input points – but the people in meaningful ways that affect way that is clear to all audiences – one that maybe should not have been their everyday lives. whether to each other as members, surprising – is that the same themes And a new mission statement: to policymakers, to the media, to the came up time and again. The North Carolina League of business community or to the larger Those repeated themes, reflecting Municipalities is a member-driven public. Why is that important? Because hallmarks of acknowledged culture, organization representing the interests our values distinguish us from other are why we feel confident in the values of cities and towns in the state. Through organizations; they define how we and mission statements that have been their collective efforts, League member make decisions; they should reflect our developed. cities and towns better serve their practices. And so, here they are. residents and improve quality of life. So, as we engaged with a public A first-ever values statement of the For more than 100 years, the League relations firm to help rebrand the N.C. League of Municipalities: has been one voice for cities and towns continued on page 43
44 | Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 The NC League of Municipalities’ Health Benefits Trust is excited to welcome 42 new employer group members for the 2018-19 plan year!
Since 1984, the Health Benefits Trust has been the only member-owned health insurance pool in North Carolina dedicated to municipal employer group health benefits.
We proudly offer employee benefit solutions for:
• Groups of all sizes, from 1 employee to 1,000+ employees
• Fully-insured plans, HDHPs, self-insured plans, and other fully-customizable options in between
• League members and other local government entities from Murphy to Manteo
Thank you to our members new and old – We’re Here and looking forward to working with you!
Southern City | 1ST QUARTER 2019 | 45 Southern City 215 North Dawson Street Raleigh, NC 27603
When your must-fix needs a quick fix.
Emergencies have a way of popping up when you can least afford them. When they do — and when duct tape will no longer do — we’re here to help.
A Signature Personal Loan* from your Local Government Federal Credit Union is a versatile financial tool you can use to make needed repairs whenever you’re in a fix. 4Get fast access to your funds. 4Use payroll deduction to secure the lowest rate possible. 4Enjoy a no-hassle process with no application fees.
Request your loan now. Go to lgfcu.org/personalloans to apply online. Stop by a branch near you, or call us at 888.732.8562†.
* Subject to approval. Federally insured by NCUA † Calls may be recorded for quality assurance.