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SPECIAL MEETING March 31, 1994 The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met in Special Session at the County Commission Chambers, 1840 25th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, March 31, 1994, at 9:00 a.m. Present were John W. Tippin, Chairman; Fran B. Adams, Vice Chairman; Carolyn K. Eggert; Kenneth R. Macht; and Richard N. Bird. Also present were James E. Chandler, County Administrator; Terrence O'Brien, Assistant County Attorney; and Barbara Bonnah, Deputy Clerk. The Chairman called the meeting to order. DEBBIE HOUSE TERMINATION APPEAL Chairman Tippin called on Assistant County Attorney Terry O'Brien to explain the procedures in a termination appeal, and Attorney O'Brien advised that the personnel rules provide that this hearing may be structured at the pleasure of the Board of County Commissioners provided that due process is given. He suggested that we conduct a structured meeting, similar to a court proceeding with opening statements by attorneys for both sides, and with the burden of proof by a preponderance of evidence on the defendant. The preponderance of evidence is one of the lower standards, wherein the scales would have to tip at least 51 percent one way or the other. All witnesses would be sworn and subject to cross examination. The Board indicated their agreement to proceeding in the manner suggested by Attorney O'Brien. Attorney O'Brien asked everyone who would be testifying to stand and be sworn. (This included three E911 dispatchers who were excused later on without testifying.) Deputy County Attorney Will Collins updated the Board on the status of the termination appeal, noting the following four incidents that resulted in termination: #1 - June 6, 1993 -- Injured pigeon #2 - June 30, 1993 -- Hamsters #3 - July 1, 1993 -- Unable to contact.while on-call duty #5 - Sept. 22, 1993 -- Injured dog MAR .11 1994 PAGE 01