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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/18/2007 (2)INDEX TO MINUTES OF BUDGET WORKSHOP OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF JULY 18, 2007 CALL TO ORDER 1 INVOCATION 1 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 1 GENERAL OVERVIEW - JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY 1 ADMINISTRATOR 1 GENERAL FUND 2 MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.TU) 5 TRANSPORTATION FUND 7 EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT - FIRE RESCUE 8 AGGREGATE MILLAGE 10 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND 11 July 18, 2007 1 STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS 11 OTHER M.S.B.U. 12 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 12 MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS 12 ENTERPRISE FUNDS 14 SHOOTING RANGE 14 CLUBHOUSE (GOLF COURSE) 14 BUILDING DEPARTMENT 15 UTILITY SERVICES 15 UTILITY IMPACT FEES 15 SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.) 15 CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS 16 CLERK OF COURT - JEFFREY BARTON 16 TAX COLLECTOR - CHARLES W. SEMBLER 16 PROPERTY APPRAISER - DAVID C. NOLTE 16 CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS (CONTINUED) 17 SHERIFF-ROYRAYMOND 17 SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS -KAY CLEM 18 NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES 18 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 19 July 18, 2007 2 QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 22 CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM 24 DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT 24 CHILDREN'S SERVICES 24 SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 24 FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 24 ANNOUNCEMENTS 25 PUBLIC HEARINGS ON TENTATIVE AND FINAL BUDGET AND MILLAGE RATES 25 ADJOURNMENT 26 July 18, 2007 3 July 18, 2007 BUDGET WORKSHOP OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met at the County Commission Chambers, 1840 25th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 to conduct a Budget Workshop. Present were Chairman Gary C. Wheeler, Vice Chair Sandra S. Bowden, Commissioners Wesley S. Davis, Joseph E. Flescher and Peter D. O'Bryan. Also present were County Administrator Joseph A. Baird, Management & Budget Director Jason E. Brown, County Attorney William G. Collins II, and Deputy Clerk Athena Adams. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Wheeler called the workshop to order at 9:01 a.m. INVOCATION Reverend Tom Harris, First Presbyterian Church, delivered the Invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chairman Wheeler led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. GENERAL OVERVIEW - JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Administrator Baird presented the 2007-2008 proposed Budget of $432,031,652, showing a decrease of about $68,339,954 or 13.7%. He said the most important thing to keep in mind was the recent tax reform, which designated us a "5% County" to cut our budget. He noted that July 18, 2007 1 we have complied with the State requirement, with the exception that anything that was public safety would be 3%, with which we have also complied. Mr. Baird believed this was an extremely hard year, and next year would be harder. He stated that next year there would be a super exemption on the Ballot, and if it passes, it would mean a loss in our General fund of 13.6% (in addition to the other losses), and there would also be additional cuts. Mr. Baird outlined this year's budget cuts with the elimination of 57 positions, amounting to $3.3 million in savings. He explained that some of the major impacts on the overall budget are property insurance, which is up $1.1 million; health insurance is still up $400,000.00; and the operating cost of the new County building increased the budget by about $235,000.00. He also outlined the major impacts on the budget with its increases and decreases. GENERAL FUND Administrator Baird informed the Board that the overall budget is $83,443,897.00, showing a decrease of $2,997,111.00 or 3.5% less than last year. He announced that the proposed BCC operating fund is $1,170,167.00 with a 15.6% decrease from last year; the proposed millage in the General Fund is 3.0526, last year it was 3.1914; and the General Fund has an overall reduction of the 5% in ad valorem taxes as required under the new Legislation. He read each department's budget proposal and explained the decrease or increase in said budgets. He also gave a quick overview of the General Fund Budget, noting that eleven (11) positions in the General Fund were eliminated. Administrator Baird and Budget Director Jason Brown responded to questions from Board members regarding increases, funding for soil and water conservation, and the Water Control Districts. July 18, 2007 2 David Gunner, Superintendent of the Water Control District, and Chairman of Soil & Water Conservation District, explained the differences in the Soil and Water Conservation and Water Control District issues. He stated that over the past five years they acquired $1.5 million in grant funds for cost share to the cooperators, and that money is invested then goes back into the environment to help improve the discharge from agricultural lands. He thanked the Commissioners and Administrator Baird for funding proposed for his department. Administrator Baird continued his presentation outlining proposed budgets and reductions or increases as follow: County Administration - 2.98% reduction General Services - 8% reduction Human Resources - 10% reduction Veteran Services - 4% reduction Emergency Management - 11.13% reduction Parks - 6.59% reduction (an Asst. Superintendent was eliminated) Human Services - 6.4% reduction AG Extension - 10.1% reduction Youth Guidance - 25.7% reduction Purchasing - 2.4% increase Facilities Management - 1% reduction Budget and Management - 1% reduction FPL Grant Expenditures - 1.6% increase, which is funded from the grant itself Computer Services - 6.5% reduction Animal Control - 4.72% reduction (overtime cut and cap on travel) Mail/Switch Board - 6.1% reduction Citrus Grants - showed a $121,000.00 decrease Commissioner O'Bryan questioned the County Attorney department's budget cut and the reduction of outside legal services. He asked how it would affect us if there were litigation. Attorney Collins confirmed that they cut outside legal services by 80%, and they would have to July 18, 2007 3 use in-house attorneys, or appropriate funds from contingency or charge it to whatever department is requiring the services or causing the litigation to come about. Frank Coffey, 1200 Admirals Walk, questioned staffing for the Board of County Commissioners, asking where the Aides would come from, whether they were in-house and reassigned, who would be responsible for the Aides; who would they report to, who would evaluate them, and what were they expected to do. He was concerned with salary, and saw that Commissioners were getting a big raise. Chairman Wheeler explained the approved office organization, and stated that the Aides would be County employees with the same rights and privileges, and were not at -will. Mr. Coffey asked about the recent Cody salary study and whether it would be made available to the public. Administrator Baird said they were working on it, and believed they would not have funds to implement it when it is ready. Mr. Coffey inferred that when there are reductions in the overall budget it is the people at the bottom that are dropped off, and there was less effect on the people at the upper level. Administrator Baird countered that they have eliminated senior positions as well. Mr. Coffey then addressed the 7% salary increase he believed Administrator Baird and Attorney Collins received. Both Attorney Collins and Administrator Baird assured Mr. Coffey that they each received a 3% raise, and thought he might have calculated the COLA increase in his summation. Chairman Wheeler and other Board members thanked Mr. Coffey for his consistent interest in County matters and for taking the time to attend meetings. Andrew Malloy, 2565 Riverview Court, representing Youth Guidance, asked that an exception in budget cuts be made for Youth Guidance. They are currently staffed with three (3) people and serve a population of 800 children. He said because this is a mentoring and preventative program, the elimination of one (1) position, a 33% cut, would greatly affect them. July 18, 2007 4 He asked the Board to closely review the memorandum dated July 17, 2007, which was given to them today. Barbara Schutt, Youth Guidance, informed Chairman Wheeler, in response to his inquiry, that her County budget was about $170,000.00 and of that they apply to United Way for a grant of $46,700.00. She said they raise about $125,000.00 a year through fundraising efforts and spend more than that every year. Chairman Wheeler said he would support the reinstatement of the funds at full value because of the outstanding job Youth Guidance does with the kids. He believed they have been under -funded for 25 years, and although he agreed with the cuts Administrator Baird had made, he was in support of the Youth Guidance's program. MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Bowden, SECONDED by Commissioner Flescher, to put the $32,616.00 back in the Youth Guidance budget. Administror Baird explained the County's funding of Youth Guidance, noting that the School Board usually funded them. The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION and the Motion carried unanimously reinstating the $32,616.00 back in the Youth Guidance budget. MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.TU) Administrator Baird presented the MSTU proposed budget for next year as $30,014.316.00, a decrease of $1,844,560.00 or 5.8%. The millage in this budget was also decreased by 5%. The proposed millage is 1.0835; last year it was 1.1336. He briefly summarized the overall changes as follow: The Transportation budget had a 5.5% decrease July 18, 2007 5 North Aquatic Center had a 7% increase Gifford had a 25% reduction Recreation had a 12% reduction Ocean Rescue (Lifeguards) had a 6.1% increase (they added a new fulltime lifeguard and eliminated one temporary position) Planning & Development had a 3.5% reduction County Planning had a 2% reduction Code Enforcement had a 1.65% reduction Parks had a 7.4% reduction Zero funding for Road & Bridge (that was a line item for demolition) Telecommunications had a 7% reduction Tax Collector had a 4.91% reduction Chairman Wheeler questioned the $44,077.00 increase for the North County Aquatic Center. Director Brown explained the increase, and responded to other questions from Chairman Wheeler. Administrator Baird, at the request of Commissioner Flescher, explained how well the Gun Range was doing as far as their income. Chairman Wheeler said the Range has been 25 years in the making, and Commissioner Flescher remarked that it is the best in the nation and we should not give it up for any cost. Frank Coffey shared his views on the Gun Range, arguing that for the last seven (7) years he has been complaining about the taxpayers' dollars going into the shooting range. He was pleased that this year's budget was reduced. He felt there should be no money going from ad valorem taxes to the shooting range, and people who use it should fund it. He hoped an effort would be made to not put any more money into the Range from ad valorem taxes. Board members discussed how the Range could be funded, and Commissioner Davis addressed Mr. Coffey's question about funding from the State for the shooting range. July 18, 2007 6 Mr. Coffey objected to the funds being called "Enterprise Fund" if the money was being taken from ad valorem to fund this. Administrator Baird said they could look into moving it into the General Fund or MSTU. He agreed that they would eventually have to move it out. Commissioner Davis asked if there was a law against putting it in Recreation. Commissioner Flescher asked if it would reduce the likelihood of us looking towards the State for the future of the Range. Discussions ensued among Commissioners and Budget staff regarding user fees for the Range. Administrator Baird agreed with Mr. Coffey and said if he could not get the Range permitted, he would stick it in the General Fund as a form of recreation. Chairman Wheeler wanted to see the Range pay for itself and thought it could. Joe McManus, 13450 77th Street, Fellsmere, Ocean Lifeguard, saw Ocean Rescue as a true operation that saves lives, and comports with the intent and spirit of the Emergency Services District Ordinance, which portion he read. He could not understand the reluctance to consider Ocean Rescue as a bona fide rescue service or a vital public safety function. Mr. McManus explained to Chairman Wheeler the difference in the ability to rescue under one label over the other (Lifeguard vs. Fire Department), in response to his question. Administrator Baird reminded Mr. McManus that these were budget discussions and that this forum was not the appropriate place to discuss his other concerns. Board members agreed that Mr. McManus' concerns was looking at changing a structure and not related to the Budget. It was suggested his concerns be place on the regular BCC Agenda. TRANSPORTATION FUND Administrator Baird announced that this is not a taxing budget; it is generated from the General Fund and MSTU (about 65%) from which it gets most of its income. The Transportation proposed budget is $17,381,183.00, a decrease of 5.5%. He announced that they have had major staffing reductions; Privatization met a reduction of $699,996.00, and COLA increased it by $266,744.00; Property Insurance increase in cost is $118,229.00, Fuel cost was up July 18, 2007 7 $60,917.00; and Health Insurance increased $43, 440.00. Several positions were eliminated: three (3) full-time and two (2) part-time in Road and Bridge; Public Works eliminated one (1) full-time position; Engineering eliminated two (2) full-time positions; and three (3) full-time Traffic and Land Acquisition Agents in Transportation were also eliminated. Chairman Wheeler asked how this Engineering cut would affect us, and whether it would hamper what we were doing with bridges and new roads, as well as other transportation matters. Administrator Baird thought we still have more engineers than we had in the past. Administrator Baird said staff was still looking at more manpower and outside contracting. He did not believe this would slow the process down. He offered to put the positions back in if the Board desired. Commissioner Davis asked if these cuts would slow down projects like the Phase 4 CR 512, and in getting permits out. Administrator Baird informed him that the majority of the design was done by outside engineers and would not affect like projects. Administrator Baird continued his presentation, announcing that the Road and Bridge department showed a 6.2% reduction, Public Works had a 14.75% reduction, Engineering had a 9.9% reduction, Traffic Engineering had a 10.5% reduction, Real Estate Acquisition's proposed budget is $138,267.00, and Stormwater had a 7.8% reduction. The Chairman called a break at 10:37 a.m. and reconvened the Workshop at 10:54 a.m., with Commissioner Davis absent. EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT - FIRE RESCUE Administrator Baird said this District, under State Legislation, only has to have a 3% cut, with which we have complied. The proposed budget is $32,168,398.00, a decrease of 8.5%, and the majority of this decrease is due to the building of fire stations. July 18, 2007 8 (Clerk's Note: Commissioner Davis rejoined the meeting at 10:56 a.m.) Administrator Baird announced that the Health Insurance increase is $53,040.00; and Property Insurance increase is $87,624.00. The proposed millage for next year is 1.7201, and current year millage is 1.7639, so there is a reduction. He pointed out that our fund balance is dropping considerably in this Fund, and it is due not to mismanagement, but to having to rebuild all the fire stations. He said although it is a tremendous strain, they are not recurring costs but one- time costs. He explained to Commissioner Davis how much of that cost would be reimbursed in FEMA dollars. Frank Coffey noticed, in Fire Rescue, a salary increase of 6.62%, a benefit increase of 1.93%, and then an operating cost increase of 9.56%. He asked if the increase was due to combining the services or additional employees. Director Brown and Administrator Baird explained the increases. Joe Remini, Vice President of Vero Beach Firefighters, addressed the issues of fire safety and supervision in their ranks, as well as education and relocation. He explained that currently the District has one mobile Battalion Chief on duty, who is tasked with manning and supervising over 11 stations with over 65 personnel per day, Countywide. He was also concerned about call coverage in the North and South County. On behalf of the Firefighters, he recommended that another Supervisor/Battalion Chief be added to assist in accounting responsibilities. He compared staffing at various stations in the County, and expressed a desire to see the trailer that is still operating in Gifford removed and placed at Station 3 to cover engine and ambulance units. He also wanted to see more help in education from the District. Chairman Wheeler asked what the increase in personnel would be to bring the manpower up from four (4) to five (5) at each station mentioned. He also inquired how many people currently man the station in Gifford. July 18, 2007 9 Director King explained that there were two (2) people per shift for a total of six (6) assigned for the three shifts. There are three (3) Battalion Chiefs and only one (1) on duty per shift for the entire county. He also explained that if the Battalion Chiefs were unavailable, he would use a Captain who works out of rank. Administrator Baird, who was approached by upset residents of the Gifford community and asked not to move Station 3, decided not to move it until they built the one on 49th Street. Chairman Wheeler wanted to see a report justifying the trailer being in Gifford or at Station 3. He thought this issue should be advertised and brought back to the Board. Michael Weiss asked about station repairs, and argued that the County seemed remiss because it does not apply technology such as solar lighting/heating or air condition systems. He felt it was a disgrace that it would cost taxpayers $25,000.00 per month for utilities for the new administration buildings, when there is enough roof space for solar collectors that could be used for lighting the parking lots, and to save money. He pointed out that these things should be taken into consideration for future savings and less dependence on taxpayers. Commissioner O'Bryan asked Mr. Weiss to bring the matter back to the Board next Tuesday, July 24, 2007, under his item (Commissioner O'Bryan's matters). AGGREGATE MILLAGE Budget Director Jason Brown said the proposed aggregate millage is 5.1726 compared to a current rate of 5.3622, a 4% decrease from current, and 4.4% below the rollback rate. July 18, 2007 10 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND Administrator Baird announced that the total budget is $2,417,206.00, $6,000.00 less than last year, and this is to make the debt service payment on the General Obligation Bonds. The first Land Acquisition Bond is the $26 million bond issue; the second one is the $50 million bond for environmentally sensitive lands, and the budget for that is $4,769,192.00, up $171,521.00 to make the debt service. For the $26 million bond, the millage is .1357 — last year it was .1406. The $50 million bond proposed millage is .2725 and last year it was .2702. Commissioner O'Bryan asked why the debt service went up to $170,000.00 on the $50 million bond. Director Brown said the current year was the first year for that bond issue; it was issued partway through the first year, so the first year had a lower interest payment, because they only had to pay 10 instead of 12 months interest. Director Brown recognized Public Defender Diamond Litty from the 19th District, and asked if she could address the Board this morning instead of this afternoon because of a prior engagement. Ms. Litty thanked the Board for all it does for them and for the recommended budget they have been given. Administrator Baird said Ms. Litty's budget has an $8,000.00 reduction. STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS Administrator Baird read into the record all the per parcel acre charges for street lighting, none of which was an increase, but some were a decrease over last year's costs. West Wabasso is in its first year, so they did not have a District street lighting charge for last year. Administrator Baird responded to questions from Commissioner Davis as to how Vero Lakes Estates pays for its streetlights; and what was the definition of a parcel acre. July 18, 2007 11 OTHER M.S.B.U. Administrator Baird advised that for other Municipal Service Benefit Units they have the East Gifford stormwater @ $15.00 per parcel acre charge, and the budget is $1,995.00. For Vero Lake Estates MSBU they are proposing a $19.00 per parcel charge (same as last year), and the budget is $311,108.00, $141,000.00 less than last year. INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS Administrator Baird announced that Fleet Management's proposed budget (done on a General Accounting Principles [GAP] basis, called an ISF but is really an Enterprise Fund) is $3,994,690.00, with a $245,905.00 increase that is mainly fuel. The Self Insurance Funds proposed budget is $7,141,311.00, showing an increase of $817,742.00; Health Insurance proposed budget is $14,391,190.00 showing an increase of $782,500.00; Geographic Information Systems proposed budget $1,366,693.00, showing a decrease of $28,061.00. Administrator Baird informed the Board that the budget presentation was running ahead of schedule and suggested, if the Board desired, they review some of the Miscellaneous Budgets that were scheduled for tomorrow. Commissioners had no objection. There was CONSENSUS among Board Members to hear the Miscellaneous Budgets, originally scheduled for tomorrow's Budget Hearing. MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS Administrator Baird announced the following proposed budgets and briefly commented and responded to questions on each, as necessary: Road Improvement Fees showed a decrease of $2,379,702.00 New Traffic Impact Fee Fund showed an increase of $7,280,158.00 Additional Impact Fees $4.9 million, $3.7 million less than last year July 18, 2007 12 Court Facility Fund is $35,000.00, a decrease from last year Housing Authority is $59,621.00, a decrease from last year Rental Assistance budget had a $453,023.00 reduction Secondary Road Construction Fund is $4,542,389.00, an increase over last year (local gas tax money) Special Law Enforcement Fund is zero Parks Development Fund is $25,000.00, same as last year Tree Ordinance Fine Fund $27,338.00, a decrease from last year Tourist Development is $8,925.00, a decrease from last year 911 Surcharge is $461,529.00, a decrease from last year Drug Abuse Trust Fund is $18,217.00, an increase over last year SHIP Program is $13,739.00, an increase over last year MPO is $141,402.00, a decrease from last year Native Uplands Acquisition Trust Fund is $55,000.00, same as last year Beach Restoration is $8.5 million, a decrease from than last year Community Development Block Grant is zero until we get acknowledgement of our Grant Florida Boating Improvement budget is $415,000.00, same as last year Disabled Access Program is $20,000.00, same as last year Intergovernmental Grants is $407,514.00, a decrease from than last year Traffic Education Program $47,592.00, a decrease from last year CDBG is $2.7 million, a decrease from last year Court Facility Surcharge is $23,712.00, a decrease from last year Additional Court Cost Fund is up $24,577.00 Court Technology Fund is down $53,433.00 Land Acquisition Series 2006 Bond (for the $50M Bond issue) anticipate spending $17,938,350.00, down $7.3 million from last year Dodger Bonds — this is just a debt service on the bonds; the State gives half (%) a million every year towards it and the local level is only paying $421,000.00 of the $1.2 million. July 18, 2007 13 Administrator Baird said negotiations were underway with another major league team, but he was not allowed to disclose who it is. He hoped to come to an agreement very quickly. He then continued his presentation announcing that the Dodgers budget is for $1,244,063.00; the Shooting Range Construction is zero; Optional one -cent sales tax is down $42,162,926.00; the proposed revenue for Optional Sales Tax is down considerably ($1,759,000.00); and Gifford Road Improvement is zero. Administrator Baird suggested the Board take care of the Enterprise Fund budget, which would eliminate Thursday's Budget Workshop. The Board consented. Board Members CONSENTED to have Administrator Baird present the Enterprise Fund budget, thus eliminating the need to have the originally scheduled Budget Workshop, tomorrow, Thursday, July 19, 2007. Frank Coffey, on the issue of additional impact fees, was curious as to where it stood, and asked whether the current fees would be retained or increased. Administrator Baird informed him that they had not factored in any increase in impact fees, but presently the Chamber of Commerce has set up a taskforce to review the impact fees and they will bring back information to the Board. ENTERPRISE FUNDS SHOOTING RANGE Administrator Baird said the Shooting Range proposed budget is $417,231.00 and has been reduced $23,009.00. CLUBHOUSE (GOLF COURSE) Administrator Baird said the Golf Course was not proposing any rate increases anywhere, and the recommended Budget is $3,287,536.00, down $165,156.00. They eliminated positions July 18, 2007 14 in food and beverage because they lost about $40,000.00 a year, so now they outsource it, which will result in a $40,000.00 profit. BUILDING DEPARTMENT Administrator Baird announced that the Building Department's proposed budget is $3,378,239.00, a reduction of $1,287,965.00. They eliminated 16 positions with more to come. UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services, reduced by 10 positions, had a proposed budget of $39,745,351.00, an increase of $2,603,621.00. Administrator Baird briefly described the positions to be eliminated or filled. He thought they would have to institute a study to show they are spending that much money on maintenance. UTILITY IMPACT FEES Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget is $4,646,788.00, showing a reduction of $1,504,462.00. Vice Chair Bowden remarked that Administrator Baird and his team had done a good job. The Chairman announced that he would adjourn the Workshop for lunch at 11:52 a.m., and return at 1:30 p.m. The Chairman reconvened the Workshop at 1:30 p.m. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.) Administrator Baird announced the proposed budget at $11,795,955.00, showing a decrease of 3.6%. He said they were also proposing a reduction in the waste generation unit in commercial from $31.41 to $29.86. He said residential waste generation unit (1 unit = 1 ton of garbage), was going from $46.50 to $44.04, a $2.46 decrease. Equivalent Residential unit will go from $74.40 to $70.46, a $3.94 reduction, roughly reducing rates by 5%. Administrator Baird said two (2) full time positions were eliminated to help reduce cost. July 18, 2007 15 The Chairman opened the public hearing. Seeing no one, the Chairman closed the public hearing. ON MOTION by Vice Chair Bowden, SECONDED by Commissioner Davis, the Board unanimously closed the public hearing. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS CLERK OF COURT — JEFFREY K. BARTON Clerk of Circuit Court, Jeffrey K. Barton announced that he had reduced his budget from last year, per the request of the Board. Administrator Baird announced that the Clerk's budget was $1,161,306.00, with a $60,701.00 or 5% decrease. TAX COLLECTOR— CHARLES W. SEMBLER Administrator Baird explained that the Tax Collector's budget is estimated at the same as last year ($1,205.064), which he reduced by 5% and eliminated two (2) positions. PROPERTY APPRAISER —DAVID C. NOLTE Administrator Baird said this budget was $2,805,918.00, reduced $378,211.00 almost 12%, and five positions were eliminated. July 18, 2007 16 CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS (CONTINUED) SHERIFF — ROY RAYMOND Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget is $42,771,040.00, up $643,241.00 or 1.53%. He remarked that the Sheriff has had a hard year because of the new jail being put in. He felt this was reasonable based on the new jail opening and other expenses. Frank Coffey informed the Board that he was invited to sit in and listen while the Sheriff and staff prepared the budget. He presented an overview of the said proceedings, and compared increases and decreases and other major differences in the Sheriffs last year's budget and the current. Mr. Coffey inquired about money set aside for "attrition"; salary increases among employees, overtime hours worked, equipment and vehicle purchases, and Worker's Compensation. Administrator Baird addressed Mr. Coffey's concerns regarding Worker's Compensation and "attrition". He informed Mr. Coffey that the Sheriff was asked to do whatever he could to get the budget down, and that was part of the negotiations. Sheriff Raymond also addressed Mr. Coffey's comments regarding attrition, among other issues. Commissioner O'Bryan sought clarification on the movement of attrition funds, and whether it would be used for capital purchases this year. Sheriff Raymond explained. Joe Steiner observed that the Sheriff s budget is one of very few that has had an increase. He felt the Sheriff should try to make do and reduce his budget. He believed it behooves the Board to look at these budgets and make sure they are cut or come within the bounds that everyone else is cutting. July 18, 2007 17 Sheriff Raymond said he did not have any new employees this year, and explained how he had cut this year's budget by $1,556,000.00. He remarked that his Department is already understaffed than recommended for public safety, according to national statistics. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS — KAY CLEM Administrator Baird said this budget has a 5% reduction; the proposed budget is $1,316,309.00, and this does not include the new voting machines. Supervisor of Elections Kay Clem confirmed that the State would pay for the machines; the systems are based on the 2002 National Institute of Technology specifications; and they are looking at buying a system now and another in five (5) years. She briefly described the new voting system that has to be in place by September 2008. Mrs. Clem responded to questions from the Board. NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES Administrator Baird presented the recommended budgets for the following entities and explained the reasons for the reductions: New Horizons recommended $400,000.00, a reduction of 13.4% from last year State Health Dept. recommended $803,169.00, a reduction of 7% less than last year State Forest Service - this is an increase required under State law, and it is $6,101.00 Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council did not decrease their budget even though it is a requirement, but showed a 4% increase or $2,244.00 Department of Juvenile Justice is also an increase which is State mandated - $16,466 or 3.53% above last year Environmental Control Board was kept the same at $20,820.00 Court Administration expenses is $100,000.00 and $90,500.00 or 47.51% below last year July 18, 2007 18 Circuit Court Judges $14,369.00, or $8,237.00 less than last year Guardian Ad Litem $12,000.00 or 5% less than last year Victim Assistance program - recommending $70,261.00 or 5% less than last year State Attorney - recommending $44,108.00, or 33% less than last year Public Defender's budget was reduced 47.34% Medical Examiner - recommending $319,289.00 or 5.65% less than last year John Romano, CEO of New Horizons, informed the Board that his organization serve a lot of people, and the funding they receive each year from the State have been flat for about 12 years. He begged the Board not to cut their budget, as it would greatly impact their clients. Commissioner O'Bryan asked Administrator Baird if the money being moved to the Mental Health Association could pick up some of the services and make them more available to local residents. The Board discussed the budget cuts and funding options. Tom Genung, Trial Court Administrator, on behalf of the Clerk and Court staff, thanked the Board for its support of the Court system. NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Administrator Baird said every year we receive more requests from non-profit organizations than we can afford. A few years ago the County set a policy to fund these organizations for four years only, and due to the limitations this year, he has had to be a little more drastic than normal. He then presented the recommended amounts for the following entities: Alzheimer/Parkinson Association - recommended $20,000.00, a 60% reduction Catholic Charities - recommended $10,000.00, a 50% reduction Nutrition for Life - recommended zero Broken To Mended Program - recommended zero Indian River Cares - recommended zero Indian River County Mental Health Collaborative - recommend $67,500, a 10% reduction July 18, 2007 19 Food Bank - recommend zero World Changers - recommend $20,000, same as last year Veterans Services - recommend $69,450.00, same as last year Commissioner O'Bryan questioned whether three of the zero recommendations were new requests, because they were not funded last year. Administrator Baird said, "Yes", and admitted that we funded the Treasure Coast Food Bank last year, but this year he recommended zero because of budget constraints. Larry Wapnick, President of the Veterans Council, spoke in defense of the Alzheimer/ Parkinson budget being reinstated. Caroline Bingham, Alzheimer/Parkinson Association, thanked the Board for the $20,000.00, appreciated Mr. Wapnick's comments, but said he was not speaking on behalf of the organization. She announced that November is Alzheimer Awareness Month and there would be Fund Raising events as follow: 1st November - Tennis 10th November - A Walk at Riverside Park 30th November Gala at the Museum of Art "Casablanca" Mr. Wapnick presented his second request to the Board to have the Veterans Council budget reinstated. He asked the Board to approve additional funds for a new Executive Director position. Dan Stanley, Grand Harbor, Vice President of Veterans Council, did not support Mr. Wapnick's request for an Executive Director. He stated that the Council did not approve the need for such a Director. Diane George, Delegate of the Veterans Council, supported Mr. Wapnick's request for an Executive Director. She did not believe volunteers were physically capable of keeping the Council going. July 18, 2007 20 Eric Rip Wieler, 420 Coconut Palm Road, Indian River Shores, member of Veterans Council, said Mr. Wapnick was speaking on his own behalf, because they had not discussed or voted on this matter at their meeting. He was opposed to the request and felt volunteers could handle the issues. The Chairman called a recess at 3:00 p.m. and reconvened the Workshop at 3:15 p.m. Michael Weiss, Secretary of Veterans Council, thought the Veterans were doing something that is not in their best interest, by airing dirty laundry in public. He believed it would be best if the Council took the matter under consideration until after the election of a new Board in September. Chairman Wheeler agreed and suggested they straighten out the matter within their organization, as this was not the place to debate whether they want a new position. He sought legal advice from the County Attorney. Attorney Collins explained that the purpose of the Workshop was to adopt a budget and not look at organization structure. Chairman Wheeler recommended that the members of the Veterans Council get together, agree on the issues, and then bring the matter to the Board. Commissioner Davis did not like to see the dissention in an organization that he holds in high esteem. Commissioners O'Bryan and Bowden concurred with Commissioners Davis and Wheeler. Ardra Rigby, Treasurer of the Veterans Council, agreed that the issues should be handled behind closed -door. He said the Executive Board had voted 3-1 to let Mr. Wapnick have this position, and hearing that there is no continuity or a divide was news to him. Joe Martorana, 5151 North AlA, said it was the Executive Board that voted on this and the entire 22 -member organizations were told about this at a surprise meeting. He acknowledged that Mr. Wapnick has done a tremendous job, like previous presidents of the Council, but he could not support the request for the new position. July 18, 2007 21 An unidentified speaker expressed opposition to the request. Chairman Wheeler again reminded everyone that this was a budget hearing and not the place to dispute the Council's needs. He declared that the County Administrator's recommendations stand. Miranda Swanson, Interim Director of the Health Department, expressed appreciation for their recommended budget. Commissioner O'Bryan acknowledged the tremendous job the Health Department is doing. QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Administrator Baird announced the recommended budgets for the following entities: Community Transport Coordinator - recommended $448,729.00 or 7% less than last year Cultural Council of Indian River County - recommended $40,000.00.00, a $17,999.00 decrease - (Administrator Baird meant to decrease to 7% but did not; the new number is $53,939.00, an increase of $13,939 from current recommendation.) Economic Development Division - recommend $156,410.00, that is $12,018.00 or 7% less than last year Gifford Youth Activity Center - recommended $140,409.00, a $3,558.00 or 2.6% increase (this is tied to a contract we have) Progressive Civic League - recommended $19,000.00, a reduction of $1,000.00 or 5% less than last year Humane Society - recommended $395,547.00, the same as last year Treasure Coast Homeless Service Council - recommended $23,813.00, same as last year The Quasi -Non Profits overall budget is $1,223,908.00, a reduction of $61,234.00 or 4.76%. July 18, 2007 22 Commissioner Davis acknowledged that these organizations do a phenomenal job, and agreed with Administrator Baird that if they went out of business, the County would be required to offer those services. Commissioner O'Bryan agreed. Guy Barber, 2015 Island Drive SW, wanted to know what budget cuts the Commissioners' Office had made, in comparison to the $20,000.00 cut from the Food Kitchen's budget. He was opposed to the budget cuts to certain agencies, especially to programs designed for the disabled, low income, the infirm, and veterans. Administrator Baird informed Mr. Barber that the County had cut its own budgets 6%. Mr. Barber believed the only ones taking the hit were the people who needed the services the most. He again expressed adamant opposition to the budget cut for the Food Kitchen. Administrator Baird invited him to come again with his grouses, in September, to the final budget hearing. Godfrey Gibson, Gifford Progressive Civic League, although he did not like the cut, thanked the Board for its cooperation, and hoped the League's budget would be restored next year to full capacity. Freddie Woolfork, Gifford Youth Activity Center, 4590 57th Avenue, thanked the Board on behalf of Gifford Youth Activity Center for their consideration. He invited everyone to the Center for a tour. An unidentified speaker, on behalf of the Gifford Board, thanked the Commission and staff for all they do to support the Center. July 18, 2007 23 CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM Administrator Baird said this was license plate money that goes to Care Net; and the recommended budget is $17,000.00, same as last year. DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT Administrator Baird stated that this was money that goes to the Indian River School District and St. Edwards, and is based on the revenue. CHILDREN'S SERVICES Administrator Baird said Child Services has come within the $1.1 million range because the Committee has requested $1,099,854.00, a 10.14% reduction from last year. SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA Administrator Baird said this went down this year, and we are paying Sebastian $283,546.00, down $32,157.00, and that is based on property values. FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA Administrator Baird said Fellsmere CRA is $45,877.00, up $11, 467.00 or 33% from last year. July 18, 2007 24 ANNOUNCEMENTS PUBLIC HEARINGS ON TENTATIVE AND FINAL BUDGET AND MILLAGE RATES Administrator Baird announced that the Tentative Budget hearing will be on September 5, 2007, at 5:01 p.m., and the Final Budget hearing will be on September 12, 2007, at 5:01 p.m. in the Commission Chambers. Vice Chair Bowden recommended that the $10,000.00 cut from the Alzheimer/ Parkinson budget, and the $20,000.00 cut from the New Horizons (Mental Health) budget, be reinstated and the amounts be taken from the reserves. Administrator Baird summarized the entities with budget cuts that were being reinstated: $32,616.00 to be reinstated to Youth Guidance; $13,939.00 to be added to Cultural Council (this resulted from an error); $10,000.00 to be reinstated to the Alzheimer/Parkinson's budget; and $20,000.00 to be reinstated to the New Horizons (Mental Health) budget, for a combined total of $76,555.00 to be returned to the respective budgets. Administrator Baird contemplated ways to add the funds back during the year, and thought he could have a hiring freeze or increase revenues. ON MOTION by Vice Chair Bowden, SECONDED by Commissioner Flescher, the Board unanimously approved that $32,616.00 be reinstated to the Youth Guidance's budget; $13,939.00 be added to the Cultural Council's budget; $10,000.00 be reinstated to the Alzheimer/Parkinson's budget; and $20,000.00 be reinstated to the New Horizons (Mental Health) budget. July 18, 2007 25 Administrator Baird thanked his staff and the Budget Department's staff for the work they have done. Chairman Wheeler remarked that this was one of the most cutting budgets he has seen in the history of this County. He recognized Jim Granse, Joe Steiner, Frank Coffey and Bob Johnson, for being watchdogs and advocates for the taxpayers, because they attend every budget workshop and public hearing. He appreciated all the efforts they put in. Commissioner O'Bryan concurred. Frank Coffey thanked the Budget department and management, especially Director Jason Brown, and all who worked hard at their jobs, and for providing him with information. job. Director Brown thanked his staff, and Ruth Bommarito and Tony Hood, for doing a great 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 3:54 p.m. ATTEST: Jeffrey K. Barton, Clerk Gary C. Wheeler, Chairman Minutes Approved: AA July 18, 2007 26