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Home My WebLink About9/8/1993� MINUTESIWTTACHED � BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA AGENDA SEPTEMBER 8, 1993 5:01 P.M. - COUNTY COMMISSION CHAMBER ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 1840 25th STREET VERO BEACH, FLORIDA County Commissioners Richard N. Bird, Chairman John W. Tippin, Vice Chairman Carolyn K. Eggert Fran B. Adams Kenneth R. Macht 1. 2. 3. 4. Call to Order James E. Chandler, Administrator Joseph A. Baird, OMB Director Charles Vitunac, County Attorney Jeffrey K. Barton, Clerk to the Board Pledge Of Allegiance - John W. Tippin, Commissioner Budget Overview by County Administrator, James Chandler Adoption of Procedure to conduct Hearings on Ad Valorem Taxing Districts Recommend adoption of following procedures for funds in agenda item 5: A. Open Hearing B. Announce Millage and percentage of increase in Millage over Rolled Back Rate necessary to fund the Budget, if any, and Specific Purposes for which Ad Valorem Tax Revenues are being increased C. Receive comments from the Public D. Consider any Proposed Amendments to Tentative Budget and Calculate Revised Tentative Millage Rate (if revised) E. Adopt Tentative Millage Rate F. Adopt Tentative Budget G. Announce %, if any, by which Recomputed Tentative Millage Rate Exceeds the Rolled Back Rate 1 SEP 81993 BOOK 90 PAA 465 SEP 81993 BOOK so F-dGr 400 5. AD VALOREM FUNDS A. Ad Valorem separately each fund se Read Millage and ( P Y make motion for each fund after Public input) % Above or Millage Below Millage a. General Fund 4.3601 7.85% Above b. Transportation Fund N/A N/A C. Municipal Service Taxing Unit 1.6571 18.58% Above d. G.O. Library Bonds .3006 N/A e. Emergency Services District 2.1910 1.11% Below f. Aggregate 7.1140 6.54% Above B. Ad Valorem Budget (Read each fund separately and make motion for each fund after Public input) Dollars a. General Fund $40,116,139 b. Transportation Fund $ 8,061,199 C. Municipal Service Taxing Unit $149004,379 d. G.O. Library Bonds $ 1,653,708 e. Emergency Services District $11,731.885 6. Solid Waste Disposal District Budget (Non -Ad Valorem Special District) A. Announce 1993/94 Proposed Charge and Budget a. $35.32 per Waste Generation Units b. $8,520,999 Budget B. Receive comments from the Public C. Consider any Proposed Amendments D. Adopt Tentative Charge and Budget Pa 7. Adoption of Non -Ad Valorem Assessment Charges A. Announce 1993/94 proposed charge for each Non -Ad Valorem Assessment District Charge Per Parcel/Acre a. Vero Lake Estates M.S.T.U. $ 15.00 Street Liehtina Districts b. Gifford $ 19.50 c. Laurelwood $ 22.00 d. Rockridge $ 15.00 e. Vero Highlands $ 20.00 f. Porpoise Point $ 30.00 g. Laurel Court $ 33.00 h. Tierra Linda $ 42.00 i. Vero Shores $ 26.00 j. Ixora Park $ 23.00 k. Royal Poinciana $ 28.00 1. Roseland Road $ 6.00 m. Walker's Glen $ 40.50 n. Glendale Lakes $ 24.00 o. Floralton Beach $ 32.50 B. Receive comments from the Public C. Consider any Proposed Amendments and Calculate Revised Charge D. Adopt Tentative Charge 3 L- SE 8 1993 BOOK 90 PAGE 467 Fr - SEP 19�� a Approve Non -Ad Valorem Dollar Budgets BooK 96 FArF468 A. Announce 1993/94 Proposed Budget (motion separate for each budget) a. Housing Authority b. Other Debt Service Fund C. Capital Projects d. Other Special Revenue Funds e. Enterprise Funds E Internal Service Funds B. Receive comments from the Public C. Consider any Proposed Amendments D. Adopt Tentative Budget $ 97,740 $ 1,382,424 $ 13,780,000 $ 20,943,947 $ 19,654,836 $ 1,883,219 Announce Time and Place of Final Budget Hearing FINAL budget hearing will be held at 5:01 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1993, at the County Administration Building, 1840 25th Street, Vero Beach, Florida. 10. ADJOURN IF ANY PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE ON THE ABOVE MATTERS, HE/SHE WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND FOR SUCH PURPOSES, HE/SHE MAY NEED TO INSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY IN EVIDENCE ON WHICH THE APPEAL IS BASED. El � � s SPECIAL MEETING Wednesday, September 8, 1993 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 8, 1993, at 5:01 p.m. Present were Richard N. Bird, Chairman; John W. Tippin, Vice Chairman; Fran B. Adams; Carolyn K. Eggert; and Kenneth R. Macht. Also present were James E. Chandler, County Administrator; Charles P. Vitunac, County Attorney; and Patricia Held, Deputy Clerk. The Chairman called the meeting to order. Commissioner John Tippin led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Chairman Bird welcomed members of the public and explained that those who could not find a seat in chambers were assembled in the first floor conference room and were listening over the speaker system. A signature sheet is available in that conference room for members of the public who wish to address the Board and the names will be called during the public hearing portion of the meeting. Chairman Bird introduced the Commissioners and staff. County Attorney Charles Vitunac advised that formal notice of the meeting was given through the mailing of the Truth In Millage (TRIM) Notice and the Notice of Non -Ad Valorem Assessments for 1993 to all Indian River County taxpayers. Chairman Bird announced that County Administrator Chandler would review the budgets and millages and explain pertinent details. County Administrator Chandler announced that this is the first of two public hearings to consider the proposed budget for fiscal year 1993-94. The second and final hearing will be on Wednesday, September 15, 1993, at 5:01 p.m. in Commission Chambers. SEP 81993 BOOK 90 F�A,E-469 Box FA�F 470 Administrator Chandler clarified that the figures shown in the following Proposed Budget do not include a $30,000 reduction in the budget for Buildings & Grounds. The figures' -do include the reduction in the Property Appraiser's budget as well as reductions in other budgets which were made at the July budget workshop. 1993/94 PROPOSED BUDGET COMPARISON BY FUND FUND - NAME OF FUND 1992/93 ACTUAL BUDGET PROPOSED 1993/94 BUDGET(DECREASE) INCREASE PERCENTAGE OFINCREASE/ DECREASE 001 General Fund $38,152,739 $40,116,139 $1,963,400 5.15% 004 Municipal Service Fund $13,226,599 $14,004,379 $777,780 5.88% 101 Road Improvement Fees $6,805,000 $9,820,000 $3,015,000 44.31 % 103 Police Academy Trust Fund $50,350 $60,040 $9,690 19.25% 106 Court Facilities Fund $75,100 $163,218 $88,118 117.33% 107 IRC Housing Authority $97,967 $97,740 $227 (0.23)% 108 Section 8/Rental Assistance $1,279,014 $1,294,521 $15,507 1.21% 109 Secondary Road Construction $3,100,000 $6,900,000 $3,800,000 122.58% 111 Transportation Fund $8,481,164 $8,061,199 $419,965 (4.95)% 112 Special Law Enforcement $206,552 $38,000 $168,552 (81.60)% 113 Parks Development $22,850 $22,850 $0 0.00% 114 Emergency Services Districts $11,293,092 $11,731,885 $438,793 3.89 % 117 Tree Ordinance Fines $43,550 $45,000 $1,450 3.33% 119 Tourist Development Fund $475,422 $610,531 $135,109 28.42% 120 911 Surchar a $526,237 $367,008 $159,229 (30.26)% 121 Drug Abuse Fund $12,375 $12,500 $125 1.01% 122 Local Gov't. Criminal Justice $50,000 $47,500 $2,500 (5.00)% 173 Petition Paving $1,550,028 $1,163,599 $386,429 (24.93)% 181 Gifford Strectlighting $54,779 $51,820 $2,959 (5.40)% 182 Laurelwood Streetlighting $10,842 $10,746 $96 0.89)% 183 Rockrid a Streetlighting $4,346 $8,051 $3,705 85.25% 184 Vero Highlands Streetlighting $65,960 $65,209 $751 1.14 185 Vero Lakes Estates $193,800 $213,060 $19,260 9.94% 186 Porpoise Point Streetligting $1,771 $1,771 $0 0.00% 187 Single Streetlights $5,600 $5,650 $50 0.89% 188 Laurel Court Streetlighting $1,006 $1,007 $1 0.10% 189 Tierra Linda Streetlighting $2,731 $2,731 $0 0.00% 190 Vero Shores Strcetlighting $6,314 $6,200 $114 .(1.81)% 191 Ixora/Eastview Streetlighting $8,583 $8,583 $0 0.00% 192 Royal Poinciana Strectlighting $14,804 $14,005 $799 (5.40)% Roseland Strectli htin $3,636 $3,636 $0 0.00% Walker's Glen Strectli htin $2,932 $2,951 $19 0.65% Glendale Lakes Strectli htin $1,928 $1,937 $9 0.47% K24 Floralton Beach Streetli htin $1,823 $1,823 $0 0.00% Library Bond Issue $1,669,017 $1,653,708 $15,309 0.92 % Refund and Im rovement Bonds $8,882,782 $1,382,424 $7,500,358 84.44 % Rockrid e Special Assessment Bond $162,295 $0 $162,295 (100.00)% 211 unty Sewer Assessment $1,321,263 $0 $1,321,263 (100.00)% 309 Indian River Blvd -North $5,740,000 $5,600,000 $140,000 (2.44)% 315 Optional One Cent Sales Tax $7,150,867 $7,500,000• $349,133 4.88% 316 Gifford Road Improvements $450,000 $680,000 $230,000 51.11% 411 Solid Waste Disposal District $8,051,681 $8,520,999 $469,318 5.83% 418 Golf Course $2,880,389 $2,984,664 $104,275 3.62% 441 County Building Dept, $861,702 $870,577 . $8,875 1.03% 471 Utilities $11,352,473 $13,388,970 $2,036,497 17.94% 472 Utilities-4mpact Fee $6,500,000 $2,410,625 $4,089,375 (62.91)% 501 Fleet Management $1,171,160 $1,161,444 $9,716 (0.83)% 502 Self -Insurance $806,088 $721,775 $84,313 (10.46W TOTAL FUNDS $142,828,611 '1141 R30 A751 PWOR t qAq in -yn-.m (1) Enterprise funds are net of capital in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). 2 Administrator Chandler stated that overall the total budget proposed for next fiscal year is $141,830,475 which is a decrease of $998;136, or a little under one percent decrease. Most of that decrease is related to capital funding and capital projects, not operating expenses. The budgets funded by property taxes will be considered first on the agenda. Administrator Chandler reported that the total aggregate millage rate for all those budgets is 7.1140, an increase of .4370 or 6.54 percent. Administrator Chandler explained that Truth In Millage requires a presentation of millage in rates and percents. Ad Valorem Taxing Districts General Fund M.S.T.U. Emergency Services District Ad Valorem Tax Voted Library Bond Issue Aggregate Millage INDIAN RIVER 00UNTY . TAXING DISTRICT SUNR IARY 1992/93 Millaee 4.2094 1.4455 2.2851 0.3042 6.9568 PROPOSED 1993/94 Rolled Back Millaae 4.0428 1.3975 2.2155 0.2922(l) 6.6770 There have been increased assessed values on some individually owned properties, and although the county -wide increase in the tax roll, excluding new construction, is 4.12 percent, Administrator Chandler recognized that in some instances individual assessed valuations vary considerably from that overall average. He pointed out that the Board of County Commissioners has control over expenditure levels within the budgets under consideration, but has - no control over individual property assessment on individual pieces of property. Administrator Chandler reported that the Solid Waste Disposal District and Utilities Department budgets are not funded by property taxes and there is no proposed increase in those rates. The Golf Course operation is funded totally by the fees of the players at the golf course and there are no property taxes involved. There is a slight increase in golf fees for the users of the golf course. 3 BOOK 90 FACE 471 L_ 3�p � 1993 J SEP BOOK 90 PAGE 472 *Total new personnel: Fund/# Added $'s Department Position General Fund: 2 28,664 Building & Grounds Tradesworker (7 mos.) - $34,287 Main Library (3 from PT to FT) Librarians 1 - Clerk/Circuit Court Internal Auditor $60,560 Property Appraiser Est. 5 l2 $1239511 Total General Fund M.S.T.U.: 1 $379342 Planning Economic Planner Transportation: 1 $369427 Traffic Engineering Signal Tech. III Emergency Services District: 6 $2259438 ALS Paramedics S.W.D.D.: I 4 $94,091 Landfill Maint. Workers • 3 $779485 Recycling Maint. Workers 7 $1719576 Total S.W.D.D. Utilities: 2 $489784 Water Utilities Service Workers (11 mos.) 1 $24,392 Water Utilities Hvy. Equip. Oper. (11 mos.) 1 $27,245 Water Utilities Plant Mechanic (11 mos.) 2 $489784 Sewer Utilities Service Workers (11 mos.) 1 $21,228 Sewer Utilities Meter Reader (11 mos.) 1 $22,430 Sewer Utilities Account. Clerk III (11 mos.) 8 $1929863 Total Utilities 28 $787,157 Total County * Tax supported budgets - net nine (9) additional full-time positions. Tax Collector eliminated four (4) positions. $327,871 = BCC Departments' cost (excluding Library). Conversion of three (3) part-time Librarians to full-time at a cost of $34,287 Funding of certain previously deferred Emergency Services Equalization Plan elements (6 - Paramedics $225,438) * Partial year operating costs for new Courthouse. Anticipated completion date of March, 1994; opening May, 1994. No increase in Solid Waste Disposal District rates (7 new employees) Implementation of multi -family recycling collection program ($171,380 for 9 months in 1993/94; annualized expense is $232,130). Indian River Blvd. Phase IV project budget of $5,600,000 Continuing Courthouse construction $7,500,000 No increase in Utilities rates (8 - new employees) Slight rate increase in Golf Course fees ($2.00 for most categories) 1993/94 GENERAL FUND 1. Amount of millage reflected on TRIM notices is 4.3766 . 2. Our proposed millage of 4.3601 is 7.85% above the rolled -back millage of .4.0428. 3. The county proposed General Fund Budget is $40,116,139. Current year is $38,152,739. A $1,963 400 increase. 5 BOOK 9® F,� jr 1 � SEP 8 1993 4. Bou 90 pw 474 -1 HIGHLIGHTS: A. B. Increases in the following Constitutional budgets: $1,269,781 Sheriff 64.70/c of Total General Fund Increase $ Increase % of $24,101 1992/93 1993/94 Increase % Total ($11,152) Supervisor of Elections Main Library - Part-time Librarians (50 hours bi-weekly) to Full-time (75 hours bi-weekly) $1 Total Increase BCC $9,391,098 $9,689,964 $298,8" 3.26/o 15.2% Constitutionals $21,108,807 $22,541,021 $1,432,214 6.8% 729% Other Stati Agencies $1,722,205 $1,912,829 $190,624 11.1% 9.7% Non-Prorit Organizations $727,593 $776,894 $49,301 6.8% 2.5016 Transfers/Cont./ Cash Fwd. $5,203,036 $5,195,431 ($7,605) (0XV/0) (0.3%) Total$38,152,739 $40,116,139 $1,963,400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................... B. Increases in the following Constitutional budgets: $1,269,781 Sheriff 64.70/c of Total General Fund Increase $149,484 Clerk to the BCC Clerk of Court $789350 $719134 $24,101 Property Appraiser Clerk of Court (Internal Auditor) $0 Tax Collector Property Appraiser (Estimated Cost) ($11,152) Supervisor of Elections Main Library - Part-time Librarians (50 hours bi-weekly) to Full-time (75 hours bi-weekly) $1 Total C. Five (5) new full time positions Amount # of Positions Department $289664 2 Building & Grounds (New Courthouse) N/A I Clerk of Court (Internal Auditor) $609560 2 Property Appraiser (Estimated Cost) $34,287 3 Main Library - Part-time Librarians (50 hours bi-weekly) to Full-time (75 hours bi-weekly) 6 D. $56,445 - ADA compliance costs includes $5,000 for Citizens for Total Accessibility of Indian River County, Inc. E. $100,000 - Gifford Landfill - monitoring requirements F. $67,206 - Increase in Medicaid Hospital and Nursing Homer Requirements G. $258,445 - Additional net operating costs for new Courthouse Completion - March 1994 Opening - May 1994 H. - $70,000 - Increase in Court Reporting expenditures I. $65,429 - Increase in Medical Examiner J. $42,500 - Increase in State Health Department K. $49,301 - Increase in Non-profit Organizations L. ($926,497) - Decrease in Cash Forward Revenues M. $955,911 - Salary Contingency Reserve (2%) 5. "PUBLIC DISCUSSION/COMMENTS" 6. Consider proposed amendments. 7. If there are any amendments - need to recalculate the General Fund millage and the total budgeted amount. 8. Motion to Approve General Fund millage rate of 4.3601% which is 7.85% above rolled back. 9. Motion to Approve General Fund total dollar budget of $40,1164139. 7 90 FADE �� SEP 8 1993 BOOK !. BOOK 90 F,�;F476 1993/94 TRANSPORTATION FUND 1. No millage 2. Rolled -back - N/A 3. Tlie county proposed Transportation Fund Budget is $8,061,199. Current year is $8,481,164, a 19 965 decrease or 4.95%. 4. The Transportation Fund includes Public Works Department, Engineering Department, Traffic Engineering and Road and Bridge HIGHLIGHTS: A. $36,427 - One (1) new position (Traffic Engineering - Signal Tech. II) B. ($348,040) - Decrease in Cash Forward Revenues C. $70,894 - Salary Contingency Reserve 1993/94 MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNIT 1. Amount of millage reflected on TRIM notices is 1.6571 . 2. Our proposed millage is 1.6571 . 3. Our proposed millage of 1.6571 is 18.58% above the rolled -back millage of 1.3975. 4. The county proposed M.S.T.U. Budget is $14,004,379. Current year is $13,226,599. A $777,780 increase (5.88%). 5. IIIGIILIGIITS: A. $37,342 - One (1) new position - Economic Planner - Supported by EDA Grant funds B. $852,942 - Increase in Fund Transfers Out ($1,112,494 increase in funding for Sherifl's Law Enforcement budget; ($259,552) decrease in funding of Transportation.) C. $59,000 - Final payment of County's commitment for Barber Street Complex in Sebastian D. ($422,650) - Decrease in Cash Forward Revenues E. $18,803 - Salary Contingency Reserve 8 1993/94 GENERAL OBLIGATION LIBRARY BONDS 1. Amount of millage reflected on TRIM notices is .3009. 2. Our proposed millage is .3006 3. Rolled -back millage does not apply to voter approved debt. - If it did, this would be a 2.87% increase 4. Proposed budget $1,653,708 - a $15,309 decrease over last year 5. IIIGIILIGIITS: A. Final Year - Last payment July, 1994 1993/94 EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT 1. Amount of millage reflected on TRIM notices is 2.1927. 2. Our proposed millage of 2.1910 is 1.11% less than the rolled back millage of 2.2155. 3. The county proposed Emergency Services District Budget is $11731,885. Current is $11,293,092, a $438,793 -increase (3.89%). 4. ,IIIGIILIGIITS: A. $225,438 - New Positions - 6 Paramedics - ALS B. $60,000 - Start of construction of new station at Grand IIarbor C. $136,860 - Salary Contingency Reserve ($102,324 Fire; $34,536 ALS) 19103/94 AGGREGATE MILLAGE 1. Proposed Aggregate Millage is 7.1140. Rolled -back aggregate millage is 6.6770. 2. Proposed aggregate millage is a 6.54% increase over rolled -back millage or an increase of $2,412,196 above rolled -back. Total County Budget $141,830,475 down from 142,828,611 a decrease of 998,136 or 0.70%. 9 � SEP X993 BOOK 90 F.Au X77 BOOK FA;F� I SEP 5. AD VALOREM FUNDS A. Ad Valorem Millage (Read each fund separately and make motion for each fund after Public input) B. Ad Valorem Budget (Read each fund separately and make motion for each fund after Public input) Dollars a. Gendral Fund $40,116,139 b. Transportation Fund $ 8,061,199 C. Municipal Service Taxing Unit $14,004,379 d. G.O. Library Bonds $ 103,708 e. Emergency Services District $11,731.885 Administrator Chandler pointed out that the General Fund contains an increase of approximately $1.9 million, an increase of 5.1 percent. The millage rate proposed to fund the General Fund budget is 4.3601, which is a 7.85 percent increase above the rolled -back rate of 4.0428. Within that budget are increases which include a 64 percent increase in the Sheriff's budget, an increase of $1.2 million; increases for two proposed positions mid -year within Buildings & Grounds for maintenance of the sophisticated systems in the new courthouse; increases related to compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as Medicaid, Clerk, Libraries, Health Department, court reporting and the Medical Examiner. There are increases related to funding of the requirements of outside agencies as well as a general salary 10 % Above or Miles Below Millage a. General Fund 4.3601 7.85% Above b. Transportation Fund N/A N/A C. Municipal Service Taxing Unit 1.6571 18.58% Above d. G.O. Library Bonds .3006 N/A e. Emergency Services District 2.1910 1.11% Below f. Aggregate 7.1140 6.54% Above B. Ad Valorem Budget (Read each fund separately and make motion for each fund after Public input) Dollars a. Gendral Fund $40,116,139 b. Transportation Fund $ 8,061,199 C. Municipal Service Taxing Unit $14,004,379 d. G.O. Library Bonds $ 103,708 e. Emergency Services District $11,731.885 Administrator Chandler pointed out that the General Fund contains an increase of approximately $1.9 million, an increase of 5.1 percent. The millage rate proposed to fund the General Fund budget is 4.3601, which is a 7.85 percent increase above the rolled -back rate of 4.0428. Within that budget are increases which include a 64 percent increase in the Sheriff's budget, an increase of $1.2 million; increases for two proposed positions mid -year within Buildings & Grounds for maintenance of the sophisticated systems in the new courthouse; increases related to compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as Medicaid, Clerk, Libraries, Health Department, court reporting and the Medical Examiner. There are increases related to funding of the requirements of outside agencies as well as a general salary 10 contingency. On the revenue side, there is a reduction in the budgeted cash forward balances. Administrator Chandler pointed out that the greatest increase is the 64 percent increase related to the law enforcement budget. Administrator Chandler explained that the Transportation Fund has no specific millage rate levied but is included in the tax budgets because 71 percent of the Transportation Fund budget is funded from the General Fund and MSTU revenues. The total budget for the Transportation Fund is a decrease of $419,965, which affects the Funds Transferred expense in both the General Fund and the MSTU. The Municipal Services Taxing Unit proposed budget has a $107,574 decrease in operating expenses but shows a $852,942 increase in fund transfers related to the increase in the Sheriff's budget. Administrator Chandler explained that this is the final year of the debt service for the General Obligation Library Bonds. The proposed millage rate is .3006, which is .0036 less than the current rate of .3042. Administrator Chandler stated that the total proposed budget for Emergency Services District is $11,731,885, which is an increase of $438,793, or 3.88 percent increase. The proposed millage rate for the Emergency Services District is 2.1910 which is 1.11 percent below the rolled -back rate of 2.2155. Although this budget is below the rolled -back rate, it does contain an increase for 6 additional paramedics as well as salary contingency funding. Administrator Chandler stated that the proposed aggregate millage rate for fiscal year 1993-94 is 7.1140, which is 6.54 percent above the rolled -back .rate of 6.6770. Chairman Bird explained that in addition to the categories listed by Administrator Chandler there are other agencies included on an individual total tax bill. The Board has no control over other taxing districts such as the school board, hospital district, mosquito control, and others. Therefore, discussion will be limited to those budgets over which the Board has control. MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, to adopt the recommended procedure to conduct Hearings on Ad Valorem Taxing Districts as recommended by staff. Discussion ensued regarding the public hearing portion of the procedure, and County Attorney Vitunac suggested, to avoid confusion and because there are many different budgets, the public Eel BOOK 90 PAGE 479 L SEP 8 1993 SEP 8 1991 BOOK 90 FAGE 480 should be allowed to speak generally and specifically, and the Board would remember the comments as each budget or fund is addressed. COMMISSIONER EGGERT AMENDED THE MOTION to allow the public to speak specifically or generally, close the public hearing, and then take action on the individual funds. THE CHAIRMAN CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. It was voted on and carried unanimously. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard in this matter. Scott Buzby, 130 Spring Line Drive, asked that a summary of the budget should be made available to the public prior to the meeting. OMB Director Baird reported that several people have picked up a summary and offered to give Mr. Buzby a copy. Mark Tripson, 5020 12th Street, supplied some statistics about the County Is growth and the increase in land values versus the increase in the budget since 1971. Mr. Tripson felt we do not need that much increase in the budget. Fred Mensing, resident of Roseland, agreed with Mr. Buzby that taxes have increased too much. He thought the Sheriff's budget was too high. He recommended that the County cut upper level management and department heads. He thought that the County should not invest in equipment, such as bulldozers, but should contract with private industry for those purposes. Mr. Mensing urged the Board to cut taxes. Wilbur J. Prezzano, 1825 Cutlass Cove Drive, stated that since he bought his home in 1978 his taxes have increased 510 percent, and he challenged anyone in County government to justify that increase. He believed that the Commissioners are not aware of the problems caused by increased taxes, and that the Commissioners have a responsibility to the people who put their trust in government. Bob Walsh, 4405 Sunset Drive, spoke about the economic situation in the entire country and specifically in Indian River County. He quoted numbers of increases in unemployed, the decrease in the number of visitors to the local Chambers of Commerce, and increases in the numbers of suicides, heart attacks and divorces. He stated that even those who are employed are losing ground every year, and some are not sure the ground will be there at all. 12 Anthony Esposito, 624 Southeast 23rd Street, Vero Shores, estimated that his taxes have increased 150 percent since he moved here. He was not sure where the Board should make cuts; the Commissioners were elected to make those decisions. He thought the Commissioners did a good job until a few years ago. He stated that everyone has cut back in their households and it is common sense that you cannot spend money you do not have. Mary Masters, 9845 61st Terrace, Breezy Village, Sebastian, stated that the assessed value on her 20 -year old mobile home with no improvements went up $8,180 over last year's assessed value. If she tried to sell it, the buyer would have to have cash because she did not think they could get a loan on an older house like hers. She thought the newest assessment is too high. Robert Haas, 2254 5th Court, S.E., explained that his $240 tax increase on his house is a 10 percent increase. He had to lower the rent on his rental property, property taxes and hurricane insurance have increased, and he stated that he is going down the tube little by little. Donna Cathcart, 1025 54th Avenue, was not prepared to speak but felt that the Commissioners should know that she reduced use of her air conditioning and pool so that she can afford electricity, and it is time for government to cut someplace. She lives in a subdivision that does not have full services, but every year her taxes have increased, and now her taxes are more than double. She believed that the Sheriff needs to tighten his budget just as everybody must. She criticized officials who are elected to office based on their promises and within months their promises are forgotten. She predicted that their names will be forgotten four years from now. Bob Grice, 710 Canoe Trail, stated that County government and the City of Vero Beach are running counter to the economy. Citizens are having a tough time. They are asking for services and lower taxes, and they trust elected officials to make the right decisions. Lawrence Freeb, Compass Cove, stated that the 20 and 30 percent tax increases are destroying public trust in government. That should scare everyone because without that trust, government will fail. He was sure the Commissioners were aware that many people are being put out of business in their personal budgets and in maintaining a home. He hoped it would not take a constitutional amendment to get the point across to government officials. There is a crisis in the national budget and in national health care, and local government should be aware that we have a local crisis. He urged the Board to be fair and make budgets cuts across the board. 13 BOOK 00 FAG F 4S SEP 81993 r SEP 81993 BOOK 90 PAGUE 482 J. C. Rodriguez, 6525 4th Place, Pine Tree Park, was concerned about where the Commissioners would make the cuts in the budget. He did not want the emergency medical services and fire services to be targeted. The new employees for emergency services are necessary in the fire -EMS stations which lack staff to operate the fire truck and ambulance simultaneously. Everyone wants emergency personnel to respond with the best care possible and if some areas of the county have that, everyone should have it. He urged the Board to maintain our pre hospital emergency services and fire services at the high standard we have set. John Milton, 5190 67th Street, Vero Beach, stated that this is his fourth consecutive year appearing before the Commission. He is totally opposed to any tax increase or assessment increase. He handed the Chairman a clipping from the September 3, 1993, Press Journal and asked that the Board members read it. Anthony Kovaleski, 2365 25th Avenue S.W., quoted figures related to property taxes and property tax millage. He stated that during a discussion earlier in the day with Director Baird he found a conflict in the figures. He discovered that the total property value in the county increased, resulting in a larger tax base. Mr. Kovaleski asked why millage rates are going up this year instead of down if the property values have gone up. The Chairman led discussion regarding the property values, and Director Baird gave the following example: Between fiscal year 1992-93 and fiscal year 1993-94, the proposed increase in the budgets that the County Commission is responsible for would be $26.46 on a $100,000 house. If the assessed value on that same house went up 4.12 percent, which is the average in the county, the increase would be $61.52. If the assessed value of the property increased more than the 4.12 percent, the millage rate would be adjusted to compensate. The important point is that the proposed budget is based on a county -wide analysis. Under further discussion, Mr. Kovaleski quoted various figures and thought the conflict was a difference of opinion. Director Baird stated that he did not know the source of Mr. Kovaleski's figures, and Chairman Bird suggested that Mr. Kovaleski meet with Mr. Baird and compare figures. Fred Sarg, 3306 First Road, complained that last year the people voiced the opinion that they did not want to spend'$75,000 for the sports complex in Sebastian, but the Board had the funds budgeted and they spent it anyway. He talked about the $4,000 assessment for the water system with additional fees for the meter. 14 He agreed that we need a sewer system but wanted to let people keep using their own wells. Gerry Smith, 1321 White Heron Lane, moved to Vero Beach at the end of 1986. She sold her house up north for more than twice what she paid for a house on the beach here, but the taxes on this home were $400 more than on the house up north. She is concerned about the increased rates in city utilities. There are increased income taxes, increased property taxes, increased utility rates and people are experiencing less income from CDs, municipal bonds and even stock dividends, and a lot of people are out of work. Regardless of what you can or cannot afford, everybody has a breaking point. She reminded everyone that this country started over objection to just one tax, - and she speculated that our forefathers must be turning over in their graves at least twice a day. She could not understand how the Commissioners could raise taxes year after year when they have to pay them also, unless taxes do not apply to them. Chairman Bird assured her that the Commissioners are nct exempt from taxes. John Weir addressed the 5 percent average increase in assessments throughout the county. He asked who got the decrease that is offsetting it, and whether we separate agriculture and residential in the County's accounting. OMB Director Baird stated that the Property Appraiser supplies the overall aggregate numbers and then we apply our millage rate to those numbers. Details are available from the Property Appraiser. Chairman Bird explained that appraised property values increased an average of 4.12 percent throughout the county. He supposed that some properties received a higher increase, mainly in the higher -priced residential areas, and some of the rural and agricultural areas received a decrease, resulting in the average; however, the bottom line is that the overall tax roll increased. William Roolage, 11 Vista Gardens Trail, Unit 101, stated that he has attended Commission meetings since 1973 or 1974. In that time this county has progressed from wells and septic tanks to a community water and sewer system, which is costly but we need these improvements. He is bothered by the $26 million bond issue for the acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands, and he strongly objected to the procedure of using matching funds which could double that figure. He was concerned about things that drop through the cracks throughout the year. He pointed out that people are hurting from inflation, especially senior citizens. He realized that we must expend more funds because of population 15 SEP 8 1993 BOOK 90 P,1;E 483 BOOK 9 F � Fa, . 4,8 growth, but he urged the Commissioners to avoid things during the year which will result in more burden on the shoulders of the citizens. Joe Steinetz, River Shores, reported that he was surprised when he received an increase in his assessed value. He went to Mr. Nolte's office and questioned it, because real estate has depreciated rather than appreciated. Mr. Steinetz claimed that an employee in Mr. Nolte's office said they arbitrarily made increases, which he thought is morally wrong and might be legally wrong. Mr. Steinetz discussed the 3 percent cap that was recently voted in and believed that it is not necessary to wait until 1995 to put that cap into effect in the county. He reported that he read in the paper that Mr. Nolte reduced his budget $100,000, which is a 5 percent decrease in his budget. Mr. Steinetz believed that $100,000 had to be "fat" or he could not have reduced it. He urged the Commissioners to look at.all the budgets to see if we can get rid of more fat. He contended that a problem in the Public Works Department is not fat, it is inefficiency. He gave the example of observing two employees lying prone on a pile of cement, and when he returned a half hour later they were still in the same position. On another occasion he saw three vehicles and four men gathered, and the men were just standing there doing nothing. Fifteen minutes later when he returned to that location, they were still standing there. The Chairman determined that no one else wished to be heard and thereupon closed the public hearing. Chairman Bird invited the public to remain to hear the Board's discussion. Administrator Chandler clarified that the public hearing portion on the ad valorem tax budgets was concluded but there would be public hearings on the other budgets, such as Street Lighting and Utilities. Commissioner Eggert wished the public had attended the budget workshops to see how the budget was analyzed and reduced. She asked staff to explain the circumstances surrounding the constitutional officers' budgets. County Attorney Vitunac advised that the State government can override the Board's decisions regarding constitutional officers' budgets. In other words, if the Board reduces their budgets, they can appeal to the Governor and the Cabinet. This is to ensure that the Sheriff, Tax Collector, Property Appraiser and Clerk will have adequate funds to do their job. County Attorney Vitunac further 16 advised that the County Administrator discussed the budgets with each of the constitutional officers prior to the budget workshops and they reduced their budgets to what they feel is the bare minimum. If the Commission decided on an across-the-board 10 percent decrease, the constitutional officers could appeal, and the State possibly could override the Board's decision. Administrator Chandler outlined the budget process. He stated that the budgets are submitted to the Administrator and the Director of the Office of Budget & Management. Together they analyze the proposed budgets with the department heads and the constitutional officers. Administrator Chandler is ultimately responsible for recommending the budget to the Board. Prior to submitting the -proposed budget for fiscal year 1993-94, he cut over $3 million from the submitted budgets. He did not recommend 13 new positions that were proposed in the General Fund budget, and recommended 3 additional positions which are under the jurisdiction of the Board. The budget was analyzed line by line and capital outlay, which consists of vehicles and equipment, was "gutted," along with other line items. Additional cuts were made by the Board. Emergency Services was reduced $314,000 and the Sheriff's budget was cut by $250,000. There were further cuts at the July workshop. Administrator Chandler stated that there is a 64 percent increase in the Sheriff's budget. This increase falls within the General Fund and MSTU. There are other smaller increases in the General Fund budget because of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, certain outside agencies, court reporters and a number of other items. The Clerk's budget was increased $150,000. There is an increase because of 2 new positions in Buildings & Grounds. Emergency Services District budget was cut $316,000 and included within that reduced budget are 6 proposed new positions. The Emergency Services budget is below the rolled -back rate. The Supervisor of Election's submitted budget is $11,000 below the current year budget. Chairman Bird stated that the Board sets a minimum goal, which is the rolled -back rate. He explained that rolled -back means if you had a house with the same appraised value this year as last year and we applied that rolled -back rate, your taxes would not go up. He further explained that even with the Administrator's $3.5 million cut and the Board's further cuts during budget workshops, the budget is $2,382,196 above what would get us back to the rolled -back rate. He pointed out, however, that if appraised property value is increased, even with the same millage, the taxes would go up. Also, there are other taxing bodies that may raise 17 L_ SEP 8 1993 BOOK 90 Far,F 485 J Boor 90 F,1; 96 their millage which will raise the total tax. The Board can only control a certain percentage of the millage that is applied against appraised value which determines the final tax bill. Chairman Bird asked how much of that $2,382,196 overage is constitutional officers, and Administrator Chandler responded that an increase of $1,432,214 is attributed to the Clerk, Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, Sheriff and Supervisor of Elections. Chairman Bird noted that we are in the process of constructing a new courthouse facility. There will not be a debt service on it because sales tax funds have been accumulated. However, there will be a need for additional personnel from the Sheriff's department and the County to staff the courthouse and to operate that building. The courthouse is scheduled to open on June 1 of this coming fiscal year. Chairman Bird asked the Administrator to list the proposed new employees and where they are going. Administrator Chandler stated that the tax budget includes 13 additional positions. Buildings & Grounds has 2 new employees scheduled to begin just prior to the opening of the courthouse. They will be employed specifically to handle the sophisticated air conditioning and HVAC system so we do not have sick building problems. One position in the General Fund budget is in the Clerk's department and two additional employees are in the Property Appraiser's office. One additional planner position will be funded totally by an Economic Development Grant from the federal government, so no direct tax dollars are involved. Traffic Engineering will employ a new signal technician which falls within the Transportation Budget. We have expanded the number of traffic signals and after power outages, we need someone with the ability to restart the lights in a timely fashion. Six additional paramedic positions in the Emergency Services District are tied to the recently approved emergency services equalization plan. Fire - EMS Stations #4 and #7 lack rescue personnel and in some instances, fire fighters man the rescue vehicle on emergency calls. Those rescue vehicles should be manned by rescue personnel to avoid a conflict when there is a call for both fire and rescue. Within the remainder of the budget there are 15 additional positions in the Utilities Department and Solid Waste Disposal District with no increases in rates. So, within the total budget we have 28 new positions; 13 within the ad valorem tax budget and 15 in non -ad valorem tax budgets. There is a change in the library budget where 4 part-time positions will be increased to full-time. That does not result in additional positions but there is additional expense. 18 M M M M M M Chairman Bird pointed out that the 15 positions in Utilities and other enterprise accounts are not funded by ad valorem tax, and Administrator Chandler emphasized that there will be no increase in rates in either of those areas. Chairman Bird thought it was important to point out that these budget figures include a proposed 2 percent cost of living increase for existing county employees. Only employees that fall under the jurisdiction of the County Commission will be affected by a decision of the Board regarding that salary increase, but the constitutional officers have followed the Board's lead in the past as far as giving raises or not, and they have indicated that they would do so again. Administrator Chandler stated that the 2 percent salary increase contingency for employees under the Board's jurisdiction is $322,000. That plus salary increases for constitutional officers' employees would total $721,000. Chairman Bird stated that the Board has the option of making cuts either by identifying particular areas and directing staff to handle the cuts, or decide on a lump sum and direct staff to recommend alternative areas; we have done it both ways in the past. Commissioner Adams agreed that there is a need for cuts. The public has indicated that there is a point at which government becomes too expensive. Some people have reached a breaking point and cannot afford it anymore. We have to make priorities because we cannot provide all the services we have been asked to provide at the levels we feel are necessary. We must either prioritize or make across-the-board cuts. Even if we get the millage down, we are still faced with increased assessments. We have no control over assessments, we have no power over the Property Appraiser, and the state did that so that he could be independent. Some people spoke of 20, 30, 40 percent increases in appraised value. Commissioner Adams reported that there are homes in Fellsmere where assessments were increased to a point that they no longer are affordable housing. We keep taxing them out of the affordable housing. The Board must be accountable and we must cut the budget. We cannot do everything for everybody, and taxpayers cannot pay for everything we request. Unless there are blatant places to cut -- staff did a great job cutting out $3 million before the Board looked at it and the Board cut some more -- obviously we need to pick a percentage figure and do an across-the-board cut. The department heads would be responsible to choose what they can live without for next fiscal year. Commissioner Macht thought that an across-the-board cut is very easy and very popular but not very responsible. Some 19 BOOK 90 PAGE 487 BOOK 90 PAGE 488 departments are operating at minimum or even on the down side of that, and a 10 percent cut may put them out of business and rob the public of a vital service. He thought that each department should be analyzed separately. We may not be able to control assessments, or what the Property Appraiser does, but the people have a right to know what he does. Commissioner Macht stated that he would like to see a geographic analysis of the assessments throughout the county because he suffered a considerable increase in his assessment, and he was sure everybody else would like that information. He observed that government seems to be unable to convey to the public the message of the plans we are responsible for and the method we use to discharge them. He noted the misunderstanding regarding the 3 percent cap, which is really the 3 percent cap on increases in assessments and is quite different from a tax cap. The differential in assessments this year is most likely an effort to forestall the consequences of the 3 percent cap in the future. He cautioned that assessments on property which is rapidly accreting in actual value can be increased only at that 3 percent. As a result, most of us with average assessed values will pay a disproportionately higher amount than the higher valued property. Commissioner Macht affirmed that there are many things beyond our control and the Board members have done the best we can with what we have. Perhaps we should make a greater effort to work with the whole vertical structure of government. There are many things we want to do; others we are forced to do in the form of mandates. We congratulated ourselves a few years back when the legislature passed a law saying they cannot pass unfunded mandates with less than three quarters of the legislature voting, but there are many ways of doing it de facto by passing regulations for non-productive environmental regulations. A lot of it is vital; a lot of it is not productive but we are saddled with it. One example is the 6 new employees for the Solid Waste Disposal District. Commissioner Macht pointed out that salaries for those employees are not seen in the General Fund but they will show up in the rates. He asked the public to remember that the Board members are ordinary people trying to struggle through a very difficult process. Government includes not only the Board but the public as well, and the Board has a responsibility to include the public in the budget process. The public must realize that when we build a new courthouse or library, we pay for it one time, but there are additional operating costs that never go away and never decrease. Commissioner Macht assured the public that the Commissioners confront those problems everyday and take that responsibility very seriously. 20 ® M M Administrator Chandler was concerned about an across-the-board cut because some departments have been cut already. He thought that if -the Commissioners were thinking of a flat percentage amount to be cut from the total budget, staff could show the alternative ways to achieve that. Commissioner Tippin agreed with Commissioner Macht's comments. He recalled that during the budget workshop, we received over 20 non-profit requests, ten of which were denied totally. Commissioner Tippin was born in Indian River County and recalled times when there were no ambulances and only volunteer fire fighters who helped everyone, and no taxes were paid for those services. Now we have one of the finest ambulance squads in the state and it must be paid for, along with all the other services provided in the county. He agreed we must cut the budget further, but not through an across-the-board percentage decrease. He felt that no matter how long it takes, we must analyze each department and consider priorities before making further cuts. Commissioner Macht suggested using the current year's budget figures for the proposed budget, plus or minus some hot spots, and he clarified that "across-the-board" includes constitutional officers. OMB Director Joe Baird pointed out that only 24.2 percent of the General Fund is for departments under the control of the Commission. The rest are constitutional officers, state agencies, and judges. Administrator Chandler cautioned that the Commission has no alternative on certain items like the Medicaid budget which has increased $67,206. Chairman Bird stated that his goal is to cut an additional $1 million from the aggregate budget because it all cannot come out of the General Fund. In an effort to remove a burden from the County Administrator, and realizing he would not be popular with a lot of people with whom he worked daily, he suggested that one of the few possibilities for reduction is to eliminate the two percent salary increase for county employees. The County Administrator made that recommendation to the Board in the beginning of the budget process and the Board chose to grant the two percent salary increase. If the constitutional officers followed the Board's action, that would cut approximately $700,000. Another possible reduction is to cut the 6 new paramedic positions. He emphasized that he would not make that recommendation if he thought it would decrease the level of emergency services which the people of our county deserve. This is a very tough budget year and the people are telling us here tonight that they cannot afford an increased level of service. 21 BOOK 90 F'AGE 4�9 L_ SSP � �9� SEP 81993 BOOK 9fl wu 490 They are willing to maintain the level of service that they had in the past. Administrator Chandler agreed, and felt that if the salary increase contingency for employees under the Commission's jurisdiction is cut, the salary increase for constitutional officers' employees should be cut also; no one should be immune. Even though they have the right to appeal, they probably would not prevail. Commissioner Eggert argued that the additional paramedic positions would not raise the level of emergency service. It would bring those two stations up to the same service that the average citizen would get in any other station. She asked that Emergency Services paramedics be prioritized, and if they absolutely must take another hit, so be it, but they have been cut $300,000 already. Commissioner Adams led -discussion regarding the increase to the Sheriff's budget. She felt that if we are cutting the Emergency Services, the Sheriff's budget should be analyzed also. Commissioner Adams asked, and Administrator Chandler clarified that to get back to the rolled -back rate we must cut the General Fund $1.9 million. The aggregate, which includes General Fund, MSTU, Transportation and Emergency Services, must be cut $2.3 million. OMB Director Baird cautioned that we must be careful in making cuts because some departments have gotten their requests in the past when others have not. Chairman Bird led discussion reaardina the hudapt fuer Emergency Services. Administrator Chandler stated that there is a $438,000 increase in the Emergency Services budget, $228,000 of which is for the 6 additional paramedic positions. Additionally, we have the planned construction of the Grand Harbor Fire -EMS Station and the related salary contingency. He noted that the revenues from refund of ambulance services is up to about $217,000 and there is an increase in cash forward. Discussion ensued regarding postponing the start of construction of the Grand Harbor Fire -EMS Station. It was noted that there was a cash contribution from Grand Harbor to the County for the station and the County committed to begin construction within this coming fiscal year. Commissioner Eggert pointed out that discussions regarding the Grand Harbor Fire -EMS Station included the possibility of revising that district to consider the current economic situation, and she hoped to delay that station to address those points. 22 Commissioner Adams agreed with Commissioner Macht that we should cut back to last year's figures. Commissioner Bird liked that idea also but did not want to put the burden on the Administrator. He was sure that if there had been $2 million available to cut, it would have been cut. Commissioner Adams led discussion regarding the new construction and the increase in existing property values which added almost 6 percent to the tax base over last year. Director Baird explained that the reappraisals on existing properties work against us for the purpose of millage. If the appraised value on existing property goes up, millage goes down to achieve the same amount of revenue as last year. Discussion ensued regarding the relationship of new construction to rolled -back millage rate, and Director Baird explained that even with our revenues dropping, we must deliver services because the public still wants the ambulance, the police and the fire truck to arrive promptly. The Advanced Life Support revenue has increased but it is difficult to track because we never know when the law may change as to how much we can charge for ambulance runs. Discussion ensued regarding the $1.9 million versus the $2.3 million cut. Director Baird cautioned that revenues are down and there are certain additional expenses, like Medicaid, court costs and the new courthouse. We will have to cut services and lay people off in order to cut that $1.9 million. Commissioner Eggert asked about cutting the budget $1 million, or two-tenths of a mill, and Director Baird felt that a million dollar cut is attainable. He further commented that if we cut constitutional officers' salary increases for their employees along with County employees and they appeal to the state, they probably would not prevail. Commissioner Eggert asked if the target would be to cut two- tenths of a mill, and Administrator Chandler confirmed that two- tenths of a mill is $1,092,000. Commissioner Tippin emphasized that his intention is to cut the increases, not to reduce the level of service. Chairman Bird explained that if we direct Administrator Chandler to decrease the budget, he and Director Baird will make recommendations. The constitutional officers will have an opportunity to appear before the Board to agree or disagree with the proposed cuts. Administrator Chandler agreed that if the Board's direction is to cut two-tenths of a mill, which is $1,092,000, staff could 23 800K 9® FAF. 4,91 "A SEP 8 1993 BOOK 90 ur, 92 recommend various alternatives to achieve that. Part of that recommendation would be that the constitutional officers' employee salary raises should be cut. Staff would attempt to present a number of alternatives and the Board can set priorities. MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Tippin, to direct the County Administrator to go through the budget and recommend alternative ways to cut two tenths of a mill from the proposed millage rate. Under discussion, Commissioner Macht wanted the application to be based on last year's budget, and Administrator Chandler assured the Board that he would consider the areas which were increased. Discussion ensued regarding the motion to amend the budget. Commissioner Eggert did not want to give the public the impression that we are adopting this budget as presented. Attorney Vitunac agreed with Administrator Chandler that the ad in the newspaper should read that the direction to the Board is to reduce the budget figures by two tenths of a mill, or whatever the Board decides, but keep the existing numbers because they are accurate, and at the September 15 meeting staff will show exactly how we can arrive at the numbers the Board wants. The newspaper ad should reflect that these numbers will be reduced. COMMISSIONER EGGERT WITHDREW THE MOTION ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative aggregate Ad Valorem millage rate of 7.1140 (6.54% above the rolled -back millage rate) for FY 1993-94, and directed the County Administrator to recommend alternative ways to reduce the budget figures to result in a two-tenths reduction in the millage rate. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget for the Ad Valorem Funds for FY 1993-94, and directed the County Administrator to recommend alternative ways to reduce the budget figures to result in $1,092,000 reduction in the aggregate budget. 24 s � r ADOPTION OF NON -AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT CHARGES Solid Waste Disposal District Administrator Chandler presented the following: 6. Solid Waste Disposal District Budget (Non -Ad Valorem Special District) A. Announce 1993/94 Proposed Charge and Budget a. $35.32 per Waste Generation Units b. $8,520,999 Budget B. Receive comments from the Public C. Consider any Proposed Amendments D. Adopt Tentative Charge and Budget ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved a tentative waste generation unit of $35.32 for the Solid Waste Disposal District for FY 1993-94. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved a tentative budget of $8,520,999 for the Solid Waste Disposal District for FY 1993-94. ADOPTION OF NON -AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT CHARGES Street Lighting Districts OMB Director Joe Baird announced the following rates per parcel/acre for the Street Lighting Districts: 25 BOOK �® F,� 493 L -SEP 81993 a. Vero Lake Estates M.S.T.U. Street Lighting Districts b. Gifford c. Laurelwood d. Rockridge e. Vero Highlands f. Porpoise Point g. Laurel Court h. Tierra Linda i. Vero Shores j. Ixora Park k. Royal Poinciana 1. Roseland Road m. Walker's Glen n. Glendale Lakes o. Floralton Beach BOOK 90 Pi,494 Charge Per Parcel/Acre $ 15.00 $ 19.50 $ 22.00 $ 15.00 $ 20.00 $ 30.00 $ 33.00 $ 42.00 $ 26.00 $ 23.00 $ 28.00 $ 6.00 $ 40.50 $ 24.00 $ 32.50 The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard in this matter. Jeff Diggs, 1908 First Place Southwest, Eastview Gardens in the Ixora Park Street Lighting District, asked how the County arrived at the method of charging per parcel/acre. OMB Director Joe Baird explained that any fraction over one acre is charged double the rate, any fraction over two acres is charged triple. Mr. Diggs stated that he looked at the tax roll and believes he is the only one in the area being charged three times the rate. He does not see how acreage relates because he does not receive any more benefit than his neighbor who pays for one parcel/acre. County Attorney Charles vitunac explained that the benefit is not how much light falls in how much area. There is a direct relationship to acreage. We use the common denominator of one acre and it seems to work. Mr. Diggs claimed that he has frontage of 80 feet and everyone else has 100 feet or at least equal to 80 feet. Director Baird conceded that none of the assessment methods are 100 percent fair, but we feel that this is the fairest method 26 available. Mr. Diggs' case may be an exception, but in order to accommodate him we would have to change our whole method of calculating the street lighting district, which would present a problem. County Administrator Jim Chandler advised that every street lighting district on the list is charged on a per parcel/acre basis. He recounted that two years ago this same argument was raised, and the Board concluded that while no method is 100 percent equitable, the per parcel/acre method is the most equitable. Administrator Chandler gave the example of the Gifford Street Lighting District where the owner of undeveloped property was charged on a per acre basis. Chairman Bird noted that the per parcel/acre method is used consistently because the theory is that a larger piece of property derives more benefit. Even though there may be only one residence on the property, there is potential for more value. He also explained that street lighting in a subdivision creates additional value to all the property, and if it increases the value one percent for a parcel which is three -tenths of an acre, then Mr. Diggs receives ten times that value and yet is paying only three times the rate. Attorney Vitunac advised that the Board is the Equalization Board. In order for Mr. Diggs to get relief, he has the burden to prove his special circumstance. That proof could be a diagram of the property or something to show that this is an exception to the rule. Administrator Chandler noted that if the Board were to make an adjustment on this parcel, the entire street lighting district would be affected and the cost would have to be recalculated for all the property owners, because the County merely passes on the actual costs of the power and the amortization of the poles and fixtures. The County went through an exhaustive study and had discussions with FPL and the City of Vero Beach in an attempt to have them deal directly with the property owners for street lights, but we could not arrive at an agreement. Director Baird pointed out that it is too late this year to make a change. He contended that Mr. Diggs makes a good case, but everyone in that district could make the same argument because each parcel is a different size. Mr. Diggs suggested that if it is too late to get relief this year, perhaps the Board can put it on the agenda for next year and remedy the situation for the one percent of the owners who do not get fair representation or service charges. 27 BOOK 90 PAGE 4,95 .Up R IM BOOK 90 Fa,UF 496 situation with Public Works Director Jim Davis immediately to get it worked out for next year. It was determined that no one else wished to be heard and the Chairman closed the public hearing. Commissioner Eggert led discussion regarding an increase in brightness in the lighting in the Gifford Street Lighting District, particularly on 45th Street. Director Baird advised that both FPL and City of Vero Beach are involved in that district, and staff is working on that. ON MOTION by Commissioner Tippin, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative per parcel/acre charges for FY 1993-94 as announced and as listed above. Approve Non -Ad Valorem Dollar Budgets Administrator Chandler presented the following: a. Housing Authority $ 979740 b. Other Debt Service Fund $ 11,382,424 C. Capital Projects $ 13,780,000 d. Other Special Revenue Funds $ 20,943,947 e. Enterprise Funds $ 192654,836 f. Internal Service Funds $ 1,883,219 Commissioner Macht announced that he derives some income from the operation of the Housing Authority. He disclosed that information to Assistant County Attorney Terry O'Brien, who advised that there is no conflict of interest. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $97,740 for the Housing Authority for FY 1993-94. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $1,382,424 for Other Debt Service Fund for FY 1993-94. 28 ON MOTION by Commissioner Tippin, SECONDED by Commissioner Macht, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $13,780,000 for Capital Projects for FY 1993-94. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Tippin, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $20,943,947 for Other Special Revenue Funds for FY 1993-94. ON MOTION by Commissioner Adams, SECONDED by Commissioner Tippin, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $19,654,836 for Enterprise Funds for FY 1993-94. ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by Commissioner Adams, the Board unanimously approved the tentative budget of $1,883,219 for Internal Service Funds for FY 1993-94. Announce Time and Place of Final Budget Hearing Chairman Bird announced that the Final Budget Hearing will be held at 5:01 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 1993 in the Commission Chambers. There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. ATTEST: '�� pt"-� - J. arton, Clerk 29 Ric and N. Bird, Chairman BOOK 90 F'acE 497