Laserfiche WebLink
Commissioner Adams felt this is another one of government's <br />teaser grants. She was concerned that the County will have to pick <br />up the full cost after 3 years. She believed it is the Federal <br />government's way to get more police officers on the street and <br />provide a more politically palatable way for the community to fund <br />the expenses. She felt it is a real Catch 22 and had a hard time <br />supporting such a grant program. <br />Sheriff Gary Wheeler stressed that the need for more officers <br />is a result of the rapid growth we have experienced in Indian River <br />County. <br />Commissioner Adams asked how much economical development <br />growth went on the ad valorem tax roll, and Administrator Chandler <br />advised that this year our total tax roll increase is about 3.9% <br />and about 1.7% of that is actual construction. We are anticipating <br />more next fiscal year with both the DeBartolo mall and the Indian <br />River Plaza being completed prior to the end of December and <br />therefore being on the roll next year. However, we don't have any <br />real benefit this year. <br />Commissioner Macht felt that while we may not like the manner <br />in which this grant is offered, it is giving us an opportunity to <br />ease into this and defray the impact on the taxpayers. <br />MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by <br />Commissioner Macht to approve the Sheriff's request <br />for approval of the submission of the grant <br />application as set out in his recommendation. <br />Under discussion, Commissioner Bird felt that what it really <br />boils down to is that the total package is $35,000 a year per <br />officer. If the Board feels that 9 additional officers are <br />justified, then we should approve the submission of the grant <br />application. If not, then it should not be approved. <br />Sheriff Wheeler emphasized that 9 additional officers will not <br />be sufficient at this time. We actually need to add more than 9 <br />officers. <br />THE CHAIRMAN CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. <br />The Motion passed unanimously. <br />APPLICATION IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD <br />September 10, 1996 19 "Na 99 E 39 <br />