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Dr. Faherty planned to present his report to the City Council but wanted this to move <br />forward as to "how" the rates could be reduced. <br />Budget Director Jason Brown clarified that the millage rate on the annexation of <br />Barrier Island properties would be raised by one millage. <br />The Chairman opened the public hearing. <br />John Sullivan, 1500 S. Highway AIA, expressed that this issue was a "gross <br />inequitable situation" where everyone should pay the same rates for the same services. <br />John Lee, Customer Service Manager for the City Vero Beach, agreed that Dr. <br />Faherty's figures were accurate but refuted some of his remarks pertaining to regulations. He <br />suggested Dr. Faherty make his presentation to the Utilities Commission and the City Council, <br />then move forward in a positive direction. <br />Commissioner Wheeler thought an independent Utilities Commission would be a <br />positive step in offering representation. He acknowledged that he would feel better about taking a <br />position on this after a presentation has been made to the Utilities Advisory Committee, and the <br />City of Vero Beach City Council, to afford them the opportunity to address the problem before the <br />Board steps -in with a solution. The other Commissioners agreed. <br />There was further discussion regarding representation issues, annexing, the possibly <br />of waiving franchise fees for County residents, and the importance of working together. <br />The Chairman called a break at 11:37 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 11:46 <br />a.m., with all members present. <br />January 8, 2008 30 <br />