HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/14/2010JEFFREY K. BARTON
Clerk to the Board
INDEX TO MINUTES OF BUDGET WORKSHOP
OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF JULY 14, 2010
CALL TO ORDER 1
INVOCATION 1
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 1
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA 2
GENERAL OVERVIEW SESSION — JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR 2
GENERAL FUND 3
MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.T.U.) 5
TRANSPORTATION FUND 8
EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT 8
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July 14, 2010
AGGREGATE MILLAGE 9
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND 9
LAND ACQUISITION BONDS - 2004 REFERENDUM 9
STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS 9
OTHER M.S.B.U. 10
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 10
ENTERPRISE FUNDS 10
GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE AND CLUBHOUSE 1 1
BUILDING DEPARTMENT 1 1
UTILITY SERVICES: WASTEWATER TREATMENT/WATER PRODUCTION/GENERAL &
ENGINEERING/SLUDGE OPERATIONS/CUSTOMER SERVICE/WASTEWATER
COLLECTION/WATER DISTRIBUTION 1 1
UTILITY IMPACT FEES 11
MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS 11
CAPITAL PROJECTS 13
PUBLIC HEARING - SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.) 14
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS 14
NON -DEPARTMENTAL 21
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July 14, 2010
STATE AGENCIES 21
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 22
CHILDREN'S SERVICES 23
SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 23
FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 24
CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM 24
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 24
QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 25
ADJOURNMENT 27
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July 14, 2010
JEFFREY K. BARTON
Clerk to the Board
July 14, 2010
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 Wednesday, July 14, 2010 to
conduct a Budget Workshop. Present were Chairman Peter D. O'Bryan, Vice Chairman Bob
Solari, Commissioners Wesley S. Davis, Joseph E. Flescher, and Gary C. Wheeler. Also present
were County Administrator Joseph A. Baird, County Attorney Alan S. Polackwich, Sr., and
Deputy Clerk Leona Adair Allen.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman O'Bryan called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
INVOCATION
Jeffrey R. Smith, Chief Deputy Clerk of Circuit Court, delivered the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chairman O'Bryan led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
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July 14, 2010
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
Due to CONSENSUS from the July 13, 2010 Board of County Commission Meeting, to
move the Constitutional Officers item to follow the State Agencies item, Chairman O'Bryan
requested the change be made to today's Agenda.
ON MOTION by Commissioner Wheeler, SECONDED
by Vice Chairman Solari, the Board unanimously
approved the Agenda as amended.
GENERAL OVERVIEW SESSION — JOSEPH A. BAIRD, COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Administrator Baird, through a PowerPoint Presentation (on file), defined the proposed
2010/2011 Budget. He announced that the proposed Budget is $258,855,120, a decrease of
$100,022,016 (27.87%) from 2009/2010. He highlighted the major Budget impacts, indicating
that the proposed taxes would levy a $10.2 million, or 11.6% decrease from last year; including a
tax roll decline in the General Fund of 10.4%, a 12.8% reduction in the Municipal Services
Taxing Unit (M.S.T.U.); and a 12.4% decline in the Emergency Service District (E.S.D). He
advised that there would be no Merit/Step raises for non-union or IAFF employees, for a savings
of $1,032,143 (Teamsters raises totaled $437,405); interest earnings are down $1,977,097
(39.2%); overtime is decreased by $240,138 (11.0%); retirement rates will increase by $364,291;
health insurance administrative fees will decrease by $179,000; the original $15 million portion
of the land acquisition bond issue was paid off; taxing funds are down $22.5 million (13.6%);
$2.8 million will be used from Fund Reserve Usage to balance the Budgets; and 45 full-time and
five part-time positions were eliminated, for a savings of $2,776,572.
Administrator Baird presented the comparison of proposed Ad Valorem versus current
revenue as follows:
1.) General Fund - $43,705,714 (-$5,467,010) a -11.1% decrease
2.) M.S.T.U. - $8,393,992 (-$1,344,431) a -13.8% decrease
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July 14, 2010
3.) Emergency Services District - $19,960,423 (-$3,002,633) a -13.1% decrease
4.) Land Acquisition Bond - $962,856 (-$191,172) a -16.6% decrease
5.) Land Acquisition Bond — 2004 Referendum - $4,818,777 (-$201,642) -4.0%
decrease
GENERAL FUND
Administrator Baird, providing a proposed General Fund Budget overview, reported that
the Ad Valorem reduction is $5,467,010, a 11.1% decrease; interest earnings were down
$85,000, a 17.7% decrease; seven positions were eliminated for a total savings of $521,204;
there were no Merit raises; the retirement rate increased by $51,052; Constitutionals were
requested to reduce their Budgets; and Fund Reserves of $815,000 were used to balance the
Budget.
Administrator Baird presented the proposed millage and history for the General Fund
millage as 3.0892, with no change from last year; the M.S.T.U. Fund is 1.0733, a difference of
-0.38%; and the Emergency Services District millage is at 1.7148, the same as last year. He
thereafter continued his presentation by summarizing the recommended Budget proposals,
reductions, or increases as follows:
Board of County Commissioners Operations $ 852,057 8.6% decrease
County Attorney $ 682,095 7.0% decrease
Communications/Emergency Services $ 450,903 13.8% decrease
Main Library $2,063,373 6.7% decrease
Medicaid $ 615,000 8.6% decrease
North County Library $ 931,943 7.4% decrease
Brackett Library $ 191,061 14.7% decrease
IRC Soil and Water Conservation- $ 52,490 3.1% decrease
Law Library $ 110,859 6.8% decrease
Administrator - Operations $ 429,426 15.4% decrease
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July 14, 2010
General Services $ 112,445 47.1% decrease
Human Resources $ 392,417 6.2% decrease
Planning and Development $ 0 100%
Veterans Services $ 235,518 1.5% decrease
Emergency Management $ 410,855 31.2% decrease
Parks $2,047,347 7.0% decrease
Human Services $ 311,625 9.6% decrease
AG Extension $ 98,803 32.8% decrease
Youth Guidance $ 87,417 11.7% decrease
Purchasing $ 184,323 9.7% decrease
Facilities Management $3,256,554 8.9% decrease
Office of Management & Budget $ 313,503 9.1% decrease
FPL Grant Expenditures $ 100,227 2.9% decrease
Emergency Base Grant $ 87,976 0.3% increase
Computer Services $ 546,475 14.2% decrease
Insurance Premiums $ 389,235 8.5% decrease
County Animal Control $ 480,205 0.3% decrease
Mailroom/Switchboard $ 357,062 2.4% decrease
The above recommendations bring the total for the Board of County Commissioners
Departments in the General Fund to a proposed Budget of $15,791,194, a reduction of 9.6%.
Administrator Baird addressed questions and concerns from the Board regarding tower
expenses and maintaining levels of service.
Carolyn Corum, Dolores Street, asked and received clarification regarding text from
pages 15 (increasing the Budget), 17 (Traffic Impact Fees), and 25 (Special Revenue Funds) of
the backup material.
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July 14, 2010
MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT (M.S.T.U.)
Administrator Baird provided an overview and history of the proposed Budgets and
reductions for the Departmental Budgets under the M.S.T.0 Budget. He reported that the
Budget is proposed at $25,590,018, a decrease of $4,797,098 (15.8% reduction). He also
proposed the millage to be 1.0733, a reduction of 0.4% below the current year, 14.5% below
rollback. He said transfers to the Transportation Fund are down $772,978, 3.8%; Department
decreases were $903,693, 15.5%; the Half -Cent Sales Taxes are down by $125,526, and the
Franchise Fees are increased by $215,000. He thereafter summarized the M.S.T.U.
Departmental expenses as follows:
North County Aquatic Center $ 726,404 6.2% decrease
Gifford Aquatic Center $ 269,557 6.8% decrease
Recreation $1,034,201 18.1% decrease
Ocean Rescue $ 741,457 15.1% decrease
Shooting Range $ 330,545 7.0% decrease
Community Development $ 216,019 0.2% increase
County Planning $ 908,626 11.8% decrease
Code Enforcement $ 404,821 28.7% decrease
Parks $ 86,179 31.1% decrease
Roads and Bridges- 0 100%
Telecommunications $ 111,791 12.5% decrease
Tax Collector $ 90,000 0.00%
Administrator Baird reported the total M.S.T.0 Budgets at $4,919,600, a $903,693
reduction, or 15.5%.
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July 14, 2010
Administrator Baird pointed out the reductions in services, including the elimination of
lifeguards at Treasure Shores Park, the reduction of hours at the Gifford Aquatic Center, and the
Activity Pool at North County opening in May instead of March.
Management and Budget Director Jason Brown explained the 100% decrease for the
Road and Bridge Department.
There was a brief discussion/debate among the Commissioners and staff after Chairman
O'Bryan spoke about the e-mails he had received from residents who wanted the lifeguards to
remain at Treasure Shores Park beach, and a recommendation from another individual who
wished to see it totally closed if the lifeguards are eliminated, due to safety issues.
Discussion ensued regarding the services and lifeguard positions that could be restored if
the Teamsters Local 769 should waive their pay raises.
Steve Myers, Business Agent with Teamsters Local 769, opposed eliminating the
lifeguards at Treasure Shores, expressed the willingness of the Teamsters to forego their wage
increases, and acknowledged that there was a written Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Carolyn Corum, commented on the Union pay increase, and suggested implementing a
new rule to make it fair for all County employees.
The following individuals spoke in opposition to eliminating the lifeguards at Treasure
Shores Park:
Joan O'Haire, 944 Frangipani Drive, Vero Beach
Frank Bilotta, 994 S. Easy Street, Sebastian
Jama (surname inaudible)
Daniel Elward, 990 Flamingo, Sebastian
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July 14, 2010
Joe McManus, 13450 77th Street, Fellsmere, representing the lifeguards who are
members of the Recreation Bargaining Unit, provided a handout (on file) and pointed out the
oversights in the Budget and services. He also spoke about Florida's weather-related and rip
current deaths.
MOTION was made by Commissioner Flescher,
SECONDED by Chairman O'Bryan, to return to the
Budget the positions that will be gained from the
Teamsters forgoing their pay raises, prioritizing two
lifeguard positions to Treasure Shores Beach, and adding
the remaining positions back to the Budget as staff deems
appropriate.
Vice Chairman Solari did not wish to vote and make a commitment until the entire
Budget is heard.
There was a brief debate/discussion among the Commissioners pertaining to Budget cuts,
protecting the taxpayer, safety at the beach, hearing other Budget categories before making a
decision, and bringing this back at the end of the meeting for discussion.
Commissioner Flescher and Chairman O'Bryan
WITHDREW the Motion.
Nathan McCollum sought and received clarification pertaining to the $225,000 increase
in anticipated revenue under the MSTU electric franchise fee.
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July 14, 2010
TRANSPORTATION FUND
Administrator Baird announced that the proposed Transportation Fund Budget is
$13,315,401, a decrease of $2,417,305, or 15.4%. He said that the staff reduction of twelve full-
time positions is a savings of $600,373; that there was a savings of $97,822 due to no Merit
raises and an increase of $130,945 for Teamsters; the retirement rate increases have caused an
additional cost of $34,986, and the additional Gas Tax increased by $49,663, or 2.3%. He
outlined the individual Departmental expenses and reductions as follows:
Road and Bridge showed a proposed Budget of $6,745,204, a reduction of $553,160, or 7.6%
Public Works is $304,650, a 16.9% reduction
County Engineering is $1,942,511, a 4.7% reduction
Traffic Engineering $2,179,366, a 10.68% reduction
Stormwater $576,834, a 14.1% reduction
The total Transportation Department's proposed Budget is $11,748,565, a 16.7% reduction.
Administrator Baird and Director Jason Brown clarified points relating to Subdivision
Improvement Funds, and noted that the details of the millage are located under the "Paving"
section of the Road and Bridge Department Budget.
EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT (E.S.D.)
FIRE RESCUE
Administrator Baird stated that the proposed Budget is $26,493,200, a decrease of
$1,990,318, or 7.0%. He said that the real estate decline has caused a $3 million, or 13.1%
decrease in the taxable value and revenue; there are no Step or Merit increases for the firefighters
or paramedics; and that the elimination of one full-time position is a savings of $94,890. He
conveyed that Fire Rescue is about $2 million into the Fund Balance, that there would be no
decrease in services, and that the proposed millage rate is 1.7148, 13.4% below rollback.
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July 14, 2010
Commissioners and staff reiterated appreciation to the Fire Fighters' Union for voting to
amend their contract, and agreeing to forego their raises.
Walter Geiger, 3944 58th Circle, Vero Beach, representing the Indian River Taxpayers'
Association, provided suggestions and explanations on how to save money by reducing
Firefighters' overtime, and relocating or eliminating ambulances. He also commented on
modifying and reducing pension liabilities of the future.
The Chairman called a break at 10:53 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 11:10 a.m.,
with all members present.
AGGREGATE MILLAGE
STATE PROPOSED AGGREGATE MILLAGE
Administrator Baird conveyed that the proposed Aggregate Millage is 5.0933, 0.7219
below rollback, or 12.4%.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAND ACQUISITION BOND
LAND ACQUISITION BONDS — 2004 REFERENDUM
Administrator Baird reported that the proposed Budget for the Environmentally Sensitive
Land Acquisition Bonds is $1,058,713, with millage of .0681, a .0044 reduction, or 6.1%. Under
the $50 million Land Acquisition Bonds — 2004 Referendum, the proposed Budget is
$4,751,963, a $41,135 reduction, which is an increase in millage due to the values going down.
He said the proposed millage rate is .3406, an increase of .0252 more than last year.
STREETLIGHTING DISTRICTS
Administrator Baird announced the Streetlighting Districts (per parcel/acre assessments)
rates, then explained the accumulation of reductions.
Gifford $25.00 Laurelwood $18.00
Rockridge $ 8.00 Vero Highland $23.00
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July 14, 2010
Porpoise Point
Tierra Linda
Ixora
Roseland
Moorings
Glendale Lakes
West Wabasso
$11.00
$21.00
$17.00
$1.00
$10.00
$40.00
$21.00
Laurel Court
Vero Shores
Poinciana Park
Whispering Pines
Walker's Glen
Floralton Beach
$27.00
$19.00
$28.00
$16.00
$22.00
$38.00
OTHER M.S.B.U.
Administrator Baird reported that the East Gifford Stormwater M.S.B.U. proposed
Budget is $1,986, a decrease of $9.00 from last year ($10.00 per parcel/acre charge); and the
Vero Lake Estates M.S.B.U. proposed Budget is $439,658, an increase of $581 from last year
($19.00 per parcel/acre charge).
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS
Administrator Baird announced the proposed Budgets as follows:
Fleet Management: $3,214,500, reduction of a $196,816
Self -Insurance Fund: $5,347,899, reduction of $702,549
Employee Health: $13,904,921, an increase of $15,375
Geographic Information Systems: $717,915, reduction of $42,900
There was CONSENSUS among Commissioners to hear
the Enterprise Funds and Miscellaneous Funds that were
originally scheduled for Thursday, July 15, 2010.
ENTERPRISE FUNDS
Administrator Baird outlined the proposed Budgets and reductions for all Departments
under the Enterprise Funds, and also noted that there were no rate increases in any of the
Enterprise Funds.
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July 14, 2010
GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE AND CLUBHOUSE
Administrator Baird said the proposed Budget for the Golf Course is $2,885,148, a
reduction of $329,797 from last year.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
Administrator Baird announced that the Building Depaitment's proposed Budget is
$1,784,816, a $247,252 decrease from last year.
UTILITY SERVICES: WASTEWATER TREATMENT/WATER PRODUCTION/ GENERAL &
ENGINEERING/SLUDGE OPERATIONS/CUSTOMER SERVICE/WASTEWATER
COLLECTION/WATER DISTRIBUTION
Administrator Baird conveyed that the proposed Budget for Utility Services is
$38,476,206, a $1,228,081 decrease from last year. He said six positions were eliminated, and
that revenues are down about 1%.
UTILITY IMPACT FEES
Administrator Baird stated that the proposed Budget is $661,200, a $1,023,150 reduction
from last year, due to the lack of growth in the economy.
MISCELLANEOUS FUNDS
Administrator Baird announced the following proposed Budgets with the reductions or
increases:
Road Improvement Fees $ 0.00 $ 1,028,500 reduction
New Traffic Improvement Fees $1,377,500 $22,784,557 reduction
Additional Impact Fees $ 282,163 $ 3,688,297 reduction
Court Facilities Fund $ 45,000 same as last year
Housing Authority $ 144,997 $3,950 increase
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July 14, 2010
Rental Assistance
Secondary Road Construction
Special Law Enforcement
Parks Development
Tree Ordinance Fines
Tourist Development Fund
911 Surcharge
Drug Abuse Fund
IRCLHAP/SHIP
Metro Plan Organization (MPO)
Multi -Jurisdiction Law Enforcement
Native Uplands Acquisition
Beach Restoration
Neighborhood Stabilization Plan
Florida Boating Improvement Program
Library Request Fund
Disabled Access Programs
Intergovernmental Grants
Traffic Education Program
CDBG Disaster Recovery Grant
Court Facility Surcharge Fund
Additional Court Costs
Court Technology Fund
Land Acquisition Series 2006
Dodger Bonds
$2,114,688
$9,335,515
$ 0.00
$ 0.00
$ 50,000
$ 628,750
$1,935,540
$ 117,686
$1,868,902
$ 593,633
$ 0.00
$ 55,000
$1,537,945
$ 3,933
$ 35,000
$ 50,000
$ 20,000
$ 182,322
$ 0.00
$ 0.00
$ 177,000
$ 85,814
$ 245,800
$ 40,000
$1,238,833
$194,792 increase
$7,226,222 reduction
$115,282 reduction
$25,000 reduction
same as last year
$294,017 reduction
$1,140,363 increase
$14,210 reduction
$793,320 increase
$152,857 reduction
$50,198 reduction
same as last year
$11,677,026 reduction
$4,667,427 reduction
$318,051 reduction
$19,801 reduction
same as last year
$2,834,762 decrease
$45,000 reduction
$481,328 reduction
$43,500 increase
$91,807 decrease
$47,800 increase
$594,734 reduction
$3,400 reduction
Vice Chairman Solari wanted to know if there was a sense of how much grant money
(under Intergovernmental Grants) could be received at this time. Administrator Baird explained
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July 14, 2010
that some grants were acknowledged, but at this point staff does not know until they become
available, and he confirmed that there would be grants that will be applied for next year.
Chairman O'Bryan wanted to know why the Court Facility Surcharge Fund increased,
and Director Brown explained how this funds the court facilities for the State Attorney Public
Defender and Court Administration. He disclosed that these reserve dollars are being brought to
the table to fund the rent for court facilities (services), and that the revenues are more than what
was budgeted for the year. He also clarified that the Court Technology Fund is the fund for
technology needs at the Courthouse. Discussion thereafter ensued regarding the efficiency of
technology replacement.
Administrator Baird, in response to Commissioner Davis's query, acknowledged that the
County is in the process of addressing the unsightly working waterfront parcels, and that the
issue would be coming before the Board in August or September.
Carolyn Corum asked for and received clarification pertaining to the 516.6% increase in
capital for the Communications Center, under the 911 Surcharge Fund 120 (page 72 of backup);
and the 99.9% decrease in the CDBG Neighborhood Stabilization Plan Fund 129 (page 79 of
backup).
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The Dodgertown Capital Reserve Fund has zero dollars budgeted for next year, down
$1,701,452, with a $2 million Reserve Fund set aside from when the facility was purchased from
the Dodgers.
The Optional One -Cent Sales Tax has a Budget of $14,942,71 1, a $17,976,083 reduction
from last year.
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July 14, 2010
Director Brown, in response to Vice Chairman Solari's query, stated that the optional
sales tax monies that were set aside for Fire Station 13 have not been spent, and will flow into a
reserve.
The Chairman announced that the Budget Workshop would adjourn for lunch at
11:45a.m., and reconvene at 1:30 p.m.
AFTERNOON SESSION
Chairman O'Bryan reconvened the Budget Workshop, and opened the Public Hearing for
the Solid Waste Disposal District (S. W.D.D.) at 1:30 p.m., with all members present.
PUBLIC HEARING - SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT (S.W.D.D.)
(Clerk's Note: For presentation and Board actions, please refer to the SWDD 2010/2011
Budget Workshop minutes, which are being prepared separately).
The Chairman adjourned the SWDD Public Hearing and reopened the Budget Workshop
meeting at 1:49 p.m.
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard following Fellsmere Community Redevelopment
Area, and is placed here for continuity.)
Administrator Baird reported that the overall Constitutional Officers recommendation
under the General Fund is $45,887,427, a $3,048,350, or 6.2% decrease.
Vice Chairman Solari reviewed departmental cuts from prior years, felt the Constitutional
Officers' efforts were exceptional, and wished to see a balance in dollars among all the agencies.
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July 14, 2010
CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT — JEFFREY K. BARTON
Administrator Baird announced that the Clerk of the Court's recommended Budget for
2010/2011 was $995,075, a $30,775 or 3.0% reduction from last year.
Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller Jeffrey Barton emphasized the strain in making
cuts, as well as the pressure of accomplishing more demands with less people. He feared that
next year would bring more cuts, and that people would be let go. He stressed that the job could
not be accomplished with less people, due to technical outside responses and demands. Mr.
Barton stated that he was willing to cut more than what was originally proposed, but voiced
concern that if demands on staff continue to escalate, more people would be needed, not less. He
advised the Board that he would be willing to compromise and cut his budget by half of what the
Board is asking, $15,000 to $20,000, instead of $30,775.
Commissioner Davis gave kudos to Mr. Barton and his staff, and agreed that next year
would probably be the same.
There was a brief discussion between Mr. Barton and the Board regarding the amount of
time spent by his staff assisting the Housing Authority, reviewing and dealing with State
mandates, and working with the State as a team.
Administrator Baird explained the situation with the Housing Authority, and agreed to
work with Mr. Barton to make improvements.
Commissioner Wheeler supported Mr. Barton's request to cut his Budget by $15,000 in
lieu of $30,775.
Chairman O'Bryan expressed that he would bring this back for Board direction at the end
of the meeting.
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July 14, 2010
In response to Chairman O'Bryan, Mr. Barton disclosed that his staff is lacking the
software necessary to keep up with technology, and he reminded the Board that he has not asked
for capital to purchase anything in ten years, other than the Value Adjustment Board's "Axia"
program.
TAX COLLECTOR — CAROLE JEAN JORDAN
Administrator Baird explained that staff would not receive the Tax Collector's Budget
until August 1, 2010; however, he provided staff's estimate net cost at $1,265,104, based on last
year's figures.
Tax Collector Carole Jean Jordan spoke about cutting costs, her staff and her office's
accomplishments, the issuance of drivers' licenses, and the REAL ID Act. She acknowledged
that the State of Florida will be closing the south US 1 State Drivers License office in May of
2011, and that her office would be taking on the additional work.
PROPERTY APPRAISER — DAVID C. NOLTE
Administrator Baird reported the Property Appraiser's Budget to be $2,364,753, a
reduction of $225,086, or 8.7% decrease from last year.
Property Appraiser David Nolte advised the Board that next year the State would not be
able to assist with money, and he felt the economy would continue to be difficult. He said the
economics of the tax roll would continue to be on the downside, he has seen no signs of
recovery, there has been no increase in new construction, and there is no turn -around in values.
He felt his office could still function even with the 28% reduction in staff, and he assured the
Board that his office will continue to do what needs to be done to ensure the County functions as
well as it can.
Commissioner Wheeler commended Mr. Nolte, pointing out that over the last ten years
his overall Budget has only increased 6.2%.
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July 14, 2010
SHERIFF — DERYL LOAR
(Clerk's Note: The Sheriff's Budget was heard following the Supervisor of Elections, and
is placed here for continuity).
Administrator Baird recommended the Sheriff's Budget to be $40,174,473, a $2,761,499,
or 6.4% reduction from last year.
Sheriff Deryl Loar clarified that the $41,967,614 Budget that he submitted in May was
below budget, but due to the Legislative mandate increase in contribution rates for the Florida
Retirement System (FRS), the proposed 2011 Budget was increased to $42,835,156. He
believed that the requirement of submitting his Budget request by May 1st, when the Legislature
does not end its session until June, was contributing to the problem.
Sheriff Loar provided a recap of last year's Budget, and an overview of his May 2010
Budget submittal. He also presented a PowerPoint presentation (on file) showing why he needed
his full Budget request. Through the presentation he explained his five-year Budget comparison,
defined expenditures, Budget assistance through Grants, the increase in the County's population,
and the process of a typical request for service through the Indian River County Sheriff's Office
Public Safety Dispatch (IRCSO PSD). He also described the K-9 Unit, School Resource Unit,
criminal investigation statistics, responses to crime scenes, sex offender/predators, the increase in
prescription drug related deaths, Courthouse services and statistics, and specifics relating to the
County's Corrections Facility. Sheriff Loar reiterated that his agency was not in the position to
relax on any of the aforesaid components. He also voiced concern over maintenance issues, the
cost of repairs to the jail, and the increase in facility maintenance costs.
Discussion ensued between the Sheriff and the Board regarding cuts/reductions to the
Sheriff's Budget, unfunded and fully funded positions, the Budget process, how and why the
Sheriff's Budget starts with a negative balance at the beginning of each Fiscal Year, reducing
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July 14, 2010
costs by combining services, and whether Fellsmere and Indian River Shores could/should be
charged for dispatch services.
The Board voiced concerns over the increases in the Sheriff s Budget, public safety, and
reducing the Sheriff's Budget. There were also comments regarding the reduction of costs in
emergency services, not being able to afford the Sheriff's Department as we currently know it,
reducing the Budget without a reduction in the level of services, and technology challenges.
Chairman O'Bryan suggested the Sheriff come up with $400,000 from his Capital
account, reduce his vacant positions, and meet the Budget demands half -way. He felt the repairs
to the jail were a one-time cost, and suggested the money be moved from the Reserve Fund
Balance to cover this cost, since it is not re -occurring.
Comptroller Harry Hall, at the request of Chairman O'Bryan, clarified the budgeted
salary calculations, how his agency decided the cost to fully fund 100% employment, and how a
"soft freeze" would cover the $1.5 million underfunding.
Discussion ensued pertaining to the filling of vacant positions and cutting services.
Commissioner Wheeler proposed that the Sheriff's requested Budget be reduced to
$40,261,450.
Chairman O'Bryan proposed moving $600,000 to the Sheriff's Budget from the Reserve
Fund Balance, as a one time reimbursement for the $380,975 in repairs/upgrades to the jail, and
adding $800,000 from the General Fund, for a total of $1.4 million.
Chairman O'Bryan opened the floor to public comments.
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July 14, 2010
Paul Teresi, President of the Indian River County Taxpayers' Association, said the
Association's Board of Directors and Budget Task Force recommended a three to four percent
cut in the Sheriff's Budget.
Cyril Knowles, 7855 91st Avenue, Vero Beach, supported cutting the Sheriff's Budget.
He also asked for and received clarification regarding personnel hires/cuts, and inmates being
charged for medical expenses.
There being no additional speakers, the Chairman closed the floor to public comments.
Sheriff Loar asked for and received clarification and specifics regarding the formula that
was used for his proposed Budget cuts.
Discussion ensued regarding the Board not wanting to increase taxes, maintenance of the
jail facility, whether to take the funds from the Reserves or the Fund Balance, and taking the
necessary steps to ensure that drastic cuts will not be required next year.
After a lengthy debate between the Board and staff, there was CONSENSUS that the
Sheriff's Budget be set at $39,467,614, which includes a one-time expenditure of $600,000
(from County Reserves for jail repairs, totaling $40,067,614, a cut of $1,900,000. Note:
Electrical services will be separate.
The Board authorized Sheriff Loar to submit a memo to Administrator Baird for Board
approval when transferring capital, expenses, and salaries.
In conclusion, Commissioners and staff reiterated to Sheriff Loar how they greatly
appreciate the job he and his Department are doing, the difficulty of making decisions and
cutting back, their faith and confidence in him, and the desire to keep the doors of
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July 14, 2010
communication open. Chairman O'Bryan asked the Sheriff to inform his Department that this is
not a reflection on them, but purely an economic situation.
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS — KAY CLEM
(Clerk's Note: This Item was heard prior to the Sheriff's presentation, and is placed here
for continuity).
Administrator Baird reported that the Supervisor of Elections's proposed Budget is
$1,001,962, a reduction of $30,990, or 3.0%.
Supervisor of Elections Kay Clem voiced concern over the dilemma of her Budget cuts
and where her office stands. She revealed that her Budget was cut by one-third, her full-time
staff was reduced by 46%, the number of votes increased by more than 25,000 voters, and that
her office is now at the 2003 spending level. She also explained and spoke about how she
reduced her own benefits, how she provides her staff with water and soft drinks, the elimination
of her temporary positions, the elimination of all advertising (except what is mandated by the
State), reduced absentee postage, the negotiation of the price for optical scan ballots, the cost of
felon investigations and mailings, the costs of the national change of address program, and the
additional costs in replacing servers and security equipment. Ms. Clem also voiced concern that
Sequoia Voting Systems had been purchased by another company, that three companies were
merging, and are laying people off. She said she does not have a back-up IT Manager, and was
worried that should there be a ballot tabulation problem, the vendor would not send someone
with the necessary experience. She requested to withdraw her proposed Budget to the Board
with a 2.55% decrease, and provide one that includes a 5% increase over the original Budget, so
she can take care of the aforesaid issues.
Administrator Baird said that he would meet with her during the next break to discuss
some of the items that he could assist her with.
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July 14, 2010
VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD (VAB)
Administrator Baird advised that this year's proposed Budget for the Value Adjustment
Board's was $86,060.
The Chairman called a break at 3:04 p.m. and reconvened the Workshop at 3:17 p.m.,
with all Commissioners present.
NON -DEPARTMENTAL
STATE AGENCIES
(Clerk's Note: This item was heard immediately following the Solid Waste Disposal
District and is placed here for continuity).
Administrator Baird informed the Board that the overall proposed Budget for State
Agencies is $2,055,654, a $243,074 or 10.6% reduction.
Administrator Baird advised that all State Agencies were cut due to revenue reductions,
and summarized the recommended Budgets as follows:
New Horizons - recommended $303,328, a reduction of 10.0% from last year.
John Romano, CEO of New Horizons, thanked the Board for their years of support and
addressed their proposed cuts.
State Health Department - recommended $580,056, a reduction of 10.0%.
Miranda Swanson, Health Department Administrator, thanked the Board for their
support, and assured the Board that her staff would continue to try to maintain their current level
of support, despite reduced funds.
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July 14, 2010
Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council - recommended $58,163, same as last year
(this is a State formula).
Department of Juvenile Justice - recommended $594,944, same as last year.
Environmental Control Board — recommended $17,073, a reduction of 10.0%.
Circuit Court Administration - recommended $64,046, a reduction of 52.4%.
Tom Genung, Trial Courts Administrator, thanked the Board for their support, and
commented on the cuts in his Budget.
Guardian Ad Litem — recommended $33,545, a reduction of 8.8%.
Victim Assistance Program - recommended $48,375, a reduction of 10.0%.
State Attorney - recommended $37,712, a reduction of 27.3%.
Public Defender - recommended $4,796, a reduction of 16.7%.
Medical Examiner - recommended $313,616, a reduction of 13.4%.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Administrator Baird announced that the recommended Budget for this item was
$119,332, the same as last year.
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July 14, 2010
CHILDREN'S SERVICES
The Children's Services Advisory's "Need Assessment Subcommittee" recommended,
with staff's direction, that the policy be set for a 10% reduction from last year, bringing the
proposed recommended Budget to $691,290. He thereafter reported the following
recommendations:
Big Brothers and Big Sisters $ 12,344
Boys & Girls Club of IRC $ 44,439
Catholic Charities $ 26,664
CCCR $188,624
Dasie Bridgewater Hope Center $ 55,303
Early Learning Coalition $ 8,888
Exchange Club Castle $ 36,540
Gifford Youth Activity Center $ 27,158
Healthy Start $ 48,884
Homeless Family Center $ 9,876
Junior League $ 12,344
Mental Health Association $ 14,813
Redland Christian Migrant $ 24,689
Substance Abuse Council $169,861
United for Families $ 10,863
SEBASTIAN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Administrator Baird revealed that due to property values being down, the proposed
Budget was estimated at $143,516, a $72,027 reduction from last year. He explained how the
incremental increase (from when the Community Redevelopment Agency was put into place), is
reimbursed to the cities, from the County.
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July 14, 2010
FELLSMERE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Administrator Baird said this proposed Budget was $19,517, a $12,983 reduction.
CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATE PROGRAM
Administrator Baird expects the revenue received from the Choose Life License Plate
Program to be estimated at $17,000, same as last year, and will go to the Care Net Pregnancy
Center of Indian River County_
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
Administrator Baird announced the following Non -Profit Organizations and their
proposed recommendations:
Cultural Council — recommended $36,409, a reduction of $4,045.
Mental Health Walk -In Clinic— recommended zero dollars, a reduction of $57,375.
Patty Nugent, Director of Operations for the Mental Health Organization, expressed
appreciation to the Board for their support and funding commitments. She acknowledged that
the Hospital District provides some funding, but to date they do not know how much it will be.
She explained how the walk-in clinic is a public safety issue, and how it is critical to the safety of
the community. She said the Mental Health is a separate and non-profit entity, and urged the
Board to reconsider financial reductions so they can continue to meet the needs of the
community
year.
Veterans Council of Indian River County, Inc. — recommended $74,940, same as last
State Forest Service — recommended $13,821, same as last year.
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July 14, 2010
Keep Indian River Beautiful (K.I.R.B.) recommended $40,641, a reduction of
$7,172.
QUASI -NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
Administrator Baird announced the proposed Budgets as follows:
Community Transportation Coordinator (Senior Resource Association, Inc.) -
recommended $526,452, a reduction of $1,693,080.
Gifford Youth Activity Center - recommended $94,777, a reduction of $10,530.
Freddie Woolfork, 4590 57th Avenue, Vero Beach, saw fairness in the disposition of
funds, and conveyed that the Center had been good stewards with managing services and the
monies received from the County. He informed the Board that two additional module units
would be opening at the school and that it would bring in 50 more students. He asked the Board
to consider providing any unattached dollars to the Center.
Progressive Civic League of Gifford - recommended $13,500, a reduction of $1,500.
Humane Society of Vero Beach and IRC, FL., Inc. - recommended $395,547, same as
last year.
Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, Inc. - recommended $16,073, a reduction
of $1,786.
Administrator Baird conveyed that the total proposed Budget for Quasi -Non -Profit
Agencies is $1,046,349, a reduction of $1,706,896, or 62.0%.
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July 14, 2010
Discussion ensued pertaining to the issues that were postponed from earlier in the day on
whether to fill the two lifeguard positions at Treasure Shores Park Beach, should the Teamsters
decide to forego their pay raises; if the $7,000 for Keep Indian River Beautiful (KIRB) should be
restored; and whether funding should be restored to the Mental Health Walk-in Clinic. There
was CONSENSUS among the Board to not support these requests.
Administrator Baird confirmed that he would be meeting with the Clerk of Circuit Court
regarding capital for a server; and the Supervisor of Elections for required facility improvements,
both of which will be brought back to the Board for approval.
The Board commended staff and employees for a job well done, and for making their
jobs easier.
Management and Budget Director Jason Brown read into the record the Preliminary
Budget Hearing scheduled for September 8, 2010 at 5:01 p.m., and the Final Budget Hearing
scheduled for September 15, 2010 at 5:01 p.m., both to be held at the Indian River County
Administration Building Chambers.
ALL BACKUP DOCUMENTATION IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD
AND ARE HEREBY MADE A PART OF THESE MINUTES
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July 14, 2010
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Chairman declared the workshop adjourned at
5:31 p.m.
ATTEST:
Jeffrey K. Barton, Clerk
Minutes Approved:
OCT 1 2 2010
BCC/LA/2010 Minutes
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July 14, 2010
C9/\3/1,‘da—
Peter D. O'Bryan, Chairman