The Board of County Commissioners of Brevard County, Florida, met in special session on July 20, 2000, at 10:05 a.m. in the Government Center Florida Room, Building C, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, Florida. Present were: Chairman Nancy Higgs, Commissioners Truman Scarborough, Randy O'Brien, Sue Carlson, and Helen Voltz, County Manager Tom Jenkins, and Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson.

APPROVAL, RE: CHANGE IN MEETING SCHEDULE

County Manager Tom Jenkins stated based on scheduling conflicts, it is necessary to move the Manatee Protection Workshop from July 28, 2000 to September 28, 2000 at 10:00 a.m.

Motion by Commissioner Voltz, seconded by Commissioner O'Brien, to approve rescheduling the Manatee Protection Workshop from July 28, 2000 to September 28, 2000 at 10:00 a.m. Motion carried and ordered unanimously.

REPORT, RE: VOTER TURNOUT FOR PALM BY SPECIAL ELECTION

Commissioner O'Brien advised of an article in Florida TODAY concerning a special election in Palm Bay and percentage of voters who went to the polls. He stated the people in Palm Bay understand their problems, and if they get involved in the process, they might find some better solutions.

REPORT, RE: SPEED OF LIGHT

Commissioner O'Brien stated almost everyone has talked about the speed of light; some scientists recently pulsed a laser and discovered that light can go six times faster than they thought it could; so rather than light traveling at 186,000 miles per hour, it travels at over one million miles per hour. He commented on the implications in terms of space travel.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: COURT OPERATIONS

County Manager Tom Jenkins stated the Board is scheduled to set the tentative millage on July 25, 2000 at a public hearing, which will enable staff to submit the required budget forms to the State by the August deadline. He stated there will be two formal public hearings on the tentative budget; the first one will be Wednesday, September 6, and the second will be on Tuesday, September 19, 2000; and those hearings will start at 5:30 p.m. He stated the format proposed is the budget staff will give a brief overview of the Agencies' budgets; and the Agencies will be available to answer questions or provide additional comments.

Management Services Director Stockton Whitten stated the first budget to be considered is Court Operations, which begins on page G.1.1. He stated the 2001 budget for the Judicial Branch administration increased by 7.39% due to merit increases approved by the Board in the current fiscal year; additionally two program changes have been funded to convert part-time to full-time position, one for a Juvenile Evaluator, and the other for a Court Evaluator; and other Judicial services have decreased by 1.8% from the current budget.

Chief Judge Preston Silvernail stated they initially requested a grant writer position, but understanding the fiscal constraints, they have withdrawn that request; and requested they be allowed to continue to work with Mike Fitzgerald with County staff in identifying and applying for grants. He requested the Board allow the Judicial branch to continue to receive information from Lobbyist Guy Spearman; and emphasized this is a volatile time in Tallahassee with Article V changes. He reported on the status of the collection court; advised of the role of Judge McCluan; and stated they intend to expand that effort which should aid the revenue situation. He stated he may come to the Board at some time to request an additional position to help coordinate the collection court activity, but will not do it until the revenues produced justify it.

Chief Deputy Mark Van Bever stated through administrative orders and working with the State Legislature, the judges will be providing $1.8 million in revenue to the Board in the budget process the Board is discussing today. He stated there are two critical needs that are funded in the budget; one is for a Juvenile Evaluator to perform psychological evaluations in Juvenile Court; the number of dependency cases has skyrocketed resulting in a severe overtime situation; and requested the half-time employee be funded full-time. He stated in Family Court, individuals perform home studies where there are allegations of child abuse to determine which home is more suitable or if either home is suitable; and they provide information to the judge who makes the final decision about custody. He stated allegations of abuse have also skyrocketed; requested that the half-time position be funded as full-time; and advised those are in the budget before the Board.

Commissioner Voltz inquired if they are unfunded; with Mr. Van Bever advising they are funded. Mr. Jenkins advised two of the three were changed from unfunded to funded because of a typographical error; and the third is not funded.

Commissioner Carlson stated she questioned the amount being paid to local professionals for psychological evaluations; but it is currently funded, so her question was answered. Mr. Van Bever stated the alternate is funded from the Fine and Forfeiture fund, and would be much more expensive to do it that way.

Judge Silvernail stated he received a communication yesterday from State Attorney Norm Wolfinger who indicated the Juvenile Program has been stricken from the State's budget; and Mr. Wolfinger is requesting an expansion of his Teen Court program. He emphasized the need to address the problem; and stated he hopes there is a way to help Mr. Wolfinger with that program. Chairman Higgs inquired if that request will come when Mr. Wolfinger's requests come. Mr. Jenkins stated Mr. Wolfinger contacted him several weeks ago, and a staff person is working on that issue; part of Mr. Wolfinger's idea is to use some fee money to pay for it; and that is the part that needs to be finalized. Chairman Higgs stated the Board will deal with that with the State Attorney.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he did not find any surplus funds from attrition by people who have left or retired and their positions were left open for several weeks. Mr. Van Bever advised since they are a General Fund entity, they do not have a cash forward; and any money underspent in the budget automatically go back to the General Fund. Commissioner O'Brien noted the Judicial branch is looking for new copiers and printers; and inquired if they compared the cost of buying to the cost of renting. Mr. Van Bever stated they made that comparison and determined because of the number of years they keep a copier, it is more advantageous to purchase rather than lease; and explained the break-even point reached at five years.

Commissioner Carlson inquired about transfer of Criminal Justice trust fund money; with Commissioner Voltz advising that is in the next budget. Mr. Van Bever advised they are a component, but not that component. Commissioner Carlson inquired to whom should she address her questions; with Mr. Jenkins advising the Clerk.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the State is providing additional funds under Article V; and inquired how much more did the County receive from the State for courtrooms, judges, etc. Mr. Van Bever stated the Board received $50,000 from the State for traffic hearing officers, $154,000 for miscellaneous Article V costs, $126,000 for dependency attorneys, and $77,000 for court reports; and beyond that he is not aware of what revenues might have come to the Board. He stated the process has started in the State assuming the expenses; he expects it to continue each year; and the process must be complete by July 1, 2004. Commissioner O'Brien stated more is being received from the State, but there is no corresponding decrease in the budget. Mr. Van Bever stated the items the State is funding are outside the budget being discussed; so in other funds even though expenses have not decreased, the amount of General Fund revenue needed to cover those expenses has decreased; and other judicial programs have decreased 2%. Senior Budget Analyst Neil Boynton stated the funding that Mr. Van Bever talked about is listed in the next program to be presented, which is Other Judicial Services. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the Board will find a corresponding reduction at that point; with Mr. Boynton responding there will be a corresponding decrease in the amount of the increase. Mr. Van Bever stated the State is sending the County revenue rather than assuming the expenses, but the expenses do not go down. Mr. Whitten stated on page G.2. 2. the intergovernmental revenues increased 22.7% from the amended budget. Commissioner O'Brien stated the intergovernmental revenue is $520,000; it goes to $761,000 next year; and inquired if the transfer from General Fund should be reduced by $761,000. Mr. Boynton stated it went up from $620,000 in the current year to $761,000 estimated for next year, but there are increases in court costs. Mr. Jenkins advised the Board would have seen that reduction, but there are other increases that offset the reduction. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the Article V funding had not increased dramatically, would the Board need another $500,000 now. Mr. Jenkins stated the change is from $620,000 to $760,000, so $140,000 is what the County benefited; and if the County had not received the additional transfer from the State, it would have been necessary to make that up someplace else. Commissioner O'Brien stated there is also an increase in the General Fund revenue; with Mr. Jenkins responding there are increases in the court costs for the other expenses that are listed. Mr. Jenkins stated there has been a reduction in one item, but increases in other items for a net increase. Commissioner O'Brien advised Fines and Forfeitures are up almost $100,000, and intergovernmental transfers from Article V are up by $126,000; and General Fund is up $500,000; and putting all the numbers together equals some big money for judicial services; with Mr. Jenkins responding those are court costs. Mr. Boynton stated one of the unique aspects of this budget is that money for three other programs, the Clerk, the State Attorney and the Public Defender pass through the Fine and Forfeiture fund; so the $500,000 passes on to the other three programs. Commissioner O'Brien stated he would like to know more about where that money went. Mr. Boynton stated they do not earmark a specific revenue for the Clerk or the State Attorney support; and it all goes into the Fine and Forfeiture fund which becomes part of the General Government revenue. Mr. Whitten stated he will provide better detail of where expenditures have increased; with Commissioner O'Brien responding he wants to know where the money went.

Mr. Van Bever stated the State Legislature gave every Circuit a position related to Drug Court; and that will be passed on to the Board since it runs the Drug Court.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the County received a bankruptcy judge; with Mr. Van Bever responding bankruptcy judges come to the Justice Center to perform local proceedings. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what cost does the County bear for them being here; with Judge Silvernail responding the cost of additional electricity services for their computer.

Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board just got responses to the questions asked at the first workshop; Commissioner O'Brien is asking additional questions, and a lot of other questions will come up today; and expressed concern about setting the millage on Tuesday. He stated there may be outstanding question; and inquired if Tuesday is the last day for millage. Mr. Jenkins advised staff needs a couple of days to fill out the forms and get them to Tallahassee. Mr. Boynton advised the forms have to be in the Property Appraiser's office no later than August 4, 2000. Commissioner Scarborough stated it will be difficult for the Board as there will still be questions; and it would be imprudent of the Board to set the millage if it does not have the answers to its questions by Tuesday.

Discussion ensued on setting the millage and getting answers by Tuesday.

Commissioner Voltz inquired if Mr. Van Bever said they were going to help fund Drug Court; with Mr. Van Bever responding yes, by allowing use of a position that the Legislature granted where funding is effective October 1. Commissioner O'Brien stated the County never had Drug Court before; with Mr. Van Bever advising there is currently an operating Drug Court. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what is the question now; with Commissioner Voltz advising it was going to be cut from the budget. Mr. Van Bever stated they support the program, want it to stay operational, and are willing to give the County that position. Commissioner O'Brien stated there is evidence that says more money is spent incarcerating people for drug use than would be spent if they were put into rehab; rehab is not always successful, but it is less expensive; and Drug Court is very important. Judge Silvernail stated it is important to the judges as well; and emphasized the need for treatment beds. Commissioner Voltz inquired if Judge Silvernail is talking about juvenile or adult beds; with Judge Silvernail responding both. Chairman Higgs stated $250,000 is coming from the State to District 7 for the prototype treatment program, so there will be some additional flexibility in terms of sentencing. Commissioner Voltz stated she has an appointment with Rick Bedson to talk about the issue, and probably will be going to Tallahassee to discuss the issue with the Secretary, because there are no beds in Brevard County. Commissioner O'Brien advised of privately-funded programs; and suggested inviting those programs to come to the County. Commissioner Carlson stated Brevard County pushed to get the money from the State for the prototype, but the money and control are going to Orlando; and inquired if that will reduce the amount of control the County has over the prototype; with Judge Silvernail responding it flows through that District 7 Board, and Brevard County needs to get the lion's share of that money.

Discussion ensued on the funding, County's chances of getting funding, and contracting mechanisms.

Motion by Commissioner Carlson, seconded by Commissioner Scarborough, to authorize use of Mike Fitzgerald to assist the Judiciary with grant writing, and lobbyist Guy Spearman to coordinate legislative matters in FY 2000-2001. Motion carried and ordered unanimously.

Chairman Higgs inquired if there are any questions about other judicial services; with Commissioner Scarborough stated Commissioner O'Brien asked about operating expenditures. Commissioner Carlson stated she had questions about the Criminal Justice Trust Fund.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: CLERK OF COURTS AND OTHER JUDICIAL SERVICES

Chairman Higgs stated the Board has questions about other judicial services. Chief Deputy Clerk Jim Giles advised he has not seen that budget, but will try to answer as best he can.

Senior Budget Analyst Neil Boynton stated other judicial services is a component of the budget that relates to the court operations, but is not under the control of any operating agency; and it is presented as a separate program. County Manager Tom Jenkins inquired who processes the payments; with Mr. Boynton responding County Finance has people designated to insure any court-directed payments are in accordance with the law or court orders; and he monitors the budget.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he would expect a better explanation of the increase in the funding mechanism to other judicial services and how Title IV applies to this as well. He stated a simple balance sheet would answer his questions; with Mr. Boynton responding he can provide that and a detailed summary of the expenses. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if Mr. Boynton is comfortable being responsible for $6 million to $7 million of expenditures for other judicial services. Mr. Boynton stated this is an uncontrolled aspect of the budget; and he monitors it, tries to predict what will happen, and sets the budget for next year, but does not assume responsibility. Management Services Director Stockton Whitten stated the payments are made through County Finance. Mr. Boynton stated County Finance has the obligation to insure payments are made in accordance with law and court orders; they have a couple of people who are experts at it; and he deals with them during budget development and monitoring. Mr. Giles noted the person primarily responsible is Bonnie Callin who has been doing it for approximately 15 years; what she reviews is whether there is a judge's order to pay the costs; Finance does not determine whether the costs are appropriate or not; and the courts control that expense.

Discussion ensued on conflict attorneys, responsibility for indigent defendants, items passing through Consent Agenda, and contract with court reporters.

Commissioner Carlson inquired about transfer of funds from Criminal Justice Trust Fund to the State Attorney and Public Defender, and how those funds show up in the State Attorney and Public Defender's budgets. Mr. Boynton advised the $688,601 comes into the Fines and Forfeitures fund; and it becomes part of the $6.7 million that is passed through to the Clerk, State Attorney and Public Defender. Commissioner Carlson stated she does not see that in the budget; with Mr. Boynton responding it loses its identity; and if the Criminal Justice Trust Fund went away, it would not reduce the County's obligation to support the State Attorney and Public Defender. Mr. Jenkins advised it shows up as a General Fund transfer. Mr. Boynton stated that keeps it clear that the County has this obligation, and the fact that it has a revenue source is a benefit, but the legal obligation does not end with the revenue source. Commissioner Carlson inquired about fees collected by the Clerk of the Courts for County court services which are remitted monthly to the Board; with Mr. Boynton advising it appears under charges for services in other judicial services. Commissioner Carlson stated the funds allocated for Internal Audit positions are being used to pay for overtime and part-time help; with Mr. Giles advising that is part of the Clerk's budget, and there are a number of matters that need to be covered along with that. Commissioner Carlson inquired when does the Clerk visualize filling the five positions; with Mr. Giles responding hopefully October 1, 2000; but with the current budget situation, all staff must be devoted to the court situation as much as possible.

Commissioner Scarborough inquired about capital outlay for other judicial services; with Mr. Whitten responding staff will give a further breakdown, but it is facilities improvements and equipment. Commissioner Scarborough inquired about service funds being mingled with other funds as part of another budget and where court facilities are reflected.

Discussion ensued on other judicial programs and court facilities being separate self-contained funds, funds not part of Facilities budget, and courthouse projects.

Budget Manager Dennis Rogero stated this year the Clerk of Courts budget has been divided into Commission-funded programs and self-sustaining programs; the overall cost of the Commission-funded programs increased 4.5% due to full-year funding of pay increases granted in the current fiscal year and four additional positions; and the transfer from the General Fund increased 5.75% primarily in the County court program due to increased workload. He stated in the self-sustaining portion of the Clerk of Courts budget there is an increase of 3.31% recommended for the next fiscal year primarily due to full-year funding of increases approved in the current fiscal year.

Commissioner Voltz inquired if the Board is going to discuss where the extra money is coming from. Mr. Jenkins stated a report was faxed out yesterday where Mr. Giles has done a forecast. Mr. Giles stated there have been problems with implementation of the court software; and explained how the old company was taken over by a new company. He stated problems with implementation, slowness in accessing different screens, and slowness associated with having computer equipment in Titusville and data entry in Viera have caused a huge amount of overtime; and they are focused on increasing student, temporary and part-time employees. He stated they are projecting by year end they will be over budget by $440,000, and that is after taking all the money in the Public Records Modernization Trust Fund to reimburse capital and computer-related expenses. He advised of recent improvements and status of workload. He stated they are working with the software company; and the Supreme Court has awarded grants in the amount of $417,000 because it believes the system is worth using to develop electronic filing and sentencing. Commissioner Voltz inquired where is the extra money going to come from; with Mr. Whitten responding it has to come out of the current year's reserve, and that would reduce next year's fund balance. Commissioner Voltz inquired what if the Board does not fund it; with Mr. Jenkins noting that is a legal question. Mr. Giles stated if the Board does not fund it, he does not know that there is any recourse with the State; County staff may be looking strictly at County Court, but the Clerk looks at the total court system; and if employees are not paid, they will not work, and if they do not work, the court system will collapse. Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson stated it is necessary to pay people to work under the Fair Labor Standards; if overtime is incurred, it must be paid unless there are provisions for comp time; and there are restrictions on when and how comp time can be taken. She stated she assumes most of the positions being addressed are overtime eligible; with Mr. Giles responding the Clerk's Office is trying to recruit and train students so as to reduce overtime; and they are tracking both overtime and temporary salaries. Mr. Jenkins stated the Clerk as a constitutional officer had a budget, and the only way he can balance his budget is to reduce the workforce; the Clerk made the decision to work overtime, not the Board; and the Clerk is saying there are two choices, the Board can come up with the money or he can not work people. Mr. Jenkins noted it is the Clerk's obligation, not the Board's, as the Board did not spend that money.

Commissioner Carlson inquired about the situation with the contractor so the public will better understand the Clerk's problems. Mr. Giles stated the Clerk used the old in-house developed court software dating back to 1982 until November 19, 1999 when there was a conversion to Progressive; and the change was necessary because of the Y2K situation and because the system was not responsive and several applications were not integrated. He stated the Clerk researched the options for four years; and worked with the Florida Association of Court Clerks on buying court software. He advised of the contract proposed by the Florida Association of Court Clerks at $1.3 million for Brevard County not including a criminal system; and explained why the Clerk decided to go with Progressive which offered a fully-integrated system at $600,000. He noted close to $400,000 more has been incurred since that time for modifications and improvements; and advised of the improvements. He stated it was not a bad decision; and it would have been much more expensive to go with the other contract. Commissioner Carlson inquired if the company the Clerk has been dealing with is bankrupt; with Mr. Giles responding yes, but the company he is dealing with now is solvent. He stated when Progressive announced it was going out of business, the chief architect for the computer program let the County know he was staying with the project and most of the lead analysts and programmers would contract with him; and what was lost were those people above him. He stated following the announcement, six employees came to the County and stayed for one week, so that support did not diminish although there were problems leading up to that.

Commissioner Scarborough inquired about taking money out of reserves; with Mr. Jenkins responding the thought was anything taken from reserves this year would be replaced next year because there is a policy of keeping a 10% reserve in the General Fund. Mr. Jenkins noted the reserve is a fluid number; and everything being done with the reserve is based on an estimate. Chairman Higgs inquired if this is a current year expenditure; with Mr. Jenkins responding yes.

Ms. Wilson stated if the Board refuses to fund the Clerk and there is inadequate personnel, there could be obligations the Board would have to coordinate with the Clerk's office to see what services he would be able to continue to fulfill. She stated the Clerk is saying he will not have staff to do things; and the Board needs to determine what the fallout would be from not having staff available for certain things, especially as it relates to the court system.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he and the County Manager spoke earlier about the same problem; and they did not know legally if the Clerk of Courts could borrow money that is needed now because of the computer problem and pay it back over a period of years from fines he collects. Ms. Wilson noted the Fines and Forfeitures are dictated by Statute; with Mr. Jenkins advising Commissioner O'Brien is talking about the fees the Clerk generates. Mr. Jenkins noted the incumbent Clerk is leaving office in December, 2000; Commissioner O'Brien is referring to a multi-year agreement; and he does not know how binding that would be on the new Clerk. Ms. Wilson advised that is something the Board needs to look into in more detail. Mr. Jenkins stated Commissioner O'Brien is saying front the money and then have the Clerk pay it back over three to five years. Chairman Higgs stated there would be an increase in the FY 2001 budget of approximately $400,000 over the existing year if the shortfall was funded; that would come out of the reserve; and then next year's budget would be reduced to fund the shortfall from this year. Mr. Jenkins advised several Clerk's Department budgets have been reduced; the one that is going up the most is County Court over which there is practically no control; and cutting County Court is difficult to achieve. Chairman Higgs noted it is difficult to take it out of reserve as well.

Commissioner Voltz inquired what percentage of fines and court charges are actually collected; with Mr. Giles responding there was a statewide study six to seven years ago which indicated for felony cases, it may be 5%, and for traffic tickets it may be 72%. Commissioner Voltz stated there are a number of people who could possibly pay; and inquired if the Clerk uses a collection agency. Mr. Giles responded that is what Judge Silvernail was talking about previously; and commented on Judge McCluan's collection court and use of a collection agency.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired about negative figures shown under charges for services for Finance and Minutes and Records; with Mr. Giles providing an explanation. Mr. Giles stated the Board did not adequately fund County Court, so $203,575 came from the Clerk's fee account; the fee-funded Circuit Court is several million dollars more than the fees that are collected, so money is pulled from real estate transactions to fund the Clerk's court support function; and that is going to be a real issue with the Article V Committee. He stated to fund the cost of the Clerk's support, fees will have to go up for the County court to be removed from the Board's subsidy; and there is going to be an outcry. Commissioner O'Brien inquired where would he find the income derived from the fees that are charged; with Mr. Giles pointing out where the fees are reflected in the budget submitted on May 9, 2000. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if collections are $6.3 million; with Mr. Giles responding not yet, but the plan is to collect $6.4 million, with the 5% statutorily required deduction, and add the transfers from the Board of $8.38 million to come up with a total budget of $14,439,000. Commissioner O'Brien stated the Clerk still owes "x" dollars for the overtime cost incurred this year; and inquired how much is that above the budget the Board is looking at; with Mr. Giles responding approximately $440,000. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the Clerk cannot find $400,000 in a $14.4 million budget; with Mr. Giles advising the Clerk has already found a lot or it would have been more. Commissioner O'Brien stated no one wants to see anyone lose their job because of a mistake by a computer company or other problems; and he is certain that upon looking closer at the entire budget, the Clerk can find places where a printer can last longer or a car can last one more year to find a way to do it. Mr. Giles advised the Clerk is not buying cars or equipment unless it speeds up the work and cuts the overtime; personnel are not being hired outside of the courts area; and all resources are being put into the courts dilemma. Commissioner O'Brien inquired about operating expenses for Minutes and Record and capital outlay for the Finance Department. Mr. Giles stated the Clerk is requesting that for the coming year; it is necessary for the Finance Department; the bulk has to do with the network; and they are also asking to integrate the current imaging system so the County Manager and employees can access an entry under the accounting system and call up a document. Commissioner O'Brien inquired how that is being done now; with Mr. Giles responding it is being scanned; but it is necessary to go to a separate system to access the invoice. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what will it do financially; with Mr. Giles responding it will do more for County employees than for Finance employees. Commissioner O'Brien inquired about a capital outlay request for $122,000; and suggested some purchases be put off for another year. Mr. Giles stated page 1.2 is the summary for the Board-funded departments, and page 1.14 shows a listing of the items that make up the total. Mr. Giles noted the equipment purchased by the Information Services Department is allocated between the Courts, Finance, etc.; and the full listing is shown in the May 9, 2000 submittal on page 19. Discussion ensued on costs and necessity of certain items. Commissioner O'Brien requested the Clerk go over the budget again, especially in capital outlay to try to find money to solve the problem; with Mr. Giles responding he will do so.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: SHERIFF

Budget Manager Dennis Rogero inquired if the Board would prefer he speak to the preliminary budget or to the revision that was provided to the Board yesterday. Chairman Higgs stated the revisions staff provided address some of the issues, but to have the bigger picture would be helpful. Mr. Rogero stated the entire Sheriff's requested budget for FY 2000-2001 is $56,101,861; the preliminary budget submitted for FY 2000-20001 is $50,809,648; and that reflects a General Fund increase of 3.96% and funded program changes of just over $2.2 million. He stated the Budget Office revision provided yesterday recommends the Sheriff's Office budget at $51,651,785, an increase of 1.43% from the amended current year budget; and General Fund support for this budget reflects an increase of almost $1.5 million or 3.96%, and includes funded program changes of $2.2 million.

Chairman Higgs requested staff summarize the changes in the MSTU budget. Management Services Director Stockton Whitten stated the MSTU compensation expenditures will be increased from approximately $5.3 million to $6.3 million which includes overtime and an 8% salary increase, based on the Sheriff's calculations; it will reduce the MSTU capital improvement from $396,000 to $197,000; to achieve these increases the MSTU Law Enforcement millage was increased from .8815 mill to .9805 mill; and that is an increase in terms of revenue based on the certified roll of $769,297. He stated that necessitated a reduction of the General Fund millage of an additional 1.07% from the revised certified reduction of .7 mill; and that would leave unallocated in the General Fund millage approximately $421,341 for other priorities of the Board.

Sheriff Philip Williams stated he appreciates the work everyone has done regarding the MSTU that will allow them to maintain the current level of service into next year; it will allow them to begin the year with 129 deputies on the road; and that will allow the residents of unincorporated Brevard County to receive the same level of service they received last year.

Chairman Higgs inquired if that amount will get through the year. Deborah Barker, Sheriff's Finance Director, stated the revised proposal will allow the Sheriff to maintain the current level of service of 129 MSTU road patrol deputies for the entire fiscal year.

Commissioner Scarborough stated the Sheriff is taking some from reserves, but also some positions are being left unfilled; and inquired if this will allow those positions to be filled; with Sheriff Williams responding yes.

*Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson's absence and County Attorney Scott Knox's presence were noted at this time.

Sheriff Williams stated he met earlier this year with the Budget staff to work through the projects to the end of this year; four or five positions were left open to balance the budget; they have been able to put some deputies back on the road; and advised of reserves for a hurricane. Commissioner Scarborough inquired how many positions are not filled at the current time; with Sheriff Williams responding five in the MSTU.

Chairman Higgs inquired what kind of raises have the deputies gotten in the last several years; with Sheriff Williams responding the MSTU deputies, corrections officers, and anyone holding the rank of agent have all received the same raises over the last three years. He stated the Board has authorized raises of 18% over the last three years; and this year he is seeking a raise of 8%. Chairman Higgs noted some of the information indicated the deputies had not received an increase; and she wanted to be sure that was on the record. Sheriff Williams noted that information did not come from his office.

Commissioner Voltz inquired how many deputies are under the Community-Oriented Policing program; with Ms. Barker responding 20. Commissioner Voltz stated they were never MSTU deputies, but were add-ons; with Sheriff Williams advising they were add-ons through the grant program and supplemented through MSTU funding. Commissioner Voltz inquired if the current budget is the highest ever for the Sheriff's office; with Sheriff Williams responding each year it is higher, and to his knowledge this is the highest the Sheriff's office ever had. Commissioner Voltz inquired if the total number of employees is the highest; with Sheriff Williams responding affirmatively. Commissioner Voltz stated the number of road deputies is the lowest; with Sheriff Williams disagreeing. Sheriff Williams stated in 1996 the number of road deputies was 169 and there are 195 now, including supervisors. Director of Administrative Services Steve Kreuzkamp stated since Sheriff Williams has taken office the number of sworn personnel on the street has increased approximately 12%; corrections has increased approximately 6%; and non-sworn personnel has increased approximately 2.5 to 3%.

Commissioner Carlson inquired if with the 8% increase, will the salaries be competitive; with Sheriff Williams responding affirmatively. Ms. Barker stated the starting salary with an 8% increase will be $13.31 per hour or $27,685.

Discussion ensued on competitive salaries, misinformation on Commissioners' salaries and deputies pay increases, employee pay increases priority item, Board not cutting Sheriff's budget, Sheriff making decisions on his budget, and setting the record straight.

Sheriff Williams stated according to the submission by the Budget Office, the funding in the MSTU would have eliminated 21 positions, so the problem is with the documents from the Budget Office. He stated 90% of the increases to his budget over the last three years have gone to employee benefits; the Statutes set his salary based on the population of the County; and he has never sought, nor requested a pay raise from the Board or any other board.

Commissioner Voltz requested Sheriff Williams address some of the issues with the deputies because she does not want anyone to think the Board does not want them to get an increase. Sheriff Williams stated if he was on the Board, he would be gratified that deputies care enough to be present today on their off time to see the Board working for them. Commissioner Voltz stated she appreciates everything the deputies do. Sheriff Williams stated the deputies should applaud the efforts of the Board to not only fund the salary increases, but fund the necessary equipment. Commissioner Voltz noted the Board has done that.

Chairman Higgs stated over time the Board has been supportive of the deputies; there has been a misunderstanding; and some of the signs she saw as she came in are an unfair representation of what has been done.

Commissioner O'Brien stated Sheriff Williams proposes to spend $800,000 for the MSTU from cash forward reserves in the year 2000; and inquired what that will be used for. He stated the year 2000 MSTU revenues have risen by $326,000; compensation costs would only be $221,000; and the additional funding that has been created in the MSTU with the present rate, it would be possible to compensate the officers; with Sheriff Williams responding that is not correct. Ms. Barker stated the issue within the MSTU is the tax rate; the $800,000 has been depleted by paying deputies' salaries; and the tax rate for the MSTU is now and has been for the past several years inadequate to fund the current level of service of 129 road deputies. She commented on the rollback rate, consistent decrease in tax rate with exception of this year, unfilled vacancies when Sheriff Williams came into office being filled, marginal increases to deputies, and expenditures exceeding revenues. She stated the tax base is not high enough to accept the expenditures of 129 road deputies; in prior years when the funds were not tapped to their entirety, revenues exceeded expenditures, so each year there was a little bit of cash carry forward; those savings rolled forward because pay raises were not given to maintain qualified deputies and positions were left vacant; so prior to Sheriff Williams these dollars rolled forward. She stated when Sheriff Williams went into office, he funded that to put the deputies on the road and give them an equitable pay raise, that used up the cash carry forward; this is the last year there have been available funds; and it is not a new issue. She stated the Sheriff has talked to each of the Commissioners; staff has worked diligently with the Budget Office; and the issue will not go away this year. She stated if the Board approves the budget at .9805 mill, it will allow funding for 129 MSTU deputies, but they will be back next year because the tax rate is inadequate to fund 129 road deputies. Commissioner O'Brien stated in 1999 the budget forward was depleted by $262,000; now there is a desire to deplete it by $800,000; and it appears that the allocated dollars are for operating expenditures and compensation. Ms. Barker stated out of a $6 million budget, there is $300,000 in operating expenditures. Commissioner O'Brien advised of increases in the MSTU budget; with Ms. Barker responding they are based on new growth; and the tax rate as proposed was .8815 mill, and now has been proposed at .9805 mill. Commissioner O'Brien stated last year the Sheriff depleted the fund by $262,000, but this year it is $800,000. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated he disagrees with Commissioner O'Brien's definition of depletion; the $800,000 went to pay 18 MSTU deputies their salaries, benefits and overtime for FY 1999-2000; and the $262,103 was used for similar purposes for six MSTU deputies in FY 1998-1999. Ms. Barker stated in the amended budget in 1999-2000, the balance forward is $1 million; but the Sheriff has used $800,000 of those dollars to fund the deputies, so all there is to carry forward into next year is $200,000. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what was used prior to that; with Sheriff Williams responding for General fund if there is excess in the budget each year, that money has to be turned back to the County; the MSTU is a dedicated fund for uniformed deputies, the vehicles they drive, and their operating expenses; and if there is a surplus caused by holding vacancies open, that is rolled forward to start off the next year. Sheriff Williams advised if he does not give a pay raise, it is the same money rolling forward every year; but when the vacancies are filled, pay raises are given, and the millage is not raised, it goes the other way, eating up the fund. He stated in 1997, 1998 and 1999, his office maintained the level of service without additional revenue; the moment of truth comes in 2000; he and Mr. Abels brought that to the attention of the Board; and he has been working to put that off as long as possible, but this year it has crescendoed. He stated he has been asking the Board for help in reallocating some resources so his office can continue to maintain level of service; and that proposal is before the Board today. Commissioner O'Brien stated one of the documents indicated there were six unfilled MSTU deputy positions; and that would increase surplus. Sheriff Williams stated the cost of a deputy sheriff with a vehicle is $72,801. Commissioner O'Brien stated six times $72,801 is a large amount not spent. Sheriff Williams advised it was not carried forward the whole year; and advised of weekly monitoring of the budget, holding back funds for potential natural disasters, responsibility Countywide, and to supplement small municipalities. Commissioner O'Brien stated if six positions at an average cost of $75,000 each were not filled, that is $450,000 surplus rolled back into the MSTU; with Sheriff Williams responding that would be if they were unfilled all year. Ms. Barker advised that would also be if a new car was bought for each one of the deputies. Commissioner O'Brien stated he would like to find out exactly how long the six positions were unfilled; he is disturbed by the $800,000 expenditure within the MSTU; and he would like to have it broken down further as to the intent of the expenditure; and this morning the Sheriff is saying it is for deputy salaries. Sheriff Williams advised it can be for nothing else; it funds law enforcement for unincorporated Brevard County; and it cannot be used to supplement the General Fund or anything because it is a dedicated fund for the unincorporated residents. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised at present there are six MSTU deputy position vacancies; the average vacancy is 2.5 months; and the approximate savings in salaries, benefits and overtime is approximately $175,000. He advised of meetings with Mr. Whitten and Mr. Rogero to discuss managing the vacancies so they do not get in the red at the conclusion of the fiscal year; and they keep some reserve for emergencies so they do not have to come back to the County because they run out of money dealing with an emergency.

Commissioner Scarborough stated in the memorandum of July 19, 2000, staff took it to .9805 mill; and inquired if the cap is one mill and it works out to another $200,000; with Mr. Whitten responding it is a little less that $200,000. Commissioner Scarborough noted the Sheriff has complete discretion over his budget; the Board can ask questions because it is going to set the millage; he sees a reoccurring problem, and there is a need to work through it so there will be quality law enforcement. He inquired why the millage was not taken to one mill if there are shortfalls; with Mr. Jenkins responding staff was trying to retain some balance in the General Fund in case there were other issues. Mr. Jenkins advised there is still $421,000 that is unallocated; and the Board could take it to one mill and have $221,000 left. Chairman Higgs inquired what would that do to the aggregate. Commissioner Scarborough inquired why is there so much concern about the aggregate; with Mr. Jenkins responding that is a policy call for the Board, but one of the Board's goals was to reduce taxes by 2%. Chairman Higgs inquired what is the aggregate millage rate with the proposal from yesterday; with Mr. Whitten responding 6.900 mills, which is less than the current year aggregate. Mr. Jenkins clarified it is more than rollback, but less than the current aggregate. Chairman Higgs inquired what is the current year aggregate; with Mr. Whitten responding 6.9062 mills. Mr. Jenkins advised the Board could leave the aggregate at the same level it is now, and generate a little more money.

Commissioner Voltz stated there is nothing in the Sheriff's budget for the Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC); the Department of Juvenile Justice has approved $210,000 funding for this year; everyone would like to see the Center open 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and she would like the Sheriff to work with the Chiefs of Police to have a community buy-in on the Juvenile Assessment Center. She inquired what is the Sheriff's position on the Juvenile Assessment Center. Sheriff Williams advised of his in-kind contributions in terms of use of labor, experience, vehicles, etc. to the State program; stated his primary responsibility is to deliver law enforcement, detention and court services; in the budget he has asked for six additional corrections officers, two of which could supplement at the JAC to allow extra operating hours; but that request was cut. He advised of his use and contributions to the JAC; and stated he believes in the program, but until he can adequately put deputies on the road and staff the corrections facility which has over 1,100 inmates, the JAC cannot be a priority.

Discussion ensued on who has responsibility, no money in the Sheriff's budget for JAC, Sheriff's in-kind contributions, loss of experience at the jail, overcrowding at the jail, keeping JAC from closing, contracting with a private security company, JAC responsibility of Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), and lack of budget from DJJ.

Commissioner Voltz stated there is some money in the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant in addition to what has already been allocated; she would like to use that this year for the JAC; and in the meantime, she would like the Sheriff to work with the Police Chiefs for next year because the police officers in the municipalities are saving a lot of time because of the JAC. Sheriff Williams stated for the south end of the County, the JAC on Sarno Road is a godsend; commented on money generated by the Sheriff's Office; and stated the Sheriff's office is the enforcement arm of Judge McCluan's collections court. Commissioner Voltz stated if they do get the increased funding, the $3 court fee that goes toward the JAC could be increased dramatically to where it could pay for the entire thing. Sheriff Williams stated the projections for the collections court could increase General Fund revenue by $2 to $3 million; and commented on grants, fines and forfeiture funds, and creative funding for the JAC. Sheriff Williams stated he will explore private funding, grant funding, and any cooperative effort with other law enforcement officers. Commissioner Voltz stated another JAC is needed in North or Central Brevard to benefit the entire community. Sheriff Williams stated in conjunction with DJJ, they have been able to use the Detention Center as a north area JAC; a lot of things are in the works; and they may be able to do better with the Legislators than they did last year. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated he has a clarifying document for the timeline and contributions of the Sheriff's Office to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the documents he received this morning say, "to recruit and maintain the workforce, pay increases must be afforded to accomplish pay parity at a cost of $215,832 for MSTU officers." Mr. Rogero stated that figure has been revised to reflect a little bit over $6.3 million provided by the Sheriff's office. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what is the cost of the raise for the MSTU officers; with Mr. Rogero responding it began as $304,000 and is now $215,823; and it went down because they included the certified valuation figure and raised the millage. Mr. Jenkins inquired if Mr. Rogero is saying that is the total cost or the impact on the budget; with Mr. Rogero responding impact on the budget, and the total cost is $304,490. Commissioner O'Brien stated due to growth and other matters, the amount of money created in the MSTU has grown by $469,000, so the taxes raised under the MSTU will compensate for the raises of all deputies of $304,000 with $165,000 left over; and the document says the Sheriff has reduced the MSTU capital improvement program to $198,000, so it is only $30,000 apart. Ms. Barker stated there are two issues; they are not talking about the $800,000 that is included in the MSTU budget that is derived from tax revenues; however, that is not allowed to go to the MSTU deputies operations, compensation, or benefits; there is a statutory reduction of $371,000 that comes off the top that they do not see, and $432,000 goes to the Clerk's office and the Property Appraiser to administer the taxes; so there is an $800,000 loss. Commissioner O'Brien stated he is not sure he sees it that way; the taxes are generating close to $7 million, and raised for deputies are only $304,000.

Discussion ensued on the statutory reduction and charges by Clerk and Property Appraiser.

Commissioner O'Brien stated it was paid each year, so there is nothing new there. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated they are not getting funded for the cost of doing progressive law enforcement business; and financially speaking, they are bleeding to the tune of $800,000+ dollars on a $7.2 million budget which is a lot of money. Commissioner O'Brien stated last year it was $700,000 off the top. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated they could have used that money to put more deputies in the unincorporated area of Brevard County. Commissioner O'Brien reiterated the money was there last year as well. Sheriff Williams stated they may want to explore a municipal service taxing unit with local creation and application only and whether the Statute would apply in terms of taking money off the top. He stated nothing can be done about years that have been lost; but in the future, it may be possible to work on it. Commissioner O'Brien stated the issue goes back to the $800,000; last year it was less, and the year before less than that, etc.; that came from MSTU dollars; and the $800,000 this year is nothing different than occurred in prior years. He stated the only increase that is different this year is $304,000 to fund deputies raises; but there is also increase in the MSTU through growth, new houses, etc. of $469,000 certified by the Property Appraiser. Sheriff Williams stated the bottom line of the Budget Office analysis is that in order to maintain 121 deputies at the salary with an 8% pay raise, even with capital being cut, one mill or slightly less would be required. He stated that will get him to the same position next year unless costs decrease dramatically; the MSTU concept created in 1976 started at .66 mill; in the year 2000, they are at .88 mill; and he would like to have been able buy cars throughout those years. He stated the MSTU for law enforcement may have gotten to the point where it is no longer the viable option; and it may be necessary to look at other ways to fund law enforcement for unincorporated Brevard County. Chairman Higgs inquired if Sheriff Williams would support an impact fee to fund law enforcement and the jail needs. Sheriff Williams responded it would be a wise thing to consider, and the Board should consider all ideas; and commented on impact of tourists and criminals from out-of-County. Chairman Higgs stated she agrees with Sheriff Williams' support of impact fees, and hopes the Board can bring that back.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the property values of Brevard County have been steadily rising; the MSTU funding has increased proportionately; this year it has increased by almost half a million dollars, but the compensation for the deputies is far less than that; he is not sure he buys off on how the $800,000 is being spent; and it appears to be financial maneuvering. Sheriff Williams stated he has a set of figures Commissioner O'Brien can examine concerning the $800,000. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised of a document giving depictions of 8% and 10% salary increases and the costs; and explained the figures. He stated the MSTU is the front line patrol force; a deputy would graduate from the Academy, get certified by the State, and his or her first assignment would ordinarily be to an MSTU; they would serve there getting their basic law enforcement street knowledge over a period of years; and later on, usually no earlier than a two-year period, they would compete to go to other areas of the force or stay on the road and accrue additional professional experience. Commissioner O'Brien stated the budget for the MSTU shows 129 full-time officers; the number of officers has not changed; and inquired how were salary, benefits and overtime paid last year. Ms. Barker stated they were complementing the ad valorem tax revenue that was received from the tax rate with a cash carry forward from prior years; if they had been unable to use the reserves, they would have not been able to fund the level of service because the current tax rate is and has been inadequate to maintain level of service; and explained the figures provided by the Budget Office. She stated this is the last year the Sheriff has an amount available; but going into next year, there is only $200,000 which is not enough to fund the expenses. Commissioner O'Brien stated he still has a problem because there are still the same number of officers. Sheriff Williams stated there were a number of vacancies when he took office that were not filled over the years; each year a different amount of money was rolled forward; and pay increases were not given during some of those years. He stated when the positions were filled and pay raises were given without a tax increase, the money rolled forward was eaten up; and advised of a grant proposal which was declined last year because of inability to come up with the match. He stated they are at the point where they face laying off deputies and giving no pay raises or increasing the millage rate in the MSTU to what has been recommended; and in order for the Board to stay on track with its goals, a millage rate will have to be reduced in some other area.

Chairman Higgs stated she understands spending down the reserves in 1998 and 1999; in 1998-99 there was $1 million in reserves; and inquired if there were vacancies in 1998 and 1999. Sheriff Williams stated from time to time someone resigns. Chairman Higgs stated the million was gone in two years; and inquired if those vacancies were left; with Sheriff Williams responding they did not leave vacancies in those years, although there may have been some through normal attrition. Ms. Barker advised of the need to complement the budget with the $1 million in the two years. Sheriff Williams advised of increases in expenditures. Ms. Barker stated in 1995 and each year coming forward five deputies were added under the Community Oriented Policing grants; they started at $375,000 funding; and each year the federal funding declined which required the Board to complement more. Chairman Higgs requested the Sheriff summarize the difference between the cash forward in 1998-1999 and 1999-2000; with Sheriff Williams advising he will itemize it.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired if all the COP grant deputies were hired; with Sheriff Williams responding of the 129 deputies, 20 are still supplemented by grants. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated the program is drawing to a close; COP's 5 was declined due to lack of matching funds; there is one federal check left for approximately $103,000; and the MSTU has completely absorbed the salary of the 20 deputies over the year.

Chairman Higgs requested figures for overtime for FY 1999-2000 and 2000-2001; with Ms. Barker responding she will provide that.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired about vehicle replacement, and stated a $137,000 shortfall is indicated. Sheriff Williams stated he schedules the cars out after 110,000 to 120,000 miles. Commissioner O'Brien stated there are 57 vehicles that all have 90,000+ on them; and they are looking for $137,000. Sheriff Williams stated Mr. Jenkins needs to clarify; with Mr. Jenkins advising that is based on the alternative sent out yesterday by Mr. Whitten and Mr. Rogero where the Sheriff is given additional General Fund dollars. Chairman Higgs inquired if that is the recommended MSTU budget; with Mr. Jenkins responding it is the minimum level the Sheriff has to have to fund the MSTU.

Discussion ensued on revenue, expenditure rate, and overtime figures for MSTU.

Commissioner O'Brien suggested the Sheriff get together with staff to try to make sense out of the numbers; and requested information on how much money was generated by the MSTU last year, how much money is expected to be generated by the MSTU this year, and the budget for the MSTU last year.

Discussion resumed on vehicles, ways to generate revenue, citations by municipalities, division of citation revenue, lieutenants and sergeants paid by General Fund, equity issues, and not wanting deputies to write tickets for revenue.

Commissioner Voltz stated the Sheriff said $72,000 is allowed for each MSTU deputy, but not every deputy has a car. Sheriff Williams stated $72,000 is what it costs his office to outfit a new employee with a car; and explained division of vehicles among deputies. Commissioner Voltz inquired if Sheriff Williams is asking for $72,000 per deputy in the budget; with Ms. Barker advising on the budget level, it is necessary to ask for what it costs to fund a person for compensation, benefits, etc.; and if that person is due a car, then the $23,000 to $25,000 is requested for a vehicle, but it would not be requested until they are due a vehicle.

Discussion ensued on workers' compensation and death benefits. Ms. Barker advised the Sheriff will have responsibility for death benefits, but will need dollars for that. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised the workers compensation issue has been resolved.

Commissioner O'Brien stated under the MSTU, it indicates a need for 17 new vehicles, but he does not see that many vehicles with more than 90,000 miles on them. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised they are projecting for next year. Sheriff Williams stated it takes six months to get a car; and advised of the methodology used to deal with vehicles. Commissioner O'Brien commented on the mileage on listed vehicles; with Mr. Kreuzkamp advising the 17 MSTU marked vehicles that are slated for replacement are one 1994 Caprice, four 1995 Caprices, eight 1996 Caprices, two Chevrolet Luminas, one wrecked Ford Crown Victoria, and one high mileage Crown Victoria. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if they are being replaced because of age or mileage, and stated Unit 1501 has 55,000 miles on it; with Mr. Kreuzkamp advising that is not one that is slated for replacement. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised of an email to Mr. Whitten providing information on the vehicles; and stated he can provide the mileages if the Board wishes. Commissioner O'Brien stated he would like to see that because if that number can be decreased, some money can be saved, and it might not be necessary to increase the millage.

Sheriff Williams stated a computer-aided dispatch system at $900,000 was denied; suggested a lease option spread over a five-year period; and advised of technological advances and maintenance costs for the present system.

Chairman Higgs inquired if a five-year lease is possible; with County Attorney Scott Knox responding yes. Chairman Higgs inquired if the Charter would preclude a lease; with Mr. Knox responding it depends on the threshold of the lease. Chairman Higgs stated this lease would be $900,000; with Mr. Knox responding he thinks the threshold is $1 million. Mr. Jenkins advised it can be leased forever, but it cannot be a lease purchase. Sheriff Williams advised they would have to make everything paid go toward a purchase price; with Mr. Jenkins advising that would be a purchase. Sheriff Williams stated they would be paid up and the company would lease the system to him for a dollar the last year.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he would like to work with the Sheriff on that because it is important to get that system. Sheriff Williams stated the new system would allow them the capability of notifying a neighborhood with a one-button alert if there was a lost child. Chairman Higgs stated there is that capability in Emergency Management; and she does not want to duplicate. Sheriff Williams advised it is not the same system. Mr. Jenkins advised the EMS system is limited; with Commissioner O'Brien advising the system the Sheriff is talking about can also send and receive photographs of stolen item, missing persons and other things. Sheriff Williams advised the system is oriented toward law enforcement, and does more than the reverse 911 system.

Chairman Higgs requested Sheriff Williams provide the Board with several scenarios; advised of other requests for budget increases; and stated the Board is supportive of addressing the need, but whether it can be done this year will depend on other demands on the budget and what scenarios are available for the Board to consider. Sheriff Williams stated traditionally those types of systems have been purchased, but the company may be willing to do a lease, and that would transfer the maintenance. Commissioner Carlson stated with evolution of technology, leasing may be the most prudent way to go. Commissioner Voltz stated she supports getting a new system; but inquired since someone has known for a number of years that a new system is needed, why it was not included in the five-year plan for capital outlay. Sheriff Williams stated it is his fault; he missed. Mr. Kreuzkamp explained their attempts to improve and update the system, cost to update, and use of 911 fees.

Chairman Higgs stated several years ago consolidation of 911 dispatch operations, the Sheriff, and Emergency Management were discussed; there have been significant advances in technology; and suggested revisiting the issue to see what is available and what consolidation of the functions would do before making a decision to move down a million-dollar road. Sheriff Williams stated Chairman Higgs is right; and there are some mission differences that may drive the Sheriff and EMS apart, but there may be technology to push them back together. Commissioner Voltz inquired if any other counties have done that; with Sheriff Williams responding Citrus County where the Sheriff is also the EMS person. Chairman Higgs stated if the functions could be consolidated, there could be a first-rate response system and significant savings over time; she would like to have that analysis before a decision is made; and requested County staff be a part of the analysis.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the present equipment may have value to a small community; and suggested selling the present system and rolling that money into paying for the new system; with Sheriff Williams advising there may be opportunities to sell it. Mr. Jenkins advised State law does require that it be auctioned. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated the challenge the buyer would have is cost of maintenance and difficulty getting support of the older system.

Sheriff Williams stated some positions were requested in the General Fund that were not approved by the Budget Office; and he would like to revisit that because there are some critical needs. He stated the two information specialists, two auto theft agents, and six corrections officers are a priority; and as judges are added and the special masters, more court deputies are needed. He stated some of the automobiles under General Fund need to be replaced; and they will work through the number again as Commissioner O'Brien suggested. He stated there are some grant matching funds shortfalls; there are some failsafe provisions from the grantor's position that require them to maintain and match with services; in the past they have aggressively matched grants with drug seized money; and they can continue to do that if it is appropriate, but they do not want to suffer under a federal grant audit the appearance that the Board is cutting the General Fund grant match in anticipation of forfeiture revenues because that cannot be done; and explained the penalties of doing that. He stated his office will aggressively pursue appropriate forfeitures; he anticipates having more forfeited money in the future, and will try to prevent the taxpayer from being burdened to match a grant if he can use drug seized money, when appropriate; but there should not be a budget adjustment that makes it appear that the Board is anticipating revenue from that. He stated when putting together the request for pay raises, he requested 8% for sworn personnel and 6% for civilians; usually they are equal to what the County is requesting for its civilian employees; however, this year they are not. He requested the Board consider giving his civilian employees an equal pay raise to the County employees which has been broken down as 5% on October 1, 4% cost of living increase in December, and the availability of a 2% exceptional performance increase. Mr. Jenkins advised it is now 4%, 4%, and 1 or 2%, starting in December. Sheriff Williams stated the Budget Office recommended 6% for his employees, starting out October 1, which may work out dollarwise. Commissioner O'Brien stated he hopes the Sheriff's civilian employees are on a parity with County employees. Sheriff Williams advised of position and pay equity studies; and stated if the County can do better than 6% for his employees, he would appreciate it. Commissioner O'Brien expressed concern that different Constitutional offices could have different pay scales.

Commissioner O'Brien stated Sheriff Williams mentioned other positions he wants included in the budget this year; and he sees no problem in trying to acquire them, but he has a document saying there are 50 new deputies and corrections officers, and seven civilian positions added since 1996; and he would like more information about that statement. Sheriff Williams stated he would need to know if the numbers are inclusive of court deputies, corrections officers, and the MSTU. Commissioner O'Brien stated he would like a breakdown.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the budget includes building a hangar for $300,000; and outlined the plan to achieve that. He stated the Sheriff's Aviation Unit is currently located at Merritt Island Airport; the hangar lease will increase by $1,000 a month; and inquired what was the rent before the increase; with Mr. Kreuzkamp responding they are presently negotiating a new lease rate; and they currently pay $1,287 a month for the hangar and adjoining offices. He advised of negotiations with the Airport Authority; and stated the dialogue has been constructive. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what does Mr. Kreuzkamp think the figure will end up for monthly rent; with Sheriff Williams responding he would like $1,700 but wanted to show the worst case scenario when budgeting for it. Commissioner O'Brien commented on the amount of rent that would be paid over ten and fifteen years; and stated it is better than building a new hangar that may have to be replaced in 15 to 20 years because by renting the landlord does all the maintenance. Mr. Kreuzkamp noted that is subject to negotiation. Sheriff Williams advised the inmates clean around there frequently which is of no cost to the airport or his office, but his office does a lot of the maintenance.

Commissioner O'Brien expressed concern about having four helicopters; and stated the cost of running a helicopter is $400 per flying hour. Lt. Coppola stated those figures are for a civilian certificated helicopter such as the ones Mosquito Control runs; but the Sheriff purchased his helicopters at $500 apiece; the maximum refurbishing on the night aircraft was approximately $40,000; and commented on insurance costs. He stated the whole budget is $89,000 per year; they flew 676 flight hours last year; so the cost is much less than Commissioner O'Brien mentioned, approximately $60 an hour direct operating cost. Commissioner O'Brien inquired how many pilots are there; with Lt. Coppola responding three pilots and a mechanic who is also a pilot; the three pilots are all deputies, and the mechanic is an auxiliary. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what is the payroll; with Ms. Barker responding the total figure is $256,000 for compensation and benefits. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the $89,000 is insurance; with Lt. Coppola responding it is rent, fuel, maintenance, electricity, telephone, and everything else. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if four helicopters are needed; with Lt. Coppola explaining the use of each helicopter. Commissioner O'Brien inquired what percentage of flights are over the unincorporated areas; with Lt. Coppola responding last year they answered 1,061 calls for service; 35% of those supported the municipalities; they fly two to three times a month for the Coast Guard; and commented on keeping statistics on flying time. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if Lt. Coppola flies over the swamps of Merritt Island at night; with Lt. Coppola responding they find a lot of stolen cars in that area. Commissioner O'Brien requested they not fly there after 10:00 p.m. without good reason. Commissioner O'Brien stated he does not know that four helicopters are needed; with Lt. Coppola responding he and the Sheriff believe they are needed. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the Sheriff is reimbursed for flights made for municipalities or the Coast Guard; with Lt. Coppola responding there is a federal law against charging those people; the only way to charge is to have a commercial aircraft, which would involve a cost of $1 million. Sheriff Williams advised they do attempt to recoup costs against criminal defendants, which is not prohibited by the FAA regulations. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if contraband recovery is approximately $350,000; with Lt. Coppola responding that is for marijuana recovery which the State estimates at $1,000 a plant; and they try to look for marijuana and stolen cars when flying to and from. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the funds received from FDLE are apparent within the budget; with Sheriff Williams responding they would be, but they are not tremendous. Lt. Coppola advised if was $1,800 to $2,000 last year; and if they wanted to receive more, they could fly more, but that is not the right thing to do.

Chairman Higgs inquired if some of the questions could be answered in other ways; and noted the length of the Agenda.

Commissioner O'Brien stated the new program says four additional telecommunicators will replace the positions eliminated by the dispatch service account reduction; and the Sheriff is looking for $130,000 for that. Ms. Barker explained how the Sheriff's Office contracted with the City of Cape Canaveral and the Port, how funds were collected and used, and why there is no revenue to support the dispatch positions. Commissioner O'Brien inquired where the direct revenue came from; with Ms. Barker responding it was a combination of General Fund funding or contracts with municipalities. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if the Cape and Port are no longer paying for dispatch; with Ms. Barker responding they are paying indirect cost rates in their contract that cover a variety of services including dispatch. Sheriff Williams commented on the contracted services; and stated they are paying for it, but instead of calling it dispatch services, it is called administrative fees. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if Sheriff Williams is saying they are paying into the General Fund, and he needs the money from the General Fund to pay the people; with Sheriff Williams responding that is correct. Commissioner O'Brien inquired about the figures in the five-year capital improvement program including vehicle maintenance; with Mr. Kreuzkamp advising maintenance is not covered in the CIP, which is only costs of new vehicles. Mr. Kreuzkamp stated they do not have the State bid yet, so they are estimating vehicle costs. Commissioner O'Brien stated he wants to know why the number jumps up so radically; and inquired if it is for vehicles; with Mr. Kreuzkamp responding it is exclusively for vehicles. Commissioner O'Brien stated the request is for 17 new vehicles; and if that is trimmed to eight vehicles, it goes back down to $178,000.

The meeting recessed at 1:47 p.m. and reconvened at 2:29 p.m.

*County Attorney Scot Knox's absence and Assistant County Attorney Shannon Wilson's presence were noted at this time.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired about the vehicles in the CIP; and stated it says the Sheriff wants to buy ten vehicles at $18,000 each. Sheriff Williams advised agents who do not have callout responsibilities use the vehicles. Commissioner O'Brien inquired about the 56 new marked Crown Victorias, five unmarked Crown Victorias, and whether every new car needs a new lightbar and radio. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised the initial request was for 63 vehicles. Sheriff Williams advised he may be able to cut down the number of vehicles and resubmit the request, but some capital will be needed for vehicles. Sheriff Williams advised radios are replaced where there is not a serviceable radio; they are not arbitrarily replacing vehicles; and he will try to reduce the number. Commissioner O'Brien stated the Sheriff purchased three new Harleys last year at a good price; with Sheriff Williams advising of the good resale value of the motorcycles. Commissioner O'Brien inquired about purchase of a wrecker at $40,000 and refurbishing another at $20,000; with Mr. Kreuzkamp advising one is a flatbed and the other is a wrecker. Mr. Kreuzkamp commented on resale of trucks, purchasing 15-passenger vans, and off-road capability. Commissioner O'Brien noted items in the five-year program; and inquired about the dual response for bombs; with Sheriff Williams advising of 97 bomb threats in 1999 and use of the bomb response unit robot. Commissioner O'Brien stated there are increases in the budget; and the Sheriff needs to find ways to trim it down including for travel requests. Commissioner O'Brien advised of duplication of aluminum carport, and discrepancies in the figures; with Mr. Kreuzkamp advising of quality differences and requirements for filing cabinets. Sheriff Williams advised of equipment purchased when McDonnell Douglas closed. Commissioner O'Brien noted a plotter printer is listed in the CIP; and inquired if the Sheriff could share the one that is located at the Agriculture Center. Sheriff Williams advised he will work with existing resources as it makes no sense to have two. Commissioner O'Brien advised he has problems with the budget brought forth to the Board; with further thought, things can be worked out and not have a tax increase; and deputies can still get their raises. He requested the Sheriff work with the County's Human Resources Director to insure there is pay parity for civilian personnel. He stated he has concerns about the $800,000 and expenses popping up all of a sudden; with Sheriff Williams stating he will provide audit statements. Commissioner O'Brien requested information on unfilled positions that were funded in the last year, and revenue from billboards on the Sheriff's Farm and shared antennas. Mr. Kreuzkamp advised he already provided that information; with Mr. Jenkins requesting he send it again.

Commissioner Voltz noted Judge Silvernail cut things from the judicial budget; the Sheriff needs to do the same; and she will mail her questions to him. Chairman Higgs requested Commissioner Voltz copy her questions to the other Commissioners.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

Management Services Director Stockton Whitten advised the proposed increase for the Supervisor of Elections is 6.9%; there is a $15,000 funded capital equipment request; and there is an unfunded request for $46,000 for a GIS computer operator.

Commissioner Voltz inquired if the issue concerning districts was squared away; with Supervisor of Elections Fred Galey advising he has no control over it. Commissioner Voltz inquired about redistricting; with Mr. Galey responding he would like to have the School Board and County Commission districts co-located. Commissioner Voltz inquired how much money will that save; with Mr. Galey responding several thousand dollars.

Discussion ensued on redistricting.

Commissioner Carlson inquired if the Supervisor does not get the unfunded position, will it affect ability to participate in any future redistricting actions. Mr. Galey responded he will find a way to do it; and explained why the GIS person is needed in Titusville and how precincts are drawn. He stated he needs the position, but with the budget crunch, if it is necessary to do without it, he will work the other people harder. Commissioner Voltz stated it could be readdressed at the mid-year budget. Mr. Galey advised of the complexity of drawing precincts. Commissioner Carlson inquired if there is some way Mr. Galey can work with the government channel to present election results.

Discussion ensued on Internet results, speed of results, and working with Sharon Luba.

Chairman Higgs noted the reserves have gone from $25,000 to $100,000 and the year before that it was nothing. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised the Supervisor had to be supplemented at mid-year because not enough was included last year. Mr. Galey stated he has tried to keep $100,000 in reserve each year; but last year the Board cut the supplement, and then took an additional $100,000. Mr. Jenkins stated it is a reasonable number for contingency for a budget of this size. Chairman Higgs noted the operating reserve is at zero in a number of other budgets; and it was zero in 1998. Mr. Galey advised the reserve was used in the last year; and if the Board chooses to zero it out, he will have to go back to Mr. Jenkins if he runs short. Mr. Jenkins stated it is prudent to provide some reserve because there are a lot of variables in the costs. Mr. Galey noted there are three elections this year; the September election will be in this year's budget; but the October and November elections will fall in next year's budget; and he will conserve all he can. He stated he would like to have a 45% to 50% turnout; commented on having sufficient ballots; and between not having to buy new booths, cards, etc. he was able to request $87,000 less than he would have requested. He advised of conversion of booths for the new ballots; commented on the good job done by his loyal poll workers; and stated the State law now requires he only have one Sheriff Deputy at each polling place.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired about the old voting machines; with Mr. Galey advising they were traded in, but the company failed to pick them up, so he sent them to salvage. He stated the tabulating machines were sold back to Melbourne Technical Services; one IBM punchcard reader will be going to Tallahassee for certification purposes; and there is no much call for used voting equipment. Commissioner O'Brien stated Mr. Galey's amended budget for 1999-2000 grew by $252,000, and in the 2000-2001 budget it is being expanded again by $171,000. He stated in 1999 Mr. Galey said buying the new system would save $72,000 a year; and inquired if the savings is in the budget. Mr. Galey responded his budget request would have been approximately $87,000 more if the County had not bought the equipment Mr. Galey noted his poll workers got a raise; it is a fair solid budget; and if the County grows to over 550,000 residents, there will be a lot of voters. He noted voters are starting to realize that the jury pool comes from the Drivers' License Bureau rather than voters registration.

Discussion ensued on jury pool from drivers licenses not voters registration, performance measurements, number of registered voters, purged voters, increasing turnout, and putting referendums on November elections.

Commissioner O'Brien stated since 1998 the Supervisor's budget has increased by $423,000; and he is concerned about it. Mr. Galey advised software and maintenance costs have gone up; but they will keep it down as best they can. He advised Brevard County is the ninth largest in the State.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: BREVARD CULTURAL ALLIANCE

Budget Manager Dennis Rogero stated the budget for FY 2000-2001 for Brevard Cultural Alliance is $115,000 which represents an increase of 4.55% from the current fiscal year budget of $110,000, due to a funded program change of $5,000 for additional operating expenses in County art services. He stated there are also two unfunded program changes totaling $37,500 for cultural grants and Arts in Public Places.

Kay Burk, President of the Brevard Cultural Alliance, introduced Kathy Beck, Treasurer of the Board of Directors of Brevard Cultural Alliance; and requested those supporting BCA to stand, with a group of people standing. She advised the work of the groups helps to build a better community and assists the EDC and business community in courting new business to the area. She stated they requested a $6,250 increase to reimburse BCA for action public art programming costs for the Loaned Art Program at the Government Center and the Justice Center; and they are working with Melbourne International Airport for a similar program. She stated they are requesting $15,000 on a one-time basis to have an economic arts and cultural plan study done; it will be a five-year plan; BCA is celebrating its 25th birthday; and advised of the need for a strong plan in place so the Cultural Alliance can move forward into a new generation with new leadership. She stated she has approached the Tourist Development Council to consider earmarking some funds that are currently in reserves for $9,600 to be added to the $15,000 with an $8,000 match from BCA to bring in a company to do a report. She advised of the need to build and strengthen relationships with the EDC, TDC, education community, and law enforcement; and commented on work with at risk youth programs. She stated BCA acts as the local arts and cultural affairs agency and serves as the County's liaison in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C.; and requested $3,750 on a reimbursement basis to cover the projected costs increases for supplies, postage increases and part-time clerical support. She stated the total requested this year is $75,000; and last year $110,000 was allotted for the arts. She stated she was delighted to see that Mr. Jenkins found them $5,000; they need an additional $70,000 to address aesthetics, community development, and how arts and culture come together to make the community better and more economically viable. She stated they want to build a community which will draw and hold good businesses and where community problems can be addressed working with other agencies.

Commissioner Carlson distributed a document she acquired at the National Association of Counties meeting concerning Americans for the Arts; stated 27 million U.S. travelers lengthen their trips because of culture; and recommended the Commissioners review the numbers which are outstanding. She stated that is why culture is getting the TDC's attention; it is a whole different category; and big corporations and corporate centers are drawn to arts and cultural amenities. She stated various groups are funded through the BCA grant process; $75,000 is allocated from the County currently; but many Commissioners have been lobbied by other groups because even though they have been given grants by BCA, the funds are not enough. She stated the groups are feeling significant pressures based on growth and interest in having high quality programming and community cultural facilities; and there is a problem with fragmentation in the community because it is underfunded when compared to other communities with which it is competing for economic development. She stated the Board needs to pay attention to this point because fragmentation is hurting the whole cultural group within the County. She stated the request is for a strategic plan to evaluate the cultural community as a whole to see where the dysfunctional issues are and bring the community together with a plan. She stated it would be a great tool to steer the County's vision; and they are in the process of working on a leadership forum. She stated if the Board is going to try to get industry, then it needs to do its homework to be competitive when it comes to the arts. She stated they get 4% of the first two cents which is approximately $125,000; and inquired what is the total budget; with Ms. Burk responding the total budget is $377,800 per year; and most of the TDC money is granted to arts in cultural groups based on their ability to serve tourists, which helps regenerate the tax. She stated the group that applies to that program is not the same as the ones that apply to the County Community Cultural Arts program; and they use the rest of the money to market the arts and cultural groups through collateral pieces with the Florida Welcome Centers and with the TDC Fulfillment Program. She noted an article in Spacecoast Press concerning brochures; and advised of the contributions of the TDC, Visit Florida, and Port Canaveral. Commissioner Carlson inquired what does the total budget work out to be per capita compared with other counties; with Ms. Burk responding 29 cents per capita; most counties in the surrounding area spend $1 per capita; and south Florida communities spend much more. Ms. Burk advised Broward County has $7 per capita and Dade County is approximately the same; when the breakdown is done of arts funding through the grants program, the larger counties take home a larger percentage of the matching fund dollars, and Brevard County falls in a round called mid-size local arts agencies, falling ninth in funding. Commissioner Carlson inquired how much Broward County is actually spending for arts or are there additional dollars flowing in; with Ms. Burk responding in Broward County, the budget for arts is above $12 million annually. Commissioner Carlson inquired if that is how much the County provides; with Ms. Burk responding affirmatively. Ms. Burk advised Broward County passed a one-cent tax on video rentals that has substantially added to the public program; the voters agreed to have 2% of their capital facility building be set for public art programming; and they have a huge building program, so the budget is almost a match for the Department of State's Division of Cultural Affairs. She stated when they do grants requests in Tallahassee, the Division of Cultural Affairs anticipates the same type of arts and cultural services from everyone, recognizing that some are smaller in population; and it is difficult to compete. She stated Brevard County ranks well in Tallahassee; its programs are respected; but it does not have the measure of support to continue to grow, especially among the arts and cultural groups. Commissioner Carlson stated the important statement is about getting all the cultural groups together to buy into a strategy that can help the community as a whole and not just their individual needs; and that is what is missing. Ms. Burk stated there are museums which need money, and they want to go outside the grant program and come to the Board individually for line item funding. She stated she understands the need for money; but there is a need to fund start-up programs and emerging programs as well as the bigger ones. She commented on music programs that serve broad segments of the population. Commissioner Carlson stated studies show that one of the top reasons businesses and people locate to an area is cultural amenities; the cities of Austin, San Jose, Chattanooga, Charlotte, and Richmond have all made strong commitments to the arts, and that is how they are attracting the corporate groups. She noted it is possible to get money from banks that join the art communities which would take the burden off the government sector. She stated the desire is for the community to support the arts. Ms. Burk stated BCA has never come to County government for funding for a whole program; and businesses and individual volunteers contribute thousands of hours to making the organizations work. She stated they match funds with government, but need strengthening on the government side of programming; and although they have grown tremendously over the last five years, there has been no increase in arts funding in that period.

Commissioner Voltz inquired when was the last time there was an increase in funding for BCA; with Ms. Burk responding the last time they had an increase was in 1992; there were some decreases after that, and they have been level since 1995. Ms. Burk noted in 1990 the grants program was cut from $125,000 to $100,000; in 1992 it was cut to $75,000; and it has been at $75,000 ever since. Chairman Higgs inquired if it went up last year; with Ms. Burk responding the Board agreed to fund part of Art in Public Places. Chairman Higgs stated it is still a General Fund transfer into the arts, but not into the cultural grants. Commissioner Voltz stated four years ago she saw no value in the arts; but in the past four years she has been involved in economic development. She stated the elected officials in Richmond told her that the arts and cultural programs bring people to Richmond; but she does not believe government should be funding the arts; and the ultimate goal is for the community to do it. She stated if it is necessary to give BCA a boost, she would favor that because she does see a benefit to the community including the kids' programs. Commissioner Carlson stated there could be another dialogue about kids at risk and how arts affect them. Ms. Burk stated every student they can reach and hold in a positive after-school or weekend arts program is one who may not be at the Juvenile Assessment Center; and if they continue to work on the prevention end, the jail population may come down. Commissioner Voltz stated it has taken her a few years to see the value, but it is a good program.

Commissioner Scarborough stated the County spends a lot on recreational programs for young people, and while some people may be able to throw a ball well, there are others who have other talents; and commented on the funding level for arts from the private sector in Indian River County. He stated that is something Brevard County has yet to bring together; and advised of the need for a dedicated revenue source. Commissioner Carlson stated that is what the Strategic Plan will assist the Board with; the person they are looking at is the one who sculpted the Broward County plan; and Broward County is funding at $12 million. Commissioner Scarborough advised of the relationship of Volusia County with the London Symphony; stated while Brevard County has things, it does not have things that really flash out; and the County needs to make something happen.

Commissioner Carlson commented on the value of the Strategic Plan, NACO workshop on cultural issues, and investment of the private sector.

Chairman Higgs inquired about the TDC dollars for cultural programming; with Ms. Burk responding it is a minimum of $25,000. Ms. Burk stated in the past year they granted $54,000 to the arts and cultural groups; and advised of activities of the groups. Chairman Higgs stated there are some difficulties with the General Fund; and inquired if they can look to the TDC for additional funding for development. Commissioner Carlson stated BCA put in for the reserves of approximately $9,600; but a reasonable economic impact study would be approximately $25,000; and they are trying to scrape together that amount of money. Chairman Higgs noted the TDC has a $7 million budget; with Commissioner Carlson advising only a small piece of that is for cultural arts. Ms. Burk stated the TDC cultural events budget is 5% of the first two cents of the TDC tax; when the tax was increased, no additional money was set aside for arts and cultural programs; and advised of competition with the Zoo and the Stadium. Commissioner Voltz inquired about the referendum and TDC Ordinance. Commissioner Scarborough inquired if the Board has discretion; with Mr. Jenkins advising with a four-fifths vote. Chairman Higgs stated the Board may be able to revisit that. Commissioner Carlson stated the Board will have an opportunity to do that when the zoo dollars are up; and there are some other things the Board can look at in terms of what is for the better good. Mr. Jenkins advised the zoo dollars will automatically convert to marketing and advertising unless the Board does something. Chairman Higgs requested Mr. Jenkins provide a discussion on those issues; and stated the arts are a critical part of building a strong community, and the Board should look at the situation.

Discussion ensued on other avenues of support, commitment to a plan, private funding, government paperwork to keep revenue streams going, and tourist development.

Commissioner O'Brien stated BCA says it is not funded enough; the Board has heard the same comment from other agencies and departments; District 2 Parks and Recreation is $11 million short; the counties that have higher funding levels have higher taxes; and commented on spiraling taxes. He stated the BCA budget has increased 68% in four years from $75,000 to $110,000; and this year BCA is asking for $115,000. He stated the Board provided $12,500 to put arts in the hallways of the government buildings, and also provides office space and telephones; with Ms. Burk advising it is BCA's telephone system. Commissioner O'Brien stated the money the Board gives BCA is a giveaway; it has increased substantially; and he cannot support it. He stated he has difficulty supporting anything further than the $110,000 last year; and advised of lack of citizen support for arts funding.

Chairman Higgs stated the Board needs to recognize that every dollar the County puts into BCA's grant program goes to a group that is bringing forth additional money and effort so the Board sees multiples of its dollars and accountability particularly in delivery of services; it is the leveraging of dollars that is important; and the more the Board can use private groups such as BCA to handle the grants and leveraging of dollars, the more it is going to get from the tax dollars. Commissioner O'Brien stated the taxpayer of Brevard County does not want to have the taxes increased just so they can leverage for the arts; and if the Board keeps increasing the budgets, it is going to require raising taxes. Commissioner Voltz stated it is a question of prioritization; with Commissioner O'Brien advising there are other priorities. Commissioner Carlson stated the Board can help augment the cost of some of the other priorities by bringing in the economic development.

Ms. Burk stated the more businesses they bring in, the more the tax base will rise; those businesses often bring charitable dollars with them that can be used to leverage and invest in the community; so it is really a community reinvestment program they are asking for. She noted the groups go through a stringent review process for grants so they have to be accountable and demonstrate quality and service; and it is a reimbursable program.

Commissioner O'Brien stated that is commendable; the EDC has memberships that generate close to one half million dollars; and inquired if BCA could do that; with Ms. Burk responding BCA does have memberships. Commissioner O'Brien stated if the arts attract economic development, then those people should be coming to the table with funding. Commissioner Carlson stated if there is commitment to get a plan done, that will build additional credibility for the arts community that will bring in those who are looking to relocate or develop. Commissioner O'Brien stated those people who are interested such as the bankers and business people, and Chambers of Commerce should be the first people up to the table with funding for a study. Ms. Burk requested Commissioner O'Brien help to advocate that to the business community.

Chairman Higgs stated the Board is going to get a report on the potential for TDC dollars, and will look at the issue again.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: MELBOURNE-TILLMAN WATER CONTROL DISTRICT

Budget Manager Dennis Rogero stated the FY 2000-2001 budget for the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District decreased 25.80% from the amended FY 1999-2000 budget of $2,219,732 for a total of $1,646,984. He advised the reduction was the result of completion of projects under the District's capital improvements program.

Al Pennell, Executive Director of the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District, stated for the second year in a row, the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District Board has approved a budget with zero increase in user fees.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired how much millage would this reduce taxes for the typical homeowner of a $100,000 house. Mr. Pennell stated the user fees are not interactive with the millage rate, and are independent and separate from it. Commissioner O'Brien stated the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District has reduced its budget by $528,000; and the people paying the flat rate should have a corresponding reduction. Chairman Higgs noted the reduction in capital outlay costs. Mr. Pennell stated if user fees were reduced, there would have to be a corresponding reduction in capital or operational expenses; and what they are trying to do is operate without increasing user fees by running the operation more efficiently. He advised of rising costs for fuel and aquatic supplies; and commented on mowing operations. He stated next to trash in the canal and motor vehicles on the rights-of-way, the single largest complaint is that they do not mow the rights-of-way as frequently as people mow their back yards; as the community develops and more of the undeveloped area becomes residential, the demand for mowing will increase; and if they can stay at zero increase, they will be doing well. He stated if he has a request for an increase, he wants to be able to document what it is for and why; and that is the proper way of doing it.

Discussion ensued on the increased fuel costs, deferring discussion to the meeting with the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District; and reducing the flat rate.

Mr. Jenkins stated the revenues and rates are down the same amount. Mr. Pennell advised the meeting will be August 10, 2000 at 5:30 p.m. in the City of West Melbourne City Hall.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: MERRITT ISLAND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

Management Services Director Stockton Whitten stated the Merritt Island Redevelopment budget for FY 2000-2001 decreased by 10.72% due to a reduction in the amount of funds committed to the Agency's capital improvement program; and there are no program changes.

Commissioner Carlson inquired if there is a typographical error under personnel as no personnel is showing in the recommended budget, but there is compensation and benefits; with Mr. Rogero advising that is a typographical error.

Chairman Higgs inquired if the increase in tax revenue is the result of growth and the difference between what started as the base and what it is today; with Doug Robertson, Consultant to the Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency, responding affirmatively. Chairman Higgs stated there is no tax increase in terms of millage rate increase; with Mr. Robertson advising the number does not represent any additional millage increase or tax increase to the property owners; the property values are going up; the revenue source is the difference between what one tax base was and what the current year is; and there has been a fairly substantial increase in the last couple of years.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired what Walgreens at the corner of SR 520 and Sykes Creek Parkway paid per square foot; with Mr. Robertson responding he does not know but it set a new curve for property value.

Chairman Higgs inquired when does the redevelopment project stop. Mr. Robertson responded they are in their final project for the area, which is Merritt Park Place sewer and stormwater drainage installation project; they would like to see it become the town center for Merritt Island; and three to four years ago, they entered into an agreement that ten years would be a good time to sunset the Agency. Chairman Higgs inquired if commitments have been made that would extend beyond that agreement; with Mr. Robertson responding no, and if anything were to come that would seem to warrant that, they would revisit the Board. County Manager Tom Jenkins inquired how long is the Agency's debt service; with Mr. Robertson responding they have six more years.

Commissioner O'Brien stated Mr. Robertson is not an executive director; and the only full-time employee is the secretary. He stated they tried for years to get the Merritt Park Place project going; Lobbyist Guy Spearman was able to bring home $250,000 for the sewer lines; and the gas company provided gas lamps to put down the street. He stated this is the revitalization of one of the oldest areas of Merritt Island; it is termed commercial; and advised of the occupants of the area.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: TITUSVILLE-COCOA AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Budget Manager Dennis Rogero stated the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority FY 2000-2001 recommended budget is $5,109,217 decreased 12.62% from the current fiscal year; the reduction is due to decrease in capital improvement program projects; and there are no program changes.

Commissioner Carlson stated there is a 22.11% increase in compensation and benefits, and it shows a dollar increase, but there is no personnel increase.

Bill Hutto, Executive Director of the Tico Airport, stated that is a mistake; there are two additional full-time employees; last fiscal year there was a part-time position that was funded which they plan to convert to full-time; they did some outside servicing for the second position for marketing and business development; and this year they are making that a full-time position with money transferred within the budget. He stated if the Board will look at the marketing line item, there is a major reduction which corresponds to the increase in the salary position. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised two part-time positions are becoming full-time; with Mr. Hutto clarifying there was one part-time position and one consultant for business development. Mr. Jenkins advised there would be one and one-half new positions.

Commissioner O'Brien inquired what is the largest airplane that has landed at Tico in the past year with the new runway; with Mr. Hutto responding a SwissAir MD11 jumbo jet which holds 300 passengers. Commissioner O'Brien inquired if Mag Lev is also at the airport; with Mr. Hutto responding affirmatively. Commissioner O'Brien stated he is concerned because he heard last night that the Port/Airport Mag Lev was in danger of becoming a no go because today was the last day to put up the initial plan, and it was not ready. Mr. Hutto advised there are several projects; the one Commissioner O'Brien is talking about is the beeline monorail group which was headed by Gene Garfield; and advised of the groups inability to get the needed funding to move forward with the project. He advised the Mag Lev 2000 which is at the airport submitted their proposal last week to the Federal Railroad Administration; seven sites were funded last year; and it will be narrowed down to two or three sites, and then eventually to one. Commissioner Carlson inquired what are the chances; with Mr. Hutto responding one out of seven. Mr. Hutto stated he hopes they are successful; this is a high profile area; the airport is good and growing; and the improvements being done by Port Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center speak for themselves, so he thinks it stands a good chance. Commissioner Carlson inquired if that means Mag Lev has made inroads on some of the scientific problems; with Mr. Hutto responding affirmatively. Mr. Hutto stated the current schedule is to demonstrate the project by the end of the year; and they have made inroads with other areas that use the technology.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he saw the plans again that take the rail from Tico to the Visitors Center and then across North Merritt Island; the residents of North Merritt Island strongly object as they have for over 15 years; and he tends to agree with them. He stated the residents have always said if the rail goes up the middle of SR 528 from the Port, they have no problem with it; and KSC has already said they are not going to allow the rail to go to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and then go to the Port. Mr. Hutto stated it is a concern that they are going to have to work through; and they do not have a desire to go through the North Merritt Island controversy.

Chairman Higgs stated the budget shows an increase in ad valorem taxes; with Mr. Hutto responding it should not because they are asking for rollback. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised there is new construction. Chairman Higgs stated it shows an amended budget going up approximately $14,000 in revenue; and she thought the Board talked about Tico coming off the tax roll. Mr. Hutto stated they planned to keep it at a net zero increase; but they do want to come off the tax rolls; and the $160,000 they budgeted is helpful in their business development activities. He stated they are working with two clients now, Helicopter Ventures and Professional Aircraft Accessories; both companies employ over 50 people with plans to grow; and he is hoping to keep them in Titusville.

Discussion ensued on the budgeted amount, plan to get off tax roll, working a deal for the Sheriff, other entities which came off the tax roll, things that remain to be done at the airport, District 5 FDOT, and competition with other airports.

Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board can help the Tico and Melbourne Airports by moving District 5 FDOT to a posture where it will accept the economic projects; the Board will be meeting with FDOT at the next MPO meeting; and if the Board reduces the budget by $14,000, that is less than one penny per person in the Tico District. He stated there are things that can be done that are substantial and can create valuable resources if FDOT's policies are changed; and recommended looking beyond the budget to the concept of making this work for the County.

Chairman Higgs stated she is not asking for anything other than what was pledged; the Board spent hours in workshops on the Tico Airport; it needs to keep with a semblance of the plan; and even going to rollback is not consistent with the plan that everyone agreed to.

Commissioner Scarborough commented on potential for economic dynamics at the airport, providing seed money, and continuing commitment to make things work. Mr. Hutto advised there is one airport doing a corporate aviation terminal; Tico needs to serve the corporate customers who are coming in; $6.8 million from the State is paying for 80% of it; but, Tico is having trouble getting the State to consider paying 50% of the $200,000 to put in water and sewer. He reiterated the $160,000 would be very helpful; and they want to come off the tax rolls, but want to be able to do it so they can support and maintain the system. He stated in FY 1993 the operating expenses for the airport were $1.53 million; next year they are proposed to be $1.2 million; the Authority appointed by the Board is doing an excellent job in directing them to operate in a businesslike manner; and they appreciate the continued support of the Board.

Chairman Higgs stated she sees ad valorem taxes continuing to grow when the goal was to come off the tax rolls. Commissioner Scarborough stated if they went to 1.74 mills, that is at rollback; and he is not going to argue over $14,000; and for the taxpayer to assume that the Board is offering a great deal of relief in spreading $14,000 amount three-fifths of the County is not dealing honestly. Chairman Higgs inquired if rollback is at 1.74 mills; with Mr. Hutto responding yes. Commissioner Scarborough stated there is the potential for creating a lot of jobs; and it is a matter of making this go so the whole area can take off; and commented on the potential impact to the County's Industrial Park. Chairman Higgs stated the goal and commitment were made; and if that goal and commitment are being changed, the Board should admit it is no longer trying to get Tico off the tax roll.

Discussion ensued on plan to get Tico off the tax roll, making Tico an economically viable entity, looking at the methodology of District 4 funding for airports, Tico as an anomaly in the State, and goal set in 1994 to come off the tax roll in a certain number of years.

Mr. Hutto stated in FY 1995 Tico was put back on the tax rolls; the plan is still to come off the tax rolls, but they have not identified a year when that will happen; and commented on the need for money. He stated they have 100% funding for Shepard Drive; they are trying to give things back to the community; they pledge to make good use of the money; and the Tico Airport Authority Board members are directing them and making them conscious of their decisions.

Chairman Higgs stated she is not questioning that Tico is doing a good job; but she thought there was a certain plan; this is not going according to the plan; and she wants to revisit what was planned when Tico went back on the tax rolls.

Commissioner Carlson stated it would be nice to get a little more detail as far as the growth that has occurred and some of the things that have been done; Tico should stay on the tax roll until it becomes self sufficient; and it would be nice to get augmented data on what has actually been put into the community. Commissioner Voltz stated to cut their legs off too soon would cripple the whole project. Commissioner Carlson stated she also understands Commissioner Higgs' perspective because if there is a plan, it should either be followed or updated if the philosophy has changed. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board could systematically reduce the budget by $20,000 a year and do away with it; but at this time, Tico needs a lot of money to do some critical things such as roads and sewers; and without those things, the project will not work. He stated at best, Tico is underfunded; there are some things that can be discussed with the FDOT District to see if the policy can be changed; but the question is whether Tico should come off the tax roll and become a marginal entity that never does anything or should it, because of its proximity to what is happening with SERPL and other things at the Space Center, be allowed to capture the dynamics that can occur at the airport.

Chairman Higgs reiterated there was a plan; the Board is not going that way; and she wants to know what is the new plan. Commissioner Voltz stated the plan continues to be for Tico to come off the tax roll; and requested Mr. Jenkins get the Board information on that. Commissioner Scarborough stated he does not mind redefining the plan.

BUDGET PRESENTATION, RE: COUNTY DEPARTMENTS

Chairman Higgs stated there are 17 more departments to discuss; the Board also needs to discuss the direction for Tuesday because it will set a millage from which it can only go down; and she would be uncomfortable if the Board did not have concepts in mind. County Manager Tom Jenkins advised that is a tentative millage; and the Board is not binding itself. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board can roll down, but not up. Chairman Higgs inquired the Board has until what date; with Commissioner Voltz responding August 1, 2000. Mr. Jenkins advised staff needs several days; it is not a matter of just filling out one paper; it is a complicated process; and the Board would not want staff to make a mistake, so they need a few days to insure it is done correctly. He inquired if the Board wishes to do the Law Enforcement MSTU at the option, the full rate, or the original preliminary; with Chairman Higgs responding the option staff provided gives a funded MSTU; the Board needs to look at that long-term, but not necessarily in this budget; and the staff proposal moves it along in that direction.

Commissioner O'Brien stated he cannot find a good reason to increase the millage in the Law Enforcement MSTU; and there are still numbers that can be moved around to get to that goal; with Commissioner Voltz agreeing.

Chairman Higgs stated the MSTU is defined in terms of what it does; the Sheriff had $6 million in requests of which the MSTU was less than $1 million; so when Commissioner O'Brien says there is room to move things around, there is still a sizable request by the Sheriff which is unfunded. Commissioner O'Brien stated the Board requested the Sheriff take his budget, look it over, massage it, and do what he has to do, because if it stays in the position it is now, the Board will cut funding. He commented on whether it is appropriate to have four helicopters; with Chairman Higgs noting that is not in the MSTU. Mr. Jenkins stated that is part of the General Fund; and the Board is not adopting a General Fund millage, but setting a general millage, which can be reduced. Commissioner O'Brien advised he is standing firm that he will not start out with anything that is higher than it was last year; and the economic increase to the County more than offsets any need for additional funding by the Sheriff or anyone else. Commissioner Scarborough advised the Sheriff has recourse. Mr. Jenkins stated the Sheriff has the ability to go to the State cabinet to appeal; and explained the process. Commissioner Scarborough advised if the Sheriff prevailed, it could result in the Board having to make drastic cuts in important programs; and there is risk in going that route. Commissioner Voltz stated the case in another county took over a year to go through the process so the Board would not even be looking at it this year. Commissioner Scarborough inquired if Commissioner Voltz does not think there is risk; with Commissioner Voltz responding she does not. Commissioner O'Brien stated if the Cabinet offered the Sheriff relief, it would have 67 Sheriff's appealing each year. Chairman Higgs stated the question is what is the right thing to do for the MSTU, and she believes it is funding the full 129 deputies; she is comfortable with the numbers; and the Board can continue to look at the rest of the $5 million increase. Mr. Jenkins stated a 1.7% decrease would be advertised in the General Fund millage under that scenario; there would be an increase in the Law Enforcement MSTU from .8815 mill to .9805 mill; and the aggregate would be the same as it was based on the preliminary budget, with a slight reduction from the current millage.

Discussion ensued on increase in vehicle maintenance figures, $800,000 which never existed before, manipulating money to force the Board to raise the MSTU, and increases for civilian employees.

Commissioner O'Brien recommended finding out about the Sheriff's civilian employee pay scale; with Mr. Jenkins responding that is a General fund issue; and the raise that is being requested for the MSTU is 8%.

Chairman Higgs suggested coming on Tuesday with millage options including the initial staff recommendation so the Board can look at the numbers and be ready to go; and stated the Board needs to set the tentative millage on Tuesday.

Commissioner Scarborough stated things have come together very fast this year; there are still a lot of questions; and normally the Board has a chance to discuss the responses. Chairman Higgs noted the Board skipped a workshop. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board is in a posture of just getting answers back; and if the millages are set on Tuesday, they should be set high so there is some flexibility. Commissioner O'Brien stated he is not going to do that.

Discussion ensued on date to set the tentative millage.

Chairman Higgs stated the Board will try to set the tentative millage on July 25, 2000 but if not, it will do it on August 1, 2000. Commissioner Scarborough stated he would like for the Board to sit in this type of forum again because there are still some issues to be discussed; and he does not want something to go drastically wrong with the County because the Board set the millage too low. He stated people do not like to pay taxes, but they do not like the County falling apart either; and it is necessary to have funds to make things work. Chairman Higgs stated given the scenario that staff sent with the millage which still involves a one-half percent decrease, the County is not going to fall apart. Commissioner O'Brien stated the Sheriff is asking for $5 million; if it was cut to $3 million, and the Sheriff went to the Governor and prevailed, the County could borrow $2 million for one year, and next year put it in the millage to pay it off.

Chairman Higgs inquired how the Board wants to proceed with the department budgets it has not discussed. Commissioner Scarborough inquired if there is any dispute on any of the budget.

Commissioner Voltz stated on Economic Development and Legislative Affairs, she is not sure it worked out this year; the Board spent a lot of money; but she did not see any benefit. She stated she got one memo at the end of the Legislative Session advising what happened in Tallahassee; she never got a phone call or email or anything to say how things were progressing; and it was a total waste of money; with Commissioner Carlson agreeing. Mr. Jenkins stated the individual is a staff coordinator who interfaces with the lobbyist; there is a lot of transmission of information to the lobbyist; someone has to do that; and Sharon Luba used to do it. Commissioner Voltz stated when Ms. Luba did it, the Commissioners were informed as to what was going on; but they did not get that this year even though they hired an extra person to help Mr. Lugar. She stated the whole department is a waste of money; there is no reason Lynda Weatherman cannot do these things; and there is no reason to have the department. Mr. Jenkins stated someone has to be a liaison with the lobbyist. Commissioner Voltz stated her point is they are not getting any feedback. Mr. Jenkins stated they can increase the level of feedback, but there is a lot of paperwork that goes on that someone has to do in terms of tracking, providing information to the lobbyist, following through and things like that. Commissioner Voltz suggested the Board look at why it needs to have the department; the Board pays Economic Development and Lynda Weatherman; and inquired what does the department do that Ms. Weatherman's group could not do. Mr. Jenkins stated Mr. Lugar puts the abatements on the agenda and monitors them for compliance in addition to the intergovernmental affairs and working with the lobbyist. Commissioner Voltz stated there is no reason someone else could not do those things; and this is someplace the Board needs to review because she does not see it as an efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

PUBLIC COMMENT, RE: FUNDING FOR SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Commissioner Scarborough stated Mr. Steckler has been sitting in the audience all day; and requested he be recognized.

Joe Steckler, Executive Director of the Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation, stated he is present to discuss a problem in funding social service organizations for the County; and commented on the lack of County services for the elderly, provision of services by 38 non-profit organizations, and the work of the CBO and CDBG. He stated the majority of the agencies funded were for children, drug abuse, substance abuse, and person abuse; the same agencies are recommended for funding every year; those agencies that receive funding from CDBG also receive the lion's share of the CBO funding; and as a result about six or seven agencies get 56% of the available funding. He noted the Alzheimer's Foundation received the fourth largest award of $39,500; they made a special request for the Americorp Program; they have to raise $71,000 in cash; the State pulled out of the program this year; so for the first time, he asked the County to help fund one piece of the program at $30,000 of the $71,000 which would bring in $261,000. He advised of his appeal to the Advisory Board; and stated the CDBG was intended to stimulate new programs and bring in new dollars, but there is duplication of services. He commented on Dr. Hernandez's speech concerning making an elder-ready community by putting in crosswalks, signs and sidewalks, and making large print on menus so people can read them; but noted by the time people get to be 80 and older, they are not going to be using sidewalks or be in restaurants. He stated they are going to be afraid to go out and will need the type of home health service that is being issued in decreasing amounts; Medicare and Medicaid do not pay for a lot of this, and there are tremendous problems in processing; and advised Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Brevard County turned $700,000 in Medicaid waiver dollars beck to the State because they could not get them processed through the Department of Children and Families. He advised he has been invited to speak to Governor Bush on this issue. He requested the Board look at its budget of $600 million and see how much is allocated for personal services for people who need help. He stated Brevard County is an elderly county; it is twelfth oldest in Florida in terms of people over the age of 65 and 26th nationally; and the Board needs to make some hard decisions. He stated Dr. Hernandez passed out a package citing reasons to support the elderly; and advised there was a survey of almost 30 pages, but there was not one question about what the elderly need in terms of home health services, bed changing, diaper changing, shots, day care, and respite care. He stated Dr. Hernandez said there is the largest budget in the history of Florida for the Department of Elder Affairs at $49 million, but there was not one cent of increase voted for Alzheimer's disease; there was no increase in project relief to go into homes to help people, and zero money allocated for fixed capital outlay; and they did not get the rest of the money to build the project in Micco. He summarized their need for an elder ready program that solves the peripheral problems, provides flexibility to direct the use of funding, and streamlines the process. He requested the Board, before it settles the budget issue, take a hard look at what it is doing with some of the dollars because there are a lot of programs that need help. He advised of fundraising efforts of some organizations; and stated there are a lot of people who are not afraid to go out and try to raise money to help supplement what they should get from government sources.

Commissioner Voltz stated the Board needs to look at the CDBG and CBO boards; one time the Board voted to combine them, and they strenuously objected; but the Board needs to be in charge and combine the groups so there is no duplicate funding of programs.

Chairman Higgs inquired if the Board wants to combine the two groups. Commissioner Carlson stated it needs to come back to the Board. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board does not want to do it unilaterally, because that is what it did last time, and it bounced back. Chairman Higgs stated the Board changed its mind. Commissioner Scarborough stated the groups were very upset about the whole thing. Commissioner Voltz stated that is because the groups feel that they are in charge of everything. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board asked these groups to do the job so the Board would not have to have the hearings; rather than consulting with the groups, the Board said they were going to be combined; and that is not the way to do something that is going to affect someone. Commissioner Voltz stated she is not sure that is where the Board should head because the Board will end up doing nothing. Commissioner Scarborough stated the groups recognize the need for better coordination; with Commissioner Voltz disagreeing.

Commissioner O'Brien stated different groups will stand up as advocates for children, teenagers, abused women, etc.; and the real problem is when the Board gives money to non-profit organizations, the taxpayer is forced to give money to an organization they would not otherwise give money to. He stated the amount of funding has increased dramatically in the last two years; the Board has taken a strong advocacy for the elderly; it funded a Commission on Aging; but the answers will not come back to the Board until next year. He stated the elderly are a large part of the population; however the average age in Brevard County is 34; and the Board will look at solutions for the elderly when the study comes back and it sees what the needs are.

Commissioner Voltz stated she has never gotten a complaint about the money spent for CBO; and the Board can pay now or pay later.

Chairman Higgs stated there is a need to set priorities, leveraging guidelines, and guidelines for ongoing funding.

Commissioner Voltz stated that is what the comprehensive strategy is going to tell the Board; when the report comes back in August, it will show the Board where it needs to focus its money; and that is what they have been working on for a year.

Commissioner Carlson stated it is a good idea to look at that, but the Board should address the combination of the CDBG and the CBO boards and bring the issue back with a staff analysis on whether it is a good idea or not. She stated the process is duplicative; and she would like to look at the plan and bring the issues back as an agenda item.

Motion by Commissioner Carlson, seconded by Commissioner Voltz, to direct the County Manager to report to the Board on the comprehensive strategy for CBO and CDBG with discussion on possible coordination of the two organizations to eliminate duplicative processes.

Commissioner O'Brien stated last time the Board tried to combine the CDBG and CBO, it was an event, and he would not want to go through that again. Commissioner Scarborough stated the Board should be careful how it proceeds.

Discussion ensued on getting the report, duplication of funding, developing policy that the CBO cannot fund any organization funded by the CDBG, recognizing priorities, meshing of programs to solve problems, focusing funding, not enough money to fund everything, coordinated use of the limited resources, and leveraging dollars.

Commissioner Scarborough inquired when the issue comes back on the agenda, would it be to combine or coordinate; with Commissioner Voltz responding the Board does not know yet.

Chairman Higgs stated the motion is simply to bring back the comprehensive strategy which is used to coordinate those efforts. Commissioner Scarborough stated he agrees with coordination, but combination is like oil and water for those bodies.

Discussion resumed on coordination versus combination.

Chairman Higgs called for a vote on the motion. Motion carried and ordered. Commissioners Higgs, Carlson, and Voltz voted aye; Commissioners Scarborough and O'Brien voted nay.

Upon motion and vote, the meeting was adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

ATTEST:

NANCY N. HIGGS, CHAIRMAN
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA

SANDY CRAWFORD, CLERK
( S E A L )