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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 7, 2023 recommended to the Board that the funding be phased in over a three (3) year period. By phasing in the millage it would lessen the burden on the general fund and the County taxpayers. Budget Director Daniels displayed a table that showed the 3 -year phase-in at an increase of $1,261,634 or 51.6% and stated the phase-in could be paused in the event of an economic downturn. She explained the increase was a twofold result due to the tax roll that increased 13.5% last year and the increase of the millage at 33.6 % Chairman Earman was astonished by the 51%, Budget Director Daniels explained it was based on the prior year's tax roll which had seen the largest tax roll increase at 13.5%. She presented to the Board funding options of two-year, four-year, and five-year phases to the Board. A discussion ensued between the Board and staff regarding the Boards concerns of where the money was going, how the money was being spent, and whether it was being spent correctly. Interim County Administrator Mike Zito stated that CSAC was committed to accountability in holding the grant recipients to specific and measurable outcomes. Mr. Zito stated they had hired a very qualified Managing Director who would begin to implement and recommend policies that would serve those purposes, and not only be a steward of the taxpayer dollars, but also make sure the outcomes are met and the programs are performing well. Acting General Services Director Beth Powell introduced Ms. Roberta Katz as the new Human Services Managing Director. Ms. Katz stated she was ready to advocate for quality programs in Indian River County. A lengthy discussion ensued between the Board, as the Board expressed their concerns and reasons for either supporting or opposing the increase. Chairman Earman and Vice Chairman Adams outlined the need for CSAC funding and agreed on phasing -in funding over a four (4) year period. The goal was to give CSAC the resources to be able to invest in the community. Chairman Earman stated it was time to do what needed to be done to make the CSAC Board more efficient and more accountable. Commissioner Moss, Commissioner Loar, and Commissioner Flescher were in favor of pausing the increase and leaving it at the current funding of 1 /8th of a mill. Commissioner Moss agreed that the Board did make the commitment and planned to honor that commitment, but, thought it was wise to pause the funding at this time. Indian River County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Jeffery Smith Indian River County Florida Page 17