REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

March 19,  2002

 The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on March 19, 2002  at 9:00 a.m. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners’ meeting room, with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman Tony Parker
Vice Chairman  Danny Stevens
Comm.  Don Foley
Comm. Sammy Yearty
Comm. Lilly Rooks

 Also present were:

County Attorney - Gregory V. Beauchamp
Clerk of Court - Danny J. Shipp
Assistant County Administrator - Fred Moody

 

 The Chairman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m..  The invocation was given by Mr. Danny Shipp followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

EXPENDITURES

 Comm. Stevens moved to approve the following expenditures presented for payment. Comm.  Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

FUND                                                               AMOUNT
CHECK NUMBERS:   34328 - 34555

 

GENERAL FUND                                     $268,120.02

ROAD & BRIDGE FUND                             20,409.04

LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE                 4,475.10

MEDIATION                                                        300.00

FINE & FORFEITURE FUND                       38,485.53

LANDFILL & RECYCLING                           57,236.39

COURT FACILITIES                                     23,334.46

FLORIDA POWER GRANT FUND                   536.96

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE          14,933.20

SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION                           1,769.88

ST GRANT - JUVENILE JUSTICE                1,836.48

UTILITIES FUND                                               1,076.16

 

TOTAL                                                        $432,513.22

 

MINUTES

Comm. Stevens moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of March 5, 2002.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

BONDS

Mr. Ralph Cellon, Morgan, Keegan and Company, explained the benefits of early retirement of the bond issue and the procedures involved.  Mr. Cellon said the bond can not be retired prior to September 1, 2002 and process must be commenced before July 1, 2002 to meet notification requirements.

Mr. Cellon said the bond could also be refinanced to provide funds for additional  capital improvements. Mr. Cellon explained if the bond issue is retired then if an additional bond issue is needed there would be issuance costs that would not be necessary if the bond was refinanced.

Comm. Foley said the action was to retire the current bond issue and would prefer the issuance of another bond issue for future improvements and using the reserve account to retire the bond as originally planned at the inception of the bond.

Mr. Danny Shipp clarified the intent was to proceed with retiring the current bond issue, prepare “needs assessments” for the court house, jail and road department with consideration of a future bond issue to address those capital improvements.

AGENCIES

Mr. Lannie Cardona said the Withlacoochee Regional Planning Council has requested an update for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for 2002. Mr. Cardona explained this does not guarantee funding  of the projects on the list but if the project is not shown it will not be considered.  Comm. Stevens moved to approve the recommended list for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy be submitted to Withlacoochee Regional Planning Council. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Rooks moved to discuss a non-agenda item.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Cardona said notice has been received of a forum co-hosted by the Florida Department of Transportation preparing for the reauthorization of TEA-21 funds.  Mr. Cardona said  the 2003 fall Congress decisions will  determine the level of funding allocated to our state allowing for the improvement, expanding and maintaining of our transportation system.

Mrs. Beverly Gill explained Experience Works replaced the Green Thumb program that assists the low income,  55 years old and older worker to seek and find employment.  Mrs. Gill said their goal is to provide a small labor force to satisfy the needs of employers. Mrs. Gill said nominations for the “Older American Worker” are being requested for the Older Worker Prime Time awards.

ROADS, COUNTY

Mr. Edward Johnson said LCR 117 had been placed on the paving list and it has been six (6) months since the right of way had been cleared and was inquiring when the paving might commence.

Comm. Stevens said utilities had to be relocated from the right of way and a road  paving project is being completed in Small Farms.

Mr. Warren Downs said NW 71st Avenue is in a MSTU and requested assistance having the road paved.

Chairman Parker explained that Mr. Justin Watson is reviewing the road system and trying to determine what roads meet the same criteria as NW 71st Avenue and the economic impact on the budget.

Mr. Downs said developers should be responsible for paved roads in subdivisions.

MSTUs

Mr. C. W. Gilbert submitted a written request to be provided in writing by April 2, 2002 of any existing rule, decree or policy on the paving of a road within an MSTU.

COUNTY PLANNER

Mr. Gilbert recommended hiring a part time planner citing there was not a need for a full time planner.

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Mr. Gilbert said a permit had been pulled for a county employee by a mobile home company and requested in writing a written response by April 2, 2002 for any rule, land development regulation, or decree allowing the denial of building permits to residents solely on the basis of limiting the number of building sites per parcel regardless of the size to only two(2).

COUNTY EMPLOYEES

Mr. Gilbert requested to be placed on the agenda for the April 2, 2002 regular meeting to discuss the termination of a county employee for the improper use of county equipment, a conflict of interest and the use of supplies for personal projects.

MISCELLANEOUS

Mr. Charles Greene said the county needs a full time planner and questioned the use of his tax dollars being spent responding on allegations of wrong doing without it being properly documented and submitted to the Commission.

SHIP

Mrs. Marilyn Simmons said the SHIP program was instituted by the Board of County Commission in February, 1992 and has assisted many residents obtain housing.

Mrs. Carol McQueen said the SHIP program is a partnership with the State, county personnel, contractors, real estate agencies, banks and title agencies to facilitate affordable housing.  Mrs. McQueen explained funding is obtained from documentary stamps and provides purchasing assistance for new or existing housing, rehabilitation, and emergency home repairs for very low, low and moderate income families.  Mrs. McQueen  said it provides a better quality and stability of life for the home owner and provides a broader ad valorem tax base.

Mrs. Simmons presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Commissioners and Mrs. McQueen for their support of the SHIP program.

Mrs. Simmons said Mr. Fred Matthews has been a volunteer speaker for 9 ½ years for the mandatory six (6) hour educational program attended by prospective home buyers.  Mrs. Simmons recognized Mr. Matthews with a Certificate of Appreciation.  Mrs. Simmons  commended Mr. Gilbert Levy of Perkins State Bank, for their support, Mr. Ron Grant of Harriet Downs Real Estate and Bethany Swanson supporting the SHIP program from its inception.

COUNTY AGENT

Mr. Anthony Drew said the Agricultural Center needs a position approved for general janitorial services, minor maintenance and repairs and general field support for the Agricultural Agent.  Mr. Drew said the position would be on flexible hours to allow the employee to be utilized at hours when needed for a hourly rate of $10.00 to $10.50 on a 40 hour week.  Comm. Yearty moved to approve the position at a hourly rate of $10.00 to $10.50 for a flexible 40 hour work week and allowing an amendment to the budget from the General Fund if necessary, with the salary and janitorial duties being confirmed with the Clerk, Mr. Shipp and Mr. Moody. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

PLANNING, COUNTY

Mrs. Sandy Fink said currently there are complicated issues, including the proposed mining ordinance and recommended postponing any action until a planner has been hired.

Mr. Moody said the committee has addressed the concerns and another workshop will be required and they are awaiting the hiring of a planner while redrafting the proposed ordinance.

Mr. Moody said the workshop for the proposed mining ordinance will be addressed at the April 2, 2002 regular meeting and the interviews for the position of County Planner have been scheduled for March 26, 2002 commencing at 1:00 p.m..

TAX COLLECTOR

Mr. Moody presented the following requests for Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll:

    Parcel #14533-000-00; assessed to Dale A. Barber, Oak Knoll Estates, Block 6, Lot 5, OR Book 503, Page 326, 15690 NW 44th Court, Trenton, Levy County, amending from two (2) units to one (1) unit with the removal of one (1) unit in 1999 when the hardship ceased.

 

Comm. Stevens moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

 

    Parcel #04854-000-00; assessed to Katherine Brown and Willie D. Rayford, 0000.50 acres tract in SE 1/4 of SE 1/4 being East ½ of Tract described in OR Book 240, Page 786, amending from two (2) units to one (1) unit with the division of the parcel to another land owner.

 

Comm. Stevens moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    Parcel #03578-000-00; assessed to Marie K. Hunter, 0040.00 acres, South ½ of South ½ of NE 1/4, OR Book 673, Page 450, amending from three (3) units to two (2) units, with only a home and double-wide mobile home now on property.

 

Comm. Stevens moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

LICENSES AND PERMITS

Mrs. Jacqueline Martin said the Florida Pyrotechnic Arts Guild has submitted the Fireworks Display Authorization for the fireworks display on April 12 and April 13 at the Withlacoochee Bluegrass festival property. Mrs. Martin said they are requesting authorization to operate from 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and South Levy Volunteer Fire & Rescue, fire chief Roger Crossman has recommended approval of the request.

Mr. Moody said there were a few complaints from residents on the Citrus county side of the river and the Guild has previously complied to a reasonable cut off time for the fireworks display.

Mr. Goode said Chief Crossman had recommended a 10:00 p.m. cut off and proof of insurance.

Comm. Rooks moved to approve the permit with a 10:00 p.m. cut off and a Certificate of Insurance providing limits of liability insurance coverage.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

INSURANCE

Mrs. Martin said Public Risk Management of Florida has requested a Board member and alternate Board member to be designated to the Group Health Board of Directors.  Comm. Foley said he would serve as a Board member.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

Mr. Bill Beddow requested approval to extend an Invitation to Bid for one (1) new Ford Chassis and Rescue unit. Mr. Beddow said the grant was approved to allow for the purchase of the unit.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the Invitation to Bid for the Ford Chassis and Rescue unit. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Rooks moved to address a non-agenda item.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Rooks said Mr. Moody, Mr. Beddow and Union representative Mr. Brett Sandlin had reviewed the site and specifications for the mobile home unit to establish an Emergency Medical Services station in Inglis/Yankeetown. Comm. Rooks said they were recommending approval of an Invitation to Bid for a double wide mobile home to be placed at the Bronson station and to place the single wide unit in Bronson at the Inglis/Yankeetown station.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the Invitation to Bid for a double wide mobile home unit for the Bronson Emergency Medical Services station and the moving of the single wide mobile home unit in Bronson to Inglis/Yankeetown.  Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Rooks moved to discuss a non-agenda item.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Rooks said a decision is needed for the construction of the Emergency Medical Service station in Williston on the land donated by the school board.  Comm. Rooks said a determination is need if the construction will be handled by the Maintenance and Construction Department or if Invitation for Bids will be advertised for the project. 

Mr. Beddow said the final design plans will be completed shortly and will be able to present them at the next regular meeting. 

ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT

Mr. Justin Watson presented the following quotes for the removal and installation of the chain link fencing across the front of the Road Department grounds:

    Becks Fencing $1,617.00

    (Plus any additional materials)

    Watkins Services $7,500.00

    Andrews Fence $4,150.00

 

Chairman Parker appointed Mr. Watson and Mr. Moody to review the quotes with him and provide a recommendation.

ROAD MAINTENANCE

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

    NE 62nd Street, Oak Ridge Estates, for rock and grading at an estimated cost of $3,600.00, beginning at NE 119th Terrace and ending at NE 117th Terrace.

 

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

    NE 107th Place, University Oaks, for grading and a tractor and mixer for an estimated cost of $585.00, beginning at NE 109th Place and ending at the dead end of NE 107th Place.

 

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

    T. B. Wilson Subdivision, road repair with rock and grading for an estimated cost of $600.00 and the removal of a pine tree in the right of way.

 

Comm. Rooks moved to approve the request for maintenance on a one (1) time basis and the removal of the pine tree.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Comm. Stevens moved to discuss a non-agenda item.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

    SW 122nd Court requiring grading, commencing at LCR 453 (SW Shiloh Road) continuing to SW 70th Street, for an estimated cost of $67.00.

 

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

ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT

Mr. Watson said Mrs. Mary Fortinberry has agreed to allow the storage of rock on a portion of her property for the rebuilding of LCR 464.  Mr. Watson explained allowing the rock to be stored closer to the work site would facilitate the road work by not having to transport the rock from Gulf Hammock. Mr. Watson said Mrs. Fortinberry requested an exchange of placing limerock and a culvert for her drive which would require some leveling and tree removal and would cost under $500.00. Comm. Stevens moved to enter into a lease agreement with Mrs. Fortinberry for the storage of rock on her property in exchange for the work as the rental fee. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

GRANTS

Mrs. Donna Shipp requested authorization to apply for a Federal Highway Safety Funding grant at 100% reimbursement if awarded, to purchase two (2) solar powered traffic message board signs.  Comm. Yearty moved to approve the request to apply for a Federal Highway Safety grant. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mrs. Shipp said there would be travel and seminars connected to the grant application and requested authorization to attend the meetings as necessary. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the travel and attendance costs. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

SHIP

Mrs. Carol McQueen presented a proposed amended to the Housing Assistance Plan (HAP) for review.  Mrs. McQueen said with the recent military action homeowners are being relocated for the length of their service and intend on continuing to own their home and returning when their tour of duty is completed.  Mrs. McQueen explained it would be a temporary situation and recommended establishing a criteria to be eligible.

JAIL

Mr Danny Shipp said Sheriff Johnny Smith has prepared a proposed needs assessment list for the additional jail space and administrative office space and a workshop is needed to review the assessment.  Comm. Stevens recommended reviewing the wastewater facility needs.

Mr. Moody said a workshop to review the needs of the Sheriff’s Office and jail has been scheduled for April 2, 2002 at 1:00 p.m..

UTILITIES

Comm. Stevens moved to discuss a non-agenda item.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Shipp said the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has inspected Manatee and University Oaks water plants and found repairs that must be completed within a certain time period.  Mr. Shipp recommended expanding the fence perimeter to meet future needs of expansion of the Manatee water utility. Mr. Shipp said the corners could not be located and recommended contracting with a surveyor to provide the property lines.

Mr. Beauchamp recommended contacting Mills Engineering since they prepared the original plat for Chiefland Golf and Country Club and that could include the boundary lines. Comm. Stevens moved to authorize Mr. Shipp to proceed to correct the deficiencies at the utilities in accordance with the deadline imposed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.  Mr. Shipp said the Department of Environmental (DEP) has been cooperative and would allow an extension if necessary.

COMMISSIONERS

Chairman Parker scheduled a workshop for Thursday, April 4, 2002 at 9:00 a.m. to discuss and review capital improvements.

Comm. Stevens agreed to purchase a hog on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners at the Suwannee Live Stock show.  Comm. Stevens explained the purchase would be on a private basis and no county funds would be used.

ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT

Chairman Parker said the quotes for the removal and reinstallation of the frontage fence at the Road Department had been reviewed and recommended accepting the low quote from Beck’s Fencing for $1,617.00 and materials as needed. Comm. Foley moved to accept the quote from Beck’s Fencing. Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Ms. Paula Edwards explained an amendment to the contract with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for USDA commodities was needed for an increase of $630.00.  Comm. Rooks moved to approve the amendment to the contract.  Comm. Stevens seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

 

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ADJOURNED.

 

                    Tony Parker, Board Chairman

ATTEST:

 

Danny J. Shipp, Clerk of Court