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County to leave regional council

By Karen Cimino Wilson | Independent Tribune

Published: December 22, 2009

Updated: 12/23/2009 06:00 am

Cabarrus County commissioners voted unanimously Monday to end the county's $39,295 membership with Centralina Council of Governments.

Commissioners said the organization charges more for membership than it provides in useful services to the county. They also said they believe the organization does not give all members' voices equal weight.

Centralina Council of Governments brings nine Charlotte area counties and several municipalities together to discuss and vote on regional issues that require cooperation between various government bodies.

The counties that belong to the organization are Cabarrus, Rowan, Mecklenburg, Anson, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Stanly and Union. Air quality is one example of an issue the group would discuss. Cabarrus' membership expires in June, but quitting requires six months notice. The county will continue to participate for the next six months.

"I'm not satisfied they're keeping everybody's voice at the front of the table," said commissioner chairman Jay White.

White said he's also concerned that a committee designed to address problems with the organization's structure and efficiency has not started meeting despite complaints about the organization that were originally made six months ago by Cabarrus County officials.

Many of the services Centralina provides to the county, which cost about $24,000, could be purchases separately, saving the county the extra $15,295 it must pay Centralina to be a member.

Commissioner Coy Privette said he wanted to withdraw because "why pay for something that's not beneficial to the county."

Commissioner Liz Poole, who represents Cabarrus County at Centralina meetings, said she's still hopeful the organization will make improvements.

"I'm very hopeful that in January or February, this blue ribbon committee will actually exist," she said.
"It's important for us to be on a committee that acts regionally."

Poole asked that commissioners keep an open mind about reconsidering its membership if the organization makes positive changes.

Commissioner Grace Mynatt said her only concern is losing a seat at the table when the blue ribbon committee is formed to improve Centralina.

Contact reporter Karen Cimino Wilson: 704-789-9141.