HomeMy WebLinkAbout4/28/1994MINUTES ATTACHED
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA
AGENDA
SPECIAL MEETING
THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 1994
9:00 A.M. - COUNTY COMMISSION CHAMBER
COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
1840 25TH STREET
VERO BEACH, FLORIDA
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
John W. Tippin, Chairman (Dist. 4)
Kenneth R. Macht, Vice Chairman (Dist. 3)
Fran B. Adams (Dist. 1)
Richard N. Bird (Dist. 5)
Carolyn K. Eggert ( Dist. 2 )
James E. Chandler, County Administrator
Charles P. Vitunac, County Attorney
Jeffrey K. Barton, Clerk to the Board
9: 00 A.M. 1. Consideration of Proposed Sales Tax Program -
Second 5 Years
2. Proposed Six Year Emergency Services Plan Revision
ANYG WHO MAY WISH TO APPEAL ANY' 'DEC`ISION WHICH MAY BE MADE
AT THIS MEETING WILL NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF
THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE WHICH - INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND
EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL WILL BE BASED.
1C.
ANYONE WHO NEEDS A SPECIAL "ACCOMMODATION FOR THIS MEETING MAY
CONTACT THE COUNTY'S AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES 'ACT (ADA)
COORDINATOR AT 567-8000 X 408 AT LEAST 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF
MEETING.
J
SPECIAL MEETING
Thursday, April 28, 1994
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 Thursday, April 28, 1994,
at 9:00 a.m. Present were John W. Tippin, Chairman; Kenneth R.
Macht, Vice Chairman; Fran B. Adams; Richard N. Bird; and Carolyn
K. Eggert. Also present were James E. Chandler, County
Administrator; Charles P. Vitunac, County Attorney; and Diane
Albin, Deputy Clerk.
The Chairman called the meeting to order.
OPTIONAL SALES TAX - SECOND FIVE YEARS
The hour of 9:00 a.m. having passed, the County Attorney
announced that this public hearing has been properly advertised as
• •Florida 32961 562-2315
INDIANCOUNTY OF
STATE OF FLORMA
Before the undersigned authority personally appeared J.J.
Schumann, Jr. who on oath says that he is Busness Manager
of the
in
Vero Beach Press -Journal, a newspaper published
Indian River County, Florida; that
was published in said newspaper in the issue(s)
ofJ'��
Sworn to and subscribed before me this
day of L A.D
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PUBLIC NOTICE
The Board of County Commissioners will
hold a meeting on the proposed five-year plan
for the one -cent optional sales tax. The meet-
ing will be held at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, April
28, 1994 in the County Commission Chambers,
County Administration Building, 1840 25th
Street, Vero Beach.
The purpose of the meeting will be to dis-
cuss the most productive utilization of the one -
cent optional sales tax over the next• five years.
The public is invited to attend.
Anyone who needs a special accommoda-
tion for this meeting may contact the County's
Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at
567-8000, ext. 223 at least 48 hours in ad-
vance of the meeting.
Anyone who may wish to appeal any deci-
sion which may be made at this meeting will
need to ensure that a verbatim record of the
proceedings is made, which includes testimony
and evidence upon which the appeal is based.
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APR 28 1994
Chairman Tippin announced that the Board would make their
decisions after all the presentations are made.
Administrator Chandler gave the following presentation:
TO: Board of County CommissionersDATE: April 21,-1994 FILE:
SUBJECT' Sales Tax Workshop
Xames
FROM: E. Chandler
nty Administrator REFERENCES:
The Board at the February 23, 1994 workshop considered the proposed
Optional One Cent Sales Tax Program for the second five''years. As a result of
the discussions, the Board requested staff also review the CR510 curve at 90th
Avenue, a north county Health Department facility, and new administration
building. These items, together with a more detailed 800 MHZ presentation,
were to be considered at the next workshop.
Since the initial workshop, two additional factors have also developed which
have a significant influence on the overall program consideration. First, a
determination has been made that only charter counties can utilize. sales tax
funds to refund bonds. As a result, the $3,636,000 recommended for FY 95/96
has been deleted. Recognizing the savings and longer range value in refunding
the bonds, we may want to approach the Legislature next session to request
amendment of the current provision. However, since such an amendment is not
a certainty and call provisions are for FY 95/96 the proposed funding has been
deleted at this time.
The second recent development influencing the program is the consultant
report presented to the Board at the April 5, 1994 meeting, regarding the
Administration Building HVAC system. The consultant recommended a complete
retrofitting of the system at an estimated cost of $1,138,500. This
recommendation raises the obvious question of cost benefit of that expense
coupled with the original $617,000 staff recommended renovations versus the
expense of a new building. Considering the implications of that determination
on the entire program, the issue will be addressed last.
The $300,000 planning grant requested by the Health Department for a
north county facility was not funded by the State Legislature during the past
session. Therefore, considering the uncertain timeframe and funding, the
project has not been incorporated in the proposed program at this time.
As reflected in Exhibit 11, the Public Works Director analyzed the conditions
at the CR 510 and 90th Avenue curve. The conclusion, as will be presented, is
that at the appropriate time the intersection be reconfigured and signalized
rather than increasing the radius of the curve.
Since the first workshop, a further update of the bridge construction
requirements reflects the need for replacement of the bridge on Old Dixie
Highway at the South Relief Canal. As a result, $575,000 is proposed for
consideration.
N
C
Additionally,
can be utilized for
monitoring cost fo
Tax Program.
the determination has also been made that sales tax funding
expenses related to previously closed landfills. The $375,000
r the Gifford Landfill is therefore recommended from the Sales
Exhibit III provides additional information, analysis, and alternatives for
the proposed 800 MHZ system. As submitted, the total system expense has been
reduced by $401,687. The proposed county expense has been reduced by
$528,365 from $4,610,165 to $4,081,800. Of that amount, $3,841,800 has been
proposed for consideration from Sales Tax and $240,000 from E911 revenues. As
reflected in Exhibit III, several alternatives will also be presented for
consideration at the meeting.
As stated previously, the determination. moncerning the Administration
Building is critical in the final configuration of the next five year program.
Unfortunately, there appears to be no absolute clearcut best alternative. There
are strong pro's and con's with respect to every alternative. Exhibit I depicts
two options. Option I provides for the originally proposed renovations, and the
HVAC retrofitting at a cost of $1,755,500, as well as final land acquisition/design
for a new building at a total expense of $3,147,500 during the next five years.
Construction of a new facility would commence in the first year of the final five
years of the program. Option 2 assumes construction of a new building in the
next five years and deletes the renovations and HVAC retrofitting. The
estimates are derived directly from the 1991 VOA Space Need Study Master Plan.
As reflected in Exhibit IV, utilizing the VOA figures, the net estimated expense
would be $12,050,254. If this option is pursued, considering the $5,000,000
required for the courthouse finalization, the $23,287,700 in other projects under
consideration would need to be prioritized and reduced by $8,369,619.
As indicated previously, when considering the administration building
alternatives, there are drawbacks with any approach selected. However, Option
1 on balance more adequately addresses overall needs and is more consistent with
the goals presented in the original 1989 plan ( Exhibit V) . The subject will be
more fully elaborated on at the April 28th workshop.
JEC/mg
APR 2 8 1994
01
BOOK 92 PAGE .308
1
1
REVISION OPTION 1
RECOMMENDED OPTIONAL SALES TAX PROGRAM FOR SECOND FIVE YEAR
(JUNE 1, 1993 TO SEPTEMBER 30,1999)
EX H I B IT I
C.%V3RWNECEN aECLS MWKI
REVISED: 6421-% -10:00 A.M.
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(3) TOTAL WITHOUT COURTHOUSE
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(2) TOTAL WITH COURTHOUSE
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REVISION OMON a - NEW ADMMSTRATIVE BURD114G
RECOMMENDED OPTIONAL SALES TAR PROGRAM FOR SECOND FIVE YEAR
(JUNE 1,1993 TO SEPTEMBER 30,1999)
1
1
11
80M. 9? PACE 311
APR 28 1994
EXH I B IT V
TO: Memtiers of the Board
of County Commissioners
DATE: January 19, 1994
SUBJECT: OPTIONAL SALES TAX - SECOND FIVE YEARS
FROM: James E. Chandler' Joseph A. Baird
County Administrator OMB Director
Background Information
Chapter 87-239 Laws of Florida initiated the "Local Government Infrastructure Commitment
Act", which allowed counties to levy, for a period of up to fifteen years, a one cent tax on
all transactions subject to taxation under Chapter 212.054 of the Florida statutes. In order
to enact the surtax, an ordinance must be passed by the majority of the members of the
Board of County Commissioners and then approved by a majority of votes in a referendum
or passed by governing bodies of municipalities, representing a majority of the County's
population, and approved by a majority of voters in a referendum.
The Optional Sales Tax revenues are distributed to Indian River County and to the Cities
within the County based on the same formula provided for under Chapter 218.62 Florida
Statutes. This means Indian River County and the municipalities (Vero Beach, Sebastian,
Indian River Shores, Town of Orchid and Fellsmere) shall receive a proportion of monies
earmarked for distribution within the County. The proportion each municipal government
receives is computed by dividing the population of that municipality by the sum of the total
County population plus two-thirds of the incorporated areas' population. The county's
portion is computed by dividing the sum of the unincorporated area's population plus two-
thirds of the incorporated area population by the sum of the total County population plus
two-thirds of the incorporated areas' population. According to the information provided by
the State, in the 1993/94 year the revenue breakdown will be as follows:
Indian River County
'55,637,867
Vero Beach
111901265
Sebastian
789,439
Indian River Shores
161,450
Fellsmere
155,513
Town of Orchid
1,160
TOTAL
$7,935,694
'We budget 95% of the estimated amount
Proceeds of the surtax may be expended on infrastructure as defined in the bill as "any
fixed capital expenditure or fixed capital costs associated with the construction,
reconstruction or improvement of public facilities which have a life expectancy of 5 or more
years and any land acquisition, land improvement, design and engineering costs related
thereto."
6
al is
In the late 1980's Indian. River County found itself in an infrastructure dilemma when
developing its Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Based on the capital improvement
element at that time, the County had over $400 million of infrastructure improvements
over the next twenty years and was seeking adequate revenue sources to meet the levels
of service set -forth. A review was begun of additional revenue alternatives available to
fund future infrastructure needs.
After- studying the alternatives, Indian River County found the Optional Sales Tax
appealing for the following reasons:
1. FAIR ALTERNATIVE - ALL USERS CONTRIB - Everyone pays,
including tourists and non-residents; not just the property owners of Indian
River County. The roads and other infrastructure within the County are built
for peak demand. Tourists and non-residents use the County's roads, parks,
and facilities. Optional Sales Tax does not hit just one specific group of people,
unlike user or impact fees. .
2. DOLLARS GENERATED - There were no other revenue sources, besides ad
valorem taxes, that could generate approximately $7 million a year in revenues.
3. INCLUDED EXEMPTIONS - Sales tax is exempted on purchases of medicine
and food.
4. CITIES AND COUNTY SHARE - The sales tax is not just received by the
County. The Cities get a proportionate share to help them in their
infrastructure needs.
S. PAY AS YOU GO - It gave Indian River County the ability to pay for capital
improvements with existing available funds, possibly augmented by short-term
borrowings. This would eliminate the need for ten or forty year debt for these
type projects and would substantially reduce overall cost of capital
improvements by not having to pay huge financing costs (interest) over a long
period .of time.
6. _USED FOR NEEDED CAPITAL PROJECTS -Money could be used for jails,
roads, parks and health facilities which would have to* be built regardless if an
optional sales tax was in place or not. This would place a burden on other
resources (i.e., ad valorem taxes).
7. MaNEY-CANNOT-BE USED FOR OPERATING EXPENSES
8. LIMITED TIME PERIOD - It would be in affect for a maximum of fifteen
years.
9. LIKELIHOOD OF STATE GIVING COUNTIES AND CM70 OTHER
ALT=ERNATIVE REVENUE SOURCES - The state is in the same position
as the County. It cannot keep up with capital improvements and is looking for
ways to pay for its infrastructure. In fact, the State mandates mom programs
to the County every day without a revenue stream that will adequately support
them.
APR 2 8 1994 BOOK 92 -a;F.. ` 1?W
APR 2 81994 Boor 92 PA 913
10. MINIMIZE ROAD IMPACT FEE INCREASES - In 1988 the County had
estimated -a shortfall of $60 million dollars to purchase right-of-way and
construct roads over the next twenty years. This cost is figured in the
calculation of road impact fees adding to the cost of construction within the
County.
11. OPTIONAL SALES TAX CHARGED UP TO CAP OF $5,000-00 IN
PURCHASES (PER TRANSACTION) - (A maximum optional additional sales
tax paid on each item purchased of $50.00.)
Conclusion
The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners, on January 31, 1989 passed
ordinance 89-6 calling for a county -wide referendum on the levy of the one cent sales tax
to be held on Tuesday, March 14, 1989. Shortly thereafter the Optional Sales Tax was
endorsed by every City within Indian River County. The Chamber of Commerce, Taxpayers
Association, Civic Association, Gifford Progressive League, Board of Realtors, Association
of General Contractors and the Treasure Coast Home Builders Association all endorsed the
Optional Sales Tax at that time. The voters passed the Optional Sales Tax to go into effect
June 1, 1989. (60.3% voted for the tax and 39.7% voted against the tax.)
When promoting the Optional Sales Tax, the Indian River County Board of County
Commissioners put additional constraints on the use of the sales tax by promising that
proceeds would be used only for essential capital projects that the County would have used
tax dollars to complete (i.e. ad valorem, gas tax). It was also emphasized that in the future
a good portion of Optional Sales Tax would go towards the purchase of right-of-way and
roads to help offset the deficit in the Comprehensive Plan. An additional commitment was
made to have a list of projects approved in five year intervals by the Board of County
Commissioners in a public hearing. The projects for the first five years were the Jail (Phase
III), Health Department Building and Courthouse. All projects have been completed with
the exception of the Courthouse scheduled to be finished in the summer of 1994.
The planning of the second five year list of projects has been initiated. The Budget Office
requested a list of major projects from each department with the projected estimated cost,
the year it will be needed, beginning construction date, length of construction time and
estimated annual operating costs for five years after project completion.
As expected, more projects were submitted than -there was money available in the second
five years. The County Administrator and Budget office reviewed the requests and have
recommended projects that were felt to be consistent with the original plan. During the
review process, a significant emphasis was placed on the projects' affect on the County's
operating budget. The net affect of projects recommended will result in a net operating cost
increase of only. 5517,375 over the next five years.
Attached is a list of the recommended projects for the Board of County Commissioners
review. A general overview will be presented at the January 25, 1994 Board meeting. Prior
to scheduling the public bearing, it is anticipated a more detailed explanation would be
presented and Board direction provided at a subsequent meeting or workshop.
s
_ M
Emergency Services Director Doug Wright presented Exhibit III
from Administrator Chandler's memo, which included the following
information:
TO: Honorable Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: Jim Chandler, C unty Administrator
FROM: Doug Wright, irector
Department of Emergency Services
DATE: April 16, 1994
SUBJECT: Information on 800 MHz Trunked Radio Communication System
On June 8, 1993, the Board authorized staff to obtain cost
information from consultants to complete a comprehensive study of
the various communications systems in the county. The process was
completed and on August 17, 1993, the Board approved the selection
of a consultant, subsequently awarding a contract to Pallans.
Associates on September 14, 1993. Pallans Associates completed the
county -wide communications study and made a formal presentation to
the Board on December. 14, 1993. The recommendation from the
consultant was for the County to transition to an 800 MHz Trunked
Radio System. The Board conceptually approved. the project and
directed staff to determine specific cost and other applicable
information for a final determination to be made.
Prior to finalization of the cost information by staff, the Board
held a workshop on February 23, 1994, regarding allocation of the
One Cent Optional Sales Tax revenue for the next five years. The
Board considered the staff proposal that funding for the
infrastructure of the communications system and the county
(administration and Sheriff's Department) user equipment be funded
from this revenue source. The Board concluded that additional. and
more in depth information was needed before a decision could be
made in terms of approving/funding.the radjo system.
There are approximately twelve hundred'. (1200 j ' radios of one type or
another in operation in Indian River County at this time. Many of
them are 1950's vintage of .manufacture, although there are some
1970's vintage in use. - Many of these radios, repeaters,
controllers, etc., do not function well and require close attention
in terms of maintenance to keep them operationally at their peak as
best that can be accomplished.
Replacements are under consideration now by some of the public
safety departments. The - Board has been prior informed by the
consultant that the many dead spots, frequency interference, and
down time of existing equipment is a major concern to public safety
agencies. As the number of radios have grown, the radio channels
have become more and more congested.
Considering the vintage of equipment, its operational capability,
and potential impact of the FCC, ref arming project (see Exhibits
3-10 attached), anticipated expense to move to narrowband
equipment, and understanding that a substantial outlay is going to
be required just to maintain the old technology now if nothing is
done in terms of 'obtaining equipment with new technology, a
critical time has approached Indian River County. The question of
how the County plans to meet its existing and future radio
communication needs. to be considered and planned for now.
9
APR 28 1994 Boos 92 Farr `314
i
3m92, PAuF .115.
A�� 2� 1�9�
There are over thirty (30) known radio licenses with 124 channels
or frequencies associated with public safety in Indian River
County. There is no way the various agencies and systems can be
tied together to achieve interoperability and effective use of the
communications should a disaster occur, or just on a day to day
basis when agencies -need to talk to more than one entity.
Like many counties across the country, tight budgets and parochial
thinking among agencies have spawned dozens 'of separate
communications systems acquired over the years. Each agency has
its own frequencies and purchased various types of equipment when
they needed it without much thought to interoperability issues. At
some emergency scenes now, it is easier to yell at. personnel to
exchange information than to use the radios because of the
inability to talk to one another without going through dispatchers.
Today, there is more interest being shown than ever by local and
state governments and federal agencies in the need for radio
interoperability between agencies. It has become a critical issue
for everyday operations, including ongoing federal, state and local
efforts, involving major criminal investigations and drug task
force operations, as well as in major disasters and public events.
Interoperability would allow state police to talk to drug
enforcement agencies, local law enforcement departments, even fire,
emergency management and emergency medical services, all operating
at the same emergency incident.
It is- clear the country is moving from analog signals for
transmission of voice messages to -a combination of digital voice
and data transmission technology. Analog signals are electrical
energy in a communications system which varies continuously in
amount and/or frequency in accordance with the characteristics of
a signal, such as voice into a microphone, put into -the system.
Digital means signals which take voice or computer data and convert
them into bursts of radio energy representing ones and zeros. (or
ons and offs). These burst of energy are then converted back into
their original form at the receiving end in order to be heard or
read.
An example of digital/data transmission (without a voice) is when
one pushes a button on a radio to let the receiving station know
the sender is in or out of service, to request an ambulance, fire
equipment, law enforcement assistance, check for outstanding
warrants on an individual, obtain vehicle registrations, access
FCIC, NCIC,-change traffic signals at intersections, obtain meter
readings,. all possible from a vehicle without using voice
capabilities.
Digital voice radio also improves radio spectrum efficiency by
dividing a radio channel into two or more individual channels and
integrating voice and data transmissions in the same channel's
signal instead of having to use two separate radio channels.
Digital technology is.here now and will be much more prominent in
the future.
Given the information provided above, there are various
alternatives for the Board to consider regarding current and future
communications systems.
10
With the assistance of an overhead projector, Director Wright
presented an in-depth analysis of the advantages and disadvantages
of each of the following 7 alternatives:
COMMUNICATIONS ALTERNATIVES
1. Do not take advantage of the trunked radio technology and do
not reserve frequencies now available.
2. Retain the existing VHF and UHF radio systems now in use and
replace with narrowband equipment when required to do so by
the FCC.
3. Expand existing facilities as additional conventional UHF and
VHF frequencies become available.
4. Contract with a Specialized' Mobile Radio (SMR) licensee to
provide the infrastructure for a monthly recurring fee.
5. Expand the existing county 800 MHz radio system for county
departments only, rather than funding the infrastructure for
a county -wide communications system.
6. Approve, fund and implement an 800 MHz trunked county -wide
radio communications system.
7. Approve, fund and implement an 800 MHz trunked county -wide
radio communications system for public safety agencies only.
Director Wright advised the Board that Mark Pallans, the
consultant who performed the 800 MHz study, was present at the
meeting to answer any questions the Board might have.
Director Wright then projected the following cost analysis of
the 7 alternatives:
EXHIBIT III, "800 MHz TRUNKED RADIO SYSTEM
AND COMMUNICATION ALTERNATIVES 11
IS ON FILE IN THE EMERGENCY SERVICE DISTRICT OFFICE
11 BOOK 92 NUT •)�
APR 2 8 1994
...:°
, ::.COST'ANALYSIS
ALTERNATNE
INFRASTRUCTURE
? USEREQUIPMENT,
.: COUNT'Y. PORTION
, "TOTAL
#1
-0-
-0-
-0-
#2
NO AVAIL. QUOTES
$1,089,450.
$718,250.
$718,250.+
#3
NO AVAIL. QUOTES
NO AVAIL.
NO AVAIL.
NO AVAIL.
QUOTES
QUOTES
QUOTES
#4
NO AVAIL. QUOTES
$2,766,000.
$1,606,300.
$1,606,300.+
#5
$100,000.
-0-
$100,000.
$100,000.
#6
$2,475,b00.
$2,766,000.
$1,606,300.
$5,241,500.
#7
$2,277,600.
$1,716,200.
$1,265,600.
$3,993,800.
EXHIBIT III, "800 MHz TRUNKED RADIO SYSTEM
AND COMMUNICATION ALTERNATIVES 11
IS ON FILE IN THE EMERGENCY SERVICE DISTRICT OFFICE
11 BOOK 92 NUT •)�
APR 2 8 1994
APR 2 8 1994 goon 92 FacF317
Commissioner Macht asked whether the alternatives include
contributions of municipalities and agencies towards the cost of
the infrastructure.
Director Wright responded that the municipalities and agencies
will pay only for their own user equipment. Consideration was
given to asking the municipalities and agencies to contribute to
the cost of the infrastructure, but given the availability of sales
tax money to which everyone in the community contributes, staff
determined that this would be an appropriate use of those funds.
The portion of the sales tax revenues that are returned to the
municipalities can be used to fund their user equipment. Director
Wright mentioned that the Mosquito Control District does not want
to participate in the project at this time because they rent their
own 800 MHz equipment, but he pointed out that the Mosquito Control
District could have recovered their capital costs in a 3 -year
period and eliminated that recurring expense by purchasing the
equipment.
Lengthy discussion ensued concerning specific items in the
cost estimates.
Captain John Gisler, Director of Administration at the
Sheriff's Department, urged the Board to purchase a county -wide 800
MHz system. He reported that on 58 occasions during 1993, the
Sheriff's Department lost communication on one or more of its
channels. He stressed that it may not be possible to evacuate
people who live on the barrier islands in the event of a hurricane
because of the shortcomings of the existing system. He was fearful
that the Sheriff's Department might lose a deputy because of the
inability to call for backup.
Mark Pallans, Pallans and Associates, gave a slide
presentation demonstrating the advantages of an 800 MHz system. He
related that a major advantage would be the 2 backup towers, which
would be needed in the event the primary tower is knocked down
during a major disaster. Mr. Pallans then gave a technical
explanation about how calls would be prioritized so that non-
emergency calls could be bumped by emergency calls if necessary.
Mr. Pallans stated that 800 MHz systems are extremely reliable, and
that after Hurricane Andrew hit Miami the only communication
systems working in that area were the 800 MHz systems.
Commissioner Bird expressed concern that the system would be
obsolete after a few years, because technology in the
communications industry keeps changing rapidly.
Mr. Pallans explained that since the inception of the 800 MHz
trunking system technology about 10 years ago, industry standards
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have been established. The advantage of 800 MHz trunking is its
ability to adapt to new technology, all the emerging technologies
are compatible with the 800 MHz technology, and there is little
likelihood the system would become obsolete within the next 15 to
20 years.
Commissioner Macht led discussion regarding the possibility of
satellites becoming the state of the art in a few years.
Mr. Pallans responded that satellites are not practical.
Louisiana experimented with a prototype satellite system, and the
satellite.dishes for the patrol cars cost $70,000-$90,000 each.
Commissioner Eggert asked, and Director Wright confirmed that
there is a possibility we could reduce costs by getting free use of
the towers owned by Bellsouth Mobility and WTTB.
Commissioner Bird asked whether we are forcing municipalities
to participate by approving the countywide system.
Mr. Pallans explained that the 800 MHz system will have the
ability to interface with conventional equipment until the
municipalities and agencies are able to make the transition.
Commissioner Adams asked about the life expectancy of an 800
MHz system, and Director Wright responded that it should last 20
years or longer. He commented that we may be able to reduce
maintenance costs by negotiating a longer warranty contract with
the vendor. For example, Volusia County was able to negotiate a 3 -
year maintenance contract on its 800 MHz system.
Commissioner Bird asked if the system will be,gble to handle
all the municipalities and agencies in the.,County.
Director Wright explained that there would be plenty of
capacity to handle all potential users, including school buses.
George Shaw, 1060 Reef Road, urged the Board to approve the
800 MHz trunking system because the Emergency Services District
must have adequate equipment to properly handle emergencies.
Al Smith, communication officer for Federal emergency
management in the County and retired professional firefighter,
spoke in favor of an 800 MHz system. He emphasized that the
existing system has dead spots and reliability problems that could
result in loss of life. An efficient system would allow time to
evacuate in the event of a tornado or hurricane. He realized that
many projects are worthy of funding. However, this project has the
potential for saving lives.
Dr. Bob Sabot, president of Indian River Neighborhood Watch,
stated that his organization recommends Alternative 6, approval of
funding and implementation of a county -wide 800 MHz trunked radio
system communications system.
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Bob Stork, owner of Communications International, has a
contract with the County for maintenance of the existing
communication equipment for the County. He pointed out that the
existing equipment is a one -box, one -site system; and when that one
box fails we are off the air, and people's lives are in danger. He
stated that he sees all the problems that occur with ambulances,
deputies, and fire trucks. He stated that the system was installed
in 1976, and he predicted that the problems will only get worse.
He felt certain that FCC Rule 88 will be enacted. Mr. Stork
emphasized that, as a taxpayer, he does not want to see the County
in the position of having to use ad valorem taxes to finance a new
system because we did not take this opportunity to use sales tax
monies that are available. He concluded by stating he has spoken
to many concerned citizens who are in favor of a countywide 800 MHz
system.
Bill Tripp, representing the Vero Beach Firefighters, agreed
that the safety of the citizens of the County is the most important
consideration. The safety of the firefighters and paramedics also
is of major importance, and their safety is being jeopardized by an
inadequate communication system.
Roland Wood, Vero Beach Deputy Chief of Police, stated that he
was asked to attend today's meeting and advise the Board that the
Vero Beach Police Department has tried to find funds to pay for the
City of Vero Beach's portion of an 800 MHz system. However, their
portion of the 1 cent sales tax has already been earmarked for the
next 5 years. The Vero Beach Police Department wanted to get an
800 MHz system in 1986 when money was available, but could not get
the commitment from the other law enforcement agencies so the plans
were scrapped and the funds were spent on the system that the City
currently is using.
Earle Petty, Chief of Police, City of Sebastian, spoke in
favor of the 800 MHz system. He pointed out that Indian River
County has become an island of UHF and VHF equipment surrounded by
counties with 800 MHz equipment, and that it is important to have
a good communication system and to be compatible with other
counties.
Gary Wheeler, Indian River County Sheriff, felt that it would
be a sound business decision for the County to purchase an 800 MHz
system, because spending money to maintain the current system is
throwing good money after bad. He pointed out that good
communication equipment also cuts labor costs.
14
The Board reviewed the Six -Year Emergency Services Plan
Revision Recommendations, which includes the estimated maintenance
costs of the 800 MHz Communications System.
SAID DOCUMENT IS ON FILE
IN THE COUNTY COMMISSION OFFICES
Administrator Chandler announced that the next area of
discussion will be the County Administration Building. He directed
the Board's attention to Exhibit IV:
DATE: APRIL 19, 1994
TO: JAMES E. CHANDLER EXH I B IT IV
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
FROM: H.T. "SONNY- DEAN, DIRECTO
DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES
SUBJECT: VOA STUDY - COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
As per your request, the following information is furnished in
respect to the 1991 VOA study as related to a new county
administration building complex.
Three options for the complex were looked at. Option one was to
locate the new facility north of the present building. Option two
was to move the School District out and renovate the present
facility. Option three was to purchase property and construct a
new building in the downtown area.
COMPARISON OF OPTIONS
OPTION 1: Base Costs
Furnishings
Subtotal
Sale of Buildings
Total Option #1
OPTION 2: Base Costs
Furnishing
Total Option #2
OPTION 3: Base Costs
Furnishings
Total Option #3
$18,012,667
1,284.531
19,297,198
(7,246,994)
iAJ12,050,204
•$16,343,582
1,284,531
$17,628,113
$25,121.227
1,284,831
$26,405,758
Option 1 vs 2 Savings 5,577,907
Option 1 vs 3 Savings 14,355,552
Savings for Option 3 does not reflect loss of tax base for private
property on two city blocks.
It is also important to note that Option 1 includes a new
purchasing warehouse/building maintenance shop/storage facility at
a cost of $2,981,517.
Administrator Chandler emphasized that we have a space needs
and air quality problem in this building. Option 2, construction
of a new County Administration Building, is preferable to Option 1,
spending $1.7 million to renovate and repair the old building. The
question is whether we have the resources to construct a new
building within the time frame involved, considering our other
APR 2 8 1994 15
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needs. StafffIs recommendation would be to construct a new building
if projected sales tax revenues during the next 5 years were
sufficient to meet all of our needs. Unfortunately, the County
would have to reduce other expenditures by more than $8.3 million
in order to have enough money to construct a new building.
Therefore, staff is recommending Option 1 while recognizing that it
is a short-term solution. Option 1 includes the purchase of land
and design of the new facility during the 1997-98 fiscal year and
construction of the new facility as part of the final 5 -year plan.
Commissioner Eggert pointed out the cost of a new County
Administration Building will be higher than $12 million if we do
not find a buyer for the old Courthouse and County Administration
Building.
Administrator Chandler was skeptical of our ability to sell
the 2 buildings for $7.2 million, which was the figure given by
Vickrey/Oversat/Awsumb, Inc., (VOA), the consultants who performed
a study for the County in 1991.
The next topic of discussion was the CR -510 curve at 90th
Avenue, south of Sebastian River High School. Public Works
Director Jim Davis presented Exhibit II, which includes the
following information:
TO: James E. Chandler,
County Administrator E X H I B I T I I
FROM: James W. Davis, P.E.
Public Works Director
SUBJECT: CR510 Curve at 90th Avenue South of Sebastian
River High School
DATE: April 20, 1994 FILE: CUM.A=
DESCRIPTION AND CONDITIONS
During the last Board of County Commissioners workshop considering
the initial draft of the proposed optional sales tax program
project list, staff was requested to prepare a cost analysis and
recommended solution to improve the existing road curvature
condition on CR510 near the new high school site. Staff has
considered several alternatives as presented below:
Alternatives
I. Increase Radius of Curve
The existing curve west of the CR510 bridge spanning the
Sebastian River Water Control District "Ditch D" has a 200'
radius which restricts the speed limit to 25 MPH. Staff has
performed a preliminary cost estimate for the following design
speeds:
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Design Speed Operating Curvature R/W Cost Bridge Road
(MPH) Speed(MPH) Radius w/ (in Millions) Cost Paving
Suver -elevation
65 55 3,000' 21.6 AC $1.688 M $223,000
$433,000
60 50 2,600' 18.7 AC $1.688 M $192,000
$375,000
55 45 2,300' 16.6 AC $1.688 M $168,000
$332,000
50 40 1,800' 13 AC $1.688 M $129,000
$260,000
45 35 1,450' 10.5 AC $1.688 M $102,000
$210,000
Taking the 55 MPH design speed, the cost is $1,688,000 -
Bridge Cost, $332,000 for 16.6 Ac Right-of-way, and road
paving for 168,000.
If any of the above radii are implemented, the increased
roadway curvature will result in 85th Place, 86th Street, and
86th Place intersecting CR510 at location on the curve. These
intersections will demand turning movements within the curve
and would create hazardous site distance conditions,
complicated drainage conditions due to the need for
super -elevation and will require increased right-of-way
acquisition for these intersecting streets.
II. Construct T -intersection at 85th Street(CR510 east/west)
and 90th Avenue (CR510 North/South).
As the approximate 9,000 lots within Vero Lake Estates
Subdivision develop, a large traffic demand will be created
from those vehicles leaving and entering the subdivision. It
is anticipated that at least one, and possibly more signalized
intersections will be required on CR510, to Vero Lake
Estates. A future 3 -way signalk#pd �-'Antet'section at 85th
Street (CR510 east/west alignment). and 90th Avenue(CR510
North/South) connecting to the Vero Lake Estates Subdivision
would substitute the existing 200' radius curve with a
signalized intersection. The cost (not including
signalization) would be approximately $50,000.
III. Do Nothing at this time - Continue to monitor
In the past four years since December 1990, only four
reported accidents occurred at the curve. These
accidents all occurred in 1991. Since that time,
additional safety features have been constructed
including thermoplastic rumble strips, increased signage,
etc. No accidents have been reported (by the Florida
Highway Patrol or IRC Sheriff's Dept.) in 1992, 1993, nor
1994 to date.
Staff would continue to monitor the location and
reconsider an improvement project.
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APR 2 8 1994
RECOMMENDATIONS AND FUNDING
Since no accidents have occurred in the past 21 years, staff
recommends that continued monitoring be approved. No funding is
applicable at this time.
Director Davis showed a graphic of the subject area depicting
the various radii.
Discussion ensued regarding the effect of the various
alternatives on the entrance to Vero Lake Estates.
The consensus of the Board was to follow staff's
recommendation on this matter.
Commissioner Macht asked whether there was a possibility of
including library improvements in the 5 -year plan.
Administrator Chandler responded that the County Attorney's
office issued a new opinion stating that sales tax revenues could
be used for certain capital outlays associated with the library,
such as computer mainframe equipment.
OMB Director Joe Baird commented that the cost of a computer
system that would serve the main library and the North County
branch would be about $150,000.
Commissioner Bird asked whether there would be any flexibility
in the use of funds allocated to Parks and Recreation. He
explained that a meeting is scheduled with Joe Earman, representing
the Firefighters, concerning their request to construct a building
at the Fairgrounds, and that we may wish to have access to sales
tax revenue if matching funds become available.
Administrator Chandler reminded the Board that Option 1 has a
1% contingency fund, which gives us some flexibility.
Commissioner Bird regretted that the County must spend
$375,000 to monitor the closed Gifford landfill, but he realized
that we do not have a choice in that matter.
Administrator Chandler pointed out that the $375,000 just
covers monitoring costs. If a problem arises, the cost could be
higher.
Commissioner Eggert was in favor of Option 1 as far as the
County Administration Building was concerned. As for the 800 MHz
system, she preferred Alternative 6. At a minimum, she wanted to
purchase the system for the public safety departments and phase in
the other departments.
Commissioner Bird also was in favor of Alternative 6 for the
800 MHz system.
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MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by
Commissioner Macht, to proceed with Alternative 6 on
the 800 MHz system.
Under discussion, Chairman Tippin reminded staff that any
action taken by the Board at this workshop does not relieve us of
the responsibility of finding ways to reduce costs.
THE CHAIRMAN CALLED FOR THE QUESTION.
It was voted on and carried unanimously.
MOTION WAS MADE by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by
Commissioner Macht, to proceed with renovation and
repair of the,Administration Building and delete the
allocation of $1.392 million for design of a new
administration building.
Under discussion, Commissioner Macht expressed concern about
decentralization of County departments.
Administrator Chandler agreed that there are drawbacks
associated with moving a department to another location. However,
this will provide a short-term solution to the space problem.
Other space problems may arise during the next 5 years and we will
have to deal with them.
Commissioner Eggert asked whether we could use space in the
old Library and Health Department buildings.
Commissioner Bird suggested using the old State Attorney's
office building.
Administrator Chandler responded that we will try to avoid
moving additional departments out of this building if possible, but
those buildings could be utilized if necessary.
Commissioner Bird suggested leasing out the old State
Attorney's office in the meantime so that we can derive some
revenue from it.
THE CHAIRMAN CALLED FOR THE QUESTION.
It was voted on and carried unanimously.
George Gross, 1230 39th Avenue, asked whether some of the
Public Works projects could be eliminated or postponed, or whether
the City of Vero Beach could contribute to the cost of any of those
projects.
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APR 2 8 1994
Administrator Chandler explained that when the 1% optional
sales tax was presented to the voters, we promised that a
significant amount of the revenue would be used for acquisition of
rights-of-way and for road and bridge projects. One of the
proposed Public Works items is to allocate $2.6 million towards the
total projected cost of about $4 million that is needed to upgrade
the old Road and Bridge compound and the fleet maintenance
operation, and there is no question that we must address that
situation. Ther s a possibility that we may be able to cut costs
by building a:c+ombined fleet maintenance operation with the School
Board, which should help offset the cost to the County.
-,,-,,,,,Discussion ensued regarding cost projections associated with
var tins Public Works Department projects.
Chairman Tippin stated that some of the County roads are in
very bad condition in this County, and we need to keep this as a
priority.
Commissioner Adams agreed, and she pointed out that roads and
bridges took a back seat in the last 5 -year plan.
Director Baird pointed out that proper maintenance of County
roads also is a public safety issue.
It was the consensus of the Board to approve the Public Works
items as presented.
Commissioner Adams announced that she recently learned that a
partnership has started to develop between the State of Florida and
the Federal government regarding the Kroegel homestead, and that
just last week the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that
this area will be a high priority in 1995 for the 100th anniversary
of the State of Florida. Since that property and the Jungle Trail
are the only 2 places in this County of major historic
significance, she hoped that the County could commit some of the
Parks & Recreation funds so that we can get matching grants for the
purchase of that site. She realized that she was dropping a
bombshell on the Board, but this matter has just developed and she
felt that sales tax revenue would be a logical source of funds.
She suggested that we allocate up to $100,000 a year for the next
5 years to that project.
Commissioner Bird was uncertain what we could delete from
Parks and Recreation to come up with that amount of money.
Commissioner Adams did not want to take money away from Parks
and Recreation, but she did not want to miss this opportunity. She
noticed that both Option 1 and Option 2 include the allocation of
$314,000 for a Northwest County fire station during 1994-95. She
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liked the idea of having a fire station there, but she suggested
postponing that project for a few years.
Commissioner Eggert asked Director Wright whether we could
hire some personnel to work at the Fellsmere station, and postpone
construction of a new Northwest County fire station until the 1997-
98 fiscal year. We could use the money we save to help fund the
Kroegel project and to purchase computer equipment for the library.
Director Wright advised that we would have to provide some
living accommodations at the Fellsmere station. He also was
concerned about our ability to cover the I-95/CR-512 corridor as
that area continues to develop.
Commissioner Eggert commented that deleting the design of a
new County Administration Building would give us about $1.3 million
for other projects, and Director Baird clarified that the $1.3
million figure includes the purchase of land, with design costs
estimated at $1 million.
Chairman Tippin thought it would be nice to preserve the
Kroegel homestead, but he thought there were other needs in the
County that should be addressed.
. Commissioner Bird disagreed with the opinion of the Land
Acquisition Advisory Committee (LAAO) that it did not qualify as
environmentally sensitive land.
Jim Granse, 36 Pine Arbor Lane, reported that he looked at the
Kroegel homestead. He agreed that it was a beautiful piece of
property; however, it does not qualify under the LAAC guidelines.
ON MOTION by Commissioner Eggert, SECONDED by
Commissioner Macht, Chairman Tiepin 'ypting in
opposition, the Board by a 4-1 vote agreed to
postpone construction of a new Northwest County fire
station until the 1997-98 fiscal year; allocate up
to $100,000 to renovate the Fellsmere station during
1994-95 and hire personnel to assist volunteer
firefighters at that station; allocate up to
$150,000 for the purchase of a library computer
system during 1994-95; and allocate $100,000 per
year for the next 5 years towards the acquisition of
the Kroegel homestead.
Administrator Chandler announced that the next step in this
process is to schedule a public hearing date.
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APR 2 8 1994
r
The consensus of the Board was to wait until next week's BCC
meeting to decide when the public hearing will be held.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at
12:15 p.m.
ATTEST:
J. rton, Clerk
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