7/3/1990 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Dear Mrs. Eggert: The alarming increase in child abuse and neglect cases and the increase in violent crimes committed by teenagers has created a major crisis. Indian River County with its high drop-out rate (49th out of 67 counties) and being in a HRS district dominated by Palm Beach County, means that the special needs of our children can best be served by a children's services council or a similar concept. The decreases in federal and state funding for children and pregnant women requires.the counties to meet the special needs of our children. I urge you to support a referendum to let the voters decide this vital issue. You ly a1'es"E. mith CES/pgk CC: Members of County Commission INDIAN RIVER, MARTIN. OKEECHOBEE A ST. LUCIE COUNTIES Attorney Moss could not say that these services will be the solution, but felt they certainly will do some good. It can't be done by private industry nor by volunteers alone. It requires an organized effort of some form and the legislature has adopted this form. However, it might be modified by the Governor with regard to some of the language that says that existing councils can go under the old provisions. It also has a provision for the establishment of a dependent taxing district. He urged the Board to put the question on the ballot and let the people decide. If the voters throw it out, so be it, but he felt that our democracy demands that they be given a chance to let the people have their say. He thanked the Board for their attention and consideration. Chairman Eggert asked if they still have this targeted for September's ballot, and Attorney Moss advised that they do, but it is difficult not knowing whether the Governor will sign the bill on his desk since it is part of a large education bill and this part could be carved out. 800F 8f, 17 U .i j