7/6/1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Adams believed you cannot make -a "silk purse" out of a "sow's ear". A great deal of money has been spent on the current administration building in the past few years attempting to convert an old hospital building into an efficient office building. She believed approximately 3.5 million has been spent, in addition to the loss of personnel time and claims on the workers' compensation coverage. She realized that the topic has been put off because of its controversial nature, but some decisions must be made, no matter how difficult. Commissioner Grin felt that the current building should be renovated and expanded. She did not believe it is that difficult to locate and she stated that over 6 million is available for needed renovations. She reminded the other Commissioners that there are no guaranties with a new building. We do need more space but there are too many other critical needs in the County. She favored putting a new administration building at the bottom of the list. Commissioner Stanbridge noted that the space study did not include impact fees which would increase the cost. She felt renovation of the old Vero Mall would not be practical because of the legal entanglements. She also believed that trying to make huge buildings creates the "sick building" syndrome. She much preferred a campus of smaller buildings and felt that sort of plan could be accomplished in phases. Commissioner Tippin agreed with the need for more space but did not approve the space needs study as he felt the old Vero Mall legal situation could be salvaged. He could not support over 16 million for a new administration building. Commissimer Adams again stated that she did not want to remove the Vero Mall, which is a prime commercial site, from the tax rolls. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard regarding the Administration Building. Ital Veron, 280 Peppertree, mentioned the following concerns: (1) the square footage and increased staff requirements are excessive; (2) this "electric" age should make staff reductions possible; (3) the increase in administrative staff and emergency medical services is excessive and he suggested building quarters for the Emergency Services Department and using their vacated space for other departments; (4) the space proposed for the executive offices is larger than most living rooms, allowing 250 square feet for each commissioner, with separate toilet facilities; (5) the new furniture and equipment should be eliminated; and JULY 69 1999 -43- BOOK DO PAGE •