REGULAR MEETING
LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
December 5, 2000
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on December 5, 2000 at 9:00 a.m. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners’ meeting room, with the following Commissioners present:
Chairman Sammy Yearty
Vice Chairman Don Foley
Comm. Danny Stevens
Comm. Tony Parker
Comm. Lilly Rooks
Also present were:
County Attorney - Gregory V. Beauchamp
Clerk of Court - Douglas M. McKoy
County Administrator - William C. Cobb
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.. The invocation was given by Comm. Foley followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
EXPENDITURES
Comm. Parker moved to approve the following expenditures presented for payment. Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
FUND AMOUNT
CHECK NUMBERS: 27707 - 27889
GENERAL FUND $946,174.35
ROAD & BRIDGE FUND 35,801.58
LIBRARY 7,016.32
MEDIATION 100.00
COURT SERVICES 557.95
911 5,938.33
LANDFILL & RECYCLING 2,336.81
FLORIDA POWER GRANT FUND 802.85
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE 23,705.69
FIRE CONTROL 4,613.50
DRUG TASK FORCE 156.25
COMMUNICATIONS 2,503.34
ST GRANT - JUVENILE JUSTICE 128.74
UTILITIES FUND 1,024.50
MSTU-RAINBOW LAKES ESTATES 3,339.05
TOTAL $1,030,860.21
MINUTES
Comm. Rooks moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of November 21, 2000. Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
COMMISSIONERS
Comm. Parker said there was a situation that may have violated the sunshine law and the incident was reported to the State Attorney. Comm. Parker said he did not an intend to violate the law nor would he knowingly place himself in the position of the appearance of violating the law and he believes all county business should be done at county meetings. Mr. Greg Beauchamp said they were apparently minor technical violations and by self-reporting the matter would not go any further. Mr. Beauchamp said there was another instance when Comm. Rooks spoke with Comm. Parker and Comm. Stevens prior to their being sworn in and this was reported to the State Attorney and there was no intent to violate the sunshine law and even though technically it was a violation. Comm. Foley explained he had a meeting with some citizens and had invited Comm. Parker, who had not be sworn in, to attend concerning a road paving issue. Mrs. Sharon Carter said she had attended the meeting and concurred with Comm. Foley’s explanation.
Mr. Wayne Janney said he appreciated the openness and recommended all business be conducted in open meetings to allow all citizens to have knowledge of the issues.
LIBRARY
Mr. Janney said he was aware that the county was advertising for a new Library Director and was a county vehicle necessary for this position. Chairman Yearty explained the Library Director participates as a courier of the library system by delivering books, materials, and equipment to the five (5) sites. Chairman Yearty said the Ford Explorer purchased for the Library Director was obtained for approximately $21,000.00. Mr. Janney inquired into how the vehicle purchased for Mr. Fred Rummage was currently being utilized. Chairman Yearty said it is used as needed by Mr. Cobb to inspect property and will be placed in full use in the future.
UTILITIES
Mr. Janney said he has reviewed a break down of the expenses for the University Oaks water system and has questions on some of the expenditures. Chairman Yearty recommended Mr. Janney meet with Mr. Billy Cobb, Mr. Greg Beauchamp and a commissioner to review the expenditures.
MUNICIPALITIES
Mr. Earl Cannon said the City of Chiefland has applied for a grant through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Florida Recreational Development Assistance Program to construct two (2) new ball fields and install lights on two (2) existing fields at the Charles Strickland Recreational Park and were also submitting a grant application for an emergency services complex. Mr. Cannon said the grant application for the recreation park includes anticipated costs of $133,334.00 requiring a match commitment of 25% or $33,334.00. Mr. Cannon said there are 595 youths living outside the city who participate in the organized activities and 103 youths residing within the city limits and the city is requesting the County Commission to provide 67% of the match funds or $22,334.00 and to participate annually with maintenance funding of $20,000.00. Mr. Cannon said the City of Chiefland has budgeted over $100,000.00 for the last two (2) years for recreational facilities predominately used by Levy County residents.
Mr. Cannon said the city appreciates the support provided by the county in the past but a higher priority is needed for funding youth recreational facilities. Mr. Cannon said some county equipment and employees would be needed for the work at the park and would not exceed two (2) weeks. Mr. Cannon explained the two (2) grant applications require a letter of support for the projects from the county.
Mr. Cannon said the city is looking at land located in the downtown area of Chiefland for placement of the emergency services complex including an ambulance service facility which would allow for expansion and protect the integrity of the downtown area. Chairman Yearty requested Comm. Foley to review funding for recreation and compare all of the facilities provided throughout the county. Comm. Foley moved to approve letters of support for the grant applications for the two (2) projects of improvements at the Charles Strickland Recreational Park and for an emergency services complex. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
INSURANCE
Ms. Heather Alexander presented the renewal policy for the Cedar Key Airport at the same premium as last year with no changes in coverage. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the renewal for insurance at the Cedar Key Airport. Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
ROAD MAINTENANCE
Mr. Jack Newton said the residents of NW 52nd Court located in the subdivision known as "King B Ranchettes (Add. #1)" are requesting the paving of the road. Mr. Newton explained the residents have created a scientific community involved in astronomy and the dust from the road easily damages their instruments. Mr. Newton said there is also a resident who receives in-home kidney dialysis and needs a sterile environment.
Mr. Beauchamp explained the subdivision is set up as a MSTU and assessments are for maintenance but if an estimated cost for road paving is prepared it would be incorporated into the assessment. Chairman Yearty request Mr. Justin Watson to meet with Mr. Newton and directed Mr. Kelly Jerrels to have the road maintained.
ZONING
Mr. Rob Corbitt presented the following petition for consideration:
Petition NO. HA. VA. 00-7 --- Judy Reiderman, petitioning the Board for a Hardship Variance to allow a second dwelling in order to care for her mother and father, Marie and Robert Naderer, on a parcel of land located in CP & C Estates, Lot 5, in Section 2, Township 11S, Range 15E, in Levy County. Said parcel contains ten (10) acres more or less and is located within an Agriculture/Rural Residential "A/RR" zone.
Mr. Corbitt said the petition was in order. Chairman Yearty called for opposition and none was presented. Comm. Foley moved to approve the petition for the hardship variance. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
ROAD MAINTENANCE
Comm. Rooks explained that Mr. Mike Wicker and residents along NE 40th Street are requesting the road be removed from the paving list. Comm. Rooks said placing a road on the paving list is a difficult process and contingent on right of way being dedicated and the right of way would not be dedicated on this road. Comm. Stevens moved to delete the road from the paving list. Comm. Rooks seconded. Mr. Ron Grant called for a point of order indicating Comm. Stevens had a relative that owned land along this road and there is an appearance of a conflict of interest. Comm. Stevens advised his uncle owns 40 acres and does not reside in Levy County and is in agreement with any decision the residents in the area make. Mr. Beauchamp said this does not need a conflict of interest form filed but should be disclosed. Mr. Mike Wicker said the residents do not want intense traffic on the road from the industrial park and want to maintain the rural atmosphere. Mr. Wicker said the residents would like the road maintained and something to keep the dust level down. Chairman Yearty said this is a difficult situation to keep the dust down when the road is not paved and the MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
Mr. David Bibby said he recommended implementation of a citizens advisory board comprised of seven (7) citizens. Mr. Bibby said a citizens advisory board would be able to provide the concerns of the citizens to the commission and act as a liaison. Mr. Earl Cannon said the City of Chiefland visioning committee has been successful and deals with buildings, cosmetic and aesthetics of residential and business areas and promoting the safety and welfare of the citizens. Chairman Yearty requested the commissioners review the recommendation for discussion after the first of the year.
PROPERTY APPRAISER
Mr. Beauchamp advised the ordinance adopting the Additional Homestead Exemption for Senior Citizens was adopted by emergency powers on November 21, 2000.
TAX ROLL
Mr. Billy Cobb presented the following Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll:
Thomas L. And Danna Lynn Phillips assessed for two (2) units; one (1) unit was removed from the property on December 28, 1999.
Mr. Cobb said the property was inspected and recommended approval of the request. Comm. Stevens moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment from two (2) units to one (1) unit. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mr. Noel Desmond read the letter received from Mr. Bill Beddow dated November 16, 2000 into the record relating the details of the treatment received by his daughter, Chrystie Desmond by emergency medical personnel. Mr. Desmond then read for the record his response letter dated November 18, 2000 disputing Mr. Beddow’s letter. Mr. Desmond advised he did not think proper treatment was provided at the accident scene or proper actions by the rescue unit transporting his daughter to the emergency room. Mr. Beauchamp explained the county had investigated the allegations and their position was that proper protocol was followed by emergency rescue personnel and he had advised the commissioners not to enter into a debate on an issue that may be litigated.
Mr. Desmond said he was requesting a full investigation and Mr. Beddow’s resignation.
TAX ROLL
Mr. Cobb presented the following requests for a Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessments:
Alice A. Mason, c/o John W. And Kathleen Waddell, located at 7851 NW 48th Terrace, Chiefland, the hardship has ceased to exist and one (1) unit has been removed from the property.
Mr. Cobb said the property had been inspected and the committee has recommended approval. Comm. Stevens moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
James A. Russ, Cedar Key, assessed for two (2) units; one (1) unit removed from property March, 1999.
Mr. Cobb said an inspection of the property revealed only one (1) and the committee recommended approval. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the request for a Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessments. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Cobb said Mr. Terry D. Litzelman has made an offer to purchase a parcel land described as:
Lot 27, Block D-4, Jemlands, Parcel #01097-111-00.
Mr. Cobb said Mr. Litzelman has made a bid offer of $350.00 on the parcel escheated to the county on October 14, 1997 and the original minimum bid was $288.07. Comm. Stevens moved to accept the bid of $350.00 from Mr. Terrry D. Litzelman. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
ROAD MAINTENANCE
Mr. Justin Watson presented the following requests for maintenance on a one (1) time basis:
Green Highland Park, NE 50th Place requiring grading and one (1) load of rock; NE 134th Terrace requiring grading and five (5) loads of rock; NE 54th Street requires grading; NE 133rd Terrace requiring grading and one (1) load of rock; NE 52nd Street requiring grading; NE 52nd Place requiring grading and eight (8) loads of rock; NE 134th Avenue requiring grading; all roads have a dedicated right of way and a right of way distance of 66', with an estimated cost of $2,150.00.
Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
University Estates, NE 95th Avenue from NE 90th Street to NE 83rdLane, requiring rock and grading, estimated cost of $6,500.00.
Comm. Parker said he would like to review the request before any further action.
University Estates, NE 70th Street to NE 105th Avenue, requiring two (2) loads of rock and grading, estimated cost of $300.00.
Comm. Parker moved to approve on a one (1) time basis. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Whispering Pines Subdivision, SE 59th Place, requiring grading, for an estimated cost of $67.00.
Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
PLANNING, COUNTY
Ms. Krista Kelly presented the draft copy of the Access Management Strategy, for the US 19 Highway Corridor between Chiefland and Fanning Springs. Ms. Kelly said the draft presents techniques and strategies to be used with the Land Development Regulations including recommended standards for the transportation growth impact in the corridor. Ms. Kelly said the draft will be reviewed by the committee and the consultant will be making a final presentation.
Ms. Kelly reported the Future Transportation Map has been found in compliance by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
ROADS, COUNTY
Mr. Watson said a request has been made by Mr. Leo Flynn for a "No Thru Trucks" sign on a road in University Estates recently paved, being used by heavy trucks as a "short-cut" from US Hwy. 27A to SR 24. Comm. Parker moved to post a "No Thru Trucks" sign. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mr. Bill Beddow said the survey for the site to locate the emergency services in Williston is almost complete and the lease agreement needs to be prepared and submitted to the school board for their review and approval. Comm. Rooks moved to authorize the attorney to prepare the lease agreement and submit it to the school board for approval. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Beddow said notification of grant approval should be received shortly that will allow for the purchase of two (2) rescue units. Mr. Beddow said if the grant is not approved other arrangements will need to be made to purchase one (1) rescue unit.
Mr. Beddow said the software program for run reports is out dated and a new software program can be purchased for $20,000.00 which will allow the run reports and billing process to be more efficiently handled. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the purchase of the software program for $20,000.00. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Beddow reported the surrounding counties are charging higher fees for transportation and mileage and if a increase in fees is considered it must be approved prior to January 1, 2001 to be accepted by Medicare and Medicaid. Mr. Beddow added that notice had been received that the Advanced Life Support Units will be required to use more expensive drugs on the ambulances. Chairman Yearty requested Mr. Beddow to compile the documentation on costs and present his findings prior to the next regular meeting.
LANDFILL
Mr. Wayne Hardee said the landfill currently has three (3) trailers for hauling garbage to the New River landfill which allows for two (2) trailers to be transporting and the remaining trailer to be filled for the next trip. Mr. Hardee said an additional trailer would meet requirements imposed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and for a more efficient disposal of garbage by allowing for two (2) trailers to transport to the landfill and to have the remaining two (2) trailers filled upon return for disposal. Comm. Parker moved to advertise for an Invitation to Bid on a trailer at the landfill. Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
LIBRARY
Chairman Yearty said with the resignation of the Library Director a part time employee is needed to oversee the grant process for a grant awarded for an automation system. Chairman Yearty said the situation has been discussed with the state library system and they have advised that this is approved pending the hiring of a new Library Director. Chairman Yearty recommended hiring Mrs. Toni Collins, who is familiar with the grant process, is on the Library Advisory Board and was instrumental in assisting with the start up of the county library system. Comm. Stevens moved to approve to hire Mrs. Toni Collins for a part time position of 20 hours per week for a salary of $8.75 per hour. Comm. Parker seconded. Comm. Rooks said this would be a part time position for the duration of the grant and the board could terminate the position or reconsider the continuance of the position and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mrs. Renata Cannon asked if Mrs. Collins was employed by the county in her current part time position. Chairman Yearty said Mrs. Collins was currently employed part time for 20 hours per week with the Clerk of Court.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mrs. Cannon inquired if run reports were completed for every trip and if the reports were available to the public. Mr. Beauchamp said run reports were done on every call and the reports are only available to the patient and are not public records as they are medical records.
COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Yearty said in response to an inquiry by Mrs. Cannon that the workshops planned will be open to the public and will have two (2) to three (3) subjects to review and discuss.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Mr. Ron Grant extended an invitation to the commissioners to join the District 5 Local Emergency Planning Committee. Mr. Grant said anyone interested should contact Mrs. Paula Lane.
ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT
Comm. Foley said the Invitation to Bid for sod was advertised with an error for Freight On Board (FOB) and delivery to the Road Department and not the job site. Comm. Foley recommended advertising the Invitation to Bid to allow for pickup by the county from sod companies located within Levy County or for delivery to the job site. Comm. Foley moved to advertise for an Invitation to Bid for sod allowing the recommended options for pickup or delivery. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
LIBRARY
Mr. Beauchamp reported the review of the contract presented by Mr. Larry White for SOLNET was in order but did not recommend implementation of the contract as the libraries did not have the equipment to support the program.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Mr. Beauchamp presented an interagency/public works agreement with the Levy Forestry Camp to allow the Road and Bridge Department to utilize the Inmate Work Program. Comm. Foley moved to approve the agreement with the Levy Forest Camp, Department of Corrections. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
TAX CERTIFICATES
Mr. Beauchamp presented the List of Lands Available for Taxes from the Tax Deed Sale of November 20, 2000 submitted by Mrs. Patty L. Galyean, Deputy Clerk.
EQUIPMENT
Comm. Foley said the committee had reviewed the quotes received by the Road and Bridge Department for a used excavator and recommended advertising for bids for a new machine to take advantage of buy back options available. Comm. Foley moved to advertise an Invitation to Bid for an excavator. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ADJOURNED.
W. S. Yearty, Board Chairman
ATTEST:
Douglas M. McKoy, Clerk of Court