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Home My WebLink About9/2/1987TENTATIVE BUDGET HEARING Wednesday, September 2, 1987 The Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County, Florida, met in Special Session at the County Commission Chambers, 1840 25th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, September 2, 1987, at 5:01 o'clock P.M. Present were Don C. Scurlock, Jr., Chairman; Margaret C. Bowman, Vice Chairman; Richard N. Bird; Carolyn K. Eggert; and Gary C. Wheeler. Also present were Charles P. Balczun, County Administrator; Charles P. Vitunac, Attorney to the Board of County Commissioners; Joseph Baird, OMB Director; and Barbara Bonnah, Deputy Clerk. The Chairman called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The Chairman announced that the purpose of this meeting is to consider and adopt the Tentative Budget for fiscal year 1987-,1,88. The public hearing on the Final Budget will be held September 9, 1987, at 5:01 o'clock. He explained to those present the procedure that would be followed during the hearings on the various funds, explaining that it is a pretty involved process with a number of things prescribed by law, and in the proceiss we will review all the taxing funds, which include the Geneal Fund, Transportation Fund, General Purpose MSTU, Beach Acquisition G.O. Bonds, Vero Lakes Estates MSTU, the Fire Districts, and the various Street Lighting Districts and then revi w the budgets for the remaining funds. ,Chairman Scurlock emphasized that we will not be discussing the assessed value of properties as that matter is taken up with the Property Appraiser and the Property Appraisal Adjustment SEP 2 1987 BOOK 69 PAGE 232 t 4r SEP 2 .1987 BOOK 69 ! AGS 2:33 Board, which is comprised of 3 Commissioners and 2 School Board members. Tonight is not the place to discuss that or the question of a lost Homestead Exemption. We would like to hear suggestions for cutting the budget in specific areas rather than general comments about the increase. He noted that the School Board holds a separate budget hearing and adopts their own millage rates. The County has no ability to be involved in that process. The same applies to the Mosquito Control, Drainage, and Hospital Districts. He further noted that if the Board of County Commissioners chooses to object to a constitutional officer's budget, we don't have final approval. The constitutional officers have the right to go to the State for final approval if they wish. OMB Director Joe Baird informed those present that Notice of tonight's meeting has been legally publicized by the TRIM Notice which was mailed to all property owners in the county. Director Baird advised that to fulfill legal requirements, the millage increase over rollback millage must be stated. The first millage quoted will be the aggregate millage, which is arrived at by adding all the ad valorem taxes levied by the governing body for countywide purposes plus the ad valorem taxes levied for all dependent districts divided by the total taxable value of the county. Rollback is the millage rate which is exclusive of ad valorem taxes on new construction and annexations. Director Baird announced that the.proposed aggregate millage of the total overall budget is 4.945, which is a 24% increase over the rollback millage which was 3.9866. The OMB Director then proceeded to review the proposed budgets and millages for the various taxing funds, which are as follows: 2 rC INDIAN RIVER COUNTY TAXING AUTHORITIES GENERAL VERO LAKES cc cc PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 1987-88 PURPOSE ESTATES **..1 MUNICIPAL BEACH MUNICIPAL --- - TRANSPO ATION SERVICE- -ACRUISITION - SERVE -CI_-- - GENERAL FUND FUND TAXING UNIT G.O. BONDS TAXING UNIT TOTA, ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: -------------- --------------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------K - Federal Sources 16,000 0 0 0 0 161000', State Sources 11071,175 682,839 2,4741131 0 0 4,228,145 Local Sources 116105710 100,000 2,589,000 21,000 11000 41321,710 Ad Valorem Taxes 17,468,763 -------------- 0 --------------- 4,455,096 ----------- 11246,335 ----------- 59,700 ----------- 23,229,894 -------------- Sub-Total 20,166,648 782,839 91518,227 11267,335 60,700 31,795,749 Less 5% per F. S. 129.01(2)(b) (11008,332) (39,142) (475,911) (63,367) (3,035) (11589,787) Net 19,1589316 7439697 9,042,316 11203,968 57,665 30,205,962 Transfers 4,411,546 41152,960 61839 0 0 81571,345 Cash Balances Forward October to 1987 1,330,752 ------------- 1,350,000 --------------- 660,000 ----------- 98,494 ----------- 50,000 ----------- 3,489,246 -------------- TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES 24,900,614 6,246,657 99709,155 1,302,462 107,665 42,266,553 APPROPRIATIONS: General Government 5,375,009 200,802 586,051 1,282,462 0 7,444,324 Public Safety 11,821,132 0 1419207 0 0 11,962,339 Physical Environment 774,376 0 71,845 0 0 846,221 Transportation 0 41975,863 72,035 0 91,700 51139,598 Economic Environment 79,715 0 0 0 0 79,715 Human Services 1,142,951 0 0 0 0 11142,951 Culture/Recreation 1,182,243 0 290,517 0 0 1,472,760 Interfund Transfers 11470,188 0 71147,500 0 0 8,6179688 TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS -------------- 21,845,614 --------------- 51176,665 ----------- 8,309,155 ----------- 11282,462 ----------- 91,700 -------------- 36,705,596 ao Reserve for Contingencies 1,630,000 159,992 700,000 20,000 15,965 2,5255957 � Cash Forward - September 30, 1988 19425,000 -------------- 910,000 --------------- 700,000 ----------- 0 ----------- 0 ----------- 31035,000 TOTAL BUDGET 24,900,614 6,246,657 9,709,155 1,302,462 107,665 ------------- 42,266,553 05 Ca Proposed Millage 4.945 mills 2.3730 mills .3528 mills $15.00 Parcel/Acre b rn Rollback Millage 3.9866 mills 1.9429 mills .3610 mills F�► l i l INDIAN RIVER COUNTY FIRE DISTRICTS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 87-88 NORTH COUNTY WEST COUNTY SOUTH COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT FIRE DISTRICT FIRE DISTRICT ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: ------------- ------------- ------------- Local Sources 40,100 11500 201,814 Ad Valorem Taxes 433,262 54,653 4,065,327 Sub-Total ------------- 473,362 ------------- 56,153 ------------- 41267,141 Less 5% per F.S. 129.01(2)(b) (23,669) ------------- (2,808) ------------- (213,357) Net 449,693 53,345 ------------- 49053,784 Cash Forward October 1, 1987 42,527 10,293 600,480 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES 492,220 63,638 41654,264 APPROPRIATIONS AND RESERVES: Fire Control 282,416 623138 3,824,264 TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS 282,416 62,138 3,824,264 Fund Transfers Out 5,000 Reserve for Contingencies 124,804 500 130,000 Cash Forward September 30, 1988 80,000 ------------- 1,000 ------------- 700,000 ------------- TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND RESERVES 492,220 63,638 4,654,264 Proposed Millage 1.000 mills .31228 mills 1.6952 mills Rollback Nillage .4770 mills .30342 mills 1.5810 mills 0 0 c a rn' r" IV C. ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: Ad Valorem Taxes Local Sources Less 5% per F. S. 129.01(2)(b) Sub -Total Contributions Cash Forward October 1, 1987 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES APPROPRIATIONS AND RESERVES: Utilities Professional Fees Advertising Maintenance TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS Reserve for Contingencies Cash Forward -September 30, 1988 TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND RESERVES Proposed Millage (Per Parcel/Acre) up 0 0 rn CID L_ 6 INDIAN RIVER COUNTY STREET LIGHTING DISTRICTS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 87-88 GIFFORD LAURELYOOD ROCKRIDGE VERB HIGHLANDS PORPOISE SINGLE LAUREL COURT TERRA LINDA VERO SHORES IXORA STREET STREET STREET STREET POINT LIGHT STREET STREET STREETSTREET- ----- LIGHTING LIGHTING LIGHTING L16HTING LIGHTS DISTRICT LIGHTING LIGHTING L16HTING LIGHTING DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29,322 6,072 15935 26,725 1,320 0 624 0 6,480 8,280 21550 320 195 2,100 80 0 0 0 100 100 (1,594) (320) (107) (11442) (70) 0 (31) 0 (330) (419) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30,278 6,072 2,023 27,383 1,330 0 593 0 69250 7,961 0 0 0 0 0 828 0 0 0 0 30,270 3,178 2,000 26,751 270 600 1B1 21694 0 0 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 60,556 93250 41023 54,134 11600 1,428 774 21694 6,250 71961 40,067 6,200 11800 34,665 775 500 374 1,541 4,028 5,463 2,000 600 400 4,876 300 200 100 0 500 500 100 100 100 100 50 0 50 300 0 100 0 0 400 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 --------- ---------- r----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42,167 6,900 2,700 39,641 1,125 700 524 1,841 4,528 6,063 4,389 600 300 2,000 125 200 100 1B4 393 546 14,000 11750 1,023 12,493 350 528 150 669 1,329 1,352 --------- ;--------- •------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 60$56 9,250 49023 54,134 11600 11428 774 2,694 6,250 7,961 $9.00 $23.00 $5.00 $12.50 $40.00 N/A $20.00 N/A $30.00 $30.00 0 11 1 1 i INDIAN RIVER COUNTY - OTHER OPERATING FUNDS - PROPOSED FOR FY 87-88 FEDERAL 1985 REF. SECTION 8 HOUSING SECONDARY SPECIAL LAN PISTOL PARKS REVENUE 6 IMPROV. RENTAL AUTHORITY ROADS CONST. ENFORCEMENT PERMITS DEVELOPMENT TOURIST SHARING BONDS ASSISTANCE FUND TRUST FUND FUND FUND FUND TAX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0 ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: 743,493 Federal Sources 0 State Sources 0 Local Sources 0 Less 5% per F. S. 129.01(2)(b) 1,429,357 Transfers 0 Cash Forward October 1, 1987 0 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES 0 APPROPRIATIONS: 81000 General Government 851895 Public Safety 11727,524 Physical Environment 1,000 Transportation 251,000 Economic Environment o� Human Services 0 Culture/Recreation (11850) Interfund Transfers (450) TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS 0 Reserve for Contingencies 0 Cash Forward September 30, 1988 55,000 TOTAL BUDGET 0 0 0 224,461 INDIAN RIVER COUNTY - OTHER OPERATING FUNDS - PROPOSED FOR FY 87-88 FEDERAL 1985 REF. SECTION 8 HOUSING SECONDARY SPECIAL LAN PISTOL PARKS REVENUE 6 IMPROV. RENTAL AUTHORITY ROADS CONST. ENFORCEMENT PERMITS DEVELOPMENT TOURIST SHARING BONDS ASSISTANCE FUND TRUST FUND FUND FUND FUND TAX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0 0 743,493 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,429,357 0 0 731,000 0 0 0 0 81000 0 851895 13,795 11727,524 37,000 1,000 91000 251,000 (400) (71,46B) 0 0 (122,926) (11850) (50) (450) (12,550) 0 0 0 5B,1B2 55,000 0 0 0 0 224,461 71,468 0 0 31917,971 24,000 11600 145,450 108,550 --------- 232,061 ------------ 19429,357 ---------- 829,388 ---------- 71,977 ------------------------ 69308,569 59,150 --------- 2,550 ----------- 154,000 ------------ 347,000 V 25,850 11429,357 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0, 0 0 13050 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 200,750 0 0 0 830,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 71,977 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 829,388 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 141,000 347,000 0 --------- 0 0 0 51153,000 0 0 0 0 226,600 ------------ 1,429,357 ---------- 8291388 ---------- 71,977 ------------------------ 51983,000 0 --------- 15050 ----------- 141,000 ------------ 347,000 51461 0 0 0 100,000 30,000 950 7,000 0 0• --------- 0 ------------ 0 ---------- 0 ---------- 225,569 ------------------------ 29,150 550 --------- 6,000 ----------- 0 ------------ 232,061 1,429,357 829,388 71,977 6,308,569 59,150 2,550 154,000 349,000 04� ft, 00 a 0 Pt q V c 0 0 r �J a rn CIO QZJ Go ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: Federal Sources State Sources Local Sources Less 5% per F. S. 129.01(2)(b) Transfers Cash Forward October 1, 1987 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES APPROPRIATIONS: General Government Public Safety Physical Environment Transportation Economic Environment Human Services Culture/Recreation Interfund Transfers TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS Reserve for Contingencies Cash Forward September 30, 1988 TOTAL BUDGET INDIAN RIVER COUNTY - OTHER OPERATING FUNDS - PROPOSED FOR FY 87-80 POLICE TREE ENVIRONMENTAL COURT PETITION ROAD ACADEMY FINES CONTROL FACILITIES PAVING IMPROVEMENT - FUND ----- --------- FUND.. FINE-- --- _ FUND - FUND -- - FEES_- - - 0 --------- 0 ------------- 0 --------- 0 ---------- 0 ----------- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 16,000 21200 29510 42,000 265,000 1,057,500 (800) (110) (126) (2,100) (13,250) (52,875) 0 0 0 0 1,050,000 0 0 15,110 826 42,695 127,835 1,052,875 --------- --------- ------------- --------- ---------- ----------- 15,200 179200 35210 82,595 1,429,585 2,057,500 0 0 0 30,000 0 0 14,500 0 3,210 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10429,585 459,500 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 --------- 0 --------- 0 ------------- 0 --------- 0 ---------- 140,000 ----------- 14,500 0 3,210 30,000 1,429,585 599,500 700 9,200 0 52,595 0 500,000 0 8,000 0 0 0 958,000 15,200 17,200 3,210 82,595 11429,585 21057,500 u 1 i I co ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: Local Sources Transfers Cash Forward - October 1, 1987 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES APPROPRIATIONS: General Government Public Safety Physical Environment Transportation Interfund Transfers Reserve for Contingency Cash Forward - September 30, 1988 TOTAL BUDGET • I co ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES: Local Sources Transfers Cash Forward - October 1, 1987 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND BALANCES APPROPRIATIONS: General Government Public Safety Physical Environment Transportation Interfund Transfers Reserve for Contingency Cash Forward - September 30, 1988 TOTAL BUDGET M V INDIAN RIVER COUNTY CAPITAL PROJECTS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 87-88 GIFFORD COUNTY COUNTY INDIAN INDIAN COUNTY ROAD JAIL JAIL RIVER BLVD. RIVER BLVD. HEALTH DEPT. SHERIFF; IMPROVEMENT PHASE I PHASE II SOUTH NORTH BUILDING BUILDING ----------- 0 --------- 0 ---------- 1,000 ---------- 0 ---------- 0 ------------ 1,000 ----------- 24,200 467,000 0 0 11470,000 2,2511000 0 530,000 10,000 530,000 485,000 0 0 109,000 970,800 ----------- --------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ------------ ----------- / 1/ 477,000 530,000 486,000 1,470,000 21251,000 110,000 1,525,000 0 0 0 0 0 110,000 0 0 0 486,000 0 0 0 11375,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 457,000 0 .0 11370,000 21151,000 0 0 0 530,000 0 0 0 0 0 20,000 0 0 100,000 100,000 0 150,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----------- 477,000 --------- 530,000 ---------- 4B61000 ---------- 10470,000 ---------- 21251,000 ------------ 110,000 ------------ 11525,000 m 0 0 c-� lrJ INDIAN RIVER COUNTY ENTERPRISE AND INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 67-88 SANITARY WATER L SEWER FLEET REVENUES: CITRUS User Fees LANDFILL Interest Income MANAGEMENT Cash Forward - October 1, 1987 GROVE TOTAL REVENUES 1,600,000 EXPENSES: 11043,967 Golf Course Maintenance 50,000 Grove Maintenance 100,000 Vehicle Maintenance 0 Garbage/Solid Waste 250 Water/Sewer Combination Services 102,963 Protective Services 0 Transfers 275500 Cash Forward - September 30, 1988 ---------- TOTAL EXPENSES W 0 ---------- 0 ---------- ! / (/ 1,802,963 31832,390 1,043,967 712,103 77,750 11184,214 . rn 0 Fes► 0 0 111841214 0 0 INDIAN RIVER COUNTY ENTERPRISE AND INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 67-88 SANITARY WATER L SEWER FLEET BUILDING CITRUS GOLF LANDFILL UTILITIES MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT GROVE COURSE 1,600,000 31425,000 11043,967 679,500 50,000 1,0631282 100,000 0 0 20,000 250 11572 102,963 407,390 0 12,603 275500 1199360 ---------- ------------- ---------- ---------- --------- ---------- ! / (/ 1,802,963 31832,390 1,043,967 712,103 77,750 11184,214 0 0 0 0 0 111841214 0 0 0 0 77,750 0 0 0 11043,967 0 0 0 1,802,963 0 0 0 0 0 0 31832,390 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 662,546 0 0 0 0 0 61839 0 0 0 0 0 42,718 0 0 1,802,963 35832,390 11043,967 712,103 77,750 11184,214 1 1 BOOK 69 FAcE 241 GENERAL FUND OMB Director Baird explained that one of the requirements is to identify why we have an increase as we have this year, and he then reviewed the following accounts showing an increase in the range of $100,000: State Health Department $106,871 I.R. Community Health Dept. 89,335 Refuse (Green Dumpsters) 112,189 Parks Department 128,414 Building Operations 200,898 Property Appraiser 175,404 Sheriff's Operations 603,953 Jail 967,938 Chairman Scurlock felt'it is important to note the amount spent on law enforcement and related activities. That amount is somewhat staggering. In fact, almost half of the increase in the budget is due to law enforcement activity -- the Jail, Sheriff's Dept., Public Defender, the court system, etc. A very significant amount of this is mandated by the State of Florida. Recently we have had a court order to decrease the population of the Jail, and as a result, we must move ahead into constructing the third phase of the Jail. A great deal of the increase in salaries is due to the hiring of 22 additional officers by the Sheriff, which again is mandated by the State. Chairman Scurlock opened the Public Hearing on the General Fund and asked if anyone wished to be heard. Richard Burkhart, 1936 Mooringline Drive, Vero Beach, stated that he did not represent any organized group, but felt that he was speaking for a great many people in objecting to this year's proposed tax increase. He recently received his TRIM notice and felt he was forced to register his profound indignation over this increase and the tendency to increase the taxes over the last six 10 year$. Over those years his taxes have increased almost 50%, and he expressed concern about the future and whether he could continue to live in this county because of the tax situation. Mr. Burkhart urged the Board to reverse the trend of tax increases that we have seen in Indian River County over the past 6 years. This statement received great applause from those in attendance. Chairman Scurlock pointed out that the Sheriff's and Jail expenses account for $1.5 million of the $2.8 million increase in the General Fund. Added to that are the other mandated law enforcement activities that raise the increase even more. He expreissed his frustration in that his taxes increased $200 this year on his home which is valued at $100,000, and he believed the other Commissioners feel the same frustration. However, where do we cut? The items where we have control is not where the big increases have occurred. The Chairman encouraged Mr. Burkhart and those in attendance to take the time to put the pressure on our I'egislators in Tallahassee and tell them that we can't take any more tax burden. He emphasized that if the County was to take the taxes back to what they were last year, it would result in a, decrease in services to the community, such as transportation for the Council on Aging or other agencies where we have control over their budgets. He asked those present for specifics of where to cut expenses. Jack Orr, 109 Palmetto Court, asked if the Commission has considered contracting out certain services to private firms, and Chairman Scurlock stated that we are doing that now and have reduced the size of Fleet Management for maintenance of vehicles. We a�e considering privatization in several areas, but have found it p eferable to operate the Jail ourselves rather than contract d� it o t. Bill McGilpin, Hobart Landing, complained about paying a huge tax ilncrease when the area he lives in receives so little in County services, such as street lights, water and sewer, road E 2 11100i 1 BOOK 69: PAGE 242 SP -17 41 BOOK 69 PACE 243 maintenance, or Sheriff's patrol. He pointed out that his taxes have doubled in the 8 years he has been there, having gone from $1100 to $2200. He understood he has the ability to go to the Property Appraiser and argue that his assessment is too high 10 since his property is in an area that has such a lack of services. Mr. McGilpin recalled that the reason Proposition #13 was so successful in California was that people got to the point that they could not afford their taxes and had to sell their homes. He urged the Board not to let that happen here. This statement was followed by much clapping. Commissioner Bird emphasized that growth does not pay for itself, and we are still playing catch up on services for people who are not even here yet. Mrs. Marshall, Roseland, stated that she and her husband sold their single-family home in Palm Bay and are now living in a mobile home on a lot in Roseland. Their intention was to live there on a very little fixed income; however, they were shocked that their taxes here are higher than on the masonry home they sold in Palm Bay. She realized that the Jail expenses are a very large part of the budget, and wondered if any attempt is being made to use prisoners on public projects. She suggested that in order to gain extra space in the Jail, the prisoners could work and sleep in shifts. Chairman Scurlock advised that we have weekend work programs where prisoners can work off their time doing community service. With regard to the Jail, the State tells us what to do, and in fact, we had to spend more money on acoustics because they said the noise level was too high. We don't have enough space in the new Jail and most of the prisoners are felons. Mrs. Marshall asked if the County invests money in order to keep the taxes down, and OMB Director Baird assured her that monies are invested at the highest rate of return available. Harold J. Fitzgerald of the Moorings, representing the Taxpayers of Indian River County, questioned various line items 12 shown under General Fund Expenses, and OMB Director Baird responded. Dr. Henry Fischer, Sebastian, vigorously objected to the increase in taxes which he believed was due to the County moving into lthis Administration Building and filling it up with persolnnel. He urged the Board to keep the space down so that there, will be a limit on operating funds and personnel. Dr. Fischer objected especially to the number of personnel in Planning and Code Enforcement, and recommended cuts in both areas. He also felt that Road & Bridge is inefficient. Craig Jones, Fellsmere, objected to the tax increase because he requires very few services. He agreed with Dr. Fischer about the costs of this building, but also objected to the costs of the Clerk to the Court. Mr. Jones admitted that he does not know how the Board can control the expenses that are the result of State - mandated services, but did feel the Board should cut back on the items, that we can control. The Commissioners indicated that perhaps the areas in which to consider cutbacks are Hurricane Reserve and Contingencies. Hurricane reserves would be desirable to pay for cleanup after a storm, but there are other more immediate needs. If we do have a bad hurricane, we would have to ask the Governor to declare Indian River County as a disaster area. Leroy Elam, Paradise Park, pointed out the difficulties in paying the bills for young couples with children. In addition, it is a hardship to pay for sewer and water hookups, and it makes you wonder where you are going to get the money. He has talked to other working-class people like himself, and they are also wondering where they are going to get the money to pay their billsi. Mr. Elam explained that he had planned to live in a mobile home on his lot until his house was built, but was told he cannot do that any longer. He listed his expenses for necessities and wondered where he could make any cuts in order to have money to pay the increase in his taxes. d SEP2 �� 7 13 BOOK 69 FACE 244 r SEP 195 dooK 69 FAc 245 P Fred Mensing, Roseland, felt that the Commission needs to advise the people that we have the ability to go to charter government, such as they have in Jacksonville, where both the city and county are one. He agreed with Dr. Fischer about the mess Road & Bridge is in, and also felt there is a grievous problem in the Planning Department, even though it has been improved slightly. Mr. Mensing urged the Board to seek out light clean industry for this county so that people have reason to live here and graduate from high school have something more to look forward to than working for a Burger King or 9 months a year in the citrus industry. Rolando Menendez, 626 Paradise Lane, Floravon Shores, felt it was absolutely irresponsible for this Commission to put through a 20% increase. He realized that when you look at individual projects in the budget, it is pretty hard to cut down, but felt there are places that can be cut. He pointed out that people here tonight are saying the same thing - that these increases are too much and that 20% is too much. They want to see the increase cut down to a flat out 10%, and if specific places cannot be found to cut, then there should be a 10% overall cut. This statement was followed by much clapping. Chairman Scurlock believed the County has done a diligent job in preparing an adequate budget for this year, and wondered where the people were during the budget workshops. He pointed out that there is a very large number of people who feel services are inadequate and are ready to accept the increase in taxes. The Chairman believed the reason for the big increase is because taxes were too low for too many years. If a cut is made, however, he personally felt there could be some reductions made in Contingencies. Debbie Menendez, Floravon Shores, objected to the tax increase, and wanted to see services either reduced or eliminated in some of the areas discussed here tonight. Jim Wadsworth, Sebastian, believed that cuts should be made in Personnel which shows an increase over last year's budget of $43,075. (Administrator Balczun explained that the principal cause for that I ncrease is due to the fact that the County now has a professional, fully -trained Personnel Director. We have enormous retention difficulties here, and we are hoping the new director will,resolve these problems. He pointed out that the Personnel Director also handles a substantial portion of employee insurance matters. Mr. Wadsworth still felt there could be a reduction in Personnel, and continued to suggest places where cuts could be made, such as Refuse, Animal Control, and Clerk to the Board. OMB Director Joe Baird explained that the increase in Refuse is tc cover the transfer stations where people dump free and it is transferred to the Landfill, and Chairman Scurlock pointed out that 'if we were to eliminate one Animal Control Officer, it would barely affect the millage rate. He also pointed out that we are in the process of developing a new system that would charge for dumpi',ng at the transfer stations. ,Director Baird explained that the Clerk to the Board budget includes Data Processing, Finance, and Recording Secretary Departments, and noted that the major portion of the increase in the Clerk's budget is due to capital items such as the computer system. ,Chairman Scurlock pointed out that in any event the Clerk has the option to go to Tallahassee for final approval of her budget. He noted that the Clerk was the only constitutional officer who chose to send a representative to tonight's meeting. Don Hylton, Data Processing Manager, noted that he was here on his own and had not been sent by the Clerk. He explained that the Clerk has had a total of 57 employees for the past 3 years and there has been no increase there; the increase is for the highispeed printer for month-end reports. 15 SEP 2 687 BOOK 69 PAcE 246 d I 8 E P 2 1987 BOOK 69 FACE.24 7 P Mr. Wadsworth questioned the need for the large increase in the Property Appraiser's budget, and Director Baird explained that the Property Appraiser's increase is mostly in personnel and operating expenses; however, the Board sees only a portion of his s budget. Chairman Scurlock repeated that the Property Appraiser is a constitutional officer and has the option of going to Tallahassee for final approval of his budget. Mr. Wadsworth felt that we should let the constitutional officers go to Tallahassee; let's not be a push over. Mr. Wadsworth asked if any thought had been given to using the local hospital for autopsy services, and Administrator Balczun advised that is another area where we have no control. The Governor appoints the Medical Examiner to serve the four counties in this district. Mr. Wadsworth felt the Board needs to take a strong look at this budget and come back with less than a 10 percent increase, but Commissioner Gary Wheeler believed it would be irresponsible to cut the budget by 10 percent because of the reduction of services that would follow. Bill Moriarity, 805 Starboard Drive, asked who approves the Sheriff's budget, and Commissioner Eggert explained that the Sheriff is also a constitutional officer and has the option of going to Tallahassee for final approval. Mr. Moriarity asked if the line by line budgets were available to the public for review, and Chairman Scurlock explained that the public has that right and the line by line budgets are available during the workshops, and, in fact, at all times. Mr. Moriarity compared the budget preparation to that of private enterprise where the Chairman of the Board researches every core of his operation and presents a budget that will turn a profit. There is no profit here, but he emphasized that we cannot continue to raise taxes or we all will be ejected from our 16 r � homes',. Mr. Moriarity felt possible the answer is to keep changling faces on the Board until we get somebody who is going to hear jus. He again referred to running a corporation and noted that he does not believe in zero budgeting where you spend whatever surplus you have and zero out at budget time. Chairman Scurlock advised that zero budgeting has not been the attitude of this Commission, and he further pointed out that there is a basic difference between running a corporation and government. In a corporation, you can divest yourself of the losers, but we can't drop mental health, law enforcement, the jail,! etc. Mr. Moriarity continued to ask pertinent financial questions, and Chairman Scurlock believed with his business backg ound, Mr. Moriarity could assist the county in the budge,ary process and he would like to have him serve on the County Finance Committee. Mr. Moriarity indicated that he would be interested, and then asked if tonight's meeting is just an exercise in futility and whether we are here tonight just because the law requires two public hearings before the budget is adopted. The Commissioners assured him that this was not an exercise in futility, and Commissioner Bird felt that the people would be surprJsed to find that cuts will be made as a result of the input of this meeting. Mr. Moriarity felt strongly that we have to tell Tallahassee that we cannot accept these mandates to increase services any longer, and Commissioner Wheeler suggested that we all go up to Tallahassee together and protest. inda Woodard, 111 15th Avenue, Vero Beach, asked if the old jail ould be used to alleviate the overcrowding at the new Jail, and C mmissioner Wheeler explained that the old jail is in such a deplorable state that there is no way the DOC would relicense that facility. 17 BOOK 69 PACE 2418 d S E P 2 1987 BOOK 69 PAGE 249 Mrs. Woodard asked if the amount in Line 220 - Building Operations- included improvements within this building such as remodeling of offices. N OMB Director Baird confirmed that improvements are included in Building Operations. Mrs. Woodard also expressed concern about the total debt obligation of the County and its percentage of the total budget. Mr. Martinez questioned the hour of 5:01 P.M. to hold these public hearings, and Attorney Vitunac stated that State law says that the public hearings must be held after 5:00 o'clock P.M. Since these meetings last 3 or 4 hours, this Board chose to meet at 5:01 and have forgone their dinner so that they can hear everyone that wants to be heard, because many people in this county cannot stay out after 10 or 11 o'clock. Mr. Martinez also objected to the increased taxes and resented the easy sentences handed out by bleeding heart judges. Chairman Scurlock stated that he has made notes of several suggested areas where we can reduce the budget, but when you total them up, they really don't make any significant change in the millage. He thought that we may see some reductions, but it would not be anything as great as if we could shave some off the mandated services. Sam Hall, President of the Moorings Property Owners Association, could not understood the necessity for the $1,096,093 in the Property Appraiser's budget. Chairman Scurlock noted that after the Commission cut his budget last year, the Property Appraiser went to Tallahassee for final approval. OMB Director Baird advised that the Property Appraiser changed his mind and decided to go along with the cut. Mr. Hall felt the Commission is doing a great job, but wanted them to put some teeth into the Property Appraiser. Chairman Scurlock suggested that we ask Mr. Nolte to be at next week's Final Budget Hearing. In fact, he felt it would be 18 1 appropriate to ask all the constitutional officers to attend that meeting and defend their budgets. Raymond Shea, Laurelwood Subdivision, asked what would happen to us if we did not provide these mandated services, and Attorney Vitunac explained that the Commission has the authority to levy minimum taxes to provide certain facilities such as a courthouse. If the County plugged in zero amounts for such projects, the Governor could do away with the Board and levy the tax. ,Further, there is the fact that if we don't levy any taxes on these items, the County would not receive any State funds for the projects. Chairman Scurlock felt we really need to compare the potential of a sales tax versus the property tax, because in this count a 1 -cent sales tax would generate about $6 -million. oy Clark, a member of the board of directors of The Anchors, believed that if the General Fund budget is correct, we are asking for something like $4 -million more than last year which',is going too far. James Hessen, The Anchors, felt we are overlooking the possibility that the south beach area may be annexed into the City of Vero Beach. He believed that the vote,of this Board is i goinglto be the cause of a rallying group around the city. Mr. Hessen noted that he had talked with Sheriff Dobeck about getting more 'protection to that area so that area will stay in the county. BOMB Director Baird pointed out that these taxes have to be paid hether not you reside in the City of Vero Beach. Mr. Hessen did not dispute that, but strongly urged the Board to make some cuts in the proposed budget. There being no others who wished to be heard, the Chairman clos d the Public Hearing on the General Fund. Chairman Scurlock asked for comments from the other Commissioners, and Commissioner Bird suggested that we ask that 19 BOOK 69 *E 250 i SEP2 1987' ROOK 69 FACE 251 the staff deduct $200,000 from the budget -- $100,000 from the Hurricane Reserve fund and $100,000 from General Contingencies. Commissioner Wheeler wished to reduce the budget, but was not exactly sure where the cuts should be. He felt some of the suggestions heard tonight had merit, but wanted to see the County Administrator check to see where the cuts might best be made. He agreed that the constitutional officers should be invited to attend next week's final budget hearing to defend their budgets. He stated he could go along with the $200,000 cut suggested by Commissioner Bird, however. OMB Director Baird advised that a $200,000 cut in the budget would affect the millage figure by .056, which would amount to a decrease of $4.20 in taxes on a house valued at $100,000 and receiving the $25,000 Homestead Exemption. Commissioner Bird felt that while that was not a significant amount, tonight's turnout was by far .the largest and best turnout he has seen in these budget hearings, and he believed the Board wanted to give the message to the people that these meetings are not a lesson in futility. ON MOTION by Commissioner Bird, SECONDED by Commissioner Wheeler, the Board unanimously instructed the County Administrator to make an adjustment of $200,000 in the General Fund budget for 1987-88. OMB Director Joe Baird continued his review of the budget, next addressing the Transportation Fund. He explained there is no millage assessment for this fund; it is subsidized from the General Fund and MSTU; and the proposed budget is $6,246,657. The proposed budget increase is $395.50, or 6.8%. Director Baird stated that the General Purpose Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) has a proposed millage of 2.3730 mills, but with the deduction of the $50,000 in Hurricane Reserves, the millage rate would be affected in addition to the 20 percelntage of increase over rollback, which was 20.8% coming into this meeting. The proposed budget was $9,661,665 coming into this meeting. ,Director Baird continued his review, next addressing the Tran portation Fund. He explained there is no millage assessment .for this fund; it is subsidized from the General Fund and MSTU; and the proposed budget is $6,2.46,657. The proposed budget increase is $395,50, or 6.8%. Director Baird advised that the millage proposed for the Beach Acquisition General Obligation Bonds is .3528; there is no increase; and the proposed budget is $1,302,462. Director Baird then addressed the Vero Lake Estates Municipal Service Taxing Unit which is assessed on a per parcel basis and is the same charge as last year or $15.00 per parc I/acre. Rollback does not apply per parcel/acre. The proposed budget is $107,665. Director Baird then addressed the various Fire Districts and informed those present that the North County Fire District has a propo'Ised millage of 1.000, which is an 109.6% increase over rollback, and the proposed budget is $492,220. The West County Fire District has a proposed millage of .31228, which is an increase of 2.9% over rollback, and the proposed budget is i $63,6:38. The South County Fire District has a proposed millage of 1.6952, which is a 7.2% increase over rollback, and the proposed budget is $4,654,264. Director Baird advised that he would next review the various Stre t Lighting Districts which also are assessed on a per parcOI/acre basis and rollback does not apply. He then announced the 1 Disti Disti asse! mi sci Fund, roposed assessments and budgets for the Street Lighting icts, as follows, except for Terra Linda Street Lighting ict and the Single Light District, which are not levying an sment this budget year and will be included in the O laneous Motion with the Enterprise and Internal Service �, etc.. SEP 2 198J 21 BOOK 69' PAGE 252 41 BOOK 69 FACE 253 Gifford Street Lighting District - a proposed assessment of $9.00 per Parcel/Acre, the same as last year, with a proposed budget of $60,556. 4 10 Laurelwood Street Lighting District - remaining the same at $23.00 per Parcel/Acre and a proposed budget of $9,250. Rockridge Street Lighting District - the same as last year at $5.00 per Parcel/Acre and a proposed budget of $4,023. Vero Highlands Street Lighting District - a proposed assessment of $12.50 per Parcel/Acre, the same as last year, with a proposed budget of $54,134. Porpoise Point Lights - a proposed assessment of $40.00 per Parcel/Acre, (no assessment was levied last year) and the proposed budget is $1,600. Laurel Court Street Lighting District - a proposed assess- ment of $20.00 per Parcel/Acre, (no assessment was levied last year), and the proposed budget is $774. Vero Shores Street Lighting District - (first year) a proposed assessment of $30.00 per Parcel/Acre, and the proposed budget is $6,250. Ixora Street Lighting District - (first year) a proposed assessment of $30.00 per Parcel/Acre, and the proposed budget is $7,961. Director Baird announced that he would now review the proposed budgets of the remaining non -taxing entities, and advised that Federal Revenue Sharing is listed here with a proposed budget of $232,061; however, this is not the final hearing for that fund. That final hearing on Federal Revenue Sharing is scheduled for September 15th at 9:05 A.M. Chairman Scurlock then announced the proposed budgets for the remaining two street light districts, other operating funds, enterprise and internal service funds, and capital projects, as follows: 22 Street Lighting Districts: Single Light Districts $ 1,428 erra Linda Street Lighting Dist. 2,694 Other Operating Funds: Federal Revenue Sharing $ 232,061 1985 Ref. 8 Improvement Bonds 1,429,357 Section 8 Rental Assistance 829,388 Housing Authority Fund 71,977 Secondary Roads Const. Trust Fund 6,308,569 Special Law Enforcement Fund 59,150 Pistol Permits Fund 2,550 Parks Development Fund 154,000 Tourist Tax 347,000 'Police Academy Fund 15,200 ree Fines Funds � 17,200. Environmental Control Fines 3,210 Court Facilities Fund 82,595 Petition Paving Fund 1,429,585 Road Improvement Fees 2,057,500 Enterprise & Internal Service Funds: Sanitary Landfill 1,802,963 Water 6 Sewer Utilities 3,832,390 Fleet Management 1,043,967 Building Department 712,103 Citrus Grove 77,750 Golf Course 1,184,214 Capital Projects: Gifford Road Improvement 477,000 County Jail Phase 1 530,000 'County Jail Phase It 486,000 Indian River Boulevard South 1,470,000 Indian River Boulevard North 2,251,000 County Health Dept. Building 110,000 Sheriff's Building 1,525,000 The Chairman opened the public hearing on the funds just reviewed and asked if anyone present wished to be heard. John Eberhardt, Ixora Park, wished to know what is involved in a $treet Lighting District. Director Baird explained that the amount to be paid for strep t lighting in Ixora Park is $30 a year per parcel/acre. ,There being no others who wished to be heard, the Chairman declared the public hearing closed. 23 EP 2 19,87 L- nox PAGE 25 4 .S I :s BOOK 69' PA"E ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of 4.871 (22.20 over rollback) for the General Fund for fiscal year 1987-88. (This reflects the deduction in General Contingencies). ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $24,651,071 for the General Fund for fiscal year 1987-88. (This reflects the deduction in General Contingencies). ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $6,246,657 for the Transportation Fund for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of 2.3463 (20.80 over rollback) for the General Purpose Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. (This reflects the deletion of the Hurricane Reserves). ON MOTION by CommissioneroEggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $9,661,655 for the General Purpose Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of .3528 for the Beach Acquisition General Obligation Bonds for fiscal year 1987-88. 24 ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $1,302,462 for the Beach Acquisition General Obligation Bonds for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $15.00 per parcel/acre for the Vero Lake Estates Municipal Service Taxing Unit for the fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $107,665 for Vero Lakes Estates Municipal Service Taxing Unit. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of 1.000 (109.6440 over rollback) for the North County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $492,220 for the North County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of .31228 (2.9% over rollback) for the West County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. 25 SEP 2 .1987 BOOK 69,m' E 256 4r ROOK 69 PACE257 ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $63,638 for the West County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative millage rate of 1.6952 (7.2a over rollback) for the South County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $4,654,264 for the South County Fire District for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $9.00 per parcel/acre for the Gifford Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $60,556 for the Gifford'Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $23.00 per parcel/acre for the Laurelwood Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. 26 ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $9,250 for the Laurelwood Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $5.00 per parcel/acre for the Rockridge Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $4,023 for the Rockridge Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $12.50 per parcel/acre for the Vero Highlands Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $54,134 for the Vero Highlands Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. 27 BOOK 69 FACE 2'�0 J BOOK 69 FACE 259 ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $40.00 per parcel/acre for the Porpoise Point Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $1,600 for the Porpoise Point Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $20.00 per parcel/acre for the Laurel Court Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $774 for Laurel Court Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $30.00 per parcel/acre for the Vero Shores Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing. Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $6,250 for the Vero Shores Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. 28 ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative assessment of $30.00 per parcel/acre for the Ixora Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $7,961 for the Ixora Street Lighting Municipal Service Taxing Unit for fiscal year 1987-88. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Bird, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget for the remaining non -taxing funds of the County for fiscal year 1987-88, as follows: 29 BOOK 69 PAGE 260 S E P 2 1987 BOOK 69 PAGE 261 Street Lighting Districts: Single Light Districts $ 1,428 N Terra Linda Street Lighting Dist. 2,694 Other Operating Funds: Federal Revenue Sharing $ 232.061 1985 Ref. 6 Improvement Bonds 1,429,357 Section 8 Rental Assistance 829,388 Housing Authority Fund 71,977 Secondary Roads Const. Trust Fund 6,308,569 Special Law Enforcement Fund 59,150 Pistol Permits Fund 2,550 Parks Development Fund 154,000 Tourist Tax 347,000 Police Academy Fund 15,200 Tree Fines Funds 17,200 Environmental Control Fines 3,210 Court Facilities Fund 82,595 Petition Paving Fund 1,429,585 Road Improvement Fees 2,057,500 Enterprise & Internal Service Funds: Sanitary Landfill 1,802,963 Water 8 Sewer Utilities 3,832,390 Fleet Management 1,043,967 Building Department 712,103 Citrus Grove 77.750 Golf Course 1,184.214 Capital Projects: Gifford Road Improvement 477,000 County Jail Phase 1 530,000 County Jail Phase II 486,000 Indian River Boulevard South 1,470,000 Indian River Boulevard North 2,251,000 County Health Dept. Building 110,000 Sheriff's Building 1,525,000 There being no further business, on Motion duly.made, seconded and carried, the Board adjourned at 8:45 o'clock P.M. ATTEST: ClerkChairman 30 ®RIN, V ., 00