Ratings: Fitch: AAA Moody’s: Aaa S&P: AAA (See “RATINGS” herein)
PRELIMINARY OFFICIAL STATEMENT DATED SEPTEMBER 19, 2018 New Issue – Book-Entry Only the Official Statement is delivered in final
hich such offer, solicitation or sale would be This Official Statement has been prepared by the Local Government Commission of North Carolina and the City of Greensboro, North Carolina (the “City”) to provide information in connection with the sale and issuance of the bonds described herein (the “2018A Bonds” and the “2018B Bonds,” respectively, and collectively, the “Bonds”). Selected information is presented on this cover page for the convenience of the user. To make an informed decision regarding the Bonds, a prospective investor should read this Official Statement in its entirety. Unless otherwise indicated, capitalized terms used on this cover page have the meanings given in this Official Statement.
City of Greensboro, North Carolina
$10,400,000 $135,360,000* Taxable General Obligation General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds Public Improvement Bonds Series 2018A Series 2018B
Dated: Date of Delivery Due: October 1, as shown on the inside cover page
Tax Treatment: In the opinion of Bond Counsel, based on existing law, interest on the 2018A Bonds will not be excluded from gross income for purposes of
ities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time federal income taxation imposed by the Code. In the opinion of Bond Counsel, which is based on existing law and assumes continuing compliance by the City with certain covenants to comply with the offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in w provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), interest on the 2018B Bonds will not be includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for purposes of federal income taxation and will not be a specific preference item for purposes of the alternative minimum tax imposed by the Code. In the opinion of Bond Counsel, based on existing law, interest on the Bonds will be exempt from all State of North Carolina income taxes. See “TAX TREATMENT” herein Redemption: The 2018A Bonds will not be subject to redemption prior to their stated maturities. The 2018B Bonds will be subject to optional redemption prior to maturity at the times and price described herein. Security: The Bonds constitute general obligations of the City, secured by a pledge of the faith and credit and taxing power of the City. Interest Payment Dates: April 1 and October 1, beginning April 1, 2019 Denominations: $5,000 or any integral multiple thereof Expected Closing/Settlement: October 17, 2018 Bond Counsel: Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, Raleigh, North Carolina Financial Advisor: DEC Associates, Inc., Charlotte, North Carolina Sale Date: September 25, 2018 Sale of Bonds: Pursuant to sealed and electronic bids in accordance with the respective Notices of Sale.
The date of this Official Statement is September __, 2018
______
This This Preliminary Official Statement and the information contained herein are subject to completion or amendment. These form. secur Under no circumstances shall this Preliminary Official Statement constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. * Preliminary; subject to change.
MATURITY SCHEDULES
$10,400,000 Taxable General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds Series 2018A
Due Principal Interest October 1 Amount Rate Yield1 2019 $7,750,000 2020 2,650,000 ______1 Information obtained from underwriters of the 2018A Bonds.
$135,360,000* General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds Series 2018B
Due Principal Interest Due Principal Interest October 1 Amount* Rate Yield2 October 1 Amount* Rate Yield2 2020 $4,140,000 2030 $7,290,000 2021 7,290,000 2031 7,290,000 2022 7,290,000 2032 7,290,000 2023 7,290,000 2033 7,290,000 2024 7,290,000 2034 7,290,000 2025 7,290,000 2035 7,290,000 2026 7,290,000 2036 7,290,000 2027 7,290,000 2037 7,290,000 2028 7,290,000 2038 7,290,000 2029 7,290,000 ______2 Information obtained from underwriters of the 2018B Bonds.
* Preliminary; subject to change.
CITY OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
______
CITY COUNCIL
Nancy Vaughan ...... Mayor
Yvonne Johnson ...... Mayor Pro Tem
Marikay Abuzuaiter
Sharon Hightower
Nancy Hoffman
Michelle Kennedy
Justin Outling
Tammi Thurm
Goldie Wells
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CITY STAFF
David Parrish ...... City Manager
Richard Lusk ...... Finance Director
Marlene Druga ...... Deputy Finance Director
Tom Carruthers, Esq...... City Attorney
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BOND COUNSEL
Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP Raleigh, North Carolina
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FINANCIAL ADVISOR
DEC Associates, Inc. Charlotte, North Carolina
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION ...... 1 THE NORTH CAROLINA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION ...... 1 THE BONDS ...... 1 Description ...... 1 Redemption Provisions ...... 2 Authorizations and Purposes ...... 3 Security ...... 4 CONTINUING DISCLOSURE ...... 4 APPROVAL OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS ...... 6 TAX TREATMENT ...... 6 2018A Bonds ...... 6 2018B Bonds ...... 7 RATINGS ...... 9 UNDERWRITING ...... 10 MISCELLANEOUS ...... 10
APPENDICES
A - Certain Information Concerning the City of Greensboro, North Carolina ...... A-1 B - The North Carolina Local Government Commission ...... B-1 C - Certain Constitutional, Statutory, and Administrative Provisions Governing or Relevant to the Incurrence of General Obligation Bonded Indebtedness by Units of Local Government of the State of North Carolina ...... C-1 D - Management Discussion and Analysis ...... D-1 E - Financial Information ...... E-1 F - Proposed Forms of Opinions of Bond Counsel ...... F-1 G - DTC’s Book-Entry Only System ...... G-1
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INTRODUCTION
This Official Statement, including the cover page and the appendices, is intended to furnish information in connection with the sale and issuance by the City of Greensboro, North Carolina (the “City”) of its $10,400,000 Taxable General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2018A (the “2018A Bonds”) and $135,360,000* General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2018B (the “2018B Bonds” and, together with the 2018A Bonds, the “Bonds”).
The information furnished herein includes a brief description of the City and its economic condition, government, debt management, tax structure, financial operations, budget, pension plans and contingent liabilities. The City has assisted the North Carolina Local Government Commission (the “Commission”) in gathering and assembling the information contained herein.
This Official Statement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities other than the Bonds offered hereby, nor shall there be any offer or solicitation of such offer or sale of the Bonds in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful for such person to make such offer, solicitation or sale. Neither the delivery of this Official Statement nor the sale of any of the Bonds implies that the information herein is correct as of any date subsequent to the date hereof. The information contained herein is subject to change after the date of this Official Statement, and this Official Statement speaks only as of its date.
This Official Statement is deemed to be a final official statement with respect to the Bonds within the meaning of Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Rule”), except, when it is in preliminary form, for the omission of certain pricing and other information. In accordance with the requirements of such Rule, the City has agreed in resolutions adopted by the City Council of the City to certain continuing disclosure obligations. See “CONTINUING DISCLOSURE” herein.
THE NORTH CAROLINA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION
The Commission, a division of the Department of State Treasurer, State of North Carolina (the “State”), is a State agency that supervises the issuance of the bonded indebtedness of all units of local government and assists these units in the area of fiscal management. Appendix B hereto contains additional information concerning the Commission and its functions.
THE BONDS
Description
The Bonds will be dated as of their date of delivery and will bear interest from their date, payable on each April 1 and October 1, beginning April 1, 2019, at the interest rates set forth on the inside cover page of this Official Statement. The Bonds will mature on October 1, subject to prior redemption in the case of the 2018B Bonds, in the years and amounts set forth on the inside cover page of this Official Statement. Payment of interest will be made by the Bond Registrar on each interest payment date to the registered owner of the Bonds (or the previous Bond or Bonds evidencing the same debt as that evidenced by such Bonds) at the close of business on the record
______* Preliminary; subject to change.
date for such interest, which shall be the 15th day (whether or not a business day) of the calendar month next preceding such interest payment date.
The Bonds will be issuable as fully registered bonds in a book-entry system maintained by The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”). DTC will act as securities depository for the Bonds. Purchases and transfers of the Bonds may be made only in authorized denominations of $5,000 or any integral multiple thereof in accordance with the practices and procedures of DTC. See Appendix G hereto for a description of DTC and the book-entry only system for the Bonds.
Redemption Provisions
The 2018A Bonds will not be subject to redemption prior to their respective maturities.
The 2018B Bonds maturing on or prior to October 1, 2028 will not be subject to redemption prior to their respective maturities. The Bonds maturing on October 1, 2029 and thereafter will be subject to redemption, at the option of the City, from any moneys that may be made available for such purpose, either in whole or in part on any date not earlier than October 1, 2028, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2018B Bonds to be redeemed, plus interest accrued thereon to the date fixed for redemption.
If less than all of the 2018B Bonds of any one maturity shall be called for redemption, the particular 2018B Bonds or portions of 2018B Bonds to be redeemed shall be selected by lot in such manner as the City in its discretion may determine; provided, however, that the portion of any 2018B Bond to be redeemed shall be in the principal amount of $5,000 or some whole multiple thereof and that, in selecting 2018B Bonds for redemption, each such 2018B Bond shall be considered as representing that number of 2018B Bonds which is obtained by dividing the principal amount of such 2018B Bonds by $5,000. So long as a book-entry system with DTC is used for determining beneficial ownership of 2018B Bonds, if less than all of the 2018B Bonds within a maturity are to be redeemed, DTC and its participants shall determine which of the 2018B Bonds within a maturity are to be redeemed by lot. If less than all of the 2018B Bonds stated to mature on different dates shall be called for redemption, the particular 2018B Bonds or portions of 2018B Bonds to be redeemed shall be called in such manner as the City may determine.
Not more than sixty (60) nor less than thirty (30) days before the redemption date of any 2018B Bonds to be redeemed, whether such redemption be in whole or in part, the City shall cause a notice of such redemption to be filed with the Bond Registrar and to be mailed, postage prepaid, to the registered owner of each 2018B Bond to be redeemed in whole or in part to his address appearing upon the registration books of the City, provided that such notice to Cede & Co. shall be given by certified or registered mail or otherwise as prescribed by DTC. Failure to mail such notice or any defect therein shall not affect the validity of the redemption as regards registered owners to whom such notice was properly given.
Any notice of redemption, except a notice of redemption in respect of a mandatory sinking fund redemption, may state that the redemption to be effected is conditioned upon the receipt by the City on or prior to the redemption date of moneys sufficient to pay the redemption price of and interest on the 2018B Bonds to be redeemed, and that if such moneys are not so received, such notice shall be of no force or effect and such 2018B Bond shall not be required to be redeemed. In the event that such notice contains such a condition and moneys sufficient to pay the redemption price of and interest on such 2018B Bonds are not received by the City on or prior to the redemption date, the redemption shall not be made and the City shall within a reasonable time thereafter give notice, in the manner in which the notice of redemption was given, that such moneys were not so received.
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On the date fixed for redemption, notice having been given as hereinabove described, the 2018B Bonds or portions thereof called for redemption shall be due and payable at the redemption price provided therefor, plus accrued interest to such date. If moneys sufficient to pay the redemption price of the 2018B Bonds or portions thereof to be redeemed, plus accrued interest thereon to the date fixed for redemption, are held by the Bond Registrar in trust for the registered owners of the 2018B Bonds or portions thereof to be redeemed, interest on the 2018B Bonds or portions thereof called for redemption shall cease to accrue, such 2018B Bonds or portions thereof shall cease to be entitled to any benefits or security under the resolution providing for their issuance or to be deemed outstanding, and the registered owners of such 2018B Bonds or portions thereof shall have no rights in respect thereof except to receive payment of the redemption price thereof, plus accrued interest to such redemption date. If a portion of a 2018B Bond shall have been selected for redemption, a new 2018B Bond or Bonds of the same maturity, of any authorized denomination or denominations and bearing interest at the same rate shall be delivered for the unredeemed portion of the principal amount of such 2018B Bond.
Authorizations and Purposes
The Bonds are being issued pursuant to the provisions of The Local Government Bond Act, as amended, Article 7, as amended, of Chapter 159 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, bond orders duly adopted by the City Council of the City, which bond orders were duly approved by a majority of the qualified voters of the City who voted thereon at referenda duly called and held, and resolutions duly adopted by the City Council of the City, as follows:
Amount Bond Authorized Anticipation Date and Notes Bonds Offered Remaining Purposes Authorized Unissued Outstanding Hereby Authorization Street Bonds 11/04/20081 $106,036,848 $37,500,0003 $95,950,0004 $10,086,8485 Park Bonds 11/04/20081 $5,240,536 $5,000,0003 $4,680,0004 $560,5365 Natural Science Center 11/03/20092 $8,204,302 $7,500,0003 $7,020,0004 1,184,3025 Bonds Housing Bonds 11/08/2016 $25,000,000 $4,625,000 $10,400,000 $14,600,000 Community and Economic 11/08/2016 $38,500,000 $1,430,000 $6,670,0004 $31,830,000 Development Bonds Parks and Recreation 11/08/2016 $34,500,000 $5,425,000 $10,300,0004 $24,200,000 Bonds Transportation Bonds 11/08/2016 $28,000,000 $3,090,000 $10,740,0004 $17,260,000 ______1 An order was adopted by the City Council of the City on February 4, 2014 to extend the maximum time for which such bonds may be issued pursuant to such bond order to November 4, 2018. 2 An order was adopted by the City Council of the City on September 6, 2016 to extend the maximum time for which such bonds may be issued pursuant to such bond order to November 3, 2019. 3 Represents not to exceed amount of draw-down notes. 4 Preliminary; subject to change. 5 The City does not intend to issue the balance of these authorized bonds.
The City intends to use a portion of the proceeds of the Bonds, together with other available funds of the City, to prepay or pay at maturity of the outstanding bond anticipation notes of the City described above on October 18, 2018. The remaining proceeds of the Bonds, together with any other available funds, will be used to pay the costs of various capital projects for the respective purposes described above.
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Security
The Bonds are general obligations of the City. The City is authorized by law to levy on all property taxable by the City such ad valorem taxes, without limitation as to rate or amount, as may be necessary to pay the Bonds and the interest thereon.
CONTINUING DISCLOSURE
In the resolutions adopted by the City authorizing the issuance of the Bonds, the City has undertaken, for the benefit of the beneficial owners of the Bonds, to provide to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (the “MSRB”):
(a) by not later than seven months from the end of each fiscal year of the City, beginning with the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, audited financial statements of the City for such fiscal year, if available, prepared in accordance with Section 159-34 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, as it may be amended from time to time, or any successor statute, or if such audited financial statements of the City are not available by seven months from the end of such fiscal year, unaudited financial statements of the City for such fiscal year to be replaced subsequently by audited financial statements of the City to be delivered within fifteen (15) days after such audited financial statements become available for distribution;
(b) by not later than seven months from the end of each fiscal year of the City, beginning with the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, (i) the financial and statistical data as of a date not earlier than the end of the preceding fiscal year for the type of information included under the headings “THE CITY - Debt Information and - Tax Information” (excluding any information on overlapping units) in this Official Statement and (ii) the combined budget of the City for the current fiscal year, to the extent such items are not included in the audited financial statements referred to in (a) above;
(c) in a timely manner, not in excess of ten business days after the occurrence of the event, notice of any of the following events with respect to the Bonds:
(1) principal and interest payment delinquencies;
(2) non-payment related defaults, if material;
(3) unscheduled draws on debt service reserves reflecting financial difficulties;
(4) unscheduled draws on credit enhancements reflecting financial difficulties;
(5) substitution of credit or liquidity providers, or their failure to perform;
(6) adverse tax opinions, the issuance by the Internal Revenue Service of proposed or final determinations of taxability, Notices of Proposed Issue (IRS Form 5701-TEB) or other material notices or determinations with respect to the tax status of the Bonds or other material events affecting the tax status of the Bonds;
(7) modification to the rights of the beneficial owners of the Bonds, if material;
(8) Bond calls, except for a mandatory sinking fund redemption, if material, and tender offers;
(9) defeasances;
(10) release, substitution or sale of any property securing repayment of the Bonds, if material;
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(11) rating changes;
(12) bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar event of the City;
(13) the consummation of a merger, consolidation or acquisition involving the City or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the City, other than in the ordinary course of business, the entry into a definitive agreement to undertake such an action or the termination of a definitive agreement relating to any such actions, other than pursuant to its terms, if material; and
(14) appointment of a trustee or a successor or additional trustee or the change of name of a trustee, if material; and
(d) in a timely manner, notice of a failure of the City to provide the required annual financial information described in (a) or (b) above on or before the date specified.
All information provided to the MSRB as described above shall be provided in an electronic format as prescribed by the MSRB and accompanied by identifying information as prescribed by the MSRB.
The City may meet the continuing disclosure filing requirements described above by complying with any other procedure that may be authorized or required by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
At present, Section 159-34 of the General Statutes of North Carolina requires the City’s financial statements to be prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and to be audited in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.
The resolutions adopted by the City authorizing the issuance of the Bonds provide that if the City fails to comply with the undertaking described above, any beneficial owner of the Bonds of each series may take action to protect and enforce the rights of all beneficial owners of such series with respect to such undertaking, including an action for specific performance; provided, however, that failure to comply with such undertaking shall not be an event of default and shall not result in any acceleration of payment of the Bonds. All actions shall be instituted, had and maintained in the manner provided in this paragraph for the benefit of all beneficial owners of the Bonds of each series.
Pursuant to each such resolution, the City has reserved the right to modify from time to time the information to be provided to the extent necessary or appropriate in the judgment of the City, provided that:
(a) any such modification may only be made in connection with a change in circumstances that arises from a change in legal requirements, change in law, or change in the identity, nature or status of the City;
(b) the information to be provided, as modified, would have complied with the requirements of Rule 15c2-12 issued under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Rule 15c2-12”) as of the date of this Official Statement, after taking into account any amendments or interpretations of Rule 15c2- 12, as well as any changes in circumstances; and
(c) any such modification does not materially impair the interests of the beneficial owners of the Bonds of such series, as determined either by parties unaffiliated with the City (such as bond counsel), or by the approving vote of the registered owners of a majority in principal amount of the Bonds of such series pursuant to the terms of such resolution, as it may be amended from time to time, at the time of such amendment.
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In the event that the City makes such a modification, any annual financial information containing modified operating data or financial information is required to explain, in narrative form, the reasons for the modification and the impact of the change in the type of operating data or financial information being provided.
The undertaking described above will terminate upon payment, or provision having been made for payment in a manner consistent with Rule 15c2-12, in full of the principal of and interest on all of the Bonds of each respective series.
To the best of the City’s knowledge, it has complied in all material respects with its previous continuing disclosure undertakings under Rule 15c2-12 for the past five fiscal years.
APPROVAL OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Certain legal matters incident to the authorization and issuance of the Bonds are subject to the approval of Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, Raleigh, North Carolina, Bond Counsel, whose legal opinions will be available at the time of the delivery of the Bonds. The proposed forms of such opinions are included in Appendix F hereto.
TAX TREATMENT
2018A Bonds
General. The following discussion is a brief summary of the principal United States federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the 2018A Bonds by original purchasers of the 2018A Bonds who are “U.S. Holders” (hereinafter defined). This summary (a) is based on certain relevant provisions of the Code, under existing law and are subject to change at any time, possibly with retroactive effect; (b) assumes that the 2018A Bonds will be held as “capital assets;” and (c) does not discuss all of the United States federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to an owner of the 2018A Bonds in light of its particular circumstances, such as the Medicare tax under Section 1411 of the Code, or to owners of the 2018A Bonds subject to special rules, such as insurance companies, certain plans subject to Section 4975 of the Code, financial institutions, tax-exempt organizations, dealers in securities or foreign currencies, persons or entities holding the 2018A Bonds as a position in a “hedge” or “straddle,” or owners whose functional currency (as defined in Section 985 of the Code) is not the United States dollar, or owners who acquire 2018A Bonds in the secondary market.
Owners and prospective purchasers of the 2018A Bonds should consult with their own tax advisors concerning the United States federal income tax and other consequences with respect to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the 2018A Bonds, as well as any tax consequences that may arise under the laws of any state, local or foreign tax jurisdiction.
The term “U.S. Holder” means a beneficial owner of a 2018A Bond that is (a) a citizen or resident of the United States, (b) a corporation, partnership or other entity created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any political subdivision thereof, (c) an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source or (d) a trust whose administration is subject to the primary jurisdiction of a United States court and which has one or more United States fiduciaries who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust.
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Opinion of Bond Counsel. In the opinion of Bond Counsel, based on existing law, interest on the 2018A Bonds will not be excluded from gross income for purposes of federal income taxation imposed by the Code. Bond Counsel is also of the opinion, based on existing law, that interest on the 2018A Bonds will be exempt from all State of North Carolina income taxes.
Disposition and Defeasance. Generally, upon the sale, exchange, redemption or other disposition (which would include a legal defeasance) of a 2018A Bond, an owner of such 2018A Bond generally will recognize taxable gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized (other than amounts attributable to accrued interest not previously includable in income) and such owner’s adjusted tax basis in the 2018A Bond. Such gain or loss generally will be capital gain or loss, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if such 2018A Bond has been held for more than one year at the time of sale, exchange, redemption or other disposition. An owner’s adjusted tax basis in a 2018A Bond generally will equal the cost of such 2018A Bond to the owner, increased by any original issue discount included in income and decreased by the amount of any payments other than “qualified stated interest payments” received and amortized bond premium taken with respect to such 2018A Bond.
The City may cause the deposit of moneys or securities in escrow in such amount and manner as to cause the 2018A Bonds to be deemed to be no longer outstanding under the resolution authorizing the 2018A Bonds (a “defeasance”). For federal income tax purposes, such defeasance could result in a deemed exchange under Section 1001 of the Code and a recognition by such owner of taxable income or loss without any corresponding receipt of moneys. In addition, the character and timing of receipt of payments on the 2018A Bonds subsequent to any such defeasance could also be affected.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting. In general, information reporting requirements will apply to non-corporate holders with respect to payments of principal, payments of interest, and the accrual of original issue discount, on a 2018A Bond and the proceeds of the sale of a 2018A Bond before maturity within the United States. Such payments will be subject to backup withholding, except in the case of certain “exempt payees” as defined in the Code, if the owner of a 2018A Bond (a) fails to furnish to the City such owner’s social security number or other taxpayer identification number (“TIN”), (b) furnished the City an incorrect TIN, (c) fails to report properly interest, dividends or other “reportable payments” as defined in the Code or (d) under certain circumstances, fails to provide the City with a certified statement, signed under penalty of perjury, that the TIN provided to the City is correct and that such owner is not subject to backup withholding. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a beneficial owner, and which constitutes over-withholding, would be allowed as a refund or a credit against such beneficial owner’s United States federal income tax provided the required information is furnished to the Service.
Future Law Changes. No assurance can be given that future legislation or changes to law, including amendments to the Code, or interpretations thereof if enacted into law, will not contain provisions or produce results which could, directly or indirectly, affect federal or state tax treatment of interest on the 2018A Bonds.
2018B Bonds
Opinion of Bond Counsel. In the opinion of Bond Counsel, under existing law and assuming continuing compliance by the City with certain covenants to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), regarding, among other matters, the use, expenditure and investment of the proceeds of the 2018B Bonds, and the timely payment of certain investment earnings to the United States Treasury, interest on the 2018B Bonds will not be includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for purposes of federal income taxation and will
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not be a specific preference item for purposes of the alternative minimum tax imposed by the Code. Furthermore, in the opinion of Bond Counsel, under existing law, interest on the 2018B Bonds will be exempt from all State of North Carolina income taxes.
The Code and other laws of taxation, including the laws of taxation of the State of North Carolina, of other states and of local jurisdictions, may contain other provisions that could result in tax consequences, upon which Bond Counsel expresses no opinion, as a result of ownership or transfer of the 2018B Bonds.
Original Issue Discount. ______, as senior managing underwriter of the 2018B Bonds, has advised the Commission that the initial public offering prices of the 2018B Bonds maturing on October 1, ______(collectively, the “Discount Bonds”) are less than the amounts payable at maturity. An amount not less than the difference between the initial offering prices to the public (excluding bond houses, brokers or similar persons or organizations acting in the capacity of underwriters, placement agents, wholesalers or other intermediaries) of the Discount Bonds and the amounts payable at maturity constitutes original issue discount. Under existing federal income tax law and regulations, the original issue discount on a Discount Bond is interest not includable in the gross income of an owner who purchases such Discount Bond in the original offering at the initial public offering price thereof and holds it to maturity, and such owner will not realize taxable gain upon payment of such Discount Bond at maturity. Owners who purchase Discount Bonds at a price other than the initial offering price or who do not purchase Discount Bonds in the initial public offering should consult their tax advisors with respect to the consequences of the ownership of such Discount Bonds. An owner who purchases a Discount Bond in the initial offering at the initial offering price and holds such Discount Bond to maturity is deemed under existing federal tax laws and regulations to accrue original issue discount on a constant yield basis under Section 1288 of the Code from the date of original issue. An owner’s adjusted basis in a Discount Bond is increased by accrued original issue discount for purposes of determining gain or loss on sale, exchange or other disposition of such Discount Bond. Accrued original issue discount may be taken into account as an increase in the amount of tax-exempt interest received or deemed to have been received for purposes of determining various other tax consequences of owning a Discount Bond even though there will not be a corresponding cash payment.
Owners and prospective purchasers of Discount Bonds should consult their own tax advisors regarding the calculation of accrued original issue discount for federal income tax purposes, including various special rules relating thereto, and state and local tax consequences, in connection with the ownership or disposition of Discount Bonds.
Original Issue Premium. ______, as senior managing underwriter of the 2018B Bonds, has advised the Commission that the initial public offering prices of the 2018B Bonds maturing on October 1, ______(collectively, the “Premium Bonds”) are greater than the amounts payable at maturity. The difference between (a) the initial offering prices to the public (excluding bond houses, brokers or similar persons or organizations acting in the capacity of underwriters, placement agents, wholesalers or other intermediaries) at which a substantial amount of each maturity of the Premium Bonds is sold and (b) the principal amount payable at maturity of such Premium Bonds constitutes original issue premium. In general, an owner of a Premium Bond must amortize the bond premium over the remaining term of the Premium Bond based on the owner’s yield over the remaining term of the Premium Bond, determined based on constant yield principles (in certain cases involving a Premium Bond callable prior to its stated maturity date, the amortization period and yield may be required to be determined on the basis of an earlier call date that results in the lowest yield on such Premium Bond). An owner of a Premium Bond must amortize the bond premium by offsetting the qualified stated interest allocable to each interest accrual period under the owner’s regular method of accounting against the bond premium allocable to that period. If the bond premium allocable to an accrual period exceeds the qualified stated
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interest allocable to that accrual period, the excess is a nondeductible loss. Under certain circumstances, the owner of a Premium Bond may realize a taxable gain upon disposition of the Premium bond even though it is sold or redeemed for an amount less than or equal to the owner’s original acquisition cost.
Owners and prospective purchasers of Premium Bonds should consult their own tax advisors regarding the treatment of bond premium for federal income tax purposes, including various special rules relating thereto, and state and local tax consequences in connection with the ownership and disposition of Premium Bonds.
Other Tax Consequences. Ownership or transfer of, or the accrual or receipt of interest on, the 2018B Bonds may result in collateral federal, State of North Carolina, other state or local tax consequences to certain taxpayers, including, without limitation, financial institutions, property and casualty insurance companies, certain foreign corporations doing business in the United States, certain S corporations with excess passive income, individual recipients of Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, taxpayers who may be deemed to have incurred or continued indebtedness to purchase or carry tax-exempt obligations, taxpayers who may be eligible for the federal earned income tax credit, and taxpayers subject to franchise, estate, inheritance, gift or capital gains taxes. Owners and prospective purchasers of the 2018B Bonds should consult their tax advisors as to any such possible tax consequences. Except to the extent covered in its legal opinion, Bond Counsel expresses no opinion regarding any such collateral tax consequences.
No assurance can be given that future legislation, including amendments to the Code or interpretations thereof, if enacted into law, or certain litigation or judicial decisions, if upheld, will not contain provisions or produce results which could, directly or indirectly, reduce the benefit of the excludability of interest on the 2018B Bonds from gross income for federal income tax purposes.
The Internal Revenue Service (the “Service”) has an ongoing program of auditing tax-exempt obligations to determine whether, in the view of the Service, interest on such tax-exempt obligations is includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for federal income tax purposes. No assurances can be given as to whether or not the Service will commence an audit of the 2018B Bonds.
Interest paid on tax-exempt obligations, such as the 2018B Bonds, will be subject to information reporting in a manner similar to interest paid on taxable obligations. Although such reporting requirement does not, in and of itself, affect the excludability of interest with respect to the 2018B Bonds from gross income for federal income tax purposes, such reporting requirement causes the payment of interest with respect to the 2018B Bonds to be subject to backup withholding if such interest is paid to beneficial owners who (a) are not “exempt recipients,” and (b) either fail to provide certain identifying information (such as the beneficial owner’s taxpayer identification number) in the required manner or have been identified by the Service as having failed to report all interest and dividends required to be shown on their income tax returns. Generally, individuals are not exempt recipients, whereas corporations and certain other entities generally are exempt recipients. Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a beneficial owner would be allowed as a refund or credit against such beneficial owner’s federal income tax liability provided the required information is furnished to the Service.
RATINGS
Fitch Inc., Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global Ratings have given the Bonds ratings of “AAA”, “Aaa” and “AAA”, respectively. Those ratings reflect only the respective views of such organizations, and an explanation of the significance of each such rating may be obtained only from
9
the respective organization providing such rating. Certain information and materials not included in the Official Statement were furnished to such organizations. There is no assurance that such ratings will remain in effect for any given period of time or that any or all will not be revised downward or withdrawn entirely. Any downward revision or withdrawal of a rating may have an adverse effect on the market prices of the Bonds.
UNDERWRITING
The underwriters for the 2018A Bonds are ______.1 Such underwriters have jointly and severally agreed, subject to certain conditions, to purchase all but not less than all of the 2018A Bonds. If all of the 2018A Bonds are sold at the public offering yields set forth on the inside cover page of this Official Statement, such underwriters anticipate total selling compensation of $______.1 The public offering prices or yields of the 2018A Bonds may be changed from time to time by such underwriters.
The underwriters for the 2018B Bonds are ______.2 Such underwriters have jointly and severally agreed, subject to certain conditions, to purchase all but not less than all of the 2018B Bonds. If all of the 2018B Bonds are sold at the public offering yields set forth on the inside cover page of this Official Statement, such underwriters anticipate total selling compensation of $______.2 The public offering prices or yields of the 2018B Bonds may be changed from time to time by such underwriters. ______1 Information provided by the underwriters of the 2018A Bonds.
2 Information provided by the underwriters of the 2018B Bonds.
MISCELLANEOUS
Any statements in this Official Statement involving matters of opinion or estimates, whether or not expressly so stated, are intended as such and not as representations of fact.
References herein to the State Constitution and legislative enactments are only brief outlines of certain provisions thereof and do not purport to summarize or describe all provisions thereof.
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The execution of this Official Statement has been duly authorized by the Local Government Commission of North Carolina and the City Council of the City.
NORTH CAROLINA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION
By Greg C. Gaskins Secretary of the Commission
CITY OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
By Nancy Vaughan Mayor
By David Parrish City Manager
By Richard Lusk Finance Director
11 APPENDIX A
CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE CITY OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
General Description
The City was incorporated in 1808, is the county seat of Guilford County (the “County”) and covers an area of approximately 135 square miles. The City is located approximately midway between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, Georgia in the central piedmont region of North Carolina. The City had an estimated 2017 population of 290,222 according to the United States Census Bureau. The estimated population of the Greensboro-Winston-Salem-High Point combined statistical area (“CSA”) is 1,663,532 as of July 1, 2017, according to the United States Census Bureau. Over one million people live within a 30-mile radius of the City, and more than five million people live within a 90-mile radius of the City stretching to Charlotte to the southwest, through Winston-Salem to the west and to Durham and Raleigh to the east.
The City is empowered by statute to extend its corporate limits by annexation, through voluntary petition or City-initiated actions. Involuntary annexations require compliance with various statutory requirements, including a requirement that persons subject to an involuntary annexation have the opportunity to approve or reject the involuntary annexation initiated by the municipality by referendum. Annexed areas are also required to be guaranteed fire, police and solid waste services immediately upon annexation and provisions for water and sewer service within three and one-half years of annexation. Factors the City considers when evaluating annexations include the location of new developments, environmental constraints, availability of water and sewer and other City services, transportation accessibility, land use patterns and development regulations and policies. The City annually reviews areas eligible for City-initiated annexation, reviews the pros and cons of annexing different areas and decides whether to pursue voluntary or City-initiated annexations at appropriate times.
Minor annexations occur each year through the voluntary petition procedure. The last major City-initiated annexation was in 2008 and included twelve separate areas of the City, which contain seven square miles (more than 4,400 acres) and an estimated population of 10,141.
The City Council adopted its first comprehensive plan known as the Connections 2025 Comprehensive Plan (the “Plan”) in May 2003. The Plan includes a vision statement with four elements: community character, sustainable growth, economic prosperity and people, organizations and government. Plan elements include goals and policies pertaining to land use, community character, housing and neighborhoods, economic development, transportation and community facilities/infrastructure. Implementation of the Plan includes a total of 75 actions, including revising development regulations, processes for amending and monitoring the Plan and a number of other studies, new programs and expenditures by the City and other parties. Most of these actions have been completed. Development of a Land Development Ordinance (“LDO”) was a Plan recommendation to overhaul regulations to address a number of primary goals, including ease of ordinance use, creating more flexible standards and procedures, protecting neighborhoods and the environment, and promoting mixed use and quality infill development. The LDO was adopted in June 2010, and several amendments have been made by the City since 2010.
The City is empowered to levy a property tax on the appraised value of all real property and certain categories of tangible personal property located within the City. The County is the only other unit levying such taxes within the City’s corporate limits. Taxation for operating purposes may not exceed $1.50 per $100 assessed valuation unless the voters approve a higher rate, except for debt service, deficits
A-1 and civil disorders, for which unlimited taxes may be levied. The City’s adopted tax rate for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 is $0.6325 per $100 assessed valuation. The City also has the authority to levy an ad valorem tax of up to $0.035 per $100 assessed valuation to improve and expand its public transit system. The City’s current tax rate includes a public transit system ad valorem tax of $0.035 per $100 assessed valuation.
The North Carolina General Statutes require a revaluation of real property at least every eight years. The latest revaluation was performed in 2017 and was effective in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. The next revaluation will be in 2022, effective in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023.
The United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, has recorded the population of the City to be as follows:
1990 2000 20101 183,894 223,891 269,666 ______1 In the 2010 Census, the City ranked 69th nationally in population among cities, and the CSA ranked 31st nationally in population among CSAs.
The North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management has estimated the population of the City to be as follows (latest data available):
2014 2015 2016 280,280 282,472 284,328
Per capita income figures for the County, the State and the United States are presented in the following table:
Year County1 State United States 2012 $39,139 $38,596 $44,267 2013 38,711 37,798 44,462 2014 40,321 39,365 46,414 2015 41,691 40,759 48,112 2016 43,556 42,203 49,204 ______Source: United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis. 1 Separate data for the City are not available.
Commercial, Industrial and Institutional Profile
The City’s diversified economy can be attributed to its blend of service, trade and manufacturing businesses and local government and educational institutions. Many area businesses have experienced continuing growth and development, in part because of the City’s location. In March 2017, Site Selection magazine announced that for the sixth consecutive year, the Greensboro Metro Area earned a number one ranking for GDP per-capita growth among similar-sized cities (US Bureau of Economic Analysis). The region was named sixth in the nation for corporate real estate projects of $1 million or greater announced in the metro area in 2016 (Conway Project Database).
Local industry is characterized by the production of a wide range of products, including aircraft, machinery, electronic equipment, textiles, apparel and tobacco, as well as expansion in the aircraft
A-2 maintenance, transportation and financial services industries. Several Fortune 500 companies have major operations in the City, including AT&T, Citigroup, Lincoln Financial, Procter & Gamble, United Guaranty, UnitedHealth Group, United Parcel Service (UPS) and VF Corporation. Also, the principal offices of manufacturing companies such as Volvo Trucks North American Corporation/Mack Trucks, Inc. are located in the City and surrounding areas. Major plants for ITG Brands (Lorillard Tobacco Company) and Unifi, Inc. are also located in the area. In addition to the largest major employers, approximately one hundred international firms from 22 countries are located in the Triad region of the State. These retail and wholesale companies provide a variety of goods and services in the areas of technology, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, insurance, food products, chemicals and furniture.
Honda Aircraft Company has invested $140 million to establish its world headquarters, along with manufacturing, testing, training, maintenance and customer service facilities, comprising over 600,000 square feet on its 130-acre campus located at Piedmont Triad International Airport (“PTIA”) near the City. The company currently employs approximately 1,800 people at the campus. Following 12 years of design and testing, the HondaJet HA-420, a lightweight 7-passenger passenger jet, received all required FAA certifications to produce, flight test and issue airworthiness certificates for customers. In June 2017, HondaJet also received Canadian type certification, authorizing the company to deliver jets to Canadian customers. This followed prior certifications for delivery to Europe and Mexico. HondaJet was named the most delivered jet in its category for the first half of 2017 by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, delivering 24 aircraft to customers in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe. With sales worldwide, annual production has doubled to 48 aircraft at its PTIA facility. In May 2018, Honda Aircraft Company announced its new HondaJet Elite aircraft and also announced that it will expand sales to the Middle East. In June 2018, the company announced their expansion into the Japanese market. The City Council had previously approved an economic incentive grant in the amount of $523,750 ($1,250 per new job) for Honda Aircraft Company. The grant was provided for the purpose of real property improvements, new equipment and creating jobs.
Various major industrial and business parks with fully developed infrastructure, covering about 700 acres, are located in the vicinity of the PTIA. Existing office and industrial facilities located within 2.5 miles of the airport exit off Interstate Highway 40 include more than three million square feet of office, office/showroom, warehouse/distribution, light industrial and hotel space.
A comprehensive regional plan, Piedmont Together, was completed for the 12-county Triad region in 2013. This plan assessed regional assets and recommends specific infrastructure improvements, including investments in multi-modal transportation networks, an intermodal logistic hub and other community infrastructure. The Greensboro region is well-suited for sizable computing centers due to the significant electric power grid developed in previous years to accommodate large textile manufacturing operations, along with existing fiber optic and advanced telecommunications infrastructure. The State is already home to large scale data centers for Apple, Google and IBM, among others.
City leaders are working with regional economic development officials regarding the development of potential “megasites.” Megasites are properties typically greater than 1,000 acres that could house a large manufacturing facility, such as an auto assembly operation. In particular, two sites within 25 miles of the City in Chatham and Randolph counties could offer 1,870 and 1,818 acres, respectively. In June 2016, the Greensboro-Randolph megasite received industrial site certification, designating the site as construction ready for a large-scale industrial user. The City is continuing to provide needed water and sewer infrastructure to the Greensboro-Randolph megasite, with design, permitting work and easement purchases in process for service delivery within 24 months of a prospective company using the site. The Chatham- Siler megasite received official state certification as a megasite in June 2014 and was selected to participate in Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program that helps officials recruit major industries. In support of these initiatives, Golden Leaf, a nonprofit foundation, awarded $11 million in grant funding ($7 million allocated
A-3 to water and sewer line construction for the Greensboro-Randolph megasite, and $4 million for water and wastewater infrastructure at the Chatham-Siler megasite).
In 2005, a Business Improvement District (“BID”) was established for downtown Greensboro, with an additional separate tax rate for properties located within the district boundaries. Currently, the tax rate is $.08 per $100 valuation, down from $.09 at its inception. The BID generated close to $1,038,331 in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018 for downtown improvement projects.
During the past several years, the City’s downtown has experienced considerable growth. Revitalization of downtown has been energized with a variety of activities including new housing development, business location loans, business façade improvement programs, landscaping programs and public safety.
First National Bank Field, a minor league baseball stadium with a 7,499 seat capacity, opened in 2005 and is the home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers, a Class A affiliate team of the Miami Marlins. The construction of an approximately $17 million, 75,000 square-foot office building project with ground level retail has been proposed by a group of Triad developers adjacent to the stadium. Construction is expected to begin in 2018. A 196-unit apartment complex and a 68-unit luxury apartment complex opened near the stadium within the past five years, and an approximately $65 million large-scale mixed-use project is planned for completion in 2018. This mixed-use development is expected to include 288 apartments and a 110-room, six-story mid-market hotel. The hotel will be within walking distance of First National Bank Field and the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts.
North of the City’s downtown area, an approximately $100 million redevelopment project on the historic 45-acre Revolution Mill campus is nearing completion of the first phase. Notable as the first flannel textile mill in the South and registered on the National Register of Historic Places, the mixed-use site includes 142 apartment units, 240,000 square feet of office space, two restaurants and 40 artist studios. The planning concept was to create a live-work-play community that supports the culture of arts in the City. The large historic restoration project will also connect the campus to the downtown area of the City via the City’s Greenways trails. Tenants in the Revolution Mill development include the City’s largest microbrewery, Natty Greene’s. This company invested $14 million to launch its new Kitchen + Market, with a brewery production facility and restaurant, and is expected to create 27 new jobs by the end of 2018. Other tenants include Urban Grinders coffee shop and Cugino Forno Pizzeria. LT Apparel Group, a New York based apparel designer and marketer, was the first major business tenant to locate on the Revolution Mill campus, occupying 12,000 square-feet with approximately 30 employees. This company plans to make the City its headquarters for the design and artwork for Adidas and Carhartt children’s lines.
Another nearby historic mill was purchased in 2017 with similar plans for conversion to a mixed use development on 18 acres of land just east of Revolution Mill. The former Proximity Printworks Mill, now on the National Register of Historic Places, served as the first textile printer in the South. A Wisconsin company specializing in urban redevelopment has plans to take advantage of federal historic tax credits and invest almost $60 million to convert the mill into a mixed use development with over 200 apartments, retail and restaurant spaces, and a climate-controlled storage business. Construction is expected to be complete in mid-2019.
On the east side of the City, an approximately $14 million, 300,000 square foot speculative industrial building was completed at the McConnell Center industrial park. The City extended a $600,000 loan as part of the City’s shovel-ready site program designed to encourage industrial and commercial development. Since its opening in 2016, the building has been occupied by two tenants, Wayfair and R.M. Schreiner Co., for a total of 77 employees on the site. Coca-Cola Bottling Company
A-4 recently announced plans to occupy the remaining available space in the building, adding an additional 20 employees to the location.
The Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts, an $84.7 million, 3,000 seat arts center located in the City’s downtown area, is being funded by a public/private partnership with approximately $40.7 million in public funds provided by the City and approximately $44 million in private funds. This facility will be a multi-use venue with diverse programming for all ages and is estimated to attract 300,000 patrons annually, extending educational opportunities for families through exposure to high quality performances in a local setting. Donor pledges toward funding of the project have exceeded the original $35 million goal, including a single private pledge of $7.5 million for naming rights for the facility, to be named the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. The estimated completion date for this facility is spring 2020. The City has issued bonds for its share of the project costs and plans to pay the debt service associated with such financing from a portion of the hotel/motel occupancy tax, facility fees and parking-related revenues.
Some more recent significant commercial and industrial development activities in and around the City include:
• In fiscal year 2015, NC A&T State University (“A&T”), the University of North Carolina - Greensboro, Guilford Technical Community College (“GTCC”) and Cone Health created Union Square Campus, Inc., a nonprofit tasked with developing a university campus in the City’s downtown area. This approximately $37 million healthcare-related project includes a four-story, 85,000 square foot facility that houses bachelor and doctor of nursing programs and a simulated surgical lab. A 7.5-acre site was selected in the City’s South Elm Redevelopment area for this project, of which two acres were donated by the City. Phase I of this project began in April 2015, and the facility opened in August 2016. It is anticipated that Phase II of this project will focus on promoting global business and other areas of economic development and will include construction of adjoining office and retail space, a conference hotel and apartments. The fully developed project is envisioned to involve seven educational institutions and to be funded with public, private, State and federal grant contributions. The estimated long-term economic impact of this project is expected to be more than $500 million according to a recent economic analysis study.
• In 2016, A&T and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (“UNC-G”) were together approved to receive $195 million in bond funding from the State of North Carolina. A&T plans to invest $90 million for construction of a new four-story Engineering Research and Innovation Complex, while UNC-G is in the design phase of a new $105 million, five-story nursing and instructional building. GTCC also plans to spend $22 million to construct a new Center for Advanced Manufacturing.
• Cone Health, the City’s largest private employer, received State approval in 2016 for an approximately $100 million project to relocate its stand-alone Women’s Hospital to a 196,000 square foot, 6-story addition on the south side of the existing Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital. The groundbreaking for this project occurred in 2017, with the new facility expected to be completed in 2019. Cone Health also plans to invest $38 million in renovations of its operating suites at Wesley Long Hospital, which should be completed in 2018.
• Several new craft breweries have opened in the City, including Gibb’s Hundred Brewing Company, Preyer Brewing, Pig Pounder, Little Brother Brewing, Leveneleven Brewing and Joymongers. Established craft brewery Natty Greene’s is increasing its capacity by 50%, with plans to create a larger footprint in neighboring states. The company is increasing its brewing capacity to 30,000 barrels annually, setting its sights on the 200,000 barrel mark with the planned investment of $14.25
A-5 million for a new production brewery and restaurant at Revolution Mill in the City. World of Beer, a network of taverns known for offering more than 500 bottles of brew from around the world, opened a location in the City in late 2015. The restaurant occupies a 4,800 square-foot space within the 9,000 square-foot expansion of Westover Gallery of Shops.
The following table lists the largest employers in the City and its surrounding area as of June 2018:
Approximate Number of Company or Institution Product or Service Employees Moses Cone Health System Health Care 9,425 Guilford County School System Education 9,008 University of North Carolina at Greensboro Education 3,175 City of Greensboro Government 2,913 United Healthcare Health Care 2,861 Guilford County Government Government 2,428 U.S. Postal Service Postal Service 2,300 Ralph Lauren Apparel 2,201 Unifi, Inc. Textile Manufacturing 2,153 HAECO Americas (Timco Aviation) Aviation Products 2,000 Bank of America Banking 1,850 Honda Aircraft Company Aviation 1,800 VF Corp Apparel 1,700 Lincoln Financial Group Financial Services 1,570 North Carolina A&T University Education 1,547 Qorvo (RF Micro Devices) Microchips & Integrated Circuits 1,400 ITG Brands (Lorillard Inc.) Tobacco Products 1,120 Spectrum (Time Warner Cable) Media & Communications 1,100 ______Source: Triad Business Journal.
The following table reflects the total taxable sales for the County for each of the six fiscal years ended June 30, 2013 through 2018:
Fiscal Year Total Increase Ended June 30 Taxable Sales Over Previous Year 2013 $5,645,035,166 0.1% 2014 5,871,111,589 4.0 2015 6,449,699,410 9.9 2016 6,706,236,443 4.0 2017 7,352,442,087 9.6 2018 7,433,151,224 1.1 ______Source: North Carolina Department of Revenue.
A-6 Construction activity in the City for the five calendar years ended December 31, 2013 through 2017 and the six-month period ended June 30, 2018 is shown in the following table:
Non-Residential Residential Calendar Year Number Value Number Value Total Value 2013 1,386 $230,015,880 2,341 $160,727,234 $390,743,114 2014 1,069 230,707,371 2,750 214,719,158 445,426,529 2015 1,765 315,161,029 2,425 161,316,609 476,477,638 2016 1,812 508,753,949 3,156 287,488,257 796,242,206 2017 1,289 338,852,515 2,780 298,225,106 637,077,621 2018 (6 months) 1,250 292,878,917 1,580 103,934,262 396,813,179
______Source: City Engineering and Inspections Department.
Employment
The North Carolina Department of Commerce, Labor and Economic Analysis Division has estimated the percentage of unemployment in the City to be as follows:
2015 2016 2017 2018 2015 2016 2017 2018 January 5.8% 5.7% 5.5% 5.1% July 6.4% 5.9% 5.4% 4.6% February 5.7 5.5 5.2 5.0 August 6.0 5.8 5.4 N/A March 5.5 5.3 4.9 4.7 September 5.3 5.3 4.7 N/A April 5.4 5.1 4.5 4.1 October 5.4 5.2 4.6 May 6.1 5.2 4.7 4.1 November 5.3 5.1 4.8 June 6.2 5.8 5.1 4.7 December 5.2 5.1 4.6
The following is a comparison of average annual unemployment rates for the City, County, State and United States:
Year City County State United States 2013 8.2% 8.7% 8.0% 7.4% 2014 6.5 6.4 6.1 6.2 2015 5.7 5.9 5.8 5.3 2016 5.4 5.2 5.1 4.9 2017 4.9 4.8 4.6 4.4 ______Source: North Carolina Department of Commerce, Labor and Economic Analysis Division.
Government and Major Services
GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE
The City has a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council is the legislative body of City government and includes a Mayor and eight Council members who serve two-year terms. The Mayor and three Council members are elected at-large and the remaining five Council members are elected from districts. The Mayor is a voting member and the presiding officer of the City Council, and a Mayor Pro Tempore is elected by the City Council from among its members.
A-7 The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and administers the daily operations and programs of the City through appointed department heads and staff members. The City provides services to its citizens in the following areas: police, fire, public transit, solid waste collection and disposal, streets, water and sewer service, public improvements, parks and recreation, libraries and general administrative services.
EDUCATION
The County has a consolidated school system, financial support for which is provided by County, State and federal sources. The following table shows the number of public elementary, middle and secondary schools and average daily membership for the six most recent school years:
Elementary Middle Secondary (Grades K-5) (Grades 6-8) (Grades 9-12) School Year No. ADM No. ADM No. ADM 2012-13 69 33,046 22 16,837 28 22,720 2013-14 69 32,346 22 16,589 28 22,852 2014-15 69 32,237 22 16,229 28 23,036 2015-16 69 32,748 22 15,542 28 23,139 2016-17 69 31,996 22 15,714 28 22,633 2017-18 69 32,296 22 15,906 28 22,662 ______Note: Average Daily Membership (“ADM”) (determined by the actual records at the school) is computed by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction on a uniform basis for all public schools in the State. The ADM computation is used as a basis for teacher allotments and for distribution of local funds if there is more than one school unit within the County.
Source: Guilford County School Administrative Unit.
Seven institutions of higher education, three of which offer night classes at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are located in the City. Student enrollments for these institutions for the 2017-2018 academic year based on a survey of such colleges and universities are approximately as follows:
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro 19,922 North Carolina A&T State University 13,656 Guilford Technical Community College 11,177 Elon University1 6,791 Guilford College 1,809 Greensboro College 1,037 Bennett College 474 ______1 Includes the undergraduate campus enrollment that is not located in the City.
RECREATION AND SPORTS
The City has over 3,000 acres of developed park sites and over 8,000 acres of undeveloped land from open space dedications. There are five regional parks and two public golf courses that represent over one-half of the City’s park system at over 3,500 acres. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department has been accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (“CAPRA”) since 2006 and was most recently reaccredited in 2017. The Department is currently one of only 166 agencies in the United States to receive the national accreditation, which shows the City’s high level of
A-8 commitment to developing a standard of excellence throughout the organization that meets or exceeds National Recreation and Park Association and CAPRA national standards. The Greensboro Sportsplex is a multi-sport facility owned and operated by the City offering hockey, basketball, volleyball, badminton and soccer. This 106,000 square foot facility contains eight basketball and volleyball courts, three indoor soccer fields and two roller hockey rinks. The facility has meeting room space and areas for special events available on a rental basis. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department is also a three-time winner of the National Gold Medal for Excellence in Leisure Services.
The City is currently undergoing a new 20-year master plan update, Plan2Play. The current plan expired in 2017, and the new plan will be completed in fall 2018. The new plan will provide not only the vision, goals, strategies and recommendations for enhancing and expanding park and recreational opportunities for residents, but will also include a maintenance management plan for the next 20 years. During the community engagement period from March to June 2018, the City received over 3,000 online surveys, 870 ideas from eleven community events and over 2,000 ideas from public participation boards at local libraries and recreation centers. The City’s Downtown Greenway, that will allow residents to walk or bike safely across the City, will be a 4-mile downtown pedestrian and cycling loop funded through a public-private partnership. The greenway will connect the 90-plus miles of greenways and trails that already exist within the City and also connect to a broader network of trails and parks, including statewide efforts such as the Mountains to the Sea Trail. Construction costs are estimated at $36 million with the City contributing up to $26 million from bond funds and state and federal funding. Phase I and portions of Phase III of the loop, equating to approximately 3/4 of a mile, are already open and other phases are under construction or in design. The full project is expected to be completed by 2020.
In addition, a large private bequest donating LeBauer Park, a $10 million public park, recently opened in 2016 in close proximity to the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts Center site. The park features a commissioned sculpture funded by a $1 million grant and designed by internationally recognized artist, Janet Echelman. The park includes a 17,000 square-foot event lawn with aerial sculpture, an interactive water feature plaza, a children’s play area, a dog park and a putting green. Adjacent to the park inside the Greensboro Cultural Center, the recently constructed Van Dyke Performance Space opened in 2016 and was made possible by a $1 million gift from the bequest of Jan Van Dyke to create a dance- centric performance space in the City’s downtown area.
The City’s newest facility, the Barber Park Community Building and Ruth Wicker Tribute to Women, opened in 2018 and offers residents a beautiful new indoor venue to use for rentals and special events. In addition, a dynamic exhibit featuring women important to the City’s history is located in the facility. This approximately $3.5 million facility was constructed, in part, using private funds provided by the estate of Ruth Wicker.
The Rotary Club of Greensboro is funding a $1.8 million carousel project in the Battleground Park District, which will be operated by the Greensboro Science Center. The schematic design of phase one has started in this area with hopes to revitalize this area. The Battleground Park District is 400 acres in the heart of the City containing the Guilford Courthouse National Park, the Natural Science Center, Country Park and Forest Lawn Cemetery.
The City is currently funding the construction of improvements to the Greensboro Science Center, which is owned by the City and operated by a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The improvements total approximately $20 million and are being constructed in three phases. Phase one is complete and includes a 22,000 square foot building and an approximately 119,500 gallon aquarium, the Wiseman Aquarium, which is the State’s only centrally located “inland” aquarium. The Wiseman Aquarium opened in June 2013 with over 430,000 in attendance during its first year of operation. SKYWILD, an aerial attraction of ropes, platforms and zip lines designed for education, family
A-9 entertainment, physical fitness, team-building and leadership training, opened in 2015. Prehistoric Passages: Realm of Dragons opened in November 2017 and features modern day dinosaurs and fascinating fossils. New technology and special effects interpret this exhibit like never before. Phase two improvements will also include construction of Wunderworld, an underground educational wing. Phase three will transform the 10-acre lower west valley of the Animal Discovery Zoo into Revolution Ridge – Life on the Edge, an exclusive and immersive zoological experience which will be “revolutionary” in terms of zoo design, educational technology and dedication to species preservation. Current upgrades and improvements include renovation of the tiger exhibit, renovation of the former Greensboro Council of Garden Clubs building into the Science Advancement through Innovative Learning (SAIL) Center and the addition of 127 new parking spaces at the facility. The Greensboro Science Center ranked number three in the State as the top field trip attraction receiving students, visitors and educators from throughout the State. The Greensboro Science Center is the only facility in the State to offer an accredited science museum, zoological park, OnmiSphere Theater and aquarium in a single destination. In April 2014, the Center earned the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation, an award that only 223 of the more than 2,000 facilities nationally that exhibit animals receive. In October 2014, the Greensboro Science Center received a $1 million private donation to expand the Wiseman Aquarium. The Wiseman Aquarium expansion opened in March 2017 and showcases diverse species of marine life while relaying messages about ocean conservation.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital Operating Corporation (the “Operating Corporation”) operates inpatient acute care hospital facilities on six campuses. Four hospital campuses are located in the City, with the fifth and sixth located in Reidsville and Burlington, North Carolina. The four locations in the City are: The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital (“Cone Hospital”), The Women’s Hospital of Greensboro (“Women’s Hospital”), Wesley Long Hospital and the Behavioral Health Center. The Reidsville location is Annie Penn Memorial Hospital (“Annie Penn Hospital”) and the Burlington location is Alamance Regional Medical Center. The Operating Corporation’s current bed count is as follows:
Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital 517 Alamance Regional Medical Center 238 Wesley Long Hospital 175 Women’s Hospital 134 Annie Penn Hospital 110 Moses H. Cone Behavioral Health Hospital 80 Total 1,254
The Operating Corporation’s other major facilities include the MedCenter with locations in Kernersville and High Point and the Behavioral Health Center, the Regional Cancer Center, the Developmental and Psychological Center, the Nutrition and Diabetes Management Center, the Occupational Health Services Center, the Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, the Urgent Care Center, the Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, the Center for Pain and Rehabilitative Medicine, the Le Bauer Healthcare and HeartCare Medical Clinics and various medical office buildings located within the City.
Several medical and retirement facilities for the elderly are also located in the City and surrounding area. These facilities are classified according to the needs of the elderly, including skilled nursing care, intermediate nursing care and assisted living. Principal facilities offering a continuum of care include Kindred Hospital, Golden Living Center - Starmount, Evergreens Senior Healthcare System, Brithaven of Guilford, Blumenthal Jewish Nursing and Rehab Center, Heartland Living, Carolina Commons, Heritage Greens, Village Green, Well-Spring, Whitestone, Hearthside and Friends Homes.
A-10 Assisted living facilities include Carriage House, Abbotswood at Irving Park, Brighton Gardens, Brookdale, Woodland Place, Wellington Oaks, and Morningview at Irving Park, Spring Arbor and Holden Heights.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Several organizations in the City provide a variety of cultural programs for the enjoyment of its residents. The United Arts Council of Greensboro provides financial support and actively promotes the many theatrical, musical and art programs in the City, including the Center for Creative Arts, the Eastern Music Festival, Triad Stage and the Carolina Theatre.
The City will launch the inaugural year of the North Carolina Folk Festival in early September 2018. The outdoor three-day event will host approximately 300 artist, musicians, dancers, storytellers and craftspeople with more than 30 different musical groups performing on as many as seven outdoor performance venues throughout downtown Greensboro. The North Carolina Folk Festival will take the place of the National Folk Festival the City hosted from 2015 to 2017. In 2017, the National Folk Festival generated an estimated economic impact of more than $12 million, the North Carolina Folk Festival is expected to bring benefits to the City as well.
The Festival Arts Center, a multi-million dollar facility in the City’s downtown area, includes art galleries, an outdoor performance theatre, rehearsal studios and offices of the City’s Performing Arts Section and the United Arts Council. Programs of the Parks and Recreation Department’s Performing Arts Section include the Livestock Players Musical Theatre, the Greensboro Children’s Theater, Razz- MaTazz Musical Revue and Music for a Sunday Evening in the Park. Additional facilities for the visual and performing arts are located on the campuses of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina A&T State University and at the War Memorial Coliseum Auditorium. The Weatherspoon Art Gallery at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the H. C. Taylor Art Gallery at North Carolina A&T State University offer nationally recognized collections of contemporary art.
TRANSPORTATION
Major expansion and maintenance of primary and secondary highways of the State system within the City limits are the responsibility of the State. As of June 30, 2018, the State highway system within the City included 457 linear miles. The City is responsible for the maintenance, expansion and improvement of the local street system. As of June 30, 2018, the local street system included 1,088 paved linear miles.
The City is served by rail, air and highways. Interstate Highways 40 (east-west) and 85 (north- south) presently serve the City, and plans are underway to bring Interstate Highway 73 (north-south) through the City. A network of U.S. Highways, including U.S. Highways 29-29A, 70-70A, 220 and 421, link the City with points in the southern, northern and mid-western United States.
The Piedmont Improvement Program is a North Carolina Department of Transportation (“NCDOT”) initiative to update rail service and facilities on the State’s rail network. These projects are largely funded through federal stimulus money through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The Federal Railroad Administration awarded the State a $546.5 million grant from that program in 2010. A cooperative agreement with the Federal Railroad Administration specifies that $520 million of the money goes directly to the Piedmont Improvement Program. To complete the work, NCDOT is partnering with the North Carolina Railroad Company, the owner of the Raleigh to Charlotte railroad
A-11 corridor, and Norfolk Southern Railway and CSX Transportation, which are performing the track construction.
The Greensboro Urban Loop, Interstate Highway 840, a 44-mile State-constructed beltway around the City, is in progress at a total cost of approximately $900 million, with more than 30 miles of roadway already completed. The southern, eastern and western portions of the loop are currently open. Construction has started on the two remaining legs of the northern portion of the loop with an estimated completion date of 2022. This entire project has been fully funded by the State.
PTIA, located eight miles from the City’s downtown area, is a major commercial and private aviation center that is owned and operated by the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority (the “Authority”). The Authority provides a complete line of aviation services, including air taxi service, aviation training and aircraft sales. Major passenger carriers include Delta, United, Frontier and American. For the calendar year ended December 31, 2017, approximately 43 scheduled daily departures carried 879,198 enplaned passengers.
In June 2012, the Authority developed plans for $350 million in capital projects, including building a taxiway over a future interstate, buying more land, moving roads, relocating a radar tower and grading large tracts of land. The capital projects will open approximately 900 acres for aviation-related development. The projects will be partially funded by the Authority with existing revenues and federal grants, but additional funding will be needed from federal, State and local assistance, with participation from both the public and the private sector. A $34 million taxiway featuring a 214-foot wide bridge over future Interstate Highway 73 was completed in the summer of 2017. This taxiway connects the Airport to hundreds of acres within a mile of the runway and will help attract large aviation tenants. NCDOT is currently under contract with a company to complete the design and build the Interstate Highway 73 connector project.
Federal Express began operating a major aircraft hub and cargo handling facility at PTIA in 2009. The cargo handling facility is located on an approximately 160-acre site that has been leased by the Authority to Federal Express for an initial term of 25 years. The cost of the $500 million cargo handling facility was funded by Federal Express, and the Authority constructed a new 9,000-foot public runway parallel to an existing runway, as well as related taxiway, airfield and road improvements. The expansive FedEx Ground distribution center is part of an ongoing nationwide network expansion and transit time acceleration plan to boost daily package volume capacity and further enhance the speed and service capabilities of its network. The 415,000 square foot hub has a workforce of approximately 550 full and part-time employees and approximately 200 independent contractor opportunities. This facility features the latest in automated handling technology and can process 24,000 packages per hour. With projected future expansion, the hub could eventually process 45,000 packages per hour serving the Southeast Region of the United States.
PUBLIC SERVICE ENTERPRISES
The City furnishes water, sanitary sewer and solid waste collection and disposal services to its residents and those of adjacent areas. The City also operates the Greensboro Coliseum Complex, a sports arena, entertainment, exhibition and convention center. The City provides central business district parking through municipally owned and operated parking facilities and the Greensboro Transit Authority provides public transit service. Piedmont Natural Gas Company provides natural gas service and Duke Power Company provides electrical service, while telecommunications services are provided by AT&T and other service providers.
A-12 Water and Sewer System
The City’s consolidated water and sewer utility presently serves approximately 105,366 customers within the City and in various unincorporated areas of the County. Major users include Procter & Gamble, Stockhausen Inc., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, North Carolina A&T State University, Elastic Fabrics of America, Cone Hospital, Imperial Tobacco Company (Lorillard Tobacco Company), Shionogi Qualicaps, Precision Fabrics Group and Qorvo (RF Micro Devices).
Two water filtration plants, two pumping stations and a distribution system furnish water to the City and a portion of the unincorporated areas of the County. Three City-owned lakes, fed by Brushy Creek, Horsepen Creek and Reedy Fork Creek, supply raw water. The water filtration plants have a combined capacity of 54 million gallons per day (“MGD”). Average daily water consumption for calendar year 2017 was 33.29 MGD. The City has a 30 million gallon (“MG”) finished water storage capacity, consisting of 17.5 MG of clearwell storage and 12.5 MG of elevated storage capacity.
In 2010, the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority (“PTRWA”) jointly sponsored by six area local governments, including the City, completed the $140 million Randleman Dam, Water Plant and Lake Project that is designed to meet anticipated 21st century water needs. This project serves Randolph County and five municipalities located in Guilford and Randolph Counties: the City, High Point, Jamestown, Archdale and Randleman. In October 2010, PTRWA began operation of a water treatment plant which currently provides 14.7 MGD of treated water for its members. Such plant is designed to be ultimately expanded to 48 MGD in additional phases to be constructed as needed.
The City maintains emergency connections to the City of High Point, the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utility Commission (“WSFCUC”), the City of Reidsville and the City of Burlington. While the High Point and WSFCUC agreements are available on an “as needed” basis, the Reidsville and Burlington agreements contain mandatory minimum purchase levels. In addition, in order to ensure its future water supply, the City purchased a dam on the Haw River and built an emergency pipeline from the river to Lake Townsend. The 30-inch line runs approximately 13 miles and can be used in emergencies to supplement the City’s other water sources.
The City operates one wastewater treatment plant using the activated sludge process and it is a tertiary plant employing nitrification. The T. Z. Osborne Wastewater Treatment Plant has a total capacity of 56 MGD, and its average daily sewage treatment during calendar year 2017 was 30.7 MGD.
Solid Waste System
The City provides weekly curbside solid waste, recyclable and yard waste collection. The City also provides collection services to certain commercial customers and multi-family residences within City limits. Private haulers collect all waste not collected by the City, including commercial waste and household waste in certain areas of the County.
The City operates a refuse transfer station, a yard waste processing facility and a construction and demolition (“C&D”) landfill. The yard waste facility and C&D landfill are located at the White Street landfill facility, which also includes a methane gas recovery system from the inactive landfill. The recovered gas is currently flared off according to permit. In addition, the City contracts services for the operation of a household hazardous waste (“HHW”) facility and for recyclable material processing at a privately-owned material recovery facility. Solid waste collection, disposal and recycling activities of the City are supported by tipping fees, HHW fees, recycling material revenue and commercial collection fees.
A-13 The White Street Landfill consists of approximately 980 acres, substantially all of which is owned by the City. Approximately 94 acres of the landfill site have been leased by the County to the City. Phase I of the landfill was closed in 1978, and Phase II of the landfill was closed in December 1997 in accordance with federal regulations. In May 1997, the City financed the construction of three cells of Phase III of the landfill, of which the first cell was completed in 1997 and reached full capacity in 2001. The second cell began filling in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002 and reached full capacity during fiscal year 2005. The third cell began filling in May 2005 and is approximately 53% filled. In November 2005, the City issued $8.4 million of special obligation bonds to construct a solid waste refuse transfer station in lieu of further expansion of the White Street Landfill. By policy, disposal activities at the landfill are limited. The landfill currently includes disposal of construction and demolition debris and composting activities. The landfill will also be used as a back-up disposal site in the event the transfer station is not operational or when there are disruptions in the transport of waste to other landfills.
Greensboro Coliseum Complex
The Greensboro Coliseum Complex (the “Coliseum Complex”) is a multi-building facility designed to serve the citizens of the City and the surrounding area through a broad range of activities, including athletic events, cultural arts, concerts, theater, educational activities, fairs, exhibits and public and private events of all kinds, including conventions, convocations and trade and consumer shows. The Coliseum Complex has been in service since 1959, with over 60 million in attendance over that time period. The Coliseum Complex is among the 20 largest facilities of its type nationally.
The Coliseum Complex consists of eight venues, including the 22,000-seat Greensboro Coliseum, which has a long and distinguished history of hosting ACC and NCAA basketball championships, as well as concerts by some of the top names in the recording industry, including Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé and Jay-Z.
The Coliseum Complex venues also include the 167,000-square foot Special Events Center that includes three exhibition halls, a 5,000-seat mini-arena and eight meeting rooms, the 300-seat Odeon Theatre, The Terrace, White Oak Amphitheatre, Greensboro Aquatic Center, ACC Hall of Champions and The Fieldhouse.
Located in the western portion of the Greensboro Coliseum Complex’s Special Events Center, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Hall of Champions celebrates past, present and future conference success through the design and use of interactive displays, unique institutional exhibits and multi-purpose program space that showcases the league’s storied history.
The 78,323-square-foot indoor Greensboro Aquatic Center (“GAC”) has become one of the top aquatic venues in the nation. Built at a cost of nearly $19 million in 2011, the state-of-the-art, multi- purpose, three-pool facility has provided the City the opportunity to host high school and collegiate events, USA Swimming meets, Masters swimming and U.S. Water Polo events, as well as many local, regional, national and international competitions. The GAC intends to start construction of an additional 50-meter, 10-lane practice pool housed in a building that will adjoin the existing GAC. The GAC operates 15 hours per day, and the estimated economic impact of GAC events to date has exceeded $130 million.
Formerly known as the Pavilion, The Fieldhouse debuted in 2016. This newly renovated, state- of-the-art structure is the home of the Charlotte Hornets’ NBA G League franchise, the Greensboro Swarm. The Fieldhouse features a 30,000-square-foot, column-free area along with 8,500 square feet of support space that includes locker rooms, dressing rooms and its own box office. In addition to 24 annual
A-14 Swarm home basketball games, The Fieldhouse also hosts other sporting events including roller derby, boxing, gymnastics and wrestling, as well as meetings, tradeshows, graduation ceremonies and concerts.
The Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts, which is expected to open in early 2020, will be a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of approximately 3,000. This venue will be located in the City’s downtown area and will be managed by the staff of the Coliseum Complex. This facility will host a diverse variety of events, including concerts, touring Broadway productions, Guilford College’s Bryan Series, Greensboro Symphony Orchestra performances, comedy shows and all types of family entertainment.
Event attendance at the Coliseum Complex for the past five fiscal years is presented in the following table:
Year Attendance 2014 1,448,926 2015 1,619,781 2016 1,210,612 2017 1,354,744 2018 1,252,887
Since 2000, the Greensboro Coliseum has hosted the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament in 2003, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015, returning in 2020, and the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament every year from 2000-2016 and 2018 and will continue to do so through 2022. In addition, the Greensboro Coliseum hosted the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament in 2006 and 2007, returning in 2019, and the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament in 2001, 2006, 2009 and 2012, returning in 2020.
The Greensboro Coliseum is also home to an arena football franchise, the Carolina Cobras of the National Arena League, which began their inaugural season in April 2018.
Parking System
The parking system of the City provides both on-street and off-street parking in the central business district. On-street parking is provided on a metered basis and off-street parking by surface lots and four parking garages. The four parking garages provide 2,814 spaces in the central business district that are supplemented by 817 on-street metered parking spaces and several parking lots providing 3,631 spaces. Growth and development in the downtown area has created the need for additional off-street parking. The City plans to fund and build two additional parking garages in the City’s downtown area in the near future to meet the parking needs of future projects, as well as development currently underway.
Transit System
The Greensboro Transit Authority (“GTA”) operates a “timed-transfer” bus system consisting of 16 routes, using 45 transit buses, of which 100% are handicapped accessible and eleven are hybrid electric diesel buses. GTA also operates the Higher Education Area Transit service consisting of five routes using ten buses, of which 100% are handicapped accessible. In addition, GTA provides an Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) supplemental paratransit service for persons with disabilities by utilizing a fleet of 50 handicapped-accessible vans, of which nine are hybrid electric diesel vans. GTA contracts with TransDev Services Incorporated to operate both the fixed bus route and ADA supplemental paratransit services seven days per week. Before October 1991, Duke Power Company had operated the bus system under a 50-year franchise agreement. In consideration for being relieved of this obligation,
A-15 Duke Power Company agreed to pay the City $1.5 million annually over the term of 37 years, with 9 years currently remaining. In addition to the annual payment from Duke Power Company, the City finances the bus system operations with additional funds from federal Urban Mass Transit grants, State grants, fare box revenues and a special tax of $.0350 per $100 assessed valuation.
Debt Information
LEGAL DEBT LIMIT
In accordance with the provisions of the State Constitution and The Local Government Bond Act, as amended, the City had the statutory capacity to incur additional net debt in the approximate amount of $1,997,148,769 as of June 30, 2018.
OUTSTANDING GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT
Principal Outstanding as of June 30, General Obligation Bonds and Notes 2015 2016 2017 2018 Refunding $ 24,935,000 $ 31,700,000 $ 87,385,0001 $ 78,170,000 Housing 6,300,000 6,300,000 6,300,000 6,300,000 Other 118,465,000 99,950,000 73,345,000 68,260,000 Bond Anticipation Notes 13,635,363 31,023,007 18,497,3151 51,621,9211 Total Debt Outstanding $163,335,3632 $168,973,0072 $185,527,3152 $203,351,9212 ______1 Bonds and Notes Issued: 2016-17 $62,590,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2016, 2.168277% true interest cost. Not to exceed $50,000,000 General Obligation Public Improvement Bond Anticipation Note, Series 2017 - variable rate draw-down note. 2017-18 $9,245,000 General Obligation Public Improvement Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2018A, maturing October 18, 2018, 3.00% interest rate. $5,325,000 Taxable General Obligation Public Improvement Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2018A, maturing October 18, 2018, 3.25% interest rate. 2 This amount does not include refunded bonds with respect to which an escrow agent holds in trust certain obligations of or obligations the principal of and interest on which are unconditionally guaranteed by, the United States of America, which mature at such times and in such amounts and bear interest payable at such times and in such amounts so that sufficient moneys will be available, together with cash deposited with such escrow agent, to pay when due all principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the refunded bonds to and including their respective maturities or dates of redemption.
A-16 GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT RATIOS
Total GO Debt to Total Total Assessed Total Assessed Assessed GO Debt Valuation At June 30 GO Debt1 Valuation Valuation Population2 Per Capita Per Capita 2014 $164,395,718 $25,423,086,180 0.65% 280,280 $587 $90,706 2015 163,335,363 25,272,730,744 0.65 282,472 578 89,470 2016 168,973,007 25,670,533,471 0.66 284,328 594 90,285 2017 185,527,315 26,075,817,552 0.71 284,3283 653 91,710 2018 203,351,921 27,506,258,623 0.74 284,3283 715 96,741
After Bonds Now Offered are Issued $298,490,0004 $27,968,100,0005 1.07% 284,3283 $1,050 $98,366 ______1 Does not include refunded bonds as described under “Outstanding General Obligation Debt” above. 2 Estimate of North Carolina Office of Budget and Management. 3 For purposes of this table, the 2016 estimate is being used. 4 Preliminary; subject to change. 5 Estimated.
A-17 GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE REQUIREMENTS AND MATURITY SCHEDULE
Fiscal Year Principal1 Principal and Interest1 Bonds Offered Hereby2 2018-19 $14,485,000 $21,531,958 -- 2019-20 14,595,000 20,954,903 $7,750,000 2020-21 15,025,000 20,695,643 6,790,000 2021-22 15,175,000 16,561,123 7,290,000 2022-23 12,400,000 13,853,662 7,290,000 2023-24 10,275,000 13,357,552 7,290,000 2024-25 10,270,000 13,125,092 7,290,000 2025-26 10,545,000 11,236,908 7,290,000 2026-27 9,170,000 10,800,498 7,290,000 2027-28 9,170,000 6,544,462 7,290,000 2028-29 5,355,000 6,339,990 7,290,000 2029-30 5,355,000 6,130,780 7,290,000 2030-31 5,350,000 3,966,100 7,290,000 2031-32 3,350,000 3,330,300 7,290,000 2032-33 2,850,000 3,209,500 7,290,000 2033-34 2,850,000 2,408,700 7,290,000 2034-35 2,170,000 2,321,900 7,290,000 2035-36 2,170,000 2,235,100 7,290,000 2036-37 2,170,000 2,235,100 7,290,000 2037-38 -- -- 7,290,000 2038-39 -- -- 7,290,000 Total $152,730,000 $200,625,329 $145,760,000 ______1 The table above includes the outstanding portions of the (1) $5,700,000 Public Improvement Bonds, Series 1998 issued on a variable rate basis initially in a weekly mode with a maximum rate of 12% and maturing April 1, 2019 and 2020, (2) $6,300,000 Housing and Redevelopment Bonds, Series 1998 - Taxable issued on a variable rate basis initially in a weekly mode with a maximum rate of 15% and maturing April 1, 2022, (3) $10,000,000 General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2003B issued on a variable rate basis initially in a weekly mode with a maximum rate of 12% and maturing February 1, 2023, (4) $10,000,000 General Obligation Street Improvement Bonds, Series 2006 issued on a variable rate basis initially in a weekly mode with a maximum rate of 12% and maturing February 1, 2026 and (5) $10,000,000 General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2008B issued on a variable rate basis initially in a weekly mode with a maximum rate of 12% and maturing February 1, 2028. Interest on the Series 1998 Bonds issued as tax-exempt bonds is assumed to equal the interest rate swap rate related to such bonds (3.46% per annum). Interest on the Series 2003B Bonds and the Series 2008B Bonds is calculated at an assumed rate of 5.00% per annum. Interest on the Series 2006 Bonds is calculated at an assumed rate of 6.0%. Interest on the Series 1998 Bonds issued as taxable bonds is calculated at an assumed rate 6.50% per annum. The above table includes total interest on certain bonds subject to a federal government interest subsidy. The above table excludes debt service relating to the outstanding bond anticipation notes being refunded by the Bonds now being offered.
2 Includes principal only. Preliminary; subject to change.
A-18 OTHER LONG-TERM COMMITMENTS
The City has issued certain limited obligation bonds and entered into certain installment financing agreements for land, buildings and equipment payable through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2043. The following sets forth the future payments with respect to those financings:
Fiscal Year Principal Interest1 Total 2019 $5,713,382 $2,249,959 $7,963,341 2020 5,039,035 2,049,572 7,088,607 2021 5,707,667 2,468,165 8,175,832 2022 5,572,959 2,844,353 8,417,312 2023 3,954,552 2,710,489 6,665,041 2024 4,096,271 2,564,497 6,660,768 2025 4,255,687 2,412,351 6,668,038 2026 4,417,012 2,250,512 6,667,524 2027 2,885,000 2,104,387 4,989,387 2028 2,995,000 2,003,078 4,998,078 2029 3,095,000 1,896,147 4,991,147 2030 3,230,000 1,764,211 4,994,211 2031 3,350,000 1,643,971 4,993,971 2032 2,910,000 1,516,939 4,426,939 2033 3,020,000 1,413,726 4,433,726 2034 3,125,000 1,304,242 4,429,242 2035 3,240,000 1,189,526 4,429,526 2036 3,375,000 1,050,912 4,425,912 2037 3,525,000 906,411 4,431,411 2038 3,675,000 755,390 4,430,390 2039 3,815,000 615,348 4,430,348 2040 3,965,000 467,619 4,432,619 2041 2,550,000 314,063 2,864,063 2042 2,650,000 213,389 2,863,389 2043 2,755,000 108,767 2,863,767 ______1 Includes two taxable variable rate financings at assumed rates of 3.2% and 4% per annum, respectively.
Note: The above table excludes the debt service on two variable rate draw-down limited obligation notes that are is expected to be refinanced with limited obligation bonds to be issued by the City in November 2018.
Additionally, the City has issued several series of water and sewer combined enterprise system revenue and revenue refunding bonds to finance or refinance various water and sewer infrastructure projects, $257,785,000 principal amount of which are currently outstanding. Net revenues of the City’s water and sanitary sewer system are pledged to retire these bonds. The total debt service requirements through the final maturity of these bonds in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2047 (assuming a 4.5% interest rate for variable rate bonds) is $533,136,293. The debt service requirements on these bonds for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018 totaled $23,455,931. Additionally, the City has issued a combined enterprise system revenue bond anticipation note in the aggregate principal amount not to exceed $85,000,000, which is secured by the net revenues of the City’s water and sanitary sewer system.
A-19 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AUTHORIZED AND UNISSUED
See “THE BONDS - Authorizations and Purposes” in the front part of this Official Statement for information relating to authorized and unissued general obligation bonds of the City.
GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT INFORMATION FOR OVERLAPPING UNIT AS OF JUNE 30, 2018 Total GO Debt Authorized Total GO GO 2016 Tax and Unissued Debt Debt Estimated Assessed Rate Per Per Unit Population Valuation $100 Utility Other Utility Other Capita Guilford County 520,230 $50,765,521,531 $0.7305 -- $35,215,000 -- $708,735,000 $1,362
Sources: North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management; County Budget and Finance Office.
DEBT OUTLOOK
The City’s proposed ten-year Capital Improvement Plan (‘CIP) includes approximately $1.4 billion for projects expected to be undertaken during fiscal years 2019 through 2028 and outlines a future financing plan to maintain the City’s current infrastructure and develop new facilities where needed to help achieve the City Council’s strategic service priorities. A substantial portion of the CIP relates to street improvements and water resources projects. Additional amounts are placed for parks and recreation projects, libraries and fire stations. Unauthorized general obligation bonds funding represents 20.2% of the current plan. The CIP also includes $154.5 million from grant funding.
In addition to the Bonds now being offered, as part of the CIP, the City anticipates issuing or incurring the following indebtedness during the 2018 calendar year: (1) approximately $32.5 million limited obligation bonds to refinance certain outstanding limited obligation notes and other indebtedness previously issued or incurred to finance various improvements to the Coliseum Complex and to finance additional improvements to the Coliseum Complex and (2) approximately $40 million limited obligation bonds to finance new downtown parking decks.
A-20 Tax Information
GENERAL INFORMATION
Fiscal Year Ended or Ending June 30, 2018 2019 2016 2017 (Unaudited) (Estimated) Assessed Valuation: Assessment Ratio1 100% 100% 100% 100% Real Property2 $20,261,492,234 $20,485,403,901 $21,906,898,824 $22,147,874,712 Personal Property 4,791,348,871 4,953,350,708 4,928,328,300 5,140,618,670 Public Service Companies3 617,692,366 637,062,943 671,031,499 679,606,618 Total Assessed Valuation $25,670,533,471 $26,075,817,552 $27,506,258,623 $27,968,100,000 Rate per $100 .6325 .6325 .6325 .6325 Levy4 $162,366,124 $164,929,546 $173,977,086 $176,898,233 Assessed Valuation Per Capita $89,963 $89,848 $94,777 $95,477 ______1 Percentage of appraised value has been established by statute. 2 Property is revalued every five years and the most recent revaluation was performed in 2017, effective in January 2018. The next revaluation will be performed in 2022 and will be effective in January 2023. 3 Valuation of railroads, telephone companies, and other utilities as determined by the North Carolina Property Tax Commission. 4 Excludes levy of the Business Improvement District tax as described under “Commercial, Industrial and Institutional Profile” above.
TAX COLLECTIONS
Percentage of Fiscal Year Prior Years’ Current Year’s Current Year’s Ended June 30 Levy Collected Levy Collected Levy Collected 2014 $2,123,775 $163,806,514 99.69% 2015 1,955,709 162,208,900 99.81 2016 712,603 164,585,165 99.75 2017 482,112 170,341,307 99.70 2018 -- 173,041,110 99.39 ______Note: Taxes collected for prior year’s levy, current year’s levy and the percentage of the current year’s levy are updated as actual collections occur for taxes in the respective year of the levy.
A-21 TWENTY LARGEST TAXPAYERS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-18
Assessed Tax Name Type of Enterprise Valuation Levy Procter & Gamble Product Manufacturing $311,310,940 $1,969,041 ITG Brands, LLC Cigarette Manufacturing 239,718,440 1,516,219 Duke Energy Electric Utility 231,400,830 1,463,610 Koury Corporation1 Real Estate Development 225,175,853 1,424,237 Lincoln National Corporation Insurance 202,996,649 1,283,954 CBL, LLC Real Estate Development 165,890,300 1,049,256 Highwoods/Forsyth Ltd. Real Estate Development 136,798,430 865,250 RF Micro Devices, Inc. (Qorvo) Service Communications 114,260,057 722,695 TYCO Electronics (AMP, Inc.) Electronics Manufacturing 95,613,796 604,757 VF Corporation (Wrangler) Textile Manufacturing 94,821,363 599,745 Colonial Pipeline Company Petroleum Carrier 93,748,454 592,959 Harris Teeter Food Distribution 91,173,113 576,670 GGP-Four Seasons LLC Real Estate Development 88,908,464 562,346 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Retail 87,312,020 552,249 Koury Ventures, LTD1 Real Estate Development 74,722,652 472,621 Time Warner Cable Southwest LLC Entertainment Service 73,927,702 467,593 Evonik Stockhausen, Inc. Specialty Chemicals 69,012,515 436,504 Greensboro Auto Auction Auction Company 68,719,665 434,652 Bellsouth Service Communications 62,892,280 397,794 Syngenta/Novartis Crop Production Agribusiness, Chemicals 59,309,699 375,102 ______1 Koury Corporation is a privately owned builder, developer, owner and manager of a diversified real estate portfolio. Most of Koury Corporation’s holdings were built by the construction division of the company. Koury Ventures, LTD is an arm of Koury Corporation, which is the sole developer of Grandover, a 600-acre residential and commercial development.
2017-18 Budget Commentary
Based on unaudited figures, General Fund revenues for fiscal year 2017-18 were 100.4% of budgeted amounts, while General Fund expenditures equaled 96.5% of budgeted amounts. The fiscal year 2017-18 budget provided for a $6.4 million General Fund balance appropriation; however, only about $169,000 was actually appropriated. Sales tax collections increased by 3.3% over the previous fiscal year.
2018-19 Budget Outlook
The fiscal year 2018-19 City-wide property tax rate remains at $.6325 per $100 assessed valuation for the ninth consecutive year. The General Fund budget increased 1.9% to $291.8 million and the City’s total budget increased 1.7% to $543.5 million. The budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 provides for a total net increase of 14 full-time equivalent positions for all operating funds, resulting in a total of 3,172 funded positions.
An increase in water user rates of 3.5% for all customers located inside and outside the corporate limits of the City was adopted effective July 1, 2018 to help fund the water and sewer system, while keeping customer rates competitive as compared to peer cities throughout the state.
A-22 The property tax base for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 is estimated at approximately $28 billion, an increase of 1.53% over the prior fiscal year. Sales tax revenues for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 are projected to increase by 5.7% above revised estimates for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. The utility sales tax is projected to be $16.23 million for fiscal year ending June 30, 2019, which is 41.5% higher than the revised estimate for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. The unassigned fund balance in the General Fund remains at 9% of budget, or $26.2 million, in accordance with City policy.
Pension Plans
The following information on the pension plans is presented on the calendar year basis, whereas the information in the independent auditor’s footnote was presented on the fiscal year basis.
The City participates in the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System (the “System”). The System is a service agency administered through a board of trustees by the State for public employees of counties, cities, boards, commissions and other similar governmental entities. While the State Treasurer is the custodian of System funds, administrative costs are borne by the participating employer governmental entities. The State makes no contributions to the System.
The System provides, on a uniform System-wide basis, retirement and, at each employer’s option, death benefits from contributions made by employers and employees. Employee members contribute six percent of their individual compensation. Each new employer makes a normal contribution plus, where applicable, a contribution to fund any accrued liability over a 24-year period. The employer contribution rate for fiscal year 2017-18 was 7.50% for general employees and 8.25% for law enforcement officers. The employer contribution rate for fiscal year 2018-19 is 7.75% for general employees and 8.50% for law enforcement officers. The accrued liability contribution rate is determined separately for each employer and covers the liability of the employer for benefits based on employees’ service rendered prior to the date the employer joins the System.
Members qualify for a vested deferred benefit at age 50 with at least 20 years of service or at age 60 after at least five years of creditable service to the unit of local government. Unreduced benefits are available: at age 65, with at least five years of creditable service; at age 60, with at least 25 years of creditable service; or after 30 years of creditable service, regardless of age. Benefit payments are computed by taking an average of the annual compensation for the four consecutive years of membership service yielding the highest average. This average is then adjusted by a percentage formula, by a total years of service factor, and by an age service factor if the individual is not eligible for unreduced benefits.
Contributions to the System are determined on an actuarial basis.
For information concerning the City’s participation in the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System and the Supplemental Retirement Income Plan of North Carolina, see the Notes to the City’s audited financial statements included in Appendix E hereto.
Financial statements and required supplementary information for the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System are included in the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (“CAFR”) for the State. Please refer to the State’s CAFR for additional information.
Other Post-Employment Benefits
The City provides certain post-employment health care and other benefits (“OPEB”) as part of the total compensation package offered to attract and retain the services of qualified employees. These
A-23 benefits are available to retirees who participate in the System and who, at the time of their retirement, meet certain service requirements.
To meet the post-employment health care and other benefits reporting requirements of GASB Statement No. 75, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Postemployment Benefits Other than Pensions, the City obtained an actuarial valuation of its OPEB based on data for June 30, 2016. The total OPEB liability was then rolled forward to the measurement date of June 30, 2018, using standard actuarial roll forward techniques. The actuarial valuation quantified a net OPEB Liability of $130,158,761 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, to be amortized over 25 years, and an actuarially determined contribution of $11,780,773. The valuation was completed using a 4.02% discount rate.
The City largely funds OPEB on an annual pay-as-you-go basis under a self-insured plan, with actual benefits paid of approximately $7,224,634, net of retiree contributions, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, including a $2,000,000 contribution to the City’s OPEB Trust administered by the State Treasurer’s Office. The City had $17,379,922 and $20,553,581 on deposit in the OPEB Trust as of June 30, 2017 and 2018, respectively, which represents 11.71% and 13.64% funded of the total OPEB liability, respectively.
For additional information concerning OPEB and the City’s requirements, see the Notes to the City’s audited financial statements included in Appendix E hereto.
Contingent Liabilities
The City has no litigation pending which, in the opinion of the City Attorney, would materially and adversely affect the City’s ability to meet its financial obligations. Furthermore, the City has no other contingent liabilities which would materially and adversely affect the City’s ability to meet its financial obligations.
A-24 APPENDIX B
THE NORTH CAROLINA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION
The Local Government Commission (the “Commission”) is composed of nine members: the State Treasurer, the Secretary of State, the State Auditor, the Secretary of Revenue and five others by appointment (three by the Governor, one by the General Assembly upon recommendation of the President Pro Tempore of the Senate and one by the General Assembly upon recommendation of the Speaker of the House of Representatives). The State Treasurer serves as Chairman and selects the Secretary of the Commission, who heads the administrative staff serving the Commission.
A major function of the Commission is the approval, sale and delivery of substantially all North Carolina local government bonds and notes. A second key function is monitoring certain fiscal and accounting standards prescribed for units of local government by The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act. In addition, the Commission furnishes, upon request, on site assistance to units of local government concerning existing financial and accounting systems as well as aid in establishing new systems. Further, educational programs and materials are provided for local officials concerning finance and cash management.
Before any unit of local government can incur bonded indebtedness, the proposed bond issue must be approved by the Commission. In determining whether to give such approval the Commission may consider, among other things, the unit’s debt management procedures and policies, its compliance with The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act and its ability to service the proposed debt. All general obligation issues are customarily sold on the basis of formal sealed bids submitted at the Commission’s offices in Raleigh and are subsequently delivered to the successful bidder by the Commission. The Commission maintains records for all units of local government of principal and interest payments coming due on bonded indebtedness in the current and future years and monitors the payment by the units of local government of debt service through a system of monthly reports.
As a part of its role in assisting and monitoring the fiscal programs of units of local government, the Commission attempts to ensure that the units of local government follow generally accepted accounting principles, systems and practices. The Commission’s staff also counsels the units of local government in treasury and cash management, budget preparation and investment policies and procedures. Educational programs, in the form of seminars or classes, are also provided by the Commission in order to accomplish these tasks. The monitoring of the financial systems of units of local government is accomplished through the examination and analysis of the annual audited financial statements and other required reports. The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act requires each unit of local government to have its accounts audited annually by a certified public accountant or by an accountant certified by the Commission as qualified to audit local government accounts. A written contract must be submitted to the Secretary of the Commission for his approval prior to the commencement of the audit.
B-1 The Commission has the statutory authority to impound the books and records of any unit of local government and assume full control of all its financial affairs (a) when the unit defaults on any debt service payment or, in the opinion of the Commission, will default on a future debt service payment if the financial policies and practices of the unit are not improved or (b) when the unit persists, after notice and warning from the Commission, in willfully or negligently failing or refusing to comply with the provisions of The Local Government Finance Act. When the Commission takes action under this authority, the Commission is vested with all of the powers of the governing board of the unit of local government as to the levy of taxes, expenditure of money, adoption of budgets and all other financial powers conferred upon such governing board by law.
In addition, if a unit of local government fails to pay any installment of principal or interest on its outstanding debt on or before its due date and remains in default for 90 days, the Commission may take such action as it deems advisable to investigate the unit’s fiscal affairs, consult with its governing board and negotiate with its creditors in order to assist the unit in working out a plan for refinancing, adjusting or compromising such debt. When a plan is developed that the Commission finds to be fair and equitable and reasonably within the ability of the unit of local government to meet, the Commission will enter an order finding that the plan is fair, equitable and within the ability of the unit to meet and will advise the unit to take the necessary steps to implement such plan. If the governing board of the unit declines or refuses to do so within 90 days after receiving the Commission’s advice, the Commission may enter an order directing the unit to implement such plan and may apply for a court order to enforce such order. When a refinancing plan has been put into effect, the Commission has the authority (a) to require any periodic financial reports on the unit’s financial affairs that the Secretary deems necessary and (b) to approve or reject the unit’s annual budget ordinance. The governing board of the unit of local government must also obtain the approval of the Secretary of the Commission before adopting any annual budget ordinance. The power and authority granted to the Commission as described in this paragraph will continue with respect to a defaulting unit of local government until the Commission is satisfied that the unit has performed or will perform the duties required of it in the refinancing plan and until agreements made with the unit’s creditors have been performed in accordance with such plan.
B-2 APPENDIX C
CERTAIN CONSTITUTIONAL, STATUTORY AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS GOVERNING OR RELEVANT TO THE INCURRENCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDED INDEBTEDNESS BY UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
Constitutional Provisions
The North Carolina Constitution (the “Constitution”) requires the General Assembly to enact general laws relating to the borrowing of money secured by a pledge of the faith and credit and the contracting of other debts by counties, cities and towns, special districts and other units, authorities and agencies of local government and prohibits enactment of special or local acts on this subject. These general laws may be enacted for classes defined by population or other criteria.
The General Assembly has no power under the Constitution to authorize any unit of local government to contract debts secured by a pledge of its faith and credit unless approved by a majority of the qualified voters of the unit who vote thereon, except for the following purposes:
(a) to fund or refund a valid existing debt;
(b) to supply an unforeseen deficiency in the revenue;
(c) to borrow in anticipation of the collection of taxes due and payable within the current fiscal year to an amount not exceeding 50% of such taxes;
(d) to suppress riots or insurrections;
(e) to meet emergencies immediately threatening the public health or safety, as conclusively determined in writing by the Governor; and
(f) for purposes authorized by general laws uniformly applicable throughout the State, to the extent of two--thirds of the amount by which the issuing unit’s outstanding indebtedness was reduced during the next preceding fiscal year.
The Constitution requires that the power of taxation be exercised in a just and equitable manner, for public purposes only, and never be surrendered, suspended or contracted away. Since general obligation bonded indebtedness pledges the taxing power, it may therefore be incurred only for “public purposes.” The North Carolina Supreme Court determines what is and is not a public purpose within the meaning of the Constitution.
The Constitution requires voter approval for any unit of local government to give or lend its credit in aid of any person, association or corporation, and such lending of credit must be for public purposes as authorized by general law. A loan of credit is defined by the Constitution as occurring when a unit of local government exchanges its obligations with or in any way guarantees the debts of an individual, association or private corporation.
C-1 The Constitution does not impose a limit on the total indebtedness of a unit of local government.
Of the sources of revenue available to units of local government, only the property tax is subject to special Constitutional regulation. The Constitution does not mandate a general property tax; rather, it authorizes the General Assembly to classify property for taxation under two conditions: (1) each class of property selected for taxation must be taxed by uniform rule and (2) every classification must be made by general law uniformly applicable to every unit of local government. No class of property is accorded exemption from ad valorem taxation by the Constitution except property belonging to the State, counties and municipal corporations. The General Assembly may exempt cemeteries and property held for educational, scientific, literary, cultural, charitable or religious purposes and, to a value not exceeding $300, any personal property. The General Assembly may also exempt from taxation not exceeding $1,000 in value of property used as the place of residence of the owner. Property of the United States is exempt by virtue of the supremacy clause of the United States Constitution.
The Constitution requires that any property tax must be levied for purposes authorized by general law uniformly applicable throughout the State, unless approved by a majority of the qualified voters of the unit of local government who vote thereon.
Under the Constitution, property taxes levied for unit--wide purposes must be levied uniformly throughout the territorial jurisdiction of the taxing unit, but the General Assembly may enact general laws authorizing the governing body of any county, city or town to define territorial areas and to levy taxes within those areas in order to finance, provide or maintain services, facilities and functions in addition to or to a greater extent than those financed, provided or maintained for the entire county, city or town.
The Local Government Bond Act
No unit of local government has authority to incur general obligation bonded indebtedness otherwise than in accordance with the limitations and procedures prescribed in The Local Government Bond Act, G.S. Ch. 159, Art. 4 (the “Act”) and G.S. Ch. 159, Art. 7 or to issue short-¬term general obligation notes otherwise than in accordance with G.S. Ch. 159, Art. 9.
By statute, the faith and credit of the issuing unit are pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on all bonds issued under the Act according to their terms, and the power and obligation of the issuing unit to levy taxes and raise other revenues for the prompt payment of installments of principal and interest or for the maintenance of sinking funds is unrestricted as to rate or amount.
The revenues of each utility or public service enterprise owned or leased by a unit of local government are required by statute to be applied in accordance with the following priorities: (1) to pay the operating, maintenance and capital outlay expenses of the utility or enterprise; (2) to pay when due the interest on and principal of outstanding bonds issued for capital projects that are or were a part of the utility or enterprise; and (3) for any other
C-2 lawful purpose. In its discretion, an issuing unit may pledge the revenues (or any portion thereof) of a utility or enterprise for the payment of the interest on and principal of bonds issued under the Act to finance capital projects that are to become a part of the utility or enterprise.
Bonds may be issued only for purposes specifically authorized by the Act.
No bonds may be issued under the Act without the approval of the Local Government Commission. The criteria for approval have been summarized in the description of the powers of the Commission in Appendix B to this Official Statement.
The Act provides that, subject to certain exceptions, no bond order may be adopted by the governing body of a unit of local government unless it appears from a sworn statement of debt filed in connection therewith that the net debt of the unit does not exceed 8% of the assessed value of property subject to taxation by the issuing unit. Under current law, the mandated assessment ratio is 100% of appraised value. This limitation does not apply to funding and refunding bonds, bonds issued for water, gas or electric power purposes, or two or more of such purposes, certain sanitary sewer, sewage disposal or sewage purification plant bonds, bonds or notes issued for erosion control purposes or bonds or notes issued for the purposes of erecting jetties or other protective works to prevent encroachment by certain bodies of water.
“Net debt” is defined as gross debt less certain statutory exclusions and deductions. Gross debt, excluding therefrom debt incurred or to be incurred in anticipation of tax or other revenue collections or in anticipation of the sale of bonds other than funding or refunding bonds, is the sum of (i) outstanding debt evidenced by bonds, (ii) bonds authorized by orders introduced but not yet adopted, (iii) unissued bonds authorized by adopted orders and (iv) outstanding debt not evidenced by bonds. From gross debt are deducted (a) funding and refunding bonds (both those authorized by orders introduced but not yet adopted and those authorized but not yet issued), (b) the amount of money held in sinking funds or otherwise for the payment of any part of the principal of gross debt other than debt incurred for the purposes set forth in clause (e) below, (e) the amount of bonded debt included in gross debt and incurred, or to be incurred, for water, gas or electric light or power purposes, or two or more of such purposes, and certain bonded debt for sanitary sewer purposes, and (d) the amount of uncollected special assessments theretofore levied or estimated to be levied for local improvements for which any part of the gross debt (that is not otherwise deducted) was or is to be incurred, to the extent that the special assessments, when collected, will be applied to the payment of any part of the gross debt. Revenue bond indebtedness is not included in, nor deducted from, gross debt.
Bonds may be issued under an approved bond order at any time within seven years after the bond order takes effect. The effective date of the bond order is the date of formal passage of the bond order in the case of bonds that do not require voter approval and the date of voter approval in all other cases. If the issuance of bonds is prevented or prohibited by any order of any court or certain litigation, the period of time is extended by the length of time elapsing between the date of institution of the action or litigation and the date of its final disposition. The General Assembly may, prior to the expiration of the maximum
C-3 period, also extend such period. In addition, such period may be extended from seven to ten years by the governing body of a unit of local government under certain circumstances with approval by the Commission. In any such case, no further voter approval is required.
The Commission has by regulation established the maximum useful lives of capital projects that may be financed by bonds. The maturity dates of any bonds issued for any project may not exceed the maximum useful life of the project, measured from the date of the bonds.
All bonds must mature in annual installments, the first of which must be payable not more than three years after the date of the bonds and the last of which must be payable within the maximum useful life of the project. Payment of an installment of principal may be provided for by the maturity of a bond, mandatory redemption of principal prior to maturity, a sinking fund, a credit facility or any other means satisfactory to the Commission. In addition, the Act prohibits “balloon installments” in that it requires that no installment of any issue may be greater than four times as large in amount as the smallest prior installment of the same issue. Bonds authorized by two or more bond orders may be consolidated into a single issue, and bonds of each issue may be issued from time to time in series with different provisions for each series. Each series is deemed a separate issue for the purposes of the limitations discussed in this paragraph. Bonds may be made payable from time to time on demand or tender for purchase as provided in the Act, and bonds may be made subject to redemption prior to maturity, with or without premium. The requirement that the bonds must mature in annual installments and the prohibition against balloon installments as described above does not apply to (a) refunding bonds, (b) bonds purchased by a State or federal agency or (c) bonds the interest on which is or may be includable in gross income for purposes of federal income tax, provided that the dates on which such bonds are stated to mature are approved by the Commission and the Commission may require that payment of all or any part of the principal of and interest and any premium on such bond be provided for by mandatory sinking fund redemption.
Short-Term Obligations
Bond Anticipation Notes - Units of local government are authorized to issue short term notes in anticipation of the sale of bonds validly authorized for issuance within the maximum authorized amount of the bonds. General obligation bond anticipation notes must be payable not later than seven years after the effective date of the bond order and shall not be renewed or extended beyond that time unless the period of time within which the bonds may be issued has been extended as mentioned above. The faith and credit of the issuing unit are pledged for the payment of general obligation bond anticipation notes, and the power and obligation of the issuing unit to levy taxes and raise other revenues for the prompt payment of such notes is unrestricted as to rate or amount. The proceeds of each general obligation bond issue are also pledged for the payment of any notes issued in anticipation of the sale thereof, and any such notes shall be retired from the proceeds of the bonds as a first priority.
C-4 Tax Anticipation Notes - Units of local government having the power to levy taxes are authorized to borrow money for the purpose of paying appropriations made for the current fiscal year in anticipation of the collection of taxes due and payable within the current fiscal year, and to issue negotiable notes in evidence thereof. Any tax anticipation note must mature not later than 30 days after the close of the fiscal year in which it is issued and may not be renewed beyond that time. No tax anticipation note shall be issued by the unit of local government if the amount thereof, together with the amount of all authorized or outstanding tax anticipation notes on the date the note is authorized, would exceed 50% of the amount of taxes uncollected as of the date of the proposed note authorization. The faith and credit of the issuing unit are pledged for the payment of tax anticipation notes, and the power and obligation of the issuing unit to levy taxes and raise other revenues for the prompt payment of such notes is unrestricted as to rate or amount.
Revenue Anticipation Notes - Units of local government are authorized to borrow money for the purpose of paying appropriations made for the current fiscal year in anticipation of the receipt of the revenues, other than taxes, estimated in their budgets to be realized in cash during such fiscal year, and to issue negotiable notes in evidence thereof. Any revenue anticipation note must mature not later than 30 days after the close of the fiscal year in which it is issued and may not be renewed beyond that time. No revenue anticipation note shall be issued if the amount thereof, together with the amount of all revenue anticipation notes authorized or outstanding on the date the note is authorized, would exceed 80% of the revenues of the issuing unit, other than taxes, estimated in its budget to be realized in cash during such fiscal year. Revenue anticipation notes are special obligations of the issuing unit, and neither the credit nor the taxing power of the issuing unit may be pledged for the payment of revenue anticipation notes.
Grant Anticipation Notes - Units of local government are authorized to borrow money for the purpose of paying appropriations made for capital projects in anticipation of the receipt of moneys from grant commitments for such capital projects from the State or the United States or any agencies of either, and to issue negotiable notes in evidence thereof. Grant anticipation notes must mature not later than 12 months after the estimated completion date of such capital project and may be renewed from time to time, but no such renewal shall mature later than 12 months after the estimated completion date of such capital project. No grant anticipation note may be issued if the amount thereof, together with the amount of all other notes authorized or issued in anticipation of the same grant commitment, exceeds 90% of the unpaid amount of said grant commitment. Grant anticipation notes are special obligations of the issuing unit, and neither the credit nor the taxing power of the issuing unit may be pledged for the payment of grant anticipation notes.
The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act
The Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act, G.S. Ch. 159, Art. 3 (the “Fiscal Control Act”), sets forth procedures for the adoption and administration of budgets of units of local government. The Fiscal Control Act also prescribes certain accounting and auditing requirements. The Fiscal Control Act attempts to achieve close conformity with the accounting principles contained in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Industry Audit Guide, Audits of State and Local Government Units.
C-5 Budget - The Fiscal Control Act requires the adoption of an annual balanced budget, which includes all appropriations required for debt service and for eliminating any deficit. Any deficit is required to be eliminated by the imposition of a property tax at a rate which will produce the revenue necessary to balance revenues and appropriations in the budget. The Secretary of the Commission is required to notify each local government unit by May 1 of each year of its debt service obligations for the coming fiscal year, including sums to be paid into sinking funds. At least 30 days prior to the due date of each installment of principal or interest on outstanding debt, the Secretary must notify each unit of the payment due, the due date, the place which the payments should be sent, and a summary of the legal penalties for failing to meet debt service obligations.
The Fiscal Control Act directs that the budget ordinance be adopted by the governing board of the unit of local government by July 1 of the fiscal year to which it applies. There is no penalty for failure to meet this deadline. The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends the following June 30. The governing board is required to hold a public hearing concerning the budget prior to its adoption. A project ordinance authorizing all appropriations necessary for the completion of a capital project or a grant project may be adopted in lieu of annual appropriations for each project and need not be readopted in any subsequent fiscal year.
Fiscal Control - The Fiscal Control Act sets forth certain fiscal control requirements concerning the duties of the finance officer; the system of accounting; budgetary accounting for appropriations; investment of idle funds; semiannual reports of financial information to the Commission; and an annual independent audit.
Except as otherwise provided by regulation of the Commission, the Fiscal Control Act requires a unit of local government to use the modified accrual basis of accounting in recording transactions. The Commission is empowered to prescribe regulations as to (a) features of accounting systems; (b) bases of accounting, including identifying in detail the characteristics of a modified accrual basis, identifying what revenues are susceptible to accrual, and permitting or requiring the use of a basis other than modified accrual in a fund that does not account for the receipt of a tax; and (c) definitions of terms not clearly defined in the Fiscal Control Act.
The Fiscal Control Act requires each unit of local government to have its accounts audited annually by an independent certified public accountant or by an independent accountant certified by the Commission as qualified to audit local government accounts. The audit must be conducted pursuant to a written contract containing the form, terms and fees for the audit. The Secretary of the Commission must approve this contract before the audit may begin and must approve invoices for the audit fee. Approval of final payment is not given until the audit report is rendered in accordance with the requirements of the contract. All audits are to be performed in conformity with generally accepted auditing standards.
C-6 Major General Fund Revenue Sources
Ad Valorem Tax - Each unit of local government having authority to incur general obligation bonded indebtedness also has authority to levy ad valorem taxes on property having a situs within the unit. The ad valorem tax is levied on classes of property selected for taxation by the General Assembly through laws that are uniform throughout the State. The statute governing the listing, appraisal and assessment of property for taxation and the collection of taxes levied is the Machinery Act, G.S. Ch. 105, Subchapter II.
Tax Base - The basic class of property selected for taxation comprises all real and tangible personal property. Thus, unless a class of property is specifically excluded from the property tax base, exempted from taxation or specifically accorded some kind of preferential tax treatment, it must be taxed by each unit of local government exercising its authority to levy property taxes. Several classes of property have been selected for exclusion from the property tax base, exemption from taxation or taxation at reduced valuation or for special appraisal standards. The most significant of these classes are:
(1) Tangible household personal property is excluded from the property tax base.
(2) Stocks and bonds, accounts receivable and certain other types of intangible personal property are excluded from the property tax base.
(3) Property belonging to certain qualified owners and used wholly and exclusively for religious, educational, charitable, cultural, fraternal or civic purposes is wholly exempted from taxation. Property belonging to the United States, the State and units of local government is also exempt from taxation.
(4) Real and personal property owned by certain nonprofit homes for the aged, sick or infirm are excluded from property taxation, provided such homes are exempt from the State income tax.
(5) Certain kinds of tangible personal property held for business purposes are excluded from taxation, the most important of which are:
(a) Manufacturers’ inventories (raw materials, goods in process, finished goods, materials or supplies consumed in processing, crops, livestock, poultry, feed used in production of livestock and poultry, and other agricultural or horticultural products held for sale) and inventories of retail and wholesale merchants (tangible personal property held for sale and not manufactured, processed or produced by the merchant).
(b) Property imported through a North Carolina seaport terminal and stored at such terminal for less than 12 months awaiting further shipment.
(c) Certain pollution abatement and resource recovery equipment.
C-7 (d) “Bill and hold” goods manufactured in North Carolina and held by the manufacturer for shipment to a nonresident customer.
(e) Nuclear materials held for or in the process of manufacture or processing or held by the manufacturer for delivery.
(f) Motor vehicle frames that belong to nonresidents and enter the State temporarily for the purpose of having a body mounted thereon.
(6) A homestead exemption of the greater of $25,000 or 50% of the appraised value of the residence is allowed if the property owner is a North Carolina resident, has income for the preceding calendar year of not more than the eligibility limit, and is at least 65 years of age or totally and permanently disabled.
(7) Certain agricultural, horticultural and forest land is eligible for taxation at its value for agricultural, horticultural or forest use.
Appraisal Standard - All property must be appraised at its true value in money, except agricultural, horticultural and forest land eligible for appraisal at its present-use value. Property must be assessed for taxation at 100% of its appraised value.
Frequency of Appraisal - Real property must be appraised at least once in every eight years. The requirement of octennial real property revaluations has been enforced since 1965, and no taxing unit has been permitted to postpone a scheduled revaluation since that time. Many units revalue real property more frequently than every eight years. Personal property is appraised annually.
Tax Day - All real and tangible personal property (other than most motor vehicles) subject to ad valorem taxation must be listed for taxation as of January 1 each year. Motor vehicles, with certain exceptions, must be listed annually in the name of the record owner on the day on which the current vehicle registration is renewed or the day on which the application is submitted for a new vehicle registration.
Tax Levy - Property taxes are levied in conjunction with the adoption of a budget which covers a July 1 to June 30 fiscal year. The property tax levy must be sufficient to raise during the fiscal year a sum of money equal to the difference between total appropriations and the total estimated receipts of all other revenues. In estimating the percentage of the levy that will be collected during the fiscal year, the taxing unit is prohibited from estimating a greater collection percentage than that of the prior fiscal year.
The tax rate may not exceed $1.50 per $100 assessed valuation unless the voters approve a higher rate. Tax levies by counties for the following purposes are not counted against the rate limit: courts, debt service, deficits, elections, jails, schools, mandated social services programs and joint undertakings with any other taxing unit with respect to any of these. Tax levies by cities for the following purposes are not counted against the rate limit: debt service, deficits and civil disorders.
C-8 Tax Collection - The taxing unit has a lien by operation of law on all real property within its jurisdiction that attaches as of January 1 for all taxes levied for the fiscal year beginning on the following July 1. Taxes levied on a parcel of real property are a lien on that parcel but not on other real property owned by the taxpayer. Taxes levied on personal property are a lien on all real property owned by the taxpayer within the taxing unit. The tax lien enjoys absolute priority against all other liens and claims whatsoever except, in limited circumstances, federal tax liens and certain other prior liens and perfected security interests.
Except for motor vehicles, taxes fall due on September 1 following the date of levy and are payable at par until January 6. For the period January 6 to February 1, interest accrues at the rate of 2%, and for the period February 1 until the principal amount of the taxes, the accrued interest, and any penalties are paid, interest accrues at the rate of 3/4% per month or fraction thereof. Each taxing unit may enforce collection of its tax levy by (a) foreclosure of the lien on real property, (b) levy and sale of tangible personal property and
(c) garnishment and attachment of intangible personal property. There is no right of redemption of real property sold in a tax foreclosure action.
Discounts for early payment of property taxes are allowed by some taxing units. To allow such discounts, the unit must adopt a discount schedule which must then be approved by the Ad Valorem Tax Division of the Department of Revenue.
No taxing unit has authority to release or refund any valid tax claim. The members of any governing board voting to make an unlawful release or refund of property taxes are personally liable for the amount unlawfully released or refunded.
The Commission periodically publishes statistics on the percentage of property tax levies collected before the close of the fiscal year for which levied. These statistics are available upon request.
Although the State has not levied a general property tax in more than forty years, it does continue general oversight of property tax administration by units of local government through the Ad Valorem Tax Division of the Department of Revenue. The Division has three main functions: (1) it appraises the property of electric power, gas, telephone and telegraph companies, the rolling stock of bus companies and motor freight carriers and the flight equipment of airlines; (2) it oversees local property tax administration; and (3) it provides staff assistance to the Property Tax Commission, an administrative appellate agency hearing listing and valuation appeals from local taxing units.
Local Government Sales and Use Taxes
The one percent local sales and use tax authorized by the Local Government Sales and Use Tax Act is levied by 99 of the 100 counties of the State (Mecklenburg County levies a virtually identical tax under a 1967 local act). The local sales tax base is the same as the State general sales tax base excluding exempt food sales, except that for goods sold to out- of-county purchasers for delivery out-of-county and sales of certain utility services. The situs of a transaction is the location of the retailer’s place of business. Sales of tangible
C-9 personal property delivered to out-of-county purchasers will be subject to sales tax in the county in which the retailer’s place of business is located and will not be subject to the use tax of the destination county. The tax is collected by the State on behalf of local government, and the net proceeds, after deduction of the cost of collection and administration, are returned to the county of collection. The county governing board selects one of two formulas for allocation of the tax among the county and the municipalities therein. One formula calls for allocation on the basis of population and the other on the basis of ad valorem tax levy.
Counties are also authorized under the Supplemental Local Government Sales and Use Tax Act to levy a one-half percent sales tax. This sales tax is collected by the State, allocated to counties on a per capita basis and divided among each county and the municipalities located therein in accordance with the method by which the one percent sales and use taxes are distributed. An adjustment factor is applied to the per capita allocation for each county. All 100 counties levy this one-half percent supplemental sales tax.
Counties are also authorized under the Additional Supplemental Local Government Sales and Use Tax Act to levy an additional one-half percent sales tax. This additional supplemental sales tax is collected and distributed based on a point-of-origin allocation. During the first 16 fiscal years in which this tax is in effect, 60% of the revenue derived by counties from this tax is required to be used for public school capital outlay purposes or to retire any indebtedness incurred by the county for these purposes during the period beginning five years prior to the date the taxes took effect. Counties may be relieved of the percentage restriction if it can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Local Government Commission that it is able to meet the aforementioned capital outlay needs without resorting to proceeds of such tax. All 100 counties levy this additional supplemental one-- half percent sales tax.
Alcoholic Beverage Control Store Profits
The sale of liquor in the State is a government monopoly. Stores are operated by counties and municipalities that have been authorized and have chosen to establish them. The net profits of these stores are distributed to the units of local government in which they operate. The General Assembly has enacted numerous local acts prescribing different formulas for the distribution of profits. Local elections are authorized to permit sales of liquor by the drink by qualified restaurants and clubs. An additional tax of $20 per four liters is levied on liquor purchased by restaurants or clubs for resale as mixed beverages, and $10 of the $20 is paid to the State’s General Fund.
Intragovernmental Shared Revenues
The net amount of excise taxes collected by the State on beer, fortified and unfortified wine is shared with counties and municipalities in which the sale of these beverages is lawful. Counties and municipalities where beer and wine are sold receive on a per capita basis an annual distribution equal to the following percentages of the net amount of excise taxes collected on the sale of beer and wine during the 12-month period ending March 31 each year: 20.47 percent of malt beverage tax revenue, 49.44 percent of unfortified wine tax revenue and 18 percent of fortified wine tax revenue. A municipality C-10 or a county is eligible to share in both beer and wine excise tax revenues if beer and wine may legally be sold within its boundaries. If only one beverage may be sold at retail in a municipality located in a county in which the sale of such beverage is otherwise prohibited, only the municipality receives a portion of the amount distributed.
The State levies a tax on the gross receipts derived from the sale of electricity at the combined general rate prescribed by statute. The State distributes 44 percent of the net proceeds of such tax to municipalities, less certain administration costs. Each municipalities’ share is calculated pursuant to a formula provided by statute.
The State levies a sales tax on the gross receipts derived from providing telecommunications and ancillary services at the statutorily prescribed combined general rate. Each quarter, the State distributes to municipalities 18.7 percent of the net proceeds from that quarter, minus $2,620,948.
The State levies a tax on the gross receipts derived from the sale of piped natural gas at the combined general rate. The State distributes quarterly 20 percent of the net proceeds of such tax to municipalities, less certain administration costs. Each municipalities’ share is calculated pursuant to a formula provided by statute, with certain “gas cities” eligible for an increase to their shares provided that certain requirements are met.
All cities and counties receive shares of three State sales taxes on video programming service and telecommunications service revenues pursuant to a formula provided by statute. The revenue to be distributed includes 7.7 percent of the net proceeds of taxes collected on telecommunications and ancillary services, 23.6 percent of the net proceeds of taxes collected on video programming services (other than direct-to-home satellite service), and 37.1 percent of the net proceeds of taxes collected on direct-to-home satellite services. Before the distribution of such net proceeds is made, certain cities or counties may receive supplemental public, educational or governmental access channel (“PEG Channel”) support funds from such net proceeds, provided that certain requirements are met.
State and Local Fiscal Relations
The State finances from State revenues (primarily individual income taxes, corporate income taxes and sales taxes) several governmental programs that are largely financed from local revenues in other states, thus decreasing reliance on local property taxes for these purposes. The major programs of this nature are as follows:
Public Schools and Community Colleges -- The State provides approximately 70% of the funds required for current operating costs of the public school and community college systems, while county government finances the greater portion of the capital costs of these systems. North Carolina school administrative units do not have independent tax-levying authority. The local share of the costs of the public school and community college systems are raised primarily by county government from its general revenues including the local sales tax revenue.
Court System -- The State finances virtually all of the current operating costs of the General Court of Justice. County government is required to provide courthouses, certain jails and related judicial facilities. C-11 Correctional System -- The State finances all of the cost of correctional facilities used for confinement of convicted felons and long--term (more than 30 days) misdemeanants. Counties and some municipalities furnish jails for short--term misdemeanants and prisoners awaiting trial.
Highway System -- The State finances the entire cost of public roads and highways outside the corporate limits of cities and towns. Counties may voluntarily participate in improvements to public roads and highways. Within cities and towns, the State finances the cost of major thoroughfares and streets connecting elements of the State highway system. Cities share responsibility with the State for State-maintained roads inside city limits and take full responsibility for the remaining public streets within city limits.
C-12 APPENDIX D Management Discussion and Analysis
The following is Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the financial activities of the City, lifted from the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for City of Greensboro for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017. Management’s Discussion and Analysis provides an objective and easily readable short and long-term analysis of the City’s financial activities based on currently known facts, decisions, or conditions. Management’s Discussion and Analysis is not a required part of the basic financial statements but is supplementary information required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. The independent auditors of the City have applied certain limited procedures, which consist primarily of inquiries of management regarding the methods of measurement and presentation of the required supplementary information. However, they did not audit this information and did not express an opinion on it.
D-1 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
As management of the City of Greensboro, we offer readers of our financial statements this narrative overview and analysis of the financial activities of the City of Greensboro for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017. The Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) section is designed to assist the reader in focusing on significant financial issues, provide an overview of the City’s financial activity, identify changes in the City’s financial condition, identify material deviations from the financial budget, and identify individual fund issues or concerns.
Since the MD&A is structured to focus on the current year’s activities, resulting changes and currently known facts, we encourage readers to consider the information presented here in conjunction with the transmittal letter, which can be found beginning on page I of this report, and the City’s financial statements, which follow this section.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The assets and deferred outflows of the City of Greensboro exceeded its liabilities and deferred inflows at the close of the fiscal year by $1.064 billion (net position).
The City’s net position increased by $42.5 million (4.2%) compared to FY 2016, restated. The prior year net position includes a prior period restatement reduction of $31.4 million due to implementation of Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 68, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Pensions, adding the Law Enforcement Officer Special Separation Allowance (LEOSSA) Pension Benefit Trust Fund. The governmental net position increased by $6.9 million (2.1%) and the business-type net position increased $35.6 million (5.1%) primarily due to increases in certain general revenues above plan, water rate increases effective July 1, 2016 and increased revenue from Coliseum events along with cost containments.
The governmental activities program revenue was higher than last year’s results by approximately $20 million at $78.6 million. Approximately $15 million of the difference can be attributed to the donation of LeBauer and Center City Parks, as well as an increase in the motor vehicle license fee from $10 to $30. General governmental revenues increased by $3.7 million (1.6%) and include increased property tax receipts, and higher local option sales tax receipts. The property tax rate remained the same as last year at $.6235 per $100 of assessed valuation. Base property values are projected to grow at 5.25% in FY 2018 due to a county-wide property revaluation conducted in January 2017. Sales tax receipts increased 5.9% or approximately $2.8 million due to improved economic conditions in the region. Investment earnings were the equivalent of 1.40 cents on the property tax rate compared to 1.36 cents last year. For budgeting purposes, management projects interest earnings to modestly increase for the near-term planning cycle for conservatism. In the City’s business-type activities, total revenues increased by about $7.7 million primarily due to higher event revenue in the War Memorial Coliseum Complex operation.
During the year, the City’s governmental expenses at the entity-wide level were $299 million, an increase of $8.4 million or 2.9% more than last year, primarily due to increased public safety, transportation and culture and recreation expenditures. In all, expenses increased $17.5 million or 4% citywide with approximately $9.1 million of the increase affecting business-type fund activity, or 6.4%. Increased expenditures in the proprietary funds were primarily due to increased activity in the War Memorial Coliseum Fund.
D-2 Of the City’s various business-type service areas, water and sewer operations and the stormwater management program generated sufficient revenues in their programs to cover expenses. No significant new revenue sources were noted in FY 2017.
As of the close of the current fiscal year, the City’s governmental funds reported combined ending fund balances of $144.2 million, a net increase of approximately $15.5 million in comparison with the prior year restated fund balance. Approximately 59.2% of this total amount or $85.4 million is restricted or non-spendable and 40.8% or $58.8 million is Committed, Assigned or Unassigned, including $7.6 million appropriated for next year’s budget.
At the end of the current fiscal year, the total fund balance for the General Fund specifically was $69.6 million. Approximately 40.7% or $28.3 million of this balance is restricted for accounts receivable and encumbrances and $6.6 million is assigned for appropriation next year. It is also the City’s policy to hold aside 9% of the subsequent year’s General Fund budget as “unassigned” to remain available for working capital, but it may also be appropriated for emergencies. This amounted to $25.8 million as of June 30, 2017. Amounts remaining that are either non-spendable, committed or assigned for other purposes totaled approximately $8.9 million.
Charges for services for the City’s largest enterprise activity, the Water Resources Fund, comprising water and sewer operations increased $5.9 million or 5.6% in FY 2017. Rate increases of 4.5% for customers inside and outside the city limits were in effect as of July 1, 2016. The cost of the City’s water supply purchased from three neighboring municipalities in the current year was approximately $2.9 million compared to $2.7 million last year, and is budgeted at $3 million in FY 2018 for purchases from Reidsville, Winston-Salem, and Burlington. These interlocal arrangements will continue to be in place to keep the water lines “fresh” and to ensure additional supply in emergency or drought conditions. Current year contributions of $897,106 were made to the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority (“PTRWA”) for certain ongoing administration and operations associated with the Randleman Dam, which is fully operational. The City initially contributed $33,544,093 in FY 2008 to support PTRWA’s Water Treatment Plant project. This project is being funded by a group of local government units and will supplement Greensboro’s water supply needs for the long term. The City’s total water rights in the Randleman Dam project, recorded as an Intangible Asset, are approximately $77 million, net of $12.1 million in amortization, as of June 30, 2017. Amortization of the water rights is calculated over a 50 year period. The City began receiving water from the PTRWA in October 2010, culminating a 20-year project that will ensure the City’s long-term water supply. Water purchases totaling $2.7 million were paid to the PTRWA in Fiscal Year 2017 and are budgeted at $2.6 million in FY 2018. At June 30, 2017 Revenue Bond debt service coverage was 2.48 times, exceeding the targeted goal of 2.0 times coverage.
Certain deficit fund balances were reported in the State and Federal Grants Fund ($1,216,348), Parks and Recreation Bond Fund – Series 2010 ($411,608), Street Improvement Bond Fund – Series 2010 ($4,558,257), and the Parks and Recreation Bond Fund – Series 2016 ($772,020), respectively, as of the end of the fiscal year. These deficits will be funded with federal and state grant reimbursements in FY 2018 and future issuance of General Obligation Bonds.
The General Fund budget for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017 was adopted with a $.5856 per $100 assessed valuation property tax rate, reduced by $.0016 from June 30, 2016. Overall, the total FY 2017 general levy tax rate remained the same as the prior year at $.6325 and includes $.0069 for housing initiatives, $.0050 for economic development purposes and $.0350 (up from $.0334 the prior year) for public transit. Two special historic district taxes and a downtown business district tax for certain additional improvements are also taxed as “special district” rates.
D-3 As of June 30, 2017, the City had collected approximately $267.9 million or 99.5% of its amended budgeted General Fund revenues and had incurred $269.1 million or 94.1% of its amended budgeted expenditures. The net effect on General Fund fund balance was a decrease of approximately $1.2 million this year.
The City contributed $500,000 to the OPEB Trust Fund in FY 2017, and the overall OPEB liability increased from $6.8 million to $11.3 million. In FY 2017, the City contributed 53.1% of the actuarial required contribution (“ARC”) and has budgeted $2.8 million of the $11.8 million ARC for FY 2018. In FY 2016, higher than projected employee health-related costs prevented additional advance OPEB payments to be made. The projected accrued OPEB actuarial liability for Greensboro retirees is $108 million, with 14.1%, or more than $15 million funded as of June 30, 2017.
The State of North Carolina’s pension system, a multi-employer defined benefit plan in which the City participates, had an overall net pension liability as of June 30, 2017. The City’s total prorata share was $54,381,226 as reflected in the Statement of Net Position.
The City’s LEOSSA Pension Benefit Trust had a net pension liability of $25,009,255 at June 30, 2017, as reflected in the Statement of Net Position
In FY 2017 the City spent $19.5 million and $12.8 million for federal and state-funded grant programs, respectively, compared to $24.7 million in federal and $9.5 million in state funding last year. Certain ARRA programs are nearing completion.
Key Ratios
2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 $ Bonded Debt Per Capita $631 $563 $563 $587 $600
Legal Debt Margin as a % of Debt Limit 76.90% 83.47% 81.64% 80.83% 80.75%
% of Property Tax Levy Collected 99.35% 99.28% 99.17% 98.55% 97.66%
% Increase (Decrease) in Assessed Property Valuation 1.6% 1.6% (0.6%) 3.1% 0.8%
Guilford County property tax revaluation occurs every five years. The most recent revaluation occurred in 2017, effective in FY 2018, noting a gain in the property base of approximately 5.1% above FY 2017 values.
The City’s net governmental general obligation bonded debt increased by $20.4 million following the scheduled annual debt service payments and increased borrowing under the General Obligation 2016 Bond Anticipation Note; increasing the debt per capita to $631. In FY 2017, the City issued approximately $62.6 million of General Obligation Bonds, refunding the General Obligation 2014 Bond Anticipation Note and portions of the Series 2006A and 2008A General Obligation Bonds. Interest rates on the City’s variable rate debt were 0.80% and 1.13% for tax-exempt and taxable general obligation bonds, respectively, and 0.80% for tax-exempt revenue bonds at June 30, 2017.
D-4 It is the City’s policy to maintain 25% or less in variable rate general debt outstanding to help partially offset lower interest earnings in recent years.
The City of Greensboro maintained its AAA general obligation credit rating from Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings along with its Aaa rating from Moody’s Investors Service.
Standard and Poor’s (S&P) General Obligation Bonds Currently AAA Target AAA Certificates of Participation Currently AA+ Target AA+ Enterprise System Revenue Bonds Currently AAA Target AAA Limited Obligation Bonds Currently AA+ Target AA+
Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) General Obligation Bonds Currently Aaa Target Aaa Certificates of Participation Currently Aa2 Target Aa1 Enterprise System Revenue Bonds Currently Aa1 Target Aaa Limited Obligation Bonds Currently Aa2 Target Aa1
Fitch Ratings (Fitch) General Obligation Bonds Currently AAA Target AAA Certificates of Participation Currently AA+ Target AA+ Enterprise System Revenue Bonds Currently AAA Target AAA Limited Obligation Bonds Currently AA+ Target AA+
OVERVIEW OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This discussion and analysis are intended to serve as an introduction to the City of Greensboro’s basic financial statements. The financial statements include two kinds of statements that present different views of the City: 1) Government-Wide Financial Statements and 2) Fund Financial Statements. Both perspectives, however, are essential and complementary components that allow the user to address relevant questions, broaden a basis for comparison, and enhance the City’s accountability. Another element of the basic financial statements is the notes to the financial statements. In addition to the basic financial statements, this report contains other supplemental information that will enhance the reader’s understanding of the financial condition of the City of Greensboro. (See Figure 1)
D-5 Required Components of Annual Financial Report
Figure 1
Management’s Basic Discussion and Financial Analysis Statements
Government- Notes to Wide Fund the Financial Financial Financial
Statements Statements Statements
Summary Detail
A. Government-Wide Financial Statements
The government-wide statements report both short-term and long-term information about the financial condition of the City as a whole, focusing on the government’s operational accountability. The accounting methods of these statements reflect that of private sector companies in that all governmental and business-type activities are consolidated into columns that add to a total for the primary government. The statement of net position reports the City’s net position and includes all, both current and non-current, assets and liabilities of the government. The difference between the two is reported as net position. Over time, increases or decreases in the City’s net position are one indicator of whether its financial health is improving or deteriorating. You will also need to consider other non-financial factors, such as changes in the City’s property tax base, local economy and service levels, to assess the overall health of the City. On the other hand, the statement of activities reports how net position has changed and includes all of the current year’s revenues and expenses regardless of when cash is received or paid.
The government-wide financial statements of the City are divided into three categories:
Governmental Activities - Most of the City’s basic services are included here, such as police, fire, transportation, environmental services, libraries, planning, neighborhood development, public improvements, parks and recreation and general administration. Property taxes along with sales and certain state-shared taxes and state and federal grants finance most of these activities.
Business-Type Activities - The City charges fees to customers to help cover the costs of certain services it provides. The City’s water and sewer system and other stormwater resources, parking facilities, solid waste facilities and coliseum activities are included here.
D-6 Component Units - The City includes four other discretely presented component entities in its report—Greensboro Housing Development Partnership, Inc., the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC), the Greensboro Transit Authority, and the Redevelopment Commission of Greensboro. The activities of Greensboro Center City Corporation are blended with those of the City. Although legally separate, these “component units” are important because of certain financial transactions that exist between the entities and the City and from extensive board member appointments by City officials.
The government-wide financial statements can be found on pages 3-6 of this report.
B. Fund Financial Statements
The fund financial statements provide more detailed information about the City’s major funds while focusing on fiscal accountability. Funds are accounting devices that the City uses to keep track of specific sources of funding and spending for particular purposes, as required by state law and bond covenants. City Council establishes many funds to assure control as well as good management and to exhibit proper usage of certain taxes and grants. The City of Greensboro, like all other governmental entities in North Carolina, also uses fund accounting to ensure and reflect compliance (or non- compliance) with finance-related legal requirements, such as the General Statutes or City ordinances.
The City has three types of funds:
Governmental Funds - Most of the City’s basic services are included in governmental funds, which focus on 1) how cash and other financial assets can readily be converted to cash flow in and out (that is, their liquidity) and 2) the balances left at year-end that are available for spending. This is the manner in which the financial budget is typically developed. Because this information provides a short-term view that helps determine whether there are more or fewer financial resources that can be spent in the near future to finance the City’s programs, as opposed to the government-wide statements which provides both a short and a long-term focus, a reconciliation is provided on the page following the fund statements that explains the relationship or differences between the two views.
The governmental fund financial statements can be found on pages 7-19 of this report.
Proprietary Funds - Services for which the City charges customers a fee are generally reported in proprietary funds. Accounted for like the government-wide statements, proprietary funds provide both long and short-term financial information and in addition include the statement of cash flows. A reconciliation statement is once more provided following these funds to explain the differences between them. The Internal Service Funds are an accounting device used to accumulate and allocate costs internally among the City’s various functions. Because these services predominantly benefit governmental rather than business-type functions, they have been included within governmental activities in the government-wide statements. Individual fund data for the Internal Service Funds is provided in the form of combining statements located on pages 143-149.
The proprietary fund financial statements can be found on pages 20-31 of this report.
Fiduciary Funds - The City is the trustee, or fiduciary, for its LEOSSA Pension Trust, with all assets held and administered in a trust account with the State Treasurer. In addition, the Other Post- Employment (OPEB) Trust Fund was established as an irrevocable trust in FY 2009. The City is responsible for ensuring that the assets reported in these funds are used only for their intended purposes. All of the City’s fiduciary activities are reported in a separate statement of fiduciary net position and a statement of changes in fiduciary net position. We exclude these activities from the
D-7 government-wide financial statements because the City cannot use these assets to finance its operations. The basic fiduciary fund financial statements can be found on pages 33-34 of this report.
C. Notes to the Financial Statements
The notes provide additional information that is essential to a full understanding of the data provided in the government-wide and fund financial statements. The notes to the financial statements can be found starting on page 38a of this report.
D. Required Supplementary Information
In addition to the basic financial statements and accompanying notes, this report also presents certain required supplementary information concerning the City of Greensboro’s progress in funding its obligation to provide pension benefits and other post-employment benefits other than pensions to certain of its retirees. Required supplementary information can be found on pages 39-46 of this report.
E. Other Supplementary Information
The combining statements referred to earlier in connection with nonmajor governmental funds and Internal Service Funds are presented immediately following the required supplementary information on pensions and other post-employment benefits. Combining and individual fund statements and schedules can be found starting on page 47 of this report.
GOVERNMENT-WIDE FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Net position may serve over time as a useful indicator of a government’s financial position. In the case of the City of Greensboro, assets and deferred outflows exceeded liabilities and deferred inflows by $1,064,109,026 at the close of June 30, 2017 compared to $1,053,041,228 before restatement in the previous year. The net position for the City as a whole increased 1.1% at June 30, 2017 or net $11.1 million of which approximately $33.2 million of the gain is attributable to water resources activities, coliseum events, and approximately $15 million from the donation of Lebauer Park and Center City Park, offset by a restatement due to the implementation of GASB standards for setup of a new Pension Trust Fund.
The largest portion of the City of Greensboro’s net position $815,199,471 (76.6%) represents its investment in capital assets (e.g. land, building, machinery, and equipment) less any related debt used to acquire those assets that are still outstanding. The resources needed to repay the debt must be provided from sources other than capital assets, since they cannot be used to liquidate the liabilities.
An additional portion of the City of Greensboro’s net position $169,124,743 (15.9%), represents resources that are subject to enabling legislation or external restrictions on how they may be used. Unrestricted net position, the residual amount of assets that can be used without constraints established by debt covenants, enabling legislation, or other legal requirements changed from $117,300,126 at June 30, 2016 to $79,784,812 (7.5%), down approximately $37.5 million at the end of this year, with the decrease largely attributable to the recording of obligations for other postemployment benefits, law enforcement pension benefits and increased pension obligations for general employees. The City’s overall unrestricted cash levels increased by approximately $3.1 million as well to approximately $212.6 million. However, it should be noted that of the total reported “unrestricted” amount, only approximately $25.8 million is
D-8 available and unobligated in the General Fund to provide working capital to finance day-to-day governmental activities and fund unforeseen circumstances in the future. Table A-1 City of Greensboro’s Net Position (In thousands of dollars)
Governmental Business-Type ActivitiesActivities Total % 2017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016 2016-2017 Current and Other Assets$ 233,346 $ 222,558 $ 196,118 $ 191,487 $ 429,464 $ 414,045 3.7% Capital Assets, Net 459,917 416,789 860,876 823,506 1,320,793 1,240,295 6.5% Total Assets 693,263 639,347 1,056,994 1,014,993 1,750,257 1,654,340 5.8%
Deferred Outflows of Resources 41,317 9,373 10,193 5,680 51,510 15,053 242.2%
Long-Term Debt Outstanding 263,155 217,804 275,866 270,236 539,021 488,040 10.4% Other Liabilities 132,281 65,211 61,989 56,144 194,270 121,355 60.1% Total Liabilities 395,436 283,015 337,855 326,380 733,291 609,395 20.3%
Deferred Inflows of Resources 3,830 5,870 $ 537 $ 1,087 4,367 6,957 -37.2%
Net Position $ 335,314 $ 359,835 $ 728,795 $ 693,206 $ 1,064,109 $ 1,053,041 1.1%
Net Investment in Capital Assets$ 227,077 $ 212,861 $ 588,123 $ 557,321 $ 815,200 $ 770,182 5.8% Restricted 91,364 92,784 77,760 72,775 169,124 165,559 2.2% Unrestricted 16,873 54,190 62,912 63,110 79,785 117,300 -32.0%
Total Net Position $ 335,314 $ 359,835 $ 728,795 $ 693,206 $ 1,064,109 $ 1,053,041 1.1%
For more detailed information, see the Statement of Net Position on pages 3-4.
D-9 Table A-2 City of Greensboro’s Changes in Net Position (In thousands of dollars) Go v ern men t al Business-Type Activities Activities Total 2017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016 Revenues: Program Revenues: Charges for Services$ 37,411 30,836$ 161,285$ 152,047$ 198,696$ 182,883$ Operating Grants and Contributions 22,573 23,858 22,573 23,858 Capital Grants and Contributions 18,648 3,938 7,538 4,387 26,186 8,325 General Revenues: Property Taxes 156,027 154,144 156,027 154,144 Other Taxes 79,304 76,923 79,304 76,923 Investment Income 1,446 2,437 833 1,963 2,279 4,400 Other 5,387 4,930 1,773 5,329 7,160 10,259 Total Revenues 320,796 297,066 171,429 163,726 492,225 460,792
Expens es : General Government 23,520 24,892 23,520 24,892 Public Safety 145,819 139,583 145,819 139,583 Transportation 23,854 22,713 23,854 22,713 Engineering and Building Maintenance 16,708 15,642 16,708 15,642 Field Operations 35,461 33,525 35,461 33,525 Environmental Services 141 660 141 660 Culture and Recreation 33,167 30,901 33,167 30,901 Neighborhood Development 5,632 8,722 5,632 8,722 Economic Opportunity 7,800 8,659 7,800 8,659 Interest, Fees on Long Term Debt 6,913 5,353 6,913 5,353 Water Resources 92,265 88,936 92,265 88,936 Stormwater Management 9,238 8,550 9,238 8,550 War Memorial Coliseum 32,619 26,209 32,619 26,209 Solid Waste Management 13,623 14,468 13,623 14,468 Parking Facilities 2,951 3,409 2,951 3,409 Total Expenses 299,015 290,650 150,696 141,572 449,711 432,222
Net, Before Transfers $ 21,781 6,416$ 20,733$ 22,154$ 42,514$ $ 28,570
D-10 Governmental Business-Type Activities Activities Total (Continued) 2017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016
Transfers$ (14,856) (3,650)$ 14,856$ $ 3,650 $ $
Change in Net Position 6,925 2,766 35,589 25,804 42,514 28,570
Beg. Net Position 359,835 356,660 693,206 667,402 1,053,041 1,024,062 Prior Period Restatement (31,446) 409 (31,446) 409 Restated 328,389 357,069 693,206 667,402 1,021,595 1,024,471
Net, Before Transfers $ 335,314 359,835$ 728,795$ $ 693,206 1,064,109$ $ 1,053,041
Table A-3 Summary of Financing/Interest Earnings - Governmental Activities (In thousands of dollars)
FY 2017 FY 2016 $ Change % Change Interest Revenue $1,446 $2,437 ($991) -40.7% Interest Expense 6,913 5,354 1,559 29.1%
Net ($5,467) ($2,917) ($2,550) -87.4%
Summary of Financing/Interest Earnings - Business Activities (In thousands of dollars)
FY 2017 FY 2016 $ Change % Change Interest Revenue $833 $1,963 ($1,130) -57.6% Interest Expense 4,251 4,102 149 3.6%
Net ($3,418) ($2,139) ($1,279) -59.8%
A. Governmental Activities
Governmental activities increased the City’s net position by approximately $6.9 million, up from an approximate $2.8 million increase last year. Contributing to the increase was the donation of LeBauer and Center City Parks to the City. The Internal Service Funds are combined with governmental activities at the entity-wide level.
D-11 FIGURE 2 Expenses and Program Revenues – Governmental (In thousands of dollars)
$150,000
Expenses $140,000
$130,000 Program Revenues $120,000 $110,000
$100,000
$90,000
$80,000
$70,000
$60,000
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
$0
s ce vi ation erations enance r e nt Se r l ec Government Op a R Public Safety evelopment pportunity Transportationeld nd O neral Fi ng Mai a e di nment re mic G il ro u ood D o i lt h u Env C bor Econ gh Nei
Engineering and Bu
D-12 Table A-4 Net Cost – Governmental Activities (In thousands of dollars)
Total Cost % Net Cost % of Services Change of Services Change 2017 2016 2017 2016 General Government $ 23,520 $ 24,892 -5.5%$ (12,961) $ (16,894) 23.3% Public Safety 145,819 139,583 4.5% (132,904) (129,273) -2.8% Transportation 23,854 22,713 5.0% (14,727) (16,942) 13.1% Engineering and Building Maintenance 16,708 15,642 6.8% (15,024) (12,781) -17.5% Field Operations 35,461 33,525 5.8% (21,496) (19,096) -12.6% Environmental Services 141 660 -78.6% 555 509 9.0% Culture and Recreation 33,167 30,901 7.3% (13,065) (26,120) 50.0% Neighborhood Development 5,632 8,722 -35.4% (1,374) (3,510) 60.9% Economic Opportunity 7,800 8,659 -9.9% (2,475) (2,557) 3.2% Total $ 292,102 $ 285,297 2.4%$ (213,471) $ (226,664) 5.8%
B. Business-Type Activities
Business-type activities increased the City of Greensboro’s net position by $35.6 million, largely attributable to net income generated in the City’s water and sewer utility, primarily from developer contributions of water and sewer lines, rate increases and continued cost containments compared to budget. The General Fund continued to support the Coliseum and solid waste operations; however, stormwater fees were sufficient to cover operations. Challenges are present in the business activities due to ongoing significant infrastructure and capital needs for the City’s utility and waste disposal issues relating to closure and post-closure care costs for certain of the City’s landfill facilities which are required to be closed, capped and monitored for a number of years.
1) Enterprise Funds
There are five separate and distinct operations accounted for in the Enterprise Funds: the Water Resources Utility Operations, Stormwater Management Services, War Memorial Coliseum Complex, Solid Waste Management and Parking Facilities (Other Non-Major Fund).
Depreciation is computed on all depreciable plant and equipment and is reflected as an operating expense. Depreciation expense also includes amortization of software and licenses and other intangible assets, such as water rights. The following schedule reflects the change in net position before and after depreciation/amortization for each of the enterprises compared to the preceding year.
D-13 Table B-1 Change in Net Position– Business-Type Activities (in thousands of dollars)
Change in Net Position Change in Net Position Before After Depreciation/ Depreciation/Amortization Amortization* Enterprise Activities 2017 2016 2017 2016 Water Resources $50,115 $47,716 $24,268 $24,258 Stormwater Management 3,346 2,404 1,518 625 War Memorial Coliseum 12,147 3,614 8,930 671 Solid Waste Management 1,523 1,630 1,013 1,078 Parking Facilities 320 (28) (192) (615) Total $67,451 $55,336 $35,537 $26,017
*Excludes the effect of Internal Service Fund chargebacks.
Major activities and/or changes in the Enterprise Fund operations are presented in the following comments.
2) Water Resources Fund Charges for current services totaled $110,486,306 compared to $104,611,382 for the preceding year, an increase of 5.6%. Operating expenses (excluding depreciation) increased by 1.7% and totaled $60,827,548 as compared to $59,835,012 for the preceding year. On July 1, 2016, water and sewer rates for average residential customers increased by 4.5% for customers inside the City and those residing outside the City limits, largely causing the improved revenue results. On July 1, 2017, water and sewer rates were increased again, up 3.25% for customers inside the City and 5.5% for those residing outside the City limits, expected to generate approximately $3.8 million in additional revenues in FY 2018, in keeping with debt service coverage covenant targets of 2.0x coverage. Actual debt service coverage has exceeded 2.0x coverage in each of the past ten years, with a current coverage of 2.48x as of June 30, 2017.
The City continues to make a significant investment in water resource needs to replace and expand existing infrastructure and to meet new environmental regulations. The Water and Sewer utility comprises approximately one-third of the City’s overall capital improvement plan, with estimated $599 million in planned capital expenditures over the next ten year period. Ongoing system improvements are expected and are included in our long-range planning, however, management projects that within the next five years, certain of the major improvements will be completed ($95 million nitrogen removal project, $63 million for the Osborne Wastewater Treatment Plant capacity upgrade and $97.6 million for a system wide Sanitary Sewer and Water Line Rehabilitation) and pay-go funding, which is expected to be a little less than 50%, should cover a large part of anticipated future costs. The City has also established a capital reserve account to provide for future needs of the water and sewer system, with an account balance of approximately $8.7 million available in the restricted assets total of the Water Resources Fund as of June 30, 2017. The Randleman Dam, Lake and Water Plant Project (managed by the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority, “PTRWA”) is designed to meet long-term future water needs. PTRWA constructed a 12.675 MGD Water Treatment Plant (expandable to 48 MGD) which began pumping treated water to Greensboro in early October 2010. Approximately $2.7 million was paid to PTRWA in FY2017 for current water purchases from this supply. Greensboro has acquired certain water rights in this project, along with five other governmental units. Due to
D-14 ongoing interlocal water purchase agreements with neighboring communities, conservation measures, the purchase of a small dam on the Haw River, along with approximately 7.8 million gallons of water per day available to be piped from Randleman, the City has been able to adequately manage its water supply with an annual average production capacity of 48 MGD.
3) Stormwater Management Fund Charges for current services totaled $9,686,669 as compared to $9,591,310 for the preceding year, a slight increase of 1%. Operating expenses (excluding depreciation) increased by 9.4% and totaled $7,409,503 as compared to $6,770,912, the increase is largely attributed to increased personnel and benefit expense and some increased operational expense. The stormwater program monitors and manages the quality and quantity of stormwater runoff and helps protect limited water resources throughout the City. Residential stormwater fees range from $1.50 to $3.90 based on the square footage of impervious property area owned and fund program operations as well as related capital improvement projects.
4) War Memorial Coliseum Fund Charges for current services totaled $23,582,188 as compared to $18,163,472 for the preceding year, an increase of 29.8%. The total number of events in FY 2016-17 increased from 905 to 933. The overall facility attendance increased from 1.1 million to 1.2 million in FY 2017; revenues increased due to large concert events yielding more admission revenue. The Greensboro arena has hosted eleven Men’s ACC Basketball Tournaments from 1995 to 2015, and Greensboro is scheduled to again host in 2020. Along with hosting the Women’s ACC Basketball Tournament from 2000 to 2016, the arena has hosted other NCAA Regional events. Greensboro is widely recognized as the “Tournament Town”. Operating expenses (excluding depreciation) totaled $29,144,279 as compared to $22,915,270 for the preceding year, an increase of 27.2%. The General Fund contributed $2,700,000 toward Coliseum activities this year, $200,000 more than the subsidy last year, mainly for operations. Revenues and expenses for a given year may fluctuate based on the nature of the associated event agreements.
5) Solid Waste Management Fund Charges for current services totaled $12,616,110 as compared to $13,391,867 for the preceding year, a decrease of 5.8%. Operating expenses (excluding depreciation) totaled $13,015,058 as compared to $13,781,455 for the preceding year, a decrease of 5.6% primarily due to reduced refuse transfer station expenses. The decrease in charges for current services is due to the landfill roadway project and the disposal of excavated materials in Phase III of the White Street Landfill that occurred last year. The City entered into a contract with an Apex, North Carolina firm to convert methane gas at the White Street landfill into electricity and to sell it to Duke Energy. This gas is in surplus of the amount that the City currently gives to International Textile Group (ITG) in support of their manufacturing operation and local jobs. Over the 15-year term of the contract, it is estimated that the City will receive approximately $155,000 on average each year for a total estimate of $2.33 million, while continuing to provide ITG with its current supply of the landfill gas. Closure activities of certain landfill cells are also currently in progress.
In October 2006, the City completed construction of a solid waste transfer station as an alternative to the White Street Landfill, at an estimated cost of $9 million. The City issued $8.4 million in special obligation bonds in November 2005 associated with this new facility, supported with a pledge of local sales tax revenue. In December 2009, $5.7 million of the remaining 1997 bonds (originally issued at $16 million for landfill expansion and improvements) were refunded. All bonds relating to the original 1997 landfill bond issue were retired as of FY 2012. Debt outstanding associated with the transfer station is $2,250,000 as of June 30, 2017. Debt service
D-15 coverage by the local sales tax revenue well exceeds the 2.00 times covenant requirement, currently at more than 24 times covered.
6) Parking Facilities Fund Charges for current services totaled $2,399,536 as compared to $2,380,774 in the preceding year, an increase of 0.8%. Operating expenses (excluding depreciation) totaled $2,328,034 as compared to $2,816,037 for the preceding year, a decrease of 17.3%, due to reduced elevator repair costs that were completed in FY 2016, and completion of the Union Square Campus parking lot early in the year. General Fund suspended support of this operation in FY 2010 following final maturity of all parking deck debt recorded in the Fund. In FY 2011 and forward, a portion of the profits from this operation are scheduled to be returned to the General Fund, however, no transfers were made in the current year due to the capital improvements made to parking facilities this year.
FIGURE 3 Expenses and Program Revenues – Business-Type (In thousands of dollars)
$60,000
Expenses
$50,000 Revenues
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
$0
t t s n n ie lit Water Sewer eme eme g g aci ana g F M in te ark as P W d li Stormwater Mana War Memorial ColiseumSo
D-16 Figure 4 Revenues by Sources – Business-Type Activities
94.1% Capital Grants and Contributions Charges for Current Services 4.4% Investment Income 1.0% (Loss) 0.5% Miscellaneous
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF THE CITY’S FUNDS
A. Governmental Funds
As noted earlier, the City uses fund accounting to ensure and demonstrate compliance with finance- related legal requirements. As of June 30, 2017, governmental funds reported a combined fund balance of $144.2 million, an increase of approximately $15.5 million or 12% of the FY 2016 restated amount. The General Fund net results decreased fund balance by $1.2 million, due to increased support for the Debt Service Fund and decreased receipts from certain utility sales taxes. Internal Service Funds are reported with the governmental activities in the Statement of Net Position. Overall operating expenditures (excluding debt service) have increased approximately $10.1 million or 3.6% primarily due to increased spending for public safety, transportation, and culture and recreation projects. Debt service expenditures at $19.4 million are up by approximately $600 thousand year to year. The current year transfers out exceeded transfers in by $22.7 million to support other operations including debt proceeds issued to support Coliseum capital improvements recorded in the War Memorial Coliseum enterprise fund. Fund balance of $85.4 million or 59.2% of the total amount is non-spendable or restricted to indicate that it is not available for spending due to GASB No. 54 classifications of (1) Non-Spendable which includes inventories, prepaid expenses, perpetual maintenance or assets held for resale 2) Restricted which includes amounts to liquidate contracts and purchase orders of the previous year, adherence to Stabilization for State Statute, amounts bound by debt covenants and third party grantor requirements. The adherence to State Statute limits the amount that may be appropriated by the governing board or for other restricted purposes. The remainder of fund balance represents amounts committed 5.8%, assigned 24.8% and unassigned 10.2% funds.
The General Fund is the chief operating fund of the City. At the end of the current fiscal year, total fund balance of the General Fund was $69.6 million. Of this amount, $1.2 million is non-spendable, $28.4 million is restricted, $6.6 million is assigned for appropriation in next year’s budget, $7.6 million is assigned for capital projects and $25.8 million or 9% of the subsequent years’ budget is unassigned and retained for working capital purposes as well as unforeseen emergencies. General Fund fund balance decreased by approximately $1.2 million primarily as a result of increased support to the debt service fund and certain decreased general revenues for utility sales tax.
D-17 The Debt Service Fund has a fund balance of $16.5 million, $5.6 million higher than last year, with a target level of $10 million. The fund covered debt service expenditures of approximately $17.2 million, amounting to approximately 6.7 cents of the general property tax rate. The total fund balance at June 30, 2017 is assigned for debt service in next year’s budget with the balance to be used to stabilize property tax rates from year to year, despite future increases in debt service amounts due to new voter-approved bonds, as well as to support the City’s fund balance goals.
Revenues for general governmental functions (General, Special Revenue, Capital Project and Debt Service Funds) amounted to $300,163,016 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017and are comprised of various sources as shown in the following graph:
Revenues by Sources – Governmental Activities
70.3% Taxes
Intergovernmental
Licenses and Permits
Fines and Forfeitures 1.5% Charges for Current Services 0.4% 8.1% 0.7% Investment Income 1.4% 17.5% Miscellaneous
Property tax collections, for the current City levy, including $8,340,451 for GTA, amounted to $169,227,159. The rate of collection as of the end of the fiscal year was 99.35% for the current year levy, with collections for levies in previous years approximating close to 100%. We expect the collection rate to remain at high levels due to the new statewide motor vehicle “Tax and Tag Together” system, implemented by North Carolina effective July 1, 2013. The State of North Carolina now collects property taxes on motor vehicles and remits to the City rather than collected by Guilford County under the old system.
The overall property tax rate remained the same in FY 2017 while the General Fund allocation was reduced by $.0016 with a corresponding increase to the Transit Fund allocation. The FY 2017 budget was adopted with $0.0069 directly recorded in the Housing Partnership Fund. This amount replaces the General Fund transfer to the housing fund that was budgeted in previous years and allows the Housing Partnership Fund to remain a Special Revenue Fund in accordance with GASB Statement No. 54. The FY 2017 budget also provides for $0.005 for economic development purposes and $.035 for public transit support. The resulting General Fund tax rate was 58.56 cents per $100 valuation in FY 2017.
D-18 Tax rates for the current and three preceding fiscal years were adopted, as follows, at the same overall rate, however, different allocations among purposes are noted:
2017 2016 2015 2014 General Fund $.5856 $.5872 $.5872 $.5872 Economic Develop. .0050 .0050 .0050 .0050 Housing Partnership .0069 .0069 .0069 .0069 Transit Authority .0350 .0334 .0334 .0334 Total Tax Rate $.6325 $.6325 $.6325 $.6325
The local option sales tax collection amounted to $50,242,614 as compared to the previous year's collection of $47,442,711, an increase of approximately $2.8 million or 5.9% from last year, however, we note a 21.5% gain in the ten year trend for this revenue source. Guilford County uses the “ad valorem” (property tax) method to distribute its allocated sales tax receipts to municipalities within the County and as a result, sales tax receipts for Greensboro may fluctuate from year to year, depending on the proportion of property tax levies of each of the municipalities within the County, compared to the total collected. Greensboro’s FY 2017 share of the sales tax distribution increased due to a decline in Guilford County’s property tax rate from FY 2016 to FY 2017, however, healthy gains were also noted in retail sales activity this year. Local option sales taxes represent approximately 18.7% of overall general fund revenues in FY 2017.
The total sales tax rate in Guilford County is 6.75% with 4.75% charged for the general state rate and 2.00% charged for the local option. The local option sales tax currently in effect is distributed to the County as follows, with subsequent distribution to Greensboro and the other municipalities in the County, based on the “ad valorem” method:
Article 39 (1%) Point of Origin Article 40 (1/2%) Per Capita Article 42 (1/2%) Point of Origin
Greensboro’s occupancy tax collection of $4,075,208 has increased 32.1% over the ten-year period ending June 30, 2017 and generated a 4.3% gain this year. Construction of three new hotels are planned or underway in downtown Greensboro.
Intergovernmental Revenues amounted to $52,613,376 as compared to previous year revenues of $55,388,556. State-shared and grant revenues are a major source of funding for municipal operations and services, with intergovernmental revenues comprising 17.5% of total general governmental revenues, as compared to 18.9% in the previous year.
Licenses and permits amounted to $4,281,430 compared to previous year revenues of $4,390,773 a decrease of 2.5%.
Fines and forfeitures amounted to $2,019,877 as compared to the previous year's collection of $1,864,116, an increase of 8.4% over last year. The increase was primarily due to increased parking violation collections.
Charges for current services amounted to $24,204,933 as compared to the previous year's revenue of $19,919,398 an increase of 21.5% primarily due to an increased motor vehicle fee from $10 to $30 for street and sidewalk improvements and an increase in 911 surcharge revenue for the Emergency Telephone System Fund
D-19 Cash Management
The City's investment policy is to minimize credit and market risks while maintaining a competitive yield on its portfolio. Accordingly, deposits were either insured by federal depository insurance or collateralized. All collateral on deposits was held either by the City or its agent. All investments held by the City during the year and at June 30, 2017 are classified in various levels of fair value hierarchy as defined by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board.
The City's cash management program provided the City with interest earnings totaling $3,567,988 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017 as compared to $3,481,487 in the prior year. Cash balances are analyzed daily to forecast the amount of funds required and amounts available for investment. The average amount of funds invested per month totaled $340,794,986 during the year. The City's average yield on investments for the year was 1.05%, down from 1.06% in the prior year. Interest earnings were the equivalent of nearly 1.40 cents on the tax rate for FY 2016-17 compared to 1.38 cents last year.
B. Proprietary Funds
Proprietary Funds provide the same type of information found in the government-wide financial statements but in more detail. Other factors concerning the finances of the proprietary funds have already been addressed in the discussion of the City of Greensboro’s business-type activities.
General Fund Budgetary Highlights
The General Fund budget for FY 2016-17 was adopted at $279,235,247 (excluding carry-forward encumbrances) and represents an increase of approximately 4.2% compared to the adopted FY 2015- 16 budget. Encumbrances of $3,674,807 were carried forward from FY 2016 commitments. Significant variances from the original and final amended budget follow:
The General Fund budget increased by $6,784,202 from original to final amended in FY 2017 primarily for transferring funds accumulated for Law Enforcement pension benefits to a newly established Pension Trust Fund.
As of June 30, 2017, the City had collected $267.9 million or 99.5% of its budgeted General Fund revenues and had incurred $269.1 million or 94.1% of its budgeted expenditures. Significant differences between actual results and the final amended budget are highlighted below:
Overall General Fund revenues were lower compared to the final amended budget by approximately $1.3 million primarily in the areas of Utility taxes ($2.4 million) and property taxes ($956 thousand). Revenue generated from sales taxes was higher than the final amended budget by approximately $1.8 million.
Actual expenditures compared to final budget were less by $16.9 million or approximately 5.9%, noting approximately $1.3 million in savings in building maintenance costs in Engineering and Building Maintenance, $1.2 million less for Field Operations, approximately $1.7 million net overall savings in public safety operations following the transfer of Public Safety IT operations to the Guilford Metro Communications Fund, and $2 million in savings within the Culture and Recreation department. A budgeted contribution of $6.4 million from the General Fund establishing the LEOSSA Pension Benefit Trust was not necessary as the beginning net position was restated.
D-20 Cost containments during FY 2017 allowed for new staff additions with no increase in the property tax rate. Approximately 10 net new FTE’s were added, including 6 new fire positions to complete the goal of 4 firefighter positions on each ladder company shift.
FY 2017 included a 2.75% average merit increase for employees, along with further implementation of compensation study recommendations.
Capital Asset and Debt Administration
A. Capital Assets
The City’s investment in capital assets including intangible assets for both its governmental and business-type activities as of June 30, 2017, amounts to $1,320,792,609 (net of accumulated depreciation/amortization). These assets include buildings, roads and bridges, land, machinery and equipment, park facilities, vehicles and intangible assets such as easements, software and licenses and water rights among other types of assets. This investment represents an increase of $80,498,022 or 6.5% over the prior year. Table C-1 Capital Assets (Net of Depreciation/Amortization-in thousands of dollars)
Governmental Business-Type Activities Activities Total 2017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016 Land $ 93,667 $ 87,106 $ 50,797 $ 45,869 $ 144,464 $ 132,975 Construction in Progress 18,712 17,032 67,331 90,094 86,043 107,126 Intangible Assets-Easements 23,208 22,252 23,208 22,252 Buildings 99,065 101,221 171,085 172,602 270,150 273,823 Land Improvements 21,000 13,501 26,841 24,573 47,841 38,074 Improvements Other Than Buildings 87 89 4,524 4,768 4,611 4,857 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 58,775 45,356 40,009 25,338 98,784 70,694 Infrastructure 168,538 152,335 399,793 359,860 568,331 512,195 Intangible Assets 73 149 77,288 78,150 77,361 78,299 Total Capital Assets $ 459,917 $ 416,789 $ 860,876 $ 823,506 $1,320,793 $1,240,295 This year’s major capital asset additions included:
Business Activities asset additions totaled over $37 million, with nearly all of the increase due to new construction in progress for utility system improvements. Developers also donated approximately $2.9 million of the additional water and sewer infrastructure line improvements.
General government infrastructure additions were mainly sidewalk, street, and right-of-way ($22.6 million) some of which are bond funded. The City also added $10.9 million to its heavy equipment and fleet inventory, maintained in the Equipment Services Internal Service Fund.
Construction in progress for governmental-type and business-type capital assets totaled $18,712,261 and $67,331,199 respectively as of June 30, 2017 compared to $17,032,139 and $90,094,469 last year. There are significant wastewater utility facility improvements in progress.
D-21 The City adopted the FY 2018-2027 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) totaling $1,695,812,251 for projects as outlined below: Table C-2 CIP Expenditures – 10 Year Plan
CIP Expenditure Category by Service Area % of Total CIP Infrastructure 88.38% Community Services 8.94% Public Safety 2.68% 100.0%
Table C-3 CIP Funding Sources – 10 Year Plan
CIP Funding Source % of Total CIP Authorized Bonds 15.15% Revenue Bonds 20.93% Enterprise Funds 17.40% Grants/Other 22.64% Unauthorized Bonds 23.88% 100.0%
Additional information on the City’s capital assets can be found in Note I.D.5 and IV.C of this report.
B. Long-Term Debt
As of June 30, 2017, the City had total bonded debt outstanding (at par) of $480,318,807 with $185,527,315 backed by the full faith, credit and taxing power of the City, $40,213,116 backed by Hotel/Motel occupancy tax of the City, $252,328,376 backed by a revenue pledge of the Combined Enterprise System (currently Water Resources utility system) and $2,250,000 backed by a pledge of certain local sales tax revenues.
D-22 Table D-1 General Obligation, Limited Obligation, Special Obligation and Revenue Bonds – Outstanding Debt (in thousands of dollars) Governmental Business-Type Activities Activities Total 2017 2016 2017 2016 2017 2016 General Obligation Bonds $ 167,030 $ 137,950 $ $ $ 167,030 $ 137,950 General Obligation BANS 18,497 31,023 18,497 31,023 Limited Obligation Notes 11,323 1,057 11,323 1,057 Limited Obligation Bonds 23,250 23,860 23,250 23,860 Certificates of Participation 5,640 5,930 5,640 5,930 Special Obligation Bonds 2,250 2,930 2,250 2,930 Revenue Bonds 210,990 224,630 210,990 224,630 Revenue BANS 41,338 18,497 41,338 18,497 Total $ 225,740 $ 199,820 $ 254,578 $ 246,057 $ 480,318 $ 445,877
The City’s total overall outstanding bonded long-term liabilities increased approximately $34.45 million during the current fiscal year due to additions to the City’s BANs for construction-related activity which were offset by scheduled debt service payments. As of June 2017, the City had three outstanding construction period-type note agreements that provide a privately-placed commitment to fund capital projects as the expenditures are being incurred, effectively delaying actual long-term bond issuances for several more years. These commitments include a $50 million General Obligation BAN, a $50 million Combined Enterprise System Revenue BAN, and a $20 million Limited Obligation Note. The notes mature in fiscal years 2019, 2020, and 2022 respectively and have associated variable interest rates. In FY 2014, the City’s Series 1994B variable rate general obligation swap matured, leaving $5.7 million in one “effective” hedging derivative instrument, which carried a negative mark-to-market valuation of ($318,402) as of June 30, 2017.
The City of Greensboro has a general obligation bond rating of Aaa from Moody’s Investors Service and a AAA rating from both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings. These bond ratings are a clear indication of the sound financial condition of the City of Greensboro. Greensboro’s credit worthiness is a major factor in securing the highest possible general obligation bond rating. This credit worthiness, according to recent rating reports, is the result of diversifying businesses, a stable and consistent growth in the taxpayer base, the conservative fiscal policies for reserve and debt management and the operating performance, as well as financial flexibility. Other factors considered and affecting the high-grade credit position is the history of budgeting, the moderate debt position and the oversight provided by the North Carolina Local Government Commission.
North Carolina general statutes limit the amount of general obligation debt that a unit of government can issue to 8 percent of the total assessed value of taxable property located within that government’s boundaries. The legal debt margin for the City of Greensboro is $1,604,171,430. The City has $258,237,486 in authorized, but unissued bonds at June 30, 2017 which includes $134.037 million for Street Improvements, $39.741 million for Parks and Recreational Facilities and $25.131 million for Housing Bonds, $38.5 million for Economic Development, $8.204 million for Greensboro Science Center Bonds and $12.624 million for refunding bonds. Each referendum item was voted on separately. $18.5 million of this authorization was issued as bond anticipation notes as of June 30, 2017 for Parks and Recreation Facilities, and Street Improvements.
More detailed information about the City’s long-term liabilities is presented in Note IV.G.
D-23 Economic Factors and Next Year’s Budgets and Rates
The Greensboro area economy continued to gain strength in several areas including building permit and housing activity. National indicators report a 15.3% increase in the number of permits issued in the U.S. for the twelve month period ending August 2017 compared to the prior year. The number of existing homes sold in the Triad in Q2 of 2017 was up 8.4% compared to last year. Average home prices are also up 4.7% over August 2016 at $192,918. Unemployment decreased from 5.2% in June 2016 to a seasonally adjusted rate of 5.0%, slightly above the national average. Hotel/Motel occupancy taxes continued to increase for the sixth year in a row. Sales taxes grew more than 5.9% compared to FY 2016, partially due to a change in the distribution percentage received from Guilford County which is based on the ad valorem tax rates of municipalities within the County in a given year.
The City’s adopted FY 2018 budget for all funds increased $10.7 million or 2% to approximately $535 million, primarily in the infrastructure area for utility improvements, increased debt service payments, and Coliseum improvements. The assessed base value of all real and personal property is projected to grow approximately 5.06% in FY 2018 and includes the results of a county-wide property revaluation, effective January 2017. The FY 2018 budget was adopted with a property tax rate of $.6325 cents per $100 of assessed value (the same rate for the past six years) and includes allocations of $.035, $.0069 and $.5856 to fund transit, housing and general government initiatives, respectively, along with another $.0050 to fund economic development projects, amounting to about $1.4 million each year. Funds for FY 2018 are fully allocated for a variety of items, which should spur additional economic growth.
City Council has reaffirmed its intention to continue to maintain the unassigned fund balance of the General Fund at 9% of the 2018 fiscal year budget, or approximately $25.8 million.
Budget Highlights for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018
Governmental Activities:
The General Fund budget for FY 2018 was adopted at approximately $286.2 million (up 3.8%) with approximately $10.4 million in increased appropriations over the amended FY 2017 budget. Overall the General Fund budget shows a net decrease of about 14 positions, including 7 positions IT moved to the Guilford Metro Communications Fund and several deletions for vacant positions. The budget also estimates increased projected revenues of more than 5.25% from local option sales tax and 1% from electric utility sales taxes shared with the state. Major budgeted initiatives continue to include economic development and job creation. One half cent on the tax rate in the Economic Development Fund will generate approximately $1.4 million, set aside to serve as the primary funding source to support the Triad Stage, Greensboro Community Development Fund, and the Launch Lab.
Additional capital needs in FY 2018 include upgrades at the Public Safety Training Center, the Cultural Arts Building and upgrades for building entry security at various City facilities. Appropriated General Fund fund balance is $6.6 million, or 2.3% of the total budget, but has historically been unused.
No significant services or programs were eliminated and few new service enhancements were funded. The budget included a 3% average merit increase for employees.
The second year budget for FY 2019 is balanced with a 63.25 cent tax rate, unchanged from the adopted FY 2018 rate.
D-24 In FY 2018, the Debt Service Fund budget increased from the prior adopted budget to approximately $27.5 million. The amount of general obligation debt service as a percentage of General Fund expenditures is projected to be 9.6% in FY 2018, within the City’s target goal of 10%.
Business-Type Activities:
The Water Resources budget increased approximately $4.3 million or 3.5% for the FY 2018 budget as compared to the previous budget. Transfers of $28.9 million to the Water Resources Capital Reserve Fund are budgeted to allow for capital expenditure needs in accordance with the long-term Capital Improvement Plan as well as improve the City’s water and sewer system, including rehabilitation of older water and sewer lines. Water Resources overall staffing levels are projected to increase by 6.5 FTEs to support various service enhancements. Debt service payments will increase from about $23.3 million to $25.6 million, supporting the enterprise’s planned debt program. Water Resources instituted a rate increase of 3.25% for customers inside the City and 5.5% for customers outside the City on July 1, 2017, which is expected to generate $3.8 million in additional revenues. The rate increase equates to approximately $1.38 more per month for customers inside the City and approximately $5.69 more per month for those outside and still positions Greensboro as having the second lowest water rates among North Carolina cities, (January 2017) with a water bill of 1.29% of the Median Household Income (MHI). Rates of less than 2% of MHI are considered to be favorable. Approximately 95% of all of the utility’s customers reside within the City limits.
Requests for Information
This financial report is designed to provide a general overview of the City of Greensboro’s finances and to demonstrate the City’s accountability for the money it receives. Questions concerning any information provided in this report or requests for additional information should be addressed to City of Greensboro Financial and Administrative Services Department, P.O. Box 3136, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402- 3136 or by calling (336) 373-2077, or by visiting our website at www.greensboro-nc.gov.
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D-26 APPENDIX0B E
Financial Information
Financial Statements
The financial statements of the City have been audited by certified public accountants for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2017, 2016, and 2015. Copies of these financial statements containing the reports of the independent certified public accountants are available in the office of Rick Luck, Finance Director, One Governmental Plaza, PO Box 3136, Greensboro, NC 27402-3136. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the City for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the past 43 years, including the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017. To receive this award, the highest form of recognition in governmental financial reporting, a governmental unit must publish a financial report which complies with both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements. The City believes that the annual financial report for the year ended June 30, 2018, will continue to meet the requirements under the Certificate of Achievement Program.
The City financial statements are presented under Government Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 34 (GASB 34) model. This model, in addition to presenting the government- wide financial statements which are shown on pages E-2 through E-5 of this official statement, also includes fund and budgetary reporting.
The government-wide financial statements are prepared on the full accrual basis of accounting, which in the past has only been used to report the assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses of providing enterprise-type services. The government-wide statements as prepared under GASB Statement No. 34 now report capital assets and all long-term obligations, for both its governmental-type and business-type activities. As a result, government officials can now demonstrate operational accountability in their stewardship of public funds in the long-term, in addition to demonstrating fiscal accountability in the short-term through the budgetary statements.
Fund reporting is presented to report on the government’s most important funds individually as major funds instead of reporting all funds in the aggregate by fund type. The General Fund is always a major fund for a unit of government, and other governmental or enterprise funds may qualify as well. Also, in addition to presenting the budget as it stands at fiscal year-end, the budget is presented as originally adopted by the governing board as well. This information will provide readers the opportunity to see what changes have been made to the budget over the course of the fiscal year and to evaluate the City’s ability to manage and estimate its resources. See pages E-12 and E-19 for the presentation of the City’s budgetary statement.
The following financial statements are the Basic Financial Statements of the City and the notes thereto, lifted from the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report of the City for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017.
E-1 Exhibit A-1
City of Greensboro Statement of Net Position June 30, 2017
Primary Government
Governmental Business-Type Component ASSETS Activities Activities Total Units
Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 131,715,957 $ 80,931,371 $ 212,647,328 $ 10,000,273 Receivables, Net Taxes 4,607,769 4,607,769 535,095 Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 28,786,780 17,100,777 45,887,557 15,742 Assessments 16,313 16,313 Rent 1,400 1,400 Intergovernmental 26,856,516 838,340 27,694,856 4,585,621 Interest 408,525 226,983 635,508 929,755 Real Estate Foreclosed 736,841 736,841 Internal Balances (7,326,235) 7,326,235 Due from Component Unit 827,107 827,107 Inventories 1,803,137 4,537,093 6,340,230 3,460,998 Miscellaneous 271,191 148,953 420,144 249,694 Assets Held for Resale 695,180 695,180 5,394,601 Self-Funded Retention Deposits 16,461,099 16,461,099 Long-Term Note Receivable 265,319 265,319 12,529,411 Restricted Assets: Temporarily Restricted: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments 23,977,788 83,240,938 107,218,726 269,157 Receivables, (Net): Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 1,078,540 1,078,540 Assessments 574,241 574,241 Intergovernmental 745,988 745,988 31,875 Interest 182,221 182,221 Permanently Restricted: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments 2,427,876 2,427,876 Capital Assets, Net Non-Depreciable: Land 93,667,366 50,796,943 144,464,309 4,707,778 Construction in Progress 18,712,261 67,331,199 86,043,460 93,577 Intangible Assets - Easements 23,207,825 23,207,825 Depreciable: Land Improvements 41,021,986 49,760,286 90,782,272 95,355 Accumulated Depreciation (20,021,689) (22,918,979) (42,940,668) (15,798) Buildings 180,051,740 315,558,209 495,609,949 42,535,475 Accumulated Depreciation (80,987,439) (144,473,436) (225,460,875) (11,182,846) Improvements Other than Buildings 94,000 9,988,483 10,082,483 525,524 Accumulated Depreciation (7,050) (5,464,561) (5,471,611) (419,805) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 178,866,352 76,705,365 255,571,717 26,646,700 Accumulated Depreciation (120,091,312) (36,696,293) (156,787,605) (16,125,897) Infrastructure 317,049,534 717,449,536 1,034,499,070 Accumulated Depreciation (148,511,575) (317,657,009) (466,168,584) Intangible Assets 4,240,843 94,604,357 98,845,200 123,880 Accumulated Amortization (4,168,249) (17,316,084) (21,484,333) (17,697) Total Assets 693,262,552 1,056,994,300 1,750,256,852 84,968,468
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES Unamortized Bond Refunding Charges 1,167,838 3,113,089 4,280,927 Pension Deferrals 29,418,409 5,409,052 34,827,461 525,841 Current Year Pension Contributions 10,412,705 1,671,143 12,083,848 182,569 Accumulated Decrease in Fair Value of Hedging Derivatives 318,402 318,402 Total Deferred Outflows of Resources 41,317,354 10,193,284 51,510,638 708,410
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-2 Exhibit A-1
Primary Government Governmental Business-Type Component LIABILITIES Activities Activities Total Units Accounts Payable $ 18,254,173 $ 8,339,077 $ 26,593,250 $ 2,680,483 Contracts/Retainage Payable 2,382,233 878,946 3,261,179 1,350,840 Notes Payable 123,900 Intergovernmental Payable 3,652,724 3,422 3,656,146 Customer Deposits Payable 671,402 4,493,004 5,164,406 Pollution Remediation Payable 427,534 427,534 Accrued Interest Payable 2,567,439 631,401 3,198,840 Accrued Landfill Liability 500,000 500,000 Due to Primary Government 827,107 Miscellaneous 111,998 111,998 77,631 Prepaid Privilege License Fees 17,325 17,325 Prepaid Business License Fees 1,600 1,600 Unearned Grant Revenues 2,548,149 2,548,149 Unearned Contributions/Donations 324,719 324,719 Unearned Revenues 753,819 753,819 Liabilities Payable from Restricted Assets: Accounts Payable 1,037,771 1,037,771 Contracts/Retainage Payable 5,722,555 6,982,998 12,705,553 22,817 Miscellaneous 1,572,710 1,572,710 Noncurrent Liabilities: Due Within One Year: General Obligation Bonds Payable 16,498,888 16,498,888 Lease Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 3,045,159 12,485,337 15,530,496 Revenue Bonds Payable 16,389,479 16,389,479 Revenue BANS Payable 41,338,376 41,338,376 Limited Obligation Bonds Payable 732,503 732,503 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 715,000 715,000 Certificates of Participation Payable 348,014 348,014 Compensated Absences 7,277,193 1,386,083 8,663,276 51,341 Due in More Than One Year: Derivative Instrument Liability 318,402 318,402 General Obligation Bonds Payable 163,404,246 163,404,246 General Obligation BANS Payable 18,497,315 18,497,315 Limited Obligation Notes Payable 11,323,116 11,323,116 Limited Obligation Bonds Payable 23,899,542 23,899,542 Lease Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 19,824,964 530,212 20,355,176 Revenue Bonds Payable 202,872,735 202,872,735 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 1,535,000 1,535,000 Certificates of Participation Payable 5,581,691 5,581,691 Notes Payable 4,243,965 Compensated Absences 5,252,167 779,026 6,031,193 1,890 Pollution Remediation Payable 1,111,536 1,111,536 Accrued Landfill Liability 25,554,129 25,554,129 Other Postemployment Benefits Payable 9,623,444 1,702,313 11,325,757 Net Pension Liability 70,944,533 8,445,948 79,390,481 864,003 Unearned Revenues 2,297,461 Miscellaneous 411,190 Total Liabilities 395,435,975 337,855,375 733,291,350 12,952,628 DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Prepaid Taxes 16,692 16,692 Prepaid Assessments 17,282 17,282 Pension Deferrals 3,795,990 537,150 4,333,140 Total Deferred Inflows of Resources 3,829,964 537,150 4,367,114 NET POSITION Net Investment in Capital Assets 227,076,680 588,122,791 815,199,471 44,956,592 Restricted for: Assets Held for Resale 695,180 695,180 3,096,890 Stabilization by State Statute 61,577,368 61,577,368 Highway Improvements 3,346,090 3,346,090 Culture and Recreation 800,625 800,625 Capital Projects 77,760,390 77,760,390 278,215 Neighborhood Development 22,344 22,344 143,299 Economic Opportunity 5,509,081 5,509,081 Public Safety 524,690 524,690 Self-Funded Retention Deposits 16,461,099 16,461,099 Perpetual Care: Perpetual Maintenance 2,427,876 2,427,876 Greensboro ABC Board Working Capital 1,383,112 Unrestricted 16,872,934 62,911,878 79,784,812 22,866,142 Total Net Position $ 335,313,967 $ 728,795,059 $ 1,064,109,026 $ 72,724,250
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-3 City of Greensboro Exhibit A-2 Statement of Activities For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Program Revenues Operating Capital Charges for Grants and Grants and Expenses Services Contributions Contributions
Functions/Programs Primary Government: Governmental Activities: General Government $ 23,520,137 $ 10,017,288 $ 13,890 $ 527,853 Public Safety 145,818,985 9,280,080 3,315,371 319,636 Transportation 23,854,185 5,618,292 964,612 2,544,329 Engineering and Building Maintenance 16,708,113 1,684,150 Field Operations 35,460,734 6,620,078 7,344,149 Environmental Services 141,120 484,649 196,717 15,123 Culture and Recreation 33,166,935 2,988,038 1,873,364 15,240,354 Neighborhood Development 5,632,049 176,306 4,082,035 Economic Opportunity 7,800,130 542,598 4,782,640 Interest, Fees on Long-Term Debt 6,912,938
Total Governmental Activities 299,015,326 37,411,479 22,572,778 18,647,295
Business-Type Activities: Water Operations 46,530,083 54,216,578 2,915,781 Sewer Operations 45,735,043 58,784,050 Stormwater Management 9,237,960 9,686,669 963,342 War Memorial Coliseum 32,619,169 23,582,188 3,659,114 Solid Waste Management 13,622,929 12,616,110 Parking Facilities 2,951,230 2,399,536
Total Business-Type Activities 150,696,414 161,285,131 7,538,237
Total Primary Government $ 449,711,740 $ 198,696,610 $ 22,572,778 $ 26,185,532
Component Units: Greensboro Housing Dev. Partnership $ 27,978 $ 15,907 $ $ Greensboro Redevelopment Commission 862,466 1,025,023 320,173 Greensboro Transit Authority 24,199,180 2,332,549 911,203 6,682,752 Greensboro ABC Board 35,554,801 35,954,801
Total Component Units $ 60,644,425 $ 38,303,257 $ 1,936,226 $ 7,002,925
General Revenues: Property Tax Local Option Sales Tax Vehicle Gross Receipts Tax Motor Vehicle Tax Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax Electric Utility Sales Tax Piped Natural Gas Sales Tax Telecommunications Sales Tax Beer and Wine Tax Payment in Lieu of Taxes ABC Profit Distribution-unrestricted Intergovernmental - unrestricted Investment Income Miscellaneous Total General Revenues
Transfers In (Out) Total General Revenues Including Transfers
Change in Net Position
Net Position - July 1 Prior Period Restatement Net Position - July 1, (restated)
Net Position - June 30
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-4 Exhibit A-2
Net (Expenses) Revenue and Changes in Net Position Primary Government Governmental Business-Type Component Activities Activities Total Units
$ (12,961,106) $ $ (12,961,106) $ (132,903,898) (132,903,898) (14,726,952) (14,726,952) (15,023,963) (15,023,963) (21,496,507) (21,496,507) 555,369 555,369 (13,065,179) (13,065,179) (1,373,708) (1,373,708) (2,474,892) (2,474,892) (6,912,938) (6,912,938)
(220,383,774) (220,383,774)
10,602,276 10,602,276 13,049,007 13,049,007 1,412,051 1,412,051 (5,377,867) (5,377,867) (1,006,819) (1,006,819) (551,694) (551,694)
18,126,954 18,126,954
(220,383,774) 18,126,954 (202,256,820)
(12,071) 482,730 (14,272,676) 400,000
(13,402,017)
156,027,395 156,027,395 9,066,445 50,242,614 50,242,614 336,941 336,941 1,119,392 4,075,208 4,075,208 16,177,281 16,177,281 1,028,488 1,028,488 6,163,499 6,163,499 1,280,233 1,280,233 106,660 106,660 3,773,528 3,773,528 53,405 53,405 53,405 1,445,671 832,765 2,278,436 949,921 1,453,642 1,773,423 3,227,065 5,460 242,164,565 2,606,188 244,770,753 11,141,218
(14,855,691) 14,855,691
227,308,874 17,461,879 244,770,753 11,141,218
6,925,100 35,588,833 42,513,933 (2,260,799)
359,835,002 693,206,226 1,053,041,228 74,985,049 (31,446,135) (31,446,135) 328,388,867 693,206,226 1,021,595,093 74,985,049
$ 335,313,967 $ 728,795,059 $ 1,064,109,026 $ 72,724,250
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-5 Exhibit A-3 BALANCE SHEET Governmental Funds June 30, 2017 OTHER TOTAL (1) DEBT GOVERNMENTAL GOVERNMENTAL ASSETS GENERAL SERVICE FUNDS FUNDS Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 51,313,771 $ 16,362,145 $ 16,197,597 $ 83,873,513 Receivables: Taxes 4,524,986 82,783 4,607,769 Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 2,426,288 25,549,909 27,976,197 Assessments 16,313 16,313 Rent 1,400 1,400 Intergovernmental 20,873,560 146,155 4,824,950 25,844,665 Real Estate Foreclosed 736,841 736,841 Internal Receivables 24,100 684,975 709,075 Due from Component Unit 827,107 827,107 Inventories 975,385 975,385 Miscellaneous 271,191 271,191 Assets Held for Resale 95,180 95,180 Restricted Assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments 1,848,417 24,557,247 26,405,664 Receivables: Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 1,078,540 1,078,540 Total Assets $ 83,821,646 $ 16,508,300 $ 73,088,894 $ 173,418,840 LIABILITIES, DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND FUND BALANCES Liabilities: Accounts Payable $2,230,387 $ 20,625 $ 247,158 $ 2,498,170 Contracts/Retainage Payable 433,550 1,922,850 2,356,400 Intergovernmental Payable 3,652,724 3,652,724 Customer Deposits Payable 625,351 625,351 Internal Payables 709,075 709,075 Miscellaneous 111,998 111,998 Prepaid Privilege License Fees 17,325 17,325 Prepaid Business Permit Fees 1,600 1,600 Unearned Grant Revenues 5,043,241 5,043,241 Unearned Contributions/Donations 324,719 324,719 Liabilities Payable From Restricted Assets: Accounts Payable 1,037,771 1,037,771 Contracts/Retainage Payable 5,722,555 5,722,555 Miscellaneous 1,572,710 1,572,710 Total Liabilities 8,858,366 20,625 14,794,648 23,673,639 Deferred Inflows of Resources: Property Taxes Receivable 4,524,986 82,783 4,607,769 Notes and Mortgages Receivable 32,300 32,300 Other Accounts Receivable 823,709 16,313 840,022 Prepaid Taxes 16,692 16,692 Prepaid Assessments 17,282 17,282 Total Deferred Inflows of Resources 5,365,387 148,678 5,514,065 Fund Balances: Non-Spendable: Inventories 975,385 975,385 Miscellaneous Prepaid Expenditures 271,191 271,191 Perpetual Maintenance 2,427,876 2,427,876 Assets Held for Resale 95,180 95,180 Total Non-Spendable Fund Balance 1,246,576 2,523,056 3,769,632 Restricted: Stabilization by State Statute 28,346,163 150,905 33,080,300 61,577,368 Debt Covenants 16,930,920 16,930,920 Grantor Requirements - Highway Improvements 3,163,184 3,163,184 Total Restricted Fund Balance 28,346,163 150,905 53,174,404 81,671,472 Committed: For 911 Program 420,297 420,297 For Special Tax Districts 479,950 479,950 For Neighborhood Development 2,308,715 2,308,715 For Economic Opportunity 399,601 399,601 For Cemetery Maintenance 118,438 118,438 For Debt Service 4,664,865 4,664,865 Total Committed Fund Balance 8,391,866 8,391,866 Assigned: Appropriated for Subsequent Year's Expenditures 6,602,801 957,885 7,560,686 For Debt Service 16,336,770 16,336,770 For Capital Projects 7,644,005 4,174,971 11,818,976 Total Assigned Fund Balance 14,246,806 16,336,770 5,132,856 35,716,432 Unassigned 25,758,348 (11,076,614) 14,681,734 Total Fund Balances 69,597,893 16,487,675 58,145,568 144,231,136 Total Liabilities, Deferred Inflows of Resources and Fund Balances $ 83,821,646 $ 16,508,300 $ 73,088,894 $ 173,418,840 (1) After internal receivables and payables have been eliminated.
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-6 Exhibit A-4
City of Greensboro Reconciliation of the Balance Sheet of Governmental Funds To the Statement of Net Position June 30, 2017
Total fund balances - governmental funds $ 144,231,136
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the Statement of Net Position are different because:
Capital assets used in governmental activities are not financial resources and, therefore, are not reported in the funds. 401,960,954
Net pension obligation - LGERS Plan. (42,657,178) Net pension obligation - LEOSSA Plan. (25,009,255) Net OPEB obligation (8,897,035)
Contribution to the pension plan in the current fiscal year are deferred outflows of resources on the Statement of Net Position: LGERS Plan 8,440,291 LEOSSA Plan 1,323,798
Internal service funds are used by management to charge the costs of equipment services, technical services, information services, metro communications, graphic services, employee risk retention, general risk retention and capital leasing to individual funds. The assets and liabilities of the internal service funds are included in governmental activities in the statement of net position. 80,163,554
Earned revenues considered deferred inflows of resources and unearned revenues in fund statements due to "availability" criteria. 7,975,181
Long-term liabilities included in net position (includes the addition of long-term debt and principal payments during the year.) (256,241,666)
Pension related deferrals: LGERS Plan 24,606,079 LEOSSA Plan (874,579)
Miscellaneous adjustments to net position includes investment income receivable not reported in the governmental funds. 292,687
Net position of governmental activities $ 335,313,967
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-7 Exhibit A-5
STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES Governmental Funds For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
OTHER TOTAL DEBT GOVERNMENTAL GOVERNMENTAL GENERAL SERVICE FUNDS FUNDS
Revenues: Taxes $ 203,120,010 $ $ 8,027,905 $ 211,147,915 Assessments 953 953 Intergovernmental 32,033,180 20,580,196 52,613,376 Licenses and Permits 4,281,430 4,281,430 Fines and Forfeitures 2,019,877 2,019,877 Charges for Current Services 16,901,319 7,303,614 24,204,933
Investment Income 1,489,938 194,023 1,683,961 Net Increase (Decrease) in the Fair Value of Investments (408,968) (408,968) Total Investment Income 1,080,970 194,023 1,274,993
Miscellaneous 3,457,032 130,519 1,031,988 4,619,539
Total Revenues 261,812,848 1,211,489 37,138,679 300,163,016
Expenditures: Current: General Government 20,224,131 221,661 889,250 21,335,042 Public Safety 123,109,020 7,468,906 130,577,926 Transportation 9,923,799 28,939,104 38,862,903 Environmental Services 138,194 138,194 Engineering and Building Maintenance 15,305,398 552,510 15,857,908 Field Operations 34,952,060 34,952,060 Culture and Recreation 26,571,445 6,502,556 33,074,001 Neighborhood Development 121,510 6,009,215 6,130,725 Economic Opportunity 955,763 6,768,045 7,723,808 Intergovernmental 2,042,687 2,042,687 Debt Service: Principal Retirement 11,612,462 900,000 12,512,462 Interest, Fees on Long-Term Debt 5,574,821 1,293,404 6,868,225
Total Expenditures 233,205,813 17,408,944 59,461,184 310,075,941
Excess of Revenues Over (Under) Expenditures 28,607,035 (16,197,455) (22,322,505) (9,912,925)
Other Financing Sources (Uses): Debt Issuances: General Obligation Bonds Issued 62,590,000 62,590,000 General Obligation BANs Issued 37,474,308 37,474,308 Limited Obligation BAN Issued 10,265,798 10,265,798 Premium on Debt 10,500,223 (224,191) 10,276,032 Payment to Escrow Agent for Refunding of Debt (72,555,141) (72,555,141) Transfers In 6,119,000 21,240,623 5,137,555 32,497,178 Transfers Out (35,935,725) (19,216,308) (55,152,033)
Total Other Financing Sources (Uses) (29,816,725) 21,775,705 33,437,162 25,396,142
Net Change in Fund Balances (1,209,690) 5,578,250 11,114,657 15,483,217
Fund Balances - July 1 77,173,159 10,909,425 47,030,911 135,113,495 Prior Period Restatement (6,365,576) (6,365,576) Fund Balances - July 1, (restated) 70,807,583 10,909,425 47,030,911 128,747,919
Fund Balances - June 30 $ 69,597,893 $ 16,487,675 $ 58,145,568 $ 144,231,136
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-8 Exhibit A-6
City of Greensboro Reconciliation of the Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances of Governmental Funds To the Statement of Activities For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the statement of activities are different because:
Net change in fund balances----total governmental funds. $ 15,483,217
Governmental funds report capital outlays as expenditures. However, in the statement of activities the cost of those assets is allocated over their estimated useful lives and reported as depreciation expense. This is the amount by which capital outlays and capital contributions exceeded depreciation in the current period, including amounts for disposals. 30,544,298
Revenues in the statement of activities that do not provide current financial resources are not reported as revenues in the funds. 3,813,216
The issuance of long-term debt (e.g., bonds, leases) provides current financial resources to governmental funds, while the repayment of the principal of long-term debt consumes the current financial resources of governmental funds. Neither transaction, however, has any effect on net position. Also, governmental funds report the effect of premiums, discounts, and similar items when debt is first issued, whereas these amounts are unearned and amortized in the statement of activities. Includes compensated absence activities. (34,771,178)
Change in OPEB Obligation (3,658,200)
Internal service funds are used by management to charge the costs of equipment services, technical services, information services, metro communications, graphic services, employee risk retention, general risk retention, and capital leasing to individual funds. The net revenue of certain activities of internal service funds is reported with governmental activities. 905,429
Some expenses reported in the Statement of Activities do not require the use of current financial resources and, therefore, are not reported as expenditures in governmental funds and contributions to the pension plan in the current fiscal year are not included in the Statement of Activities: LGERS Plan (2,781,210) LEOSSA Plan 520,523
Revenues earned in prior year that first became available in the current year in the government funds have been reclassed to beginning net position in the statement of activities. (3,130,995)
Change in net position of governmental activities $ 6,925,100
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-9 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-10 General Fund
The General Fund is the principal fund of the City from which the major portion of the City's operations are financed. This fund finances the regular operation of all departments except Enterprise Fund and Internal Service Fund departments.
A summary of revenues and other financing sources and expenditures and other financing uses for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017 is presented below:
Percent of Amount Total Revenues and Other Financing Sources
Taxes$ 203,120,010 75.8% Intergovernmental 32,033,180 12.0% Licenses and Permits 4,281,430 1.6% Fines and Forfeitures 2,019,877 0.7% Charges for Current Services 16,901,319 6.3% Miscellaneous 3,457,032 1.3% Other Financing Sources 6,119,000 2.3% Total Revenues and Other Financing Sources$ 267,931,848 100.0%
Expenditures and Other Financing Uses
General Government$ 20,224,131 7.5% Public Safety 123,109,020 45.7% Transportation 9,923,799 3.7% Engineering and Building Maintenance 15,305,398 5.7% Field Operations 34,952,060 13.0% Culture and Recreation 26,571,445 9.9% Neighborhood Development 121,510 0.0% Economic Opportunity 955,763 0.4% Intergovernmental 2,042,687 0.8% Other Financing Uses 35,935,725 13.3% Total Expenditures and Other Financing Uses$ 269,141,538 100.0%
E-11 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Revenues: Taxes: Ad Valorem Taxes-Current Year $ 139,214,000 $ 139,214,000 $ 138,536,711 $ (677,289) Ad Valorem Taxes-Prior Year 1,500,000 1,500,000 1,099,302 (400,698) State of NC RMV Taxes-Current Year 12,087,000 12,087,000 12,616,962 529,962 Penalties and Interest 860,000 860,000 452,302 (407,698) Local Option Sales Tax 48,306,120 48,306,120 50,077,792 1,771,672 Vehicle Gross Receipts Tax 325,000 325,000 336,941 11,941 Total Taxes 202,292,120 202,292,120 203,120,010 827,890
Intergovernmental: State Grants: Police Fiscal Management 33,548 33,548 Libraries 383,054 383,054 379,326 (3,728) State-Shared: Utility Taxes: Electric Utility Sales Tax 18,365,200 18,365,200 16,177,281 (2,187,919) Piped Natural Gas Sales Tax 1,221,700 1,221,700 1,028,488 (193,212) PEG Channel Support 95,446 95,446 68,966 (26,480) Telecommunications Sales Tax 3,251,100 3,251,100 3,189,618 (61,482) Video Programming/Telecommunications Service Sales Tax 2,869,875 2,869,875 2,904,915 35,040 Beer and Wine Tax 1,382,700 1,382,700 1,280,233 (102,467) State Reimbursements/Other: Court Fees 60,000 60,000 53,405 (6,595) Payment In Lieu of Taxes 451,746 508,407 515,365 6,958 Local Grants: PEG Channel Support 13,889 13,889 Libraries 1,362,347 1,362,347 1,356,847 (5,500) School Resource Officer Programs 1,064,051 1,064,051 1,061,054 (2,997) Environmental Programs 145,000 145,000 196,717 51,717 ABC Board Profit Distribution 3,423,000 3,423,000 3,773,528 350,528 Total Intergovernmental 34,075,219 34,131,880 32,033,180 (2,098,700)
Licenses and Permits: Privilege Licenses: Privilege Licenses-Current Year 18,500 18,500 19,088 588 Penalties on Privilege Licenses 300 300 273 (27) Privilege Licenses-Prior Years 150 150 3,692 3,542 Penalties on Prior Years' Licenses 50 50 652 602 Business Permits-Current Year 4,000 4,000 4,575 575 Motor Vehicle Licenses 1,050,000 1,050,000 876,241 (173,759) Other Licenses and Permits 345,384 345,384 346,944 1,560 Construction Permits: Building Permits 1,181,137 1,181,137 1,253,359 72,222 Electrical Permits 629,301 629,301 617,446 (11,855) Plumbing Permits 361,165 361,165 408,331 47,166 Mechanical Permits 667,613 667,613 750,829 83,216 Total Licenses and Permits 4,257,600 4,257,600 4,281,430 23,830
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-12 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Fines and Forfeitures: Parking Violations $ 950,000 $ 950,000 $ 931,759 $ (18,241) Library Fines 160,900 160,900 155,066 (5,834) City Code Violations 55,000 55,000 81,985 26,985 False Burglar Alarm Fines 1,064,550 1,064,550 851,067 (213,483) Total Fines and Forfeitures 2,230,450 2,230,450 2,019,877 (210,573)
Charges for Current Services: Planning: Preliminary Plan Reviews 168,275 168,275 150,472 (17,803) Final Plats/Declarations 20,500 20,500 13,711 (6,789) Rezoning Applications 80,910 80,910 61,037 (19,873) Other Planning Fees 27,398 27,398 43,839 16,441 Police Department: Police Department Services 44,798 44,798 59,266 14,468 Tow-In Services 34,482 34,482 21,959 (12,523) Off-Duty Employment 250,600 250,600 319,411 68,811 Contracted Services 309,700 309,700 309,700 Fire Department: Hazardous Material Fees 20,000 20,000 24,143 4,143 Fire Department Plan Reviews 75,000 75,000 70,358 (4,642) Fire Code Reinspections 30,000 30,000 36,900 6,900 Miscellaneous Permits 133,920 133,920 151,565 17,645 Inspections: Fire Code Reinspections 300 300 120 (180) Vacant Lot Cleaning Fees 182,000 182,000 185,058 3,058 Junked Auto Fees 14,000 14,000 14,933 933 Boarding Vacant Houses 30,000 30,000 22,119 (7,881) Housing Civil Penalties 50,000 50,000 20,914 (29,086) Re-inspection Fees 12,750 12,750 5,564 (7,186) Transportation: State Highway System: Signals, Signs and Lights 707,000 707,000 453,275 (253,725) Monthly Parking Fees 58,800 58,800 47,913 (10,887) Field Operations: Maintenance Service-Local Agencies 21,500 21,500 (21,500) State Highway System: Highway Maintenance 420,000 420,000 328,400 (91,600) Mowing Services 88,560 88,560 66,420 (22,140) Waste/Trash Collection 4,871,500 4,871,500 4,703,666 (167,834) ABC Recycling Fees 75,000 75,000 70,770 (4,230) Engineering and Building Maintenance: Plan Review/Water and Sewer/Roadways 140,000 140,000 145,853 5,853 Environmental Services: Hazardous Waste Disposal Fees 456,000 456,000 462,471 6,471 Parks and Recreation: Admissions and Charges 1,454,503 1,454,503 1,462,437 7,934 Rental and Lease 539,300 539,300 566,815 27,515 Catering Services 50 50 79 29
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-13 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Charges for Current Services (Continued): Concessions $ 121,425 $ 121,425 $ 77,197 $ (44,228) Fishing, Hunting and Boating Fees 39,800 39,800 40,500 700 Other Parks and Recreation Revenue 176,760 176,760 276,770 100,010 Library Fees 20,030 20,030 28,089 8,059 Interdepartmental Charges: Administrative Charges 4,545,032 4,545,032 4,574,056 29,024 Engineering Services 1,416,000 1,416,000 1,416,000 Rents 805,398 805,398 669,539 (135,859) Total Charges for Current Services 17,441,291 17,441,291 16,901,319 (539,972)
Miscellaneous: Sale of Assets 538,900 538,900 409,080 (129,820) Miscellaneous Receivables Revenue 32,000 32,000 8,091 (23,909) Donations and Private Contributions 110,600 110,600 82,254 (28,346) Contracted Construction Projects 1,107,910 1,154,378 1,334,880 180,502 Service Charges 2,000 2,000 (2,000) Disaster Recovery 617,739 617,739 Legal Restitutions 10,575 10,575 Other Revenue 398,610 614,103 994,413 380,310 Total Miscellaneous 2,190,020 2,451,981 3,457,032 1,005,051
Appropriated Fund Balance 10,329,547 16,795,127 (16,795,127)
Total Revenues 272,816,247 279,600,449 261,812,848 (17,787,601)
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-14 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Expenditures: General Government: Legislative: Governing Body $ 414,917 $ 415,817 $ 387,827 $ 27,990 Clerk of Governing Body 447,236 454,826 433,553 21,273 Elections 175,000 294,811 294,811 Community Relations 281,927 281,927 271,744 10,183 Total Legislative 1,319,080 1,447,381 1,387,935 59,446
Executive: City Manager 1,530,115 1,490,215 1,183,893 306,322 Internal Audit 403,536 403,536 389,051 14,485 Minority and Women's Business Enterprises 347,236 397,237 349,737 47,500 Total Executive 2,280,887 2,290,988 1,922,681 368,307
Human Relations 512,535 512,535 468,129 44,406
Human Resources: Administration 446,123 446,123 440,223 5,900 Employment 350,769 350,769 340,594 10,175 Benefits 138,217 138,217 130,820 7,397 HRIS/Compensation/Compliance 860,461 860,461 849,999 10,462 Learning and Development 1,059,447 1,059,447 990,902 68,545 Total Human Resources 2,855,017 2,855,017 2,752,538 102,479
Budget and Evaluation 795,998 795,998 779,719 16,279
Planning 1,899,740 2,247,163 1,727,454 519,709
Finance: Administration 771,902 771,902 682,028 89,874 Accounting 663,604 663,604 552,992 110,612 Financial Reporting 269,428 269,428 269,291 137 Purchasing and Supply 410,099 410,099 425,788 (15,689) Collections 1,371,051 1,371,051 1,088,324 282,727 Treasury Management 518,013 518,013 504,723 13,290 Central Contracting 106,484 106,484 124,460 (17,976) Total Finance 4,110,581 4,110,581 3,647,606 462,975
Legal 1,119,158 1,119,158 1,233,820 (114,662)
Communications 2,024,702 2,024,702 1,884,306 140,396
Information Technology: Administration 517,237 517,237 483,107 34,130 Geographic Information Services 606,923 606,923 564,115 42,808 IT - Operations 196,902 196,902 142,492 54,410 Application Development 624,320 624,320 523,939 100,381 Enterprise Business Solutions 1,805,416 1,805,416 1,955,827 (150,411) Total Management Information Systems 3,750,798 3,750,798 3,669,480 81,318
Other General Government: NC Metropolitan Coalition 15,710 15,710 16,179 (469) Faith Action ID 15,000 15,000 15,000 Nondepartmental 884,990 7,072,136 719,284 6,352,852 Total Other General Government 915,700 7,102,846 750,463 6,352,383
Total General Government 21,584,196 28,257,167 20,224,131 8,033,036
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-15 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Public Safety: Police: Administration $ 2,643,312 $ 2,823,314 $ 3,116,976 $ (293,662) Resource Management 9,326,250 9,185,752 8,593,150 592,602 Information Services 2,781,062 2,781,062 2,668,218 112,844 Field Operations 36,721,760 36,706,095 33,559,082 3,147,013 Criminal Investigations 9,424,481 9,411,949 9,322,728 89,221 Special Operations 2,867,999 2,882,999 3,075,614 (192,615) Investigative Support 2,877,468 2,890,003 2,666,146 223,857 Vice/Narcotics 3,152,691 3,152,691 3,053,308 99,383 Professional Standards 1,075,306 1,075,306 1,071,223 4,083 Organizational Development 1,248,815 1,248,815 3,290,287 (2,041,472) IT Public Safety 2,972,685 12,672 60 12,612 Total Police 75,091,829 72,170,658 70,416,792 1,753,866
Fire: Administration 1,784,954 1,804,704 1,716,403 88,301 Training 1,200,804 1,200,804 1,722,903 (522,099) Fire Prevention 1,849,253 1,849,253 1,691,329 157,924 Emergency Services 38,827,047 39,043,953 37,593,911 1,450,042 Regulatory/Fleet Repair Service 4,794,109 4,768,197 4,867,074 (98,877) Stations and Buildings 365,053 754,554 723,397 31,157 Total Fire 48,821,220 49,421,465 48,315,017 1,106,448
Inspections: Building Inspections 2,999,675 2,994,676 2,978,008 16,668 Code Compliance 1,649,115 1,649,115 1,399,203 249,912 Total Inspections 4,648,790 4,643,791 4,377,211 266,580
Total Public Safety 128,561,839 126,235,914 123,109,020 3,126,894
Transportation: Administration 1,537,777 1,527,277 1,393,448 133,829 Traffic Operations 3,484,637 3,541,605 3,323,444 218,161 Traffic Engineering 4,560,579 4,560,579 4,582,159 (21,580) Transportation Planning 278,812 278,812 281,736 (2,924) Galyon Depot 353,969 343,012 10,957 Total Transportation 9,861,805 10,262,242 9,923,799 338,443
Engineering and Building Maintenance: Administration 380,284 386,784 386,659 125 Engineering 4,334,239 4,318,290 4,081,005 237,285 Business and Technology 724,918 716,668 708,465 8,203 Facilities Engineering 428,547 437,547 368,178 69,369 Central City Maintenance 2,587,484 3,503,883 3,051,376 452,507 Building Maintenance 5,733,975 6,214,819 5,920,383 294,436 Energy 4,013,903 1,005,956 754,380 251,576 Franchise Administration 37,876 37,876 34,952 2,924 Total Engineering and Building Maintenance 18,241,226 16,621,823 15,305,398 1,316,425
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-16 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Field Operations: Administration $ 3,804,739 $ 3,740,105 $ 3,623,227 $ 116,878 Materials Recovery Facility 59,144 78,780 43,621 35,159 Stormwater Utility Fee 1,960,104 1,960,104 1,962,082 (1,978) Solid Waste Collections 17,851,543 17,944,040 17,746,756 197,284 Streets - Stormwater Maintenance 5,960,097 5,960,097 5,624,674 335,423 Right of Way Maintenance 5,358,238 5,210,748 4,937,280 273,468 Environmental Services 1,218,506 1,218,506 1,014,420 204,086 Total Field Operations 36,212,371 36,112,380 34,952,060 1,160,320
Culture and Recreation: Parks and Recreation: Administration 2,250,092 2,260,292 2,085,450 174,842 Planning 186,132 194,132 149,070 45,062 Gillespie Golf Course 482,898 558,298 554,695 3,603 Greensboro Sportsplex 498,966 518,330 478,534 39,796 City Arts 631,342 668,428 642,125 26,303 Program and Community Services 632,006 661,708 660,257 1,451 Neighborhood Playgrounds and Centers 1,953,850 2,203,766 2,217,779 (14,013) Swimming Pools 292,863 292,863 263,761 29,102 Memorial Stadium 2,360 2,360 2,156 204 Hester Park 335,023 355,023 305,748 49,275 Country Park 374,198 369,198 347,024 22,174 Jaycee Park 317,843 317,843 268,114 49,729 Athletics 621,005 583,805 517,501 66,304 Turf/Athletic Field Maintenance 1,134,162 1,184,062 1,065,876 118,186 Regional Parks 103,746 101,746 42,886 58,860 Lake Wardens 575,210 580,721 619,663 (38,942) Barber Park 401,135 401,135 378,066 23,069 Equipment Maintenance 143,289 143,289 141,122 2,167 Development and Maintenance 1,401,239 1,393,239 1,285,782 107,457 Landscape and Beautification 1,129,753 1,122,843 1,079,142 43,701 Carolyn Allen Park 506,717 495,117 440,194 54,923 Price Park 45,702 45,702 15,865 29,837 Keeley Park Operations 451,506 426,506 414,241 12,265 Trails and Greenways 308,101 308,101 292,924 15,177 LeBauer Park 21,393 39,893 15,715 24,178 Tennis 132,270 132,270 127,167 5,103 Arts Center 129,005 129,005 137,802 (8,797) Simkins Indoor Sports Pavilion 129,729 111,439 88,786 22,653 Senior Programs 331,002 376,337 409,060 (32,723) Bryan Park Operations 851,067 835,493 844,004 (8,511) Youth First 335,543 343,088 360,017 (16,929) Volunteer Services 76,862 76,862 67,776 9,086 Total Parks and Recreation 16,786,009 17,232,894 16,318,302 914,592
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-17 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative) Library: Administration $ 2,711,039 $ 2,711,039 $ 2,219,721 $ 491,318 Main Library 1,826,698 1,826,698 1,722,754 103,944 Extension Services 6,063 6,063 5,675 388 Collection Inventory 926,904 926,904 946,513 (19,609) Benjamin Branch Library 319,299 338,937 251,366 87,571 Northeast Branch Library 385,726 428,614 395,001 33,613 Vance H. Chavis Branch Library 411,340 423,672 410,254 13,418 Hemphill Branch Library 435,215 466,250 449,793 16,457 Glenwood Branch Library 325,988 344,838 277,184 67,654 Kathleen Clay Edwards Branch Library 578,812 620,715 560,829 59,886 McGirt-Horton Branch Library 481,622 513,037 395,760 117,277 Historical Museum 915,618 896,548 787,511 109,037 Total Library 9,324,324 9,503,315 8,422,361 1,080,954
Other Culture and Recreation: Greensboro Science Center 1,085,000 1,085,000 1,085,000 Greensboro Sports Commission 85,000 85,000 85,000 Fun Fourth - Grassroots 25,000 25,000 22,478 2,522 Children's Museum 100,000 100,000 100,000 Blandwood Mansion 20,000 20,000 20,000 Festival of Lights 15,750 25,750 25,819 (69) Downtown Greensboro Parks, Inc. 350,000 350,000 350,000 Public Access - GCTV 193,985 193,985 142,485 51,500 Total Other Culture and Recreation 1,874,735 1,884,735 1,830,782 53,953
Total Culture and Recreation 27,985,068 28,620,944 26,571,445 2,049,499
Neighborhood Development Greensboro Housing Authority 50,000 106,661 106,660 1 Architectural Salvage 14,850 14,850 14,850 Total Neighborhood Development 64,850 121,511 121,510 1
Economic Opportunity: Economic Development 1,623,613 1,623,550 780,153 843,397 Chamber of Commerce 184,235 184,235 175,610 8,625 Total Economic Opportunity 1,807,848 1,807,785 955,763 852,022
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-18 Exhibit A-7 General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance - Budget and Actual For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Variance with Final Budget- Original Final Positive Budget Budget Actual (Negative)
Intergovernmental: Guilford County: Tax Collections $ 1,314,500 $ 889,500 $ 924,277 $ (34,777) Animal Shelter and Animal Control 588,931 588,931 581,077 7,854 Environmental Health Control 5,500 5,500 5,500 State of NC RMV Collections 425,000 424,316 684 Educational Access Guilford County Schools 65,200 65,200 45,049 20,151 Piedmont Triad Regional Council 59,327 59,327 58,968 359 National Guard Armory 10,500 10,500 9,000 1,500 Total Intergovernmental 2,043,958 2,043,958 2,042,687 1,271
Total Expenditures 246,363,161 250,083,724 233,205,813 16,877,911
Excess of Revenues Over Expenditures 26,453,086 29,516,725 28,607,035 (909,690)
Other Financing Sources (Uses): Transfers In: State Highway Allocation Fund 5,646,000 5,646,000 5,346,000 (300,000) Street Improvements Bond Fund 720,000 720,000 720,000 Information Systems Fund 53,000 53,000 53,000 Total Transfers In 6,419,000 6,419,000 6,119,000 (300,000)
Transfers Out: Cemetery Operating Fund 437,797 437,797 437,797 State and Federal Grants Fund 3,626 3,626 Debt Service Fund 21,238,110 21,238,110 21,238,110 General Capital Improvements Fund 1,700,000 1,800,000 1,800,000 War Memorial Coliseum Fund 2,700,000 2,700,000 2,700,000 Solid Waste Management Fund 1,897,393 1,897,393 1,897,393 Guilford Metro Communications Fund 4,898,786 7,858,799 7,858,799 Total Transfers Out 32,872,086 35,935,725 35,935,725
Total Other Financing Sources (Uses) (26,453,086) (29,516,725) (29,816,725) (300,000)
Excess of Revenues and Other Financing Sources Under Expenditures and Other Financing Uses $ $ (1,209,690) (1,209,690)
Fund Balance - July 1 77,173,159 77,173,159
Prior Period Restatement (6,365,576) (6,365,576)
Fund Balance - July 1, (restated) 70,807,583 70,807,583
Fund Balance - June 30 $ 69,597,893 $ 69,597,893
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-19 Exhibit A-8 Statement of Net Position Proprietary Funds June 30, 2017
Business-Type Activities - Enterprise Funds Solid Water Stormwater War Memorial Waste Resources Management Coliseum Management ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 51,777,414 $ 9,502,343 $ 7,841,803 $ 10,221,649 Receivables (Net): Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 15,183,219 781,302 623,570 481,064 Intergovernmental 573,995 58,241 97,643 101,731 Interest 154,201 24,226 19,359 22,594 Inventories 4,470,279 62,903 3,911 Miscellaneous 1,017 147,936 Total Current Assets 72,160,125 10,366,112 8,793,214 10,830,949 Noncurrent Assets: Restricted: Cash and Cash Equivalents/ Investments 69,046,389 8,401,109 3,862,220 1,931,220 Receivables (Net): Accounts, Notes and Mortgages Assessments 574,241 Intergovernmental 573,111 172,877 Interest 157,668 18,629 4,125 Assets Held for Resale Self-Funded Retention Deposits Long-Term Note Receivable Capital Assets: Non-Depreciable: Land 20,124,268 1,040,756 17,501,666 5,953,501 Construction in Progress 61,337,563 1,789,967 3,978,209 Intangible Assets: Easements 21,761,534 1,446,291 Depreciable/Amortizable: Land Improvements 25,630,352 3,730,363 2,686,423 17,656,208 Buildings 190,269,570 4,127 97,458,234 7,809,422 Improvements Other than Buildings 9,471,336 330,599 21,327 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 63,058,421 193,309 10,888,314 1,310,698 Infrastructure 602,159,989 115,289,547 Less Accumulated Depreciation (378,005,791) (66,806,618) (49,938,869) (17,432,533) Intangible Assets: Software and Licenses 5,030,452 377,548 Water Rights 89,147,139 Less Accumulated Amortization (16,928,575) (338,291) Total Noncurrent Assets 763,407,667 65,146,737 86,939,673 17,253,968 Total Assets 835,567,792 75,512,849 95,732,887 28,084,917
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES Unamortized Bond Refunding Charges 3,113,089 Pension Deferrals 3,151,885 597,291 1,212,692 335,388 Current Year Pension Contributions 973,784 184,535 374,665 103,619 Total Deferred Outflows of Resources 7,238,758 781,826 1,587,357 439,007
(1) After internal receivables and payables have been eliminated.
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-20 Exhibit A-8
Other Enterprise (1) Internal Fund Totals Service Funds
$ 1,588,162 $ 80,931,371 $ 47,842,444
31,622 17,100,777 810,583 6,730 838,340 1,011,851 6,603 226,983 115,840 4,537,093 827,752 148,953 1,633,117 103,783,517 50,608,470
83,240,938
574,241 745,988 1,799 182,221 600,000 16,461,099 265,319 265,319
6,176,752 50,796,943 1,840,011 225,460 67,331,199 535,028
23,207,825
56,940 49,760,286 974,506 20,016,856 315,558,209 3,135,089 165,221 9,988,483 94,000 1,254,623 76,705,365 157,993,913 717,449,536 (15,026,467) (527,210,278) (106,633,498)
49,218 5,457,218 830,969 89,147,139 (49,218) (17,316,084) (814,204) 13,136,503 945,884,548 75,016,913 14,769,620 1,049,668,065 125,625,383
3,113,089 111,796 5,409,052 2,099,400 34,540 1,671,143 648,616 146,336 10,193,284 2,748,016
E-21 Exhibit A-8
Statement of Net Position (continued) Proprietary Funds June 30, 2017
Enterprise Funds Solid Water Stormwater War Memorial Waste Resources Management Coliseum Management LIABILITIES Current Liabilities: Accounts Payable$ 1,609,456 $ 3,379 $ 6,685,752 $ 33,764 Contracts/Retainage Payable 315,129 99,789 458,903 Intergovernmental Payable 3,422 Unearned Revenues 753,819 General Obligation Bonds Payable Revenue Bonds Payable 16,389,479 Revenue BANs Payable 41,338,376 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 715,000 Lease-Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 12,485,337 Accrued Landfill Liability 500,000 Accrued Pollution Remediation Liability 427,534 Interest Payable 614,612 7,414 9,375 Customer Deposits Payable 4,034,291 406,750 Compensated Absences Payable 913,404 203,755 139,346 99,989 Total Current Liabilities 65,214,747 613,884 20,174,879 2,244,565 Noncurrent Liabilities: Payable from Restricted Assets: Contracts/Retainage Payable 5,719,128 948,097 315,773 General Obligation Bonds Payable Revenue Bonds Payable 202,872,735 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 1,535,000 Lease-Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 530,212 Accrued Landfill Liability 25,554,129 Accrued Pollution Remediation Liability 1,111,536 Compensated Absences Payable 296,858 59,885 322,838 68,560 Other Postemployment Benefits Payable 1,090,559 206,602 250,399 116,081 Net Pension Liability 4,921,501 932,638 1,893,554 523,691 Total Noncurrent Liabilities 214,900,781 2,147,222 3,312,776 28,908,997 Total Liabilities 280,115,528 2,761,106 23,487,655 31,153,562
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Pension Deferrals 313,001 59,314 120,427 33,306
NET POSITION Net Investment in Capital Assets 435,568,757 56,726,999 69,889,027 13,068,623 Restricted for: Capital Projects 64,632,281 7,471,641 3,719,324 1,935,345 Assets Held for Resale Self-Funded Retention Deposits Unrestricted 62,176,983 9,275,615 103,811 (17,666,912) Total Net Position $ 562,378,021 $ 73,474,255 $ 73,712,162 $ (2,662,944)
(1) After internal receivables and payables have been eliminated.
E-22 Exhibit A-8
Other Enterprise (1) Internal Fund Totals Service Funds
$ 6,726 $ 8,339,077 $ 15,756,003 5,125 5,125 878,946 25,833 3,422 753,819 397,334 16,389,479 41,338,376 715,000
12,485,337 2,395,102 500,000 427,534 631,401 5,691 51,963 4,493,004 46,051 29,589 1,386,083 569,964 93,403 88,341,478 19,195,978
6,982,998 924,345 202,872,735 1,535,000
530,212 16,170,603 25,554,129 1,111,536 30,885 779,026 379,694 38,672 1,702,313 726,409 174,564 8,445,948 3,278,100 244,121 249,513,897 21,479,151 337,524 337,855,375 40,675,129
11,102 537,150 208,481
12,869,385 588,122,791 38,068,430
1,799 77,760,390 600,000 16,461,099 1,696,146 55,585,643 32,360,260 $ 14,567,330 $ 721,468,824 $ 87,489,789
E-23 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-24 Exhibit A-9
City of Greensboro Reconciliation of the Statement of Net Position-Proprietary Funds To the Statement of Net Position June 30, 2017
Net position - proprietary funds $ 721,468,824
Amounts reported for business-type activities in the statement of net position are different because:
Internal service funds 7,326,235
Net position of business-type activities $ 728,795,059
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-25 Exhibit A-10 Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position Proprietary Funds For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Business-Type Activities - Enterprise Funds Solid Water Stormwater War Memorial Waste Resources Management Coliseum Management Operating Revenues: Charges for Current Services $ 110,489,306 $ 9,686,669 $ 23,582,188 $ 12,616,110 Other Operating Revenues 2,267,780 39,365 1,274,410 114,464 Total Operating Revenues 112,757,086 9,726,034 24,856,598 12,730,574
Operating Expenses: Personal Services 15,205,002 2,907,513 5,892,108 1,624,145 Fringe Benefits 7,192,142 1,551,974 1,777,741 765,150 Maintenance and Operations 38,430,404 2,950,016 21,474,430 10,625,763 Claims and Expenses Depreciation/Amortization 25,846,982 1,828,457 3,217,207 510,433 Total Operating Expenses 86,674,530 9,237,960 32,361,486 13,525,491
Operating Income (Loss) 26,082,556 488,074 (7,504,888) (794,917)
Nonoperating Revenues (Expenses): Investment Income 1,180,840 150,500 78,575 101,144 Net Decrease in the Fair Value of Investments (543,807) (76,899) (31,782) (43,637) Total Investment Income 637,033 73,601 46,793 57,507
Miscellaneous Nonoperating Revenue 4,067 3,569,721 196 Interest Expense (3,957,978) (149,691) (143,667) Refunds and Recoveries 239,475 Inventory Gain (Loss) (134,532) 499 (669) Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Capital Assets (223,169) (87,416) Amortization of Underwriters' Expense (938,545) Miscellaneous Nonoperating Expense (356,773) (2,963) Total Nonoperating Revenues (Expenses) (4,730,422) 73,601 3,379,906 (89,596)
Income (Loss) Before Contributions and Transfers 21,352,134 561,675 (4,124,982) (884,513)
Capital Contributions 2,915,781 963,342 89,393
Transfers In 12,965,798 1,897,393 Transfers Out (7,500) Change in Net Position 24,267,915 1,517,517 8,930,209 1,012,880
Net Position - July 1 538,110,106 71,956,738 64,781,953 (3,675,824)
Net Position - June 30 $ 562,378,021 $ 73,474,255 $ 73,712,162 $ (2,662,944)
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-26 Exhibit A-10
Other Enterprise Internal Fund Totals Service Funds
$ 2,399,536 $ 158,773,809 $ 84,715,365 344,988 4,041,007 4,508,975 2,744,524 162,814,816 89,224,340
537,905 26,166,673 10,195,115 240,522 11,527,529 4,450,570 1,549,607 75,030,220 22,095,142 48,071,374 581,854 31,984,933 12,715,496 2,909,888 144,709,355 97,527,697
(165,364) 18,105,461 (8,303,357)
34,690 34,690 1,545,749 338,279
(16,859) (712,984) (206,063) 17,831 17,831 832,765 132,216
3,573,984 650,163 (4,251,336) (580,461) 239,475 (134,702) 29,179 (24,100) (334,685) 721,534 (938,545) (20,097) (379,833) (26,366) (1,392,877) 952,631
(191,730) 16,712,584 (7,350,726)
3,968,516 509,033
14,863,191 7,914,302 (7,500) (7,500) (115,138) (191,730) 35,536,791 957,471
14,759,060 685,932,033 86,532,318
$ 14,567,330 $ 721,468,824 $ 87,489,789
E-27 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-28 Exhibit A-11
City of Greensboro Reconciliation of the Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position-Proprietary Funds To the Statement of Activities For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Amounts reported for business-type activities in the statement of activities are different because:
Net change in fund balances----total proprietary funds. $ 35,536,791
Internal service funds are used by management to charge the costs of fleet management and management information systems to individual funds. The net revenue (loss) of certain activities of internal service funds is reported with business-type activities. 52,042
Change in net position of business-type activities $ 35,588,833
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-29 Exhibit A-12
Statement of Cash Flows Proprietary Funds For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Business-Type Activities - Enterprise Funds Solid Water Stormwater War Memorial Waste Resources Management Coliseum Management Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Receipts from Customers $ 109,787,150 $ 9,652,848 $ 23,642,374 $ 13,442,863 Payments to Suppliers (38,193,622) (2,532,301) (21,519,796) (10,252,054) Payments to Employees (21,514,858) (4,301,486) (7,544,853) (2,308,137) Other Receipts 2,511,322 39,365 4,844,130 304,651 Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities 52,589,992 2,858,426 (578,145) 1,187,323
Cash Flows from Noncapital Financing Activities: Subsidies and Transfers In 12,965,798 1,897,393 Subsidies and Transfers Out (7,500) Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Noncapital Financing Activities (7,500) 12,965,798 1,897,393
Cash Flows from Capital and Related Financing Activities: Capital Debt Issued 22,841,675 13,634 Acquisition and Construction of Capital Assets (51,002,227) (2,173,835) (9,401,178) (301,227) Proceeds from Sale of Capital Assets 11,073 Principal Paid on Capital Debt (13,640,000) (302,618) (680,000) Interest and Fiscal Charges Paid on Capital Debt (8,488,796) (150,761) (149,464) Net Cash Used for Capital and Related Financing Activities (50,278,275) (2,173,835) (9,840,923) (1,130,691)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Investment Income 602,115 70,502 42,829 52,207 Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities 602,115 70,502 42,829 52,207
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 2,913,832 747,593 2,589,559 2,006,232
Balances - July 1 117,909,971 17,155,859 9,114,464 10,146,637 Balances - June 30 $ 120,823,803 $ 17,903,452 $ 11,704,023 $ 12,152,869
Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - Current $ 51,777,414 $ 9,502,343 $ 7,841,803 $ 10,221,649 Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - Restricted 69,046,389 8,401,109 3,862,220 1,931,220 Total Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - June 30$ 120,823,803 $ 17,903,452 $ 11,704,023 $ 12,152,869
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-30 Exhibit A-12
Other Enterprise Internal Fund Totals Service Funds
$ 2,392,928 $ 158,918,163 $ 82,601,387 (2,243,126) (74,740,899) (69,150,225) (746,157) (36,415,491) (14,027,542) 344,988 8,044,456 5,159,138 (251,367) 55,806,229 4,582,758
14,863,191 7,914,302 (7,500) (115,138)
14,855,691 7,799,164
22,855,309 (2,431,505) (65,309,972) (11,377,106) 11,073 1,058,207 (14,622,618) (834,498) (20,097) (8,809,118) (401,923)
(2,451,602) (65,875,326) (11,555,320)
18,618 18,618 786,271 115,471 18,618 18,618 786,271 115,471
(2,684,351) 5,572,865 942,073
4,272,513 158,599,444 46,900,371 $ 1,588,162 $ 164,172,309 $ 47,842,444
$ 1,588,162 $ 80,931,371 $ 47,842,444 83,240,938 $ 1,588,162 $ 164,172,309 $ 47,842,444
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-31 Exhibit A-12
Statement of Cash Flows Proprietary Funds For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Business-Type Activities - Enterprise Funds Solid Water Stormwater War Memorial Waste (continued) Resources Management Coliseum Management
Reconciliation of Operating Income (Loss) to Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities: Operating Income (Loss) $ 26,082,556 $ 488,074 $ (7,504,888) $ (794,917) Adjustments to Reconcile Operating Income (Loss) to Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities: Depreciation/Amortization 25,846,982 1,828,457 3,217,207 510,433 Change in Assets, Deferred Outflows, Deferred Inflows and Liabilities: (Increase) Decrease in Receivables (702,156) (33,821) (60,937) 1,016,744 (Increase) Decrease in Inventories (20,758) (19,989) 1,327 (Increase) Decrease in Intergovernmental Receivables 729,811 15,160 (260,097) 638 Decrease in Miscellaneous Assets 229,227 1,400 Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable (472,271) 402,555 5,492 (68,736) Decrease in Contracts/Retainage Payable Increase in Landfill Liability 452,427 Increase in Deferred Outflows of Resources -Pensions (3,181,119) (600,206) (1,219,487) (338,215) Decrease in Deferred Inflows of Resources -Pensions (317,733) (61,965) (125,223) (33,999) Increase in Net Pension Obligation 3,798,070 716,623 1,456,016 403,811 Increase in Accrued OPEB Actuarial Liability 447,630 82,978 47,475 Increase (Decrease) in Compensated Absences Payable (33,888) 20,571 29,673 2,086 Decrease in Pollution Remediation Liability (13,347) Decrease in Intergovernmental Payable (15,983) Increase in Customer Deposits Payable 169,326 Increase (Decrease) in Miscellaneous Payable 121,123 Increase (Decrease) in Other Receipts (Disbursements) 243,542 3,569,721 196 Total Adjustments 26,507,436 2,370,352 6,926,743 1,982,240
Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities $ 52,589,992 $ 2,858,426 $ (578,145) $ 1,187,323
Noncash Investing, Capital and Financing Activities: Lease-Purchase and Other Capital Assets $ $ $ $ Principal Paid by Other Funds on Debt Obligations Imputed Capitalized Interest 1,547,136 Donated Assets 2,915,781 963,342 89,393 Total Noncash Investing, Capital and Financing Activities $ 4,462,917 $ 963,342 $ 89,393 $
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-32 Exhibit A-12
Other Enterprise Internal Fund Totals Service Funds
$ (165,364) $ 18,105,461 $ (8,303,357)
581,854 31,984,933 12,715,496
3,073 3,073 222,903 (387,457) (39,420) 30,737 5,714 5,714 491,226 (17,934) 230,627 3,027,098 (3,007) (3,007) (135,967) (1,585,340) (696,226) (696,226) (1,149) 452,427 (112,649) (5,451,676) (2,136,012) (11,393) (550,313) (200,191) 134,497 6,509,017 2,550,194 15,742 15,742 593,825 309,836 (2,479) (2,479) 15,963 44,652 (13,347) (15,983) 169,326 (1,129) (1,129) 119,994 3,813,459 (1,463,815) (86,003) 37,700,768 12,886,115
$ (251,367) $ 55,806,229 $ 4,582,758
$ $ $ 4,426,420 (2,113,978) 1,547,136 3,968,516 $ $ 5,515,652 $ 2,312,442
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-33 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-34 Fiduciary Funds
Law Enforcment Officers’ Special Separation Allowance (LEOSSA) Pension Benefit Trust
This fund was established to account for special separation (pension) benefits, payable semi-monthly, to qualified law enforcement officers. The City is required to provide such benefits until each qualified law enforcement officer attains age 62. The City’s contribution to this fund has been actuarially determined and will be funded by fringe benefit charges based on active police officers’ salaries.
Other Postemployment Benefit (OPEB) Trust
This fund was established to account for contributions held in trust to pay certain health and life benefits to employees following retirement, up to age 65.
E-35 Exhibit A-13
City of Greensboro Statement of Fiduciary Net Position Fiduciary Funds June 30, 2017
LEOSSA Other Pension Postemployment Benefit Benefit (OPEB) Trust Trust ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments, Restricted for: Law Enforcement Officers' Special Separation Allowance (LEOSSA) Benefits: Demand Deposits $ 5,000 Mutual Funds: NC Short Term Investment Fund 6,367,475
Other Postemployment Benefits (OPEB): Money Market Funds $ 283 Mutual Funds: NC OPEB Equity Index Fund 10,928,886 NC OPEB Bond Index Fund 6,246,430 NC Short Term Investment Fund 504,323
Contributions Receivable 12,212
Total Assets 6,372,475 17,692,134
LIABILITIES Benefits Payable 12,212 Payable for Investments Purchased 300,000
Total Liabilities 312,212
Net Position Restricted for: Pension Benefit - LEOSSA $ 6,372,475 Net Position Restricted for: Other Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions $ 17,379,922
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-36 Exhibit A-14
City of Greensboro Statement of Changes in Fiduciary Net Position Fiduciary Funds For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
LEOSSA Other Pension Postemployment Benefit Benefit (OPEB) Trust Trust
ADDITIONS Employer Contributions $ 2,528,862 $ 5,155,834 Employee Contributions 2,293,368
Interest Earnings: Investment Income 57,296 262,324 Net Increase (Decrease) in the Fair Value of Investments (18,125) 1,455,224 Total Investment Income 39,171 1,717,548
Total Additions 2,568,033 9,166,750
DEDUCTIONS Benefits Paid 2,559,522 6,949,203 Administrative Expenses 1,612 19,789 Total Deductions 2,561,134 6,968,992
Change in Net Position 6,899 2,197,758
Net Position Restricted for LEOSSA - July 1 Prior Period Restatement 6,365,576 Net Position Restricted for LEOSSA - July 1, (restated) 6,365,576
Net Position Restricted for LEOSSA - June 30 $ 6,372,475
Net Position Restricted for OPEB Other Than Pensions - July 1 15,182,164 Net Position Restricted for OPEB Other Than Pensions - June 30 $ 17,379,922
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
E-37 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-38 Exhibit A-15
Statement of Net Position Component Units June 30, 2017 Greensboro Greensboro Greensboro Greensboro Total Housing Dev. Redevelopment Transit ABC Component ASSETS Partnership Commission Authority Board Units Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 62,478 $ 31,149 $ 6,221,534 $ 3,685,112 $ 10,000,273 Receivables, Net Taxes 535,095 535,095 Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 9,932 5,810 15,742 Intergovernmental 33,321 4,552,300 4,585,621 Interest 929,755 929,755 Inventories 414,014 3,046,984 3,460,998 Miscellaneous 108,000 141,694 249,694 Assets Held for Resale 2,297,711 3,096,890 5,394,601 Long-Term Note Receivable 2,297,461 10,231,950 12,529,411 Restricted Assets: Temporarily Restricted: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments 269,157 269,157 Receivables, (Net): Intergovernmental 31,875 31,875 Capital Assets: Non-Depreciable: Land 2,923,192 1,784,586 4,707,778 Construction in Progress 93,577 93,577 Depreciable: Land Improvements 95,355 95,355 Accumulated Depreciation (15,798) (15,798) Buildings 37,760,053 4,775,422 42,535,475 Accumulated Depreciation (10,068,806) (1,114,040) (11,182,846) Improvements Other than Buildings 9,805 515,719 525,524 Accumulated Depreciation (2,697) (417,108) (419,805) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 24,184,463 2,462,237 26,646,700 Accumulated Depreciation (14,364,265) (1,761,632) (16,125,897) Intangible Asset - Software and Licenses 123,880 123,880 Accumulated Amortization (17,697) (17,697) Total Assets 2,360,189 5,566,821 63,916,674 13,124,784 84,968,468 DEFERRED OUTFLOW OF RESOURCES Current Year Pension Contributions 182,569 182,569 Pension Deferrals 525,841 525,841 Total Deferred Outflow of Resources 708,410 708,410
LIABILITIES Accounts Payable 49,106 2,631,377 2,680,483 Contracts/Retainage Payable 1,350,840 1,350,840 Note Payable 123,900 123,900 Due to Primary Government 827,107 827,107 Miscellaneous 77,631 77,631 Liabilities Payable from Restricted Assets: Contracts/Retainage Payable 22,817 22,817 Noncurrent Liabilities: Due Within One Year: Compensated Absences 51,341 51,341 Due in More Than One Year: Note Payable 2,358,211 1,885,754 4,243,965 Compensated Absences 1,890 1,890 Unearned Revenue 2,297,461 2,297,461 Miscellaneous 411,190 411,190 Net Pension Obligation 864,003 864,003 Total Liabilities 2,358,211 2,297,461 1,475,994 6,820,962 12,952,628
NET POSITION Net Investment in Capital Assets 40,721,062 4,235,530 44,956,592 Restricted for: Assets Held for Resale 3,096,890 3,096,890 Capital Projects 278,215 278,215 Neighborhood Development 1,978 141,321 143,299 Greensboro ABC Board Working Capital 1,383,112 1,383,112 Unrestricted 31,149 21,441,403 1,393,590 22,866,142 Total Net Position $ 1,978 $ 3,269,360 $ 62,440,680 $ 7,012,232 $ 72,724,250
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-39 Exhibit A-16
Statement of Activities Component Units For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2017
Program Revenues Operating Capital Charges for Grants and Grants and Expenses Services Contributions Contributions
Greensboro Housing Dev. Partnership Governmental Activities: Neighborhood Development $ 27,978 $ 15,907 $ $
Total Greensboro Housing Dev. Partnership 27,978 15,907
Greensboro Redevelopment Commission Governmental Activities: Redevelopment Commission Operations 862,466 1,025,023 320,173
Total Greensboro Redevelopment Commission 862,466 1,025,023 320,173
Greensboro Transit Authority Business -Type Activities: Transit Operations 24,199,180 2,332,549 911,203 6,682,752
Total Greensboro Transit Authority 24,199,180 2,332,549 911,203 6,682,752
Greensboro ABC Board Business -Type Activities: ABC Board Operations 35,554,801 35,954,801
Total Greensboro ABC Board 35,554,801 35,954,801
Total $ 60,644,425 $ 38,303,257 $ 1,936,226 $ 7,002,925
General Revenues: Taxes: Property Tax Motor Vehicle Tax Investment Income Miscellaneous
Total General Revenues
Change in Net Position
Net Position - July 1
Net Position - June 30
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement. E-40 Exhibit A-16
Net (Expenses) Revenue and Changes in Net Position Greensboro Greensboro Greensboro Greensboro Housing Dev. Redevelopment Transit ABC Partnership Commission Authority Board Totals
$ (12,071) $ $ $ $ (12,071)
(12,071) (12,071)
482,730 482,730
482,730 482,730
(14,272,676) (14,272,676)
(14,272,676) (14,272,676)
400,000 400,000
400,000 400,000
(12,071) 482,730 (14,272,676) 400,000 (13,402,017)
9,066,445 9,066,445 1,119,392 1,119,392 3 3 949,918 949,921 5,460 5,460 5,460
3 3 11,141,215 11,141,218
(12,071) 482,733 (3,131,461) 400,000 (2,260,799)
14,049 14,049 2,786,627 65,572,141 6,612,232 74,985,049
$ 1,978 $ 3,269,360 $ 62,440,680 $ 7,012,232 $ 72,724,250
E-41 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-42 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CITY OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
JUNE 30, 2017
I. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The accounting policies of the City of Greensboro (City) and its component units conform to US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) as applicable to governmental units. The Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) is the accepted standard-setting body for establishing governmental accounting and financial reporting principles. The following is a summary of the more significant accounting policies of the City:
A. The Financial Reporting Entity
The City is a municipal corporation governed by an elected Mayor and eight–member Council. As required by GAAP, these financial statements present the City (the primary government) and its component units (entities for which the City is considered to be financially accountable). Criteria used to establish financial accountability include appointment of a voting majority of the component unit’s governing board and imposition of will or a financial benefit/burden relationship, fiscal dependency or other significant operational and financial relationships.
1. Blended Component Unit
Blended component units, although legally separate entities, are, in substance, part of the City’s operation. Financial amounts from these units are combined with amounts of the primary government.
The Greensboro Center City Corporation (GCCC) assists the City in financing, acquiring and constructing public facilities and in purchasing equipment. The sole purpose of the GCCC is to provide a funding source for City assets, lease the assets to the City and to use the lease payments to repay the debt. The corporation has no other operations. The GCCC’s twelve member governing board is appointed by the Mayor. A financial burden exists, as the City is required to transfer funds to the GCCC in an amount sufficient to pay the scheduled debt service on GCCC certificates of participation. The GCCC’s cash and debt are considered with assets of the War Memorial Coliseum Enterprise Fund and general government liabilities for financial statement purposes.
2. Discretely Presented Component Units
The component unit column in the basic financial statements includes the financial data of the City’s other component units. The units are reported in a separate column to emphasize that they are legally separate from the City. Separate statements of net position and activities for the component units are presented in Exhibits A-15 and A-16.
Greensboro Housing Development Partnership, Inc (GHDP) provides first-time buyers, with low to moderate income, affordable financing. GHDP also serves as a conduit to sell surplus land to builders to develop affordable housing for City citizens. The City appoints the voting majority of the Board and guarantees support for any deficits for certain programs and loan obligations. The City also influences the operations of the GHDP by providing loan initiatives and rehabilitation of properties. Related transactions of this partnership are reflected in the City records in a Special Revenue Fund.
The Greensboro Redevelopment Commission (Commission) conducts studies, formulates plans, purchases and sells properties and oversees redevelopment projects in the City. The Commission performs legislative duties such as defining a redevelopment area and carries out delegated activities, subject to the consent, approval and policies of the City. The governing board is composed of five residents of the City who are appointed by City Council. No property transactions may be taken without City approval. City Council must agree before any expenditures or contracts are made by the board or any debt entered into for which the City could be liable. Budgets for the Commission are set by City Council and any changes require City approval through normal budget procedures. The City provides all staff and other resources necessary for operations and administration of the Commission. All funding is derived from City sources and federal grants and loans. The Commission’s inventory of properties and associated notes receivable are recorded as “Assets Held for Resale” and “Accounts, Notes and Mortgages” and “Unearned Revenues”. The Commission’s financial activity is recorded in the
E-43 Housing Partnership Revolving Fund. The Commission is considered to almost exclusively benefit the City even though it does not provide services directly to it.
The Greensboro Transit Authority (GTA) is responsible for operating the mass transit system in the municipal area. The members of GTA’s governing board are appointed by City Council. City Council approves GTA’s budget, transit rates and maintains substantive approval over significant operating decisions. Transit taxes are levied under the taxing authority of the City and are included as part of the City’s total tax levy. The GTA is presented as an Enterprise Fund.
Greensboro ABC Board operates alcoholic beverage stores, regulates the sale of such beverages and enforces alcoholic beverage laws in the City. Members of the governing body are appointed by City Council. Financial benefit is provided to the City as a portion of the Greensboro ABC Board’s profits are distributed to the City, quarterly.
Each of the discretely presented component units has a June 30 year-end. Complete financial statements for the GHDP and Greensboro ABC Board component units may be obtained at their respective administrative offices. Financial transactions of the GTA and Commission are reported and audited during the City’s annual audit. No separate financial statements are prepared for these entities.
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
Greensboro Center City Corporation Greensboro Housing Development Attention: Richard Lusk Partnership, Inc. P.O. Box 3136 Attention: Sue Schwartz Greensboro, North Carolina 27402-3136 P.O. Box 3136 Greensboro, North Carolina 27402-3136
Greensboro ABC Board Greensboro Redevelopment Commission Attention: Vickee’ Armstrong Attention: Sue Schwartz P.O. Box 16905 P.O. Box 3136 Greensboro, North Carolina 27416-0905 Greensboro, North Carolina 27402-3136
B. Governmental-Wide and Fund Financial Statements
The basic financial statements include both government-wide (based on the City as a whole) and fund financial statements.
The government-wide financial statements (i.e., the statement of net position and the statement of activities) report information on all of the non-fiduciary activities of the primary government and its component units. For the most part, the effect of interfund activity has been removed from these financial statements. Governmental activities, which normally are supported by taxes and intergovernmental revenues, are reported separately from business-type activities, which rely to a significant extent on fees and charges for support. Likewise, the primary government is reported separately from certain legally separate component units for which the primary government is financially accountable.
The statement of activities demonstrates the degree to which the direct expenses of a given function or segments are offset by program revenues. Direct expenses are those that are clearly identifiable with a specific function or segment. Program revenues include 1) charges to customers or applicants who purchase, use, or directly benefit from goods, services, or privileges provided by a given function or segment and 2) grants and contributions that are restricted to meeting the operational or capital requirements of a particular function or segment. Taxes and other items not properly included among program revenues are reported instead as general revenues.
Separate financial statements are provided for governmental funds, proprietary funds, and a fiduciary fund, even though the latter is excluded from the government-wide statements. The focus of the governmental and proprietary fund financial statements is on major funds. The City’s determination of reporting major funds considered the criteria prescribed by GASB and consistency of presentation from year to year. Major individual governmental funds and major individual enterprise funds are reported as separate columns in the fund financial statements. Non-major funds are summarized into a single column. Internal service funds, funds that provide goods and services to other City departments and certain outside agencies on a cost- reimbursement basis, have also been eliminated to prevent “double reporting” of their transactions. Internal service funds primarily perform services for the City’s governmental funds.
E-44 The government-wide financial statements and the fund financial statements report the City’s operational and fiscal accountability. Operational accountability refers to the reporting of efficiency and effectiveness of achieved operating objectives using all resources available for that purpose, and whether additional objectives can be met in the foreseeable future. Fiscal accountability is demonstrated through additional fund information detailing compliance with finance-related legal and contractual provisions.
C. Measurement Focus, Basis of Accounting, and Financial Statement Presentation
The government-wide financial statements are reported using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting, as are the proprietary fund and fiduciary fund financial statements. Revenues are recorded when earned and expenses are recorded when a liability is incurred, regardless of the timing of related cash flows. Property taxes are recognized as revenues in the year for which they are levied. Grants and similar items are recognized as revenue as soon as all eligibility requirements imposed by the provider have been met. All assets and liabilities (whether current or non-current) associated with these activities are included in the government-wide financial statements, resulting in net position.
Governmental fund financial statements are reported using the current financial resources measurement focus and the modified accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recognized when they are measurable and available, or when susceptible to accrual. “Measurable” means the amount of the transaction can be determined and “available” means collectible within the current period or soon enough thereafter to pay liabilities of the current period. The City considers sales taxes and state-shared revenues and reimbursements to be available if they are collected within 90 days after year-end and ad valorem taxes and profit distributions from the ABC Board to be available if collected within 60 days after year-end. Certain intergovernmental revenues, licenses and permits, fines and forfeitures, and charges for current services are recognized when cash is received, unless they are subject to deferral to a future period.
Expenditures are generally recognized under the modified accrual basis of accounting when the related fund liability is incurred. Exceptions to this general rule include accumulated unpaid sick pay which is not accrued and debt service on general long- term debt and claims and judgments which are recognized when the liability is normally expected to be liquidated with available financial resources.
Only current assets and current liabilities are generally included on the balance sheets of the governmental funds. Operating statements present increases (revenues and other financing sources) and decreases (expenditures and other financing uses) in net current position. Accordingly, the reported fund balance presents a summary of sources and uses of “available spendable resources” during a period. Since the governmental fund statements are presented on a different measurement focus and basis of accounting than the governmental activities column in the government-wide statements, a reconciliation is presented on the page following each statement, which briefly explains the adjustments necessary to transform the fund-based financial statements into the governmental activities column of the government-wide presentation.
Proprietary funds distinguish operating revenues and expenses from non-operating items. It is the City’s policy that operating revenues and expenses generally result from providing services and producing and delivering goods in connection with a proprietary fund’s principal ongoing operations. The principal operating revenues of the Enterprise Funds and of the government’s Internal Service Funds are charges to customers for sales and services. Operating expenses for Enterprise Funds and Internal Service Funds include the cost of sales and services, administrative expenses, claims payments, and depreciation on capital assets. All revenues and expenses not meeting this definition are reported as non-operating revenues and expenses.
The government reports the following major governmental funds:
General Fund - The General Fund is the primary operating fund of the City. It is used to account for all financial resources of the general government, except those required to be accounted for in another fund.
Debt Service Fund - The Debt Service Fund is used to account for and report financial resources that are restricted, committed or assigned to the accumulation of resources for, and the payment of, general long-term debt principal, interest and related costs.
The government reports the following major proprietary funds:
Enterprise Funds - Enterprise Funds account for operations that are financed and operated in a manner similar to private business enterprises where the intent of the governing body is that the costs of providing goods or services to the general public
E-45 on a continuing basis be financed or recovered primarily through user charges; or where the governing body has decided that periodic determination of revenues earned, expenses incurred, and net income is appropriate for capital maintenance, public policy, management control, accountability or other purposes.
The Water Resources Fund provides water and sewer services to more than 104,000 customers and is designed to be self- supporting. This fund also provides for principal and interest on all water and sewer debt. Outstanding Combined Enterprise System revenue bonds are recorded in this fund.
The Stormwater Management Fund was established to account for the federally mandated program of stormwater system management, which is supported by a City-wide stormwater fee.
The War Memorial Coliseum Fund administers operations of a complex that brings top artists in entertainment, education, and sports to the City. The Coliseum Fund operation supports debt service on the financing agreements for energy improvements at the facility.
The Solid Waste Management Fund accounts for waste disposal and recycling operations of the City, as well as solid waste landfill improvements. Outstanding special obligation bonds are recorded and supported in this fund.
The City’s parking operations are included in “Other Enterprise Fund”, a non-major fund.
Additionally, the government reports the following fund types:
Internal Service Funds - Internal Service Funds account for the financing of goods or services provided by one department or agency to other departments or agencies of the City, or to other governments, on a cost-reimbursement basis. The City also accounts for its risk-retention transactions and equipment purchases financed with lease-purchase agreements in the Internal Service Funds. Internal Service Funds of the City government (which traditionally provide services primarily to other funds of the government) are presented in summary form as part of the proprietary fund financial statements. Since the principal users of the Internal Service Funds are associated with the City’s governmental activities, financial statements of Internal Service Funds are consolidated into the governmental activities column when presented at the government-wide level. To the extent possible, the costs of these services are reflected in the appropriate functional activity.
Fiduciary Funds - The Law Enforcement Officers Special Separation Allowance Pension Benefit Trust (LEOSSA) and the Other Postemployment Benefit (OPEB) Trust Funds account for assets held by the City in a fiduciary capacity and accumulate funds to provide pension and certain health and life benefit payments to qualified law enforcement officers and retirees. These funds use the accrual basis of accounting and have a capital maintenance measurement focus. They are accounted for in essentially the same manner as Proprietary Funds.
The City’s fiduciary funds are presented in the fund financial statements by type (Law Enforcement Officers Special Separation Allowance Pension Benefit Trust (LEOSSA) and other Postemployment (OPEB) Benefit Trust). Since by definition these assets are being held for the benefit of a third party (pension and retiree participants) and cannot be used to address activities or obligations of the government, these funds are not incorporated into the government-wide statements.
As a general rule the effect of interfund activity has been eliminated from the government-wide financial statements. Exceptions to the rule are payments between the water resources and solid waste disposal funds and the General Fund. Eliminations of these charges would distort the direct costs and program revenues reported for the various functions concerned.
When both restricted and unrestricted resources are available for use, it is the City’s policy to use restricted resources first, then unrestricted resources as they are needed.
D. Assets, Liabilities, Deferred Outflows/Deferred Inflows of Resources, and Net Position or Equity
1. Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments
The City maintains a cash and investment pool that is used by all funds except the following, which maintain separate deposits and investments: Capital Project Bond Funds and Water Resources Bond Funds. Each fund type’s equity and cash and cash equivalents/investments are displayed separately on a combined balance sheet. Interest is distributed to the various funds on the basis of equity in the cash and cash equivalent/investments pool and individual fund investments. For purposes of the
E-46 statement of cash flows, investments (including restricted assets) are considered to be cash equivalents, since they represent highly liquid deposits of the cash and investment pool.
2. Receivables and Payables
Activity between funds that are representative of lending/borrowing arrangements outstanding at the end of the Fiscal Year are referred to as “internal receivables/internal payable” (i.e., the current portion of interfund loans) and are reported “net”. Residual balances outstanding between the governmental activities and business-type activities are reported in the government- wide financial statements as “internal balances”.
City ad valorem taxes are billed by the Guilford County Tax Collector after July 1, the beginning of the Fiscal Year, and are due on September 1. No penalties or interest are assessed until the following January 6. The taxes levied (other than motor vehicles) are based on assessed property values as of January 1, which is the statutory lien date on real property. Liens against personal property are coincident with action taken to levy or garnish. Collections of City taxes are made by the County and remitted to the City as collected. In accordance with State law, property taxes on certain registered motor vehicles are assessed and collected throughout the year based on a staggered registration system. Effective September 1, 2013, motor vehicle taxes become due at the time the vehicles are registered. Until that date, motor vehicle taxes became due the first day of the fourth month after vehicles were registered and were collected by the County and remitted to the City. Under the current system, vehicle taxes are collected by the State of North Carolina and remitted to the City. The taxes receivable amount for the General Fund is reduced by an allowance for uncollectible of $271,181. The net General Fund receivable of $4,524,986 is shown as a deferred inflow of resources on the Governmental Funds Balance Sheet.
3. Inventories/Assets Held for Resale and Prepaid Items
Inventories consist primarily of materials and supplies held for consumption. They are stated at cost, determined principally by a moving average method. The costs of governmental fund-type inventories are recorded as expenditures when consumed rather than when purchased. Inventories of the Greensboro ABC Board are valued at the lower of cost (FIFO) or market.
Assets Held for Resale in the amount of $3,096,890 and $2,297,711 as of June 30, 2017, can be found in the statement of net position for component units, Exhibit A-15 on page 35, for the Greensboro Redevelopment Commission and the Greensboro Housing Development Partnership, respectively. Assets Held for Resale amounting to $95,180, and $600,000 are recorded in the Street and Sidewalk Revolving Fund, and the Capital Leasing Fund, respectively, for certain other properties held by the City.
Certain payments to vendors reflect costs applicable to future accounting periods and are recorded as prepaid items in both government-wide and fund financial statements and expensed as the items are used.
4. Restricted Assets
Certain proceeds of the City’s bonds, certain grant receipts, as well as other funds are classified as restricted assets on the balance sheet because their use is limited by applicable bonds covenants, grantor or other third party and enabling legislative restrictions and state statutes.
Powell Bill funds are classified as restricted cash because they can be expended only for the purposes of maintaining, repairing, constructing, reconstructing or widening of local streets per G.S. 136-41.1 through 136-41.4.
5. Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets of $89,147,139 as of June 30, 2017 are recorded in the Water Resources Enterprise Fund and represent rights to future raw water allocations from the Randleman Dam and reservoir project, in accordance with a joint venture agreement established in September 1987 with five other governmental entities to form a regional water supply.
The intangible asset is based on City contributions to the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority for construction of the dam, reservoir, water treatment plant and surrounding infrastructure improvements as well as $897,106 of contributions recorded in Fiscal Year 2017, toward the City’s administrative and operating allocation. In Fiscal Year 2011, the City began amortizing the water rights over a period of 50 years with current year related amortization expense totaling $1,782,943. Accumulated amortization totals $12,113,915.
E-47 Other Intangible Assets are recorded as follows: Software & Accumulated Eas ements Licenses Amortization Governmental Activities: General Government Assets $ $ 3,409,874 $ 3,354,045 Capital Leasing Fund 830,969 814,204 Total $ $ 4,240,843 $ 4,168,249
Business-Type Activities: Water Resources Fund $ 21,761,534 $ 5,030,452 $ 4,814,660 Stormwater Fund 1,446,291 377,548 338,291 Other Non-Major Enterprise Fund 49,218 49,218 Total $ 23,207,825 $ 5,457,218 $ 5,202,169
Software and Licenses are amortized over an estimated useful life of 3 to 7 years. Easements represent non-depreciable assets.
6. Capital Assets
Capital assets, which include property, plant, equipment, infrastructure assets (e.g., roads, bridges, sidewalks and similar items) and intangible assets, are reported in the applicable governmental or business-type activities columns in the government-wide financial statements. Capital assets are defined by the government as assets with an initial, individual cost of more than $5,000. One exception is intangible assets, for internally generated software, which is capitalized if greater than $100,000. All purchased capital assets of the City and GTA are valued at historical cost or estimated historical cost if actual historical cost is not available. Donated capital assets received prior to June 15, 2015 are recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of donation. Donated capital assets received after June 15, 2015 are recorded at acquisition value. All other purchased or constructed capital assets are reported at cost or estimated historical cost. General infrastructure assets, including annexed streets that were acquired, or received substantial improvements subsequent to July 1, 1980 are reported at estimated historical cost using deflated replacement values. The cost of normal maintenance and repairs that do not add value to the asset or materially extend assets lives are not capitalized.
General capital assets and the related accumulated depreciation are reported for the City and GTA using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Buildings, 40 years; Improvements, 20 years; Equipment, 5-20 years and Infrastructure as follows: Streets, 50 years; Sidewalks, 40 years; Bridges, 50 years; Water/Sewer, 40 years and Stormwater Improvements, 30-75 years. Depreciation of all exhaustible capital assets used by Proprietary Funds is charged as an expense against their operations.
Property and equipment of the Greensboro ABC Board are stated at cost and are depreciated over their useful lives on a straight- line basis as follows: Buildings, 50 years; Equipment, 3-5 years. Leasehold improvements of the Greensboro ABC Board are depreciated over the term of the lease agreement.
Property, furniture and equipment of the GHDP are stated at cost and are depreciated over their useful lives on a straight-line basis as follows: Buildings, 27 years; Furniture and Equipment, 3-5 years.
Capital assets also include intangible assets which are described in D. 5.
7. Deferred Outflows/Inflows of Resources and Unearned Revenues
In addition to assets, the statement of financial position will sometimes report a separate section for deferred outflows of resources. This separate financial statement element, Deferred Outflows of Resources, represents a consumption of net position that applies to a future period and so will not be recognized as an expense or expenditure until then. The City has three items that meet this criterion, an unamortized loss on bond defeasance for General Obligation and Water and Sewer Refunding bonds, the accumulated decrease in fair value of hedging derivatives for Series 1998 General Obligation bonds and contributions made to the pension plan in the 2017 fiscal year. In addition to liabilities, the statement of financial position will sometimes report a separate section for deferred inflows of resources. This separate financial statement element, Deferred Inflows of Resources,
E-48 represents an acquisition of net position that applies to a future period and so will not be recognized as revenue until then. The City has certain items that meet the criterion for this category – prepaid taxes, prepaid assessments and deferrals of pension expense that result from the implementation of GASB Statement No. 68. In addition, property tax and other accounts receivable are included at the fund level in the financial statements.
The City reports unearned revenue on its government-wide and fund financial statements. Unearned revenues arise when potential revenue does not meet both the “measureable” and “available” criteria for recognition in the current period (fund financial statements). Unearned revenues also arise when resources are unearned by the City and received before it has a legal claim to them, as when grant monies are received prior to the incurrence of qualifying expenditures (fund financial statements and government-wide financial statements). In subsequent periods, when both revenue recognition criteria are met, or when the City has a legal claim to the resources, the liability for unearned revenue is removed from the applicable financial statement and revenue is recognized.
Deferred Outflows/Inflows of Resources and Unearned Revenues in the fund and basic financial statements at June 30, 2017 are composed of the following:
Fund Financial Statements Deferred Outflows of Resources
Proprietary Funds Unamortized Bond Refunding Charges Water Resources Fund $ 3,113,089
Pension Deferrals: Water Resources Fund $ 3,151,885 Stormwater Management Fund 597,291 War Memorial Coliseum Fund 1,212,692 Solid Waste Management Fund 335,388 Other Non-Major Enterprise Fund 111,796 Internal Service Funds 2,099,400 7,508,452
Current Year Pension Contributions: Water Resources Fund 973,784 Stormwater Management Fund 184,535 War Memorial Coliseum Fund 374,665 Solid Waste Management Fund 103,619 Other Non-Major Enterprise Fund 34,540 Internal Service Funds 648,616 2,319,759 Subtotal Deferred Outflows of Resources $ 12,941,300
E-49 Fund Financial Statements Deferred Inflows of Resources
Governmental Funds Taxes Receivable: General Fund $ 4,524,986 Other Non-Major Governmental Funds 82,783 $ 4,607,769 Notes and Mortgages Receivable Other Non-Major Governmental Funds 32,300 Other Accounts Receivable: General Fund 823,709 Other Non-Major Governmental Funds 16,313 840,022 Prepaid Taxes: General Fund 16,692 Prepaid Assessments: Other Non-Major Governmental Funds 17,282 Subtotal Deferred Inflows of Resources $ 5,514,065
Proprietary Funds Pension Deferrals: Water Resources Fund $ 313,001 Stormwater Management Fund 59,314 War Memorial Coliseum Fund 120,427 Solid Waste Management Fund 33,306 Other Non-Major Enterprise Fund 11,102 Internal Service Funds 208,481 Subtotal Deferred Inflows of Resources $ 745,631
Fund Financial Statements Unearned Revenues
Governmental Funds Prepaid Privilege License Fees: General Fund$ 17,325 Prepaid Business Permit Fees: General Fund 1,600 Contributions/Donations: General Fund 324,719 Grant Revenues: Other Non-Major Governmental Funds 5,043,241 Subtotal Unearned Revenues $ 5,386,885
Proprietary Funds Prepaid Rents: War Memorial Coliseum Fund$ 606,187 Promotional Fees in Advance: War Memorial Coliseum Fund 147,632 Subtotal Unearned Revenues $ 753,819
E-50 Government-Wide Financial Statements Governmental Business-Type Activities Activities Deferred Outflows of Resources Unamortized Bond Refunding Charges $ 1,167,838 $ 3,113,089 Pension Deferrals 29,418,409 5,409,052 Current Year Pension Contributions 10,412,705 1,671,143 Accumulated Decrease in Fair Value of Hedging Derivatives 318,402 Subtotal Deferred Outflows of Resources $ 41,317,354 $ 10,193,284
Deferred Inflows of Resources Prepaid Taxes $ 16,692 $ Prepaid Assessments 17,282 Pension Deferrals 3,795,990 537,150 Subtotal Deferred Inflows of Resources $ 3,829,964 $ 537,150
Unearned Revenues Prepaid Privilege License Fees $ 17,325 $ Prepaid Business Permit Fees 1,600 Prepaid Rents 606,187 Promotional Fees in Advance 147,632 Grant Revenues 2,548,149 Unearned contributions/donations 324,719 Subtotal Unearned Revenues $ 2,891,793 $ 753,819
8. Long-Term Liabilities
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations are reported as liabilities in the applicable governmental activities, business- type activities, or proprietary fund-type statement of net position in the government-wide financial statements, and proprietary fund-types in the fund financial statements. Bond premiums and discounts and losses on extinguishment of debt are unearned and amortized over the life of the bonds using the effective interest method. These latter amounts are now classified as Deferred Outflows of Resources. Bond issuance costs are expensed in the reporting period in which they are incurred.
In the fund financial statements, governmental fund types recognize bond premiums and discounts, as well as bond issuance costs during the current period. The face amount of debt issued is reported as an “Other Financing Source”. Premiums received on debt issuances are reported as “Other Financing Sources” while discounts on debt issuances are reported as “Other Financing Uses”. Issuance costs, whether or not withheld from the actual debt proceeds received, are reported as debt service expenditures as “Fees and Other”.
9. Fund Equity
In the governmental fund financial statements, the fund balances are composed of five classifications designed to disclose the spending hierarchy of constraints placed on how fund balance can be spent. The City reports nonspendable funds, restricted, committed, assigned and unassigned fund balances. Fund balances are further segregated into the following classifications:
Nonspendable Fund Balance - This classification includes amounts that cannot be spent because they are either not in spendable form or legally or contractually required to be maintained intact. Amounts that cannot be spent due to form, include inventories, prepaid amounts, long-term amounts of loans and notes receivable funds permanently held for cemetery care and property held for resale, unless future property sale proceeds are restricted, committed or assigned.
Inventories and Miscellaneous Prepaids - This represents that portion of fund balance segregated for year-end inventories of supplies and prepaid items such as rent and postage; these are current assets and do not represent available spendable resources.
E-51 Assets Held for Resale - This represents that portion of fund balance segregated for assets that are intended to be resold and not used in operation.
Perpetual Maintenance – This represents Cemetery resources that are required to be retained in perpetuity for maintenance of the City’s three cemeteries.
Restricted Fund Balance – This classification can be spent only for specific purposes, as stipulated by external resource providers and creditors, by constitution or through enabling legislation that is legally enforceable by an external party. Enabling legislation that creates a revenue stream must also stipulate the purposes for which that revenue can be used. Restrictions may only be changed by parties external to the entity or imposed by law.
Restricted for Stabilization by State Statute - This represents the amount of fund balance which cannot be appropriated by the governing board. North Carolina General Statutes (G.S. 159-8(a)) limit the amount that each local government may appropriate to the sum of cash and cash equivalents/investments, less the sum of liabilities, encumbrances and unearned revenues arising from cash receipts as those amounts stand at the close of the preceding Fiscal Year. Encumbrances represent commitments outstanding at June 30, 2017 related to purchase orders and unperformed contracts.
Restricted for Debt Covenants – This fund balance is derived from debt proceeds and is governed by certain covenants contained in financing agreements and is mainly restricted to finance major capital improvements.
Restricted for Grantor Requirements - Highway Improvements – This represents the amount of fund balance which can only be spent on streets, such as Powell Bill. The Powell Bill Fund is reported as a Special Revenue Fund for reporting purposes and related capital expenditures are also reported in the State Highway Allocation Capital Project Fund. These funds were established to account for Powell Bill Funds which are derived from a one and three-fourths cents per gallon motor fuel tax. The State of North Carolina collects these monies and returns a proportionate share to local governments based on local street mileage and population. Expenditures from this fund are restricted to specific highway construction and maintenance costs.
Committed Fund Balance – The portion of fund balance that can only be used for specific purposes imposed by a formal action in a majority vote by a quorum of the City of Greensboro’s governing body (highest level of decision–making authority). The governing body can, by adoption of a resolution prior to the end of the year, commit fund balance. Once adopted, the limitation imposed by the resolution remains in place until a similar action is taken (the adoption of another resolution) to remove or revise the limitation. These amounts are not subject to legal enforceability by external parties, as in restricted; however, amounts cannot be used for any other purpose unless the governing body removes or changes the limitation by taking the same form of action employed to previously impose the limitation. Formal action to commit an amount to a specific purpose must be made prior to the end of the Fiscal Year. The actual amount, however, may be computed after the year end as part of the preparation of the financial statements.
Committed for 911 Program – This portion of fund balance represents amounts committed to the continued operations of the Guilford Metro 911 Emergency Telephone System.
Committed for Special Tax Districts – This represents the portion of fund balance committed by the board for special tax districts, primarily derived from specific property taxes.
Committed for Neighborhood Development - This portion of fund balance represents amounts committed to housing partnership and community development to fund low and moderate income housing initiatives, primarily derived from a specific property tax.
Committed for Economic Opportunity – This portion of fund balance represents amounts committed to enhancing economic development within the City of Greensboro.
Committed for Cemetery Maintenance – This amount represents the portion of fund balance to be used for the maintenance and operation of the three cemeteries that are owned and operated by the City, primarily derived from cemetery lot sales.
Committed for Debt Service – This represents amounts held for the future payment of general long-term debt principal and interest.
E-52 Assigned Fund Balance can be assigned either by any action of the governing body, or by designees with authority to assign. Amounts can be unassigned by the same process. Assignments calculations may be made after the end of the fiscal year during the process of preparation of the financial statements. The City may delegate to the City Manager (or his designee) the authority to assign amounts of a fund balance to promote sound financial operations of the City or to meet a future obligation.
Assigned for Subsequent Year’s Expenditures – This represents the amount of fund balance appropriated by the City Council to balance the budget for the year ending June 30, 2018.
Assigned for Debt Service – This represents amounts held for the future payment of general long-term debt principal and interest.
Assigned for Capital Projects – This represents funds used to finance all major capital improvements. The governing body approves the appropriation.
Unassigned Fund Balance represents the residual classification for the General Fund, which has not been restricted committed, or assigned to specific purposes within the General Fund. Council action is needed to affect the Unassigned Fund Balance (Unappropriated Fund Balance) in the General Fund. The ordinance must be approved by seven Council members unless an emergency exists (Section 3.23 of Greensboro City Charter). The minimum fund balance policy for the General Fund is 9% of budgeted expenditures of the subsequent year, with the remaining amounts, if any, recorded as “Assigned for Capital Projects”. Unassigned residual deficits may apply to other governmental funds to the extent fund balances are insufficient to satisfy restricted and committed balances.
The City of Greensboro’s revenue spending policy provides guidance for programs with multiple revenue sources. The Finance Officer will use resources in the following hierarchy; bond proceeds, federal funds, state funds, local non-City funds, and then City funds when directing expenditures of the City.
Fund balance determination of order of expenditures – In determining the classification of total fund balance remaining at the end of the Fiscal Year when an expenditure is incurred for purposes for which both restricted and unrestricted amounts are available, expenditures will be applied first to restricted fund balance and then to unrestricted fund balance. The Finance Director has the authority to deviate from this policy if it is in the best interest of the City and promotes sound financial practices. Within unrestricted fund balance, the order in which the expenditures will be applied is as follows: Committed, Assigned, Unassigned, if multiple fund balances are reported for the same program.
10. Net Position
The government-wide and business-type fund financial statements utilize a net position presentation. Net position is categorized as net investment in capital assets, restricted and unrestricted.
Net Investment in Capital Assets is intended to reflect the portion of net position which is associated with non-liquid capital assets less outstanding capital asset-related debt.
Restricted Net Position represents liquid assets (typically generated from certain revenues and bond proceeds) which have third-party (statutory, bond covenant or granting agency) limitations on their use. Restrictions may also be imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
At June 30, 2017, net position restricted by enabling legislation includes:
Water Resources Capital Reserve $ 8,679,678 Solid Waste Capital Reserve 1,395,831 Parking Facilities Capital Reserve 2,650
Unrestricted Net Position represents net position that does not meet the definitions of “Restricted” or “Net Investment in Capital Assets”. Unrestricted net position may be assigned or committed for management’s or the Board’s specific internal purposes. Unrestricted net position does not equate to net position available for appropriation which is calculated using statutory guidelines.
E-53 11. Pensions
For purposes of measuring the net pension asset (liability), deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about the fiduciary net position of the Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System (LGERS) and additions to/deductions from LGERS’ fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by LGERS. For this purpose, plan member contributions are recognized in the period in which the contributions are due. The City of Greensboro’s employer contributions are recognized when due and the City of Greensboro has a legal requirement to provide the contributions. Benefits and refunds are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the terms of LGERS. Investments are reported at fair value.
Government-Wide Financial Statements Governmental Business-Type Activities Activities Deferred Outflows of Resources Pension Deferrals - LGERS $ 29,418,409 $ 5,409,052
Current Year Pension Contributions - LGERS $ 9,088,907 $ 1,671,143 Current Year Pension Contributions - LEOSSA 1,323,798 Subtotal Current Year Pension Contributions $ 10,412,705 $ 1,671,143
Liabilities Net Pension Liability - LGERS $ 45,935,278 $ 8,445,948 Net Pension Liability - LEOSSA 25,009,255 Subtotal Net Pension Liability $70,944,533 $ 8,445,948
Deferred Inflows of Resources Pension Deferrals - LGERS $ 2,921,411 $ 537,150 Pension Deferrals - LEOSSA 874,579 Subtotal Unearned Revenues $ 3,795,990 $ 537,150
12. Accounting Changes and Reclassifications
In accordance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 68, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Pensions, the City reclassified assets of the General Fund to the Law Enforcement Officers’ Special Separation Allowance Pension Benefit Trust fund. The implementation of the statement required the City to record beginning net pension liability and the effects on net position of contributions made by the City during the measurement period (calendar year ending December 31, 2016). As a result, the beginning fund balance for the General Fund decreased by $6,365,576 and the beginning net position for governmental activities decreased by $31,446,135.
The City also implemented GASB Statement No. 74, Financial Reporting for Postemployment Benefit Plans Other Than Pension Plans for the Other Postemployment Benefit (OPEB) Trust. The implementation of this statement had no effect on net position.
II. Reconciliation of Government-Wide and Fund Financial Statements
A. Explanation of certain differences between the governmental fund balance sheet and the government-wide statement of net position.
The governmental fund balance sheet includes reconciliation between fund balance – total governmental funds and net position – governmental activities as reported in the government – wide statement of net position. One element of that reconciliation explains that “long-term liabilities, including bonds payable, are not due and payable in the current period and therefore are not reported in the funds.”
E-54 The details of this $256,241,666 difference (including Premium of $14,544,884 and unamortized bond refunding charges of $1,167,838) are as follows:
Bonds and Notes Payable $ 195,910,932 Certificates of Participation Payable 5,929,705 Limited Obligation Bonds and Notes Payable 35,955,161 Lease Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 4,304,418 Compensated Absences Payable 11,579,702 Accrued Interest Payable 2,561,748 Combined Adjustment $ 256,241,666
B. Explanation of certain differences between the governmental fund statement of revenues, expenditures, and change in fund balances and the government-wide statement of activities.
The governmental fund statement of revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balances include reconciliation between net changes in fund balances – total governmental funds and changes in net position of governmental activities as reported in the government-wide statement of activities. One element of that reconciliation explains that “Governmental funds report capital outlays as expenditures. However, in the statement of activities the cost of those assets is allocated over their estimated useful lives and reported as depreciation expense”.
The details of this $30,544,298 difference are as follows:
Capital Outlay $ 28,558,351 Contributed Capital 15,496,575 Disposal (22,094) Depreciation/Amortization Expense (13,488,534) Combined Adjustment $ 30,544,298
Another element of that reconciliation states that “the issuance of long-term debt (e.g., bonds, leases) provides current financial resources to governmental funds, while the repayment of the principal of long-term debt consumes the current financial resources of governmental funds. Neither transaction, however, has any effect on net position. Also, governmental funds report the effect of premiums, discounts, and similar items when debt is first issued, whereas these amounts are unearned and amortized in the statement of activities. Also included are compensated absences activities.”
The details of this $(34,771,178) difference are as follows:
Issuance of Debt $ (120,830,329) Principal Expenditure 84,670,341 Bond-Related Amortization 941,558 Interest Expenditures/Premium Amortization 853,522 Compensated Absences Expense (406,270) Combined Adjustment $ (34,771,178)
E-55 III. Stewardship, Compliance and Accountability
A. Budgetary Information
In accordance with the General Statutes of the State of North Carolina, the City prepares and adopts its budgets on the modified accrual basis. The General Statutes also require balanced budgets for all funds for which a budget is required. The City adopts annual budgets for all funds except Capital Projects Funds, Grant Project Funds and Trust Fund. Annual budgets must be adopted no later than July 1, the beginning of the Fiscal Year. The following Special Revenue Funds have legally adopted annual budgets: Streets and Sidewalk Revolving, Cemetery, Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax, Special Tax Districts, Housing Partnership Revolving, Economic Development Fund, and Emergency Telephone System Fund. Capital and Grant Project budgets are adopted for the duration of the project which may encompass several years. Appropriations for funds that adopt annual budgets lapse at the end of the budget year. Capital and Grant Project budget appropriations do not lapse until the completion of the project.
The following schedule provides management and citizens with information on the portion of General Fund balance that is available for appropriation:
Total Fund Balance - General Fund $69,597,893 Less: Inventories 975,385 Prepaid Expenditures 271,191 Stabilization by State Statute 28,346,163 Appropriated Fund Balance in 2018 Budget 6,602,801 Capital Projects 7,644,005 Working Capital/Fund Balance Policy 25,758,348
Budgets are adopted at a fund level and are amended as necessary during the Fiscal Year in one of two ways. First, the City Manager, as delegated by City Council, may make line-item transfers within individual fund budgets with subsequent monthly notice to City Council. Such transfers can neither increase nor decrease the overall budget at the fund level. Secondly, the budget may be increased or decreased at the fund level as changing circumstances dictate, subject to City Council approval. The legal level of budgetary control (the level at which expenditures may not legally exceed appropriations) is the fund level.
As required by North Carolina General Statutes, appropriations in Governmental Funds are encumbered upon issuance of purchase orders, contracts or other forms of legal commitments. Even though goods and services have not been received, the transactions are accounted for as a reservation of fund balance in the year that the commitment is made. While appropriations lapse at the end of the Fiscal Year, the succeeding year’s budget ordinance specifically provides for the re-appropriation of year-end encumbrances.
The outstanding encumbrances are amounts needed to pay any commitments related to purchase orders and contracts that remain unperformed at year-end are as follows:
Encumbrances General Fund Debt Service Fund Non-Major Funds $ 56,208,887 $ 4,281,990 $ 4,750 $ 51,922,147
Supplemental budgetary amendments increased the General Fund appropriation by $6,784,202 for programs being funded by additional revenues and appropriated fund balance. No expenditures exceeded appropriations at the legal level of control during Fiscal Year 2017.
E-56 B. Deficit Fund Equity
The following funds report deficit fund balances as of June 30, 2017:
State and Federal Grants Fund $ (1,216,348) Parks and Recreation Bond Fund - Series 2010 (411,608) Street Improvement Bond Fund - Series 2010 (4,558,257) Parks and Recreation Bond Fund - Series 2016 (772,020)
These deficits will be eliminated with future reimbursements of federal and state grants and with proceeds from future bond issuances.
IV. Detailed Notes on all Funds
A. Deposits and Investments
1. Deposits
All deposits of the City of Greensboro are either insured or collateralized by using one of the two methods. Under the Dedicated Method, all deposits that exceed the federal depository insurance coverage level are collateralized with securities held by the City’s agents in the City’s name. Under the Pooling Method, which is a collateral pool, all uninsured deposits are collateralized with securities held by the State Treasurer’s agent in the name of the State Treasurer. Since the State Treasurer is acting in a fiduciary capacity for the City, the deposits are considered to be held by the City’s agent in the City’s name.
The amount of the pledged collateral is based on an approved averaging method for non-interest bearing deposits and the actual current balance for interest-bearing deposits. Depositories using the Pooling Method report to the State Treasurer the adequacy of their pooled collateral covering uninsured deposits. The State Treasurer does not confirm this information with the City or the escrow agent. Because of the inability to measure the exact amount of collateral pledged for the City under the Pooling Method, the potential exists for under collateralization, and the risk may increase in periods of high cash flows. However, the State Treasurer of North Carolina enforces strict standards of financial stability for each depository that collateralizes public deposits under the Pooling Method. The City does not have a formal investment policy regarding custodial credit risk for deposits.
At June 30, 2017, the City’s deposits had a carrying amount of $5,908,776 and a bank balance of $11,121,376. Of the bank balance, $250,000 was covered by federal depository insurance and the remainder was covered by the collateral held under the Pooling Method. At June 30, 2017, the City had $123,613 cash on hand.
The Greensboro ABC Board, a discretely presented component unit, held deposits in Pooling Method banks only. At June 30, 2017, the ABC Board’s carrying amount of deposits was $3,643,612 and the bank balance was $3,879,478. All of the bank balances were covered by federal depository insurance, as well.
The Greensboro Housing Development Partnership, a discretely presented component unit, had a bank balance at June 30, 2017 of $62,478. All of the bank balance was covered by federal depository insurance.
The Greensboro Redevelopment Commission, a discretely presented component unit, had a bank balance at June 30, 2017 of $31,149. All of the bank balance was covered by federal depository insurance.
2. Investments
North Carolina General Statute 159-30 (c) authorizes the City to invest in obligations of the U. S. Treasury and obligations of certain federal agencies; prime quality commercial paper and bankers’ acceptances bearing the highest rating of the nationally recognized statistical rating services (NRSRS); repurchase agreements with respect to either direct obligations of the United States or obligations of which the principal and interest are guaranteed by the United States; and SEC-registered mutual funds certified by the N.C. Local Government Commission. The City typically holds investments to maturity in order to realize full book value and interest earnings. As required for periods beginning after June 15, 1997 by GASB Statement No. 31, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Certain Investments and for External Investment Pools, the City’s investments with a maturity of more than one year at acquisition and non-money market investments are carried at fair value determined annually
E-57 by quoted market prices, using the specific identification method. Money market instruments that have a remaining maturity at time of purchase of one year or less are reported at amortized cost. The securities of the NCCMT Government Portfolio, a SEC-registered (2a-7) money market mutual fund, are valued at amortized cost, which is the NCCMT’s share price. The NCCMT Term Portfolio has a duration of 0.09 years, and is also an eligible investment for City funds, investing in high-grade money market securities including obligations of the U.S. Treasury and the State of North Carolina. The NCCMT – Term Portfolio’s securities are valued at fair value. Ownership interest of the STIF is determined on a fair market valuation basis as of fiscal year end in accordance with the STIF operating procedures. Valuation of the underlying assets is performed by the custodian.
General Statute 159-30.1 allows the City to establish an Other Postemployment Benefit (OPEB) Trust managed by the staff of the Department of the State Treasurer and operated in accordance with state laws and regulations. It is not registered with the SEC and G.S. 159-30(g) allows the City to make contributions to the Trust. The State Treasurer in his discretion may invest the proceeds in equities of certain publicly held companies and long or short-term fixed income investments as detailed in G.S. 147-69.2 (1-6), (6c) and (8). Funds submitted are managed in three different sub-funds, the State Treasurer’s Short Term Investment Fund (STIF) consisting of short to intermediate treasuries, agencies and corporate issues authorized by G.S. 147- 69.1, the Bond Index Fund (BIF) consisting of high quality debt securities eligible under G.S. 147-69.2(b)(1)-(6), and BlackRock’s MSCI ACWI EQ Index Non-Lendable Class B Fund (Equity Index Fund) authorized under G.S. 147-69.2(b)(8).
Under the authority of G.S. 147-69.3, no unrealized gains or losses of the STIF are distributed to participants of the fund. The BIF is also valued at $1 per share. The MSCI ACWI EQ Index Non-Lendable Class B Fund is priced at $19.1579 per share at June 30, 2017. General Statute 159-30.2 allows the City to establish a Law Enforcement Special Separation Allowance Trust and G.S. 147-69.2 (65) allows the State Treasurer to invest deposits by the City into the Trust in the same manner as the OPEB Trust in the same three sub-funds outlined above.
Interest income earned in the Capital Projects funds, amounting to $103,277 was assigned to the Debt Service Fund.
The GTA owns a percentage of the City's total investment pool. Accordingly, investment balances of the GTA are included in the following table:
Valuation Measurement Weighted Average Investment Type Method Reported/Fair Value Maturity (Year) U.S. Government Agencies Fair Value - Level 2 $ 265,383,625 1.07532 OPEB - STIF Amortized Cost 204,606 0.00001 OPEB - BIF Fair Value - Level 2 6,246,430 0.00005 OPEB - EIF Fair Value - Level 1 10,928,886 0.00008 LEOSSA - STIF Amortized Cost 6,367,475 0.00005 NCCMT Government Portfolio Amortized Cost 55,684,733 0.00044 NCCMT Term Fund Fair Value - Level 1 697,820 0.00001 Total Fair Value $ 345,513,575 Portfolio Weighted Average Maturity 1.07596
All investments are measured using the market approach: using prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or a group of assets.
Level of fair value hierarchy:
Level 1: Financial instruments are valued using directly observable, quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets. Level 2: Financial instruments are valued using a matrix pricing technique. Matrix pricing is used to value securities based on the securities’ benchmark quoted prices.
The Street Improvements Bond Fund-Series 2010 has $962,670 in checks in excess of cash and the Parks & Recreation-Series 2010 has $28,384 in checks in excess of cash, which are reflected in the liability section of these financial statements.
E-58 Interest Rate Risk
In accordance with the formal approved City of Greensboro’s Charter, Article III, Section 4.71, the Investment Manager (Assistant Treasurer) prepares a memo describing investment transactions in detail as they are purchased. This memo is sent to the Mayor, the City Manager and the Finance Director (Treasurer) for signature approval and then returned to the Investment Manager. Although the investment policy has not been formally approved by the City Council, the City has an investment policy guideline, an internally approved Finance Department document that follows North Carolina General Statute 159-30. As a means of limiting the City’s exposure to declines in fair market values from rising interest rates, the City limits the weighted average maturity of its investments to less than 3.5 years. Also, the City purchases securities in a structured ladder with stated maturity dates to limit interest rate risk. The State Treasurer’s STIF is unrated and had a weighted average maturity of 1.6 years at June 30, 2017. The State Treasurer’s BIF is unrated and had a weighted average maturity of 7.99 years at June 30, 2017.
Credit Risk
North Carolina General Statute 159-30 limits investments in U.S. Governmental Agencies and commercial paper to those with top ratings issued by NRSRS. The City has no formal investment policy regarding credit risk, however in practice, it follows NCGS 159-30, and in effect the City limits its investment types to those with top ratings issued by NRSRS. As of June 30, 2017, the City had investments in the NCCMT Government Portfolio, which is rated AAAm by Standard and Poor’s, and in U. S. Government Agencies, all of which were rated AAA by Standard and Poor’s. The City also had investments in the NCCMT Term Portfolio, which is not rated. Investments in commercial paper by the City are rated either A1/P1 by Standard and Poor’s or Moody’s Investors Service. The State Treasurer’s STIF is unrated and authorized under NC General Statute 147-69.1. The State Treasurer’s STIF is invested in highly liquid fixed income securities consisting primarily of short to intermediate term treasuries, agencies, and money market instruments. The BIF is unrated and authorized under NC General Statute 147-69.1 and 147-69.2. The State Treasurer’s BIF is invested in high quality debt securities eligible under G.S. 147- 69.2(b)(1)-(6).
Custodial Credit Risk
For an investment, the custodial risk is the risk that in the event of the failure of the counterparty, the City will not be able to recover the value of its investments or collateral securities that are in the possession of an outside party. The City has no formal policy on custodial credit risk, but the City utilizes a separate third party custodial trust agent for all book-entry transactions, all of which are held in the City’s name.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The City’s investment policy does not restrict the level of investment in money markets or federal agencies, but it restricts investment in commercial paper or bankers’ acceptances of a single issuer to no more than 10% of the total investment portfolio. As of June 30, 2017, the City owned the following investments, which exceed 5% of the City’s total investments, along with the percentage noted for each compared to the total portfolio:
Federal National Mortgage Association 12.98% Federal Home Loan Bank 14.46% Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 36.39% Federal Farm Credit Bank 12.98% NCCMT Government Portfolio 16.12%
At June 30, 2017, the City’s OPEB Trust had $17,379,922 invested in the State Treasurer’s Local Government Other Post- Employment Benefits (OPEB) Trust pursuant to G.S. 159-30.1. The State Treasurer’s OPEB Trust may invest in public equities and both long-term and short-term fixed income obligations as determined by the State Treasurer pursuant to the General Statutes. At year-end, the State Treasurer’s OPEB Trust was invested as follows: State Treasurer’s STIF 1.18%; State Treasurer’s BIF 35.94% and BlackRock’s MSCI ACWI EQ Index Non-Lendable Class B Fund 62.88% (the equities were split with 52.69% in domestic securities and 47.31% in international securities). The City’s LEOSSA Trust had $6,367,475 invested in the State Treasurer’s STIF at June 30, 2017.
E-59 a. Hedging Derivative Instruments
Objective of the Interest Rate Swaps
As a means to convert variable rate obligations to synthetic fixed rate obligations to reduce the overall variable rate exposure of the City, the City entered into an interest rate swap agreement with Bank of America Merrill Lynch in October 2002, in connection with its $5,700,000 Series 1998 Variable Rate General Obligation Bonds. The intention of the swap was to effectively change the City’s interest rate on the bonds to a synthetic fixed rate of 3.46%.
Swap Terms
The bonds and the related swap agreement will mature on April 1, 2020. At inception, and at June 30, 2017, the swap notional amount of $5,700,000 matched the $5,700,000 variable-rate bonds outstanding. Starting in Fiscal Year 2019, the notional value and the principal amount of the associated debt declines. Under the swap, the City pays the counterparty a fixed payment of 3.46% and receives a variable payment computed as 67% of 1 Month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR). The bonds’ variable rate coupons are closely associated with the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Municipal Swap Index (SIFMA).
Fair Value
Because interest rates were lower on June 30, 2017 than at the date of the execution of the swap, the swap had an estimated fair value as of June 30, 2017 of ($318,402). The mark-to-market valuation was established by market quotations from the counterparty representing estimates of the amounts that would be paid for replacement transactions.
Credit Risk
As of June 30, 2017, the City is not exposed to credit risk of the counterparty given the derivatives’ negative fair values. The counterparty was rated A1 by Moody’s Investors Services (Moody’s), A+ by Standard and Poor’s (S&P) and A+ by Fitch Ratings (Fitch) at June 30, 2017. No collateral or other security is required to support the hedging derivative instruments’ credit risk. No master netting arrangements are maintained as there is only one counterparty to the transactions.
Interest Rate/Basis Risk
As noted above, the swap exposes the City to basis risk should the relationship between 67% of 1 Month LIBOR and SIFMA diverge, changing the synthetic rate on the bonds. The effect of this difference in basis is indicated by the difference between the intended synthetic rate of 3.46% and the actual synthetic rate as of 2017 of 3.64%. As of June 30, 2017, the rate on the City’s bonds was 0.92% whereas 67% of 1 Month LIBOR was 0.82%.
Termination Risk
The derivative contract uses the International Swap Dealers Association Master Agreement, which includes standard termination events, such as failure to pay and bankruptcy. The City will have the right to terminate the swap at any time over the life of the swap at the current market value on short-term notice. The respective Schedule to the respective Master Agreement includes an “additional termination event.” That is, the swap may be terminated by the counterparty if the outstanding debt of the City, secured by its faith, credit and taxing power, ceases to be rated at least A3 by Moody’s or any successor thereto, A- by S&P or any successor thereto, or A- by Fitch, or any successor thereto or shall fail to be rated by at least one of Moody’s, S&P, and Fitch. The City or the counterparty may terminate the swap if the other party fails to perform under the terms of the contract. If the swap is terminated, the variable-rate bonds would no longer carry a synthetic interest rate. Termination will result in the City either making or receiving a termination payment based upon the market value on the date of termination.
Market Access Risk/Roll Over Risk
The City’s swap is for the term (maturity) of the bonds and therefore there is no market-access risk or rollover risk.
E-60 Method of Evaluating Hedge Effectiveness
The City evaluated its derivative instrument by using the synthetic instrument quantitative method and deemed the instrument to be an effective hedge as of June 30, 2017.
B. Long-Term Notes Receivable
The City entered into an agreement with Duke Power Company, effective July 1, 1991, which authorized the discontinuance of transit services provided by Duke Transit in Greensboro, pursuant to a franchise agreement scheduled to expire on July 1, 2028. In exchange, the City is to receive $55,500,000 in 37 equal annual installments of $1,500,000 from Duke Power Company with the first installment on July 1, 1991 and the final installment on July 1, 2027, to assist in financing operations of the GTA. The annual payment is secured by a First and Refunding Mortgage Bond issued by Duke Power Company to the City. The present value of the note receivable as of June 30, 2017 is $10,231,950. Interest income of $5,352,291 will be recognized by the effective yield method over the remaining 10-year term of the note, based on an imputed interest rate of 8.95%.
Terms of certain of the notes receivable of the Redevelopment Commission are such that principal and interest may be forgiven upon meeting certain conditions. In addition, corresponding revenue was not recognized at the government-wide financial statement level because the loans were not considered substantially collectible.
C. Capital Assets
Capital asset activity of the year ended June 30, 2017 was as follows:
Beginning Ending Balance Increases Decreases Balance Governmental Activities: Capital Assets, Non-depreciable: Land$ 87,105,546 $ 6,564,170 $ (2,350) $ 93,667,366 Construction in Progress 17,032,139 10,087,578 (8,407,456) 18,712,261 Total Capital Assets Non-Depreciable 104,137,685 16,651,748 (8,409,806) 112,379,627
Capital Assets, Depreciable: Buildings 177,827,103 2,259,806 (35,169) 180,051,740 Improvements Other Than buildings 32,035,241 9,099,245 (18,500) 41,115,986 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 161,263,263 27,515,109 (9,912,020) 178,866,352 Infrastructure 294,477,175 22,572,359 317,049,534 Intangible Assets - Software & Licenses 4,318,993 (78,150) 4,240,843 Total Capital Assets, Depreciable 669,921,775 61,446,519 (10,043,839) 721,324,455
Less Accumulated Depreciation For: Buildings (76,605,784) (4,406,564) 24,909 (80,987,439) Improvements Other Than Buildings (18,445,301) (1,601,938) 18,500 (20,028,739) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment (115,907,142) (13,750,036) 9,565,866 (120,091,312) Infrastructure (142,142,008) (6,369,567) (148,511,575) Intangible Assets - Software & Licenses (4,170,472) (75,927) 78,150 (4,168,249) Total Accumulated Depreciation (357,270,707) (26,204,032) 9,687,425 (373,787,314)
Total Capital Assets, Depreciable, Net 312,651,068 35,242,487 (356,414) 347,537,141
Capital Assets, Net Governmental Activities$ 416,788,753 $ 51,894,235 $ (8,766,220) $ 459,916,768
E-61 Beginning Ending Balance Increases Decreases Balance Business-Type Activities: Capital Assets, Non-Depreciable: Land$ 45,868,641 $ 4,928,302 $ $ 50,796,943 Construction in Progress 90,094,469 31,036,551 (53,799,821) 67,331,199 Intangible Assets - Easements 22,252,477 955,348 23,207,825 Total Capital Assets Non-Depreciable 158,215,587 36,920,201 (53,799,821) 141,335,967
Capital Assets, Depreciable: Buildings 308,658,345 6,918,664 (18,800) 315,558,209 Improvements Other Than Buildings 55,727,895 4,020,874 59,748,769 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 58,175,485 18,699,155 (169,275) 76,705,365 Infrastructure 661,812,618 55,641,518 (4,600) 717,449,536 Intangible Assets: Water Rights, Software & License 93,558,671 1,045,686 94,604,357 Total Capital Assets, Depreciable 1,177,933,014 86,325,897 (192,675) 1,264,066,236
Less Accumulated Depreciation/Amortization for: Buildings (136,056,414) (8,425,012) 7,990 (144,473,436) Improvements Other Than Buildings (26,387,193) (1,996,347) (28,383,540) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment (32,837,685) (3,949,770) 91,162 (36,696,293) Infrastructure (301,952,366) (15,706,829) 2,186 (317,657,009) Intangible Assets: Water Rights, Software & License (15,409,109) (1,906,975) (17,316,084) Total Accumulated Depreciation/Amortization (512,642,767) (31,984,933) 101,338 (544,526,362)
Total Capital Assets, Depreciable, Net 665,290,247 54,340,964 (91,337) 719,539,874
Capital Assets, Net Business-Type Activities$ 823,505,834 $ 91,261,165 $ (53,891,158) $ 860,875,841
Depreciation/Amortization expense was charged to functions/programs of the primary government as follows:
Governmental Activities: General Government$ 168,268 Public Safety 2,128,769 Transportation, including depreciation of general infrastructure assets 6,466,285 Field Operations 34,792 Engineering and Building Maintenance 729,505 Culture and Recreation 3,960,917 Capital assets held by the government's Internal Service Funds are charged to the various functions based on their usage of the assets 12,715,496 Total depreciation, amortization expense - Governmental Activities $ 26,204,032
Business-Type Activities: Water Resources Fund, including depreciation of infrastructure assets $ 25,846,982 Stormwater Management Fund 1,828,457 War Memorial Coliseum Fund 3,217,207 Parking Facilities Fund 581,854 Solid Waste Management Fund 510,433 Total depreciation, amortization expense - Business-Type Activities $ 31,984,933
E-62 Construction Commitments
The City has construction commitments on capital projects at June 30, 2017 as follows:
Governmental Funds: Special Revenue $ 2,249,116 Capital Projects 29,836,176 Total Governmental Funds 32,085,292
Enterprise Funds: Water Resources 53,448,924 Stormwater Management 1,612,434 Coliseum 1,864,899 Other Enterprise 1,813,671 Total Enterprise Funds 58,739,928
Component Units: GTA 59,503 Total Component 59,503
$ 90,884,723
Activity for GTA for the year ended June 30, 2017, was as follows:
Beginning Balance Increases Decreases Ending Balance Capital Assets, Non-depreciable: Land$ 2,923,192 $ $ $ 2,923,192 Construction in Progress 93,577 93,577 Total Capital Assets, Non-depreciable 2,923,192 93,577 3,016,769
Capital Assets, Depreciable: Buildings 37,760,053 37,760,053 Improvements Other Than Buildings 105,160 105,160 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 26,145,908 (1,961,445) 24,184,463 Intangible Assets-Software & Licenses 39,443 123,880 (39,443) 123,880 Total Capital Assets, Depreciable 64,050,564 123,880 (2,000,888) 62,173,556
Less Accumulated Depreciation/Amortization for: Buildings (9,124,202) (944,604) (10,068,806) Improvements Other Than Buildings (13,480) (5,015) (18,495) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment (14,595,466) (1,699,064) 1,930,265 (14,364,265) Intangible Assets-Software & Licenses (26,295) (17,697) 26,295 (17,697) Total Accumulated Depreciation (23,759,443) (2,666,380) 1,956,560 (24,469,263)
Total Capital Assets, Depreciable-Net 40,291,121 (2,542,500) (44,328) 37,704,293
GTA Capital Assets, Net $ 43,214,313 $ (2,448,923) $ (44,328) $ 40,721,062
E-63 Activity for ABC Board for the year ended June 30, 2017, was as follows:
Beginning Balance Increases Decreases Ending Balance Capital Assets, Non-depreciable: Land $ 1,782,715 $ 1,871 $ $ 1,784,586 Capital Assets, Depreciable: Buildings 3,904,603 870,819 4,775,422 Improvements Other Than Buildings 464,112 51,607 515,719 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 2,256,566 265,927 (60,256) 2,462,237 Total Capital Assets, Depreciable 6,625,281 1,188,353 (60,256) 7,753,378
Less Accumulated Depreciation/Amortization for: Buildings (1,014,547) (99,493) (1,114,040) Improvements Other Than Buildings (371,143) (45,965) (417,108) Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment (1,581,429) (240,058) 59,855 (1,761,632) Total Accumulated Depreciation (2,967,119) (385,516) 59,855 (3,292,780)
Total Capital Assets, Depreciable-Net 3,658,162 802,837 (401) 4,460,598
ABC Board Capital Assets, Net $ 5,440,877 $ 804,708 $ (401) $ 6,245,184
D. Closure and Postclosure Care Cost – White Street Landfill
The City owns and operates a regional landfill site located in the northeast portion of the City. State and federal laws require the City to place a final cover on its White Street landfill site and to perform certain maintenance and monitoring functions at the site for thirty years after closure. The City reports a portion of these closure and postclosure care costs as an operating expense in each period based on landfill capacity used as of each June 30. The $26,054,129 reported as landfill closure and postclosure care liability at June 30, 2017 is based on 100% use of the estimated capacity of Phase II and Phase III, Cells 1 and 2. Phase III, Cell 3 is estimated at 56.2% of capacity.
In November 2005, the City issued $8.4 million in Special Obligation bonds for the purpose of constructing a solid waste transfer facility. This facility, which opened in 2006, is located in an industrial section of western Greensboro and accepts waste from the City’s solid waste collection services and from private haulers, with waste transported off-site daily to a private site outside of the City. It is expected that White Street Landfill will only be utilized for disposal of construction, demolition debris, yard waste and certain incinerated waste and in the event that the transfer station is not operational.
The estimated liability amounts are based on what it would cost to perform all closure and postclosure care in the current year. Actual costs may be higher due to inflation, changes in technology, or changes in regulations. At June 30, 2017, the City had expended $3,876,035 to complete closure of the White Street facility, Phase II and $2,535,980 to begin closure activities at the construction and demolition site located on top of the municipal waste filled space. The balance of closure costs, estimated at $13,357,015 and an estimated $12,697,114 for postclosure care will be funded over the remaining life of the landfill, estimated to be 20 to 25 years.
E. Pollution Remediation Obligations
Greensboro staff have identified specific City-owned properties where either it is known or reasonably believed that the sites contain certain pollutants. Most of the properties have not completed an environmental assessment of the impact or have active remediation systems in place, however each site has been reported to a North Carolina regulatory agency as having a current or reportable incident, thus voluntarily obligating the City for certain remediation activities. In addition, the City entered an administrative agreement with a state agency to voluntarily assess a site. None of the reported pollution creates an imminent endangerment to public health or welfare and many of the sources of impact have already been eliminated, as reasonably appropriate.
E-64 An estimated pollution remediation obligation of $1,539,070 is recorded in the Statement of Net Position in the Solid Waste Management Enterprise Fund. This amount reflects current estimates for groundwater pollution remediation noted at the City’s White Street landfill, in an active part of the disposal site, not associated with closure and postclosure activities. City staff has voluntarily worked with appropriate State regulators to assess the environmental impact and to develop a corrective action plan. The estimated cost of remediation is based on an external consultant’s estimate for the corrective action plan, which involves phyto-remediation and monitored natural attenuation activities. Should further activities become necessary, such as constructing a pump and treat system, cost estimates would then be re-evaluated. Remediation activities began in Fiscal Year 2010 and are ongoing.
Certain other sites associated with pollution activity within the City have been identified, primarily pertaining to former waste disposal or prior property use; however, costs for remediation activities are not estimable as of June 30, 2017.
In addition, we estimate no future recoveries to potentially reduce the recorded pollution liabilities in Fiscal Year 2017.
F. Interfund Receivables, Payables and Transfers
The following is a schedule of interfund receivables and payables and due to/from primary government and component units at June 30, 2017:
1. Internal Receivables/Payables: Housing Partnership General Revolving Fund Fund Total Receivable By: General Fund $ 24,100 $ $ 24,100 Non-Major Governmental Funds 684,975 684,975 Total $ 24,100 $ 684,975 $ 709,075 Current Payable From: Non-Major Governmental Funds: Community Development $ $ 684,975 $ 684,975 Workforce Investment Act 24,100 24,100 Total $ 24,100 $ 684,975 $ 709,075
2. Due To/From Primary Government and Component Unit:
Receivable By: Gen eral Fu n d Payable From: Component Unit - ABC Board $ 827,107
Internal receivables and payables were recorded due to timing lags in receipt of funds from outside parties. Current internal balances represent amounts advanced to the Community Development Block Grant Fund ($684,975) and the Workforce Investment Act ($24,100) pending reimbursement receipts from grantor agencies in the next fiscal year.
E-65 3. Interfund Transfers: Non-Major Internal General Governmental Service Fund Funds Funds
Transfers From: $ (35,935,725) $ (19,216,308) $ (115,138)
Transfers To: General Fund $ $ 6,066,000 $ 53,000 Debt Service Fund 21,238,110 2,513 Non-major Governmental Funds 2,241,423 2,881,997 6,635 Enterprise Funds: War Memorial Coliseum 2,700,000 10,265,798 Solid Waste Management 1,897,393 Internal Service Funds 7,858,799 55,503 Total $ 35,935,725 $ 19,216,308 $ 115,138
Stormwater Management Fund Total
Transfers From: $ (7,500) $ (55,274,671)
Transfers To: General Fund $ $ 6,119,000 Debt Service Fund 21,240,623 Non-Major Governmental Funds 7,500 5,137,555 Enterprise Funds: War Memorial Coliseum 12,965,798 Solid Waste Management 1,897,393 Internal Service Funds 7,914,302 Total $ 7,500 $ 55,274,671
Transfers are used to move unrestricted revenues to finance various programs that the government must account for in other funds in accordance with budgetary authorizations, including amounts provided as matching funds for various grant programs.
The Greensboro ABC Board transferred $3,773,528 to the General Fund in Fiscal Year 2017, which was recorded as Intergovernmental Revenue.
The Greensboro Transit Authority transferred $17,600 to the State and Federal Grants fund in Fiscal Year 2017, which was recorded as an expense in the GTA Fund and revenue to the State and Federal Grants Fund.
G. Long-Term Debt
Long-term Bonded Debt of the City consists of General Obligation Bonds, which are collateralized by the full faith, credit and taxing power of the City and are issued for both general governmental improvements and for Proprietary Fund purposes. The City’s legal debt margin as of June 30, 2017 is $1,604,171,430. Long-term Bonded Debt consists of the following:
1. General Governmental Improvement General Obligation Bonds/Anticipation Notes
These outstanding tax-exempt and taxable bonds bear interest, payable monthly, at variable rates along with interest payable semi-annually at fixed rates from 2.00% to 5.00%. The outstanding tax-exempt and taxable variable rate bonds
E-66 are reported at .80%, and 1.13%, respectively as of June 30, 2017. Principal is payable annually in varying amounts through 2037.
On March 18, 2014, the City entered into an agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. for a General Obligation Bond Anticipation Note drawdown program in the amount of $50,000,000. The note bears variable interest of 70% of 1 Month LIBOR plus 35 basis points and were scheduled to mature November 1, 2016. The notes were redeemed on October 20, 2016 and General Obligation Bonds were issued in the amount of $43,460,000 with an original issue premium of $6,904,823 to fund the payoff of the $50,000,000 General Obligation Bond Anticipation Note that was used in addition to cost of issuance.
On October 20, 2016, the City issued $62,590,000 Series 2016 General Obligation Refunding Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate of 2.75% to 5.00% on February 1 and August 1, with a final maturity in 2037. The original issue premium amounted to $10,276,032. These bonds were issued to defease $21,520,000, a portion of General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds Series 2006A, Series 2008A and $43,460,000 of General Obligation Public Improvement Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2014. The Series 2006A and 2008A refunded bonds aggregated difference in the debt service between the refunded debt of $26,346,788 and the refunding debt of $23,726,721 is $2,620,067. The net proceeds for the refunded General Obligation Public Improvement bonds, 2008A are $17,561,691 (after payment of $120,698 in underwriting and other issuance cost). This amount was placed into escrow in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments of the old certificates. The net present value savings as a result of the refunding was $2,209,358.
On April 12, 2017, the City entered into an agreement with PNC Bank, National Association for a General Obligation Bond Anticipation Note drawdown program in the amount of $50,000,000. As of June 30, 2017 $18,497,315 has been drawn down for improvements at the Greensboro Science Center, Street Improvements and Parks and Recreation Facilities. The note bears variable interest at 68.5% of 1 Month LIBOR plus 32 basis points and matures on November 1, 2018.
General Obligation Bonds $165,787,666 Bond Anticipation Notes Payable 18,497,315 184,294,981
2. Internal Services Improvement General Obligation Bonds
This obligation, issued in 1998, relates to a public safety communications system and is recorded in the Technical Services Fund. Debt service will be covered by fees charged to other internal departments.
General Obligation Bonds 1,242,334 Total $185,527,315
3. Limited Obligation Notes
On May 17, 2016, the City entered into an agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. for Limited Obligation Notes in the amount of $20,000,000, for coliseum improvements with a principal amount of $14,000,000 being non-taxable and $6,000,000 being taxable. As of June 30, 2017, $5,489,744 has been drawn down on the non-taxable portion of the note and $5,833,372 has been drawn on the taxable portion. The non-taxable and taxable notes bear variable interest of 70% of 1 Month LIBOR plus 40 basis points and 1 Month LIBOR plus 50 basis points, respectively, and mature May 2022.
4. Defeased Bonds
In prior years, the City defeased General Obligation Bonds by placing the proceeds of new bonds in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old debt. Accordingly, the trust account assets and the liability for the defeased bonds are not included in the City’s financial statements. At June 30, 2017, $31,470,000 of General Obligation Bonds outstanding are considered defeased. For details of all General Obligation outstanding bond issues refer to the Schedule of General Long Term Debt on pages 173 - 176.
E-67 5. General Obligation Bonds/Anticipation Notes Debt Service Requirements to Maturity are:
Governmental Activities Annual Requirements (1) Fiscal Year Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 14,300,000 $ 6,309,739 $ 20,609,739 2018-19 32,982,315 5,244,421 38,226,736 2019-20 14,595,000 4,595,113 19,190,113 2020-21 15,025,000 4,060,849 19,085,849 2021-22 15,175,000 3,606,188 18,781,188 2022-27 52,660,000 11,992,499 64,652,499 2027-32 28,580,000 5,041,337 33,621,337 2032-37 12,210,000 1,295,500 13,505,500 $ 185,527,315 $ 42,145,646 $ 227,672,961
(1) Bond Anticipation Notes of $18,497,315 included are scheduled to mature in Fiscal 2019.
6. Limited Obligation Bonds
On October 7, 2014, the City issued $24,450,000 in Limited Obligation Bonds Series 2014 bearing interest payable semiannually at fixed rates from 2.0% to 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with final maturity in 2040. The original issue premium amounted to $1,587,051. The proceeds of these bonds were used to retire the $24,000,000 limited obligation notes issued on June 1, 2012. The proceeds of the note were used for coliseum improvements.
Governmental Activities Annual Requirements Fiscal Year Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 630,000 $ 933,368 $ 1,563,368 2018-19 655,000 908,168 1,563,168 2019-20 685,000 881,968 1,566,968 2020-21 720,000 847,718 1,567,718 2021-22 745,000 818,918 1,563,918 2022-27 4,205,000 3,620,090 7,825,090 2027-32 5,125,000 2,700,754 7,825,754 2032-37 6,120,000 1,704,972 7,824,972 2037-40 4,365,000 331,508 4,696,508 $ 23,250,000 $ 12,747,464 $ 35,997,464
7. Special Obligation Bonds
On November 17, 2005, the City issued $8,400,000 in Special Obligation Bonds Series 2005 bearing interest payable semiannually at fixed rates from 3.75% to 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with final maturity in 2020. The original issue premium amounted to $224,026. The proceeds of these bonds were used for the construction of a solid waste transfer station along with related equipment and improvements.
A portion of the Local Option Sales Tax is pledged for payment of debt service on the Bonds. Certain financial covenants are contained in the bond order, among the most restrictive of which provide the City maintain a long-term debt service ratio, as defined, of not less than 2.0. The coverage ratio at June 30, 2017 is 24.51. The City demonstrated compliance with bond covenants during Fiscal Year 2016-17.
E-68 Special Obligation Bonds Debt Service Requirements to Maturity are:
Business-Type Activities Annual Requirements Fiscal Year Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 715,000 $ 112,500 $ 827,500 2018-19 750,000 76,750 826,750 2019-20 785,000 39,249 824,249 $ 2,250,000 $ 228,499 $ 2,478,499
8. Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds
The City has participated in the capital markets by issuing over $200 million Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds since 1995, to fund the on-going capital improvement program of the City’s water and sanitary sewer utility. Certain maturities of the debt through 2007 have been defeased, by placing the proceeds of the new bonds in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old debt. Accordingly, the trust account assets and the liability for the defeased bonds are not reflected in the City’s financial Statements. At June 30, 2017, $169,110,000 of Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds is considered defeased. The Combined Enterprise System is currently comprised of only the City’s water and sanitary sewer system. Principal and interest requirements will be provided by an appropriation in the year in which they become due.
On April 14, 2016, the City entered into an agreement with Bank of America, N.A. for a Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bond Anticipation Note drawdown program in the amount of $50,000,000. As of June 30, 2017, $41,338,376 has been draw down for improvements to the City’s water and sewer systems. This agreement committed funds for water and sewer improvements for 2016-2018 capital projects. The notes bear variable interest at 70% of 1 Month LIBOR plus 33 basis points and mature in 2020.
On February 1, 2016, the City issued $29,310,000 Series 2016 Refunding Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate ranging from 2.0% - 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with a final maturity in 2045. This bond was issued to redeem in whole the City’s Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bond Anticipation Note Series 2014 which had an outstanding principal amount of $30,000,000 and has been removed from the Water Resources Fund.
On June 23, 2015, the City issued $33,985,000 Series 2015 Refunding Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate ranging from 3.0% - 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with a final maturity in 2029. This bond was issued to defease $35,810,000 of certain Series 2007A and 2014A Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds. The aggregate difference in debt service between the refunded debt net cash flow of $36,783,650 and the refunding debt net cash flow of $34,459,828 was $2,323,822. The net proceeds of $37,983,527 (after payment of $439,177 in underwriting fees and other issuance cost) were placed in escrow in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old certificates. As a result, a portion of the liability for the 2007A and 2014A Series Revenue Bonds has been removed from the Water Resources Fund. The net present value savings as a result of the refunding was $1,986,402.
In 2012, the City issued $35,185,000 Series 2012A Refunding Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate ranging from 3.0% - 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with a final maturity in 2027. This bond was issued to defease $40,885,000 of certain Series 2005A and 2005B Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds. The aggregate difference in debt service between the refunded debt net cash flow of $52,897,408 and the refunding debt net cash flow of $50,868,670 is $2,028,738. The net proceeds of $41,599,354 (after payment of $482,377 in underwriting fees and other issuance cost) were placed in escrow in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old certificates. As a result, a portion of the liability for the 2005 Series Revenue Bonds has been removed from the Water Resources Fund. The proceeds of these bonds, along with the $3,200,000 received from the origination of Series 2012B federally taxable Combined Enterprise System Revenue Refunding Bonds, were used to terminate the associated 2005B interest rate swap agreement. The net present value savings as a result of the refunding was $1,790,610.
On June 1, 2009, the City issued $43,180,000 Series 2009A Enterprise System Revenue Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate ranging from 3.5% to 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with a final maturity in 2031. In addition, the City issued
E-69 $10,000,000 in 2009B variable rate Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds with interest payable monthly through 2034. The original issue premium amounted to $1,547,280. The proceeds of these bonds have been used for improvements to the City of Greensboro’s water system.
In June 2007, the City issued $38,040,000 2007A Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds payable semiannually at a fixed rate ranging from 4.0% to 5.0% on June 1 and December 1, with a final maturity in 2029. The City also issued $10,000,000 in 2007B variable rate Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds with interest payable monthly through 2032. The original issue premium amounted to $536,101. The proceeds of these bonds have been used for improvements to the City’s water and sanitary sewer system. Also, refer to the 2015 Refunding Bonds.
On December 7, 2006, the City issued $49,480,000 Series 2006 Refunding Combined Enterprise System Revenue Bonds at a fixed rate of 4.0% to 5.25% with a final maturity in 2025. These bonds were issued to defease a portion of Combined Enterprise System Bond Series 1998A, 2001A and 2003A. The amounts were refunded at $13,820,000, $19,290,000 and $19,150,000, respectively for a total defeasance of $52,260,000. The aggregate difference in debt service between the refunded debt net cash flow of $84,860,919 and the refunding debt net cash flow of $81,028,550 is $3,832,369. The net proceeds of $54,971,117 (after payment of $506,736 in underwriting fees, accrued interest, call premium and other issuance cost) were placed in escrow in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old certificates. The net present value interest savings as a result of the refunding was $2,557,141. As a result, the liabilities for a portion of the 1998A, 2001A and 2003A Series Revenue Bonds have been removed from the Water Resources Fund. The proceeds of these bonds were used for improvements to the City’s water and sanitary sewer system and other issue costs.
The City has pledged 100% of future water and sewer customer revenues, net of specified operating expenses to the payment of and as security for the Revenue Bonds in the amounts shown below specifically to cover annual debt service through 2045. This pledge relates to all Combined Enterprise Revenue bonds outstanding, issued for the purpose of making water and sewer system improvements. Certain financial covenants are contained in the revenue bond order, among the most restrictive of which provide that the City maintain a long-term debt service coverage ratio, as defined, of not less than 1.50. Pledged revenues exceeded operating expenses by $53,376,909 to provide a coverage ratio of 2.48 at June 30, 2017. The City was in compliance with all such covenants during Fiscal Year 2016-17.
Revenue Bonds/Anticipation Notes Debt Service Requirements to Maturity are:
Business-Type Activities Annual Requirements (1) Fiscal Year Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 55,633,376 $ 7,431,127 $ 63,064,503 2018-19 14,995,000 6,626,860 21,621,860 2019-20 14,580,000 5,861,584 20,441,584 2020-21 15,325,000 5,157,910 20,482,910 2021-22 16,765,000 4,399,034 21,164,034 2022-27 65,920,000 14,259,044 80,179,044 2027-32 45,470,000 5,665,390 51,135,390 2032-37 12,550,000 2,429,554 14,979,554 2037-42 6,595,000 1,387,263 7,982,263 2042-45 4,495,000 295,264 4,790,264 $ 252,328,376 $ 53,513,030 $ 305,841,406
(1) Bond Anticipation Notes of $41,338,376 included are scheduled to mature in Fiscal 2018.
E-70 9. Certificates of Participation
In September 2010, the Greensboro Center City Corporation (GCCC) issued $7,000,000 Certificates of Participation payable annually at a fixed rate of 3.0% to 5.25% through FY 2031. Pursuant to installment purchase agreements, the City will make installment payments sufficient to pay the scheduled debt service on all certificates. Principal and interest requirements will be provided by appropriation in the year in which they become due. These payments will be appropriated in the Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax Special Revenue Fund. Certificates were issued for the Coliseum Complex Aquatic Center purposes.
Certificates of Participation of the GCCC have been issued in prior years for parking facilities, expansion and improvements to the War Memorial Coliseum Complex, and equipment purchases. All certificates are matured, except those relating to the Coliseum Complex – Aquatic Center. Principal is payable annually in varying amounts through FY 2031.
Certificates of Participation Debt Service Requirements to Maturity are:
Governmental Activities Annual Requirements Fiscal Year Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 305,000 $ 259,175 $ 564,175 2018-19 315,000 246,975 561,975 2019-20 330,000 234,375 564,375 2020-21 340,000 221,175 561,175 2021-22 355,000 207,575 562,575 2022-27 2,005,000 813,463 2,818,463 2027-31 1,990,000 267,751 2,257,751 $ 5,640,000 $ 2,250,489 $ 7,890,489
10. Lease-Purchase and Other Financing Agreements
The City has entered into lease-purchase and other financing agreements for certain energy improvements, and land payable monthly and quarterly through 2026. Principal and interest requirements will be provided by an appropriation in the year in which they become due.
The City entered into a $30,000,000 Installment Financing Agreement with PNC Bank in November 2014 for the purchase of land and improvements for the Steven B. Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. The outstanding balance of $12,160,940 includes the retirement of another short-term Master Installment Agreement of $11,500,000 entered into in FY 2013-2014 with Bank of America for project land acquisition. The current Installment Financing Agreement bears interest at 68.5% of 1 Month LIBOR plus 42 basis points, maturing in 2018.
The City has an outstanding Master Lease Agreement totaling $3,520,260 as of June 30, 2017, with PNC Bank for certain energy improvements, at a fixed tax-exempt rate of 4.38%, maturing in 2022. In addition, the City has in place a Master Lease agreement with Bank of America at a fixed interest rate of 3.765%, maturing in 2020. This agreement, of which $854,609 is outstanding as of June 30, 2017, was issued for Coliseum energy improvements.
The City has a grand total of $16,535,809 in master lease agreements and installment financings to finance energy improvements, property acquisitions, and other improvements. The City also has a total of $15,045,455 in capital leases primarily for information technology systems.
In 2015, the City issued $3,578,000 HUD Section 108 Series 2015A notes and refinanced Series 2002A, 2003A and 2006 S. Elm Street interim notes. These notes bear interest at fixed rates ranging from 2.78 to 8.12% maturing in 2026. Total notes outstanding as of June 30, 2017 for HUD funding are $4,222,000 with an original commitment of $10,461,000.
E-71 In July 2005, the City merged fire operation with Rural Fire District #14 located in eastern Guilford County and assumed an outstanding obligation of $422,898 at a fixed rate of 5.75% maturing in August 2019 which is collateralized by the District’s real property. The outstanding amount as of June 30, 2017 is $82,418.
Lease Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Debt Service Requirements to Maturity are:
Governmental Activities Business-Type Activities Annual Requirements Annual Requirements (1) Fiscal Year Principal Interest Principal Interest Total 2017-18 $ 3,045,159 $ 813,120 $ 12,485,337 $ 335,140 $ 16,678,756 2018-19 4,028,165 684,117 347,308 19,962 5,079,552 2019-20 3,458,231 540,884 182,904 3,443 4,185,462 2020-21 3,060,677 415,443 3,476,120 2021-22 3,070,250 266,340 2022-26 6,207,641 468,768 6,676,409 $ 22,870,123 $ 3,188,672 $ 13,015,549 $ 358,545 $ 36,096,299
(1)Installment financing agreement of $12,160,940 included is scheduled to mature in Fiscal 2018.
E-72 11. Changes in Long-Term debt are as follows:
Long-term liability activity for the year ended June 30, 2017, was as follows:
Beginning Ending Due Within Balance Additions Reductions Balance(1) One Year Governmental Activities: Bonds and Notes Payable: General Obligation Bonds $ 137,950,000 $ 62,590,000 $ (33,510,000) $ 167,030,000 $ 14,300,000 Premium on General Obligation Bonds 4,034,010 10,500,223 (1,661,099) 12,873,134 2,198,888 General Obligation Bond Anticipation Notes 31,023,007 37,474,308 (50,000,000) 18,497,315 Limited Obligation Bonds 23,860,000 (610,000) 23,250,000 630,000 Premium on Limited Obligation Bonds 1,484,548 (102,503) 1,382,045 102,503 Limited Obligation Notes 1,057,318 10,265,798 11,323,116 Certificates of Participation 5,930,000 (290,000) 5,640,000 305,000 Premium on Certificates of Participation 332,719 (43,014) 289,705 43,014 Section 108 HUD Loan 4,822,000 (600,000) 4,222,000 610,000 Fire Station Loan 120,297 (37,879) 82,418 40,057 Master Lease Agreement 3,977,220 (456,960) 3,520,260 507,660 Total Debt Payable 214,591,119 120,830,329 (87,311,455) 248,109,993 18,737,122
Other Liabilities Net Pension Liability (LGERS)(3) 10,204,742 35,730,536 45,935,278 Net Pension Liability (LEOSSA)(3)(4) 25,080,559 (71,304) 25,009,255 Other Post Employment Benefits Payable 5,655,408 3,968,036 9,623,444 Capital Leases 3,212,729 13,749,746 (1,917,030) 15,045,445 1,887,442 Compensated Absences(2) 12,078,438 8,133,237 (7,682,315) 12,529,360 7,277,193 Governmental Activity (1) Long-Term Liability $ 270,822,995 $ 182,411,884 $ (96,982,104) $ 356,252,775 $ 27,901,757
Beginning Ending Due Within Balance Additions Reductions Balance One Year Business-Type Activities: Bonds and Notes Payable: Special Obligation Bonds $ 2,930,000 $ $ (680,000) $ 2,250,000 $ 715,000 Revenue Bonds 224,630,000 (13,640,000) 210,990,000 14,295,000 Premium on Revenue Bonds 10,875,157 (2,602,943) 8,272,214 2,094,479 Revenue Bond Anticipation Notes 18,496,701 22,841,675 41,338,376 41,338,376 Master Lease Agreement 1,157,227 (302,618) 854,609 324,397 Installment Lease Agreement - Performing Arts 12,147,306 13,634 12,160,940 12,160,940 Total Debt Payable 270,236,391 22,855,309 (17,225,561) 275,866,139 70,928,192 Other Liabilities Net Pension Liability (LGERS)(3) 1,936,931 6,509,017 8,445,948 Other Post Employment Benefits Payable(3) 1,108,488 593,825 1,702,313 Accrued Landfill Liability 25,601,702 452,427 26,054,129 500,000 Compensated Absences 2,149,146 1,694,360 (1,678,397) 2,165,109 1,386,083 Business-Type Activity Long-Term Liability $ 301,032,658 $ 32,104,938 $ (18,903,958) $ 314,233,638 $ 72,814,275
The gross amount of assets acquired under capital leases at June 30, 2017, represents computer and communication equipment and amortization is included in depreciation expense over the lease period.
1 Internal Service Funds predominately serve the governmental funds. Accordingly, the related long term liabilities are included as part of the above totals for governmental activities. The Internal Service Funds debt totals are noted below.
2The General Fund primarily is used to liquidate the liabilities for compensated absences associated with governmental activities.
E-73 3The General Fund primarily is used to liquidate the liabilities for the net pension liability and other post-employment benefits associated with governmental activities.
4The June 30, 2016 balance has been restated to included net pension liability from the implementation of GASB Statement No. 73.
Debt obligations recorded in the War Memorial Coliseum Enterprise Fund, not contemplated to be repaid with the Fund’s own resources, are reported as general government debt for financial reporting purposes, according to guidance in NCGAS Statement No. 1.
Ending Balance Internal Service Funds: Bonds and Notes Payable: General Obligation Bonds Payable$ 1,242,334 Premium - General Obligation Bonds Payable 79,345 Total Debt Payable 1,321,679 Other Liabilities: Capital Leases 15,045,445 Other Financing Agreements 3,520,260 Compensated Absences 949,658 Pension & OPEB 4,004,509 Internal Service Fund Long-Term Liability $ 24,841,551
Hedging Derivatives and Associated Hedged Debt
Using rates as of June 30, 2017, debt service requirements of the variable-rate debt and net swap payments assuming current interest rates remain the same for the term, were as follows. As rates vary, variable-rate bond interest payments and net swap payments will vary. The hedging derivative instruments column reflects only net receipts/payments on derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting.
FY Ending Variable Rate Bonds Interest Rate Swaps (1) (2) June 30 Principal Interest Net Total 2018 $ $ 52,440 $ 150,480 $ 202,920 2019 2,740,000 52,440 150,480 2,942,920 2020 2,960,000 27,232 78,144 3,065,376 $ 5,700,000 $ 132,112 $ 379,104 $ 6,211,216
(1) Computed at 0.92% at June 30, 2017 (2) Computed at 3.46% less 67% of 1 Month LIBOR (0.82%) at June 30, 2017
E-74 Derivative Instrument Summary
At June 30, 2017 the City had the following hedging derivative instrument outstanding:
Changes in Fair Value Notional Effective Maturity Fair Value at 6/30/17 Classification Amount Amount Date Date Classification Amount Governmental Activities:
Cash Flow Hedges Objective: Hedge of changes in cash flows on the 1998 Series GO Bonds specifically related to changes in municipal tax-exempt interest rates.
Pay-fixed interest Deferred $ 248,541 $ 5,700,000 10/8/2002 4/1/2020 Debt$ (318,402) rate swaps, receive Outflow variable rate
H. Annual Leave and Sick Leave
The City’s policy permits employees to accumulate up to 30 days of earned but unused annual leave, which would be paid to employees upon separation from the City. Accumulated annual leave at June 30, 2017 amounted to $14,694,469 of which $12,529,360 relates to Governmental Activities and $2,165,109 relates to Business-Type Activities. Changes in accumulated annual leave are as follows:
Balance Current Year Balance Due Within Fund Type 7/1/2016 Increase Decrease 6/30/2017 One Year
Governmental Activities$ 12,078,438 $ 8,133,237 $ (7,682,315) $ 12,529,360 $ 7,277,193 Business-Type Activities 2,149,146 1,694,361 (1,678,398) 2,165,109 1,386,083 $ 14,227,584 $ 9,827,598 $ (9,360,713) $ 14,694,469 $ 8,663,276
Greensboro ABC Board employees may accumulate up to 20 days earned leave. The balance of the accumulated leave liability is not considered to be material. Operations of the GHDP are performed by employees of the City. Accordingly, there is no recorded liability for employee leave amounts for GHDP at June 30, 2017. GTA leave liability is $53,231.
City employees had accumulated sick leave benefits of $60,835,717 at June 30, 2017, based on compensation rates in effect on that date. Sick leave does not vest, but any unused sick leave accumulated at the time of retirement may be used in the determination of length of service for retirement benefit. Since the City has no obligation for the accumulated sick leave until it is actually taken, no accrual has been made for sick leave. The same policy is followed by the Greensboro ABC Board.
V. Other Information
A. Risk Management
The City is exposed to various risks of loss related to torts; theft of, damage to, and destruction of assets; errors and omissions; injuries to employees; and natural disasters. The City protects itself from potential loss through a combination of purchased commercial insurance for primary and/or excess liability coverage and self-funded risk retention. Self-funded risks are primarily for health, employee workers’ compensation, general, professional, law enforcement, vehicle and underground storage tank liabilities.
The City purchases Flood Insurance coverage through the Blanket Property insurance policy with an annual aggregate flood limit of $100,000,000 with deductibles ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 per location depending on the size and location of the facility. One location is covered solely by the City’s self-funded insurance plan. The City has not had a flood loss in the past 30 plus years that amounted to more than $100,000.
Bonding in the following amounts is held for City employees involved in financial transactions: Finance Officer, $100,000, Tax Collector, $100,000, and Employee Blanket Bond, $75,000.
E-75 All operating funds of the City participate in the risk management program and make payments to the Employee Risk Retention Fund and the General Risk Retention Fund based on the funds’ historical claims experience. Payments are for prior and current year claims and to establish a reserve for catastrophic losses.
Claims liabilities are reported when it is probable that a loss has occurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities include an amount for claims that have been incurred but are not reported (IBNR’s), based on actuarial computations. Settled claims have not exceeded self–retained or purchased insurance coverage in any of the past three fiscal years.
1. Employee Risk Retention
The City provides for health, dental, life and workers’ compensation benefits in its Employee Risk Retention Fund.
The City’s health plan currently offers two plan options through a self-funded program, and a dental plan and vision plan is administered for employees and their covered dependents, supplemented by employee contributions.
Term life insurance for employees is provided by the City for the term of employment, at no cost to the employee. The amount of coverage is based on salary. For those dependents covered by the health plan, the City also provides a reduced coverage term life insurance policy at no cost to the employee. For the life plan, the City pays its contribution directly to the insurer.
The City is self-funded for workers’ compensation for claims up to $1,100,000 per occurrence. Claims in excess of the retention are covered through a combination of purchased insurance and self-funding participation.
The City’s contributions toward employee costs are accounted for as expenditures when the funds are contributed to the Employee Risk Retention Fund.
2. General Risk Retention
The City’s General Risk Retention Fund includes five separate funds in the Local Government Excess Liability Fund, Inc. (ELF) to self-fund certain types of liability claims. Up until December 31, 1999, the ELF was structured to provide varying tiers of funding, with pre-determined contribution rates, limits of coverage, repayment schedules and certain levels of transfer of risk from the five local governments and school members represented by the ELF. Annual contributions by members are periodically reviewed by the Board of Directors and the Executive Director of the ELF.
Effective January 1, 2000, the ELF was reorganized and the resulting structure provides for no transfer of risk from any of the member units to the ELF. Fund balances are segregated by member and in the event of loss, those amounts are available for claims payment by the respective member, on either a loan or withdrawal basis. The new structure of the ELF is considered to be similar to a claims-servicing arrangement. The ELF Revolving Fund – Primary Liability Coverage pays amounts in excess of $100,000 up to $5,000,000 per occurrence, with an aggregated available for the City of $9,022,001 as of June 30, 2017. Additional amounts of $1,268,789 are recorded in the ELF for payment of City claims.
In addition, a new tier of coverage was established in the ELF in April 2007, to replace purchased Excess Liability coverage and to support General Liability claims. The balance on deposit as of June 30, 2017 is $4,650,510. Accordingly, including these balances, a total of $13,789,367 is included in the City’s General Risk Retention Fund as insurance deposits.
The City is also a member of the Local Government Property Insurance Deductible Fund, Inc. The City purchases Replacement Cost property insurance with a $100,000 deductible for most losses. Property losses up to $100,000 per occurrence are paid by the Fund after application of a $10,000 deductible requirement.
Property insurance coverage above the annual retention provides for up to 100% replacement cost, limited to $500,000,000 per occurrence. In Fiscal Year 2017, the City contributed $350,000 to the Property Deductible Fund. At June 30, 2017 following distribution of net earnings to individual accounts for respective members, the fund held deposits of $855,778 payable to the City of Greensboro for payment of future claims.
The City has the right to withdraw its contributions in the Revolving Fund – Primary Liability Coverage, the Self-Retention Fund, the Excess Liability Fund and the Revolving Fund – Employers, Liability/Workers’ Compensation of the Local Government Excess Liability Fund, Inc. and the Local Government Property Insurance Deductible Fund, Inc. when all claims against the Funds have been settled and all legal obligations have been paid for each claims year.
E-76 3. Reconciliation of Claims Liability
Changes in the City’s claims liability balance during Fiscal Years 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
Employee General Risk Risk Total Total Retention Retention 2016-17 2015-16
Balance-July 1 $ 9,628,392 $ 7,456,958 $ 17,085,350 $ 12,371,391 Add: Incurred Claims (including) IBNR's and Changes in Estimates 40,663,105 1,841,852 42,504,957 46,949,047 Deduct: Claims Payments (39,933,600) (4,578,724) (44,512,325) (42,235,088)
Balance - June 30 $ 10,357,897 $ 4,720,086 $ 15,077,982 $ 17,085,350
B. Subsequent Events
The City has evaluated subsequent events through November 21, 2017 in connection with the preparation of these financial statements, which is the date the financial statements were available to be issued.
On July 26, 2017 the City sold the Series 2017A revenue bonds of approximately $70.5 million with an average fixed interest cost of 3.27% over their 30-year term this included refunding the $50 million revenue bond anticipation note and $20 million of new money. The City also sold $31.6 million of Series 2017B revenue refunding bonds which refunded the 2009A revenue bonds from 2009 with an average fixed interest cost of 2.16% over their remaining 14-year term. The bonds were rated AAA, Aa1, and AAA by Fitch Ratings, Moody’s Investors Service, and S&P Global, respectively.
In order to improve efficiency, the City has invested in the expansion of the TZO Wastewater Reclamation Facility. With the expansion and consolidation of operations, the City plans to decommission the North Buffalo Wastewater Reclamation Facility on January 1, 2018. The sight will still serve as a sewage lift station. In order to improve efficiency, the City has invested in the expansion of the TZO Wastewater Reclamation Facility. With the expansion and consolidation of operations, the City has discontinued water treatment operations at the North Buffalo Wastewater Reclamation Facility as of October 31, 2017. The site will still serve as a pump and equalization station and house certain administrative functions.
C. Commitments and Contingencies
1. Legalities
The City is party to a number of civil lawsuits and other legal actions. Most of these lawsuits involve construction contracts, public right of way management, and personnel issues. In the opinion of the City’s Attorney and management, the ultimate outcome of these suits is not expected to have significant impact upon the City’s financial position.
E-77 2. Authorized capital projects at June 30, 2017 are comprised of the following:
Project Expended Through Unexpended Authorization June 30, 2017 Authorization Governmental Funds: (1) Special Revenue $ 50,870,179 $ 36,853,441 $ 14,016,738 Capital Projects 537,674,880 269,727,701 267,947,179 $ 588,545,059 $ 306,581,142 $ 281,963,917
Enterprise Funds: Water Resources $ 382,690,037 $ 301,246,673 $ 81,443,364 Stormwater Management 16,369,756 10,325,923 6,043,833 Coliseum 66,616,258 55,954,346 10,661,912 Solid Waste Management 8,329,433 7,967,759 361,674 Other Non-Major Enterprise Fund 6,360,810 2,549,002 3,811,808 $ 480,366,294 $ 378,043,703 $ 102,322,591
Component Units: GTA $ 12,557,265 $ 9,726,774 $ 2,830,491
(1) Includes Powell Bill Transportation Projects.
3. Financial Assistance Programs
The City participates in a number of Federal and State financial assistance programs. For the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2017, these programs were subject to audit in accordance with the Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996, the new Uniform Grant Guidance and the State Single Audit Implementation Act. The amount, if any, of expenditures which may be disallowed by the granting agencies resulting from this and other audits cannot be determined at this time, although the City expects such amounts if any, to be immaterial.
4. Operating Lease Agreement – ABC Board
The Greensboro ABC Board has operating leases agreements for various store and office properties. Rental expense for the year ended June 30, 2017 totaled $637,345. Future lease payments, less payments under sublease agreement, are as follows:
Lease Fiscal Year Payments 2017-18$ 410,000 2018-19 341,600 2019-20 188,000 2020-21 180,200 2021-22 90,000 $ 1,209,800
E-78 Operating Lease Payments
The City has operating lease payments for computers, printers, software/licenses, maintenance and workstations. Lease payments for the year ended June 30, 2017 totaled $1,486,945. Future lease payments are as follows:
Lease Fiscal Year Payments 2017-18$ 1,496,039 2018-19 958,106 2019-20 258,764 2020-21 7,883 $ 2,720,792
5. Contingencies
The City is involved in certain lawsuits with former members of the Greensboro Police Department. The City will defend these suits and claims vigorously, and although no assurances can be given as to the ultimate outcome of these matters, the City’s legal counsel is of the opinion that any possible liability of the City resulting from an adverse adjudication in such matters would not have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the City.
D. Joint Venture
Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority (Authority)
The City in conjunction with five other governmental entities formed the Authority in September 1987 to develop a regional water supply. The Authority’s board is composed of ten members, three of which are appointed by the City Council. The joint venture agreement provided that each participant annually contribute funds to acquire land, a reservoir and to construct the Randleman Dam. The reservoir, dam and water treatment plant projects are complete and water began flowing through the system to Greensboro in October, 2010. The City’s funding share was originally 59.4%, or $33,858,000, based on a percentage of future raw water allocations. Initial City contributions, funded from the Water and Sewer Capital Reserve Fund, total $34,063,761, including $205,761 for staff administration and equipment fees paid from City operations. Additional cash payments were subsequently made on a pay-as-you-go basis to further fund reservoir, infrastructure, water treatment plant construction and other improvements for a total net Greensboro investment of $77,033,224, net of amortization of $12,113,915 as of June 30, 2017. The City contributed annual member dues in the amount of $897,106 in FY 2017 to cover the Authority’s administrative and operating costs.
In December 2004, the City received a reimbursement of $5,244,257 from Randolph County to acquire a portion of Greensboro’s future raw water allocation which effectively reduced the City’s share of the project to 53.1%.
The City, on average, receives 7.4 million gallons per day from this source. In 2016 the water plant expanded capacity from 12.675 Million Gallons per Day (MGD) to 14.7 MGD, effectively increasing the City’s allocation to 7.83 MGD, as authorized by City Council on July 19, 2016. Total planned plant capacity is 48 MGD. The City’s investment is reported in the Water Resources Enterprise Fund as an Intangible Asset, representing future water rights, amortized over a 50-year term. According to the joint venture agreement, the participating governments do not have an equity interest in the joint venture, but rather rights to purchase future water from the project. Complete financial statements for the Authority may be obtained from the Authority’s administrative office at P.O. Box 1326 Randleman, NC 27317.
E. Jointly Governed Organization
Greensboro/Guilford County Tourism Development Authority (Authority)
The City, in conjunction with Guilford County (County), established the Authority to promote regional tourism. The City appoints five members of the Authority’s thirteen-member board. The Authority receives a percentage of room occupancy taxes which are levied on gross receipts from rental accommodations within the County.
E-79 The tax is levied at 6% for establishments within the City limits of Greensboro, of which 3% is levied by the City and 3% is levied by the County. The City contributes 20% of its portion to the Authority. During Fiscal Year 2016-17, the City levied $5,043,070 in room occupancy taxes, of which $1,008,614 was remitted to the Authority for travel and tourism promotion, net of a 1% collection fee paid to the County.
Piedmont Triad Regional Council (Council)
The City, in conjunction with 6 counties and 25 other municipalities, established the Piedmont Triad Regional Council. The participating governments established the Council to coordinate various funding received from Federal and State agencies. Each participating government appoints one member to the Council’s governing board. The City paid membership fees of $58,968 to the Council during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017.
Piedmont Triad Airport Authority (Authority)
The City has an agreement with the Authority in which it appoints one member to the board. The City has no financial obligation or investment in the operation of the Airport Authority. Complete financial statements for the Authority may be obtained through the Authority, 100A Ted Johnson Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27409.
Guilford County Economic Development Alliance (Alliance)
The City, in conjunction with Guilford County and the City of High Point founded the Alliance in 2016. The Alliance was founded to coordinate and align all economic development recruitment and retention activities, to enhance economic conditions within the county and the region, and present a united message to all corporate development prospects. All participants have an equal representation on the Alliance’s Leadership Council and contribute an equal amount of funding. The City contributed $100,000 in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017.
F. Related Organization
Greensboro Housing Authority (Authority)
The Authority was created to provide affordable housing for citizens with limited income. Although all of the members of the governing body of the Authority are appointed by the Mayor, the City has no decision in selecting the management of the Authority. Financial transactions between the City and the Authority reflect contractual agreements between the parties for the provision of services by the City. The City is not responsible for any deficits nor is it entitled to any surpluses of the Authority. The City does not significantly influence the operations of the Authority, and the Authority is not accountable to the City for its fiscal matters.
G. Other Postemployment Benefits (OPEB)
Plan Description and Benefits Provided
In addition to the pension benefits described in Note I, the City also provides postemployment benefits to retirees under a single-employer plan (“The Plan”), provided they participate in the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees Retirement System (NCLGERS), and are actively employed with the City at the time of retirement. In order to receive any benefits, retirees must have achieved 20 years of active service with the City or have reached age 60 with 5 years of active service. Healthcare, prescription drug coverage, as well as retiree and dependent life insurance are provided in the City’s Plan. Health and prescription drug coverage ends once the retiree reaches age 65 or becomes Medicare eligible, whichever comes first. The City and retirees share the cost of healthcare, based on years of service at retirement. Approximately 80% is paid by the City for 30 years of service, with less subsidy provided for fewer years of service. Dental coverage is available at full cost to the retiree. Retirees may keep their dental insurance for life. Life insurance benefits of up to $20,000 are provided to retirees until age 65, except for those retirees who were hired before March 1, 1975 (receive $2,000 at age 65 for life). Dependent coverage for each of the benefits in the Plan is available, if enrolled at the time of the employee’s retirement, at full cost to the retiree, with the exception of certain life insurance coverage. In addition, if the retiree ceases to have coverage or dies, dependent coverage will terminate. The City Council may amend the benefit provisions with a resolution. The City has elected to partially pre-pay the future overall cost of coverage for these benefits by establishing a Trust arrangement according to General Statutes
E-80 159-30.1(b). Management of the plan is vested in three Trustees, the City Manager, the Director of Finance and the Director of Human Resources, appointed by the City Council.
Plan Membership
Membership of the Plan consisted of the following at June 30, 2016, the date of the latest actuarial valuation:
Law General Enforcement Employees Officers Firefighters Retirees Total Retirees receiving benefits 1,544 1,544 Active plan members 1,657 638 533 2,828 Total 1,657 638 533 1,544 4,372
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Postemployment claims and premiums expenditures are made from the Employee Risk Retention Fund (Internal Service Fund), which is maintained on the accrual basis of accounting. Internal charges are made to various other City funds for the respective active employees, based upon the pre-determined City contribution rate. Short-term money market instruments and deposits are reported at cost or amortized cost, which approximates fair value as of June 30, 2017. Certain longer term securities are valued at estimated market value, as determined by the State Treasurer. Administration costs of the OPEB Investment Fund are determined by inter-agency agreement with the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer.
Contributions
The City will contribute toward the cost of the eligible retiree health and life insurance coverage based on the years of service at retirement. Dental coverage is provided at full cost to the retiree. The City has chosen to fund the healthcare benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis, with additional amounts contributed to prefund benefits, determined annually by management.
The current Annual Required Contribution (“ARC”) or $9,701,120 is 7.07% of annual covered payroll. For the current year, the City contributed $5,155,834 (or 3.8% of annual covered payroll) toward actual benefit payments. The City obtains health care and dental coverage through a self-funded program and through a private insurer for life insurance benefits. The City’s obligation to contribute to the Plan is established and may be amended by the City Council during the budget process per the City annual budget ordinance. Determination of the amounts contributed by the City and retirees is made by the Employee Benefit Executive Committee, annually, upon review of current costs and trends. The Plan is accounted for as an OPEB Benefit Trust Fund.
Investment Policy and Long-Term Expected Rate of Return
Investment of the OPEB Trust funds are made pursuant to a Deposit Agreement with the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer. The State Treasurer in his discretion may invest the proceeds in equities of certain publicly held companies and long or short term fixed income investments as detailed in G.S. 147-69.2(b) (1-6) and (8). Funds deposited are held in the State Treasurer’s Equity Index Fund, 62.88%, Bond Index Fund, 35.94%, and the Short Term Investment Fund, 1.18%. At June 30, 2017, the Plan assets totaled $17,379,922. A separate report was not issued for the Plan.
The Plan’s investment policy, adopted by the City Council in April 2017, allows for investment in instruments authorized by G. S. 159-30 as well as investments available to the North Carolina State Treasurer when managing funds with the same purpose. The investment policy may be amended by a majority vote of Council members. The following was the City Council’s adopted asset allocation policy as of June 30, 2017: Target Long-Term Expected Asset Class Allocation Real Rate of Return
Equity Index Fund 60.0% 4.46% Bond Index Fund 40.0% 0.64% Total 100.0%
E-81 Investments in the Bond Index Fund with concentrations of more than 5% of the total portfolio represented the “Industrial” and “Mortgages” sectors.
For the year-ended June 30, 2017, the annual money-weighted rate of return on Plan investments, net of investment expense, was 9.20%. The money-weighted rate of return expresses investment performance, net of investment expense, adjusted for the changing amounts actually invested. Investments are valued at fair market value.
The projected long-term investment returns and inflation assumptions are developed through review of current and historical capital markets data, sell-side investment research, consultant whitepapers, and historical performance of investment strategies. Best estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return are developed for each major asset class. These projections are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class as of June 30, 2017 are summarized in the table above.
The long-term nominal rates of return underlying the real rates of return are 10-year geometric compounded annualized figures. The real rates of return are calculated from nominal rates by multiplicatively adjusting for a long-term inflation assumption of 2.19%. All rates of return and inflation are annualized.
Net OPEB Liability of the City
The components of the net OPEB liability of the City at June 30, 2017 were as follows:
Total OPEB liability $ 148,402,967 Plan fiduciary net position 17,379,922 City's net OPEB liability $ 131,023,045
Plan fiduciary net position as a percentage of the total OPEB liability 11.71%
E-82 Actuarial Assumptions
The total OPEB liability was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2016 using the following actuarial assumptions applied to periods included in the measurement, unless otherwise specified:
Inflation 3.00% Real wage growth 0.50% Wage inflation 3.50%
Salary increases, including wage inflation General employees 3.50% - 7.75% Firefighters 3.50% - 7.75% Law enforcement officers 3.50% - 7.35%
Long-term investment rate of return (LIRR), net of OPEB 5.50% plan investment expense, including price inflation
Municipal bond index rate Prior measurement date 3.01% Measurement date 3.56%
Year Fiduciary net position is projected to be depleted Prior measurement date 2024 Measurement date 2024
Single equivalent interest rate (SEIR), net of OPEB plan investment expense, including price inflation Prior measurement date 3.12% Measurement date 3.66%
Health care cost trends Pre-medicare 7.75% for 2016 decreasing to an ultimate rate of 5.00% by 2022
Mortality rates were based on the RP-2014 mortality tables, with adjustments for LGERS experience and generational mortality improvements using Scale MP-2015.
The demographic actuarial assumptions for retirement, disability incidence, withdrawal, and salary increases used in the June 30, 2016 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2014, adopted by the LGERS.
Discount rate
The discount rate used to measure the total OPEB liability was based on the LIRR and the SEIR. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from employers will be made to pay benefits directly to Plan members as they come due and to contribute $500,000 to the OPEB Benefit Trust each year. Based on these assumptions, the Plan’s fiduciary net positon was projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of the current Plan members until 2024. Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on OPEB investments was applied to those periods of projected benefit payments and then the SEIR was used to determine the total OPEB liability.
E-83 Sensitivity of the City’s net OPEB liability to changes in the discount rate The following presents the City’s net OPEB liability calculated using the discount rate of 3.66 percent, as well as what the City’s net OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower (2.66 percent) or one percentage point higher (4.66 percent) than the current rate:
1% Discount 1% Decrease Rate Increase (2.66%) (3.66%) (4.66%)
Net OPEB Liability $ 145,955,523 $ 131,023,045 $ 117,663,743
Sensitivity of the net OPEB liability to changes in healthcare cost trends
The following presents the net OPEB liability of the City, as well as what the City’s net OPEB liability would be if it were to calculate healthcare cost trend rates that are 1% point lower or 1% point higher than the current healthcare cost trend rates:
1% Healthcare Cost 1% Decrease Trend Rate Increase (6.75%) (7.75%) (8.75%)
$ 113,269,986 $ 131,023,045 $ 152,216,659
Annual OPEB Cost and Net OPEB Obligation
The City’s annual OPEB cost (expense) is calculated based on the annual required contribution of the employer (ARC), an amount actuarially determined in accordance with the parameters of GASB Statement No. 45. The ARC represents a level of funding that, if paid on an ongoing basis is projected to cover normal cost each year and amortize any unfunded actuarial liabilities (or funding excess) over a period not to exceed thirty years. The following table shows the components of the City’s annual OPEB cost, the amount actually contributed to the Plan, and changes in the City’s net OPEB obligation for postemployment benefits for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2017:
Annual Required Contribution $ 9,701,120 Interest on Net Pension Obligation 372,014 Adjustment to Annual Required Contribution (355,439) Annual OPEB Cost (expense) 9,717,695 Contributions Made (5,155,834) Increase (decrease) in Net OPEB Obligation 4,561,861 Net OPEB Obligation-Beginning of Year 6,763,896 Net OPEB Obligation-End of Year $ 11,325,757
The City’s annual OPEB cost, the percentage of annual OPEB cost contributed to the Plan, and the net OPEB obligation/ (asset) were as follows:
Fiscal Year Annual OPEB Percentage of Annual Net OPEB Ending Cost OPEB Cost Contributed Obligation
6/30/2015$ 8,429,516 81.8%$ 2,754,352 6/30/2016 8,743,851 54.1% 6,763,896 6/30/2017 9,717,695 53.1% 11,325,757
E-84 Funded Status and Funding Progress
As of the June 30, 2016 report, the most recent actuarial valuation date, the Plan was partially funded at 14.1%. The actuarial accrued liability for benefits was $107,980,074 and the actuarial value of the assets was $15,182,164 resulting in an unfunded actuarial accrued liability (UAAL) of $92,797,910. The estimated covered payroll (annual payroll of active employees covered by the Plan) was $137,120,463 and the ratio of the UAAL to the covered payroll was 67.7%. Actuarial valuations of an ongoing plan involve estimates of the value of reported amounts and assumptions about the probability of occurrence of events far into the future. Examples include assumptions about future employment, mortality, and health care trends. Amounts determined regarding the funded status of the Plan and the annual required contributions of the employer are subject to continual revision as actual results are compared with past expectation and new estimates are made about the future. The Schedule of Funding Progress, presented as required supplementary information following the notes to the financial statements, presents multiyear trend information about whether the actuarial value of Plan assets is increasing or decreasing over time relative to the actuarial accrued liabilities for benefits.
Actuarial Methods and Assumptions
Projections of benefits for financial reporting purposes are based on the substantive Plan (the Plan as understood by the employer and the Plan members) and include the types of benefits provided at the time of each valuation and the historical pattern of sharing of benefit costs between the employer and Plan members at that point. The actuarial methods and assumptions used include techniques that are designed to reduce the effects of short-term volatility in actuarial accrued liabilities and the actuarial value of assets, consistent with the long-term perspective of the calculations.
In the June 30, 2016 actuarial valuation, the projected unit credit actuarial cost method was used. The actuarial assumptions included a 5.5% investment rate of return which is the expected long-term investment return on the Trust assets calculated based on the funded level of the Plan at the valuation date, and an annual medical cost trend decrease of 7.75% to 5.00% annually. Both rates included a 3.00% inflation assumption. The actuarial value of assets, if any, was determined using a market valuation. The UAAL is being amortized as a level percentage of projected payroll on a closed basis. The remaining amortization period at June 30, 2016, was 25 years.
H. Deferred Compensation
The City offers all of its employees a Deferred Compensation Plan (Plan) in accordance with Internal Revenue Code Section 457 and 401. The Plan, available to permanent City employees, permits them to defer a portion of their salary until future years. The deferred compensation is not available to employees until termination, retirement, death or unforeseeable emergency.
The City has complied with changes in laws which govern the City’s Plan, requiring all assets of the Plan to be held in trust, custodial accounts or into annuity contracts for the exclusive benefit of participants and their beneficiaries. Effective January 1, 1999, the City entered in a trust arrangement in compliance with GASB Statement No. 32, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Internal Code Section 457 Deferred Compensation Plans. All transactions are administered by third party administrators and accordingly, Plan assets are not included in the City’s financial statements.
The City contributes 3.25% of salary for participating full time employees to the 401(a) Plan. The City also contributes an additional 1.75% to a 401(a) plan prior to FICA deduction of salary if applicable, for those engaged in firefighting, if firefighters choose to defer at least 1.75% of their salary, as well. Those employees engaged in law enforcement may participate in the 457 Plan, however, no City contributions are made on their behalf, but instead, the City contributes 5% of salary to the 401(k) Defined Contribution Pension Plan. All employees may defer amounts in the 457 Plan, administered by ICMA- Retirement Corporation, and the 401(k) Plan, administered by Prudential Retirement for the State of North Carolina and its subdivisions, up to the maximum allowed by the Internal Revenue Service each year. The employee receives credit for his contribution as well as the City’s, and benefits are based on the total assets owned in the employee’s individual accounts. The fair market value of the deferred compensation accounts of employees through the year ended June 30, 2017 was $140,877,197 consisting of $99,812,162 (457), $22,976,558 (401(a)), and $18,088,477 (401(k)).
E-85 I. Pension Plan Obligations
1. Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System
Plan Description
The City of Greensboro is a participating employer in the statewide Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System (LGERS), a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan administered by the State of North Carolina. LGERS membership is comprised of general employees and local law enforcement officers (LEOs) of participating local governmental entities. Article 3 of GS Chapter 128 assigns the authority to establish and amend benefit provisions to the North Carolina General Assembly. Management of the plan is vested in the LGERS Board of Trustees, which consists of 13 members – nine appointed by the Governor, one appointed by the State Senate, one appointed by the State House of Representatives, and the State Treasurer and State Superintendent, who serve as ex-officio members. The Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System is included in the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the State of North Carolina. The State’s CAFR includes financial statements and required supplementary information for LGERS. That report may be obtained by writing to the Office of the State Controller, 1410 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1410, by calling (919) 981-5454, or at www.osc.nc.gov.
Benefits Provided
LGERS provides retirement and survivor benefits. Retirement benefits are determined as 1.85% of the member’s average final compensation times the member’s years of creditable service. A member’s average final compensation is calculated as the average of a member’s four highest consecutive years of compensation. Plan members are eligible to retire with full retirement benefits at age 65 with five years of creditable service, at age 60 with 25 years of creditable service, or at any age with 30 years of creditable service. Plan members are eligible to retire with partial retirement benefits at age 50 with 20 years of creditable service or at age 60 with five years of creditable service (age 55 for firefighters). Survivor benefits are available to eligible beneficiaries of members who die while in active service or within 180 days of their last day of service and who have either completed 20 years of creditable service regardless of age (15 years of creditable service for firefighters and rescue squad members who are killed in the line of duty) or have completed five years of service and have reached age 60. Eligible beneficiaries may elect to receive a monthly Survivor’s Alternate Benefit for life or return of the member’s contributions. The plan does not provide for automatic post-retirement benefit increases. Increases are contingent upon actuarial gains of the plan.
LGERS plan members who are LEOs are eligible to retire with full retirement benefits at age 55 with five years of creditable service as an officer, or at any age with 30 years of creditable service. LEO plan members are eligible to retire with partial retirement benefits at age 50 with 15 years of creditable service as an officer. Survivor benefits are available to eligible beneficiaries of LEO members who die while in active service or within 180 days of their last day of service and who also have either completed 20 years of creditable service regardless of age, or have completed 15 years of service as a LEO and have reached age 50, or have completed five years of creditable service as a LEO and have reached age 55, or have completed 15 years of creditable service as a LEO if killed in the line of duty. Eligible beneficiaries may elect to receive a monthly Survivor’s Alternate Benefit for life or a return of the member’s contributions.
Contributions
Contribution provisions are established by General Statute 128-30 and may be amended only by the North Carolina General Assembly. City of Greensboro employees are required to contribute 6% of their compensation. Employer contributions are actuarially determined and set annually by the LGERS Board of Trustees. The City of Greensboro’s contractually required contribution rate for the year ended June 30, 2017, was 8% of compensation for law enforcement officers and 7.33% for general employees and firefighters, actuarially determined as an amount that, when combined with employee contributions, is expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year. Contributions to the pension plan from the City of Greensboro were $10,760,050 for the year ended June 30, 2017.
Refunds of Contributions
City employees who have terminated service as a contributing member of LGERS, may file an application for a refund of their contributions. By state law, refunds to members with at least five years of service include 4% interest. State law requires a 60 day waiting period after service termination before the refund may be paid. The acceptance of a refund payment cancels the individual’s right to employer contributions or any other benefit provided by LGERS.
E-86 Pension Liabilities, Pension Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
At June 30, 2017, the City reported a liability of $54,381,226 for its proportionate share of the net pension liability. The net pension liability was measured as of June 30, 2016. The total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was determined by an actuarial valuation as of December 31, 2015. The total pension liability was then rolled forward to the measurement date of June 30, 2016 utilizing update procedures incorporating the actuarial assumptions. The City’s proportion of the net pension liability was based on a projection of the City’s long-term share of future payroll covered by the pension plan, relative to the projected future payroll covered by the pension plan of all participating LGERS employers, actuarially determined. At June 30, 2016, the City’s proportion was 2.56% which was a decrease of .14% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2015.
For the year ended June 30, 2017, the City recognized pension expense of $14,104,924. At June 30, 2017, the City reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions from the following sources:
Deferred Outflows Deferred Inflows of Resources of Resources
Differences between expected and actual experience $ 1,021,729 $ 1,905,579 Changes of assumptions 3,724,629 Net difference between projected and actual earnings on pension plan investments 30,065,971 Changes in proportion and differences between employer contributions and proportionate share of contributions 15,132 1,552,982 City contributions subsequent to the measurement date 10,760,050 Total $ 45,587,511 $ 3,458,561
$10,760,050 reported as deferred outflows of resources related to pensions resulting from City contributions subsequent to the measurement date will be recognized as a decrease of the net pension liability in the year ended June 30, 2018. Other amounts reported as deferred inflows and deferred outflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension expense as follows:
Year ended J une 3 0 : 2018$ 4,565,162 2019 4,569,298 2020 13,859,032 2021 8,375,408 $ 31,368,900
Actuarial Assumptions
The total pension liability in the December 31, 2015 actuarial valuation was determined using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the measurement:
Inflation 3.0 percent Salary Increases 3.50 to 7.75 percent, including inflation and productivity factor Investment rate of return 7.25 percent, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation
The plan currently uses mortality tables that vary by age, gender, employee group (i.e. general, law enforcement officer) and health status (i.e. disabled and healthy). The current mortality rates are based on published tables and based on studies that
E-87 cover significant portions of the U.S. population. The healthy mortality rates also contain a provision to reflect future mortality improvements.
The actuarial assumptions used in the December 31, 2015 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2014.
Future ad hoc COLA amounts are not considered to be substantively automatic and are therefore not included in the measurement.
The projected long-term investment returns and inflation assumptions are developed through review of current and historical capital markets data, sell-side investment research, consultant whitepapers, and historical performance of investment strategies. Fixed income return projections reflect current yields across the U.S. Treasury yield curve and market expectations of forward yields projected and interpolated for multiple tenors and over multiple year horizons. Global public equity return projections are established through analysis of the equity risk premium and the fixed income return projections. Other asset categories and strategies’ return projections reflect the foregoing and historical data analysis. These projections are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class as of June 30, 2016 are summarized in the following table:
Target Long-Term Expected Asset Class Allocation Real Rate of Return Fixed Income 29.0% 1.4% Global Equity 42.0% 5.3% Real Estate 8.0% 4.3% Alternatives 8.0% 8.9% Credit 7.0% 6.0% Inflation Protection 6.0% 4.0% Total 100.0%
The information above is based on 30-year expectations developed with the consulting actuary for the 2016 asset, liability, and investment policy study for the North Carolina Retirement Systems, including LGERS. The long-term nominal rates of return underlying the real rates of return are arithmetic annualized figures. The real rates of return are calculated from nominal rates by multiplicatively subtracting a long-term inflation assumption of 3.00%. All rates of return and inflation are annualized.
Discount rate
The discount rate used to measure the total pension liability was 7.25%. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from plan members will be made at the current contribution rate and that contributions from employers will be made at statutorily required rates, actuarially determined. Based on these assumptions, the pension plan’s fiduciary net position was projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of the current plan members. Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total pension liability.
Sensitivity of the City’s proportionate share of the net pension liability to changes in the discount rate
The following presents the City’s proportionate share of the net pension liability calculated using the discount rate of 7.25 percent, as well as what the City’s proportionate share of the net pension asset or net pension liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower (6.25 percent) or one percentage point higher (8.25 percent) than the current rate: 1% Discount 1% Decrease Rate Increase (6.25%) (7.25%) (8.25%)
City's proportionate share of the net pension liability (asset) $ 129,072,018 $ 54,381,226 $ (8,006,077)
E-88 Pension plan fiduciary net position
Detailed information about the pension plan’s fiduciary net position is available in the separately issued Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the State of North Carolina.
2. Law Enforcement Officers Special Separation Allowance (LEOSSA)
Plan Description
The City is the administrator of a single-employer, defined benefit, retirement system (Separation Allowance) established by the City to provide special separation benefits to its law enforcement officers, as required by state law.
Qualified sworn City law enforcement officers are covered by the Separation Allowance. At December 31, 2015, the date of the latest actuarial valuation, the Separation Allowance’s membership consisted of:
Retirees currently receiving benefits 136 Inactive plan members entitled to but not yet receiving benefits - Active plan members 690 Total 826
The Separation Allowance provides separation benefits to all full-time City law enforcement officers who meet the following requirements: (1) Have (i) completed 30 or more years of creditable service or, (ii) attained 55 years of age and completed 5 or more years of creditable service; and
(2) Have not attained 62 years of age; and
(3) Have completed at least 5 years of continuous service as a law enforcement officer immediately preceding a service retirement
The qualified law enforcement officers are entitled to an annual retirement benefit of 0.85% of the annual equivalent of the base rate of compensation most recently applicable to the covered employee for each year of creditable service. The retirement benefits are paid semi-monthly in equal installments. Payments to retired officers cease at their death or on the last day of the month in which the officer attains 62 years of age or upon the first day of reemployment by any State department, agency, or institution.
Article 12D of G. S. Chapter 143 assigns the authority to establish and amend benefit provisions to the North Carolina General Assembly. The retirement benefits are not subject to any increases in salary or retirement allowances that may be authorized by the General Assembly.
Management of the Separation Allowance is vested in three Trustees, the City Manager, the Director of Finance and the Director of Human Resources, appointed by the City Council.
The Separation Allowance does not issue a separate stand-alone financial report and is included in the City’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as a Pension Benefit Trust Fund.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions and pension expense, information about the fiduciary net position of the Separation Allowance and additions to/deductions from the Separation Allowance’s fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by the Pension Trust Fund, that is using the full accrual basis of accounting. Employer contributions to the Separation Allowance are recognized when due and when the City has made a formal commitment to provide the contributions. Benefits are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the terms of the Separation Allowance. Investments are reported at fair value.
E-89 Contributions
The City is required by Article 12D of G.S. Chapter 143 to provide these retirement benefits and has chosen to fund the amounts necessary to cover the benefits earned on a pay as you go basis through appropriations made in the General Fund operating budget and to also advance fund amounts as available. Contributions are not required to be made by employees, and as such, there were none. The City’s obligation to contribute to this plan is established and may be amended by the North Carolina General Assembly. The actuarially determined contribution rate of $3,924,814 for FY 2017 is the estimated amount necessary to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. The City contributed $2,528,862 in addition to $6,382,635 recognized as a prior period restatement for amounts that had been accumulated as of the beginning of the fiscal year, to pay benefits. These amounts represent 6.5% and 16.5% of covered-employee payroll, respectively. Administrative costs of the Separation Allowance are financed through investment earnings.
The annual required contribution for the current year was determined as part of the December 31, 2015 actuarial valuation using the entry age normal actuarial cost method, amortized over a level dollar closed period. The actuarial assumptions include (a) 3.57% investment rate of return and (b) projected salary increase of 3.50% to 7.35%. Both (a) and (b) included an inflation component of 3.0%. The assumptions did not include post-retirement benefit increases. The actuarial value of assets was determined using the market value of investments. The remaining amortization period at December 31, 2015 was 15 years.
Pension Liabilities, Pension Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
At June 30, 2017, The City reported a total pension liability of $31,326,515. The total pension liability was measured as of December 31, 2016 based on a December 31, 2015 actuarial valuation. The total pension liability was rolled forward to December 31, 2016 utilizing standard actuarial update rollfoward procedures incorporating the actuarial assumptions. For the year ended June 30, 2017, the City recognized pension expense of $2,008,339.
At June 30, 2017, the City reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions from the following sources, based on amounts computed as of the December 31, 2016 measurement date.
Deferred Outflows Deferred Inflows of Resources of Resources
(1) Changes of assumptions and other inputs $ $ 820,236 Net difference between projected and actual earnings (2) on pension plan investments 54,343 City contributions subsequent to the measurement date 1,323,798 Total $ 1,323,798 $ 874,579
(1) Amortized over the average remaining service life of active and inactive plan members at the beginning of the fiscal year, or 5.7 years. (2) Amortized over a fixed five-year period.
$1,323,798 reported as deferred outflows of resources related to pensions resulting from City contributions subsequent to the measurement date will be recognized as a decrease of the net pension liability in the year-ended December 31, 2017. Other amounts reported as deferred inflows and deferred outflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension expense as follows: Year ended J une 3 0 : 2018$ 188,104 2019 188,104 2020 188,104 2021 188,103 2022 122,164 $ 874,579
E-90 Actuarial Assumptions
The entry age normal actuarial cost method, amortized on a level dollar closed period was used in the December 31, 2015 actuarial valuation. The total pension liability rolled forward to December 31, 2016 was determined using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the measurement:
Inflation 3.0 percent Salary Increases 3.50 to 7.35 percent, including inflation
Investment rate of return 4.00 percent, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation
Since the prior measurement date, the assumed rate of return was increased from 3.57% to 4.00% to reflect the change from the municipal bond rate to the long-term expected rate of return.
The plan currently uses mortality tables that vary by age, and health status (i.e. disabled and healthy). The current mortality rates are based on published tables and based on studies that cover significant portions of the U.S. population. The healthy mortality rates also contain a provision to reflect future mortality improvements. The actuarial assumptions used in the December 31, 2015 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2014.
The rates of mortality for the period after service retirement are according to the RP-2014 Healthy Annuitant base rates projected to the valuation date using MP-2015, projected forward generationally from the valuation date using MP-2015. Rates are adjusted by 104% for males and 100% for females.
Investment Policy and Long-Term Expected Rate of Return
The Separation Allowance’s investment policy, adopted by the City Council in April 2017, allows for investment in instruments authorized by G.S. 159-30 as well as investments available to the North Carolina State Treasurer when managing funds with the same purpose. The investment policy may be amended by a majority vote of Council members. The following was the City Council’s adopted asset allocation policy as of June 30, 2017:
Target Long-Term Expected Asset Class Allocation Real Rate of Return
Equity Index Fund 60.0% 4.46% Bond Index Fund 40.0% 0.64% Total 100.0%
For the year-ended June 30, 2017, the annual money-weighted rate of return on Separation Allowance investments, net of investment expense, was 0.91%. The money-weighted rate of return expresses investment performance, net of investment expense, adjusted for the changing amounts actually invested. Investments are valued at fair market value.
The projected long-term investment returns and inflation assumptions are developed through review of current and historical capital markets data, sell-side investment research, consultant whitepapers, and historical performance of investment strategies. Best estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return are developed for each major asset class. These projections are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class as of June 30, 2017 are summarized in the table above.
The long-term nominal rates of return underlying the real rates of return are 10-year geometric compounded annualized figures. The real rates of return are calculated from nominal rates by multiplicatively adjusting for a long-term inflation assumption of 2.19%. All rates of return and inflation are annualized.
E-91 Discount rate
The discount rate used to measure the total pension liability was 4.00%. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from employers will be made at actuarially determined rates each year. Based on these assumptions, the pension plan’s fiduciary net position was projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of the current plan members. Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments of 4% was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total pension liability.
Sensitivity of the City’s net pension liability to changes in the discount rate
The following presents the City’s net pension liability calculated using the discount rate of 4.00 percent, as well as what the City’s share of net pension liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower (3.00 percent) or one percentage point higher (5.00 percent) than the current rate:
1% Discount 1% Decrease Rate Increase (3.00%) (4.00%) (5.00%)
Net Pension Liability $ 27,381,644 $ 25,009,255 $ 22,838,536
Changes in the Net Pension Liability Total Pension Plan Net Net Pension Liability Position Liability (a) (b) (a) - (b)
Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 32,672,426 $ $ 32,672,426
Changes for the year:
Service Cost 1,073,888 1,073,888 Interest 1,120,959 1,120,959 Changes of assumptions or other inputs (994,754) (994,754) Contributions - employer 8,796,931 (8,796,931) Contributions - member - - - Net investment income 67,929 (67,929) Benefits paid (2,546,004) (2,546,004) Plan administrative expenses - (1,596) 1,596
Net changes (1,345,911) 6,317,260 (7,663,171) Balance as of December 31, 2016 $ 31,326,515 $ 6,317,260 $ 25,009,255
3. Supplemental Retirement Income Plan For Law Enforcement Officers
All law enforcement officers employed by the City participate in the State of North Carolina Supplemental Retirement Income Plan, a 401(k) defined contribution pension plan, administered by the Department of State Treasurer and a Board of Trustees. Participation begins on the first day of the quarter upon reaching sworn status. In a defined contribution plan, benefits depend solely on amounts contributed to the plan plus investment earnings. Article 5 of G. S. Chapter 135 assigns the authority to establish and amend benefit provisions to the North Carolina General Assembly. Article 12E of G. S. Chapter 143 requires that the City contribute each month an amount equal to 5% of each officer’s salary, and all amounts contributed are vested immediately. Also, the law enforcement officers may make voluntary contributions to the plan.
E-92 The City’s contributions for the year ended June 30, 2017 were calculated using a covered payroll (base salary) in the amount of $35,597,864. The City’s total payroll was $161,505,421. Total contributions were $4,636,538, which consisted of $1,779,893 from the City and $2,856,645 from the law enforcement officers. The City’s required contributions and the officer’s voluntary contributions represented 5.0% and 7.5% of the covered payroll amount, respectively. The Supplemental Retirement Income Plan for Law Enforcement Officers is included in the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the State of North Carolina. The State’s CAFR includes the pension trust fund financial statements for the Internal Revenue Code Section 401(k) plan that includes the Supplemental Retirement Income Plan for Law Enforcement Officers. That report may be obtained by writing to the Office of the State Controller, 1410 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1410, or by calling (919) 981-5454.
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E-94 The following financial statements have been compiled from the audited financial statements of the City for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2017, 2016, and 2015.
E-95 City of Greensboro, North Carolina General Fund Balance Sheet As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 51,313,771 $ 57,018,960 $ 48,101,318 Receivables: Taxes 4,524,986 4,992,001 5,763,659 Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 2,426,288 2,171,987 2,434,002 Intergovernmental 20,873,560 21,245,856 20,065,494 Real Estate Foreclosed 736,841 640,678 524,253 Internal Receivables 24,100 150,910 378,710 Due from Component Unit 827,107 968,875 800,635 Inventories 975,385 1,003,078 995,186 Miscellaneous 271,191 197,660 683,385 Restricted Assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments 1,848,417 1,423,478 1,371,339 Total Assets $ 83,821,646 $ 89,813,483 $ 81,117,981
Liabilities, Deferred Inflows of Resources and Fund Balances
Liabilities: Accounts Payable $ 2,230,387 $ 2,160,632 $ 1,747,256 Contracts/Retainage Payable 433,550 516,651 653,054 Intergovernmental Payable 3,652,724 1,663,518 3,099,391 Customer Deposits Payable 625,351 564,876 353,427 Prepaid Privilege License Fees 17,325 18,604 18,217 Prepaid Business Permit Fees 1,600 2,100 - Unearned Contributions/Donations 324,719 319,627 336,269 Liabilities Payable from Restricted Assets: Miscellaneous 1,572,710 1,423,478 1,371,339 Total Liabilities 8,858,366 6,669,486 7,578,953
Deferred Inflows of Resources: Property Taxes Receivable 4,524,986 4,992,001 5,763,659 Other Accounts Receivable 823,709 851,014 861,931 Prepaid Taxes 16,692 127,823 2,024 Total Deferred Inflows of Resources 5,365,387 5,970,838 6,627,614
Fund Balances: Non-Spendable: Inventories 975,385 1,003,078 995,186 Miscellaneous Prepaid Expenditures 271,191 197,660 683,385 Total Non-Spendable Fund Balance 1,246,576 1,200,738 1,678,571
Restricted: Stabilization by State statute 28,346,163 28,002,098 26,634,981 Total Restricted Fund Balance 28,346,163 28,002,098 26,634,981
Committed: For Police Separation Allowance - 6,365,576 - Total Committed Fund Balance - 6,365,576 -
Assigned: Appropriated for Subsequent Year's Expenditures 6,602,801 6,654,740 4,502,638 Household Hazardous Waste - - 246,925 For Capital Projects 7,644,005 10,149,567 10,030,399 Total Assigned Fund Balance 14,246,806 16,804,307 14,779,962
Unassigned 25,758,348 24,800,440 23,817,900 Total Fund Balances 69,597,893 77,173,159 66,911,414 Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $ 83,821,646 $ 89,813,483 $ 81,117,981
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-96 City of Greensboro, North Carolina General Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Taxes $ 203,120,010 $ 198,820,594 $ 193,864,510 Intergovernmental 32,033,180 32,518,231 32,545,134 Licenses and Permits 4,281,430 4,390,773 6,803,591 Fines and Forfeitures 2,019,877 1,864,116 2,211,438 Charges for Current Services 16,901,319 17,343,516 17,179,366 Miscellaneous 3,457,032 2,647,383 2,750,025 Total Revenues 261,812,848 257,584,613 255,354,064
Expenditures: Current: General government 20,224,131 20,071,990 20,353,353 Public safety 123,109,020 122,709,166 121,032,618 Transportation 9,923,799 9,371,974 9,270,093 Engineering and building maintenance 15,305,398 14,777,214 14,514,592 Field operations 34,952,060 33,754,392 33,769,369 Culture and recreation 26,571,445 25,969,977 26,197,997 Neighborhood Development 121,510 371,129 366,533 Economic opportunity 955,763 1,506,405 656,137 Intergovernmental 2,042,687 2,032,220 1,993,939 Total Expenditures 233,205,813 230,564,467 228,154,631
Excess of Revenues Over Expenditures 28,607,035 27,020,146 27,199,433
Other Financing Sources (Uses): Transfers in: Special Revenue Funds 5,346,000 6,166,642 6,016,642 Capital Project Funds 720,000 720,000 720,000 Internal Service Funds 53,000 53,000 53,000 Total Transfers in 6,119,000 6,939,642 6,789,642
Transfers out: Special Revenue Funds (441,423) (418,960) (468,043) Debt Service Fund (21,238,110) (18,272,570) (18,043,080) Capital Projects Funds (1,800,000) (2,360,347) (973,757) Enterprise Funds (4,597,393) (4,305,777) (4,122,684) Internal Service Fund (7,858,799) (4,720,014) (4,419,194) Total Transfers out (35,935,725) (30,077,668) (28,026,758)
Total Other Financing Uses (29,816,725) (23,138,026) (21,237,116)
Net Change in Fund Balances (1,209,690) 3,882,120 5,962,317
Fund Balances - July 1 77,173,159 66,911,414 60,949,097 Prior Period Adjustments (Restatement) (6,365,576) 6,379,625 - Fund Balances - July 1, (Restated) 70,807,583 73,291,039 - Fund Balances - June 30 $ 69,597,893 $ 77,173,159 $ 66,911,414
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-97 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Debt Service Fund Balance Sheet As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 16,362,145 $ 10,697,305 $ 7,818,770 Receivables: Intergovernmental 146,155 212,120 95,447 Total assets $ 16,508,300 $ 10,909,425 $ 7,914,217
Liabilities and Fund Balances
Liabilities: Accounts Payable $ 20,625 -$ -$ Intergovernmental Payable - - 35,646 Total Liabilities 20,625 - 35,646
Fund Balances: Restricted: Stabilization by State statute 150,905 214,820 99,447 Assigned: Appropriated for Subsequent Year's Expenditures - 732,014 - For Debt Service 16,336,770 9,962,591 7,779,124 Total Fund Balances 16,487,675 10,909,425 7,878,571 Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $ 16,508,300 $ 10,909,425 $ 7,914,217
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-98 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Debt Service Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Intergovernmental -$ -$ $ 106,219
Investment Income 1,489,938 1,124,463 962,400 Net Increase (Decrease) in the Fair Value of Investments (408,968) 235,743 200,936 Total Investment Income 1,080,970 1,360,206 1,163,336
Miscellaneous 130,519 187,199 338,137 Total Revenues 1,211,489 1,547,405 1,607,692
Expenditures: Current General Government 221,661 213,274 185,457 Debt service: Principal Retirement 11,612,462 11,390,844 11,363,519 Interest, Fees on Long-Term Debt 5,574,821 5,185,003 5,523,904 Total Expenditures 17,408,944 16,789,121 17,072,880
Excess of Revenues Under Expenditures (16,197,455) (15,241,716) (15,465,188)
Other Financing Sources (Uses): General Obligation Bonds Issued 62,590,000 - - Premium on Debt 10,500,223 - - Payment to Escrow Agent for Refunding of Debt (72,555,141) - - Transfers In: General Fund 21,238,110 18,272,570 18,043,080 Capital Projects Fund 2,513 - - Total Other Financing Sources 21,775,705 18,272,570 18,043,080
Net Change in Fund Balances 5,578,250 3,030,854 2,577,892
Fund Balances - July 1 10,909,425 7,878,571 5,300,679 Fund Balances - June 30 $ 16,487,675 $ 10,909,425 $ 7,878,571
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-99 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Enterprise Fund Combined Statement of Net Position As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Assets
Current Assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments $ 80,931,371 $ 80,403,773 $ 79,359,495 Receivables (Net): Accounts, Notes and Mortgages 17,100,777 17,267,264 16,566,551 Intergovernmental 838,340 785,758 785,281 Interest 226,983 193,350 158,842 Inventories 4,537,093 4,632,375 4,570,905 Miscellaneous 148,953 6,477 110,501 Total Current Assets 103,783,517 103,288,997 101,551,575
Noncurrent Assets: Restricted: Cash and Cash Equivalents/ Investments 83,240,938 78,195,671 76,454,950 Receivables (Net): Assessments 574,241 620,976 726,783 Intergovernmental 745,988 1,303,441 270,652 Interest 182,221 155,715 114,852 Net Pension Asset- LGERS - - 2,295,664 Miscellaneous - 373,103 - Long-Term Note Receivable 265,319 275,000 - Capital Assets: Non-Depreciable: Land 50,796,943 45,868,641 45,637,668 Construction in Progress 67,331,199 90,094,469 44,941,551 Intangible Assets: Easements 23,207,825 22,252,477 21,179,337 Depreciable/Amortizable: Land Improvements 49,760,286 45,739,412 45,774,745 Buildings 315,558,209 308,658,345 302,311,075 Improvements Other than Buildings 9,988,483 9,988,483 9,992,469 Furniture, Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment 76,705,365 58,175,485 55,242,813 Infrastructure 717,449,536 661,812,618 649,076,654 Less Accumulated Depreciation (527,210,278) (497,233,658) (473,161,484) Intangible Assets: Software and Licenses 5,457,218 5,308,638 5,298,383 Water Rights 89,147,139 88,250,033 87,368,010 Less Accumulated Amortization (17,316,084) (15,409,109) (13,472,829) Total Noncurrent Assets 945,884,548 904,429,740 860,051,293 Total Assets 1,049,668,065 1,007,718,737 961,602,868
Deferred Outflows of Resources Unamortized Bond Refunding Charges 3,113,089 4,051,634 4,808,215 Pension Deferrals 5,409,052 3,626 4,364 Current Year Pension Contributions 1,671,143 1,624,893 1,500,095 Total Deferred Outflows of Resources 10,193,284 5,680,153 6,312,674
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-100 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Enterprise Fund Combined Statement of Net Position As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015
Liabilities, Deferred Inflows of Resources and Fund Balances
Liabilities
Current Liabilities: Accounts Payable$ 8,339,077 $ 8,404,202 $ 5,316,843 Contracts/Retainage Payable 878,946 1,867,105 1,156,930 Intergovernmental Payable 3,422 19,405 1,192,729 Unearned Revenues 753,819 1,047,788 981,612 Revenue Bonds Payable 16,389,479 16,241,277 14,944,527 Revenue BANs Payable 41,338,376 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 715,000 680,000 655,000 Lease-Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 12,485,337 302,618 281,920 Federal Loan Obligation - - 254,404 Accrued Landfill Liability 500,000 500,000 500,000 Accrued Pollution Remediation Liability 427,534 559,747 642,632 Interest Payable 631,401 659,271 611,345 Customer Deposits Payable 4,493,004 3,923,057 3,822,227 Compensated Absences Payable 1,386,083 1,331,237 1,309,323 Total Current Liabilities 88,341,478 35,535,707 31,669,492
Noncurrent liabilities: Payable from Restricted Assets: Accounts Payable - 57,500 1,416,276 Contracts/Retainage Payable 6,982,998 7,815,991 7,216,217 Revenue Bonds Payable 202,872,735 219,263,880 205,108,193 Revenue BANs Payable 18,496,701 14,075,366 Special Obligation Bonds Payable 1,535,000 2,250,000.00 2,930,000 Lease-Purchase and Other Financing Agreements Payable 530,212 13,001,915 13,162,922 Accrued Landfill Liability 25,554,129 25,101,702 24,679,925 Accrued Pollution Remediation Liability 1,111,536 992,670 1,023,168 Compensated Absences Payable 779,026 817,909 706,837 Other Postemployment Benefits Payable 1,702,313 1,108,488 416,477 Net Pension Liability 8,445,948 1,936,931 - Total Noncurrent Liabilities 249,513,897 290,843,687 270,735,381 Total Liabilities 337,855,375 326,379,394 302,404,873
Deferred Inflows of Resources Pension Deferrals 537,150 1,087,463 5,595,093
Net Position Net Investment in Capital Assets 588,122,791 557,321,077 534,544,278 Restricted for: Capital Projects 77,760,390 72,775,415 67,332,109 Unrestricted 55,585,643 55,835,541 58,039,189 Total Net Position $ 721,468,824 $ 685,932,033 $ 659,915,576
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-101 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Enterprise Fund Combined Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Fund Net Position As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Operating Revenues: Charges for Current Services $ 158,773,809 $ 148,138,805 $ 149,649,111 Other Operating Revenues 4,041,007 3,965,591 4,102,065 Total Operating Revenues 162,814,816 152,104,396 153,751,176
Operating Expenses: Personal Services 26,166,673 25,344,755 24,485,183 Fringe Benefits 11,527,529 10,102,526 8,272,978 Maintenance and Operations 75,030,220 70,671,405 70,234,004 Depreciation/Amortization 31,984,933 29,320,111 28,481,626 Total Operating Expenses 144,709,355 135,438,797 131,473,791
Operating Income 18,105,461 16,665,599 22,277,385
Nonoperating Revenues (Expenses): Investment Income 1,545,749 1,539,001 1,163,238 Net Increase (Decrease) in the Fair Value of Investments (712,984) 424,028 307,026 832,765 1,963,029 1,470,264
Miscellaneous Nonoperating Revenue 3,573,984 3,859,817 1,493,964 Interest Expense (4,251,336) (4,102,147) (5,056,684) Refunds and Recoveries 239,475 210,989 334,899 Inventory Loss (134,702) (103,198) (65,107) Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Capital Assets (334,685) (8,413) 174,431 Amortization of Underwriters' Expense (938,545) (756,581) (600,402) Cost Sharing Reimbursement (379,833) 1,184,589 3,620,075 Miscellaneous Nonoperating Expense - (934,668) (1,694,621) Total Nonoperating Revenues (Expenses) (1,392,877) 1,313,417 (323,181)
Income Before Contributions and Transfers 16,712,584 17,979,016 21,954,204
Capital Contributions 3,968,516 4,386,946 3,309,769
Transfers: Transfers in: General Fund 4,597,393 5,363,095 4,122,684 Capital Projects Funds 10,265,798 - 2,845,547 Transfers out: Capital Projects Funds - (1,705,100) (920,720) Special Revenue Funds (7,500) (7,500) (7,500) Change in Net Position 35,536,791 26,016,457 31,303,984
Net Position - July 1 685,932,033 659,915,576 631,761,637 Prior Period Adjustments - - (3,150,045) Net Position July 1, Restated 685,932,033 659,915,576 628,611,592 Net Position - June 30 $ 721,468,824 $ 685,932,033 $ 659,915,576
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-102 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Enterprise Fund Combined Statement of Cash Flows As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015
2017 2016 2015 Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Receipts from Customers $ 158,918,163 $ 150,271,721 $ 149,358,157 Payments to Suppliers (74,740,899) (72,290,583) (72,062,432) Payments to Employees (36,415,491) (36,373,873) (33,896,934) Other Receipts 8,044,456 9,220,986 9,551,004 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 55,806,229 50,828,251 52,949,795
Cash Flows from Noncapital Financing Activities: Subsidies and Transfers In 14,863,191 5,363,095 6,968,231 Subsidies and Transfers Out (7,500) (1,712,600) (928,220) Net Cash Provided by Noncapital Financing Activities 14,855,691 3,650,495 6,040,011
Cash Flows from Capital and Related Financing Activities: Capital Debt Issued 22,855,309 64,959,910 135,010,815 Acquisition and Construction of Capital Assets (65,309,972) (66,201,740) (38,689,146) Proceeds from Sale of Capital Assets 11,073 73,670 219,547 Payment to Escrow Agent for Refunding of Debt - (30,000,000) (117,500,000) Principal Paid on Capital Debt (14,622,618) (13,661,324) (11,550,014) Interest and Fiscal Charges Paid on Capital Debt (8,809,118) (8,738,276) (9,431,363) Net Cash Used for Capital and Related Financing Activities (65,875,326) (53,567,760) (41,940,161)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Investment Income 786,271 1,874,013 1,423,120 Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities 786,271 1,874,013 1,423,120
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents 5,572,865 2,784,999 18,472,765
Balances - July 1 158,599,444 155,814,445 137,341,680 Balances - June 30 $ 164,172,309 $ 158,599,444 $ 155,814,445
Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments: Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - Current $ 80,931,371 $ 80,403,773 $ 79,359,495 Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - Restricted 83,240,938 78,195,671 76,454,950 Total Cash and Cash Equivalents/Investments - June 30 $ 164,172,309 $ 158,599,444 $ 155,814,445
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-103 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Enterprise Fund Combined Statement of Cash Flows As of June 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015 (continued) 2017 2016 2015
Reconciliation of Operating Income (Loss) to Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities: Operating Income $ 18,105,461 $ 16,665,599 $ 22,277,385 Adjustments to Reconcile Operating Income to Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities: Depreciation/Amortization 31,984,933 29,320,111 28,481,626 Pension Expense - - 145,020 Change in Assets, Deferred Outflows, Deferred Inflows and Liabilities: (Increase) Decrease in Receivables 222,903 (594,906) 527,842 (Increase) in Inventories (39,420) (164,668) (199,086) (Increase) Decrease in Intergovernmental Receivables 491,226 (1,019,621) 401,439 (Increase) Decrease in Miscellaneous Assets 230,627 (269,079) (2,248,972) Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable (135,967) (946,308) 1,646,151 Increase (Decrease) in Contracts/Retainage Payable (696,226) 690,186 11,165 Increase (Decrease) in Landfill Liability 452,427 421,777 (1,291,731) Increase in Deferred Outflows of Resources for Pensions (5,451,676) (124,060) (1,500,095) Decrease in Net Pension Asset - 2,295,664 - Decrease in Deferred Inflows of Resources - Pension (550,313) (4,507,630) - Increase in Net Pension Obligation 6,509,017 1,936,931 - Increase in Accrued OPEB Actuarial Liability 593,825 692,011 231,418 Increase in Compensated Absences Payable 15,963 132,986 22,101 Decrease in Pollution Remediation Liability (13,347) (113,383) (41,708) Decrease in Intergovernmental Payables (15,983) (1,173,324) (270,148) Increase in Customer Deposits Payable 169,326 97,822 211,052 Increase (Decrease) in Miscellaneous Payable 119,994 2,744,074 (811,974) Increase in Other Receipts 3,813,459 4,744,069 5,358,310 Total Adjustments 37,700,768 34,162,652 30,672,410 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $ 55,806,229 $ 50,828,251 $ 52,949,795
Noncash Investing, Capital and Financing Activities: Imputed Capitalized Interest $ 1,547,136.00 $ 1,274,860 $ 673,813 Donated Assets 3,968,516 4,386,946 3,309,769 Total Noncash Investing, Capital and Financing Activities $ 5,515,652 $ 5,661,806 $ 3,983,582
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
E-104 Notes to the Compiled Financial Statements
Accounting Changes and Reclassifications General Fund - In accordance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 68, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Pensions, the City reclassified assets of the General Fund to the Law Enforcement Officers’ Special Separation Allowance Pension Benefit Trust fund. The implementation of the statement required the City to record beginning net pension liability and the effects on net position of contributions made by the City during the measurement period (calendar year ending December 31, 2016). As a result, the beginning fund balance for the General Fund decreased by $6,365,576 in fiscal year ending June 30, 2017. In accordance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 73, the City reclassified assets of the Law Enforcement Officers’ Special Separation Allowance Trust fund to the General Fund. As a result, fund balance for the General Fund increased by $6,379,625 in fiscal year ending June 30, 2016. Enterprise Funds - The City implemented Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 68, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Pensions (an amendment of GASB Statement No. 27), in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. The implementation of the statement required the City to record beginning net pension liability and the effects on net position of contributions made by the City during the measurement period (fiscal year ending June 30, 2014). As a result, net position for the business-type activities decreased by $3,150,045.
E-105 THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
E-106 The following budget statements have been compiled from the budget ordinance and related amendments of the City for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018 and June 30, 2019.
E-107 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Compiled Budget - Annually Budgeted Funds For the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018
Estimated Revenues, Other Financing Sources, and Appropriated Fund Balances - By Source
Special Debt General Revenue Service Enterprise Fund Fund Fund Fund Estimated revenues: Taxes $ 213,864,000 $ 8,295,680 $ 150,000 $ 180,000 Assessments - - - 40,000 Intergovernmental 32,753,371 7,475,000 - - Licenses and permits 4,446,205 - - 373,000 Fines and foreitures 2,006,800 - - - Charges for current services 13,368,823 3,474,692 - 166,039,763 Interest earned 75 242,290 1,412,750 1,273,529 Miscellaneous 6,843,723 8,028,760 - 1,415,100 Total estimated revenues 273,282,997 27,516,422 1,562,750 169,321,392
Other financing sources:
Transfers from other funds: General Fund - 435,706 25,920,000 4,730,537 Special Revenue Fund1 5,646,000 362,655 - - Capital Projects Fund1 720,000 - - - Internal Service Fund 53,000 - - - Revenue bond proceeds/premium - - - 75,202,170 Total other financing sources 6,419,000 798,361 25,920,000 79,932,707
Appropriated fund balance 11,483,821 2,768,366 4,750 23,568,823
Total estimated revenues, other financing sources, and appropriated fund balances $291,185,818 $31,083,149 $27,487,500 $272,822,922
City of Greensboro, North Carolina Compiled Budget - Annually Budgeted Funds For the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018 (continued)
Appropriations and Other Financing Uses - By Function
Special Debt General Revenue Service Enterprise Fund Fund Fund Fund Appropriations: General government $ 23,241,141 $ 461,612 $ 265,958 $ - Public safety 126,183,560 3,049,825 - - Transportation 10,514,947 - - - Engineering 20,958,590 - - - Field operations 36,657,060 - - - Environmental services 5,500 - - - Culture and recreation 28,342,644 893,661 - - Neighborhood development 4,117,440 4,944,495 - - Economic opportunity 400,183 1,982,183 - - Water resources operations - - - 74,924,602 War Memorial Coliseum operations - - - 26,904,481 Stormwater operations - - - 8,984,154 Parking facilities operations - - - 2,994,578 Solid waste management operations - - - 17,518,555 Capital outlay 565,778 - - 2,362,059 Debt service: Principal retirement 37,820 935,000 13,902,670 15,272,257 Interest 6,977 1,692,544 8,839,422 11,464,999 Fees and other - 1,192,424 4,479,450 1,412,070 Total appropriations 251,031,640 15,151,744 27,487,500 161,837,755
Other financing uses: Payment to Escrow - - - 74,989,965 Transfers to other funds: General Fund - 5,646,000 - - Special Revenue Fund 435,706 362,655 - - State and Federal Grants Fund 1 6,738 - - 7,500 Debt Service Fund 25,920,000 - - - Capital Projects Fund 1 1,275,500 1,879,000 - - Enterprise Fund 4,811,109 8,000,000 - 35,987,702 Internal Service Fund 7,705,125 - - - Permanent Fund - 43,750 - - Total other financing uses 40,154,178 15,931,405 - 110,985,167 Total appropriations and other financing uses $291,185,818 $31,083,149 $27,487,500 $272,822,922
Note: The Special Revenue fund does not include the Community Development fund, the Home Fund, the State and Federal Grants Funds, and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Fund. These funds are budgeted on the basis of multi-year projects and are therefore excluded.
(1) Project basis budget
Compiled by City of Greensboro Financial Services Department staff. E-108 City of Greensboro, North Carolina Compiled Budget - Annually Budgeted Funds For the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2019
Estimated Revenues, Other Financing Sources, and Appropriated Fund Balances - By Source
Special Debt General Revenue Service Enterprise Fund Fund Fund Fund Estimated revenues: Taxes $ 219,851,000 $ 8,435,440 $ 150,000 $ 190,000 Assessments - - - 40,000 Intergovernmental 32,285,383 7,320,000 - - Licenses and permits 4,407,815 - - 373,000 Fines and foreitures 1,776,700 - - 4,200 Charges for current services 13,575,295 3,076,107 - 165,162,215 Interest earned 75 373,534 3,225,750 1,548,866 Miscellaneous 6,881,102 5,028,760 - 1,779,100 Total estimated revenues 278,777,370 24,233,841 3,375,750 169,097,381
Other financing sources:
Transfers from other funds: General Fund - 435,706 26,005,610 4,730,537 Special Revenue Fund1 5,973,800 - - - Capital Projects Fund1 720,000 - - - Internal Service Fund 53,000 - - - Revenue bond proceeds/premium - - - - Total other financing sources 6,746,800 435,706 26,005,610 4,730,537
Appropriated fund balance 10,477,968 1,846,773 49,045 32,340,704
Total estimated revenues, other financing sources, and appropriated fund balances $296,002,138 $26,516,320 $29,430,405 $206,168,622
City of Greensboro, North Carolina Compiled Budget - Annually Budgeted Funds For the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2019 (continued)
Appropriations and Other Financing Uses - By Function
Special Debt General Revenue Service Enterprise Fund Fund Fund Fund Appropriations: General government $ 22,562,329 $ 762,196 $ 309,072 $ - Public safety 129,235,886 3,032,036 - - Transportation 10,567,307 - - - Engineering 21,306,392 - - - Field operations 37,869,306 - - - Environmental services 5,500 - - - Culture and recreation 28,942,274 846,079 - - Neighborhood development 4,853,756 3,730,147 - - Economic opportunity 456,425 1,826,103 - - Water resources operations - - - 77,594,098 War Memorial Coliseum operations - - - 25,968,084 Stormwater operations - - - 9,211,173 Parking facilities operations - - - 2,987,923 Solid waste management operations - - - 19,695,554 Capital outlay 416,364 - - 1,751,308 Debt service: Principal retirement 39,820 970,000 13,748,935 17,147,257 Interest 4,977 1,855,144 10,382,821 12,667,147 Fees and other - 753,065 4,989,577 1,134,468 Total appropriations 256,260,336 13,774,770 29,430,405 168,157,012
Other financing uses: Transfers to other funds: General Fund - 5,973,800 - - Special Revenue Fund 435,706 - - - State and Federal Grants Fund 1 - - - 7,500 Debt Service Fund 26,005,610 - - - Capital Projects Fund 1 575,000 1,724,000 - - Enterprise Fund 4,923,068 5,000,000 - 38,004,110 Internal Service Fund 7,802,418 - - - Permanent Fund - 43,750 - - Total other financing uses 39,741,802 12,741,550 - 38,011,610 Total appropriations and other financing uses $296,002,138 $26,516,320 $29,430,405 $206,168,622
Note: The Special Revenue fund does not include the Community Development fund, the Home Fund, the State and Federal Grants Funds, and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Fund. These funds are budgeted on the basis of multi-year projects and are therefore excluded.
(1) Project basis budget Compiled by City of Greensboro Financial Services Department staff. E-109 [Proposed Form of Opinion of Bond Counsel for the 2018A Bonds]
October __, 2018
City Council of the City of Greensboro, North Carolina
We have examined, as bond counsel to the City of Greensboro, North Carolina (the “City”), existing law, certified copies of such legal proceedings and such other proofs as we have deemed necessary to deliver this opinion, relative to $10,400,000 Taxable General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2018A, dated their date of delivery (the “Bonds”), of the City.
As to questions of fact material to our opinion, we have relied upon the certified proceedings and other certifications of public officials and others furnished to us without undertaking to verify the same by independent investigation.
Based on such examination we are of the opinion, as of the date hereof and under existing law, that:
1. Such proceedings and proofs show lawful authority for the sale and issuance of the Bonds pursuant to The Local Government Finance Act, Chapter 159, as amended, of the General Statutes of North Carolina.
2. The Bonds constitute valid and binding general obligations of the City, for the payment of the principal of and interest on which all taxable real and tangible personal property within the City is subject to the levy of ad valorem taxes, without limitation as to rate or amount.
3. Interest on the Bonds is not excluded from the gross income of the owners thereof for federal income tax purposes and will be fully subject to federal income taxation.
4. Interest on the Bonds is exempt from all State of North Carolina income taxes.
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and other laws of taxation, including the laws of taxation of the State of North Carolina, of other states and of local jurisdictions, may contain other provisions that could result in tax consequences, upon which we render no opinion, as a result of the ownership or transfer of the Bonds or the inclusion in certain computations of interest that is excluded from gross income for purposes of North Carolina income taxation.
F-1 The rights of the owners of the Bonds and the enforceability thereof may be subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws affecting creditors’ rights heretofore and hereafter enacted to the extent constitutionally applicable, and their enforcement may also be subject to the exercise of judicial discretion in appropriate cases.
We express no opinion herein as to the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the Official Statement relating to the Bonds.
This opinion is given as of the date hereof, and we assume no obligation to update, revise or supplement this opinion to reflect any facts or circumstances that may hereafter come to our attention or any changes in law that may hereafter occur.
F-2
[Proposed Form of Opinion of Bond Counsel for the 2018B Bonds]
October __, 2018
City Council of the City of Greensboro, North Carolina
We have examined, as bond counsel to the City of Greensboro, North Carolina (the “City”), existing law, certified copies of such legal proceedings and such other proofs as we have deemed necessary to deliver this opinion, relative to $______General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2018B, dated their date of delivery (the “Bonds”), of the City.
As to questions of fact material to our opinion, we have relied upon the certified proceedings and other certifications of public officials and others furnished to us without undertaking to verify the same by independent investigation.
Based on such examination we are of the opinion, as of the date hereof and under existing law, that:
1. Such proceedings and proofs show lawful authority for the sale and issuance of the Bonds pursuant to The Local Government Finance Act, Chapter 159, as amended, of the General Statutes of North Carolina.
2. The Bonds constitute valid and binding general obligations of the City, for the payment of the principal of and interest on which all taxable real and tangible personal property within the City is subject to the levy of ad valorem taxes, without limitation as to rate or amount.
3. Assuming continuing compliance by the City with certain covenants to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), regarding, among other matters, use, expenditure and investment of Bond proceeds, and the timely payment of certain investment earnings to the United States Treasury, interest on the Bonds is not includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for purposes of federal income taxation. Interest on the Bonds is not a specific preference item for purposes of the alternative minimum tax imposed by the Code.
4. Interest on the Bonds is exempt from all State of North Carolina income taxes.
F-3 The Code and other laws of taxation, including the laws of taxation of the State of North Carolina, of other states and of local jurisdictions, may contain other provisions that could result in tax consequences, upon which we render no opinion, as a result of the ownership or transfer of the Bonds or the inclusion in certain computations of interest that is excluded from gross income for purposes of federal and North Carolina income taxation.
The rights of the owners of the Bonds and the enforceability thereof may be subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws affecting creditors’ rights heretofore and hereafter enacted to the extent constitutionally applicable, and their enforcement may also be subject to the exercise of judicial discretion in appropriate cases.
We express no opinion herein as to the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the Official Statement relating to the Bonds.
This opinion is given as of the date hereof, and we assume no obligation to update, revise or supplement this opinion to reflect any facts or circumstances that may hereafter come to our attention or any changes in law that may hereafter occur.
F-4 APPENDIX G
BOOK-ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM
Beneficial ownership interests in the Bonds will be available only in a book-entry system. The actual purchasers of the Bonds (the “Beneficial Owners”) will not receive physical certificates representing their interests in such Bonds purchased. So long as The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”), New York, New York, or its nominee is the registered owner of the Bonds, references in this Official Statement to the registered owners of the Bonds shall mean DTC or its nominee and shall not mean the Beneficial Owners of the Bonds. The following description of DTC, of procedures and record keeping on beneficial ownership interests in the Bonds, payment of interest and other payments with respect to the Bonds to DTC Participants or to Beneficial Owners, confirmation and transfer of beneficial ownership interests in the Bonds and of other transactions by and between DTC, DTC Participants and Beneficial Owners is based on information furnished by DTC. DTC will act as securities depository for the Bonds. The Bonds will be issued as fully- registered bonds registered in the name of Cede & Co. (DTC’s partnership nominee) or such other name as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC. One fully-registered bond certificate will be issued for each maturity of each series of the Bonds, each in the aggregate principal amount of such maturity and will be deposited with DTC. DTC, the world’s largest securities depository, is a limited-purpose trust company organized under the New York Banking Law, a “banking organization” within the meaning of the New York Banking Law, a member of the Federal Reserve System, a “clearing corporation” within the meaning of the New York Uniform Commercial Code, and a “clearing agency” registered pursuant to the provisions of Section 17A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. DTC holds and provides asset servicing for over 3.5 million issues of U.S. and non-U.S. equity issues, corporate and municipal debt issues, and money market instruments (from over 100 countries) that DTC’s participants (“Direct Participants”) deposit with DTC. DTC also facilitates the post-trade settlement among Direct Participants of sales and other securities transactions in deposited securities, through electronic computerized book-entry transfers and pledges between Direct Participants’ accounts. This eliminates the need for physical movement of the Bonds. Direct Participants include both U.S. and non-U.S. securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations, and certain other organizations. DTC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (“DTCC”). DTCC is the holding company for DTC, National Securities Clearing Corporation and Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, all of which are registered clearing agencies. DTCC is owned by the users of its regulated subsidiaries. Access to the DTC system is also available to others such as both U.S. and non-U.S. securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, and clearing corporations that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a Direct Participant, either directly or indirectly (“Indirect Participants”). DTC has a Standard & Poor’s rating of AA+. The DTC rules applicable to its Participants are on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. More information about DTC can be found at www.dtcc.com. Purchases of Bonds under the DTC system must be made by or through Direct Participants, which will receive a credit for the Bonds on DTC’s records. The ownership interest of each Beneficial Owner is in turn to be recorded on the Direct and Indirect Participants’ records. Beneficial Owners will not receive written confirmation from DTC of their purchases. Beneficial Owners are, however, expected to receive written confirmations providing details of the transaction, as well as periodic statements of their holdings, from the Direct or Indirect Participant through which the Beneficial Owner entered into the transaction. Transfers of ownership interests in the Bonds are to be accomplished by entries made on the books of Direct and Indirect Participants acting on behalf of Beneficial Owners. Beneficial Owners will not receive physical certificates representing their ownership interests in Bonds, except in the event that use of the book-entry system for the Bonds is discontinued.
G-1 To facilitate subsequent transfers, all Bonds deposited by Direct Participants with DTC are registered in the name of DTC’s partnership nominee, Cede & Co., or such other name as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC. The deposit of Bonds with DTC and their registration in the name of Cede & Co. or such other nominee do not affect any change in beneficial ownership. DTC has no knowledge of the actual identities of the Beneficial Owners of the Bonds; DTC’s records reflect only the identities of the Direct Participants to whose accounts the Bonds are credited, which may or may not be the Beneficial Owners. The Direct and Indirect Participants are responsible for keeping account of their holdings on behalf of their customers. Conveyance of notices and other communications by DTC to Direct Participants, by Direct Participants to Indirect Participants, and by Direct and Indirect Participants to Beneficial Owners will be governed by arrangements among them, subject to any statutory or regulatory requirements as may be in effect from time to time. Beneficial Owners of Bonds may wish to take certain steps to augment the transmission to them of notices of significant events with respect to the Bonds, such as redemptions, tenders, defaults, and proposed amendments to the security documents. For example, Beneficial Owners of Bonds may wish to ascertain that the nominee holding the Bonds for their benefit has agreed to obtain and transmit notices to Beneficial Owners. In the alternative, Beneficial Owners may wish to provide their names and addresses to the registrar and request that copies of notices be provided directly to them. Redemption notices shall be sent to DTC. If less than all of the Bonds within an issue are being redeemed, DTC’s practice is to determine by lot the amount of the interest of each Direct Participant in such issue to be redeemed. Neither DTC nor Cede & Co. (nor any other DTC nominee) will consent or vote with respect to Bonds unless authorized by a Direct Participant in accordance with DTC’s procedures. Under its usual procedures, DTC mails an Omnibus Proxy to the County as soon as possible after the record date. The Omnibus Proxy assigns Cede & Co.’s consenting and voting rights to those Direct Participants to whose accounts Bonds are credited on the record date (identified in a listing attached to the Omnibus Proxy). Principal and interest and redemption premiums, if any, on the Bonds will be made to Cede & Co., or such other nominee as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC. DTC’s practice is to credit Direct Participants’ accounts upon DTC’s receipt of funds and corresponding detail information from the County, on each payable date in accordance with their respective holdings shown on DTC’s records. Payments by Participants to Beneficial Owners will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is the case with securities held for the accounts of customers in bearer form or registered in “street name,” and will be the responsibility of such Participant and not of DTC (nor its nominee), the County or the Commission, subject to any statutory or regulatory requirements as may be in effect from time to time. Payment of principal, interest and redemption premiums, if any, is the County’s responsibility, disbursement of such payments to Direct Participants will be the responsibility of DTC, and disbursement of such payments to the Beneficial Owners will be the responsibility of Direct and Indirect Participants. DTC may discontinue providing its services as securities depository with respect to the Bonds at any time by giving reasonable notice to the County. Under such circumstances, in the event that a successor depository is not obtained, Bonds are required to be printed and delivered. The Commission or the County may decide to discontinue use of the system of book-entry- only transfers through DTC (or a successor securities depository). In that event, Bond certificates will be printed and delivered to DTC. The information in this Appendix concerning DTC and DTC’s book-entry system has been obtained from DTC, and the County takes no responsibility for the accuracy thereof. The County cannot and does not give any assurances that DTC, Direct Participants or Indirect Participants will distribute to the Beneficial Owners of the Bonds (a) payments of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Bonds, (b) confirmations of their ownership interests in the Bonds or (c) redemption or other notices sent to DTC or Cede & Co., its partnership nominee, as the registered owner of the bonds, or that they will do so on a timely basis, or that DTC, Direct
G-2 Participants or Indirect Participants will serve and act in the manner described in this Official Statement. THE COUNTY HAS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR OBLIGATIONS TO DTC, THE DIRECT PARTICIPANTS, THE INDIRECT PARTICIPANTS OR THE BENEFICIAL OWNERS WITH RESPECT TO (1) THE ACCURACY OR ANY RECORDS MAINTAINED BY DTC OR ANY DIRECT PARTICIPANT OR INDIRECT PARTICIPANT; (2) THE PAYMENT BY DTC OR ANY DIRECT PARTICIPANT OR INDIRECT PARTICIPANT OR ANY AMOUNT DUE TO ANY BENEFICIAL OWNER IN RESPECT OF THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF, PREMIUM, IF ANY OR INTEREST ON THE BONDS; (3) THE DELIVERY BY DTC OR ANY DIRECT PARTICIPANT OR INDIRECT PARTICIPANT OF ANY NOTICE TO ANY BENEFICIAL OWNER THAT IS REQUIRED OR PERMITTED TO BE GIVEN TO OWNERS OF THE BONDS UNDER THE TERMS OF THE RESOLUTIONS AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF THE BONDS; AND (4) ANY CONSENT GIVEN OR OTHER ACTION TAKEN BY DTC AS OWNER.
G-3