HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/23/2009 (4)JEFFREY K. BARTON
Clerk to the Board
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INDEX TO MINUTES OF BUDGET WORKSHOP
OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF JULY 23, 2009
CALLTO ORDER...........................................................................................................1
INVOCATION..................................................................................................................1
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE........................................................................................1
GENERAL OVERVIEW SESSION - JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY
ADMINISTRATOR......................................................................................................... 2
GENERALFUND............................................................................................................ 3
MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.T.U.)................................................ 4
TRANSPORTATION FUND......................................................................................... 8
EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT - FIRE RESCUE ....................................... 8
AGGREGATE MILLAGE-STATE PROPOSED AGGREGATE MILLAGE... 12
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND -LAND
ACQUISITION BONDS - 2004 REFERENDUM....................................................12
STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS..............................................................................13
OTHERM.S.B.U............................................................................................................13
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS...................................................................................13
ENTERPRISE FUNDS..................................................................................................14
MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS........................................................................................14
CAPITALPROJECTS..................................................................................................15
PUBLIC HEARING -SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.) ......... 15
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS...............................................................................16
NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES........................................................ 23
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................23
CHILDREN'S SERVICES........................................................................................... 24
SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA ................................... 24
FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA ................................. 24
2
CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM ..................................................... 24
QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS............................................................. 24
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS............................................................................ 24
DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT .................................. 24
ADJOURNMENT.......................................................................................................... 26
JEFFREY K. BARTON
Clerk to the Board
July 23, 2009
BUDGET WORKSHOP OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met at the County
Commission Chambers, 1801 27th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Thursday, July 23, 2009 to
conduct a Budget Workshop. Present were Chairman Wesley S. Davis, Vice Chairman Joseph
E. Flescher, and Commissioners Gary C. Wheeler, Peter D. O'Bryan, and Bob Solari. Also
present were County Administrator Joseph A. Baird, Management and Budget Director Jason E.
Brown, County Attorney William G. Collins II, and Deputy Clerk Maureen Gelfo.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Wesley S. Davis called the Workshop to order at 9:00 a.m.
INVOCATION
Public Works Director Jim Davis delivered the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chairman Davis led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
July 23, 2009 1
GENERAL OVERVIEW SESSION — JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Administrator Baird used a PowerPoint Presentation to support his budget message. He
presented the 2009/2010 proposed Budget of $301,601,307, which is a decrease of $84,513,107
or 21.89% less than last year. He stated that the proposed budget was a difficult one; however,
the Board's goal of reducing the ad valorem taxes was accomplished, with total ad valorem
collections of about $88,048,650, a decrease of $9.9 million or 10.1% less than last year.
Administrator Baird reiterated that the budget has been challenging, and said that some
very difficult decisions had to be made. He outlined the major budget impacts, including a tax
roll decline in the General Fund of around 9%; an 11.4% reduction in the MSTU (Municipal
Services Taxing Unit); a 10.0% decline in the Emergency Services District; a $2.3 million (or
over 10%) decline in sales tax and other revenues; building permit and impact fee revenue
reductions of 40% each; and interest earning reductions of about 3.7 million or 42%.
Administrator Baird advised that there would be no raises for the County employees, except for
the IAFF (International Association of Firefighters) Local 2201, and that 39 full-time positions
had been eliminated.
Administrator Baird reported that the proposed budget accomplishes everything that the
Board requested; however, in the General Fund, staff came close to, but was unable to reach, the
desired goal. He presented the proposed millage for the General Fund millage as 3.0892, noting
that in attempting to fulfill the Commission's budgetary goals, a $2 million reduction had been
made to the Sheriff's Budget. He reported that the Emergency Services District millage, at
1.7148, is the same as last year; the M.S.T.U. Fund is below last year's rate, at 1.0774; and
noted that a property owner of a typical house with a homestead exemption should not have a tax
increase on the portion for which the County Commission is responsible.
July 23, 2009 2
GENERAL FUND
Administrator Baird informed the Board that the overall proposed budget for the County
Commissioners was $17,001,988, a $2,379,595 or 12.3% decrease. He thereafter outlined the
proposed budgets and reductions for the Board of County Commissioners, including all
department budgets under the Board of County Commissioners, as found on page 31 of the
backup.
Responding to Commissioner Solari's inquiry, Attorney Collins said that he preferred to
accomplish the 14.0% reduction in his budget through employee furloughs, wherein each
employee would be required to take one furlough day without pay every two weeks.
Commissioner Solari outlined his reasons for preferring to reduce the Legal staff by one
attorney.
The Board and staff continued to discuss whether to achieve the County Attorney's
budget cuts through employee furloughs or reduction of Legal staff by one attorney.
MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Wheeler,
SECONDED by Commissioner O'Bryan, for discussion,
to accept the County Attorney's recommendation to
achieve the Legal department's budget cuts by the use of
employee furloughs.
Commissioner O'Bryan felt that any restructuring of personnel should be left to the new
County Attorney, after Attorney Collins retires in March 2010.
The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION and by a 3-2
vote (Commissioners Davis and Solari opposed), the
July 23, 2009 3
Motion carried. The Board approved the County
Attorney's recommendation to achieve the Legal
department's budget cuts by the use of employee
furloughs.
Pursuant to the request of Dee Hollenbeek, 7856 102 Ave, Vero Lake Estates, Budget
Director Jason Brown provided an explanation on the Emergency Base Grant, which is funded
under the Board of County Commissioners.
MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.T.U.)
Administrator Baird summarized the proposed budgets and reductions for all department
budgets under the M.S.T.U. (see page 34 of the backup). He revealed that overall County
Departments were $5,569,170, a decrease of $976,685, or 14.9%, and pointed out the majority
of the M.S.T.U. is transfers in and out, about 67%, to pay for the Sheriff and Roads and Bridges.
Commissioner O'Bryan wondered on which holidays it was proposed to save on overtime
by closing the guarded beaches, and was informed by staff that the proposal would be for four
holidays -- Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
A lengthy discussion arose as Commissioners and staff considered whether to proceed
with the holiday closings; what the County's liability would be for both guarded and unguarded
beaches; and the adequate use of appropriate warning signage.
Administrator Baird advised that the $10,000 cost of keeping the beaches guarded on the
holidays was one of the smaller items, and that if the Board desires, staff could find a way to
fund it.
MOTION WAS MADE by Vice Chairman Flescher,
SECONDED by Commissioner O'Bryan, to return to the
M.S.T.U. budget the overtime reduction of $9,476 for
July 23, 2009 4
the lifeguards to implement the cost for fully guarded
beaches at Wabasso Beach, Treasure Shores, Golden
Sands, and Round Island Beaches during the holiday
season.
It was clarified that the above Motion did not include the beach at the Tracking Station,
which staff had proposed to change to an unguarded beach in the upcoming budget.
The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION, and by a 3-2
vote (Commissioners Wheeler and Solari opposed), the
Motion carried.
Administrator Baird, responding to Chairman Davis's query on pool staff, revealed that
one of the two Certified Pool Operator (C.P.O.) positions has been eliminated in this year's
budget, with the C.P.O. from the North County Aquatics Center floating between the Gifford and
North County Aquatic Centers.
Chairman Davis remarked that the benefit packages are the most expensive part of the
Recreation budget, and wondered whether staff could be hired part-time, in order to provide
public safety at the least cost to the taxpayers.
Administrator Baird continued describing the proposed budgets for the pools, revealing
that staff is proposing to reduce the "zero entry" part of the year for the North County Aquatics
Center, such that the main pool would be in operation from April 1St to September 15th, the same
schedule proposed for the Gifford Aquatic Center, although the Olympic size pool would remain
open.
Vice Chairman Flescher wondered whether a savings could be affected by using the
additional staff who are also Certified Pool Operators, rather than the floating C.P.O. He
July 23, 2009 5
suggested extending the operating times for the Gifford Aquatic Center to have the closings from
November 16th through March 31St, as opposed to the proposed closings of September 16th
through April 1St
Chairman Davis pointed out that by adding that length of time, some of the staff would
be getting into a full-time benefitted position versus a part-time position.
Staff advised that under the Florida State Retirement system, retirement benefits must be
paid for every part-time employee working one day over six months, unless they are temporary;
therefore, they were proposing the pool season to be 5 %2 months.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the rationale behind the pool scheduling.
Gussy Lee McGriff, lifelong Gifford resident, expressed her satisfaction with the pool
and pool staff, and asked the Commission to treat all County citizens fairly and equally, through
all transactions, including the pools.
Freddie Woolfork, 4590 57th Avenue, reminded the Commission that the original intent
for the Gifford Aquatic Center was to drown -proof the County's children. He presented an
overview from John Thornton, the Chairman of the Gifford Pool Committee, containing the
following recommendations: (1) Schedule the cold weather closure from November through
March 31St, and keep the pool open from April 1St through October 31 st; (2) Use both the
positions of Certified Pool Operators and lifeguards as splits between the two pools; and (3)
Have staff work with the Gifford Pool Committee to establish the most beneficial days and hours
of operation. Mr. Woolfork also read some questions from the Gifford Pool Committee which
he provided to Director Brown for review.
July 23, 2009 6
After further discussions regarding the pool schedule, staff informed the Board that the
County could probably extend the pool usage by two weeks, keeping in mind the 6 -month
employment issue; however, this could not be accomplished within the current proposed budget.
Commissioners and staff deliberated further on ways to extend the hours of the Gifford
Aquatic Center, with the following result:
It was the Board's CONSENSUS for the County
Administrator to meet with the Gifford Pool Committee
to determine what actions should be taken relative to the
Gifford Pool, to meet the needs of the community within
the allotted budget.
(Clerk's Note: Attorney Collins exited the meeting at 10:15 a.m. and rejoined the
meeting at 10:23 a.m).
Will Jackson, 530 11th Court, noted that there was $350,000 for the shooting range in the
budget, and he felt that a lot more citizens used the beaches and pools than the shooting range.
Furthermore, he thought that the shooting range was supposed to become self-sustaining.
A brief discussion ensued as staff and Commissioners responded to Mr. Jackson's
comments.
John Reynolds, Hobart Landing, asked why the shooting range did not have increased
rates for out-of-towners, and his query was addressed by Administrator Baird and Vice Chairman
Flescher.
Dee Hollenbeck, 102 Avenue, Vero Lake Estates, questioned why no positions were cut
under Code Enforcement, whereas one position, that of her husband, is going to be cut this year
July 23, 2009 7
under the Animal Control Division. Additionally, she felt that Code Enforcement could be
stepping up enforcement to generate more revenues. Alluding to $35,000 of overtime in one
department, she suggested that the Board might find additional monies by evaluating the
infrastructure in all departments.
TRANSPORTATION FUND
Administrator Baird said that the Transportation Fund gets 68% of its revenue from the
taxing funds, and announced the Transportation Budget of $14,372,690, a decrease of
$3,101,368, or 17.7%. He said that one part-time and twelve full-time positions had been
eliminated. He outlined the overall departmental expenses and reductions, showing a total
budget of $12,719,435, a decrease of $2,891,097 or 18.5% for the departments falling under the
Transportation Fund (see page 36 of the backup).
Ted Robinson, 50 North Caserea Court, Indian River Shores, requested an accounting of
funds spent on right-of-way acquisitions and eminent domain during the last fiscal year, and
what is proposed to be spent during the next fiscal year.
Administrator Baird informed Mr. Robinson that those expenditures do not fall in the
Transportation category; it would be discussed under Capital Projects.
The Chairman called a break at 10:21 and reconvened the meeting at 10:38 a.m., with all
members present.
EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT — FIRE RESCUE
Administrator Baird announced that the budget includes the use of about one-half million
dollars in fund reserves to arrive at a proposed millage of 1.7148, the same as last year. The total
proposed budget is $26,674,675, a decrease of $4,347,577, or 14.0%. He explained the reasons
for the decrease, which included the costs for opening a new station with an ALS engine at the
new fire station in Gifford, Fire Rescue Station 12.
July 23, 2009 8
Commissioner Solari recalled that the Commission had previously discussed having the
municipalities pay their own fire hydrant maintenance costs, and inquired whether the $161,550
line item for fire hydrant and valve maintenance could be transferred to the contingency line
item. He noted that this year's EMS budget reduction had been done by substantially reducing
the Capital Budget basically to 0, and that a 0% Capital budget is not sustainable, thus next
year's reductions in the EMS Department would be harder to accomplish.
MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Solari,
SECONDED by Commissioner Wheeler, to move the
$161,550 from the "Hydrants and Valves Maintenance"
line item, to the "Reserve for Contingency" line item,
within the Fire Rescue category.
Administrator Baird confirmed that the Board could take the above action.
The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION, and the
Motion carried unanimously.
Responding to Commissioner Wheeler's query, Administrator Baird explained that there
was a decrease in the number of people in fire prevention, and there are two Emergency Services
supervisors who were going to be moved to help fill the new positions at Station 12. However, if
the Board wishes to keep the EMS Supervisors, one fire -medic could be added for an additional
$62,000.
Commissioner Wheeler discussed the importance of having the EMS Supervisors in what
are often life or death situations.
July 23, 2009 9
MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Wheeler,
SECONDED by Commissioner O'Bryan, to retain the
two (2) EMS Supervisors.
Vice Chairman Flescher remarked on the importance of supervision for the EMS
Department, voicing that the benefits of maintaining the supervisors would far outweigh the cost
savings set forth in the proposed budget.
Pursuant to Commissioner Wheeler's request, staff agreed to return in six months with an
evaluation on whether the fire inspections are being kept up satisfactorily.
The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION, and the
Motion carried unanimously.
Walter Geiger, 3944 58th Circle, representing the Budget Review Task Force for the
Taxpayers' Association of Indian River County, remarked on some of the lesser -used fire
stations, and presented the Taxpayers' Association's recommendation to convert two fire stations
to ALS fire/rescue stations in the 2009/2010 budget, for an approximate saving of $432,000 in
staffing costs per station. Mr. Geiger then addressed the Board as a private citizen to express his
disappointment that the members of IAFF Local 2201 had not agreed to give up their increases;
he hoped they would have a change of heart.
Wayne Schasane, firefighter, and President of IAFF Local 2201 (International
Association of Firefighters), used a PowerPoint presentation to outline his concerns regarding the
declining millage rate's ability to support Emergency Services, opining that if the millage
remains the same at 1.7148, reserve funds will eventually be depleted. He also presented and
elaborated on Local 220 I's position that the staffing changes presented in the proposed budget
will impact public safety and property conservation. His questions regarding the use of the
Optional Sales Tax Fund and Impact Fee funding for EMS were addressed by staff.
July 23, 2009 10
Commissioner Wheeler suggested that instead of spending the Optional Sales Tax, funds
should be garnered through the millage rate for the EMS District, so everyone, including the
municipalities, would pay their fair share for services being received.
A citizen (undisclosed name) discussed problems she and other Florida residents are
facing, as a result of these hard times. She commended the Commissioners and staff for trying to
cut the budget; however, although she respected the Sheriff and Firefighters, she felt that
everyone must share the burden.
Commissioner O'Bryan inquired and learned from staff that further negotiations had not
occurred with the IAFF subsequent to the last Board of County Commission meeting, on July 21,
2009, as the IAFF had not yet been ready to vote on whether to forgo a raise.
Responding to Commissioner O'Bryan's query, Administrator Baird acknowledged that
the Board's earlier vote to keep the EMS Supervisors would mean an additional fire -medic
would be hired for Station 12, at $62,000.
Commissioner O'Bryan supported keeping the millage rate where it is, but acknowledged
Mr. Schasane's points, and told him we would keep working on this.
Mr. Schasane announced that negotiations between the County and the IAFF would
resume next week. He requested that the meetings be filmed for public viewing and that
Administrator Baird be present.
James Sexton, Director of Human Resources, remarked that the County had a very
competent bargaining team who would negotiate with the IAFF and report back to the
appropriate staff.
July 23, 2009 11
Director King responded to Mr. Jackson's inquiry on federal stimulus money, divulging
that the Emergency Services Department has applied for a $1.9 million Federal Stimulus Grant
for a fire -rescue station.
Pursuant to Commissioner Wheeler `s request, Mark Daniels, Secretary Treasurer of the
IAFF, said he would provide all five Commissioners with a DVD of the May 7, 2009 meeting.
AGGREGATE MILLAGE-STATE PROPOSED AGGREGATE MILLAGE
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard at the conclusion of the Budget Workshop, and is placed here
for continuity).
Administrator Baird announced the following millage rates:
General Fund -- 3.0892
M.S.T.U. Fund -- 1.0774
Emergency Services Taxing District -- 1.7148
Land Acquisition Bond -- 0.0725
Land Acquisition Bonds 2004 -- 0.3154
AGGREGATE MILLAGE -- 5.1436
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND -LAND
ACQUISITION BONDS — 2004 REFERENDUM
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard following Other M.S.B. U. and is placed here for continuity).
Administrator Baird conveyed that the debt service for the Environmentally Sensitive
Land Acquisition Bonds is $2,330,010, with millage of 0.0725. Total debt service expenses are
July 23, 2009 12
budgeted at $4,793,098, with a millage of 0.3154 for the Land Acquisition Bonds — 2004
Referendum.
STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS
Administrator Baird announced that the fees for all the streetlighting districts would
remain the same as last year. Referring to pages 44-45 of the backup, he recounted the proposed
Revenues and Per Parcel/Acre charges for each of the eighteen street lighting districts.
OTHER M.S.B.U.
Administrator Baird reported that the East Gifford Stormwater M.S.B.U. proposed budget
remains the same at $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 $439,077, an increase of $1,856 with a
$19.00 per Parcel/Acre charge.
Freddie Woolfork, representing the Progressive Civic League of Gifford, asked the
Commissioners to assist the residents in obtaining a streetlight for which they have been waiting
two years. Administrator Baird assured Mr. Woolfork that he would have Assistant Public
Works Director Chris Mora set up a meeting with FPL.
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS
Administrator Baird announced the proposed budgets for the following: Fleet
Management -- $3,367,491, a $494,227 reduction from last year; Self -Insurance Fund (Risk
Management) -- $6,050,448, a $1,045,857 decrease from last year; Employee Health Insurance --
$13,889,546, a $576,858 reduction; and for the Geographic Info Systems (GIS) Department --
$760,815, a $164,495 reduction.
Administrator Baird informed the Board that the budget presentation was running ahead
of schedule and suggested the Board review the Enterprise and Miscellaneous budgets that were
scheduled for tomorrow. The Commissioners had no objection.
July 23, 2009 13
There was CONSENSUS among Board members to hear
the Enterprise Funds and Miscellaneous Funds that were
originally scheduled for the Budget Hearing of Friday,
July 24, 2009.
ENTERPRISE FUNDS
Administrator Baird outlined the proposed budgets and reductions for all department
budgets under the Enterprise Funds, as found on pages 51-54 of the backup. He reported that
the only proposed increase is for Golf Course maintenance, with an additional $1.00 in greens
fees to non-resident golfers.
Chairman Davis asked to re -address the furloughs for Legal staff approved by the Board
earlier (under the General Fund), and Budget Director Brown described the changes which had
occurred in the County Attorney's budget.
After Attorney Collins noted a discrepancy in the figures, Administrator Baird suggested
that Attorney Collins and Director Brown meet to settle on the appropriate figures.
(Clerk's Note: Later in the meeting, subsequent to Administrator Baird's presentation on
Quasi Non -Profit Organizations, Director Brown advised the Board that the matter was
resolved).
MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS
Administrator Baird announced the proposed budgets for these funds, as outlined on
pages 61-87 of the backup. He pointed out that there were increases in the following budgets:
Rental Assistance is $1,919,896, a $103,506 increase resulting from additional rental
assistance from the Federal Government
911 Surcharge is $715,177, an increase of $91,887.
July 23, 2009 14
Metro Plan Organization - is $677,847, an increase of $21,153.
Beach Restoration - is $12,062,995, an increase of $6,362,523.
Court Facility Surcharge Fund - is $133,500, an increase of $2,494.
Additional Court Costs - is $167,271, an increase of $56,997.
Dodger Bonds - is $1,242,233, an increase of $2,600.
Administrator Baird noted that the revenues in the Drug Abuse Fund are currently zero,
unless money is received from the Substance Abuse Council Grant.
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The Dodgertown Capital Reserve Fund reflected a proposed budget of $2,000,000.
The Optional One -Cent Sales Tax has a budget of $14,830,000, a $25,446,852 reduction
from last year.
The Chairman announced that the Workshop would adjourn for lunch at 12:02 p.m., and
reconvene at 1:30 p.m.
AFTERNOON SESSION
PUBLIC HEARING -SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.)
The Chairman reconvened the meeting at 1:31 p.m. with all members present.
Chairman Davis requested that Administrator Baird recap the Enterprise, Miscellaneous,
and Capital Project Funds, which were heard in the morning session.
Commissioner Wheeler requested that the Supervisor of Elections be heard prior to the
Sheriff during the budget discussions for the Constitutional Officers.
July 23, 2009 15
ON MOTION BY Commissioner Wheeler,
SECONDED by Commissioner Solari, the Board
unanimously approved to move the Supervisor of
Elections' budget prior to the Sheriff.
At 1:34 p.m., the Chairman convened the Public Hearing for the Solid Waste Disposal
District for Fiscal Year 2009/2010.
(Clerk's Note: For presentation and Board actions, please refer to the SWDD 2009/2010
Budget Workshop minutes, which are being prepared separately).
The Chairman adjourned the SWDD Public Hearing and reopened the Budget Workshop
meeting at 1:36 p.m.
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT - .JEFFREYK. BARTON
Administrator Baird announced that the Clerk's budget was $1,025,850, a $100,846 or
9% reduction from last year. He thanked the Clerk for cooperating in this year's budget
reductions.
Chief Deputy Clerk of Court Jeffrey Smith reiterated that the Clerk's Office desired to
cooperate with the County, and introduced Diane Bernardo, the Clerk's Finance Director, who
was instrumental in working with the budget.
Commissioner O'Bryan acknowledged that the Clerk had faced difficult choices due to
both County and State budget cuts, and he appreciated the Clerk meeting the County's budget
request.
July 23, 2009 16
Chief Deputy Clerk Smith addressed Commissioner's questions regarding document
stamp revenues and foreclosures.
Acknowledging the difficult decisions faced by the Clerk, Vice Chairman Flescher
expressed appreciation to the Clerk's office and its employees who "stepped up to the plate" to
make the proposed budget work.
TAX COLLECTOR - CAROLE JEAN JORDAN
Administrator Baird explained that staff would not receive the Tax Collector's budget
until August 1, 2009; however, he provided staff's estimate of $1, 265,104 based on last year's
figures.
PROPERTYAPPRAISER-DAVID C. NOLTE
Administrator Baird reported this budget to be $2,589,883, which is a reduction of
$182,352 or 6.6% reduction from last year. He thanked the Property Appraiser who has cut his
budget three years running, the Tax Collector who was also making cuts, and all the
Constitutional Officers for their cooperation.
Property Appraiser David Nolte said that in his twenty-nine years as Property Appraiser,
two people, Clerk of Court Jeffrey Barton and County Administrator Joseph Baird, have guided
the County's finances. He declared that Indian River is one of the only governments in the
country that is financially solvent and stable, and commended Clerk Barton, Administrator
Baird, and staff on a great job.
SHERIFF-DERYL LOAR
(Clerk's Note: The Sheriff's budget was heard following the Value Adjustment Board,
and is placed here for continuity).
July 23, 2009 17
Administrator Baird announced the proposed Sheriff's budget as $42,010,093, or
$1,643,758 less than last year. He stressed that this was the last reduction made in the General
Fund, in order to reach the goal set by the Commission, and that there was no science to the
figure. He added that the Sheriff had told him that the cut would be an extreme hardship on his
organization.
Sheriff Deryl Loar presented a videotape highlighting the many roles that the Sheriff's
office and staff play within the community. He discussed the correlation between rising
unemployment and crime rates, which escalate the need for Sheriff's services and increases
costs. He advised that about 85% of his budget goes for Personnel Services, noted that there are
currently forty-one staff vacancies, and established that the Department was not asking for pay
raises. Sheriff Loar requested that the Board support his 2009/2010 budget request of $42.8
million.
Responding to a query from Commissioner Solari, Sheriff Loar clarified that his request
was for $43.8 million.
Commissioner Solari expressed his appreciation of the Sheriff's organization and
acknowledged the difficulty of making the budget cuts; however he was inclined to support
staff's proposed budget cut. Referencing an earlier speaker who had discussed her economic
difficulties, he voiced that it was the County's job at this time to consider every citizen in the
County.
Sheriff Loar felt that the budget cuts would occasion lay-offs, which would cause
troubles.
Responding to Chairman Davis's questions, Sheriff Loar provided a breakdown of the
forty-one vacancies within the Sheriff's Department, twenty of which are sworn Deputy Sheriffs
in Corrections, and discussed the costs of inmate hospitalizations and pharmaceuticals.
July 23, 2009 18
Commissioner O'Bryan appreciated the job the Sheriff was doing; however, he shared
Commissioner Solari's concerns of looking out for taxpayers in a difficult year. He suggested
that funding be provided for ten of the twenty Corrections vacancies, providing the Sheriff with
the flexibility to add more officers as needed, but not requiring the taxpayers to pay for "ghost
positions" which are not yet filled. Commissioner O'Bryan also asked the Sheriff to consider
making reductions by combining some of the administrative positions, such as purchasing and
finance, with County staff.
Sheriff Loar believed that consolidating positions would result in some serious problems,
and he explained why he could not agree with eliminating ten of the Deputy Sheriff vacancies.
Administrator Baird disclosed that the cost for the ten Corrections positions would be
about $60,000 per entry-level position.
Vice Chairman Flescher affirmed the Sheriff's belief that the inmate population could
readily increase, and preferred to provide him with the budget and the ability to adapt and change
quickly. He also wanted to see more of the 911 surtax go to the Sheriff.
Staff advised that pursuant to Florida Statutes, the 911 funds could be used only for call
takers, and not dispatchers.
Vice Chairman Flescher wanted to give the Sheriff the opportunity to take advantage of
the 911 funds, and Director Brown divulged that two more call takers would cost an estimated
$80,000 of the $113,000 in the 911 fund.
Sheriff Loar suggested utilizing the $44.8 million in reserve money, to continue the level
of services, pointing out that under staff's proposal, the Sheriff would be operating under
July 23, 2009 19
2005/2006 and 2006/2007 dollars, when the Department was being impacted by upward crime
trends in today's economy.
Commissioner Solari outlined his reasons for supporting Commissioner O'Bryan's
suggestion to fund ten of the twenty vacancies in Corrections.
MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Solari,
SECONDED by Commissioner O'Bryan: (1) to fund ten
(10) of the twenty (20) Corrections Officer vacancies,
bringing down to thirty-one (3 1) the total vacancies in
the Sheriff's Department, and (2) to fund the two call
taker positions from the 911 surtax.
Further deliberations between Commissioners and staff ensued on proposed adjustments
to the Sheriff's budget. Administrator Baird announced that Director Brown would recalculate
the Sheriff's budget based on the elimination of ten Corrections officer vacancies for $600,000,
funding of $80,000 for two call taker vacancies from the 911 surcharge funds, and $242,871 paid
by the Sheriff (for their New World System) to the County, which would increase the Sheriff's
budget by about $922,000, and that an additional $700,000 would be added from the fund
reserves.
Vice Chairman Flescher declared that although it would be great to save the $600,000
resulting from the elimination of ten Corrections Officer positions, he did not feel that this was
the right place to save that money.
Although endorsing Commissioner O'Bryan's idea to eliminate ten Corrections Officer
positions, Chairman Davis and Commissioner Wheeler assured Sheriff Loar that they would
support the additional ten positions, should that become necessary.
July 23, 2009 20
Dee Hollenbeck commented on the reduction of overtime in the Sheriff's Department,
and suggested that the Board take another look at restructuring those departments in which
similar reductions had not occurred.
Duane Weise, 8485 Seacrest Drive, Vero Beach, Florida, noted that the major costs for
the Sheriff's budget were in personnel, and offered suggestions for making budget adjustments
based on the forty-one vacancies.
Frank Coffey asked questions regarding the reduction in Command Staff within the
Sheriff's Agency, Mr. George Gross's letter to the Sheriff regarding the budget, and Capital
Equipment purchases and funding. He recommended that the Commission establish a five -
person Citizens Committee to review budgets prior to a Budget Workshop.
The Chairman called for a break at 3:26 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 3: 34 p.m.
Cyril A. Knowles, Jr., 7855 91St Avenue, was opposed to any type of tax increases. He
directed questions to the Sheriff and Commissioners regarding the Fleet Unit, various personnel
matters, and about the SWAT team competition.
Vice Chairman Flescher felt that eliminating the ten Correction Officer vacancies would
be micromanaging the Sheriff in his capacity to make the personnel decisions that are necessary
for the safety of the citizens.
Commissioner Solari said that he would rephrase his Motion to reflect the total dollar
amount, based on the above discussions, and to arrive somewhere between staff's proposed
reduction and the Sheriff's requested budget.
MOTION WAS AMENDED by Commissioner Solari,
SECONDED by Commissioner O'Bryan, to add back
July 23, 2009 21
$921,000 to the Sheriff's budget, with the modifications
discussed above, and to add an additional $700,000 to be
drawn from the General Fund.
The Chairman CALLED THE QUESTION, and by a 4-1
vote (Vice Chairman Flescher opposed), the Motion
carried. The Board approved adding back $921,000 to
the Sheriff's budget, with the modifications discussed
above, and adding an additional $700,000 to be drawn
from the General Fund.
(Clerk's Note: At this time, Administrator Baird confirmed for Chairman Davis that a Motion to
approve the Solid Waste Disposal District budget was required. See separate 2009/2010 SWDD
Proposed Budget Minutes).
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS - KAY CLEM
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard following the Property Appraiser and is placed here
for continuity).
Administrator Baird said this proposed budget is $1,032,952, a reduction of $124,423, or
10.8%. He thanked Supervisor of Elections Kay Clem for her cooperation this year.
Supervisor of Elections Clem briefly described how she was able to affect the budget
cuts, and commended her staff for their willingness to "step up to the plate".
VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD (VAB)
Administrator Baird advised that this year's budget was $94,450, an increase of $3,185,
or 3.5%, which was due to State mandates.
July 23, 2009 22
Commissioner O'Bryan, Chairman of the Value Adjustment Board, explained that the
State mandates required the VAB to hire outside counsel, and further, because of changes in the
VAB legislation, the Board was expecting an increase in petitions.
NON -DEPARTMENTAL STATE AGENCIES
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard immediately following the Sheriff's Budget and the
Motions to adopt the SWDD Budget).
Administrator Baird informed the Board that the overall proposed budget for the State
Agencies was $2,356,103, a $74,214 or 3.1% reduction. He thereafter outlined the proposed
budgets for the State Agencies (see page 31 of the backup), and explained that although the State
Attorney had cut his budget, the County had to pay 28% more to offset decreased fee revenues,
due to a State mandate.
Commissioner O'Bryan remarked on the spread of the H1N1 Virus and wondered if there
was any way to help the State Health Department, who has had their funding cut by the County
and the State.
Administrator Baird said he had told Miranda Swanson, Health Department
Administrator, to come to him immediately if she requires appropriations because of the flu.
Ms. Swanson thanked the Commissioners and Mr. Baird for their support. She talked
about staff efficiencies, and assured Commissioners she would not request additional funds
unless it was absolutely necessary. She said the Health Department was also expecting
additional Federal funds to help with H1N1-related expenses.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Administrator Baird announced that the recommended budget for this item was $119,332,
an increase of $19,712 or 19.8%.
July 23, 2009 23
CHILDREN'S SERVICES
Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget was $768,100, a decrease of
$114,600 or 13.0%.
SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Administrator Baird announced that the proposed budget for the Sebastian Community
Redevelopment District was $215,543, a reduction of $39,674 or 15.5%, and the proposed
budget for the Fellsmere Community Redevelopment Area was $32,500, a reduction of $2,215 or
6.4%.
CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM
Care Net Pregnancy Centers— Administrator Baird announced that the recommended
budget is $17,000, the same as last year; and noted that their fees are based on the Choose Life
license plate sales.
QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
Administrator Baird announced the proposed budgets as follows:
Community Transportation Coordinator (Senior Resource Association, Inca - recommended
$584,947, down $474,110, a reduction of 44.8%.
Cultural Council - recommended $40,454, the same as last year.
Gifford Youth Activity Center - recommended $105,307, the same as last year.
Progressive Civic League of Gifford - recommended $15,000, the same as last year.
Humane Society - recommended $395,547, same as last year
Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council - recommended $17,859, the same as last year.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
No presentation was made.
DORI SLOSBERG DRIVER EDUCATION SAFETY ACT
No presentation was made.
July 23, 2009 24
Dee Hollenbeck detailed some of the inefficiencies she saw within the Animal Control
Division, such as $35,000 worth of overtime; the use of trained Animal Control officers to do
data entry; and not providing field staff with the wireless air cards necessary for them to utilize
the mobile laptops. She further inquired whether money could be saved by putting Animal
Control under the Sheriff's Department, as is done in St. Lucie County.
Emergency Services Director John King responded to Mrs. Hollenbeck's questions and
comments, providing a brief history, and discussing the responsibilities and structuring of the
Animal Control Division.
Mrs. Hollenbeck, Commissioners, and staff continued to offer comments and
suggestions on cost -savings measures for the Animal Control Division. Observations were also
made on the importance of speedy input of the licensing data, the role played by the licensing
bodies (vet or Humane Society), and the former backlog of 7,000 applications; with further
commentary on the use of Animal Control officers to input the data.
Commissioner O'Bryan suggested that Director King, Human Resources Director Jim
Sexton, and a Budget staff member, meet with Mrs. Hollenbeck and look at some of the things
she has brought forward to see if there are potential cost savings.
Administrator Baird stated that staff was evaluating all of the cost -savings mechanisms
and that he would meet with the Sheriff to get a proposal, if the Sheriff was interested in
providing Animal Control services.
Ryk Hollenbeck proposed getting some community help with the data entry, which is
sometimes backlogged for three months.
July 23, 2009 25
Director Brown announced that the Public Hearing on the Tentative Budget and Proposed
Millage would be held on September 9, 2009 at 5:01 p.m., and the final Budget Hearing and
Adoption of Millage Rates would take place on September 16, 2009 at 5:01 p.m.
Chairman Davis extended kudos to staff for pulling the budget together, and to the
Constitutional Officers who have gone further than he has ever seen during his tenure.
Concluding his budget presentation, Administrator Baird commended his staff and the
Constitutionals, who all worked together to accomplish this year's tight budget.
(Clerk's Note: All business was completed in one day and therefore a meeting on July
24, 2009 was not necessary and would not be held).
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Chairman declared the Budget Workshop adjourned
at 4:42 p.m.
ALL BACKUP DOCUMENTATION IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD AND
IS HEREBY MADE A PART OF THESE MINUTES
ATTEST:
Jeffrey . arton, Clerk
Minutes Approved: SEP 0 8 2009
MG/Budget Workshop
July 23, 2009
Wesley S. Davis, airman
26