The Board of County Commissioners of Brevard County, Florida, met in special session on July 24, 1996, at 9:00 a.m. in the Government Center Florida Room, Building C, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Melbourne, Florida. Present were: Chairman Mark Cook, Commissioners Truman Scarborough, Randy O?Brien, Nancy Higgs, and Scott Ellis, County Manager Tom Jenkins, and Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson.

DISCUSSION, RE: SCHEDULE

Commissioner Higgs noted the number of meetings coming up; and inquired about canceling the August 13, 1996 meeting. Discussion ensued on the schedule and the length of meetings, but no official action was taken by the Board.

DISCUSSION, RE: HOME MANUFACTURING NOISE

Commissioner Scarborough explained the problem occurring between constituents in his District; and suggested having Code Enforcement make a one-time visit to people doing home manufacturing to determine the noise levels of equipment. County Manager Tom Jenkins noted he does not know if this has been a problem anywhere else. Commissioner Scarborough stated the home manufacturers should schedule around the County to comply with the Ordinance; and inquired if the Ordinance should be changed to make it that way. Commissioner O?Brien suggested someone having a noise complaint should have an expert to substantiate the claim. Discussion ensued on ways to handle the problem. Commissioner Scarborough reiterated his suggestion to have the home manufacturers turn on the equipment for Code Enforcement to check the noise levels. Mr. Jenkins stated that can be done if there is a complaint. Chairman Cook stated it would be voluntary. Commissioner Higgs stated the problem in District 1 will never be solved until the Board says it is over. Commissioner Scarborough stated it could happen in another District; and inquired if Code Enforcement has the authority to respond to the noise situation with equipment. Mr. Jenkins stated occupational licenses are up for renewal; one of the parties in District 1 is going to move the business to a new location; and the issue should go away. Commissioner Scarborough noted the Ordinance allows equipment noise; and inquired how the noise issue will be handled. Commissioner Ellis stated the potential is there to be worse.

DISCUSSION, RE: INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR TAX FOR JAIL IMPROVEMENTS

Chairman Cook advised a draft letter to the City of Palm Bay has been distributed.

Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson outlined the provisions of the interlocal agreement for the discretionary infrastructure sales surtax for jail improvements including removal of references to acquisition; and stated it is for one cent rather than one percent, and for six months.

Discussion ensued on which six-month period is preferable. Commissioner Scarborough requested additional information on the numbers.

Commissioner Scarborough requested the letter not say Palm Bay represents more than 50%; and suggested the letter say the County needs support from municipalities representing ?x? number of people to conclude the interlocal agreement. Discussion ensued on the wording of the letter. Commissioner Ellis noted if the interlocal agreements fall through, there will not be a sales tax; and if the County is ordered to do the jail, it will have to come from ad valorem taxes, and the cities would bear responsibility for ad valorem over sales tax. Commissioner Scarborough suggested individual Commissioners appear before city councils rather than sending a letter. Chairman Cook noted staff has already been to the councils, but both could be done, the letter and the appearances.

Chairman Cook inquired if it is the consensus of the Board to go forward with the interlocal agreements. Commissioner Scarborough stated that is the safest way, and noted the previous failure of the issue.

Chairman Cook stated the Board started on the interlocal agreement idea; it got an indication from the County Attorney that it is not necessary to do it that way; staff went to the cities to inform and request support; and now the Board is requesting an interlocal agreement which sends a mixed message. He expressed concern that the County might not get the interlocal agreements.

Commissioner Scarborough noted one city may decide to sue, and if the County gets the interlocal agreements from the big cities, that will bar that likelihood.

Commissioner Higgs suggested the letter not say distribution to the County Commission, but say to be expended solely for the jail.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Housing and Human Services Director Bernice Jackson explained the impact of the required Medicaid match to this year?s budget and the growth of the program.

Commissioner Ellis inquired if Brevard County pays the bills for other counties; with Ms. Jackson responding no, only Brevard County. Ms. Jackson stated the State has projected that the County?s requirement for 1996-97 is $3,081,933, which is an increase of $925,987. Commissioner Ellis inquired if it is $500,000 for the HMO Medicaid; with Ms. Jackson responding it is $552,725 effective July 1. Commissioner Ellis inquired if the $552,725 has been passed down to the County from the State; with Ms. Jackson responding affirmatively. Chairman Cook stated it is an unfunded mandate. Commissioner Ellis advised he requested the County Attorney to look at it as an unfunded mandate. Chairman Cook noted there is no cost savings other than the shift to the local level; and it is a huge impact on the County?s budget. Discussion ensued on the impact to the budget.

Assistant County Manager Joan Madden advised a request was made to the State to delay this for one year to allow counties to have some input; but the State chose to implement on July 1; and the State maintains it is not a new program, but only additional people. Commissioner Ellis stated the counties should see the numbers on the new people; the poverty rate has not gone up; and the County is going to pay more cost, not get new people. Ms. Jackson advised applicants are given a choice of a traditional or managed care program; if the decision is not made, the State automatically places them in a managed care program; and people are being shifted from one side of the program to the other with the cost shifted to the local level. Discussion ensued on the shift of the cost to the County. Chairman Cook requested the County Attorney check on whether the County has any recourse. Ms. Jackson advised of actions being taken to offset the increase.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired how many people are involved; with Ms. Jackson responding the total number receiving Medicaid assistance from July 1, 1995 through June 30, 1996 was 37,655. Commissioner Ellis inquired about projections for next year; with Ms. Jackson responding approximately 40,000. Commissioner Ellis noted there is less than 10% increase in recipients but a 50% increase in the budget; and expressed concern about getting caught by the mandate and running short. Chairman Cook noted all of the money is never spent; with Ms. Madden advising there is no track record on the HMO?s. Commissioner Higgs inquired how much is usually saved over what is budgeted; with Ms. Jackson responding as much as $500,000. Commissioner Higgs stated assuming the track record is right, the County will be okay; and the County will have some idea in the first quarter. Commissioner Ellis inquired if it will be billed like a traditional HMO; with staff responding it will follow the same requirement as Medicaid. Commissioner Ellis stated it does not sound like a real HMO. Discussion ensued on the HMO, getting information in October, maintaining the reserve, national health plans, refusal of the Legislature to wait one year to implement the plan, and the increased cost.

Ms. Jackson advised to offset the increase, the Department proposes to eliminate six General Fund positions and reduce welfare services funding. She advised of a proposed rate structure for sale of rabies tags. Commissioner Ellis inquired about cooperation from veterinarians. Discussion ensued on ways to increase the number of vaccinated pets, participation of veterinarians, previous problems with the program, other groups providing low-cost vaccinations, provision of lists of vaccinated animals, and use of tags in identifying animals. Commissioner Scarborough advised of concerns of veterinarians.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about increases in the Veterans Services Office; with a staff member explaining the increase. He inquired about increases in the Medical Examiner?s budget. Commissioner Ellis stated operating expenses went up in 1994-95. Commissioner O?Brien noted they never went back down from that. Ms. Madden advised she will check on that. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about purchase of a pick-up truck with extended cab and camper top; with Alicia Khan advising it is necessary because of the equipment that has to be carried by an inspector for CDBG.

Commissioner Higgs inquired about the $10,000 for travel; and stated it is not consistent with the way the County operates and needs to be brought into line. Ms. Madden advised much of the travel is for mandated training courses; and she will provide a breakdown. Discussion ensued on the travel budget.

Commissioner Higgs inquired why the inspectors are not under Facilities; with Ms. Khan responding they are not necessarily inspecting County facilities. Commissioner Ellis stated it may fall in line with the Building Division. Chairman Cook stated it has been this way for some time. Ms. Madden noted shifting the responsibility would not necessarily result in cost savings. Commissioner Higgs inquired about the expertise of the inspectors; with Ms. Madden responding two of them are certified.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about increases in the Veterans Services Office budget. Ms. Jackson advised of transfer of personnel. Mr. Jenkins explained the impact of a change in the way administration budgets are shown to show a true program cost. Discussion ensued on the format of the budget, analysis of operating expenses, and line item detailing. Commissioner Ellis requested fund numbers be included; and explained how they would help in forming comparisons. Budget Director Kathy Wall advised she prepared a list of fund numbers. Mr. Jenkins advised most of the administrative costs are for salaries.

Ms. Jackson advised the actual budget for the Medical Examiner for 1994-95 was $712,070. Commissioner O?Brien stated that is a $19,000 increase over last year; and identified the figures. Commissioner Higgs inquired how much General Fund is going to Country Acres; with Budget Analyst Shai Francis responding the total is $936,335, and General Fund is approximately 49%. Commissioner Higgs inquired if any grant funds are used at Country Acres; with Ms. Francis outlining grant funding. Commissioner Higgs suggested looking for grant funds for Country Acres to offset the General Fund contribution; with Ms. Jackson responding staff is looking for grants, and five applications have been made. Commissioner Higgs inquired about existing grant funds; with Ms. Jackson advising of CDBG funds which were used for renovations. Ms. Jackson noted there have been applications for funds for daily operations; and two grants have been received for capital funds. Chairman Cook inquired if applications can be made for operating expenses to decrease the General Fund contribution. Commissioner Higgs requested additional information on grant funds to offset General Fund expenditures for Country Acres. Jasper Trigg advised of a $50,000 grant from the State that could be applied to Country Acres. Commissioner Ellis inquired about the status of requests to Orange County for funding; with Ms. Jackson responding the District is researching the possibility of assistance. Chairman Cook noted almost half of the residents of Country Acres are from Orange County. Commissioner Higgs noted Brevard County has children in Orange County. Commissioner Ellis indicated he would like to pursue the issue with Orange County.

Commissioner Higgs requested staff look at travel money for non-mandated events.

Chairman Cook inquired about the General Fund subsidy to Country Acres; with staff responding $450,000.

Commissioner O?Brien stated on page E-9.4 it indicates that positions were eliminated; and questioned the numbers. Ms. Madden explained the figures. Commissioner O?Brien advised the presentation is hard to follow. Mr. Jenkins advised the question is the level of detail desired; the program changes show the significant changes, without itemizing every individual line item; and a line item budget is provided in a separate book for those desiring a higher level of detail. Commissioner O?Brien requested compensation and benefits be shown next year in a manner which can be compared. Discussion ensued on how the budget could be done.

Ms. Madden advised of the Initiatives for Children request for a planning position; and outlined the budget request. Commissioner Ellis advised of the problems with duplication of multiple programs. Chairman Cook expressed concern about adding another layer. Discussion ensued on multiple programs, coordination of agencies, and elimination of duplication. Commissioner Scarborough suggested the Board have a presentation on the request. Commissioner Higgs noted Commissioner Ellis serves on the Children?s Services Council. Chairman Cook stated this is late in the budget process. Ms. Madden explained why the request was not made earlier; and advised it is brought to the table as an unfunded budget issue. Commissioner Ellis noted HRS said no. Discussion ensued on funding, lack of a point of contact, potential savings, sending the request to the CBO Committee, unmet needs, more effective delivery of services, and the necessity of a paid position. Chairman Cook inquired if it will be a recurring funding; with Ms. Madden responding there is a five-year projection, funded one year at a time. Commissioner O?Brien inquired if the volunteer CBO Committee could sort this out; with Commissioner Higgs responding no because it has a confined mission, and the Children?s Services Council has been tasked by Florida Statute to coordinate children?s services, identify the needs, and find a way of providing the services. Commissioner Ellis noted in Orange County, the United Way does this, but in Brevard County, United way will not do it. Ms. Madden clarified United Way will participate, but will not take over. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board will not resolve this today; additional information and discussion is needed; the Board is behind schedule; and recommended the Board move forward. Ms. Madden inquired if the Board desires a presentation; with Commissioner Ellis requesting staff come back with possible funding sources.

The meeting recessed at 10:30 a.m. and reconvened at 10:45 a.m.

DISCUSSION, RE: PERSONAL APPEARANCES

Chairman Cook stated personal appearances are not that big a problem, but some things could be considered under public comment.

Commissioner Scarborough stated people can come under personal appearance at the beginning of the meeting if they do not require Board action; they can also have a personal appearance later in the meeting for Board discussion; or they can address the Board under public comment. Discussion ensued on how to handle personal appearances, giving time certains to individuals when groups are waiting, limits on the number of personal appearances per individual per year, and redundancy of issues.

Chairman Cook stated there is already a policy, which he is why he insisted the individual on the previous Agenda should be under public comments. Commissioner Scarborough noted the difference between the individual on the previous Agenda and those who requested to be heard on the nudity issue. Mr. Jenkins stated the Board?s rules say if a person wishes to express an opinion, it should occur under public comments; and he will provide a copy of the rules to each of the Commissioners for review.

Commissioner Scarborough noted just because someone attacks the Board, the Board has to accommodate his or her right to speak; and the rules should be uniform. Chairman Cook noted the previous situation was unique; and he does not want to change the rule. Commissioner Scarborough noted there have been other speakers who attacked the Board. Commissioner Higgs stated there is always the right to speak to the Board. Chairman Cook stated the Board has never denied anyone the opportunity to come before it. Commissioner Higgs noted one person?s right to take an hour of meeting time denies others? rights to be heard in a timely manner; and recommended the time limit be observed. Discussion ensued on how to handle public comment, where it should be on the agenda, and time limits for speakers. Chairman Cook recommended the Board look at the policy.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: TRANSIT SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Transit Services Director Don Lusk outlined the Transit Services Department budget; and advised of reduced federal and state funding. He advised of the proposed use of toll revenue credits for the capital match and moving forward unextended grant balances. He stated they discovered that some expenses ordinarily considered operating expenses can be charged to the capital budget, such as planning activities and some maintenance. He advised they achieved a $131,708 reduction in General Fund. He stated there is a 5.6% increase in the overall budget; the capital budget is up significantly; but the operating budget is down by 5.97%.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about the $800,000 growth in the capital improvement program. Mr. Lusk advising that is due to vehicles on which delivery has not been taken yet. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about compensation and benefits and administrative expenses. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised the budget is formatted on comparing the current year to next year; and information is not provided for several years ago; but research can be done to provide those costs. Commissioner O?Brien stated he would like to see what drove the number from 1994-95 to 1996-97 up by $500,000.

Chairman Cook inquired about the increase shown under intergovernmental; with Mr. Lusk explaining the change in the method of reporting.

Commissioner Scarborough inquired about charges for services; with Mr. Lusk responding he will be happy to provide a memorandum explaining the reduction.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired why operating reserves have dropped; with Mr. Quinn responding cash forward is what determines what is in reserves. Mr. Jenkins advised the bulk is capital; and sometimes it is not spent in the year it is received, so it is carried forward. Mr. Quinn explained the figures.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: CODE COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT Code Compliance Director John Sternagel advised the Code Compliance Department FY 1996-97 budget is $4.6 million which is 12% less than the current budget; the General Fund transfer amount is down by 17.5%; and the Site and Subdivision Review Program reflects a decrease in federal expenditures of $9,500 or 2%. He explained a program change whereby one Code Enforcement Officer who is responsible for adult entertainment and sign permitting is being moved to Land Development. He advised of the status of other programs, including electronic site planning, central cashier, address assignment, building code plan review, environmental health, contractor licensing, and unlicensed contractor programs. He advised of a 20% reduction in the Code Enforcement budget and the impact of staffing changes.

Chairman Cook inquired about the overall reduction; with Mr. Sternagel responding it is 17.5%. Commissioner Ellis inquired if there is still capital money; with Mr. Sternagel responding affirmatively. Chairman Cook inquired about vehicles being replaced; with Mr. Sternagel responding they are inspectors? vehicles which have more than 100,000 miles on them. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised the vehicles will either be sold or used to replace an older vehicle. Discussion ensued on the reasons for the vehicle replacement. Chairman Cook noted the Sheriff recently bought two used helicopters from the Army for $500 each, and they have new engines. Mr. Jenkins advised he will provide more information on the vehicles.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about the Environmental Health Code office; with Mr. Sternagel advising the office handles septic tank permitting and facilities inspection. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about plans to buy two new trucks; with Mr. Sternagel advising the purchase will be two four-wheel drive vehicles for inspectors to go to construction sites. Discussion ensued on the need for four-wheel drive vehicles.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: INFORMATION SYSTEMS DEPARTMENT

Mr. Sternagel introduced Joe Lamers and John Sellers; and advised of activities to be undertaken in the coming year. He stated the Department?s total expenditures have decreased by $1.1 million or 13%; and outlined the elements of the budget and staffing changes. He advised internal service charges to user agencies provide a major revenue source; and there is no increase in the General Fund allocation. He advised Information Systems will begin migrating users to the client service platform over the next 60 days; and the County should begin to realize performance improvements. Joe Lamers, Communications Manager, advised of the responsibilities of the communications network program. He stated the total program budget has been reduced by 22% through efficiencies and management consolidation. He outlined the objectives of the program for 1996-97. He stated funded improvements are limited to Emergency-911 areas and the Public Safety radio system. He advised a 2.98% increase in General Fund revenues will allow accommodation of the increased demand for communications services; and no major upgrades to service are included in the budget. Commissioner Ellis inquired about operations; with Mr. Sellers responding they are found under client server. Commissioner Ellis inquired if the goal is still getting off the mainframe; with Mr. Sellers responding affirmatively. Mr. Sellers explained how the shift will take place.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired why E-911 is separate. Mr. Lamers explained the E-911 portion of Code Compliance deals with the emergency address numbering system; it is a small part of it; and it does not justify a full-time position.

Commissioner O?Brien stated the idea behind computerization was to reduce the number of people required to perform a task; but in the County the number of employees has increased. Mr. Jenkins noted the growth has been in operations such as librarians, fire fighters, parks maintenance workers, etc. and administrative positions have been reduced in the last three years. He explained the advantages of computerization.

Chairman Cook noted he requested information on the number of computers purchased; and inquired who will have Internet access and will there be criteria. Mr. Lamers advised there are 30 people currently on the Internet. Commissioner Ellis stated it is a good thing. Discussion ensued on the use of the Internet, advantages, disadvantages and accountability. Chairman Cook stated a lot of technology has enhanced quality of life, but the Board needs to be careful. Commissioner Ellis noted the inefficiency of paying employees to wait to get on a computer. Chairman Cook stated that is not the case in the County. Chairman Cook stated a computer which is only used one or two hours a day is not an effective utilization. Mr. Jenkins stated all financial transactions of County government are on the computer system. Commissioner O?Brien inquired how was it done before; with Mr. Jenkins explaining it was done by hand using calculators and adding machines. Mr. Jenkins continued all personnel, property appraisal, and land records are on the computer. Commissioner O?Brien inquired whose budget are those things under; with Mr. Jenkins responding Information Systems is providing the system side in its budget; and the Property Appraiser has technicians who enter the information into the computer. Mr. Jenkins advised by getting rid of the mainframe, expenses will be cut, and it will go to a PC-driven system. Discussion ensued on how the Clerk handles financial records.

Mr. Lamers advised the budget also includes all communications. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about costs; with Mr. Jenkins explaining what is included under communications.

Commissioner Scarborough inquired about creating a pool system to handle computers. Mr. Jenkins stated most organizations having the number of PC?s the County has have a higher ratio of trouble shooters; the County does not have enough people doing that; and suggested using existing staff from various departments with aptitude and computer training to provide technical assistance. Commissioner Scarborough inquired if this would reduce the number of employees; with Mr. Jenkins responding it is to improve service.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about the $4 million increase in budget; with Mr. Lamers explaining $4.7 million for communications was moved to this budget, and it was not there previously. Mr. Jenkins advised staff will provide a report.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: PURCHASING SERVICES

Commissioner Higgs inquired if Stockton Whitten is responsible for this area; with Mr. Jenkins responding affirmatively.

Assistant to County Manager Stockton Whitten advised of a reduction in operating budget. Purchasing Services Manager Jo Malota outlined the differences in operating procedures and the replacement of long-term employees who retired by less senior employees. She advised of an increase in the property level mandate to $750; and requested Property Control not track anything under $400. Mr. Whitten advised the current level is $250. Mr. Jenkins advised it allows reduction of one position.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about the reduction of two positions in relation to the budget. Mr. Jenkins explained what comprises non-departmental. He noted Purchasing and Central Fleet were not included previously. Commissioner O?Brien inquired where were they last year; with Mr. Jenkins responding they were under Management Services which is being eliminated. Commissioner O?Brien stated there should be a reduction some place else, but he is not seeing that. Mr. Jenkins stated the position that was eliminated was Mr. Managan?s, and the function has been reassigned. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about comparison of the budgets; with Mr. Jenkins responding he can show where the costs for Management Services went. Commissioner O?Brien stated it appears to be a shell game; with Mr. Jenkins advising the six or seven programs under Management Services can be broken down and tracked. Commissioner O?Brien commented on the inconsistency of the compensation and benefits figures. Mr. Jenkins stated staff will provide a line item showing the administrative allocation per program; advised there are a number of variables in each of the budgets; and explained the differences in the line item and program budgets. Commissioner O?Brien suggested in the future if something is moved, it should be shown as a negative in the budget from which it is moved. Mr. Jenkins advised starting this year, that is being done; but it was not done two years ago which is what is causing the difficulty. Commissioner O?Brien stated GIS was moved to the Property Appraiser?s Office; and inquired was the Land Development budget reduced by the amount of money that was shifted to the Property Appraiser; with Mr. Jenkins responding affirmatively. Mr. Jenkins advised the significant program changes are detailed in the budget. Chairman Cook stated the projected savings from the transfer was supposed to be 8%. Mr. Jenkins stated the Property Appraiser collects money from other governmental entities for his services; so instead of the Board bearing the entire cost of funding GIS, the Property Appraiser is able to collect a portion of the cost from those governmental entities.

Commissioner Higgs inquired who will be the point person for finance issues; with Mr. Jenkins responding Kathy Wall. Commissioner Higgs inquired if the staff person on the Finance Committee will be the coordinator; with Mr. Jenkins responding he is on the Finance Committee; Kathy Wall is taking Mr. Managan?s place; and Financial Advisor Tom Holley acts as staff to the Committee.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: CENTRAL FLEET

Central Fleet Director Gene Melvin stated Central Fleet has a budget decrease of $740,000 due to consolidation of mechanic shops and other cost cutting measures; it no longer charges a flat rate per vehicle each month; and it now operates like a business. He advised the County?s fuel costs have decreased $600,000 over the last four years; and if the market remains the same, it is expected more will be saved.

Commissioner Higgs inquired if that represents less miles driven or lower cost of fuel; with Mr. Melvin responding both as well as use of cars with better fuel mileage.

Chairman Cook inquired what is the overall reduction; with Mr. Melvin responding the budget has decreased $740,000 from last year. Discussion ensued on how the decrease was achieved.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about the reduction in positions. Commissioner Ellis noted the figures given are incorrect; with Mr. Melvin agreeing. Mr. Melvin noted the administrative cost is divided into the three programs.

Commissioner Ellis inquired if staff has looked at contracting out the North Brevard part; and inquired if there is enough work to justify keeping the staff. Mr. Melvin stated due to the location of Titusville, consolidation with Melbourne would not work due to travel time; and outlined the number of vehicles serviced in North Brevard. Mr. Jenkins advised most of the heavier work is contracted out or sent to Melbourne. Commissioner Higgs stated the Sheriff has a facility in North Brevard; and suggested contracting with the Sheriff?s Office for some of this work. Mr. Jenkins explained most Sheriff Departments do their own maintenance in order to have priority service. Mr. Melvin advised the Sheriff?s Department does not have the equipment to maintain the heavier equipment. Commissioner Higgs stated the Sheriff has an expensive operation; and the County should take advantage of it. Commissioner Ellis stated the Sheriff is only equipped to handle automobiles; with Commissioner Higgs advising she does not know or accept that. Discussion ensued on whether the Sheriff is equipped to service anything other than light vehicles. Mr. Melvin advised in North Brevard there are one auto mechanic and two heavy equipment mechanics, and the Sheriff does not have any heavy equipment mechanics. Commissioner Higgs stated she is looking for reasons to use the Sheriff?s facility because there is a huge investment in both facilities. Commissioner Ellis stated the logical route would be for the Sheriff to use County facilities. Chairman Cook requested staff provide information. Mr. Melvin stated staff will be happy to investigate.

The meeting recessed at 12:20 p.m. and reconvened at 12:35 p.m.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT

Public Safety Director Donald Boykin stated the preliminary budget for the Public Safety Department for FY 1996-97 shows an increase of 2.6%. He stated the Fire Control millage has decreased in each of the last five years; and as a result, the Department has been unable to set aside the reserve to fund the capital improvements program. He advised the EMS assessment rates of the MSBU?s have remained unchanged since FY 1991-92 which has allowed the Department to build some reserves in the Central and North Benefit Units. He stated compensation and benefits account for 65% expenditures; operating expenses are 26%; and capital is 9%. He advised the proposed budget reflects a decrease of two battalion chiefs and one emergency vehicle dispatcher which is a decrease of eight positions since 1993. He stated there are two unfunded operating expense projects; the first is to increase staffing from two to three persons on an engine; and the second is the staffing of the proposed Viera East Station. He advised the Department is negotiating agreements with the Cities of Rockledge and Palm Bay for provision of coverage.

Commissioner Ellis inquired about the millage; with Financial Director Alan Escoffery responding it is 1.591 mills.

Commissioner Higgs inquired if the Department has funded the capital programs; with Mr. Jenkins advising some have been funded. Commissioner Higgs inquired how short are they; with Mr. Escoffery responding some capital projects have been deferred. Mr. Escoffery explained how the fire engine replacement program will be handled. Commissioner Ellis inquired how much is needed to fully fund it; with Mr. Escoffery responding $750,000 per year; and $498,000 was put in last year. Discussion ensued on the shortage, what is included in the proposed capital budget, and requirements for upcoming years. Mr. Escoffery advised $451,000 is funded for refurbishing of engines, and a $684,000 reserve has been set aside for the engine replacement program. Discussion resumed on the shortage. Commissioner Higgs stated the County is getting the pumper tank this year; and inquired if it will be able to renovate the fire stations.

Mr. Jenkins stated the items on page PS-3 which total $1,357,500 for 1997 are funded in next year?s budget; Public Safety is saying there are additional needs; but the Board has never voted on and approved that plan. He stated the Board direction is to make things work more efficiently; there is still some work that needs to be done to create a more efficient system; some of that requires voluntary participation of the cities; and the Board needs to look at the total plan before it determines there is a shortfall.

Commissioner Ellis advised his only concern is the engines. Mr. Jenkins stated there is $451,000 in the budget for engine replacement; there is $152,000 for tanker replacement; and there is $255,000 for the rescue unit replacement program. Commissioner Ellis stated if that is not enough for replacement, the Board will have to look at adjusting the millage or cutting somewhere else. Chairman Cook stated this is the budget that was proposed, and he is not hearing anything about a crisis. Commissioner Ellis stated this is the first time he has heard about long-term capital needs. Chairman Cook stated the Board needs to look at the entire program before concluding there is an area that needs to be done. Commissioner Higgs suggested staff itemize the condition of the engines, the replacement plan, and the critical needs. Chairman Cook stated he is hearing all sorts of numbers.

Mr. Jenkins stated in order to get automatic aid the County will have to increase its staffing levels to be comparable to the cities; and almost every city except Rockledge have three men on a truck. He stated the same level of service will be a major issue in terms of getting automatic aid; the Task Force is looking at a longer term solution; but that is in the future, and the cost is not known; and the short-term solution is to have automatic aid with the cities. Commissioner Higgs requested information on which stations will have automatic aid agreements with which cities and how much it will cost. Chairman Cook requested information on costs and savings. Commissioner Ellis stated the point is if it goes to a four-man station with automatic aid, another station can be closed. Mr. Jenkins stated staff was thinking of three stations on a selective basis. Commissioner Higgs inquired specifically which ones those are, how much it will cost, and how much it will save. Chairman Cook requested information on the life of the engines. Commissioner Ellis inquired if the County has automatic aid with Melbourne on the beachside; with Chief Boykin responding there is a Contract with the City for provision of service. Commissioner O?Brien inquired what is the projection for responses in the cities; and stated if the response is only going to be twice a year, he cannot see going to three-man trucks Countywide. He suggested other employees could be on call to serve as the third man. Chief Boykin addressed the concept of closing stations to provide better service. Commissioner O?Brien stated in order to go to three-man engines the budget will have to be increased by $7 million per year. Mr. Jenkins advised of a scenario to use floater positions to do a portion of the stations; with Ms. Wall advising the cost would be $1.4 million. Chairman Cook noted that would be a reoccurring cost. Commissioner Higgs advised the County is below the national standard. Commissioner O?Brien stated the unions write that standard. Commissioner Ellis stated it is not practical to offer city-style services in rural areas. Mr. Jenkins stated the approach was not to do every station but do it selectively; and advised of different situations in the County. He stated even the phased approach is a significant increase that the Board might want to take it to referendum.

Commissioner Ellis requested information on the vacation buy back.

Mr. Jenkins stated a significant issue is fire prevention; and inquired about fees for fire inspection. Commissioner Scarborough advised there may be other issues with the City of Titusville.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about a referendum; with Mr. Jenkins advising the Board may want to see the numbers first. Chairman Cook and Commissioner Higgs advised discussion of a referendum is premature at this time.

The Board resumed discussion on the automatic aid issue.

Battalion Chief Michael Taggart advised the preliminary numbers for fire inspections are based on 70% of the businesses being reinspected; and there are four options based on maximum charges of $35, $50, $75, and $100. He advised at $35, it would generate $57,000 which would cause a $133,000 shortfall; option 2 is $50 which would generate $62,000 and a $128,000 shortfall; option 3 is $75 which would generate $67,000 and $123,000 shortfall; and option 4 is $100 maximum which would generate $70,000 and a $120,000 shortfall. Commissioner Ellis inquired about cost reductions; with Chief Taggart responding it would take a minimum of four inspectors to do 70% of the businesses, and he currently has five.

Commissioner O?Brien stated there are five inspectors, but the revenue is used to pay eleven people. Chief Taggart indicated that is incorrect. He stated there are two revenues generated under his control; one is annual inspection, and the other is new construction; there are five inspectors for annual inspections, and three for new construction. He stated the revenue from new construction helps offset the new construction cost, and the annual helps offset the annual cost. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about how much is generated by inspections; with Chief Taggart advising the program has always been supplemented by the MSTU and have never paid for itself totally. Mr. Jenkins noted the program was more greatly subsidized in the past. Chief Taggart advised it has been possible to decrease the subsidy every year due to consolidation and streamlining of the operation. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about inspection time versus travel times for inspectors, and charging for inspection time. Chief Taggart advised the charge is based on square footage rather than time. Mr. Jenkins noted Joel Robinson recently addressed the Board concerning duplication of inspections. Discussion ensued on the length of time between inspections; with Chief Taggart clarifying the policy. Commissioner O?Brien inquired about inspections for fire extinguisher replacement; with Chief Taggart responding businesses were inspected during the new construction period, and after that it was a catch as catch can operation, but now it is set up on a schedule.

Chairman Cook inquired what is the Board?s pleasure; with Commissioner Higgs advising the Board is not acting on this today. Mr. Jenkins noted doing anything other than what is done currently would have a fiscal impact. Discussion ensued on inspection fees, impacts on businesses, need for experts to do inspections on exotic businesses, and availability of volunteers. Chief Taggart expressed concern about businesses with high traffic going two years without a fire inspection. Commissioner Ellis expressed doubt that a high traffic area such as Merritt Square Mall would go two years without a Fire Code violation. Chief Taggart requested the opportunity to come back with suggestions for a more efficient way to perform the inspection program. Discussion continued on the inspection program and its benefits. Chairman Cook stated the original Board action was to try to work out the system; and if staff comes back with other concepts, the Board will be happy to look at them.

Commissioner Ellis inquired about the lifeguard program; and expressed concern about significant reductions. Mr. Escoffery advised capital in the current budget was $31,000, but there is none in FY 1996-97; and compensation has gone down because there is not the same level of staffing. Commissioner Higgs inquired about hours of service; with Mr. Escoffery responding there were 50 to 54 temporary lifeguards, and the intent is not to staff next year at that level. Commissioner Higgs inquired if it would be the same hours of service per person but with 15 fewer people. Emergency Management Director Mark McMichael advised the same hours of service are being provided with the exception of Indialantic, which altered the schedule to match its budget, and Johnson Control expanded its hours for Jetty Park. Commissioner Higgs advised she has gotten calls from people in Indialantic who are concerned about lifeguards. Commissioner O?Brien noted the City of Cocoa Beach is not in the program. Commissioner Higgs noted the County increased the percentage of funds cities needed to participate; the cities only had so much money available; and they reduced hours. She stated the County is reducing its delivery of lifeguard hours; with Chairman Cook disagreeing. Commissioner Ellis stated Rodes and Wickham Park lifeguards are under Parks and Recreation, but the idea was to put them all under one program and one training group. Mr. Jenkins stated the ocean lifeguards were transferred, and the others were kept. Assistant County Manager Joan Madden stated the decision was made on the basis of ability to supervise. Commissioner Ellis stated he thought it was a training issue; with Ms. Madden advising they have all been upgraded to first responders. Mr. McMichael advised of differences in state regulations for ocean and pool lifeguards.

Commissioner Higgs inquired about reduction of service hours; with Mr. McMichael responding the reductions were in numbers of towers, and the hours are the same, but the level is less. Mr. McMichael advised at 30%, Indialantic was not paying its share, but when it was increased to 50%, the Town chose to reduce the number of towers. Commissioner Higgs stated the lifeguards are going from 282 to 249; and requested information on the impact of the reduction in terms of service hours.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired about increased operating expenses. Mr. Escoffery advised last year was the first year Public Safety took over the lifeguard program; and there were a number of operating expenses that were incurred and will continue to be incurred. Chairman Cook requested staff provide information on the issue.

Commissioner O?Brien inquired how much is Johnson Control paying; with staff responding $45,000. Commissioner O?Brien inquired if the County is collecting approximately $30,000 from the municipalities it is covering; with staff responding affirmatively. Commissioner O?Brien inquired if the municipalities are supposed to meet the 50%; with Commissioner Ellis advising some of the parks are County parks. Mr. McMichael advised Johnson Control pays 100%.

DISCUSSION, RE: SCHEDULE

Chairman Cook stated the Board cannot get through what is scheduled for tomorrow. Commissioner Ellis suggested not hearing Public Works. Discussion ensued on the schedule. The Board reached consensus to go to 1:00 p.m. with no lunch break. Chairman Cook requested Solid Waste and Public Works be rescheduled. Discussion ensued on how to handle staff presentations. Commissioner O?Brien advised the Board will need to set tentative millage on August 1, 1996. The Board reached consensus to reschedule Solid Waste and Public Works.

Upon motion and vote, the meeting adjourned at 1:30 p.m.

MARK COOK, CHAIRMAN
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA

ATTEST:
SANDY CRAWFORD, CLERK
( S E A L )