07/18/2007 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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(Clerk's Note: Commissioner Davis rejoined the meeting at 10:56 a.m.) Administrator Baird announced that the Health Insurance increase is $53,040.00; and Property Insurance increase is $87,624.00. The proposed millage for next year is 1.7201, and current year millage is 1.7639, so there is a reduction. He pointed out that our fund balance is dropping considerably in this Fund, and it is due not to mismanagement, but to having to rebuild all the fire stations. He said although it is a tremendous strain, they are not recurring costs but one- time costs. He explained to Commissioner Davis how much of that cost would be reimbursed in FEMA dollars. Frank Coffey noticed, in Fire Rescue, a salary increase of 6.62%, a benefit increase of 1.93%, and then an operating cost increase of 9.56%. He asked if the increase was due to combining the services or additional employees. Director Brown and Administrator Baird explained the increases. Joe Remini, Vice President of Vero Beach Firefighters, addressed the issues of fire safety and supervision in their ranks, as well as education and relocation. He explained that currently the District has one mobile Battalion Chief on duty, who is tasked with manning and supervising over 11 stations with over 65 personnel per day, Countywide. He was also concerned about call coverage in the North and South County. On behalf of the Firefighters, he recommended that another Supervisor/Battalion Chief be added to assist in accounting responsibilities. He compared staffing at various stations in the County, and expressed a desire to see the trailer that is still operating in Gifford removed and placed at Station 3 to cover engine and ambulance units. He also wanted to see more help in education from the District. Chairman Wheeler asked what the increase in personnel would be to bring the manpower up from four (4) to five (5) at each station mentioned. He also inquired how many people currently man the station in Gifford. July 18, 2007 9