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Page 3 matters such as statewide legislative changes. APB favored the "two tier" idea and instructed staff to draft a report for review at the September meeting. b. New Consensus for Farmland Stancil reviewed the steps in the process listed in the agenda packet. The next step is to develop a program plan in next two months to discuss how to build trust. The APB should develop a memo to explain more about what and how we are going to do some of the steps on the proposed process outline. Some specific concerns include how to build trust among stakeholders, how to get people involved, and how to proceed favorably. Stancil asked the APB for ideas to inform the work groups to discuss issues to presented at the November initiation meeting listed in step #5. The Agricultural center was noted as an important incentive and that discussion needs to begin regarding its location and use. The mission of the work groups is to discuss specific categories regarding farmland preservation issues and to develop goals for establishing a strong program in Orange County. APB members commented that people have heard so much about an agricultural center, but nothing has ever materialized making it difficult to sell the agricultural center again. Staff suggested that the APB try to convey in the stakeholder materials, that this is the first time an Orange County committee has been asked to develop a plan for an agricultural center. Tate asked about available funds. Staff noted that some funds are in the CIP budget. Morrow suggested doing a presentation to promote the agriculture center that shows other centers around the country and invite input from local residents. A presentation may convey a real tangible center rather than just a future idea and might spark stakeholders' involvement in the work group meetings. One member of the APB suggested creating a future agricultural center flyer to give to stakeholder groups to help promote interest. Another member suggested incorporating part of the old southern states into the agricultural center for use as the farmers' market. Stancil to draft suggested ideas about what APB might do to make #7 work, getting folks to participate in the work groups and bring to next meeting for review. Next check -in with BOCC due in October. c. Update on Economic Development /local markets Stancil reported talking with Economic Development Commission (EDC) Director Dianne Reid, and Fletcher Barber and described their progress. Negotiations with the company that provides food service to UNC in regards to buying local produce were reported as on- going. It difficult for farmers to give a commitment to produce a certain amount of produce at a certain time. Staff is having similar problem getting participation from local producers so that the EDC can produce a local produced goods guide for buyers. Stancil discussed the idea of having a joint meeting with EDC to address a number of projects that involve both commissions, including the agricultural guide, a report on possible strategies to address economic viability of farms, and ways to expand local markets. Stancil noted that a draft report could be prepared by the time a joint meeting occurs. The APB agreed. Moon noted that the Planning Department was also considering a joint meeting with the APB, to discuss upcoming items such as the Upper Eno Protective Watershed area, and possible regulation changes. Stancil asked the APB to consider October 9, 10, as possible joint meetings with EDC or Planning Board. DRAFT MINUTES