REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

September 18, 2001

            The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 18, 2001  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 - Danny J. Shipp

           

            The Chairman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and asked for a moment of silence in memory of the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 and  followed with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

EXPENDITURES

            Comm.  Foley moved to approve the following expenditures  presented for payment.  Comm. Parker  seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

FUND                                                                AMOUNT

CHECK NUMBERS:                              31919 - 32092

 

GENERAL FUND                                      $233,040.49

ROAD & BRIDGE FUND                            108,962.11

LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE               16,900.00

LIBRARY                                                         21,664.90

FINE & FORFEITURE FUND                         9,078.69

E911 COMMUNICATIONS                                   63.00

LANDFILL & RECYCLING                            69,999.42

COURT FACILITIES                                              19.00

FLORIDA POWER GRANT FUND                    571.23

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE           38,816.08

LOCAL LAW ENF BLOCK GRANT              1,723.06

FIRE CONTROL                                               1,250.00

DRUG TASK FORCE                                      8,583.60

ST GRANT - JUVENILE JUSTICE                      66.49

UTILITIES FUND                                              1,265.45

 

TOTAL                                                         $512,003.52

 

MINUTES

Comm. Parker moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of September 4,  2001 and the TRIM hearing of September 12, 2001. Comm. Stevens  seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

HEALTH

Mrs. Barbara Lock presented the Health Department contract for the 2001-2002 fiscal year in the amount of $97,480.00.

Mrs. Locke said Mosquito Control had extended support in controlling the mosquito problem in an effort to  prevent the spread of the West Nile virus and the Eastern Equine virus. 

Mrs. Locke explained the Tobacco Prevention Program was working to prevent teens from using tobacco products.

Comm. Parker moved to approve the contract with the Health Department for $97,480.00 based on the millage rate of .101.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

SHERIFF

Mr. Fred Moody explained Lieutenant Mike Sheffield had sent notice that a proposal had been received from W. W. Gay Fire & Integrated Systems, Inc. to correct safety violations and install additional sprinkler heads at the jail.  Mr. Moody said the proposal was for $11,750.0 and is not a part of the Sheriff’s budget.  Mr. Moody said the fire code has changed and additional sprinkler heads are required. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the acceptance of the proposal from W. W. Gay Fire & Integrated Systems, Inc. to bring the jail into compliance.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COUNTY FORESTER

Ms. Sara Kohan explained she was the County Forester and was available to offer assistance. 

AGENCIES

Mr. Fred Moody requested permission to discuss a non-agenda item concerning a budget request from Victims of Violent Crimes Support Center, Inc..  Comm. Rooks moved to discuss the non-agenda item.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Moody said Mr. Bill Hunt had made a request for $5,000.00 to assist in operating the support center for Victims of Violent Crimes Support Center, Inc..

Mr. Greg Beauchamp said support could be given to the group if it is a bona fide public service and the county would not have a liability exposure by providing funds.  Comm.  Rooks moved to approve the budget request of $5,000.00 for the 2001-2002 fiscal year and to allow the funds to be available at the beginning of the fiscal year.   Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mrs. Jacqueline Martin presented a proposal from Municipal Code Corporation for the distribution of the Code of Ordinance.   Mrs. Martin said  information was available on the Internet at www.municode.com .  Comm. Rooks moved to table any action on the proposal until the next regular meeting. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COUNTY ENGINEER

Mrs. Martin presented the renewal contract with Mills Engineering Company for consultant services. Mrs. Martin said the contract contained the same terms and conditions.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the renewal contract with Mills Engineering Company.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ATTORNEY, COUNTY AND STATE

Mrs. Martin presented the renewal contract for legal services provided by Mr. Gregory V. Beauchamp, P.A..  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the renewal contract with Mr. Beauchamp.  Comm. Foley seconded.

Comm. Parker recommended paying the employee health insurance coverage and the amount allowed for family coverage be remitted to him and allow him the option of accepting the family coverage and it being deducted from his compensation.

Mr. Beauchamp explained the family health insurance coverage was provided when the state disallowed part time county attorneys to be a part of the State Retirement System.

Mrs. Renate Cannon requested the amounts of the contract for Mr. Mills and Mr. Beauchamp.

Mrs. Martin said Mills Engineering Company contract was  based on an hourly rate for services rendered as follows:

    Principal Engineer                        $75.00

    Project Engineer                           $65.00

    Design Engineer                           $60.00

    Other Salary time rate 3.0

 

Mrs. Martin said Mr. Beauchamp’s contract is $5,425.00 on the monthly retainer and $3,863.88 is paid annually for the family health insurance coverage.  Comm.  Rooks moved to amend to approve the renewal contract for Mr. Beauchamp with the adjustment to  pay for his health insurance coverage, allowing the portion paid for family health  coverage to be included in his retainer with a 2% annual increase.    Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

RESOLUTIONS

Mrs. Martin presented a resolution  the National Association of Counties was recommending for adoption addressing the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center in New York City  and the Pentagon outside Washington, D.C..[1]  Mr. Beauchamp read the resolution for the record.  Comm. Foley moved to adopt the resolution.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

LIBRARY

Mrs. Martin presented Mr. Robert B. Crane’s letter of resignation from the Library Advisory Board.

LEGISLATIVE

Mrs. Martin announced Senator Richard Mitchell, Senator Rod Smith and Representative Will Kendrick will hold the Legislative Delegation meeting on Tuesday, September 25, 2001 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..

WATER CONTROL AND WATER BOARDS

Mrs. Martin said the Suwannee River Water Management District will hold the 26th Annual Conference on Water Management  October 3-5, 2001 in Gainesville.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

Mr. Bill Beddow reported Mills Engineering is preparing the work plans for water and sewer service for the new Williston Fire/Rescue Station.

Mr. Beddow said the City of Chiefland has purchased the property for the relocation of the municipal services and discussions are proceeding for the relocation and renovations of the Chiefland Fire/Rescue Station.

Mr. Beddow recommended assuming responsibility for  intra-facility calls instead of Liberty Ambulance Service.

Mr. Robert Assaf, CEO of Liberty Ambulance Service, said they were providing a needed service and requested the renewal of the Certificate of Need (CON).  Mr. Assaf said  Williston hospital had discontinued their contract to pay for the transport of indigent patients and they needed a stipend to do this type of transportation.

Mr. Steve Simmons said the 911 system has had to transport non emergency patients due to Liberty Ambulance refusal to transport indigent patients and this could create a severe problem if an emergency call arose. 

Comm. Rooks said by not transporting indigent patients this has caused the hospital to contact 911 for transport and the county must be responsible to all citizens.

Mr. Bruce Brown said citizens do not understand if transport is refused by a private  firm.  Mr. Brown explained  the county must respond to all 911 calls.  Mr. Brown said  Dr. McCoy, the county medical director does not have any control on private transports.

Mr. Clinton Randolph of Liberty Ambulance Service said a meeting had been requested to discuss operating procedures and was not aware of a conflict until the Certificate of Need (CON) renewal was due.  Mr. Randolph explained there is a medical director located in Jacksonville available at all time for their paramedics and EMT’s to contact.

Comm. Parker said there is a concern on public safety and the responsibility the county has to the citizens for immediate medical response through the 911 system.

Ms. Marie Wells inquired if there would be a liability exposure to the county  if a private firm was sued.  Mr. Beauchamp said the county could be named as a party in that type of situation.

Mrs. Renate Cannon expressed a concern on the refusal to transport people without insurance and was impressed with the service provided by the county 911 system.  Mrs. Cannon said the county medical director should be able to direct all paramedics and EMT’s responding within the county.

Mr. Beddow advised he had contacted the Jacksonville office of Liberty Ambulance Service and one of their paramedics in Williston and advised them of the workshop that was recently held.  Mr. Beddow said the request for the Certificate of Need (CON) renewal usually is made in advance to allow guidelines to be established and it was not presented in advance this year.

Mr. Jim Timmer, Director of Liberty Ambulance said he did not have knowledge of the workshop and Liberty Ambulance Service has cooperated with police and fire calls when requested.

Comm. Stevens moved not to renew the Certificate of Need (CON) with Liberty Ambulance Service. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr.  Beddow requested authorization to add five (5) additional staff members consisting of two (2) paramedics, two (2) EMT’s and one (1) administrative staff to provide for the addition of intra facility transportation by the 911 system.  Comm. Stevens moved to approve the request to hire five (5) additional staff members. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Beddow requested authorization to proceed with adjusting the billing rates.  Chairman Yearty advised Mr. Beddow and Mr. Beauchamp to schedule public hearings to address the billing rates.

GRANTS

Mr. Beddow said there were two (2) grant applications to discuss as non-agenda items.  Comm. Parker moved to discuss the non-agenda items. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Ms. Marie Wells presented a grant application for a 90/10 EMS Rural Matching Grant program for $91,898.00 to purchase one (1) ambulance.  Comm. Parker moved to approve the grant application for the EMS Rural Matching grant. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Ms. Wells said the second grant was for $13,649.79 and would be used to purchase additional equipment. Mrs. Wells said this is a fully funded grant and does not require matching funds.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the grant application.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Chairman Yearty opened the public hearings to address Road Closings and the single family mortgage program at 10:30 a.m.

ROAD CLOSING

Mr. Beauchamp presented the resolution for the vacating, abandoning and closing of the following roads:

NW 87th Street, NW 86th Place, NW 136th Avenue, NW 86th Street, NW 84th Place, and a portion of the South end of NW 135th Avenue from NW 84th Place to the intersection of NW 85th Street.  All in Section 10, Township 12 South, Range 13 East.  Said lands situate, lying and being in Levy County, Florida.

 

Mr. Justin Watson said the utility providers had responded with no opposition to the road closings. Comm. Rooks moved to adopt the resolution for the road closings.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

RESOLUTIONS

Mr. Ralph Cellon of Morgan-Keegan advised the Bay County Housing Authority is providing bonds to finance a single family mortgage program for residents of Levy County and the TEFRA hearing is scheduled to comply with federal and state requirements. Mr. Cellon explained currently financing is available through First Florida Federal and Savings in Live Oak. Mr. Cellon said local lenders have not yet agreed to participate in the program but lender training workshops have been held.  Mr. Cellon presented a resolution and interlocal agreement with Bay County Housing Authority to provide single family mortgage assistance to qualified applicants within the federal and state provisions.  Comm. Rooks moved to adopt the resolution and interlocal agreement with Bay County Housing Authority.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

SHIP

Mrs. Carol McQueen presented a non-agenda item for discussion.  Comm. Rooks moved to discuss a non-agenda item for the SHIP program.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mrs. McQueen presented the following Deferred Payment Loan Agreement:

Joseph and Christina Bray to purchase a home located at 1.00 acre tract 142 x 307 in SE 1/4 of NE 1/4, OR Book 126, Page 333, Chiefland for $9,500.00.

 

Comm. Foley moved to approve the Deferred Payment Loan Agreement.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COMMISSIONERS

Mr. Kurt Spitzer said KSA is a consulting service to assist county governments and school boards through the redistricting process required by law to be addressed every ten (10) years. Mr. Spitzer said redistricting is based on the 2000 census and consideration is given to population, contiguity, compactness, significant natural and artificial boundaries, neighborhoods, party affiliation, preservation of existing districts and other criteria that may want to be emphasized in the redistricting process. Chairman Yearty requested Mr. Spitzer prepare a proposal for discussion at the next regular meeting.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mr. Al Carnegie said the paving of the roads in East Williston has created good will and encouraged every one to continue to work with supporting elected officials.

CLERK OF COURT/TO BOARD

Mr. Danny Shipp presented for purging an inventory list.[2]  Mr. Shipp explained an inventory has not been completed since 1994 and items had not been purged since the early 1960's.  Mr. Shipp said a purchase order policy and  bar code system is being established to account for existing and new purchases and allow for semi-annual and annual inventories.  Mr. Shipp added the purged inventory list must be available to the auditors on October 1, 2001.  Comm. Parker moved to approve the purge inventory list.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Shipp said a review of the policy for board minutes reveals we are following the same guidelines as surrounding counties.  Mr. Shipp said a limited supply of draft copies of the minutes would be available for public review prior to the meeting.  Mr. Shipp explained the approved minutes are available at www.levyclerk.com and draft copies are available through the Board of County Commissioners office at $.15 per page.

Mr. Earl Cannon inquired if agenda packets could be made available to municipalities on request.

Mr. Leo Flynn recommended publishing the approved minutes in the local newspapers.

Chairman Yearty said there is a charge for printing in the papers and the minutes are available on the Internet.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mr. C. W. Gilbert spoke on the suit filed on special assessments to unimproved parcels and actions taken.  Mr. Gilbert questioned the hiring of a county employee, the procedures for obtaining building permits and the county attorney.

ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT

Ms. Leslie Sturmer advised the appropriate permits have been obtained to construct the Shellfish Aquaculture Research Center in Cedar Key at the fishing pier located at the old Number #4 bridge.  Ms. Sturmer said 35 pilings need to be set and requested the Road Department be authorized to install the pilings when they are received.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the Road Department to set 35 pilings for the Shellfish Aquaculture Research Center.

Ms. Sturmer said the University of Florida, IFAS is willing to assume the liability for the center and are requesting a Memorandum of Agreement or lease agreement with three (3) land owners involved.  Chairman Yearty requested Ms. Sturmer to have the agreement prepared and sent to the county attorney for review.

Mr. Moody said it will cost $5,226.04 to drive the 35 pilings at the site.

BUDGET

Mrs. Sheila Rees has requested a budget amendment of $200,000.00 from the Reserve Account to the General Fund for five (5) departments and $39,457.00 from Fine and Forfeitures transferred to Special Public Defender costs.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the budget amendments. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Ms. Paula Edwards presented the contract with Florida Power Corporation for $74,488.05.  Ms. Edwards said the contract remained on the same terms. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the contract with Florida Power Corporation.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Ms. Edwards presented the contract with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for the commodities program in the amount of $4,631.00.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the contract for the commodities program.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

FIRE DISTRICTS

Mr. Mark Moore advised the firefighters will be holding a Memorial Service on Sunday, September 23, 2001 at 4:00 p.m. for the firefighters who lost their lives in the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001.  Comm. Rooks moved to endorse the Memorial Service.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Moore said the blood drive response has exceeded all expectations and the Chiefland office is opening two (2) hours earlier.  Mr. Matt Johnson said the Chiefland office is receiving 59 units of blood per day up from the normal ten (10) units per day.

AGENCIES

Mr. Lannie Cardona presented a letter of appreciation to Dr. Allan L. Egbert of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) for the Nature-based recreation guide they assisted in drafting and producing the brochure.  Mr. Cardona said the guide has been placed in all of the Chamber of Commerce offices.  Comm. Rooks moved to authorize the Chairman to sign the letter of appreciation for the Nature-based recreation guide prepared by FWCC.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Ms. Sandy Bassett said she is attempting to obtain a building permit for ten (10) acres owned by her brother-in-law and has not been able to secure the permit.

Mr. Rob Corbitt explained there is an issue on how the parent 40 acre parcel has been subdivided.

Chairman Yearty requested Ms. Bassett schedule and appointment with Mr. Corbitt to discuss her complaint.

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS

Mr. Beauchamp said the Grubbs Emergency Service, Inc. contract would provide a safe back up in the event of a disaster.  Mr. Beauchamp explained this is no cost until  Grubbs Emergency Services, Inc. are contacted to provide services.

Comm. Parker said comparative costs should be for our geographical area.

Mr. John Richardson said the comparative costs are the acceptable charges and are shown with the contract.  Mr. Richardson said pass-thru costs would encompass those charges that are higher due to additional trucking costs or dumping costs.  Mr. Richardson said the amount of service provided can be determined when Grubbs Emergency Service, Inc. is contacted at the time of a disaster.  Comm. Stevens moved to enter into an agreement with Grubbs Emergency Services, Inc. on the piggy backed bid with Marion County.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Beauchamp advised the contract with Geo Engineering needed to be discussed as a non-agenda item. Comm. Rooks moved to discuss the non-agenda item.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Beauchamp said the contract was acceptable with several additional clauses being included.  Mr. Beauchamp explained the contract with Geo Engineering was for monitoring the wells at the landfill.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the contract with Geo Engineering subject to the additional clauses as recommended by the attorney. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

UNION

Mr. Beauchamp reported the union negotiations with the fire fighters had reached a verbal agreement and the proposed contract should be prepared prior to October 1, 2001.  Mr. Beauchamp said Local #630 had outstanding economic issues and the contract is still being negotiated.

BIDS

Mr. Justin Watson presented the following recommendations for acceptance of bids on supplies for the Road and Bridge Department:

    Culvert Pipe                        Gulf Atlantic

Comm. Foley moved to accept the low bid from Gulf Atlantic for culvert pipe.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    Guard Rails                         No bid received

Mr. Beauchamp said a bid was received at the Road Department the morning of the bid opening for guard rails.  Mr. Beauchamp explained the bid required it be submitted to the Office of the County Commission and to be properly marked which this bid was not.  Mr. Beauchamp recommended securing quotes if guard rails are needed.

    Safety Items                        Safety Zone Specialists, Municipal

                                                   Supply and Safety Equipment

Comm. Foley moved to accept the low bids from the recommended vendors.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    Asphalt/Coal mix               Central Materials

Comm. Foley moved to accept the low bid from Central Materials.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    Sod                                       DEC Sod

Comm. Foley moved to accept the low bid for sod from DEC Sod.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    Sign Material                      Vulcan Signs, Municipal Supply

                                                  Rocal, 3M General Office

Comm. Foley moved to accept the low bids from the recommended vendors.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ROAD MAINTENANCE

Mr. Watson presented the following request for road realignment:

LCR 542 (SE 62nd Place) located in Stephens Estates, Lot 4, to straighten the roadway by  realignment with a exchange of property with the owner through a Warrant Deed.

Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for realignment.  Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Watson presented the following request for road construction:

NW 111 Avenue located in Hideaway Unit 3, beginning at NW 113th Street and ending at NW 112th Place to provide a connection to Springside. The project will consist of clearing, grubbing, shoulder work and a limerock road bask for a length of 0.04 miles (226') with a 50' right of way and 21 feet of limerock road base for an estimated cost of $2,501.82.

Comm. Rooks moved to approve the request forthe road construction which will allow emergency vehicles more efficient access.

Mr. Watson presented the following requests for maintenance on a one (1) time basis:

NE 112th Terrace located in Oak Ridge Estates, two (2) loads of rock and grading for an estimated cost of $600.00, beginning at NE 64th Street and ending at NE 65th Street.

Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis.  Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

NE 109th Court located in University Oaks, five (5) loads of rock and grading for an estimated cost of $1,500.00, beginning at NE 108th Street to 200' past NE 112th Court.

Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

NE 108th Court located in University Oaks, two (2) loads of rock and grading for an estimated cost of $600.00, beginning at NE 109th Court and to the dead end of NE 108th Street.

Comm. Parker moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis.  Comm. Foley seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Watson presented the following request for resurfacing:

LCR 207 (NW Old Fanning Road) for a distance of 2.07 miles (14,327').

Comm. Rooks moved to approve the request for resurfacing.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Watson presented the following request for road construction:

Roadway known as SE 140th Avenue, lying South of SE 73rd Lane, a/k/a Derby Drive and also lying between Lot 47 of Triple Crown Farms Unit One and Lot 84 of Triple Crown Farms Unit Two, consisting of clearing, grubbing, shoulder work and a lime rock base for a length of 0.13 miles (702') with a 50' right of way and 21' feet of lime rock road base for an estimated cost of $7,771.14.

Mr. Watson explained this is a public right of way for Triple Crown Subdivision that is a MSTU and those residents are paying an assessment for road maintenance and Mrs. Sommers property is not a part of the MSTU.

Mr. Gilbert inquired why the road was not constructed to county standards by the developer.

Mr. Watson said the property concerned was not a part of the subdivision and was a 40 acre tract that was subdivided.

Mrs. Sandra Bassett said the road way has been designated as her legal address.

 Comm. Stevens moved to deny the request to construct SE 140th Avenue.   Comm. Foley seconded.

Comm. Parker said there was a concern on setting a precedence in taking this action and would like to clarify the issue of the 40 acres being subdivided.  Comm. Stevens moved to rescind his action to deny the request and to table any action until the next regular meeting.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT

Mr. Watson recommended completing the waiver/reduction of match requirements for the Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) for the widening of the existing 18 feet lane width to a 22 feet lane width and resurfacing of C-335 (NE 106th Terrace & NE 7th Street) beginning at US 27 Alt. continuing to SR 121.  Mr. Watson explained this may allow for the project to be fully funded through the grant application. Comm. Rooks moved to sign the waiver/reduction of match requirements with the Florida Department of Transportation. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Watson requested authorization to submit the following projects for placement of the Five (5) Year Plan with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

    1.                                          Caution Light: Intersection of SR 121 and C-326.

    2.                                            Signal Light: Intersection US 19 and C-320.

Comm. Parker moved to amend the five (5) Year Plan with the Florida Department of Transportation to include the two (2) recommended projects.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ROAD MAINTENANCE

Mr. Watson presented the following request for placing on the paving list:

Paving roadway from Holy Family Catholic Church entrance on LCR 173 (NE 172nd Court) at US 27 Alt. for approximately 300'.

Comm. Stevens explained the traffic counts do not justify the paving of the roadway and recommended removing the milling and replacing it with lime rock.  Comm. Stevens moved to remove the milling and replace it with lime rock for the described project.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Watson requested to present a non-agenda item concerning the paving of a roadway.  Comm. Stevens moved to discuss the non-agenda item.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

LCR 207 (Old Fanning grade) for a distance of 1500' located between NW 142nd Place and NW 150th Street.

Comm. Rooks moved to resurface the described project.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

LEGISLATIVE

Comm. Rooks presented a draft of items to address to the Legislative Delegation on September 25, 2001. Comm. Rooks requested the draft be reviewed and appraise her of  any additions to the request.  Comm. Rooks said some of the recommendations are for assistance in funding the fire districts, road paving projects and Article V funding.

Mr. Lannie Cardona said the Legislative Delegation needs to be acknowledged for assistance that has been received.

SALARY AND WAGES

Comm. Foley presented the following requests for salary increases:

Grace Benton, Development Department, an increase from $11.6358 per hour to $12.1358 per hour.

Comm. Foley moved to approve the salary increase.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Lisa Davis, Development Department, an increase from $7.4300 per hour to $7.9300 per hour.

Comm. Foley moved to approve the salary increase.  Comm. Stevens seconded.  Comm. Rooks said Ms. Davis has been employed for 11 months and this is the second merit raise in that time period.  Mr. Corbitt said the merit raise was for her job performance, and the duties she performs. Comm. Parker said another employee was hired several months later at a higher salary level for the same position level.  Comm. Rooks said a problem has developed with newer employees receiving higher salaries.   Comm. Foley, Chairman Yearty voted YES, Comm. Rooks, Comm. Stevens and Comm. Parker voted NO and the MOTION FAILED.

Heather S. Dishman, Development Department, an increase from $7.2500 per hour to $7.7500 per hour.

Comm.  Rooks moved to approve a salary increase for Lisa Davis and Heather S. Dishman of $7.7500 per hour.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Kimberly R. Durrance, Development Department, an increase from $10.2057 per hour to $10.7057 per hour.

Comm. Foley moved to approve the salary increase.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Laurie S. Durrance, Development Department, an increase from $8.6000 per hour to $9.1000 per hour.

Comm. Foley moved to approve the salary increase.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COUNTY EMPLOYEES

Mr. Corbitt introduced Mr. Matt Johnson the Code Enforcement Officer and explained his duties and qualifications.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mrs. Vera Ritch said there were used tires on US 19 and was concerned with a mosquito problem.  Mr. Hardee said Mosquito Control could assist Mr. Johnson with the complaint.

CLERK OF COURT/TO BOARD

Mr. Shipp said a final meeting to conclude the fiscal year of 2000-2001 needs to be held on Friday, September 28, 2001 at 9:00 a.m..  Mr. Beauchamp said the union contracts may be prepared by that time for approval.

PLANNING, COUNTY

Ms. Krista Kelly requested permission to discuss a non-agenda item concerning the Land Development Regulations.  Comm. Rooks moved to discuss the non-agenda item.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Ms. Kelly said a series of public workshops with the Planning Board and the Board of County Commissioners are needed to review the Land Development Regulations (LDRs). Ms. Kelly explained the ordinance relating to mining and landfills are not effectively protecting the public interest.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the workshops.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

PARKS AND RECREATION

Mr. Hardee requested permission to discuss a non-agenda item concerning two (2) of the county parks. Comm. Stevens moved to discuss the non-agenda item.  Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Hardee said the two (2) swimming parks are closed during the winter months normally opening the first of May and closing after Labor Day in September.  Comm. Parker said residents have complained about the parks not being opened and the weather still allows for the use of the parks.  Comm. Parker said he was concerned the taxpayers were not being able to utilize the parks during warm weather and would like to see the hours of operation extended.

Mr. Hardee recommended opening the parks the first of April to allow for spring break and to close them on September 30th.  Mr. Hardee said this would add two (2) additional months of operation.

Comm. Rooks said need to consider the additional salaries to be paid and the affect on the budget. Chairman Yearty requested Mr. Hardee, Mr. Moody and Mr. Shipp review the extended hours of operation on the salaries and benefits for the employees and report at the next regular meeting.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mr. Wayne Janney inquired on the requested investigation on the allegations made in the meetings. Mr. Beauchamp said there are agencies funded to handle investigations  on the allegations made and the private citizen can make a complaint at any of the agencies and request an investigation.

Mr. Janney inquired if any action had been taken on the removal of the hunting camp on the acreage owned by the county.  Mr. Moody said the property has been posted for “No Trespassing.”

Mr. Janney asked if job evaluations were being performed to determine if salary increases were merited. Mr. Beauchamp said salaries are an issue in the union contract and are part of the bargain process and portions of personnel files are open to public inspection.

Mr. Ron Grant encouraged support of Department Heads obtaining additional  education qualifications on their overtime.

Ms. Annette Long said if changes are being made to the mining ordinance any applications for permits should be held.  Mr. Beauchamp said this will be addressed in the public notice.

Mr. Dave Bibby said it was his opinion the county administrator had been unfairly terminated and inquired when the position would be advertised.  Chairman Yearty advised Mr. Moody is currently handling the day to day operations.

Mr. John King expressed concern on the actions of terminating the county administrator and the county attorneys contract.

 

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ADJOURNED.

                                                                            

                                                                                           W. S. Yearty, Board Chairman

ATTEST:

 

Danny J. Shipp, Clerk of Court

[1] Resolution - September 11, 2001

[2] Purge Inventory