REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

December 3,  2002

 The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on December 3, 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.  Nancy Bell
Comm. Sammy Yearty
Comm. Lilly Rooks
 

 Also present were:

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

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

EXPENDITURES

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

FUND                                                         AMOUNT
CHECK NUMBERS:   68007 - 68175

 

 

GENERAL FUND

$791,806.08

ROAD & BRIDGE FUND

 66,960.61

LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE

24,175.00

LIBRARY FUND

3,933.70

FINE & FORFEITURE FUND

 23,534.23

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

60,109.00

LANDFILL & RECYCLING

6,996.26

FLORIDA POWER GRANT FUND

356.21

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE

5,923.12

FIRE CONTROL

6,738.50

COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS

2,100.00

CAPITAL PROJECTS

4,839.00

UTILITIES FUND

1,174.29

 

 

TOTAL

$998,646.00

 

MINUTES

Comm. Rooks moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of November 19, 2002.  Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COMMISSIONERS

Chairman Parker called for Public Comments.  Mayor Risher of the Town of Inglis expressed appreciation of the support provided by the county to the municipalities.

TAX ROLL

Mr. Fred Moody presented the following Certificates of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll.  Mr. Moody explained the properties had been inspected by Mr. Mat Johnson, Code Enforcement or other authorize official and were found to be in order.

    Agnes A. Bradham, Parcel Number #11961-000-00, Hawkins Acres, Recorded/Unrecorded, Lot 47, mobile home previously on the property has been removed and request adjustment from one (1) unit to none.

 

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

    Sandra Colson, Parcel Number #00589-001-00, 14951 N. W. 72nd Court, Chiefland, adjustment from two (2) units to one (1) unit. Property has storage shed and large pole barn that have no provision for living space.

 

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

    Annie Mae Battles, Parcel Number #05140-000-00, 2990 N. E. 202nd Terrace, Williston, adjustment from one (1) unit to none.  The mobile home previously on the property has been moved in excess of one (1) year.

 

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

Mr. Moody presented the following Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll to correct the Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) assessment:

    Nancy Fairweather, Parcel Number #09512-001-00, 2370 SE SR 121, Morriston, property fronts SR 121 and is not accessed from a county road.

 

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

    Morris and Nancy Alvey, Parcel Number #09512-003-00, Replat Williston Highlands Unit 5, Block 31, Lot 4, property fronts SR 121 and is not accessed from a county road.

 

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

TAX COLLECTOR

Mr. Moody said Mrs. Linda Fugate, Tax Collector has made a request to have a T-1 line installed to communicate with the branch office.  Mr. Moody said Mrs. Fugate is asking assistance of $1,455.00 for the installation of the line which was not included in the budget for the Tax Collector.

Comm. Bell requested the item to be tabled to allow review of the line item budget and to allow  the attendance of Mrs. Fugate to explain her request.

MUNICIPALITIES

Mr. Moody said the Town of Inglis has requested assistance to waive tipping fees, the use of two (2) dump trucks, a backhoe and the operator's to have a major town clean up the week of January 6, 2003 and the week of January 13, 2003. Mr. Moody said the debris picked up will be burnable and was a result of the tornado damage recently received in the town.

Mr. Moody said a hazardous waste pickup is planned for February 13, 2003 and they are requesting assistance for that clean up and the waiving of tipping fees.  Comm. Yearty moved to approve the request of the Town of Inglis and provide assistance for the clean up of debris and the clean up of hazardous waste. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.  Comm. Yearty advised the Road Department to coordinate their schedule to provide the assistance.

COUNTY EMPLOYEES

Mr. Moody said the advertising dead line for the Veteran's Service Officer and Emergency Medical Services Director closed on November 29, 2002 and 18 applications were received for the Veteran's Service Officer and ten (10) applications for the Emergency Medical Services Director. Mr. Moody recommended a committee screen the applications and provide a recommendation of qualified applicants.  Chairman Parker appointed Mr. Major Stroupe, Mr. Fred Moody, Mrs. Susan Haines and Comm. Bell to review the applications for Veteran's Service Officer.

Comm. Rooks said only ten (10) applications were received for the Emergency Medical Services Director and recommended reviewing the job qualifications and salary range that was advertised and run an amended advertisement to see if additional applicants will apply for the position.

Comm. Bell recommended contacting surrounding counties of equal size and review their responsibilities and salary ranges to determine if any adjustments need to be made.

SHERIFF

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

Mr. Moody said the van used for transporting inmates to and from Bradford County for court appearances and medical appointments is being repaired and could be used for transporting inmates locally.

Major Bobby McCallum explained a quote had been obtained through the Sheriff's Association for state bids and a 15 passenger can be obtained for $18,706.00 and $7,945.00 to purchase and install the van cell required for inmate security. Major McCallum said the $120,000.00 budgeted for transportation of the $126,000.00 has already been committed to the purchase of patrol units and it was not foreseen when the  budget was prepared that the van used to transport inmates was going to need to be replaced.

Major Bobby McCallum explained the increase in over time, use of units not normally scheduled for transportation, and transporting inmates from Bradford County on a daily basis has created an emergency situation and unplanned capital outlay.  Major McCallum said the transportation budget is obligated on the lease purchase for new patrol vehicles and is obligated for another two (2) years.

Comm. Yearty moved to approve the transfer of $26,651.00 for the purchase of a van to transport prisoners from the General Fund. Comm. Rooks seconded.

Comm. Bell requested no action be taken as this is a non-agenda item and she was not prepared to vote without reviewing the budget for the General Fund and the Sheriff's budget.

Comm. Yearty recommended scheduling a special meeting to address the needs of the Sheriff's Office and allow Comm. Bell time to review the request with Sheriff Smith. Comm. Yearty rescinded his action for discussion at a special meeting.

JAIL

Sheriff Smith said the architect had presented the needs assessment for the jail and a revised package would be available for review at a workshop between December 11, 2002 and December 17, 2002.  Chairman Parker explained careful consideration needs to be given to the plans to prevent costly mistakes and allow for plans that will provide a foundation for the future.

Comm. Rooks recommended a special meeting on Thursday, December 12, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. to review the needs for the jail expansion and the passenger van. Chairman Parker scheduled the special meeting as proposed for Thursday, December 12, 2002.

COUNTY ENGINEER

Mr. Lee Mills said he has inspected the bridge in Cedar Key that allows access to Dock Street in response to the advisory received for prompt repair action from the State of Florida bridge inspector. Mr. Mills recommended securing the services of a consultant specializing in marine structures to review and recommend repairs.  Mr. Mills explained the bridge is in need of repair but it is not at the point that it needs to be removed and replaced.  Mr. Mills said it appears three (3) pilings are of concern and may be able to be repaired with new rebar and structural repair. Comm. Rooks moved to approve hiring a consultant at Mr. Mills recommendation unless the Department of Transportation bridge inspector can provide the technical assistance for marine structure repairs.  Comm. Yearty seconded.

Mr. Mills said the advisory will be reported on the Monthly Critical Deficient Federal Highway Report commencing January 2003 and repairs should not be unduly extended. Mr. Mills said there are no safety concerns on the weight limit now allowed on the bridge and the MOTION CARRIED.

TAX ROLL

Mr. Moody said the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Mr. Robert Senay would not be presented on the agenda pending a report from Mr. Johnson on the request.

LIBRARY

Mr. Tom Reitz presented a resolution recognizing Mrs. Norene B. Andrews as librarian at the Bronson Public Library for the past twenty-four years. Comm. Bell moved to adopt the resolution recognizing Mrs. Andrews.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.  Mr. Reitz presented the resolution to Mrs. Andrews.

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS

Mr. Reitz requested authorization to apply for the e-rate telecommunications discount. Mr. Reitz explained annual application must be made for the e-rate discount and  it allows approximately 77% discount on telecommunication charges. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the application for the e-rate discount. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Reitz said the agenda item for the McNaughton Plan was not being presented until additional documentation has been received. Mr. Reitz requested a waiver of policy to obtain additional quotes and authorization to purchase the services of EBSCO a periodical jobber for $2,934.18 in excess of the $2,500.00 limit. Mr. Reitz explained the library is able to subscribe to 109 periodicals through EBSCO at some discount to the system.  Comm. Yearty moved to approve the EBSCO fee of $2,934.18 in excess of the $2,500.00 limit in accordance with Mr. Reitz's presentation. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

APPOINTMENTS

Mr. Reitz recommended appointing Mr. James Statham to the Levy County Library Advisory Board.  Comm. Yearty moved to approve the appointment of Mr. James Statham to the Library Advisory Board with Comm. Stevens being allowed to change the appointment if needed.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ORDINANCES

Mr. Greg Beauchamp presented the ordinance amending the Land Development Code, Section 50-53, Membership, providing for the addition of a nonvoting member to the Planning Commission to represent the School Board on Comprehensive Land Use amendments that will increase the residential density and impact the school system.  Mr. Beauchamp explained the addition of the nonvoting representative from the School Board to the Planning Commission is mandated by Florida Statute. Comm. Bell moved to adopt the proposed ordinance.  Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

ROAD MAINTENANCE

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

    SE 67th Place, located in Ocala Highlands West, two (2) hours of grading for an estimated cost of $134.00.

 

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

    NE 70th Street, NE 71st Street, NE 110th Avenue and NE 112th Terrace, located in University Estates, two (2) hours of grading for an estimated cost of $134.00.

 

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

    NE 12th Street, located in Williston Highlands, Unit 14, two (2) hours of grading for an estimated cost of $134.00.

 

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

    NE 156th Avenue, located in Williston Golf and Country Club, three (3) loads of rock and grading for an estimated cost of $900.00.

 

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

    NW 81st Place, located in Rustling Pines, ½ hour of grading for an estimated cost of $33.50.

 

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

    NW 65th Avenue, US #19 Addition, three (3) loads of rock and grading for an estimated cost of $900.00.

 

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

ROADS, COUNTY

Mr. Watson presented requests for pavement cuts on C345 and LCR 214 by a landowner.   Mr. Watson said one landowner has advised they will do a direct bore.  Comm. Bell recommended establishing a policy and prepare a cost analysis for direct bores and pavement cuts.  Comm. Bell said direct bores were more satisfactory as pavement cuts weakens the pavement and leaves the road area uneven.  Comm. Rooks said sufficient liability insurance should be provided by the contractor for direct bores. Comm. Bell moved to approve the direct bore on C345 and LCR 214 with proof of sufficient liability insurance. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

SHIP

Mrs. Carol McQueen presented the following Deferred Payment Loan Agreements:

    Susan J. Jehlik, to purchase a home located at 7550 NW 55th Avenue, Sunshine Estates, Lot 11, Chiefland for $15,000.00.

 

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

    Penny R. and Robert D. Bailey, to purchase a home at 30 Easy Street, Lot 3, Northwood Heights, Bronson for $6,200.00.

 

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

ROAD CLOSING

Mr. Beauchamp said a request to vacate a road was received from Mr. Hopping that must be re-advertised as the legal description was complicated and the advertising was canceled due to a scrivener's error. Mr. Beauchamp said the public hearing would be rescheduled to January 7, 2003 at 10:30 a.m. if no objections were presented.

COUNTY EMPLOYEES

Mr. Beauchamp said an agreement had been reached to reimburse back salary, attorney fees and payment of medical evaluations for Michele Dumont and recommended acceptance of the agreement. Mr. Beauchamp explained the back salary was approximately $30,000.00 and attorney fees approximately $5,000.00. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the agreement upon the recommendation of Mr. Beauchamp.  Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

APPOINTMENTS

Comm. Bell moved to appoint Mr. Jerry Orenchak to the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.

COMMISSIONERS

Comm. Rooks recommended scheduling a workshop to review land regulations for tracts of land 20 acres or larger. Mr. Moody advised a work shop will be scheduled in January concerning the Cedar Key Plantation and this could be included on the agenda for the work shop.

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS

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

Ms. Heather Alexander presented the fire agreement received from Gulf Hammock Volunteer Fire Department.  Comm. Bell said she objected to hearing a non-agenda item and requested it be placed on the agenda for the next regular meeting.  Comm. Rooks advised it could delay release of funds.

PLANNING, COUNTY

Mr. Jeff Kramer, of the Center for Urban Transportation Research, (CUTR) presented a brief overview of the workshop scheduled at 1:00 p.m. for the benefit of Comm. Rooks and Comm. Bell who will be unable to attend.

PLANNING, COUNTY

Mrs. Kathy Winburn said the special meeting scheduled for December 19, 2002 at 6:30 p.m. concerns the transmittal of two (2) proposed land use amendments to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

Chairman Parker called the workshop to order at 1:00 p.m. to review the US Highway 19 Overlay District prepared by the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR).

Mr. Jeff Kramer explained the project reviews access management, land use for the US Highway 19 corridor from Chiefland to Fanning Springs.  Mr. Kramer said the intent is to have a long term strategy to provide maximum interstate traffic movement with median, traffic signals, drive way spacing to allow safe local access along the corridor.

Mr. Kramer explained the proposal would not affect existing businesses and is written to encourage unified access and circulation systems and consolidation of small, irregular lots into larger properties for development

Mr. Kramer said a GIS mapping system had been developed with the information provided by the Property Appraiser that will be a useful tool in the future development of the US Highway 19 corridor.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ADJOURNED.

 

                    Tony Parker, Board Chairman

ATTEST:

 

Danny J. Shipp, Clerk of Court