REGULAR MEETING
LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
January 21, 2003
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on January 21, 2003 at 6:30 p.m. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners' meeting room, with the following Commissioners present:
Chairman Danny Stevens
Vice Chairman Lilly Rooks
Comm. Tony Parker
Comm. Sammy Yearty
Comm. Nancy Bell
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 6:30 p.m.. The invocation was given by Mr. Justin Watson followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
EXPENDITURES
Comm. Parker moved to approve the following expenditures presented for payment. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
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MINUTES
Comm. Rooks moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of January 7, 2003 and the special meeting and workshop on January 8, 2003. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mrs. Susan Haines advised the minutes of December 17, 2002 need the check numbers corrected to reflect check numbers 68176 - 68380. Mrs. Haines said the monetary amounts presented were correct and only the check numbers needed correcting.
SHIP
Mr. Dick Tummond presented the following Deferred Payment Loan Agreement:
Darfeness S. Hinds to purchase a home located at Cherry Point Subdivision, Unit 2, Lot 2, Williston for $5,750.00.
Comm. Rooks moved to approve the Deferred Payment Loan Agreement. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
Mr. Fred Moody said Mr. C. W. Gilbert had requested to be withdrawn from the agenda.
FESTIVALS
Mr. Eddie Enright said the Vietnam Veterans Gathering, Inc. will be hosting the 6th Annual Gathering on June 13, 14 and 15, 2003 and are requesting authorization to hang two (2) banners on CR 40 facing east and west approximately 10 to 14 days prior to the event. Comm. Bell moved to approve hanging the banners on CR 40. Comm. Yearty seconded on the condition the banners meet the requirements of the Road Department for safety and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Enright said in addition to the Vietnam War Memorial Moving Wall they will have in attendance the Silent Marine Drill Platoon and the Blackhawk helicopter.
Mr. Enright explained they would like as many local representatives to speak at the Gathering with times being on the opening on Friday, Saturday at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m. and closing ceremonies. Mr. Enright said U. S. Ambassador Pete Peterson and Mr. Adrian Cronour may be guest speakers.
Mr. Enright said it has been difficult raising funds this year and to date they have raised approximately $4,900.00 and the wall along requires $6,000.00 in costs. Mr. Enright said if any assistance could be made to offset expenses it would be appreciated.
TAX ROLL
Mr. Fred Moody presented the following Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment:
Parcel #4080-000-00 assessed to Walter and Catherine Young of 7790 N. E. Hwy. 41, Williston. Presently assessed for one (1) unit which has been removed and recommend correcting the assessment to none.
Mr. Moody said the property was inspected by Mr. Mat Johnson, Code Enforcement. Comm. Bell moved to approve the Certificate of Correction of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
VETERAN'S OFFICER
Mr. Moody explained Mr. George Hermansen was hired as Veteran's Service Officer with an advertised salary of $22,500.00 to $24,500.00. Mr. Moody said upon Mr. Hermansen's hire the salary was not discussed and recommended the beginning salary at $22,500.00 to be reviewed upon completion of the six (6) month probationary period. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the salary at $22,500.00. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Mr. Moody said the leachate hauling contract was awarded to Morris Dean Trucking at $137.50 per load. Mr. Moody explained Mr. Dean has requested an amendment to the contract to $147.50 per load to allow for the unexpected rise in fuel costs retroactive to January 1, 2003. Comm. Bell moved to approve amending the contract to $147.50 for the rising fuel costs and for it to be retroactive to January 1, 2003. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mr. Moody said the committee has revised the job description for the Emergency Medical Services Director and recommended advertising for a director with the new qualifications of:
- Fiscal Management Experience (minimum 3-5 years).
- A minimum of 3-5 years experience as a Supervisor in a medically related field.
- Hold a current EMT or Paramedic Certificate for the State of Florida (3-5 years experience).
- A current valid Florida Drivers License Type "D" with an "E" endorsement.
- Emergency Vehicle Operators course (EVOC)(Current).
- Levy County resident or willing to relocate.
Comm. Yearty moved to approve the job qualifications and to proceed with the advertising of the position. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
PROCLAMATIONS
Ms. Alice Monyei presented a proclamation recognizing February as "Black History Month". Comm. Bell moved to adopt the proclamation recognizing February as "Black History Month." Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED
COMMISSIONERS
Mrs. Annette Long commended the commission on the difficult job they have to perform.
FIRE DISTRICTS
Mr. Rick Lombardo said the Commission and the Fire Chiefs need to discuss the mandatory training requirements for certification of the volunteer fire fighters.
Mr. Lombardo said clarification was needed if the County Fire Chief was also the Chairman of the Fire Advisory Board as it appeared to be a conflict of interest.
Mrs. Sandy Fink said it appeared there would be more organization and did not seem to be a conflict of interest.
MISCELLANEOUS
Mrs. Monyei extended an invitation to attend the Annual Black History Month Celebration on February 15, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at the Tommy Usher, Pineland Center in Chiefland. Mrs. Monyei said the guest speaker will be Representative Edward L. "Ed" Jennings, Jr. of District 23.
FESTIVALS
Ms. Heather Alexander said Mrs. Margaret Knight has requested a permit for the Spring Withlacoochee Bluegrass Jamboree to be held March 28, 29 and 30, 2003 and agrees to comply with all permit requirements. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the permit application. Comm. Rooks seconded. Comm. Bell said there appeared to be an inconsistency in the permitting requirements and requested no action to be taken until discussing the permitting policy. Comm. Yearty rescinded his action and Comm. Rooks concurred.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Ms. Alexander presented the Wastewater Residual Disposal Agreement with Florida Septic, Inc.. Ms. Alexander said the terms and conditions have remained the same. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the agreement with Florida Septic, Inc.. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mrs. Marie Wells requested approval to purchase radios for the new ambulance in the amount of $6,434.57. Mrs. Wells explained the radios have been ordered and are ready for installation and have been included in the budget. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the purchase of the radios for $6,434.57. Comm. Bell seconded.
Mr. Danny Shipp said the radios were ordered and should had three (3) quotes, however, Baker Communications is the biggest vendor and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mrs. Wells said the grant for the ambulance has been awarded and will expire March 7, 2003. Mrs. Wells explained the ambulance has been on order and is expected to be delivered on the 5th of February and it must be in operation prior to the expiration of the grant or the funds will be forfeited.
Mr. Brett Sandlin explained the delay in the delivery of the ambulance resulted from the original order being for a 2002 chassis and upon ordering the automobile manufacture was preparing the 2003 models.
Mrs. Wells said the radios were purchased through the state contract from Baker Communications and the ambulance will be ready to be operational shortly after it is in possession and the state permit will be filed at that time.
Mrs. Wells said the grant check for $12,029.34 to purchase the 12 lead monitor for the Inglis rescue unit was submitted to the Finance Department.
COUNTY FIRE CHIEF
Mr. Victor Scott said the cost to train a firefighter the 220 hours would cost $324.00 per person which is approximately $1.50 per hour. Mr. Scott said Mr. Billy Carrecia is scheduling night courses at the Otter Creek Fire Department. Mr. Scott said he has been informed the City of Williston is arranging for training at approximately $2.00 per hour and the Fire College course is $600.00.
Mr. Scott said he was unaware of concern of his being interim County Fire Chief and Chairman of the Fire Advisory Board and would resign as Chairman of the Fire Advisory Board if that was necessary.
Mr. Scott said the Fire Advisory Board recommend the ownership of equipment be retained by the Fire Departments and continue to submit purchase orders for purchases from the allotment. Mr. Scott explained this was the personal safety equipment and not the large equipment such as trucks, motors and large equipment. Mr. Scott said the fire departments would still request approval from the Board of County Commissioners to sell any property.
Mr. Jerry Horton, Bronson Fire Department, the property referred to would be safety equipment, bunker gear and maintenance equipment.
Mr. Scott said the insurance coverage is being reviewed.
Comm. Rooks moved to approve the recommendation of the Fire Advisory Board on the ownership of certain equipment and it be outlined in a policy. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Scott requested authorization to have fire department vehicles maintained and repaired at the Road Department. Comm. Yearty recommended Mr. Scott discuss the request with Mr. Charlie Bedford and Mr. Kelly Jerrels.
Mr. Scott said the fire departments had been contacted concerning the certification training for personnel and all of the departments except South Levy Volunteer Fire Department had budgeted for the expense of training personnel.
Chairman Stevens said there are new standards for the firefighters and a workshop with the fire chiefs would be a benefit to be advised of all new requirements. Chairman Stevens scheduled a workshop for February 10, 2003 at 6:30 p.m..
Chairman Stevens requested the consensus of the Board to send a letter to the legislative delegation expressing the concerns for the volunteer fire departments and the consensus of the Board was to proceed with the recommendation.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Ms. Alexander presented the fire contracts for the City of Williston, Town of Inglis, City of Chiefland and Fanning Springs. Comm. Rooks moved to approve the 2002-2003 fire contracts. Comm. Parker seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
LIBRARY
Mr. Tom Reitz presented a proclamation to recognize the month of February as Library Appreciation Month. Comm. Bell moved to adopt the proposed proclamation. Comm. Yearty seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Reitz presented the interlocal agreement for reciprocal borrowing with The Three Rivers Regional Library System. Mr. Reitz said he is securing an agreement with Citrus and Marion counties. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the reciprocal agreement with Three Rivers Regional Library System. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Stevens advised any commissioners with comments on the committees for 2003 assignments should contact Mr. Fred Moody.
ROAD MAINTENANCE
Mr. Justin Watson presented the following requests for maintenance on a one (1) time basis:
NE 95th Avenue and NE 90th Street located in University Estates, two (2) hours of grading for an estimated cost of $134.00, beginning at NE 99th Avenue and ending at NE 80th Street.
Comm. Parker moved to approve the maintenance on a one (1) time basis. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
NE 158th Avenue located in Williston Highlands Unit 11 for one (1) load of rock and one (1) hour of grading for an estimated cost of $367.00 beginning at NE 46th Street and ending at SR 27.
Comm. Yearty moved to approve the maintenance on a one (1) time basis. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Comm. Rooks moved to discuss a non-agenda item concerning NE 46th Street in Williston Highlands Unit 11 for trimming and grading. Comm. Yearty seconded. Comm. Rooks, Comm. Parker, Chairman Stevens, Comm. Yearty voted YES, Comm. Bell voted NO, MOTION FAILED, not unanimous.
ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT
Mr. Watson said the 1982 International bucket truck currently in use was inspected by American Testing Company and was red tagged for safety. Mr. Watson said it would cost at the lowest estimate $25,000.00 to $30,000.00 if there is not any valve or hydraulic damage to make repairs and the truck only has an estimated life span remaining of four (4) years. Mr. Watson said authorization was requested to advertise for Invitation of Bids.
Mr. Kelly Jerrels explained the bucket truck was purchased used from Florida Power Corporation and the history of the bucket trucks are tracked for safety reporting.
Comm. Parker moved to advertise for bids with the option for a trade in and without the trade in. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Watson said the soil stabilizer currently being used is not sufficient for the road work being performed and they have secured three (3) quotes for a replacement. Mr. Watson explained this is a limited equipment market and the purchase of a stabilizer with an 18" quick change rotor will allow more efficient and cost effective road stabilization. Mr. Watson said quotes were obtained as follows:
- 2001 Caterpillar SS250B - appx. 600 hours, equipped with 18" quick change rotor, power train warranty until 11/16/04, Ring Power Oil Sampling required and located in Jacksonville, Florida for $185,000.00.
- 1999 Caterpillar SS250B - appx. 900 hours, as is warranty, located in Thompson, Alabama for $223,000.00
- 1997 Caterpillar SS250B - appx. 200 hours on meter, 15" quick change rotor, as is warranty, located in Portland Oregon for $185,000.00.
Comm. Parker said this is a seriously need piece of equipment and will save tax payer dollars in the long run and will assist in prolonging the life of the road bases. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the lowest quote for the 2001 Caterpillar SS250B located in Jacksonville for $185,000.00. Comm. Bell seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
EQUIPMENT
Mr. Benny Jerrels presented a request to purchase a semi truck to haul garbage from the landfill to the New River Transfer Station. Mr. Jerrels said the landfill is currently operating with two (2) trucks and that is not sufficient. Mr. Jerrels explained the problems that would arise if one of the trucks was inoperable. Mr. Jerrels said a quote had been obtained and had contacted Alachua County and they were in the process of obtaining a truck through the state bid process and that appeared to be the most economical option.
Comm. Yearty said the transporting of the garbage to the transfer station is saving the county money by not having to maintain the existing landfill with the disposal of garbage. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the purchase through the state bid program. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
COMMUNICATIONS
Sheriff Smith said the communications for the public safety is inadequate for Law Enforcement, Fire and Emergency Medical Services and is placing personnel in jeopardy. Sheriff Smith explained there is new technology available to improve the communications system.
Mr. Tom McFarland explained receiver sites and a transmitter site using a cellular technology will allow for all areas of the county to be covered. Mr. McFarland said the equipment may be purchased at wholesale costs and he would be able to do handle the majority of the assembly with Baker Communications providing the expertise and the assistance in dish installations. Mr. McFarland explained the equipment would be on state bid and also master receivers that have never been used can be purchased from a salvage dealer and the estimated total cost would be $166,000.00.
Mr. Shipp said any item over $5,000.00 would be subject to the bid process.
Mr. McFarland explained there would possibly be only one piece of equipment that would exceed $5,000.00
Comm. Yearty said an exception could be made on the bid policy due to the uniqueness of the situation in buying small components.
Mr. Greg Beauchamp recommended explained the situation to the auditor and obtaining their approval.
Mr. McFarland said the main tower would be located on the KTK radio tower with a back up installed in Bronson.
Comm. Bell said minimum and maximum specifications should be prepared and obtain three (3) quotes for the equipment and installation.
Mayor Risher of Inglis said it was appreciated that Sheriff Smith had found a communications system that would improve communications for the Inglis Police Department.
Comm. Bell moved to approve the concept upon specifications being submitted and bid out. Comm. Yearty seconded.
Chairman Stevens said the recommended communication system had been reviewed in depth and it would be difficult to find a lower price. Chairman Stevens said Baker Communications handles the majority of the communications work for the local governments.
Mr. McFarland explained assistance will be needed only for the installation of the receivers.
Comm. Yearty said the information should be provided within a two (2) week period without any further delay and Comm. Rooks, Comm. Parker, Comm. Bell and Comm. Yearty voted YES, Chairman Stevens voted NO and the MOTION CARRIED.
TAX ROLL
Mr. Beauchamp presented a letter dated January 15, 2003 from Susan Haines, Deputy Clerk concerning a list of escheated lands to the county. Mr. Beauchamp explained one parcel had been purchased from the Tax Collector's office while the deed conveying the property to the county was being prepared and recorded. Mr. Beauchamp explained the Clerk's Office had contacted him concerning the sale and it was allowed to go through to the individual.
Mrs. Susan Haines said the next public auction for escheated lands was being planned to be held the day prior to Mrs. Linda Fugate's tax certificate sale in May, 2003.
RESOLUTIONS
Mr. Beauchamp said the amount entered into the resolution for reimbursement for a bond issue does not require the bond to be the amount entered, however, it cannot exceed that amount and recommended using a figure that would be sufficient for the bond issue.
Mr. Moody said Architect Design will have a report completed within the next 45 to 60 days.
Comm. Yearty explained a realistic amount should be used for the resolution and it is important to have it to allow for the reimbursement of expenses already accruing. Comm. Yearty moved to adopt the reimbursement resolution using a figure of $10,000,000.00 (ten million dollars). Comm. Rooks seconded. Comm. Bell said a realistic figure should be used for the resolution.
Mr. Beauchamp explained the expansion of the jail is already approximately six to seven million dollars and if any other capital projects are included in the bond issue the resolution needs to cover that amount as it cannot exceed the amount in the resolution.
Comm. Rooks, Comm. Parker, Chairman Stevens and Comm. Yearty voted YES, Comm. Bell voted NO and the MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Mr. Beauchamp explained a recent Supreme Court decision does not allow emergency medical services to be funded through a special assessment. Mr. Beauchamp said an ordinance could be created to have an emergency medical services tax to replace the assessment. Mr. Beauchamp a source of funding is needed for the emergency medical services in order to be able to operate.
Mr. Ship said the budget is approximately 1.6 million dollars.
Mr. Beauchamp said additional information would be forthcoming from the Florida Association of Counties and other associations and would recommend obtaining that information and then consider adopting an ordinance revoking the special assessment and impose a tax for emergency medical services. Mr. Beauchamp explained he would provide additional information at the next regular meeting.
LICENSES AND PERMITS
Comm. Bell recommended reviewing the fee schedule for special events as it appears the fee for private events on private property at $150.00 was excessive.
Chairman Stevens explained not all special events need to have Board approval and recommended the policy allow for approval unless it is questionable and then it would be submitted for Board approval.
Mr. Rob Corbitt said some events require traffic control, equestrian control, an ambulance on site and volunteer fire department services.
Comm. Bell recommended a staff review of the policy as it appeared there was unnecessary and restrictive verbiage and thinks it should be a more equitable fee.
Mrs. Sandy Fink said there should not be an objection to paying a fee if county services are needed if it is equitable.
Mrs. Renate Cannon said the ordinance ought to remain as written as the fee is part of a public event and the lease of private property is a business cost.
FESTIVAL
Comm. Yearty explained the Withlacoochee Bluegrass Festival has been assessed a $50.00 fee for their events and recommended continuing with this fee and allow them to proceed. Comm. Yearty said they have always complied with requirements and the event requires long-range planning. Comm. Yearty said they have always paid for safety services provided by law enforcement, fire and ambulance. Comm. Yearty moved to approve the permit for the Withlacoochee Bluegrass Festival with the fee of $50.00 and the requirements they have been required to comply with for past events. Comm. Rooks seconded and the MOTION CARRIED.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairman Stevens explained his NO vote on the communications indicating he did not think the issue should have been delayed.
COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Stevens called for any questions or comments on the committee assignments.
Mr. Moody said the workshop on the clamming industry will be held Thursday, January 23, 2003 at 9:00 a.m..
Mr. Moody said the evaluation training for department heads will be held January 22, 2003 at the Mosquito Control conference room.
THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ADJOURNED.
Danny Stevens, Board Chairman
ATTEST:
Danny J. Shipp, Clerk of Court