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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/13/2004 INDEX TO MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF JANUARY 13, 2004 1.CALL TO ORDER ........................................................................................ 1 2.INVOCATION ............................................................................................... 1 3.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ...................................................................... 1 4.ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA/EMERGENCY ITEMS............................................................................................................. 1 5.PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS ........................................ 2 A.PHRF.THR ROCLAMATION ONORING EBECCA HORNE ON ER ETIREMENT EJ15,2004 ...................................................................................2 FFECTIVE ANUARY B.PDJ15-18,2004FFL RESENTATION ESIGNATING ANUARY AS ELLSMERE ROG EG D ............................................................................................................................2 AYS C.PMZWCR RESENTATION BY ARIA UCARO OF ORLD TRADE ENTER EGARDING THE 2004WHOCWPB ESTERN EMISPHERE UTLOOK ONFERENCE IN EST ALM EACH F4,2004 .................................................................................................3 ON EBRUARY D.11:00..–PSCCD AM RESENTATION BY ECRETARY OLLEEN ASTILLE EPARTMENT CA,F OF OMMUNITY FFAIRS OF A CEREMONIAL CHECK FROM THE LORIDA CTLTI ........................................................3 OMMUNITIES RUST FOR OST REE SLANDS January 13, 2004 1 6.A.APPROVAL OF MINUTES – NOVEMBER 4, 2003 ............................... 5 6.B.APPROVAL OF MINUTES – NOVEMBER 18, 2003 ............................. 5 6.C.APPROVAL OF MINUTES SPECIAL MEETING – NOVEMBER 18, 2003 ............................................................................................................ 5 6.D.APPROVAL OF MINUTES – DECEMBER 2, 2003 ................................ 6 7.CONSENT AGENDA.................................................................................... 6 7.A.AW .........................................................................................6 PPROVAL OF ARRANTS 7.BRAGFAD ESIGNATION OF NNIE RACE OSTER AND PPOINTMENT OF EIRDRE SC’SAC(D2) AFIKHANI TO THE HILDRENS ERVICES DVISORY OMMITTEE ISTRICT .....................................................................................................................................6 7.C.BBDC–RFP LACK EAR EVELOPMENT ORPORATION EQUEST FOR INAL LAT ASKBBR– PPROVAL FOR A UBDIVISION TO BE NOWN AS LACK EAR ESERVE CCRI ...............................7 ONTRACT FOR ONSTRUCTION OF EQUIRED MPROVEMENTS 7.DB#6033SA–WWRP ID AND AMPLE GREEMENT ET ELL EHABILITATION ROJECT (UD)–J&HW,I. ...............................................7 TILITIES EPARTMENT ATERSTOP NC 7.E.B#6039SA–KEW ID AND AMPLE GREEMENT INGSLAKE STATES ATER A–TCC,I.–U SSESSMENT REASURE OAST ONTRACTING NC TILITIES D ..............................................................................................................8 EPARTMENT 7.F.ALDCA PPRECIATION UNCHEON FOR EPARTMENT OF OMMUNITY FFAIRS AND CO ....................................................................................................9 OUNTY FFICIALS 9.A.1.PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCE NO. 2004-001 AMENDING LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDRS) SECTION 913.09 TO REQUIRE LANDSCAPE BUFFERING ALONG COLLECTOR AND ARTERIAL ROADS FOR NEW CONVENTIONAL SUBDIVISION PROJECTS (LEGISLATIVE) ....... 9 January 13, 2004 2 9.B.1.PUBLIC DISCUSSION ITEM - BRIAN T. HEADY – IMPACT FEES AND CONSEQUENCES OF RECENT DECISIONS ON GROWTH OF RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS ........................... 13 11.E.CHILDREN’S SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE’S REQUEST CONCERNING A COMMUNITY-WIDE NEEDS ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................. 14 11.I.1.NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL PARK, PHASE II, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT – EDLUND, DRITENBAS AND BINKLEY ARCHITECTS, P.A. AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. (MULTI-PURPOSE BALL FIELDS, PLAYGROUND, COMPLETE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, COMPLETE MITIGATIONS, MAINTENANCE BUILDING, CONCESSION STAND/PRESS BOX WITH RESTROOMS, AND SUPPORTING FACILITIES) ................................................................... 18 11.I.2.FAIRGROUNDS – ROAD PAVING TO SOCCER COMPLEX AND AGRICULTURAL EXHIBIT BUILDING – FUNDING ALLOCATION ............................................................................................ 19 11.J.THE INLET AT SEBASTIAN – OFF-SITE UTILITIES CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT – CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 AND REQUEST FOR FINAL PAYMENT .............................................. 19 12.COUNTY ATTORNEY – WELLER POOL CONSTRUCTORS V. INDIAN RIVER COUNTY (NORTH COUNTY POOL) ....................... 20 January 13, 2004 3 13.E.COMMISSIONER KENNETH R. MACHT – COMMENT ON TREES .......................................................................................................... 20 14.A.EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT ................................................... 21 14.B.SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT .................................................. 22 14.C.ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD ............................................. 22 January 13, 2004 4 January 13, 2004 REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met in th Regular Session at the County Commission Chambers, 1840 25 Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Tuesday, January 13, 2004, at 9:00 a.m. Present were Caroline D. Ginn, Chairman; Arthur R. Neuberger, Vice Chairman; and Commissioners Fran B. Adams, Thomas S. Lowther, and Kenneth R. Macht. Also present were Joseph Baird, Acting County Administrator; William G. Collins II, County Attorney; Kimberly Massung, Executive Aide to the Board; and Patricia Ridgely, Deputy Clerk. 1. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ginn called the meeting to order. 2. INVOCATION Rev. Richard Clark, Our Savior Lutheran Church, delivered the Invocation. 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Vice Chairman Neuberger led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA/EMERGENCY ITEMS January 13, 2004 1 Chairman Ginn advised she had no additions to today’s Agenda. Commissioner Macht asked for the addition of 13.E., A Comment on Trees. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously made the above addition to the Agenda. 5. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS A.PHRF.TH ROCLAMATION ONORING EBECCA HORNE ON ER REJ15,2004 ETIREMENT FFECTIVE ANUARY Chairman Ginn read the proclamation and retirement award. Rebecca Thorne , Administrative Assistant to the Public Works Director, recalled the first Commission meeting (a budget session) she ever attended and how she had been told, “Now if there’s anything you want, now is the time to tell them, and they’ll give it to you.” She was scared to death because of her respect for the Commission. She stated she has enjoyed working for the County, but it was now time to retire. She accepted both awards to a standing ovation. Public Works Director James Davis recounted the years they had worked together and commented that he would certainly miss her work, talents, and sense of humor. B.PDJ15-18,2004F RESENTATION ESIGNATING ANUARY AS ELLSMERE FLD ROG EG AYS Commissioner Adams read the proclamation and presented the proclamation to Festus the Frog. January 13, 2004 2 C.PMZWC RESENTATION BY ARIA UCARO OF ORLD TRADE ENTER R2004WHO EGARDING THE ESTERN EMISPHERE UTLOOK CWPBF4,2004 ONFERENCE IN EST ALM EACH ON EBRUARY Ms. Zucaro was not present when this item was called. D.11:00..–PSCC AM RESENTATION BY ECRETARY OLLEEN ASTILLE DCA, EPARTMENT OF OMMUNITY FFAIRS OF A CEREMONIAL CHECK FCTLTI FROM THE LORIDA OMMUNITIES RUST FOR OST REE SLANDS Chairman Ginn announced that this item would be heard at 11:00 a.m. (CLERK’S NOTE: THIS MATTER WAS HEARD WHEN THE COMMISSION WAS RECONVENED AT 11 A.M. SEE ADDITIONAL NOTES NEAR THE END OF THESE MINUTES.) Chairman Ginn reconvened the meeting and welcomed the many elected officials who came together for this momentous occasion. Present were State Senator Ken Pruitt, Department of Community Affairs Secretary Colleen Castille, Division Director of DCA’s Housing and Community Development Janice Browning, Tax Collector Charles W. Sembler, Town of Indian River Shores Mayor Tom Cadden and Town Manager Robert Bradshaw, City of Vero Beach Mayor Sandra Bowden, and Councilmen Craig Fletcher and Tom White, Environmental & Code Enforcement Chief Roland DeBlois, and Public Works Director James Davis. Chairman Ginn advised that our out-of-town visitors had toured the islands this morning with staff and it was time now for the ceremonial part concerning these islands, which are now and forever in conservation. The preservation of the Lost Tree Islands is a gift to the people of Indian River County for all time. January 13, 2004 3 Colleen Castille was pleased to be a small part of this event. She commented on the passion of this community and its elected officials who cared about the conservation of these islands. She presented the large DCA ceremonial check for $5.3 million for the acquisition of the islands and the settlement of a 10 year lawsuit. Senator Ken Pruitt credited Ms. Castille with navigating through the details in this initiative to bring the islands to preservation. He lauded the efforts of all those involved at the state and local level for their dedication to this grass roots effort. Janice Browning applauded the citizens, the municipalities, and county officials involved. She found it truly remarkable that three local governments and the state had been able to come together to bring about this land acquisition. Mayor Sandra Bowden recalled the many trips she and Chairman Ginn had made and was delighted for all the local citizens. Mayor Tom Cadden commented it had been a long and interesting road. He thanked Senator Pruitt and Tax Collector Sembler and the others for their efforts. Tax Collector Charles W. Sembler thanked everyone who was involved as well as the taxpayers. Vice Chairman Neuberger was pleased that he had the opportunity to vote on this as a member of the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee, as a City Councilman, and a County Commissioner. Commissioner Macht recalled when he was Mayor of Vero Beach and was brought the blueprints for the development of the Lost Tree Islands at 3 units per acre. He thought of it as a long and personal struggle. Commissioner Adams credited the tremendous support from Tax Collector Sembler. She declared that amazing things happen because people care. Commissioner Lowther was pleased to be part of the final vote. The ceremonial check was presented. The meeting was adjourned at 11:21 a.m. and everyone got together for photographs. January 13, 2004 4 6.A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – NOVEMBER 4, 2003 The Chairman asked if there were any corrections or additions to the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 4, 2003. There were none. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously approved the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 4, 2003, as written and distributed. 6.B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – NOVEMBER 18, 2003 The Chairman asked if there were any corrections or additions to the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 18, 2003. There were none. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously approved the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 18, 2003, as written and distributed. 6.C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES SPECIAL MEETING – NOVEMBER 18, 2003 The Chairman asked if there were any corrections or additions to the Minutes of the Special Meeting of November 18, 2003. There were none. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously approved January 13, 2004 5 the Minutes of the Special Meeting of November 18, 2003, as written and distributed. 6.D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – DECEMBER 2, 2003 The Chairman asked if there were any corrections or additions to the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 2, 2003. There were none. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously approved the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 2, 2003, as written and distributed. 7. CONSENT AGENDA 7.A. AW PPROVAL OF ARRANTS ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously approved the list of warrants issued by the Clerk to the Board for the period December 19-30, 2003, as requested. 7.B RAGFA ESIGNATION OF NNIE RACE OSTER AND PPOINTMENT OF DSC’SA EIRDRE AFIKHANI TO THE HILDRENS ERVICES DVISORY C(D2) OMMITTEE ISTRICT January 13, 2004 6 ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board noted the resignation of Annie Grace Foster, District 2 appointee, and unanimously accepted the appointment of Deirdre Safikhani, by Vice Chairman Neuberger to the Children’s Services Advisory Committee, as per his memorandum of January 5, 2004. 7.C. BBDC–RF LACK EAR EVELOPMENT ORPORATION EQUEST FOR INAL PASKBB LAT PPROVAL FOR A UBDIVISION TO BE NOWN AS LACK EAR R–CCR ESERVE ONTRACT FOR ONSTRUCTION OF EQUIRED I MPROVEMENTS ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously granted final plat approval for Black Bear Reserve and authorized the Chairman to sign the Contract for Construction of Required Improvements, as recommended in the memorandum dated January 6, 2004. COPY OF CONTRACT IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD 7.D B#6033SA–WW ID AND AMPLE GREEMENT ET ELL RP(UD)–J&H EHABILITATION ROJECT TILITIES EPARTMENT W,I. ATERSTOP NC January 13, 2004 7 ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously awarded Bid #6033 to J & H Waterstop, Inc., in the amount of $126,200.00, as the lowest most responsive and responsible bidder meeting the specification as set forth in the Invitation to Bid; approved the proposed sample agreement; and authorized the Chairman to execute said agreement when required performance and payment bonds have been submitted along with appropriate certification of insurance and the County Attorney has approved the agreement as to form and legal sufficiency, as recommended in the memorandum dated January 2, 2004. CONTRACT IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD 7.E. B#6039SA–KE ID AND AMPLE GREEMENT INGSLAKE STATES WA–TCC,I.– ATER SSESSMENT REASURE OAST ONTRACTING NC UD TILITIES EPARTMENT ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously awarded Bid #6039 to Treasure Coast Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $129,048.26, as the lowest most responsive and responsible bidder meeting the specification as set forth in the Invitation to Bid; approved the proposed sample agreement and authorized the Chairman to execute said agreement when required performance and payment bonds January 13, 2004 8 have been submitted along with appropriate certification of insurance and the County Attorney has approved the agreement as to form and legal sufficiency, as recommended in the memorandum dated January 2, 2004. AGREEMENT WILL BE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD WHEN EXECUTED AND RECEIVED 7.F. ALDC PPRECIATION UNCHEON FOR EPARTMENT OF OMMUNITY ACO FFAIRS AND OUNTY FFICIALS ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, the Board unanimously authorized up to $150.00 to provide an appreciation luncheon for the Department of Community Affairs and County Officials on January 13, 2004, as requested in the memorandum dated January 7, 2004. 9.A.1. PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCE NO. 2004-001 AMENDING LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDRS) SECTION 913.09 TO REQUIRE LANDSCAPE BUFFERING ALONG COLLECTOR AND ARTERIAL ROADS FOR NEW CONVENTIONAL SUBDIVISION PROJECTS (Legislative) PROOF OF PUBLICATION OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR HEARING IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD January 13, 2004 9 Planning Division Director Stan Boling reviewed his memorandum of January 5, 2004, using the overhead to display and explain the Type “C” buffer which staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended as a requirement for new subdivisions. Blank walls will be required to have shrubs and understory trees on the outside of the wall. The Professional Services Advisory Committee reviewed this, but recommended a type of buffer with fewer plantings than a standard Type “C” or Type “D” buffer. The estimated cost for a Type “C” buffer in a new subdivision could add $300 per lot if it is not installed initially. Commissioner Macht related that he was trying to solve a situation in regard to Citrus Springs and buffering. Then in response to Commissioner Macht’s question on sound deadening on arterial roads, Director Boling advised that sound is one of the reasons for the recommendation of the buffer. A solid wall or earthen berm would have more effect that just landscaping. Often, however, sound deadening depends on the source of noise and the wind direction. In response to Chairman Ginn’s concern about buffering in multi-family zoning, Director Boling stated that subject came up at P & Z last week and he believed that an initiative would be forthcoming for the P & Z’s consideration. Chairman Ginn was pleased to learn it was coming forward at that level. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard regarding this matter. Bob Johnson , Coral Wind Subdivision, suggested that the County be required to provide the same level of buffering when the County modifies roads to allow increased traffic through or past existing residential communities. He believed the cost would be minimal. (Mr. Johnson’s written notes are on file with the backup in the office of the Clerk to the Board.) January 13, 2004 10 Brian Heady agreed with Mr. Johnson’s suggestion. He remembered when Jungle Trail looked like a jungle trail. It no longer looks that way because there is no buffering. He noted th another example, The Palms on 12 Street, which is also without buffering. John Williams , Smugglers Cove, supported Mr. Johnson’s suggestion and definitely would like similar requirements on multi-family projects. He urged the Commissioners to support multi-family buffering requirements. Public Works Director James Davis commented on the suggestion to require buffering on county road expansion projects. He cautioned the Commissioners that buffering, which is land-intensive, would require additional rights-of-way acquisition. He inquired as to the revenue source that would be used. He advised that presently, when his staff meets with each property owner for acquisition of right-of-way, the property owner is given options on landscaping or another treatment, and staff tries to comply with their desires. They do not do a broad brush on an entire corridor. Also, a masonry wall is expensive and would add several hundred thousand dollars to a project. Generally landscaping is not done in rural areas. He pointed out that impact fees are to be used for capacity improvement of the roadway and not for aesthetic enhancements. Commissioner Adams recalled a policy of putting oaks along 4-laning, and Director Davis stated that has been done in different projects. Commissioner Lowther asked if it was realized that Citrus Springs would be a large th project close to 58Avenue, and Director Davis responded that there was a large canal between the road and the development. Director Davis continued that it is appropriate to require buffers on new subdivision development but when you try to translate that into existing developed areas, such as the rd 43 Avenue project, the funding burden becomes the County’s. There is more flexibility on a new site than older subdivisions platted 50 or more years ago. Mr. Johnson distributed handouts (a copy is in the backup in the Office of the Clerk to the Board). He specified there has been no public input on the paving of 43rd Avenue, which is slated to have 5 lanes. Homeowners of existing subdivisions need some buffering protection. He January 13, 2004 11 rd recommended a workshop be held to discuss the 43 Avenue corridor. If special consideration is not given to it, it will look like US#1. rd In response to Chairman Ginn’s inquiry, Director Davis gave an update on 43 Avenue. He recounted that the design began 3-4 years ago and is now completed. Eighty percent of the right-of-way has been acquired. Staff met with all the residential property owners along the corridor. During the negotiations for temporary construction easements or rights-of-way purchase, the property owner was presented a uniform landscaping plan which has been incorporated into the project. Although the entire community had no workshop, staff has done micromanaging on each th property in the project corridor for the first phase between 8 Street and SR 60. They have worked with churches and have already built stormwater ponds to provide stormwater retention. He hoped to finish right-of-way acquisitions in 6-8 months and go to bid the end of this year or early 2005. If we do not do this project, we will be out of compliance with our LOS in the Comp Plan. Some visuals have been done which are on the wall in the Planning Department’s corridor. This project was covered at the MPO level as well. rd Commissioner Lowther wondered if Director Davis was looking to widening 43 thrd Avenue to the south of 8 Street because of the large subdivisions coming in west of 43 Avenue on Indrio Road in St. Lucie County which are likely to impact us. rd Director Davis advised there are no plans at present to widen 43 Avenue south of Oslo Road. There are some large developments coming in which will require turn lanes. Widening rdth 43 Avenue north of 26 Street is in design status now. Negotiations have been underway with the rdth Dodgers in order to 4-lane 43 Avenue up to 26 Street. th Commissioner Lowther was concerned the drop down to 2 lanes south of 8 Street SW will create a bottleneck, and Director Davis explained that a bottleneck will not be created because the attractions, employment, and commercial traffic are heaviest near the SR 60 corridor and traffic trips start to drop off as you move away from the SR 60 corridor where there are very rd few other commercial attractions and employment. The new Publix will help take extra trips off 43 January 13, 2004 12 rd Avenue. Commissioner Lowther requested Director Davis do a traffic count on 43 Avenue now th that 58 Avenue construction is complete. rd Vice Chairman Neuberger asked if the 5-laning on 43 Avenue would be open like US 1, and Director Davis specified it will be a confined 100-foot wide right-of-way. There will be no room for medians after allowing for 5 lanes, curb and gutter, and sidewalks and landscaping. The Chairman asked if anyone else wished to be heard with regard to this matter. There being none, the Chairman closed the public hearing. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Macht, the Board unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 2004-001 amending Specific Land Use Criteria, Section 913.09(3)(c)(5) regarding buffering and landscaping for subdivisions abutting collector and arterial roadways and providing for repeal of conflicting provisions, codification, severability and effective date. There was CONSENSUS to wait for P & Z’s recommendation concerning landscaping for multi-family developments. 9.B.1. PUBLIC DISCUSSION ITEM - BRIAN T. HEADY – IMPACT FEES AND CONSEQUENCES OF RECENT DECISIONS ON GROWTH OF RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS Brian Heady referred to rights under the State Constitution. He criticized the lack of backup information prior to the meeting regarding impact fees (December 23, 2003). He was unhappy that he had not been scheduled to speak on the last meeting’s agenda. January 13, 2004 13 Chairman Ginn apologized that he had not been on the agenda; she assured him it was not deliberate, but just fell thru the cracks. Mr. Heady had previously recommended that the County should impose the highest impact fees possible based on information he had presented. Staff had said it would be arbitrary and not legally defensible. He claimed it was not arbitrary since the highest fees would cover the cost we now have to pay. Chairman Ginn recounted Community Development Director Bob Keating’s remarks concerning the need to have a study done by a consultant; the Board cannot just set a price. Mr. Heady claimed the impact figures he had mentioned are correct and are legally defensible; the impact on our community continues and taxpayers end up paying for current growth. He strongly disagreed that a consultant needed to be hired. Chairman Ginn pointed out that Mr. Heady is not a professional planner and does not know all the details. When Mr. Heady continued to argue his point, she asked that he relinquish the podium because he was repeating himself. The deputy assisted Mr. Heady from the microphone. 11.E. CHILDREN’S SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE’S REQUEST CONCERNING A COMMUNITY-WIDE NEEDS ASSESSMENT Human Services Director Joyce Johnston-Carlson advised that this request came from the Children’s Services Needs Assessment Subcommittee. She advised that Donna Maurer and Tom Brown wanted to address the Board. Donna Maurer , Sebastian, Chairman of the Children’s Services Needs Assessment Subcommittee, advised this recommendation came from a meeting of her committee that perhaps it is now time to do a countywide needs assessment for Human Services, rather than just Children’s Services. It is felt it might be wise to do this now before it becomes urgent. She was proposing only the feasibility of this idea. There are agencies needing the same demographic information we need. It is thought that bringing in other agencies as a steering committee, those other agencies could help January 13, 2004 14 with funding (to find statistics and demographics) and could pool the information and save money. A comprehensive plan would provide a clearer assessment of needs and overlapping services in the community. Such a plan could be made available to a lot of organizations to provide information, enable them to apply for grants, and take some of the tax burden off the County. They would like to explore this idea to see if it will be acceptable. Tom Brown , CEO of Indian River County United Way, advised that the United Way definitely supports the concept. It would be helpful to UW and the entire community by pinpointing unmet needs so UW can channel its funds to provide more of an impact on the needs of the citizens. UW is willing to financially support the study in an appropriate amount in proportion to the other agencies involved. Chairman Ginn asked if there was anyone else wishing to speak, there were none. She then stated that it would be impossible for us to act under our ordinance and guidelines which is defined to be services for children up to 18 years of age. Ms. Maurer explained this would be a steering committee and would not take anything away from the needs assessment committee. Commissioner Macht suggested that our contribution could be specific to whatever tenets we choose to put on it. This idea was discussed several years ago with the former director of United Way and others in the community and they generally agreed it would be a more economic and comprehensive way to do it. He believed we could structure the County’s participation in whatever way our ordinance requires. Commissioner Adams thought this would be beneficial. Chairman Ginn disagreed because she viewed it as expanding the scope and we already have an up-to-date needs assessment and we have not even begun to fulfill all the unmet needs. She continued to cite additional reasons for her opposition. Commissioner Macht understood Chairman Ginn’s objections but felt that an overall study would be beneficial to the children and the community and this request is just to explore January 13, 2004 15 whether other agencies want to join in. He thought this could end up being a cost savings for the County by increasing the efficiency of determining what services are available. Chairman Ginn reiterated that the current ordinance and guidelines specify the children in our community, but this requests an assessment of “social services”. Ms. Maurer stated that should be changed to “human services”. She also pointed out that the current plan is up in 2005. We need to start working almost immediately on assessments for a new plan. Vice Chairman Neuberger saw no reason to object if the UW is interested in partially funding this study; he thought we should do our part and help them with it. He suggested considering tweaking the ordinance. Commissioner Adams recalled that in 1994, when the whole children’s services issue was being discussed, one of the main issues was that sometimes a child cannot be helped until we take care of the parents. At that point, we decided to get the children’s part taken care of and then move on to the parental or adult things that affect the children. The whole idea is to make the next generation of kids better off than they would have been. If a child’s life could be bettered by helping adults, we need to know what help they need. The whole emphasis is to make it better for the kids. Ms. Maurer pointed out that other agencies are paying their dollars to obtain the same information that cost the County $27,000. It made sense to her to have one set of statistics and demographics so there is only one payment going out. Chairman Ginn interjected that this sounds good but it is nevertheless an expansion and there is no reason why people cannot get together and share the information. Unless we change the focus in the ordinance, she would not vote for it. Beverly O’Neill , Sebastian, supported this request because resources are slim these days. She predicted we have real trouble if we do not collaborate and take a broad look at the needs in the community in order to focus on the greatest needs. She has promoted collaboration for many years and it is time to get on with it. She thinks the agencies are ready to begin to work together to gather the information and put together a plan with common goals. January 13, 2004 16 Commissioner Lowther liked the idea of collaboration and looked to the County Attorney for answers. In response to Commissioner Lowther, County Attorney Collins advised that the current ordinance does speak to providing aid to those under 18. He thought the Board has the power to do whatever they think is in the best interest of the people; it may not be under the framework of Children’s Services, but they could go in a new direction if they chose to do so. Commissioner Macht wanted to keep Children’s Services intact; he just wanted to join in this information developing, gathering and assessing. Also, we finally have the HMIS (Human Service Information System) a new tool (data base) purchased by the Homeless Assistance Center. Since 1986 we have been trying to get a comprehensive data system that all interested charitable organizations could use to increase efficiency. There would be no cost to launch this study, all it takes is the Board’s willingness to participate. The information would come back to the Board. Chairman Ginn thought this should have been brought before the whole Children’s Services Advisory Counsel. Ms. Maurer advised that it was, with one dissenting vote. Bob Johnson thought the United Way has a lot more leeway on what they can do; but the Board has a responsibility to the taxpayers. He is a member of the CSAC and asserted that the CSAC does give adults and organizations assistance to help their children. This CSAC has a brand new study. He cautioned that the Board should be careful in expanding the scope. MOTION WAS MADE by Vice Chairman Neuberger, SECONDED by Commissioner Lowther, to approve the Children’s Services Advisory Committee’s Needs Assessments Sub-Committee’s proposal that they explore the willingness of other community entities to participate in January 13, 2004 17 the Comprehensive Needs Assessment of human services and let Commissioner Macht spearhead the effort. Under discussion, Commissioner Macht advised from experience that many children’s home life situations are heartbreaking. Chairman Ginn commented this was still “expansive” The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION and the motion carried by a vote of 4-1 (Chairman Ginn opposed). (It was understood that expending any funds would have to come back to the Board for approval.) 11.I.1. NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL PARK, PHASE II, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT – EDLUND, DRITENBAS AND BINKLEY ARCHITECTS, P.A. AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING GROUP, INC. (MULTI-PURPOSE BALL FIELDS, PLAYGROUND, COMPLETE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, COMPLETE MITIGATIONS, MAINTENANCE BUILDING, CONCESSION STAND/PRESS BOX WITH RESTROOMS, AND SUPPORTING FACILITIES) ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Neuberger, the Board unanimously approved the construction of four (4) multi-purpose ball fields, playground, complete stormwater management January 13, 2004 18 system, complete mitigations, maintenance building, concession stand/press box with restrooms, and other supporting facilities, as recommended by staff in the memorandum dated January 6, 2004. (Alternative No. 1) AGREEMENTS ARE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD 11.I.2. FAIRGROUNDS – ROAD PAVING TO SOCCER COMPLEX AND AGRICULTURAL EXHIBIT BUILDING – FUNDING ALLOCATION ON MOTION by Commissioner Lowther, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Neuberger, the Board unanimously approved Option #1, that is, to pave both the soccer complex road (2,250 l. f.) at an estimated cost of $127,625 and to pave the agricultural exhibit building east road to join with the soccer complex road (1,600 l. f.) at an estimated cost of $90,500, for a total cost for the two roads of approximately $218,125, as recommended by staff in the memorandum of January 7, 2004. 11.J. THE INLET AT SEBASTIAN – OFF-SITE UTILITIES CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT – CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 AND REQUEST FOR FINAL PAYMENT ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Neuberger, the Board unanimously January 13, 2004 19 approved final payment including all retainage held in the total amount of $36,232.74 to The Inlet at Sebastian LLC, as presented in Attachment A, and as recommended in the memorandum dated December 23, 2003. CHANGE ORDER IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD 12. COUNTY ATTORNEY – WELLER POOL CONSTRUCTORS V. INDIAN RIVER COUNTY (NORTH COUNTY POOL) Deputy County Attorney Will Collins reviewed the memorandum. Both he and our special counsel believe the County has good defenses in this lawsuit and both recommend against accepting the settlement offer of $200,000 from Weller Pool Constructors. There was a brief discussion. ON MOTION by Commissioner Macht, SECONDED by Vice Chairman Neuberger, the Board unanimously declined Weller’s settlement offer in the amount of $200,000 and approved proceeding to trial, as recommended in the memorandum dated January 7, 2004. 13.E. COMMISSIONER KENNETH R. MACHT – COMMENT ON TREES Commissioner Macht announced that in the interest of political correctness he loves trees. He learned that the 48” diameter tree referred to under Item 9.A.4. at last week’s meeting is January 13, 2004 20 a laurel oak and is near the end of its life. The Board had given direction to staff to save that oak tree st on 41 Avenue. Vice Chairman Neuberger reported that he had looked at it and described the tree as decrepit and not worth saving. Public Works Director James Davis advised that an expert had submitted a report that the tree is diseased and probably needs to come down anyway as a safety issue because the branches are brittle and could fall. Commissioner Lowther suggested that next time something like this comes up, it would be good to have a photograph and Director Davis advised that staff would be glad to do that. Chairman Ginn understood the tree was distressed and in decline. ON MOTION BY Commissioner Macht, who reiterated his love for trees, SECONDED BY Chairman Ginn, the Board unanimously approved allowing Public Works to do whatever they think is appropriate with regard to the tree in question. 14.A. EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT The Chairman announced that immediately upon adjournment, the Board would reconvene as the Board of Commissioners of the Emergency Services District. Those Minutes are being prepared separately. January 13, 2004 21 14.B. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT None. 14.C. ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD None. ALL BACKUP DOCUMENTATION, RESOLUTIONS, AND ORDINANCES ARE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD AND ARE HEREBY MADE A PART OF THESE MINUTES At 10:21 a.m., Chairman Ginn called a recess until 11:00 for Item 5.D. which had been scheduled for that time. The meeting was reconvened at 11:00 a.m. with all members present. The minutes for Item 5.D. are written in their normal agenda sequence above for continuity. At its conclusion and there being no further business, on motion duly made, seconded and carried, the Board adjourned at 11:21 a.m. ATTEST: _________________________________ ________________________________ Jeffrey K. Barton, Clerk Caroline D. Ginn, Chairman Minutes Approved: _________________ BCC/PMR/MINUTES January 13, 2004 22