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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/29/1981Thursday, October 29, 1981 The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met in Special Session at City Hall Council Chambers, 1053 20th Place, Vero Beach, Florida, on Thursday, October 29, 1981, at 5:01 o'clock P.M. Present were Patrick B. Lyons, Chairman; William C. Wodtke, Jr., Vice Chairman; Dick Bird; Alfred Grover Fletcher; and Don C. Scurlock, Jr. Also present were Neil A. Nelson, County Administrator; George G. Collins, Jr., Attorney to the Board of County Commissioners; Jeffrey K. Barton, Finance Officer; and Virginia Hargreaves, Deputy Clerk. The Chairman called the meeting to order and requested the indulgence of those present so that one matter other than the budget hearing could be attended to. The Chairman suggested that Indian River County send the Los Angeles Dodgers a vote of appreciation and congratulations on their winning the World Series. On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously authorized the preparation and adoption of Resolution 81-87A congratulating the Los Angeles Dodgers on their win and for representing both themselves and the county so well. Said Resolution will be made a part of the Minutes when completed and received. Chairman Lyons explained to the public the procedure that the Board must follow during these hearings in order to comply with the Statutes: (1) Announce the percentage by which the proposed millage rate exceeds the rolled back rate. (2) Explain the purpose the tax revenues are being increased. (3) Hear comments from the public. -(4) Discuss and adopt millage prior to budgets. (5) Adopt budget. 1 L- OCT 291981 Bou 47 PAGE 854 0 C T 29 1981 Boa 4 7 PAGE � The Chairman then announced that the final hearing on the Budget will be held at 5:00 P.M. November 4, 1981. Chairman Lyons wished to make it clear to the general public that the County collects only about 320 of the total taxes collected in the County; the rest is collected by other taxing bodies. In addition, a resident's tax will depend on their assessed valuation, and most of these valuations have been changed. He informed those present that if anyone has, any: -questions about their assessed ----- valuation, they still have time tomorrow to file an appeal with the Property Appraisal Adjustment Board. Chairman Lyons introduced Finance Officer Barton and requested that he first review the General Fund. Finance Officer Barton explained that the General Fund covers various types of services that benefit everyone no matter where they live in the county, such as: Legislative and Administrative Financial Legal Counsel Comprehensive Planning Law Enforcement Veterans Services Health Libraries Parks & Recreation, etc. Mr. Barton stated that last year the total budget for the General Fund was $7,358,000, and the percentage increase that was proposed on the T.R.I.M. notice for 1980 was a 10.75% increase over the rollback. Rolled back millage is defined by Statues as the amount of money we received last year divided by the new assessments of all the property that was assessed a year ago; new construction is not included. Last year's millage was 2.75747 or $2.76 per thousand. The millage proposed tonight is 2.65704 or $2.66 per thousand dollars taxable value, which is a 9.68% increase over the 2 F4= rollback calculation. Mr. Barton stated that on the average taxes should increase approximately 10% for this fund,and noted that the average assessment in the County went up 22%. Mr. Barton then went on to list the major reasons for the proposed increase in the General Fund: (1) the salaries and fringe benefit package (2) energy costs, and (3) durable hard goods or capital purchases. A gentleman in the audience inquired why taxes have increased 30% in two years and why the County's expenses have gone up so much. He suggested that the Commission cut out a few frills and talked about Proposition 13 which was instituted in California. O. Falcone of Vero Highlands stated that the assessment on his home was raised $15,000 last year and now has gone to $48,000, but he did not believe he could get that for a home in a neighborhood that has run down. The Chairman advised Mr. Falcone to file an appeal with the Property Appraisal Adjustment Board. William Koolage, county resident, felt people are very confused by the talk about millage rollback, etc., and he believed that what the Commission should be talking about is how much money they are going to spend, which is the basic issue from which all the rest is a derivative. He wished the Finance Officer would give the public figures on the dollars projected to be raised by property taxes this year as compared to last year. He felt the preliminary figures indicate there was a 20% increase, or in other words, the county is spending more. Mr. Koolage continued that there is an inflation factor of 11%, and he suggested that the Commission not budget for expenditures in excess of the inflation index. Mr. Koolage felt that the county must concentrate on such services as fire protection, police, etc., and do away with the little things that are not needed. C BOOK 47 PAGE 856 ' OCT 29 1981�j BOOK 4 7 PAGE 857 Finance Officer Barton reported that the total tax increase for this fund is $858,000 over last year, and the new assessments on new construction will pick up $300,000 of that, leaving $500,000 to be passed on to everything that existed last year. Paul Margel stated that he wished to see figures on every penny spent. Commissioner Scurlock explained the procedure of holding budget hearings during the year, which anyone can attend, and noted that at -these hearings, the Commission goes over every expenditure by every department line by line - chairs, tables, personnel, etc. He believed some of the Commissioners still have specific items where they feel more cuts could be made. Mr. Margel stated that the public does"not want the County to spend this extra $500,000, and he then made an impassioned speech about high assessments. William Friesell of Live Oak road felt the basic problem goes back to 1979 when the County got a windfall and did not cut the millage commensurate with the gain.He wished to know if anyone has taken the State to task for all the mandated expenditures imposed on the"counties. Finance Officer Barton confirmed that the State mandates programs we must fund, and we have made great efforts to reason with the State on this issue. It was noted that one other factor affecting the situation is the increase in the Homestead Exemption which has shifted the burden of the taxes onto those who have a higher value property and an additional factor is that the \ � State used to pay back to the.counties the amount of money lost through Homestead Exemptions, but they do not do this any more; so, this loss of revenue has to be made up from other sources. In discussion it was felt we have lost about $700,000 or $800,000 through Homestead Exemptions. William Stevenson stated that the Commission devises budgets to get what they need and plays musical chairs with 4 the taxpayers' money. He commented that we had a revolution in this country in 1776 because of taxation, and continued that the government has got to start to budget not what they want, but to work with what they have and make the budget fit their means. Frederick Luippold complained that tax dollars are taken from the citizens and expended as the government sees fit. He noted that the Homestead Exemption was intended to benefit those who live here the year around, and felt the rich who live here only part of the time do not pay their fair share of the taxes. He continued that people who have money get what they want, and the governing body sitting before the people tonight will get what they want. Mr. Luippold urged the public to stand up and stop this and do it now. He did not want to hear the talk about inflation and better roads, better schools, etc., but wanted the public to tell the Commission they want taxes down now. Mr. Margel reiterated that he wished to see a breakdown of all figures, and he was supplied with a print-out. Werner Sowatka of 46th Avenue informed the Board that he retired and came down here in 1970 and has been reassessed seven times since, his assessment jumping progressively from $13,000 upwards until now it is $52,000. He asked why the Board could not cut down on salaries and wages, etc., because people such as he who must live on $5,000 or $6,000 a year cannot afford these taxes, and people are dissatisfied with this "rip-off" town. Mr. Mason of 80th Avenue wished to know why it is that when somebody sells a piece of property on the river everyone's property in that area is hiked way up even if they don't live on the river. The Chairman suggested Mr. Mason appeal his assessment, and Mr. Mason wished to know if the Board does not have authority over the Property Appraiser. It was explained to him that the Property Appraiser is a Constitutional Officer; he sets the values 5 OCT 2 1991 9 BOOR .4 7 PAGE �c�� �b OCT 29 1981 OK 4 7 PnE 859 and he is legislated by the State not the County Commission, which has no authority over the Property Appraiser. A lady in the audience objected to houses in a neighborhood being appraised at the same value that a house in that area is sold for when she did not want to sell her house. Various other people also objected to their values being raised when houses in the neighborhood sell for higher values. It was again emphasized that the Board has no control over the assessments made by the Property Appraiser, and the rules by which the Property Appraiser makes the assessments are set by the Department of Revenue William Koolage stated that it was disheartening to him to come in tonight and see the amount of misinformation that is in the hands of the public. Mr. Koolage emphasized that any talk about assessments is irrelevant and the spending is what is important. He noted that Commissioner Scurlock had mentioned that he had some ideas in regard to cutting down on spending, and this is what Mr. Koolage wished to hear. Chairman Lyons noted that one thing that has already happened is that the tax bill as presented in the T.R.I.M. notice has decreased as a result of actions between the time it went out and the present time. Earl Sparks addressed all present, stating that the people in California are in better shape financially now that they ever were because of Proposition 13, and the quicker we get started on Proposition 13 in Florida, the better off the citizens will be. Ed Miller complained about being reassessed and jumped up about 45% and then being reassessed for another $5,000. He stated that he was lead to believe that once the County set up a budget and figured the dollars they would collect, the millage rate was supposed to go down as they reassessed. He noted that his taxes have doubled, and he wished to know C t I r I what happened to the extra money when all the property was reassessed last year. Chairman Lyons pointed out that for one thing the cost of everything we have to do business with went up; we got less money from other sources than we had before; personnel costs went up from wage increases; and in addition, we are losing revenue because of the additional homestead exemption. Commissioner Wodtke explained to those present that the Commission's answers tonight might not jibe with a person's increase in taxes because the Commission only collects the dollars for what we budget and does not govern the taxes collected by other Districts, such as the School Board or Hospital District. Considerable forceful argument continued about the amount of taxes collected last -year, and it was noted that at this time we are only discussing one fund in the County budget. Finance officer Barton explained that the total collected expenditures last year for the General Fund was $7,358,000 of which $4,410,000, or about 55%, was from ad valorem taxes. He continued that there are 26 entities in the County besides the County Commission with the authority to levy taxes in the county. The number of these entities you pay taxes to depends on where you live. There is one new taxing entity corning into being this year, the Gifford Street Lighting District, but unless you live in that specific area in Gifford, you do not pay that tax. The 27 taxing authorities are asking for 29 million, or a 5.9 million increase in ad valorem dollars. Number one on the list asking for this increase is the School Board, which is asking for 2.34 million of the 5.9. He suggested those present also attend the School Board's budget hearing. Last year the Hospital District did not assess a millage, and this year they are asking for 1.72 million. 7 BOOK 4 7 PACE 860 I OCT 29 1991 Boa 4 7 PACE 861 Jan Lathem questioned an item on her T.R.I.M. notice marked "Other" which has gone up 200%, and Finance Director Barton explained that the biggest item in that category is the Hospital District. Also listed under the category called "Other" are such entities as the St. John's Water Management District, Mosquito Control District, etc. Al Flynn noted that the ad valorem collection for 1979 was 17 million from all taxing bodies. If you compare that with the actual 1980 ad valorem collection, there was a 33% increase; however, if you take 1979 and go to the 1981 projection and look at the difference, the total increase is 67.25%. Chairman Lyons pointed out that we are addressing only one part of the total taxes collected, and Mr. Flynn realized that but felt the public must be concerned. The Finance Officer suggested to those present that they attend every public hearing held by the entities that levy the taxes. Commissioner Scurlock requested that the Board refer to Page 30 which is the Board of County Commission operations. Mr. Barton noted that the proposed expenditures for this year are $213,800, and Commissioner Wodtke wished to know the total dollar reductions made in these figures since the T.R.I.M. notices were sent out. County Administrator Nelson informed those present that he was given guidance to keep any increase under 10%. He reported that 'they looked at projected revenues and expenses and interviewed every department head individually as to their costs last year and their objectives for the coming year. Mr. Nelson emphasized that they did not increase any services, but tried to maintain the same service we are giving right now even though in many areas these services are not as adequate as we would like to see especially since we must consider the increase in county population. He reported that they went back over their 3 budget three times, and the Federal Revenue sharing Fund was cut back over $118,000; the General Services fund was reduced by $161,000, and the Municipal Services fund was reduced by $366,000, or a total cutback of over $500,000. Finance Officer Barton then explained what has happened in regard to Workmen's Compensation and medical insurance, etc., which is part of the fringe benefit package that most job places offer their employees, noting that the State increased the mandatory pay -in to the State Retirement Fund by 20%. The Health Care package increased 50%, and we still are negotiating and trying to cut this down. Workmen's Compensation is a percentage of payroll, and our accident rate went higher than it should, so we are paying 173% of standard rates. We, therefore, are budgeting for a saftey supervisor to train workers. Commissioner Scurlock questioned the $20,000 budgeted for legal expense since we are in the process of adding our own legal staff instead of contracting for legal services as we do presently. It was explained that this relates to the five lawsuits in which we are presently involved and have hired outside legal counsel to represent us. Commissioner Scurlock explained to the public that that 9.5% salary increase given County personnel to try to keep up with cost of living increases was based on increases around our general area. An old gentleman in the audience commented that when politicians don't want to do anything, they invent something to confuse the people - let's get rid of the politicians. Another gentleman commented that you can make figures say anything you want to, and he did not believe what was being said about reductions. They cut back but then they reassess and raise values. Commissioner Bird felt the longer we are here and throw figures around, the more confused people become. He believed from what he has heard that a big part of the OCT P_ 91991 9 BOOK 47 PAGE862 OCT 29 1981 Boa 4 7 FAGS 863 problem is in the assessments, over which the Board has no control. Whether we like it or not, properties in Indian River County have skyrocketed over the last few years, and if your neighbor happens to sell his house at an' inflated price, the Property Appraiser is mandated.. to assess comparable surrounding houses at that same value. That is what is happening, and it is unfortunate that if you don't choose.to sell, your value goes up regardless. Commissioner Bird continued that when the Board sat down last summer in budget hearings, our Administrator came to us with a total budget, which he felt was a lean budget, but we went through it line by line and cut that budget drastically and we have asked him to reduce it again and again. This is a high quality county, and we have to try to keep the level of service the people deserve and demand. Commissioner Bird believed we have come down to -a level where we are simply maintaining our level of service, but everything costs more - equipment, gas, etc. The Board is telling the public that in this particular fund, the General Fund, they are proposing to spend about 10% more than last year, and he felt that is a reasonable increase. Albert Violin felt the people's message should have gotten through by now. Don't go to the department heads and ask them what they want to spend - tell them what amount they have available to spend. We must spend only what is coming in and not raise taxes to meet the budget. Commissioner Scurlock discussed Other Professional Services, and Finance Officer Barton explained this year it is proposed at $115,000; last year it was $90,400. This is pro -rating to January with the new attorney and we have a remaining contract with the present firm. The amount projected under Supervisor of Elections for conducting elections is less this year because we do not have as many elections. s 10 General Health this year is $387,000 and last year was $313,000. It was explained this includes the Humane Society, Visiting Nurses, Mental Health, Spouse Abuse, Alco -Hope, Sheltered Workshop, and the County Health Department. With the last we have no choice - last year it was $150,000, and this year it is $200,000, and whatever the bill is, we have to pay it. Commissioner Scurlock next. discussed the County Commission's contribution to the YMCA swim program which is for all 5th graders. He personally did not want to cut that item and noted that we pick up a portion of the costs and the School provides buses and gas. For the Library last year the budget was $110,450, and this year it is proposed for $110,000. The contribution to the State Forestry Service was $3,000 last year and the same this year. The contribution to the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council has increased $5,000, and Commissioner Scurlock had no opposition to that; -there is an existing intergovernmental contract to pay the Regional Planning Council based on population. Commissioner Scurlock felt possibly we could cut back on the funds for the Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Luippold noted that the Commission is talking about small amounts and that is not the way his taxes have gone up. He urged that the Commission just take the revenue that is coming in and cut up the pie proportionately. Commissioner Scurlock noted that the Board is trying to balance the level of services the people want with what we have to pay, and that is why we are reviewing the budget line by line. He asked if the people want a library, a humane society, etc., etc. Loud discussion ensued in the audience. The Board reverted back to a discussion of the Chamber of Commerce, and Chairman Lyons stated that he would vote not to fund them. Commissioner Fletcher agreed, noting that 11 0 C T 2f' 1981 Bou 47 PAGE 864 � �o� F�,r � 1 OCT 2 9 1901 o� 5 they had been warned that they would be weaned slowly, and he would like to see them removed from the budget. Commissioner Wodtke commented that the Chamber has contributed a vital service to the county, particularly in the consumer affairs department, and he hoped the Chamber could continue to keep up their level of service without.the County's contribution. On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Fletcher, Commissioners Wodtke and Bird voted in opposition, the Board deleted the Chamber of Commerce funding from the budget. Sam Carpenter realized the Commission members are not solely responsible for all the taxation burden laid upon the public, but informed the Board that he has interviewed over 100 people in the last two weeks and all agreed taxes must come down. He urged that the Board set a percentage and cut that percentage from the budget which would relieve them of the wrath of the majority of the taxpayers and then the people can approach the legislature later and make their feelings known about programs that are mandated and not funded. Chairman Lyons asked what percentage of the millage we have cut out since the T.R.I.M. notice went out, and the Finance Officer answered that it would be 3/4 of 1% in this particular fund. Discussion continued -as to what percentage of decrease in the budget would satisfy the public, and William Koolage felt the people would be willing to settle for an 11% increase. Commissioner Scurlock pointed out that it is somewhat more complicated than that since we received $800,000 from other than ad valorem taxes last year that we will not receive this year due mainly to the change in Homestead Exemption, and this is an element that must be considered. 12 The audience was not sympathetic to this explanation, pointing out that the Board was aware of this before developing the budget and should have cut back accordingly. The -problem of maintaining the same level of services was brought up, and the audience responded that they should be cut back. James Councilman spoke in favor of cutting any increase off at 11%. He believed the Board would encounter less wrath by cutting services than by raising taxes. He stated that all present should go to the School Board and the Hospital District and say the same things. Ms. Radcliff was in favor of drownproofing children, but questioned a cost of $11,000 to teach 600 children how to swim. She was informed that is what the YMCA has said they would be willing to take to make their facility available for this purpose. Paul Margel wanted to eliminate Alco -Hope, the drown -proofing program, the Sheltered Workshop, and Spouse Abuse. Another gentleman in the audience disagreed with eliminating Alco -Hope because people who drink pay taxes on whiskey. Heated comment continued in the audience in regard to going after the State regarding mandated programs and again urging that the Commission set a percentage of decrease to be cut from the Budget. Commissioner Scurlock noted that it is easy to come up with a percentage, but it is hard to make the decisions about not grading roads, etc. Specific figures and percentages were discussed, and it was felt the increase in the General Fund is actually only 70 or 8%. Commissioner Wodtke once again explained that because we have less revenue, we need more tax dollars; however, we have additional new construction that also will be paying tax dollars, and when you consider all these facts, the percentage increase for last year's taxpayers is 13 1 TA -Mi a 0 Boa 47 PAGE 866 OCT 291991 BOOP( 47 P E 867 11.6% in this fund even though we are spending only 8% more in the fund. Jim Councilman contended that the vast majority of the people in the county are willing to sacrifice some service in order for their taxes not to get to the point where they have difficulty paying them. Paul Margel commented that he had made four suggestions about cutting out Alco -Hope, the drownproofing program, Spouse Abuse, and the Sheltered Workshop, and he had received no answer. Commissioner Scurlock stated the only one he had considered cutting out was Spouse Abuse, but after visiting and spending some hours learning about the program, he was convinced it was a necessity. The other Commissioners agreed, but the audience did not feel this program should be their responsibility. A gentleman in the audience commented that he has been told that figures don't lie, but they do and it has been amply demonstrated tonight. Chairman Lyons commented that those present are not the only members of the public we listen to; everyone is welcome to attend the budget hearings and make their feelings known at that time. He suggested that the public do just that. The Chairman called for a short recess at 7:30 P.M. The Board of County Commissioners reconvened at 7:45 P.M. and resumed their review of the Budget line by line. It was noted that Medicaid„and the nursing home are mandated programs. Finance Officer Barton explained that the $45,000 and $67,000 projected are just an estimate based on past history; we are responsible for paying 25% of the bill when it is presented by the State. The Board of County Commissioner's contingency fund next came up, and it was explained that this is necessary because we do not begin receiving tax dollars immediately. Past contingency funds were close to one million dollars, and now we are down the $776,000. We are going into our 14 reserve fund and carrying less reserve rather than passing this on in additional taxes. The 911 program was next reviewed and the public was informed that we have a signed contract telling the telephone company to proceed and also agreements with the City of Vero Beach and the other municipalities. Under Administrative Operations, it was noted there is a $14,000 increase in the salary account, and Mr. Barton believed that this relates to positions which don't exist right now but will be needed when we move into the new administrative building, i.e., a central switchboard operator and a central mailroom operator. As to life and health insurance, Mr. Barton confirmed that he has been negotiating with the company to get costs down on the health care package and is still not satisfied; however, we must have a figure for this in the budget. Once the final figure is determined, it will be prorated into the proper departments. In further discussion, it was felt that possibly employees should be required to share in the cost of family policies. It was noted that there is an additional $15,000 allowed for a safety engineer to institute a safety program and hopefully cut down on insurance costs. Commissioner Fletcher inquired about personnel this year as compared to last year, and Personnel Director Hardin reported that the County had 187 employees at the start of the year. We will have 35 additional people this year. The Parks Division and its maintenance personnel have been separated from the Road & Bridge Department, and accordingly the Road & Bridge Department needs more people. We also have an engineering division this year which we have not had in prior years, which will consist of 5 people. Most of the other are 6 month people who would come on later to help in OCT 15 BOOK 4 7 .PAGE 868 2 91991 ® CT 2 91981 e00K 47 F, G, 869 the Planning Department, a mail clerk, a risk management specialist, a service officer with the Veterans group, and an assistant Civil Defense Director. In addition, it is now believed that the County can operate our own janitorial service cheaper than paying an outside janitorial service $70,000 annually. This would require an additional seven people. Commissioner Fletcher believed that when we go in-house for janitorial services, while we might save money now, it might cost more in the long run because of the continuing increase in wages and fringes. Personnel Director Harden stated that from past experience, he has learned that you can always do better in-house; you have more control over your people and less theft and also can use them in other areas such as security. Discussion ensued as to whether the Veterans Service Office has a need for a third employee. It was noted that the base pay is over $9,000 plus fringe benefits. Members of the audience felt this position should be eliminated, and Paul Margel stated that these public hearings are held merely to give the public the illusion that the people have a say. Commissioner Wodtke commented that in April of 1981, we had a veteran population of over 20,000, but a gentleman in the audience noted that they are cutting back on this service in Palm Beach, and we felt we should cut back here also. He did not believe the Veterans Service officers are overworked. After further discussion, it was agreed to cut out the third person for the Veterans Service Office tentatively and allow Veteran Service officer Jerry Cook a chance to come in and justify the need for additional personnel in his department. The assistant director for Civil Defense was the next item to be considered, and Commissioner Wodtke reported that 16 actually this department consists of only the Civil Defense Director and a secretary, and he felt based upon the requirements put on that department and the plans they are doing in house for hurricane evacuation, nuclear disaster, etc.that the additional personnel is justified. He noted that the State pays half the salary. A lady in the audience stated that the federal government is formulating an evacuation plan that will become available to everyone. Mr. Barton informed her that actually the federal government has asked the local governments to prepare these plans, and then they package .them and call the package by another name. Discussion continued further re the need for an assistant Civil Defense Director. Commission Fletcher felt we have to cut back somewhere and he believed this department can be handled with the same staff. The possibility of a volunteer was brought up, and it was noted that there a large number of volunteers presently working in this area. Commissioner Wodtke pointed out that it is important to be prepared when you do have a disaster. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher to delete the new person in Civil Defense from the budget. The Motion died for lack of a second. Commissioner Scurlock noted that in the Parks Department there was a reduction in the salary account of $23,000, and he had thought we were adding people. Personnel Director Hardin explained that originally three people were scheduled; but this was cut back to one person on a half time basis, and the Gifford Park is part of this. Motion made by Comiriissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, to delete from the budget the additional personnel for the Parks Department for this year. The Chairman called for the question. It was voted on and defeated with Commissioners Bird, Wodtke, and Chairman Lyons voting in opposition. 17 0 CT 429 1991 Bbox 47 PAGE 870 I � I OCT 2.919 91 In regard to the Welfare Department, it was noted that this is a mandated program. L. D. Jacobs took the floor and quoted Milton Freidman as stating that 30-35% of all workers in city, county and federal government are not needed; that actually this is just another form of welfare. He commented that possibly Indian River County has only 20% drones and urged that if somebody quits, for instance, just don't replace them. Charles Caldwell felt stated that in regard to property taxes, he felt like the tom cat having an affair with a skunk; he had enjoyed about all he could stand. Mr. Caldwell urged that the Commission cut down wherever possible. Discussion next ensued re the Agricultural Extension Department,, and Commissioner Scurlock wondered if fees could be charged for some of the courses offered. He believed the activities for the agricultural industry and the 4-H program are very worthwhile, but did not feel the taxpayer should have to pay for people to participate in a weight reducing program. Administrator Nelson commented that they have deleted half a position, and this is status quo. The large travel budget for this department was then reviewed and it was noted that this has doubled this year from $800 to $1600. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, to adjust the line item for travel for the Agricultural Extension Department from $1600 to $800. Discussion continued re the fact that travel expense has been exceeding $800 in previous years and a great deal of this is concerned with the 4 -Hers through the agricultural program. Commissioner Wodtke suggested that the travel budget be reduced to $1000 rather than $800, and Commissioners Fletcher and Scurlock agreed to this amount and amended their Motion accordingly. It was voted on and 18 �Y carried unanimously. The possibility of taking an amount out of the County's total travel allotment next came up, and Finance Officer Barton commented that the per diem has increased by State mandate; the Board of County Commissioners has $5,000 travel expense and this has jumped up tremendously in the last few years due to lobbying in Tallahassee and trips to Atlanta on bond issues, etc. The Youth Guidance Program was reviewed, and it was noted that the United Fund contributes towards this activity which helps those who are in trouble, and a lot is done by volunteers. It was further noted that this program is an off -shoot of the courts rather than just an educational program. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, to delete the one additional employee projected in the budget. The Assistant Administrator David Greene explained that the increased amount is not for an employee, it is a salary adjustment - Mrs. Sauerman who was making $12,000-$13,000 a year had a job reclassification to bring her in line with her skill level since she does have a Master's Degree and she also works many hours in excess of the regular work week. Her salary has been adjusted up to about $17,000 and this actually should have been done gradually over the years. He noted that Mrs. Sauerman's performance has been outstanding. Commissioners Fletcher and Scurlock withdrew their Motion which was based on incorrect information. Commissioner Scurlock noted that we had a termination in the Purchasing Department which he felt would have affected seniority, and asked if the Director of Materials Management was replaced at the same salary. The Administrator informed him that Mrs. Goodrich who replaced the Director was placed in the same pay grade, but at the 19 BOOK 47 PAGE 872 OCT 29 1981 OCT 29 7991 86oK 4 7 FF,,E 873 bottom of the scale. Mrs. Goodrich moved into Mr. Flynn's position and someone moved into her former job. The total number of employees in the department remains the same, but there is one new position budgeted for. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher to delete the new employee, if there is one. It was explained that this would be a perpetual inventory clerk who must physically count and view the entire inventory each year and reconcile this for the auditors. It was agreed this is a, necessary position, and the Motion died for lack of a second. Under the category of Building Operations, the subject of janitorial service again came up. Personnel Director Hardin again reviewed the contract figures which were based on 6� per sq. ft., and felt by going in-house, we could save $23,000, plus the advantage of also being able to utilize this personnel in security positions. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher to delete the janitorial personnel and remain with the contract. The Motion died for lack of a second. The Board next reviewed Clerk to the Board and commented that the Finance and Data Processing Departments went from $325,000 to $412,000. Finance Officer Barton noted that they have received the new computer which they were authorized to upgrade, and they are offering services on data processing for other Constitutional Officers and are saving money from the viewpoint of the state mandated audits for all offices Costs of audits were reviewed, and Mr. Barton stated that the total contract for the audits is $59,500 per year and this is required by Statute. We are fortunate that we had a three-year contract of which we now are in the last year. 20 The Chairman asked what we save by being on one system, and Mr. Barton explained that if we can cut down the time the auditor has to spend searching, it saves money. - Finance Officer Barton commented that data processing is now charging out to other departments for services, such as utilities and the landfill. Commissioner Wodtke noted that $417,000 is about $23,000 more than the original proposed budget for this department, and Finance Officer Barton explained that they forgot part of the fringe benefit package previously. It was noted that the budget for the Clerk of the Circuit Court went from $525,000 to $595,000, and the Board has no option except to pay the bill or let the Clerk go back.to being a fee officer. The Commission briefly reviewed the budgets for the Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, the Supervisor of Elections, and the Sheriff, whose budget actually is located in three places and is up $875,000 over last year. Finance Officer Barton reviewed the Circuit Court item, explaining that this includes the Judges and the cost we have to pay on behalf of indigents and for expert witnesses. This is mandated, and County Court is the same to a lesser degree. We also are mandated by law to provide the State Attorney with space and a portion of his office expense, as well as the Public Defender. He further noted that it is the responsibility of the Board of County Commissioners to pay for the transcribing of any criminal trial where an appeal is being made: The bill for the Chandler trial alone which was just completed was $13,000. Mr. Barton noted that we only have projected $15,000 for this year and actually have no idea of what will be required. The amount budgeted for County Jail is just for maintenance, not renovation, and the Medical Examiner is State mandated. This concludes the General Fund. 21 800x 47 PAGE874 0CT 291981 OCT 29 1981 7 Pn- 875 The Board discussed having a Motion on this fund, and Finance Officer Barton noted that we have to put a 1/4 page ad in the paper disclosing the increase over rollback. Attorney Collins advised that the Board can advertise the percentages that Jeff has figured out now and reduce them at the final hearing, but they cannot be increased after they are advertised. Finance Officer Barton stated that over $500,000 has been cut from the budget since the T.R.I.M. notice was sent out. He then went on to review the Transportation Fund, which is the collector system of roads, or the old secondary road system. There are no employees in that fund. This is 20% of the 5th and 6th cent gas tax and all of the 7th. There are $100 ad valorem taxes projected since the Statute requires that you must assess this millage. The 1959 Hospital Bond Issue, is the outstanding general obligation bond issue from the old County hospital, which we assumed. The Budgets just reviewed are summarized on the following data sheet: 22 ESTIMATED RECEIPTS & BALANCES Federal Sources ' State Sources Local Sources Ad Valorem Taxes sub total less 5% per F.S.129.01(2)(b) Net Cash Balance Forward 10/1/81 Total Estimated Receipts and Balances APPROPRIATIONS Legislative Executive Financial and Administrative Legal Counsel - Comprehensive Planning Judical Other General Government Law Enforcement Fire Control Detention and Correction Protective Services Emergency and Disaster Relief Services Ambulance and Rescue Services Medical Examiner Garbage/Solid Waste Disposal Conservation and Resources Management Road and Street Facilities Veteran's Services Health Mental Health Welfare Other Human Services Libraries Parks and Recreation Interfund Transfers Total Appropriations Reserve for Contingencies Cash Forward 9/30/82 Total Budget GENERAL FUND INDIAN RIVER COUNTY TAXING AUTHORITIES PROPOSED BUDGET FOR.FY 81-82 TRANSPORTATION FUND 1959 HOSPITAL I & S FUND MUNICIPAL SERVICE FUND . cc 11�W TOTAL $ 9,000 $ $ $ $ 9,000 442,015 525,000. 302,110 1,269,125 b 1,046,350 31,250 9,000 2,060,130 3,146,730 QO 5,300,000 100• 85,100 1,711,550 7 09b 750 6397,365 556,350 9T,100 4,073,790 11,521, 05 (339,869) (27,818) (4,705) (203,69o) (576,02) 6,457,496 528,532 89,395 3,870,100 10,9 5,523 1,541,570 431,978 64 097 1,767,020 3,804,665 7,999,0 9 0,510 153, 92 $5,637,120 $14,750,188 213,841 247,014 1,461,477 115,000 27,585 732,211 813,493 2,466,849, 46,617 63,222 35,000 67,194 50,204 . 50,000 127,608 188,211 200,000 110,000 216,662 7,432 239,620 439,446 320,000 737,930 737,930 53,700 168.88o 52,534 5 53 100,958 75,000 202,710 572,627 880,835 4,098 115,275 33,500 258,078 2,502,645 7,000 169,082 641,270 175,000 7,999,066 S 960,510 213,841 247,014 1,589,011 115,000 230,295 732,211 1,386,120 3,347,684 4,098 46,617 115,275 63,222 33,500 35,000 258,078 67,194 3,240,575 50,204 50,000 r 127,608 M 195,211 200,000 �2 110,000 385,744 7,432 0,93 12- 1,235,374 663.880 r OCT 291981 BOOK The Finance Officer next explained the enterprise funds noting that these are budget only. These are funds in which the users pay for the service and they do not involve ad valorem taxes. He then read the projected budget figures for the Sanitary Landfill, the South County Utilities, North County Utilities, Vista Royale Utilities, and Pebble Bay Utilities, which has $14,050 revenues and $244,035 expenses, and on which there will have to be an assessment to take the system out of business. These are set out on the following page: 24 1 1 I REVENUES: USER FEES CASH CARRY FORWARD.10-01-81 TOTAL REVENUES EXPENSES: WATER UTILITY SERVICES GARBAGE / SOLID WASTE WATER SEWER COMBINATION SERVICES REVENUE FOR CONTINGENCIES TOTAL EXPENSES INDIAN RIVER COUNTY ENTERPRISE FUNDS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 81-82 SANITARY SOUTH COUN'T'Y NORTH COUNTY VISTA ROYALE PEBBLE BAY LANDFILL UTILITIES UTILITIES UTILITIES UTILITIES $783,751 $340,175 $267,200 $99,700 $14,050 249,771 $1,033,522 $340,175 $267,200 $99,700 $14,050 $901F835 $298,184 $224,571 $46,810 $244,035 131,687 41,991 42,629 52,890 $1,033,522 $340,17.5 $267,200 $99,700 $244,035 Ln N BOOK OCT 29 1981 4 7 PAF 879 Finance Officer Barton then reviewed the proposed budgets for the non -taxing authorities - Secondary Road Trust Fund, Federal Revenue Sharing, 1980 bond issue, Sec. 8 Housing Authority, etc., as set out on the following page, explaining that the Section 8 Housing Authority is an' unbalanced fund, and the commission had agreed to lend them money to balance the fund. 26 1 REVENUES: Federal Sources State Sources Local Sources Cash Carry Fwd. 10/1/81 Total Revenue EXPENSES: Executive Financial and Administrative Comprehensive Planning Emergency and Disaster Relief Garbage/Solid Waste Disposal Water -Sewer Combination Serv. Housing and Urban Development Welfare Other Human'Services Parks and Recreation lnterfund Transfers Road and Street Facilities Water Utility Service Other General Government Law Enforcement Reserve for Contingencies Total Expenses *The difference between the totals is a loan from General Fund 00 00 SOUTH BEACH WATER DISTRICT 0 0 w 12,000 $1,533,510 $825,633 $446,500 $266,531" $83,700 $38,000 $20,000 $11,000 $12,000 1,000 1,500 1,579 14,000 446,500 64,744 233;900 4,000 83,700 77,355 1,533,510 436,747 12,000 63,425 198,532 38,000 20,000- 31,495 0,00031,495 $1,533,510 $825,633 $446,500 $302,64 3,700 $38,000 $20,000 11,000 $12,000 ca INDIAN RIVER COUNTY NON -TAXING AUTHORITIES PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 81-82 SECONDARY FEDERAL 1980 SECTION 8 IMPACT POLICE SPECIAL SOUTH I.R.C. ROAD REVENUE BOND HOUSING FRANCHISE ACADEMY LAW WATER TAXING TRUST SHARING ISSUE AUTHORITY FEE ENFORCEMENT DISTRICT 604,087 220,559 164,307 446,500 450972 83,700 38,000 20,000 11,000 1.369.203 221.546 00 00 SOUTH BEACH WATER DISTRICT 0 0 w 12,000 $1,533,510 $825,633 $446,500 $266,531" $83,700 $38,000 $20,000 $11,000 $12,000 1,000 1,500 1,579 14,000 446,500 64,744 233;900 4,000 83,700 77,355 1,533,510 436,747 12,000 63,425 198,532 38,000 20,000- 31,495 0,00031,495 $1,533,510 $825,633 $446,500 $302,64 3,700 $38,000 $20,000 11,000 $12,000 ca r OCT 29 1981 ooK � F F881 This concludes all the County wide and non taxing funds budgets. Finance Officer Barton discussed the millage rate for the -1959 bond issue and noted that 0.04266 was the tentative figure. He did not know how to work out rollback on this because the interest and principal jumps around, but reported that this is up considerably over last year because of the principal payments which were due; it is close to a $30,000 increase. This is the last year we will assess taxes to pay for this particular bond issue. On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Bird, the Board adopted the tentative millage rate for the following funds for the fiscal year 1981-82 as listed: General Fund 2.65704 Transportation Fund 0.00001 1959 Bond Issue 0.04266 On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Wodtke, the Board unanimously adopted the Tentative budgets for the following accounts for the fiscal year 1981-82 as listed: General Fund $7,999,066 Transportation Fund 960,510 1959 Bond Issue 153,492 Enterprise Accounts Sanitary Landfill $1,033,522 South County Utilities 340,175 North County Utilities 267,200 Vista Royale Utilities 99,700 Pebble Bay Utilities 244,035 Non -Taxing Funds Secondary Road Trust $1,533,510 Federal Revenue Sharing 825,633 1980 Bond Issue 446,500 Sec. 8 Housing Authority 302,644 Impact Franchise Fee 83,700 Police Academy 38,000 Spec. Law Enforcement 20,000 South Indian River County Water Taxing Dist. 11,000 South Beach Water Taxing Dist. 12,000 W I L- I The Finance Officer next reviewed the Multi Purpose Municipal Service Fund stating that the total proposed budget is $5,637,120, with a proposed millage of 1.67245, which is a 9.75% increase over rollback. Commissioner Bird noted that last year during the summer, the Commission received an emergency request from the Association of Retarded People for funds for summer camp, and they came back this year to try to be placed in our budget on a permanent basis. This came up before the Parks and Recreation Committee several weeks ago, and it was recommended by the Committee that $4,000 be budgeted to assist in funding the Association's Summer Camp Program for 1982. Commissioner Scurlock stated that he supported this the first time and will support it again. Commissioner Wodtke commented that we could reduce $4,000 out of our recreation fund, and Commissioner Fletcher stated that he could support that, but not adding an additional $4,000. Commissioner Bird pointed out that we are spending .about $200,000 for the entire county and $4,000 would represent 5% of that which is below the national average. Discussion continued on ways to fund this item and Chairman Lyons suggested that we take it out of the Recreation Budget and reduce the reserve. Commissioner Wodtke stated that he would go along with that this year, but felt it should be made a part of the budget in the future. . On Motion by Commissioner Bird, seconded by Commissioner Wodtke, the Board unanimously agreed to add $4,000 to the Recreation Budget for the Retarded Citizens Summer Camp Program for the summer of 1982 to be taken from the reserve account. The Board next discussed revenue received from mobile homeowners, and Commissioner Scurlock stated that he would 29 OCT 291981 Boos 47 PAGE 882 I OCT 29 1981 BOOK 47 ur,F 883 have hoped we could have done something with the Zoning fee structure. Growth is increasing demands, and in lieu of impact fees, a new measure would be that we look to new development generate some additional revenues to address some of these problems. He felt we should address the fee structure. Finance Officer Barton agreed and felt this should be done this year and gotten in place before March. He noted there is a difference between the fees charged by the City and the County; the County's being less, and at present we contract with the City for services. Chairman Lyons suggested that we adopt the Vero Beach fee system, which he believed is about loo higher, and the Board agreed we should proceed in this direction. Commissioner Wodtke felt we need to look at other counties' occupational licenses and fee structure. He noted that the City's occupational license fees are much higher than the County's. Commissioner Scurlock discussed the County Engineer and noted that we eliminated a whole department and combined them and now we have a Public Works i Department. We had a reduction of $117,000 and when we combined, we picked up $101,000, a difference of $16,000, which he did not understand. He asked if there are any new positions. Administrator Nelson stated that actually there are three positions less than the ten originally proposed. Last year we did not have a county engineer - now we also want a survey team and a rodman, and the traffic engineer is another part of the group. Commissioner Scurlock continued to review the total personnel in Public Works now, and Assistant Administrator Greene explained that we took engineering and public works and combined them, ending up with a net reduction of two employees. Originally two secretaries were proposed; one 30 has been deleted, and there has been an upgrading of the engineer's position and an upgrading of a surveyor position. The Board reviewed the item for "Other Professional Services" and it was hoped that when the new personnel get on line some of this expense for outside services can be dropped back. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher to delete the rodman. The Motion died for lack of a -second. Commissioner Fletcher asked how many people are working on vehicle maintenance now and how many are anticipated at the end of the year. Mr. Hardin informed him there are 14 now, and we want to add a diesel mechanic. Commissioner Fletcher wished to know how many people are in the County Planning Deparment now and how many planned for. Mr. Hardin stated there are 8 at present and they plan to add one more. Zoning has five people and are asking for one more. Both of these are part year positions. Motion was made by Commissioner Fletcher that both positions be deleted until such time as the fee structure is set so we can afford them. The Motion died for lack of a second. Administrator Nelson reviewed the Road & Bridge Department and commented that they have spent $35,000 this year on culvert and lowered their request to $28,000; bridge material and supplies have been reduced to $40,000 which is less than was spent for this year; they are projecting less for fuel than was spent this year; there was an $150,000 reduction overall, and .the Administrator felt this budget is down to the bare bones. Discussion arose about an item for uniforms, and it was felt this is a bad year to .start this practice. The Administrator explained that they are trying to dress up that crew to build a little pride and get a better work force. It was noted that City employees pay $1.00 per week 31 BOOK 47 PAGE 884 OCT 29 1981 BOOK 4 7 UGE towards uniforms, and the City subsidizes the remaining $2.50. On Motion by Commissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, the Board unanimously instructed the Administrator to figure participation on a 2/3 to 1/3 basis for uniforms as discussed, thereby deleting 1/3 of the amount allowed in the budget for this purpose. On Motion by Commissioner Bird, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, the Board unanimously set a tentative millage cap for the Multi Purpose Municipal Services Fund of 1.67245 for the fiscal year 1981-82. On Motion by Commissioner Wodtke, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, the Board unanimously approved a Tentative Budget of $5,637,120 for the Multi Purpose Municipal services Fund for the fiscal year 1981-82. The Board of County Commissioners recessed at 10:45 P.M. in order for the District Board of Fire Commissioners of the South Indian River County Fire District to convene. Those Minutes will be prepared separately. The Board of County Commissioners reconvened at 10:50 P.M. with the same members present and immediately recessed in order for the District Board of Fire Commissioners of the North Indian River County Fire District to convene. Those Minutes will be prepared separately. The Board of County Commissioners reconvened at 10:52 P.M. with the same members present. The Finance Officer reviewed the millage and budget for the West County Municipal Fire Service Taxing District, noting that the proposed budget is $27,941 and the proposed millage is 0.29590, which is at rollback. On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage of 0.29590 for the West County Municipal Fire Service Taxing District for the fiscal year 1981-82. 32 On Motion by Commissioner Scurlock, seconded by Commissioner Fletcher, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $29.941 for the West County Municipal Fire Service Taxing District for the fiscal year 1981-82. Finance Officer Barton reported that the Laurelwood Street Lighting District has a proposed budget of $5,025, and the tax assessment will be $16.35 per acre or any portion thereof. There is no requirement to advertise rollbacks. On Motion by Commissioner Bird, seconded by Commissioner Scurlock, the Board unanimously approved a Tentative Budget of $5,025 for the Laurelwood Street Lighting District for the fiscal year 1981-82 and an assessment of $16.35 per acre or any portion thereof. Finance Officer Barton next announced that the proposed budget for the Gifford Municipal Service Street Lighting District was $25,004 with a proposed assessment of $12,00 per acre or any portion thereof. On Motion by Commissioner Fletcher, seconded by Commissioner Wodtke, the Board unanimously approved a Tentative Budget of $25,004 for the Gifford Street Lighting District for the fiscal year 1981-82 and an assessment of $12.00 per acre or any portion thereof. The Chairman announced that the Board of County Commissioners would meet as the Board of Supervisors of the 6 Rockridge Subdivision Street Lighting District iiiunediately after adjourning the Commission meeting. Those Minutes will be prepared separately. There being no further business to come before the meeting, on Motion made, seconded and carried, the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 10:59 o'clock P.M. Attest: Clerk OCT 29 1981 33 Uhairman BOOK 47 SAGE6;