02/25/2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 25, 2020 Chairman Adams indicated that staff had made recommendations on the proposed key issues and sought direction from the Board. She suggested discussing each key issue individually. The Chairman mentioned that staff had proposed a 12 -year term limit instead of the 15 -year sunset date for the children's services millage; the Board was in agreement. She then referred to the proposed membership of the Children's Services Advisory Committee (CSAC). Staff recommended modifying the composition of the 13 -member committee to include Board -appointed individuals who had some expertise in the arena of children's services such as a physician, mental health professional, or child advocate. Also, staff recommended including representatives from the Indian River School and Hospital Districts. Commissioner O'Bryan felt it was important that the majority of the CSAC was appointed by the Board. Additionally, he recommended adding financial oversight with two additional members: 1) a representative from the Taxpayers' Association of Indian River County; and 2) a member of an accounting firm to oversee the committee's finances. Chairman Adams turned the Board's attention to the proposed ordinance that set forth the different uses of funds for programs and services. She stated that there was no clear list of the types of programs and services that could be funded with children's services money. A discussion followed on the proposed use of funds, with the Board recommending the following modifications: 1) adding physical activity programs, 2) funds were not to be expended on programs that fall within the jurisdiction of other funding entities, such as the Indian River County School District and Hospital District, 3) removing the duty to lease real estate, but maintaining the ability to lease or purchase equipment and other items as needed, 4) an 8% cap on the use of millage for administrative expenses, and 5) clarification on the language for the roles of the Executive Director and staff. Commissioner O'Bryan referred to the proposed Option One of the draft referendum contained in the PowerPoint Presentation as he proposed a 3 -step phase in of the millage rate over 12 years: .2 mills for the first three years, .25 mills for the second three years, .33 mills for the remaining six years, and re-evaluate at the 12 year re -authorization with all commissioners in agreement. Chairman Adams thanked everyone for their time and diligence supporting children services. Indian River County Florida Page 4