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There is a perennial need for space and venue for the expression of the arts and <br /> humanities. Performance, rehearsal space, gallery, and studio space is difficult to secure in <br /> Orange County, as are office, meeting, and teaching facilities. Locating multiple entities, with <br /> a shared focus on art, culture, history, and heritage, in one physical location; would encourage <br /> a dynamic exchange of inspiration, ideas, and work, as well as an opportunity share resources. <br /> Appreciation of cultural assets has a significant economic impact on Orange <br /> County. According to the Orange County Visitor's Bureau, spending by domestic U. S. <br /> travelers totaled $152 million in Orange County during 2008. That equals a 3.2 percent <br /> increase over 2007. More than 1,700 jobs in Orange County were directly attributable to travel <br /> and tourism last year, an increase from 2007. Travel generated a 29.9 million dollar payroll in <br /> the county. Arts and historical attractions bring these visitors and help to express what is <br /> unique to our area. A vibrant cultural center would serve as yet another magnet for visitors. <br /> The work of our Cultural Center Committee toward the creation of this public space <br /> continues in earnest. Our countywide coalition supports using the Whitted Building for this <br /> much needed Cultural Center. The Whitted building, located in the historic district, was <br /> formerly the site of Hillsborough High School. It has for years already been a "cultural center" <br /> by most people's definition. Throughout its history as a high school, and later as the public <br /> library and many other public uses, the Whitted Building has been a place of gathering and <br /> uniting cultural and creative inspiration. <br /> Tonight we seek your consensus that the cultural needs of the citizens of our County, <br /> when combined with the "people's history" of this building as a valuable and public space, <br /> warrants special attention with regard to the assignment of its future use. <br /> We respectfully request that the Board of Commissioners appoint a task force to <br /> objectively investigate the potential for the Whitted Building —for its highest and best use, for <br /> the benefit of all citizens of Orange County. Thank you very much." <br /> Ms. Jordy also presented a document detailing the benefits of a Cultural Center in <br /> Orange County, which is incorporated by reference. <br /> b. Matters on the Printed Agenda <br /> (These matters were considered when the Board addressed that item on the agenda <br /> below.) <br /> 3. Proclamations/ Resolutions/ Special Presentations-NONE <br /> 4. Consent Agenda <br /> A motion was made by Commissioner Yuhasz, seconded by Commissioner Hemminger <br /> to approve those items on the consent agenda as stated below: <br /> a. Minutes <br /> The Board approved the minutes from September 15 and 22, 2009 as submitted by the Clerk <br /> to the Board. <br /> b. Appointments — None <br /> c. Motor Vehicle Property Tax Release/Refunds <br /> The Board adopted a refund resolution, which is incorporated by reference, related to 73 <br /> requests for motor vehicle property tax releases or refunds in accordance with NCGS. <br /> d. Grant Application to North Carolina Association of County Commissioners for <br /> Wellness Program <br /> The Board authorized submission of the County's wellness grant application to the North <br /> Carolina Association of County Commissioners Risk Management Pool for Employee Wellness <br />