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Home My WebLink About07/16/2008 (2)OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF JULY 16, 2008 CALLTO ORDER.....................................................................................................1 INVOCATION............................................................................................................1 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE...................................................................................1 GENERAL OVERVIEW - JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR............................................................................. 2 GENERALFUND...................................................................................................... 2 MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT(M.S.TU)............................................. 4 TRANSPORTATION FUND.................................................................................... 5 EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT - FIRE RESCUE ................................. 6 AGGREGATE MILLAGE - STATE PROPOSED AGGREGATE MILLAGE7 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND ............. 7 2004 REFERENDUM................................................................................................ 7 1 July 16, 2008 STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS.......................................................................... 7 OTHERM.S.B.U........................................................................................................ 7 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS............................................................................... 7 ENTERPRISEFUNDS.............................................................................................. 8 SHOOTINGRANGE......................................................................... 8 GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE..................................................... 8 BUILDING DEPARTMENT............................................................... 9 UTILITY SER VICES......................................................................... 9 UTILITIES - IMPACT FEE.............................................................. 9 MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS.................................................................................... 9 CAPITAL PROJECTS............................................................................................10 SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.).........................................12 CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS.........................................................................13 CLERK OF COURT- JEFFREYK. BARTON.................................. 13 TAX COLLECTOR - CHARLES SEMBLER..................................... 14 PROPERTYAPPRAISER-DAVID C. NOLTE................................. 14 SHERIFF- ROYRAYMOND.......................................................... 15 SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS - KAY CLEM.................................. 15 VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD ...................................................... 16 NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES..................................................16 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS......................................................................19 OA July 16, 2008 QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS........................................................ 21 CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM ................................................ 22 CHILDREN'S SERVICES...................................................................................... 22 DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT ............................ 22 yI-M I: ►[Ke av oWlIWra,IX 11WIIVA01o]WVAIWINII\ 7�I bra ADJOURNMENT..................................................................................................... 24 3 July 16, 2008 July 16, 2008 BUDGET WORKSHOP OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met at the County Commission Chambers, 180127 th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, July 16, 2008, to conduct a Budget Workshop. Present were Chairman Sandra L. Bowden, Vice Chairman Wesley S. Davis, and Commissioners Joseph E. Flescher, Peter D. O'Bryan, and Gary C. Wheeler. Also present were County Administrator Joseph A. Baird, Management and Budget Director Jason E. Brown, County Attorney William G. Collins II, and Deputy Clerk Leona Adair Allen. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Bowden called the workshop to order at 9:03 a.m. INVOCATION Public Works Director James Davis delivered the Invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairman Bowden led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. July 16, 2008 1 GENERAL OVERVIEW - JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Administrator Baird presented the 2008/2009 proposed Budget of $289,701,971, showing a decrease of about $175,346,573 or 37.71%. He acknowledged that preparing this year's budget was difficult due to the national economy, Amendment I, and the decline in real estate values. He reported that there were no proposed increases, and that he would be asking $5.2 million dollars less from the ad valorem taxpayer. Administrator Baird disclosed that the Operating Budget was 7.4% less, due to permit fees, interest income, and the half -cent sales tax being down. He said that even with that, they tried to come in with a budget that would reduce taxes. Administrator Baird outlined major budget impacts, emphasizing that due to Amendment I, the County lost $5.0 million dollars in taxing funds; $5.2 million due to decreased values; $1,450,115 from the economic slowdown; interest earnings were down approximately $1,234,155; fuel costs had increased by $623.525; and electric increased by $169,334. He explained that travel was reduced by $111,431; the biggest reduction and expense was eliminating 86 positions (11 from Constitutional Officers and 75 from the Board of County Commissioner Departments), amounting to $4,752,799 in savings. Additionally, the new County requirement for health insurance, increased the budget by $2.7 million. GENERAL FUND Administrator Baird informed the Board that the overall budget is $81,974,684, showing a decrease of $2,882,721. He announced that between Amendment I and the real estate decline, a value of $4,000,000 was lost. Eliminated positions accounted for a reduction of $1,414,872; an increase of $1,503,447 for OPEB expenses (other post employment benefits), and there was an increase of $59,524 for fuel costs. He pointed out that this budget had been reduced the least by external factors, such as State Mandates, Constitutional Officers, and the Judges' costs. July 16, 2008 2 Administrator Baird continued his presentation outlining proposed budgets, and reductions, or increases as follows: Board of County Commissioners Operation - $1,067,339 8.17% reduction County Attorney - $866,206 1.92% increase Communications/Emergency Service - $416,862 0.61% reduction Main Library - $2,663,189 13.40% reduction Medicaid - $673,000 0.00% North County Library - $1,096,148 13.35% reduction Soil Conservation - $58,552 45.01% reduction Law Library - $126,874 13.72% reduction Administrator - $533,408 2.95% reduction General Services - $215,104 0.37% increase Human Resources - $495,244 21.81% reduction Planning and Development - 0 100% reduction Veterans Services - $239,632 19.15% reduction Emergency Management - $419,074 13.13% reduction Parks - $2,415,220 3.85% reduction Human Services - $385,368 9.07% reduction AG Extension - $163,462 21.22% reduction Youth Guidance - $137,776 17.55% reduction Purchasing - $212,307 13.06% reduction Facilities Management - $4,100,936 11.03% reduction Office of Management and Budget - $354,880 2.65% reduction FPL Grant - $105,536 28.69% reduction Emergency Base Grant - $89,837 7.06% reduction Computer Services - $629,194 13.79% reduction Animal Control - $490,353 1.60% reduction July 16, 2008 3 Mailroom - $408,226 7.23% reduction Citrus BMP Grant - 0 100% reduction Chairman Bowden sought clarity regarding the increase in the County Attorney's fund. County Attorney Collins explained that $10,500 of the $16,316 increase is for post employment benefits that are carried on the account for the first time; and that $3,000 is for the Florida Retirement System contributions, which are fixed by Statute. He told how 94% of his budget is used for salaries, and by Ordinance "attorney employees" are required to be under contract. He revealed that after speaking with his employees that there would be negotiations of reduction in future contracts. After a brief discussion among the Board and Administrator Baird, Chairman Bowden announced that the Board would re -address the County Attorney's funds, and the elimination of the Animal Control position at the end of the meeting. MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.TU) Administrator Baird reported the MSTU proposed millage this year as 1.0804, 9% below the rollback rate. He presented the proposed budget as $28,796,712, a decrease of $1,372,206, and said that the departments decreased by $972,180, down 14.0%. He summarized the overall departmental expenses as follows: North County Aquatic Center - $898,369 1.88% increase Gifford Aquatic Center - $310,083 21.74% reduction Recreation - $1,322,179 21.70% reduction Ocean Rescue - $962,247 5.51% reduction Community Development - $216,691 2.91% increase County Planning - $1,305,649 22.92% reduction Code Enforcement - $578,589 9.44% reduction July 16, 2008 4 Parks Roads and Bridges Telecommunications Tax Collector - $123,399 0 $143,697 - $90,000 0.00% 100.00% 13.96% reduction 0.00% Administrator Baird revealed that departmental expenses were $5,950,903, a decrease of 14.04%, and at the request of Commissioner Wheeler, he explained the $90,000 allocation for the Tax Collector. Administrator Baird told the Board that the transfer out of the Transportation Budget was $6,007,749, a decrease of 7.26%; and the transfer out of Law Enforcement (Sheriff's office) was $15,192,361, a .11% decrease from last year. Commissioner O'Bryan asked if there were any Code Enforcement Officer positions lost. Budget Director Jason Brown informed him that there was a decrease of one position, but the number of Code Enforcement Officers had stayed the same. TRANSPORTATION FUND Administrator Baird acknowledged that this is not a taxing budget; and that it receives about 70% of its revenue from transfers of the General Fund and MSTU. He noted that the Transportation proposed budget is $16,306,066, a decrease of 7.10%. He announced that staffing reductions account for a savings of $1,411,871; gas taxes account for $80,252, a decrease of 3.2%; fuel cost increased by $288,776, or 58.8%; and the OPEB expense was $205,637. He specified that several of the positions eliminated were in the field and were already vacant. There was a brief discussion regarding the positions that were eliminated and the impacted services. July 16, 2008 5 Administrator Baird announced that the Road and Bridge Department showed a proposed budget of $8,182,474, a 4.63% reduction; Public Works is $527,371, a 23.04% reduction; County Engineering is $2,381,649, a 19.29% reduction; Traffic Engineering $2,432,773, a 8.88% reduction; Real Estate Acquisition showed zero, and Stormwater $711,681, a 19.47% increase. The total Transportation Department's proposed budget is $14,235,948, a 8.86% reduction. The General and Administrative charges were $1,001,452, a 6.69% reduction; the Contingency was $303,666, an increase of 223.72%; for a total proposed budget of $16,306,066, a reduction of 7.10%. EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT - FIRE RESCUE Administrator Baird pointed out that the Emergency Services District millage history reflected 9.7% below rollback, with a proposed rate of 1.7148, and the proposed budget is $28,501,218, a decrease of 17.1%. He further explained that this is a taxing district which everyone pays into, except Indian River Shores, and that it is used for emergency services. He said that Amendment I caused a decrease of $1,433,357, or 5.2%; real estate was down $1,161,073, a 4.2% decrease; station repairs, replacements and/or upgrades decreased by $4,084,044; fuel costs increased by about $92,268, or 33.6%; additional positions for Stations 6 and 11 was an annualized cost increase of $229,985; and the OPEB requirement had increased expenses by $532,685. The Board briefly discussed the cash balance of the Fire Rescue Capital Expense account, the various new stations/sites throughout the County, millage rates, and funding for the jail's air conditioning system. July 16, 2008 6 AGGREGATE MILLAGE - STATE PROPOSED AGGREGATE MILLAGE Director Brown announced that the proposed aggregate millage rate is 5.1628, compared to a current rate of 5.1726, a 0.8% decrease, and 8% below the rollback rate. ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND - 2004 REFERENDUM Administrator Baird said that on the first Land Acquisition Bond, the millage is proposed at .1357, rollback does not apply, the millage is the same as last year, and the total proposed budget is $2,428,658. The $50 million bond proposed debt service is $4,797,340, a $28,000 increase, roll back does not apply, the proposed millage is .2863, with last year's millage at .2725. STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS Administrator Baird referred to page 42 of the Backup for the per parcel/acre charges under the Streetlighting Districts, and did not detail the line items or proposed dollar figures. OTHER M.S.B.U. Administrator Baird pointed out that the East Gifford Stormwater, Watershed M.S.B.U. proposed budget is $1,995, with a $15.00 per parcel/acre charge; and the Vero Lake Estates M.S.B.U. (for roads and drainage) proposed budget is $437,221, $174 less than last year, with a $19.00 per parcel/acre charge. INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget for Fleet Management is $3,811,718, a $182,972 reduction from last year. He explained that this budget is large due to fuel, and disclosed that there was a reduction of one position. July 16, 2008 7 The total budget for self-insurance (workers' comprehensive and general liability) is $7,096,305, a $45,006 reduction from last year. Administrator Baird told the Board that under the Employee Health Insurance budget the County is self-insured for $14,466,404, a $75,214 increase. Under the Geographic Info Systems Department, the proposed budget is $864,289, a $806,119 decrease, which included a startup cost. Administrator Baird informed the Board that the budget presentation was running ahead of schedule and suggested, if the Board desired, they review the Enterprise and Miscellaneous budgets that were scheduled for tomorrow. The Commissioners had no objection. There was CONSENSUS among Board members to hear the Enterprise Funds and Miscellaneous Funds that were originally scheduled for tomorrow's Budget Hearing. ENTERPRISE FUNDS year. SHOOTING RANGE Administrator Baird said the proposed budget is $422,098, an increase of $907 from last GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE Administrator Baird said the Golf Course proposed budget is $3,305,650, a $15,089 increase from last year. He acknowledged that one position was eliminated. July 16, 2008 8 BUILDING DEPARTMENT The Building Department's proposed budget is $2,597,756, a reduction of $795,668. He noted that numerous positions had been eliminated. UTILITYSERVICES Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget $40,518,897, a $586,658 increase from last year. UTILITIES — IMPACT FEE The proposed budget is $3,028,885, $1,617,903 less than last year. MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS Administrator Baird announced the following proposed budgets: Road Improvement Fees $0.00 $1,658,845 reduction New Traffic Improvement Fees $3,659,500 $62,099,905 reduction Additional Impact Fees $3,418,454 $1,999,812 reduction Court Facilities Fund $35,000 same as last year Housing Authority $141,470 $21,331 reduction Rental Assistance $1,816,390 $319,865 reduction Secondary Road Construction $3,763,413 $35,315,096 reduction Special Law Enforcement Fund $0.00 $6,368 reduction Parks Development $25,000 same as last year Tree Ordinance Fines $50,000 same as last year, Tourist Development Fund $597,500 $20,125 reduction 911 Surcharge Proposed Budget $623,290 $10,515 increase Drug Abuse Fund $41,931 $85,848 reduction IRCLHAP/SHIP $1,784,532 $56,491 reduction Metro Planning Organization (MPO) $656,694 $187,770 reduction July 16, 2008 9 Native Uplands Acquisition Fund $55,000 Beach Restoration Fund $3,770,699 Florida Boating Improvement Program $515,000 Library Bequest Fund $50,000 Disabled Access Programs $20,000 Intergovernmental Grants $652,271 Traffic Education Program $60,548 CDBG Disaster Recovery Grant/HHR Grant $1,895,000 Court Facility Surcharge Fund $131,006 Additional Court Costs Fund $110,274 Court Technology Fund $321,620 Land Acquisition Series 2006 $80,000 Dodger Bonds $1,239,633 CAPITAL PROJECTS same as last year $7,659,425 reduction $100,000 reduction $50,000 increase same as last year $157,509 increase $16,444 reduction $5,897,097 reduction $6,937 increase $31,018 reduction $192,448 reduction $18,010,396 reduction $4,430 reduction The Dodgertown Capital Reserve Fund reflected a proposed budget of $0, and a decrease of $1,500,000. Chairman Bowden called a break at 10:29 a. m. and reconvened the Workshop at 11: 07 a.m., with all Commissioners present. She welcomed input from the public. Robert Walsh, member of the Taxpayers Association, provided the Board with a brief history of the operation and expenses of the public shooting range. He felt that a $10.00 membership or card fee should be implemented, and emphasized that if it could not be, then the operation should be turned over to the Recreation Department. July 16, 2008 10 Administrator Baird explained the situation, and assured Mr. Walsh that the public shooting range would be moved from the Enterprise Fund to the Recreation Fund by next year. Katherine Wegel, 8060 142nd Street, Sebastian, spoke in opposition to the proposed budget cuts for Extension Services, which reduced 2 1/2 of the 4 1/Z positions, a 60% cut. She believed that the minimal savings would not be practical, and emphasized, as a Master Gardner, that cutting the two and one half positions (Horticulture, Citrus, and Water Quality agents) would be detrimental to the County. Helene Caseltine, Director of Economic Development for the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, acknowledged that her office had submitted a 36% budget reduction, in lieu of the requested 25%. She announced that all print advertising had been cut as recommended by the Economic Development Counsel Advisory Board. Wayne Schasane, Lieutenant with Fire Services, wanted to know if his Emergency Services District (ESD) proposed budget could be distributed two weeks prior to the Workshop in the future, since he has so many areas to review. Administrator Baird said that he was under the impression that the departments had picked up their proposed budgets last month. Discussion ensued with regards to the Fund Balance, Capital Projects, Ad Valorem taxes, and utility charges for fire hydrants. Commissioner Wheeler, at the request of Chairman Bowden, agreed to organize a committee that would address fire hydrant issues. Mr. Schasane scrutinized and sought clarification on his proposed budget. Chairman Bowden directed staff to provide Mr. Schasane with the Master Plan. July 16, 2008 11 Mark Daniels, Secretary and Treasurer of the IFF Local Firefighter and Paramedics, wanted to know the fund balance for the Emergency Services District. Director Brown informed him that after the anticipated projects, there would be about $7 million, indicating that Station No. 9 would use about $2 million. He further explained the expenses of the other fire stations, impact fees, and optional sales tax. Joel Molinari, 1025 54th Avenue, voiced concern over the reductions of Non -Profit Organizations, Children Services, and Community Redevelopment Agencies. He wanted clarification as to why the Humane Society had not dropped dollars in their proposed budget. Administrator Baird justified why the County has been paying the Humane Society to provide services, feeling it to be more cost effective. He noted that the Non -Profits are discretionary, and reasoned that staff decided that this year they could not afford any increases due to the tax roll, interest income, and revenues all being down. Mr. Molinari informed Commissioner Wheeler that he would be interested in assisting him with organizing a Fire Hydrant Committee. The Chairman announced that the Workshop would adjourn for lunch at 12:23 p.m., and return at 1:30 p.m. The Chairman reconvened the Workshop at 1:33 p.m. with all members present. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.) Administrator Baird announced the proposed budget at $11,621,986, $219,384 less than last year. He proposed a reduction of about 7% in the following rates: Commercial — Waste Generation Unit - $28.32 $1.54 reduction July 16, 2008 12 Residential — Waste Generation Unit - $40.94 $3.10 reduction Equivalent Residential Unit - $65.50 $4.96 reduction Readiness -To -Use Fee - $17.41 $1.46 reduction Administrator Baird said the landfill charges were reduced by eliminating two full time CD spotters, and renegotiating the hauling contracts, plus engineering costs are currently down. Director Brown said that allowing residents to recycle more (cardboard, milk containers, plastics 3 through 7, newspapers and junk mail) would allow the County to be able to recycle more and save less. The Chairman opened the Public Hearing. Seeing no one, the Chairman closed the Public Hearing. ON MOTION by Vice Chair Davis, SECONDED by Commissioner Wheeler, the Board unanimously approved staff's recommendation on the Solid Waste Disposal District. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS CLERK OF COURT — JEFFREY K. BARTON Clerk of Circuit Court, Jeffrey Barton presented his budget for fiscal year 2008/2009, acknowledging that the Clerk to the Board, Finance, and the Value Adjustment Board were all included. He pointed out that his budget contains 16.12 FET (full-time equivalent) employees and OPEB expenses, for a total request of $1,037,828. Administrator Baird announced that the Clerk's budget was $1,112,828, a $48,478, or 4.2% decrease. July 16, 2008 13 In response to Vice Chairman Davis' inquiry, Mr. Barton confirmed that there is no more than $100,000 in any one institution. He explained the banking agreement, investments, and how CD's (Certificate of Deposit) are placed with institutions. TAX COLLECTOR — CHARLES SEMBLER Administrator Baird said that due to a glitch in the system, this budget is not officially due until August 1, 2008. He reported that the Tax Collector's budget is estimated at $1,265,104, an increase of 5.0%. Assistant Tax Collector Jeff Smith, on behalf of Charles Sembler, acknowledged that the budget is in the process of being "fine-tuned" and that it would be turned in to the Florida Department of Revenue by August 1 st. He anticipated the budget cuts would be in compliance, and said that a "record number of dollars" would be returned to the County. PROPERTYAPPRAISER — DAVID C. NOLTE Administrator Baird reported this budget to be $2,863,537, which is $57,619 more than last year, a 2.1 % increase. He clarified that the increase was due to OPEB requirements, and acknowledged that five positions were eliminated. Property Appraiser, David Nolte acknowledged that his overall budget was down 8.51%. He asked the Board for their assistance in resolving a recent situation. He explained that in the past he had received aerial photographs by the State, usually in August; but now, "due to some bureaucrat having drawn a line on a piece of paper, they want to fly us again next year," at a cost of $75,000, for an updated aerial. He emphasized that his office requires new aerials every four years, not every year. Mr. Nolte disclosed that the Legislature had put $75,000 of unfunded state mandated dollars into his budget, and he felt this to be ridiculous since he had to reduce personnel over the past two years due to funding. He said that when he asked to be "opted out" July 16, 2008 14 he was told that he could not be, so he suggested that the Commissioners accompany him to Washington to argue this with the Governor. Commissioner Wheeler suggested contacting the Lobbyist. SHERIFF — ROY RAYMOND Sheriff Raymond called attention to the utility expenses that keep showing up on his budget. He said he had requested this to be removed last year, but it was still being reflected. Administrator Baird apologized, agreeing to take it out of his budget. He said the General Fund showed the Sheriff's office had $41,429,172, a reduction of $851,279, or 2.1%. Sheriff Raymond attempted to put his final budget into perspective by detailing his budget's history. He called attention to what he felt was a critical time in our County's ability to provide adequate emergency services, and felt that he was submitting an inadequate budget to meet the challenges of 2008/2009. He said he cut all he could while still maintaining a responsible budget. His 2008/2009 budget is proposed at $42,639,643. 29.7%. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS — KAY CLEH Administrator Baird said this proposed budget is $1,157,375, a reduction of $488,289, or Supervisor of Elections Kay Clem told how incredibly hard this year had been since they were assigned a new voting system by the Governor and Legislature. She explained that the cost of the operating equipment is about one-third of her yearly budget, and that every year thereafter it would continually be increased. She divulged that she had provided a 15% budget cut, but now that she has to spend $300,000 each year printing paper ballots, it is like a 45% cut to her July 16, 2008 15 budget. Ms. Clem detailed her budget cuts and asked the Board to advance her 50% up front since the budget year starts October 1 st, and she has to pay for the November election. Director Brown said he would check with the Attorney's office for the proper procedure and bring this back to the Board. VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD Administrator Baird told how this year's budget has been $24,000, but due to an additional expense from a state mandate, the proposed budget increased to $169,500. He explained how this additional expense requires the Value Adjustment Board to use outside counsel in lieu of our County Attorneys. Commissioner Wheeler felt the public should know that a lot of the County's expenses are directed from the Legislature. NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES Administrator Baird presented the recommended budgets for the following entities and explained the reasons for the reductions: New Horizons - recommended $384,300, a reduction of 8.50% from last year. John Romano, CEO of New Horizons, informed the Board that the State had cut his budget by $710,000. He revealed that the Governor reimbursed him for those funds, but he is going to give the money to the County for doctor services. He asked the Board not to cut his budget, and divulged that if they do, the cuts would come from services, which had provided over $3.1 million of services to Indian River County residents. State Health Department - recommended $734,900, a reduction of 8.50%. July 16, 2008 16 Miranda Swanson, Health Department Administrator, thanked staff for their support of the Health Department. She assured the Board that her staff would continue to look for efficiencies in making the best of their budget. State Forest Service - recommended $14,234, an increase of 13 3.3 1 % (this is a State formula). Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council - recommended $58,163, same as last year (this is a State formula). Department of Juvenile Justice - recommended $466,365, a reduction of 3.36%. Environmental Control Board - recommended$18,970, a reduction of 8.89%. Circuit Court Expenses - recommended $30,000, a reduction of 70.00%. Circuit Court Judges - recommended $14,547, a reduction of 1.24%. Tom Genung, Trial Courts Administrator, spoke on behalf of the Judges to justify the need to retain the $60,000 which is proposed to be reduced from their budget. He told the Board that the proposed budget from the Administration would be the entire elimination of their IT hardware and software. He indicated that their monies are generated through housing transactions which provide part of the funding under Section 28.24 of the Florida Statutes, and that Florida Statute, Section 29.008, requires the County to fund certain items for the Courts, including their technology needs. Mr. Genung emphasized that there is no funding outside of what the County provides through the Constitution and Statute. He thereafter responded to questions regarding "critically needed" software, and the number of computers, laptops, and servers in the Court system. July 16, 2008 17 Administrator Baird acknowledged that Article V was supposed to have solved the problem by being fee based, and he explained a "glitch in the law" whereby if the money is not covered, technology expenses would become the County's responsibility. County Attorney Collins confirmed that there is a requirement that the Chief Judge certify reasonable and necessary expenses, then the Board determines whether, and to what extent to provide funding. He acknowledged that the expenditures are supposed to increase 1.5% over the prior year, and told of the consequences, should the County not meet its obligation. Administrator Baird acknowledged that more money needed to be put into the Court Administration budget, and suggested Mr. Genung and staff meet after the meeting to reach a settlement. Guardian Ad Litem - recommended $12,000, same as last year. Victim's Assistance Program - recommended $59,722, a reduction of 15.00%. Jennifer Manis, Senior Secretary with the Guardian Ad Litem Program, told the Board that Indian River County has over fifty volunteers and that it is the most active in the State. She brought attention to the IT services, saying that they require $29,900 to continue maintaining their computers. Director Brown acknowledged that this item is from the same funding source as the Court Administration. He said that the Attorney's office had directed the County to fund this source when there is a shortfall. State Attornev Office - recommended $43,037, a reduction of 2.43%. Public Defender - recommended $7,536, a reduction of 6.80%. July 16, 2008 18 Medical Examiner - recommended $345,892, an increase of 8.33% (on a formula agreement). Director Brown told the Board that a revised request was received from the Medical Examiner which was slightly lower at $341,117 (about $4,700 less). He said that he would try to work this change into the budget at the end of today's meeting. The Chairman called a break at 2: 57 p.m. and reconvened the Workshop at 3:16 p.m., with all Commissioners present. Daniel Clermont, 2267 Magans Ocean Walk, member of the Taxpayers' Association, reviewed expense statistics between the public and private sector. Rick Stock, member of the Taxpayer's Association and retired Deputy Warden, suggested the Sheriff's office implement a plan to cross -train and/or redistribute workloads so there would not be a sizeable impact on the County taxpayers. Administrator Baird said that cross -training and having people performing more than one function is how the County was able to eliminate positions. He admitted that the County has been cross -training and shifting responsibility so as not to reduce services. Dan Stanley, on behalf of the Veterans Council, thanked the Board for their continued support of the Council, and their transportation program. NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Administrator Baird informed the Board that all the funding was eliminated from this budget for the regular non-profit organizations, and indicated that there were people in the audience who wished to speak. July 16, 2008 19 Kristine Sarkauskas, President and CEO of the County Mental Health Association and a part of the Mental Health Collaborative, told how requested funding in 2006/2007 had allowed for the Mental Health Walk-in Center program. She emphasized that the Mental Health Collaborative and the Mental Health Walk-in Center is the only program of its kind in the County. She said she is seeking support from the United Way and County Hospital District, but expressed that $75,000 is still desperately needed from the County. Ellie McCabe, 331 Indian Harbor Road, President of the McCabe Foundation, shared her passion and commitment to the quality of life in Indian River County. She felt there was a lack of services in the County, and pointed out that most people requiring mental services resort to the emergency room or jail, a costly and ineffective form of treatment. She felt that the solution to this endeavor is the Mental Health Walk-in Center. She urged the Board to continue supporting the Mental Health Association's Walk-in Center. Administrator Baird announced the following two Non -Profits: Veterans Council - recommended $74,940, an increase of $5,490. Administrator Baird clarified that the County pays for the drivers and the Veterans pay for the fuel. Keep Indian River Beautiful - recommended $56,250, a 25.00% decrease. Joe Martorana, 5151 North AIA, suggested the County use the words "Waste Recovery" in lieu of "Refuse Disposal." He felt it would convey the message of recycling. Allan Klotsche, 476 Eugenia Road, was involved in the founding of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program, and requested that the County continue to support the Jump into Reading program. He felt that cutting the program would send the message that "literacy is not important." July 16, 2008 20 OUASI-NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Administrator Baird announced the recommended budgets for the following entities: Communitv Transportation - recommended $501,733, a reduction of 46.74% Cultural Council - recommended $40,454, a reduction of 25.00% Economic Development Division - recommended $99,620, a reduction of 36.31% Gifford Youth Center - recommended $105,307, a reduction of 27.98% Gifford Civic League - recommended $15,000, a reduction of 21.05% Humane Societv - recommended $395,547, same as last year (contract per animal) Homeless Services Council - recommended $17,859, a reduction of 25.00% Commissioner O'Bryan wanted to know if the Community Transportation Grant would fully fund the transit system. Administrator Baird said that it would come to the Board for a percentage matching vote. Gordon Willard, Executive Director of the Humane Society in Vero Beach, related how the animal control components deal with public safety and quality of life issues. He told how the Humane Society's function with the County is providing services through a contract of mandated services, and emphasized that the rate that the County pays is substantially discounted. Melanie Jones-Neach, 343 13th Street SW, spoke on behalf of KIRB, focusing on the recycling program within the County. She said that partnering with the Solid Waste Disposal District had increased recycling, exceeding $100,000.00 in revenues. Now that the recycling program has been expanded, she hopes they will have the opportunity to promote, educate, and continue to assist the residents with recycling. July 16, 2008 21 CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM Director Brown announced that the recommended budget is $17,000, the same as last year; and their funding source comes from the Choose Life license plate sales. CHILDREN'S SERVICES Director Brown said the recommended funding is $882,700, a 19.8% decrease from the current year. He reminded the Board that in March staff recommended a cut of 25%, which they had approved, anticipating a 15% shortfall. Miranda Swanson, Chair of the Children Services Advisory Committee, told how the committee had made difficult decisions this year due to funding cuts. DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT Administrator Baird stated that the recommended funding is $60,548. He informed the Board that the County no longer levies the $3.00 charge on traffic tickets, so the remaining balance was equally split between the County School Board and St. Edwards Upper School. SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA Administrator Baird revealed that due to property values being down, $255,217 would be transferred to Sebastian, and $34,715 would be transferred to Fellsmere. The Chairman announced that the budget process was completed; and she wanted to regress to concerns from earlier in the meeting. Attorney Collins reminded the Board that earlier in the morning he had shown his budget at $16,316, a 1.92% increase, and that he was asked to "zero it out." He clarified the line items in his budget and acknowledged that he had further examined what was budgeted for his Deputy County Attorney and Senior Assistant County Attorney. He disclosed that they had committed July 16, 2008 22 to re -work their contracts to effectively drop their budgeted salaries by about 5.5% percent, which would save over $12,143, and bring a slight decrease to his budget, as requested. Administrator Baird emphasized that he did not recommended this kind of change, since everyone else in the workforce receives normal raises. He did not feel that it was fair for the Legal Department to cut two employees and allow the others to gain raises. Vice Chairman Davis preferred taking the increase back to zero, not $16,000, and allowing Attorney Collins to use his own creativity in making the necessary budget cuts. Commissioners Flescher, O'Bryan and Bowden agreed. Vice Chairman Davis voiced concern over the Animal Control Officer that was cut from the budget. Administrator Baird told him that this was his last cut in the General Fund, and he felt that it could be added back, with the Board's approval. There was a CONSENSUS among the Board members to add the Animal Control position back into the budget. Chairman Bowden felt it crucial and most important to consider adding the County's one- third share of the Mental Health Walk-in Center back into the budget. Administrator Baird noted that in the past, lower income families were going to St. Lucie County to seek treatment. He said that staff had met with the hospital and agreed to fund our share of the walk-in clinic. He suggested the Board fund it with $67,500, the same as last year. There was CONSENSUS of the Board to add the $67,500 back into the budget. Administrator Baird divulged that the General Fund is an $80,000,000.00 budget, and indicated that there was risk, due to revenues being down, but he felt sure that these changes could be absorbed. He acknowledged that money would need to be put back into the Court Administration and Guardian Ad Litem funds, bringing the total to about $200,000.00 out of the cash balance. July 16, 2008 23 Nf 132 be Off (Clerk's Note: All business was completed in one day and therefore a meeting on July 17, 2008 was not necessary and was not held) ALL BACKUP DOCUMENTATION INCLUDING AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD AND IS HEREBY MADE A PART OF THESE MINUTES ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Chairman declared the Budget Workshop adjourned at 4:11 p.m. ATTEST: v Jeffrey . Barton, Clerk S ra L. Bowden, Chairman Minutes Approved: SEP - 9 2008 LAA July 16, 2008 24 at 135 PG 497