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BCC Minutes 09/25/1989 B Naples, Florida, September 25, 1989 LET IT BE REMEMBERED, that the Board of County Comm~seioners ~n and for the County of Collier, and also acting as the Board cf Zoning Appeals and as the governing board(s) of such special districts as have been created according to law and having conducted business herein, met on this date at 7:00 P.M. in FINAL BUDGET SESSION In Building "F" of the Government Complex, East Naples, Florida° with the following members present: CHAIRMAN: VICE-CHAIRMAN: Burr L. Saunders Max A. Hasse, Jr. Richard S. Shanahan Michael j. Volpe Anne Ooodntght ALSO PRESENT: Ellis Hoffman and Anna//ese Kraft, Deputy Clerks; Neil Dorrill, County Manager; Ron McLemore, Assistant County Manager; Tom Oll]ff, Assistant to the County Manager; Kenneth Cuyler, County Attorney; Sheriff Don Hunter; Ga~l Addison, Chief of Admin~strat~on, Sheriff's Off,ce; Lot! Zalka, Budget Director; Robert Schm~dt, Jennifer Pike, and Mike Smykowskl, Budget Analysts; Jay Reardon, Emergency Services Administrator; Herb Luntz, Communications/Public Affairs Director; and Deputy Tom Storrar, Sheriff's Office Page SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 Legal notice having been published in the Naples Daily News on September 17, 1989, as evidenced by Affidavit of Publication filed with the Clerk, public hearing was opened to consider the 1989-90 Proposed Budget. Comntm from the Co~"imaton Commissioner Saunders stated that he would like to repeat one Item which was discussed last week: a proposed resolution support_ng ]egtslat~,n that i$ now pending tn Ta]lahassee to piece a cap on Increases tn assessed evaluations of properties. He advised that the purpose of this action would be to prevent in the future, situations where people find themselves having their assessments Increased by 200%-300%. He explained that he believes that one of the reasons that there has been a tremendous amount of public Input relating to the budget this year. is that assessments have gone up 200~-300~ tn some areas, and it is Important to prevent that from happening tn the future. Co~isstoner 8aunders moved, seconded by Co,-'-,laaloner O~lght, to ~pport lsgtmlation which ia ~)endtng In ?alla~mee, to ~l&¢~ · limit on incrsamem tn &aeams~nts of ;ro%~rtlam. Commissioner Saunders stated that if there is to be an increase in the budget revenues, the burden wll! be spread amongst ail property owners, as opposed to a small segment of the community bearing the brunt of increases in taxes. Commissioner Hasse questioned whether this action will ~mpact ad valorem taxes, in general7 County Manager Dorrll! replied that he does not see any immediate impact, noting that he believes this ~s a more appropriate measure of County related spending. Commissioner Vo]pe stated that he is supportive of some type of limitation on percentage increases in the assessed valuations, but questioned ]f there is any distinction between residences that consti- tute homestead as opposed to vacant properties? Commissioner Saunders Indicated that his understanding ts that this would apply to all properties, but if there ts a piece of pro- Page 2 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 perry that is improved as of January 1st of a particular year, that would be assessed at market value, which means that there were would be an increase over the assessment of the prior year that would not be subject to a cap, and it would reflect the fact that the property had been improved. Mr. Clarence Perry advised that he is one of the volunt&.e,a who is attempting to have the proposed cap placed on the ballot. He indi- cated that this is a state-wide petition, noting that it applies to homestsad property only: a 3% cap per year on the assessed value of homestead property, and when this property is sold, the new buyer will pay, the first year, a tax based on the true market value, and each year thereafter, he will be locked into that 3%. He stated that this cap does not apply to commercial property. Mr. 3oseph Christy, resident of Marco Island, stated that unless something Is done to the millage rate, this is a waste of time and effort. Commissioner Saunders advised that the only way to get a handle on the increased as ~essments, is to encourage the State Legislature to give the County some control. In answer to Commissioner Hasse, Commissioner Saunders explained that if the motion carries, he believes it would be appropriate for County Attorney Cuy/er to prepare the resolution within the next week for the Commission,s review and adoption at next Tuesday's re~n~lar Board Meeting, and to also provide a copy of the appropriate Legislation. Upon call for the question, the motion carried unantmo~mly. Commissioner Saunders reported that another item which was discussed at the first budget hearing, was the question of effic~ency reviews. He noted that there has been an cttempt in the past to suggest that a review be made of each department wJthin County govern- ment to ensure that taxpayers, dollars are beinG spent in the most efficient manner. He stated that this is in no way a reflection of any dissatisfaction with the operation of County government, or the (7; Page 3 SEPTENBER 25, 1989 County Nanager's operation, but merely an effort to see t~ there are areas where taxpayers, dollars could be saved, and to convince the pub/fc that thls Commission is taking every possible step to ~ake sure that their dollars are being used in the most efficient manner. He indicated that the worst thing that could possibly happen, would be that some money could be saved. He suggested that the Board of County Commissioners approve in concept, a department by department effi- ciency review, and that the people who will be involved with whatever m~uhan~m,, is developed, report directly to the Board of Cour~ty Commissioners with an effort to save money, wherever pass,bis. He noted that if the Commission supports this concept, he is requesting that he be given the authority to put together a program that will accomplish what he feels is appropriate and present same to the Board for approval. C°enims~oner maunders moved, seconded by Couismioner Shanahan, that the Chairman be authorized to coordinate and present to the Con~ismion for review, a program for department by department effA- cienc-f reviews, in an effort to save taxpayers, dollars, whmrevar possible. Commissioner Goodnigh[ indicated that her concern is that the Commission will be second guessing the County Manager, and he is responsible to the Commission. She explained that if the Manager can- not see to it to trim his budget in every way possible, and to have efficiency and productivity in each department, then the Board of County Commissioners needs to get rid of him. She noted that she does not believe that tl.e County should hire a firm to conduct a study in each department, since this will result in spending more money. Commissioner Saunders stated that the Commission second gllesses the Manager every week at each Board Meetlng. He indicated that the Commissioners have been elected as the Board of Directors of Collier County to make sure that appropriate services are delivered to the ~axpayers of the County, and that their money is being spent tn the most efficient manner. He mentioned the fact that over 300 people Page 4 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 attended the first budget hearing, which Indicates concerns public that the County is not spending their money wisely. Commissioner Shanahan explained that his second to the motion was not done to second guess the Manager and Staff, but rather to respond to the people since there has been a clear expression that the County is spending too much money. He noted that in his mind, by giving the people of Collier County an audit and efficiency review does not ~econd guess the Manager. Cc. mml?uloner Hasse stated that he is on the same wave length as Commissioner Goodnight on this subject. He indicated that County Manager Dorrlll has always been responsive to any requests to cut his budget. He noted that if the Commission does not agree with what Mr. Dorri]] ts doing, he should be instructed to make additional cuts in the budget. Commissioner Volpe explained that this is an advertised public hearing, and he believes that this discussion is outside the context of why the citizens of Collier County are present this evening. He questioned whet)er something has been learned during the budget pro- cess which suggests that County government is not operating effi- ciently7 Commissioner Hasse stated that he does not find fault with Commissioner Saunders' suggestion for an efficiency review, but he believes that it would be appropriate for the Commission to hold a workshop, so that ali avenues can be explored. He noted that he does not feel that this evening's meeting is the appropriate time to discuss the issue. Mr. Tony Giordano stated that Commissioner Volpe is 100~ correct, since the public does not wish to hire another agency to look into something that someone else Is spending. County Manager Dorrlll advised that everyone present is in favor of reduced costs in government, but this government does have a pro- fessional Commission and a Manager form of government which means that the Commission shall not meddle or be in Involved tn the admtnistra- Page 5 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 tton or operation of the County. He Indicated that he has the only on-going cost reduction program of any local government in the com- munity, and noted three recent examples within the last thirty days: l. The Se]f-Insured Group Medical Program 2. The elimination of the County Manager's survey crews 3. Contracting with a private company to perform the fleet main- tenance on County vehicles He explained that $1,685,O00 has been saved during the last three days over what would have been saved In the budget, otherwise. He Indicated that there is the proven ability to reduce costs, eliminate the potential for empire, use private companies when they prove they are more efficient than County government. He reported that he has consistently met the directives of the Commission throughout the summer, and at times they were very confusing. He called attention to the fact that the County Manager only spends 33¢ on every dollar of taxes raised for the Board of County Commissioners, and suggested that If cost reduction programs are t.. be reviewed, there is 67¢ spent by someone else. He stated that he ts more than willing to explore with the Commission, any volunteer, or professional group, a further enhan- cement of his cost efficiency program. Commissioner Volpe suggested that if this Issue is to be workshopped, tNere should be a specific proposal outlining how the performance auditing will be done, what the expense will be, which departments will be reviewed, and what ]s expected to be achieved. Mr. John Keschel suggested that the Commission be open with the public. He Indicated that his opinion that Collier County had a good, honest, open government, has changed during the past few years. He noted that he is in favor of taxes, so that there Is good government, and he is in favor of the Sheriff,s budget, since this Department ts one of the most critical in Collier County. Upon call for the question, the morton failed 2/3 (Contlltonars Voile, Hesse, and Goodntght opposed}. Commissioner Hasse suggested that County Manager Dorrtll establish a time for a workshop during the next month. Page 6 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 Dl~.cu~alon of proposed Tax Incre--~, to Fu~,d Budget Director Zalka explained that the proposed tax increase to fund the budget Is an aggregate tax Increase of 7.9~ which ts a millage rate of 5.0739 mtlls compared to lsst year's rollback rate of 4.7014 mills. She advised that this ts a 7.4~ increase. She reported that the purpose of the tax Increase is to maintain concurrence with the Growth Management Plan, to focus on environmental concerns, and to approve services and efficiency. She stated that the Tentative Budget began wlth ~.4043 mills on the aggregate, a 15~ Increase; and, at the first public hearing It w~s reduced to an 11.5~ Increase, and now a reduction of m 7.9~ ts proposed. Mr. A. D. ~tttemore stated that tn listening to the discussion thus far, It appears that this year Is history. He Indicated that this is the very budget that all are concerned about. He noted that he ts not complaining about his taxes, but that he ts present as a citizen questioning the budget that Is before the Commission for approval tonight. He explained that he does not understand that the County is proposing to spend $58 million more than it spent last year, and this translates to an Increase of 28~. He noted that the budget suggests that the average County employee may receive a salary increase of 7.3~, and the budget Increase as proposed, ts 4 times that amount; 3 times the yield on an average corpo{.ate bond; and 2 times the yield, after taxes on a good stock mutual fund. He questioned where the County will be getting the $58 million? He Indicated that he believes that $26 million will be coming from sales taxes, gas taxes, services fees and impact fees, etc.; $25 million ts coming from borrowed funds; and $7 million ts coming from property taxes. He noted that 113~ more ts being spent on borrowing this year than was spent last year. He questioned whether growth pays for growth Collier County? He replied that he does not believe it does. He indicated that if there ts new construction, there are more people, and more physical needs. He stated that if there ts Increased value, there are more dollars, noting that those Increased dollars are not Page ? '9'70 SEPTEMBER 2S. ~989 growth, but merely inflation. He explained that there are too many people looking for too few pieces of choice property in Collier County, and therefore, the price goes up. He reported that the tax base ts not based on people who actually sold their homes for that increased value. He advised that he believes that Staff has done a terrible Job of coamunlcating to the public what Is being proposed tn the budget. Commlsstc~ner Saunders stated that taxes are an equation Involving assesbed v&lue, and the millage rate. He noted that if one Is capped, and the other is Increased, the same amount of tax dollars can be raised. He explained that the purpose of his motion was to prevent someone who Is living tn a house tn the coastal area from having a 300~ increase in taxes, and someone who Is living inland a O~ increase. Clerk Eraft replaced D~put¥ Clark Hoffm~n The following speakers spoke in opposition to the assessments and final budget: Nick Carslllo Ira Evans Joe Christy Peter Kramer George Keller Their reasons were: the budget has not protected the taxpayer's interest, assessments yielded a huge amount of money, cuts made are not large enough to make a difference in the taxpayer's bill, a 20~ Increase for the past 5 years is not acceptable, the Board of County Commissioners should advise the County Manager what he can spend, a cap on spending is necessary, budget spending is out of control, the Sheriff's budget is too large, the Sheriff should be apprehending drug dealers, not unlocking cars, the school budget and quality of schools poor, management of County inefficient, cost of operation and amount of personnel should be addressed, capital project budget is too high with too many people in departments, Parks & Recreation and Sheriff,s budget should be streamlined, reserve for contingencies is too high, Page 8 SEPTEMBER 2=, 19~9 the County does not borrow money in a prudent fashion, concern about mil/age rates and County-wide unincorporated areas, growth has not paid for growth, and impact fees must be increased. County Manager Dorrl]l explained that the County currently has 2 park rangers and a supervisor. He noted that the park ranger for each of the 5 community parks would provide security tn the opening and closing of parks and County-related facllitles. He Indicated that if these positions are not filled, the County will have to continue paying ~uertime to the Parks and Recreation staff and ask the Sheriff to provide beach and boat ramp security. He noted that there is an opportunity to re-address these issues. In response to Commissioner Volpe, Assistant County Manager McLemore explained that the County,s goal is to retire the debt at the first call available, which ts In the 7th year, eliminating a 20 year call would save about 2 mi/lion dollars. He noted that the intent is to accumulate cash, and pay the debt off in the 7th year. He stated that the cash reserve built, has to be used within that fund. In response to Commissioner Vo]pe, Mr. Dorr~]l explained that the County cannot use monies to borrow from itself because funds cannot be co-mingled for transportation related expenditures. Sheriff Hunter indicated that the people of Marco Island are con- cerned about the situations and conditions on the beach, i.e. harassment of beachgoers, vendors on the beach, volleyball, etc. He stated that people want more law enforcement officers, but funds are necessary to put them in place. He indicated that 2 deputies are scheduled for beach patrol, one in North Naples and one on Marco Island. Sheriff Hunter explained that the $1,500,000 tn the budget is not for morale, but is for a phased In budget salary adjustment from last year deferred from October, 1988 to January, 1989. He reported that a consultant,s study found that Collier County Sheriff Deputies were grossly underpaid compared to other law enforcement officers. He explained that the salary adjustments will have to be paid for the Page 9 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 entire year instead of three-quarters, which explains the difference in cost. He pointed out that the Sheriff has asked for the same ho/i- day and vacation plan as the County. Commissioner Saunders pointed out that increased revenues to the County from sales and gasoline are passed through and set by the State of Florida. He noted that Collier County does not want to be in a position where it cannot receive those tax dollars. He explained that Coll&~r Z~unty's water and sewer system has p/edged revenuu ~r bonds for construction, but the County is prohibited by /aw from doing anything that would prevent the County from raising rates to meet debt service. ese Del~uty Clerk Hell,an replaced Deputy Clerk Kraft at this ti~e *es Mr. Mark Strain, of Golden Gate Estates, stated that he realizes that Collier County is experiencing growth and inflation, which wall increase the costs to Collier County. He indicated that those costs can only be ~n~erpreted ~n more tax dollars. He noted that he does not like the tax increase, but he tried to prioritize the budget requests into the following: Life and safety of the citizens of Collier County; maintain a quality of life through growth management~ and, an improvement of services. He stated that in fo/lowing that line of thought, the Sheriff's budget is one of the first priorities to be considered. He requested that the Commission consider leaving the responsibility for the Sheriff's budget within the Sheriff, noting that he knows what Collier County needs. He explained that he feels to move this responsibility from the Sheriff to the Board of County Commissioners would be a mistake. Mr. Charlie Andrews, of Tall Pines, noted that he is present to defend the Sheriff's budget. He indicated that he does not believe that the Commission is hearing from the silent majority, who are satisfied with the Sheriff's budget. He stated that Sheriff Hunter has done everything in his power to get an idea of what Leve~s of Service are desired by the citizens of Collier County, noting that the people have not given him any direction; and workshops have been Page 10 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 held, with very little turn out. He mentioned that those that are involve! with the neighborhood watch programs are asking for more security. He stated that he ts asking the Commission not to request that the Sheriff reduce his budget. Mr. Arthur Barnes stated that the Commission was elected to was to represent the people of Collier County. He noted that Collier County residents do not want a tax Increase. Mr. Scott Sal]ey, of North Naples, indicated that he belleves that it would be a big mistake to cut the Sheriff's budget. He advised that he understands accounting and budgeting, since he works with this everyday, but noted that crime goes on 24 hours each day, and law enforcement is essential. He noted that there is a need for more investigators, Jails, and deputies. He explained that response time of 3-1/2 to 4 minutes tn a life or death situation means a lot. cited that he supports the Sheriff and his budget. Ms. Mary Cooper, of Marco Island, stated that she is concerned about the increase and the total amount of the budget, and implored the Commission to put themselves on a spending diet. Mr. Gll Mueller, resident of Marco Island, stated that he believes If the Commission settles for a 4% decrease in budget recFueets' it is totally unfair to the taxpayers. He noted that his home has been robbed, and three of his friends' homes have been robbed. He stated that for Sheriff Hunter to take 2 deputies from an Increasing crime area, such as Marco Island, with many unsolved burglaries, and paying 20% of the taxes, ts absolutely ludicrous. He stated that the Park Rangers are a valuable asset, and he would rather see the elimination of a few office personnel. Mr. Hugh Parsons, Naples resident, stated that Florida is based on land and real estate transactions, and that is the extreme life blood tn Collier County. He indicated that he believes that the problem with the budget is related to growth, noting that when the population is increased from 20,000 to 40,000 persons, there is a problem, and when the population is increased from 100,000 to 2OO,O00, there is a Page 11 SEPTEMBER 25, lgSg mountalnoul problem. He suggested that the Commission make it dif- ficult and press for less development tn Collier County, and allow the growth rate to be worked up very slowly. He noted that monies are provided for services that should have been supplied by th~ develo- pers. Ms. Kathy Leverick of 4340 Normandy Drive, complimented Commissioner Saunders on his suggestion of reviewing each County department, noting that she feels It ~s the responsibility of the Commtdsion to make sure that the citizens of Collier County are getting the most for their dollars in all departments of County government. She noted that she believes that a public workshop ia the Ideal way to communicate. She stated that taxes can be raised every year, but without top notch law enforcement, the residents protection is at a minimum, therefore, it is necessary that the Sheriff be able to obtain the manpower that he needs. Mr. Jim McIntyre, of Isles of Capri, stated that he has not yet seen a playground put up In the ten years that he has lived there; his 9 year old child attends school at a 20 year old facility, and when she reaches grade 5, she will be bussed an hour each way: the school bus has no air conditioning nor seat belts. He noted that he has paid increases in his taxes for the past 10 years, and it scares him to think that in another 5-10 years he may loose his home because hls taxes may be doubled. Mrs. Mari]yn Maltnowskt, of Bryant Avenue, explained that she sup- ports the Sheriff's budget. She advised that at least 6 out of 7 days per week, she sees a drug deal go down in her neighborhood, and noted that most of the persons involved are teenagers. She stated that the Sheriff cannot possibly rid Collier County of the drug related activi- ties that are going on. She indicated that she has a lovely home on a little lake, but her property value is going down: what should be a $90,000-$100,000 home, will probably be sold for $60,000, if the Sheriff does not get his budget and is not able to protect her area anymore than he can now. She suggested that if the bu4~et needs to be Page SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 cut, that those cuts should not involve the Sheriff's Office. Mr. Jim McGrath, City of Nap]es resident, suggested that the Commission be smart about what it is doing, and think about Infrastructure. He stated that growth Is creating problems, and before a developer can begin a project, he should be required to build and pay for the roads, schools, fire department facilities, etc., if they are needed. Mr;. Fern Attchtson, of Olde Naples, stated that she supports Commissioner Saunders' suggestion for an efficiency study. She stated that there needs to be some liaison who Is accountable to the people, and explain the budget process tn a more comprehensive manner, and not tn complex terms. Mr. Sandy Scatena, City of Nap]es resident, stated that all per- sons tn attendance at the budget hearings have witnessed what growth has done to their taxes, and many of them will not be able to continue living In this area. He explained that he has come to the conclusion that there doesn't seem too much that can be done about the Increase in property taxes for the Fiscal Year 1989-90, but much can be done in the coming budget year: 1. Strong consideration should be given to Instituting higher Impact fees: Growth should pay for growth. 2. Each department in County Government must be subject to an efficient review regarding the current and future increases In the budget. Mr. Scatena stated that all budgets should be scrutinized, and monies allotted only to those projects that are absolutely necessary. He advised that waste must be eliminated tn County government. He Indicated that property taxes must have a cap. Commissioner Saunders advised that an ordinance will be forth- coming within the next thirty days, which will double Impact fees. ****eD~$m%~f Clerk Kraft replaced Deputy Clerk Hoffmmn at this Mr. Richard S. Laymon, a former Director of Data Processin~ for Collier County, expressed serious concerns about evidence of official Page SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 misconduct relating directly and indirectly to this budget. He stated that he is highly qualified to report on the shady deals that he observed and was compelled to participate tn. He explained ~hat, according to Mr. Dorr~ll, his role is better defined as whistle blower, regarding budget proposals. He indicated that the first time he spoke was the ftrst public Indication that two popular and powerful elected officials may have lied to the Board of County Commissioners and the taxpayers. He reported that there may have been highly unethical shananigans behind the scenes w~th the taxpayer,s money doled out tn this budget approval process. He noted that he had spo- ken with Commissioner Shanahan, two other County Commissioners and County Manager Dorrlll. He stated that the County Manager,s office has been as cooperative as possible under the circumstances. He explained that he had provided the County with a list of 10 skeleton closets to be opened and volunteered to discuss these items. He stated that the Clerk's new finance system ts closer to $1,000,000 than the numbers the Board of County Commissioners and the public have been led to believe. He stated that the Election Supervisor and the Clerk have spent many tax dollars to Justify actions tn defaming him and his business. He emphasized that the Clerk and the Election Supervisor are elected officials and they should be accountable to the taxpayers, rather than hammer the County Manager, Sheriff, and the Tax Appratse~. for the responsibility of higher taxes. He noted that the Election Supervisor made $60,000 in budget cuts when he blew the whistle, and questioned how many the Clerk quietly slipped through. Commissioner Saunders asked County Manager Dorrlll if he had wet with Mr. Laymon, and Mr. Dorrtll Indicated that he had. Mr. Dorrlll reported that he and Mr. Laymon discussed a $150,000 loan that was not repaid to the general fund and a matter relating to how County Cow- ~alsston budgets are btlled and the allegation that the County Cow- missioners are paying a proportionately higher share tn subsidizing some of the costs of other constitutional officers. Commissioner Saunders requested that Mr. Dorrlll meet with Mr. Page 14 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 Laymon to discuss the other 8 Items. Mr. Laymon noted that he had met with the State Attorr~ey's Office and will be meeting with th~m again. Commissioner Saunders suggested that Mr. Laymon be careful tn his choice of terms, i.e. official misconduct, shady deals etc., and indi- cated that he would like to meet with Mr. Laymon to discuss his al/e- gattons and make certain that they are Invest/gated. Commissioner Volpe and Commissioner Hasse commented that if suspi- cion exists, It should be investigated. Commissioner Volpe commented that Mr. Laymon's statement that he was compelled to participate tn these shananlgans and the fact that these matters have only been brought to light since he left the County are of concern to him. Mr. Laymon stated that his decision to resign was made In the same time frame as when the shananigans occurred. It was the consensus of the Board of County Commissioners that County Manager Dorrtll meet with Mr. Laymon to discuss the other 8 items. ssza~,F~, s BUD~ZT Mr. James K. Kornse¥ expressed support for Sheriff Hunter's budget and reported the crime problem the United States faces. He stated that he would ltke to see the Sheriff get all the assistance he needs. Sheriff Hunter stated that he appreciated the opportunity to speak with Commissioner Vo]pe and the Naples Dally News. He stated that he appreciates Commissioner Volpe's questions and efforts to understand the Sheriff's budget. He noted that it Is critical that the people of Collier County understand that he does not look at the population or crime rate only. He emphasized that he looks at the calls for ser- vices and will explain why there is a 100~ increase tn crime tn the last § years. He explained that he will withdraw the lockout service to citizens, if requested to. He noted that he has had 14 workshops in the County regarding his budget, or any topic regarding law enfor- cement. He reported that Lee County has many major metropolitan po]ice departments, i.e. Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Santbel, Lee County Port Authority, U. S. Customs, Coast Guard, etc. while 'the Sheriff of Page 15 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 Collier County is responsible for all of Collier County. He explained that the Sheriff ts responsible for protecting everyone tn tht~ County on a given day at a given hour and that includes new residents, seaso- nal tourists, part time residents, visitors and commercial businesses. He noted that the new hOUSing in Collier County Is referred to as targets of opportunity for burglars and the Sheriff is responsible for their protection. He emphasized that the most serious crimes murder, aggravated assault, rape, robbery and motor vehicle theft ftgllres do not lnclude child molestation, white collar crime and computer crime that has risen 76%. He pointed out in 1984 the Board's financial decision to change budget procedures to include Workers Compensation Insurance premiums ref]ected a cost of $201,956, and staffing the new Jail facility increased the Inmate capacity to 301, reflecting an increase of $1,007,457 for the additional 56 positions to maintain custody over the inmates, totalling 1.2 million dollars over the pre- vlous year's budget. He stated that the 1985 annualized cost of 56 correctional officers hired for a partial year cost $33§,000, and 21 additional persons brought the budget to $700,000. He stated that utilities were included that year resulting In a $662,000 increase for a total of 1.3 million dollars over the prtor year. He pointed out that In 1986 law enforcement officers received for the first time overtime pay and that totalled $791,000 and tn 1987, 21 Jail deputies were added to manage the Jail at a cost of $483,000, the Street Narcotics Task Force was formed at a cost of $789,000 and that year the total was 1.1 million dollars. He explained that persons arrested for narcotics violations are up 31% over 1987, cocaine purchased and seized is up 2,228%, crack purchased and seized is up 87~ and currency seized is up 358% and vehicles seized ts up 33%. Commissioner Volpe Indicated that the former Sheriff was able to refund monies in that period of time. Sheriff Hunter explained that In 1988 certified Jail deputies were brought to pay parity and community service deputies we£e transferred from Confiscated Trust to the General Fund and in 1989 the Sheriff is Page SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 asking that the County's salary study, adopted In 1988, be phased In in January 1989 instead of October 1988 to save tax dollars. He noted that the capacity of the Jail was Increased by double bunking, requiring additional supervision per Department of Corrections stan- dards. He noted that the new building was 18 months late tn comple- tion and some of the hiving of the 56 people was delayed because they could not get Into the academies, and the Sheriff moved into a new building. He noted that by law the Sheriff can take funds and convert to needs, but Sheriff Rogers returned the dollars to the County. A discussion followed about budget increases. Sheriff Hunter emphasized that the Sheriff was asked to phase In the budget increases for the personal services and salaries which created a 10% increase in the budget. He noted that nothing else changed, no additional cost for food or medical for the inmates, operating the building for uti/t- ties, lighting for the parking costs are built in and he is asking for an 11.9% increase over that to maintain the growth characteristics of this county. He stated that the budget process has set this up as an adversary sltuatlon unnecessarily. He explained that the Sheriff's office ts only 1/gth of the entire sd valorem millage, the School Board is 58% of the property tax bill and of the remaining 42%, the Sheriff's budget is only 10% and the Sheriff is being asked to cut his budget to 6%, while the County agencies are being asked to cut 1.5%. He stated that the Sheriff's office is funded by ad valorem taxes only, while the County Manager and County Commission can draw from all sources of revenue. He recommended strongly that in future budget years, the Sheriff's budget be granted the ability to take dollars that they helped generate as permitted by law. He emphasized that this would take them out of the situation of being the culprit In the tax Increase. He noted that holding the Sheriff's deputies to a 5% cap on salary increases seems unreasonable, while 90% of the County :< .... u-~'s staff will r'ecelve between 7 1/2% and 10%, and a better savings plan would be to reduce the County's Increases to §~. He (~¢ Page 17 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 noted that the County pays for performance and the Sheriff has not Identified an instrument objective enough to be utilized for pay for performance. Sheriff Hunter explained that in attempting to meet the 1.5 million dollar reduction mandated by the Board of County Commissioners, it will be necessary to reduce staffing requested by 29 positions or to one half of his original budget. He indicated that this presentation has been made in all of his workshops. He noted that in order to meet calls for service and 82% of that is personal services, and a vehicle and fuel, a shotgun, light, emergency vehicle response all cost money. He indicated that he is trying to budget what is necessary for Marco Island. He stated that Marco Island enjoys the best ava/lability of law enforcement services in Collier County, other than Everglades City. He noted that they have 52% of availability of manpower for calls of service and every other area in Collier County will fall below acceptable levels, some going to 19% in Immokalee and East Naples. He noted that the Board of County Commissioners is giving him an impossible task by telling him to cut his budget by 1.5 million dollars. He emphasized that the people of Collier County do not want their services cut. Sheriff Hunter reported that he will cut 9 positions restoring the law enforcement officers back to the positions as before, i.e. Marco Island will get 2, District l, North Naples will get 2 deputies, District 3 will get 3 deputies as they have unique crime problems, District 8, Immokalee, will get 1 additional deputy, the FLEX unit of 8 units will be restored, 4 positions for the selective enhanced traf- fic enforcement program on 951, 3 deputies with dogs for the canine unit, equalling 2 certified deputies and they are a cost saving effi- ciency measure, crfme vs. persons investigator in Immokalee, crime vs. property investigator in Immokalee, Lieutenant for the accreditation program, an internal and external auditing program that holds the agency up to national standards of law enforcement, 1 professional responsibility lieutenant responsible, a person only for quality control on the streets, a witness coordinator to save over-time Page 18 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 dollars expended by deputies waiting to go to Court, a rangemaster for inspection of all agency issued weapons, relocation of the range from the current landfill full of methane gas, qualify people before they go out on the street and use their firearms, District 8, 1 community service aid. In response to Commissioner Hasse, Sheriff Hunter explained that District ! ts North Naples to Seagate and over to Sorrento Gardens, District 2 ts Golden Gate and Golden Gate Estates, District 3 is East Naples, Including the C~ty of Nap/es, D~strict 6 is Marco Is/and, District 7 is Everglades City with Chokoloskee, Cope/and, Carnestown and District 8 is Immokalee. He stated that 2 community service aids are scheduled for Golden Gate, 1 for District 8, and ! for Marco Island tn addition to 2 fully certified deputies. He reported that school crossing guards are scheduled, as well as a switchboard operator for the Enhanced 9-1-1, a computer operator, a mechanic trainee, clerk typist for witness management, secretary for Immoka]ee and CID, secretary for Naples CID, records clerk, for both midnight and days, crime analyst, senior budget analyst, clerk typist, senior secretary, legal secretary, fugitive warrants supervisor, clerk typist for IJC, and office assistant. He noted that the remainder of the original 58 positions are eliminated and some of the new pos~tions are phased in and that totals a $532,000 reduction in the original $31,4§4,400 budget. Sheriff Hunter reported that he would llke the Board of County Commissioners to take their district and identify what they want removed. Commissioner Volpe commented that ks an interesting approach to take and noted that it is the Sheriff's responsibility to provide /aw enforcement. He reported that the Sheriff has the mechanism to identify needs, and this is not the approach the Board of County Commissioners is looking for. Sheriff Hunter stated that he has Justified his budget. Mr. Whittemore stated that neither he nor the Board of County Commissioners can tell Sheriff Hunter how to do his Job, but the cuts have to be made. Sheriff Hunter ~ndicated that all he is trying to do Page 19 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 is maintain the same level of service with increased cost of service and population and construction. Mr. Whittemore responded that he does not propose to tel1 the Sheriff where to spend the money, but he can say that there is not enough money and the cuts have to be made. Sheriff Hunter reiterated that he took the brunt of the cuts and he asking the Board of County Commissioners to look at the budget, make some tough decisions as to where the limited resources go or cut the decisions out. Ms. Altchison questioned why prisoners cannot work for the tax- payers? Sheriff Hunter responded that according to the State of Florida prIsoners cannot work prior to trial. He emphasized that after their conviction they do work, but it is a small percentage of the Jail population. ese D~lty Clerk Hoff~an replaced Deputy Clerk Kraft at Commissioner Volpe noted that 8 new positions have been created during the past budget year, and questioned whether this is a normal procedure? Sheriff Hunter advised that customarily during the past lO years, new positIons have been created during a budget year. He indi- cated that he does not anticipate creating any additional new posi- tions during this budget year. Commissioner Vo]pe stated that Collier County has approximately the same number of /aw enforcement personnel as most of the other counties in Florida, and questioned why it is more expensive for Collier County to maintain the same people per 1,000 In the unincor- porated area? Sheriff Hunter noted that comparisons cannot be made to the unincorporated area only; comparisons would have to be made, i.e., Collier County Sheriff's Office with the Volushia County Sheriff's Office, with the Seminole County Sheriff's Office, and their entire responsibilities, and not Just the unincorporated area. Sheriff Hunter stated that people have talked with him about their desired Levels of Service, and indicated that they want more. He reported that during the peak season, the SWAT team, Sheriff, Under Sheriff, Chiefs, Captains, Lieutenants, Selective Traffic Enforcement Page 20 SEPTEMBER 2§, 1989 Program and K-Nine Units are moved around the County. He noted that during spring break this year, the students were kept off the streets on Marco Island, while they were drinking. He advised that it was reported that on one particular night, a lounge owner saw 25 cars parked tn the parking lot, because law enforcement was on the Island, suppressing that activity. He indicated that he is not asking that each District be staffed with "X" number of people because he is expecting some peak demand, and then the remainder of the year, they will be doing nothing. He requested that he be given the flexible units, so they can be in the various locations, as the need arises. He noted that Immokalee will have their picking season; Marco will be affected by spring break; North Naples will also experience spring break, the offshore races, and beer bashes, and these are things that affect everyone and the Levels of Service. Commissioner Saunders stated that the issue at hand is whether $532,000 will be cut from the Sheriff's original request, or does the Commission desire to cut $1 million from the Sheriff's budget? Commissioner Goodnight indicated that she supports the Sheriff's budget completely, with the $532,000 cuts that he has presented. Commissioner Shanahan stated that he would like to accommodate the Sheriff, but he also desires to accommodate the people of his District, and he would like to see the Sheriff's budget cut $1 million. Commissioner Volpe noted that he support~ the Sheriff's budget with the reduction of $I million. Commissioner Hasse indicated that he supports the Sheriff's budget with $1 million in cuts. Sheriff Hunter explained that under the $! million proposal the following positions will be eliminated: I Flex Deputy for Immokalee; 2 Flex Deputies for Marco Island, ! Community Service Aide for Marco Island; ! Community Service Aide for Golden Gate; 2 deputies for District 1; Accredidatlon Assistant; Crime Scene Technician; Lieutenant; 3 Investigators; 1 Records Clerk; and 2 Clerk Typists. Pago 2~ SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 He advised that case loads for the Investigators have gone from 134 to 202, which means they can't get around to all the cases. Mrs. Charlotte Westman stated that Collier County has had a tre- mendous amount of growth. She Indicated that she supports Sheriff Hunter's proposal of $532,000. She noted that the law enforcement officials of Collier County cannot be expected to do the same work for more people. Commissioner Hasse indicated that he is sill looking for ways to cut the budget, noting that he may be interested in taking something additional from the Manager's budget. Tape ,4 With regard to the 8 positions created during the budget year by Sherlff Hunter, Commissioner Goodnlght indicated that he has only been in office for 9 months, and this budget was actually that of Aubrey Rogers. She stated that the previous Sheriff had the option to take those positions out of his budget, and that the additional people will make his operation more efficient. COU~i'Y MANAGER'S BUDGET County Manager Dorrlll advised that he previously identified $400,000 in cuts. ? Cou~mmioner Hume ~oved, meconded ~ Co~s~o~r Vol~, to furt~r r~ce ~he ~ger's ~dget ~ $250,000. Comm~seloner Goodntght sta~ed ~ha~ her problem ~s that the Commission told the Manager to keep the millage at the same rate~ then he was told to cut the budget 15~: then he was asked to further cut the budget. She lndicated that she feels that this Board is very "wishy-washy',, and ~ ~s r~diculous to continually ask Staff to cut posit~ons when they have been told all year long the desires of ~he Commission relating to th~ Growth Managemen~ Plan, environmental issues, ~ater issues, and wellfield protection, noting tha~ the Manager has cut a number of positions required which relate to the Wellfield Protection Ordtmance. She asked wha~ is more tmportan~ in Collier County than saving its water? She advised tha~ she ~s against Page 22 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 cutting the budget any more than what it has been cut. Commissioner Shanahan explained that he is not convinced that there has been enough cut out of the budget. He noted that the Commission is supposed to make decisions based on what the people of Collier County are suggesting. He stated that he believes that a cut out of a $267 million budget is totally inadequate, and he feels that the additional $250,000 cut does not mean anything. He noted that his response is to take a lot more out of the budget than $250,000. Upon call for the question, the motion carried 3/2 Shmnmhan ~nd Goodnight opposed). Commissioner Shanahan stated that this Board has been through several workshops and the public hearing, and he has heard over and over again that th~ budget is way out of line, the County is spending too much money, Staff should be reduced, there should be a freeze on hiring, Impact fees should be increased, and additional gasoline and sales taxes should be considered. He indicated that he would like to see the Manager take an additional $! million out of his budget. Cmiae~oner Shanahan ~oved, seconded b~ Conime~oner Slundere, that an additional $1 million be taken out of the Manager's Commissioner Vo]pe stated that when he voted for the reduction of $250,000 from the Manager's budget, he had in mind the park ranger positions and simple things, but noted that he cannot support the reduction of $1 mi/lion from that budget. Commissioner Hasse indicated that his intent of the $250,000 cut was not to impact too severely, any of the programs in the offing. He noted that he is trying to meet everyone half way in this regard. Upon call for the question, the ~ot~on failed 2/3 Volpe, Hasae, and Goodnight opposed). RESOLUTION 89-255 ADOPTING TENTATIVE BUDGET - ADOPTED Ms. Zalka advised that the next action that is requested by the Board is a resolution to amend the adopted Tentative Budget. She indicated that this will include the amendments that have been pre- pared thus far, the $! mi/lion from the Sheriff's budget and the Page 23 SEPTEMBEH 25, 1989 $250,000 from the Manager's budget. Co~mtsatoner Hume moved, aeconded by Comtsstoner Volpe ~d c~ri~ 3/2 (C~l~s~rs S~~ ~ Sa~der~ ~), t~t ~olution 89-255 ~ adopted. RESOL~ION 89-256 ~ING FINAL BURET - A~D Ms. Zalka s~ated tha~ the next actlon required, is a resolution adopt the Final Budget. Cm~ssion~r Vol~ ~ed, seconded ~ Co~iselo~r H~ ~ c~r~ 3/2 (Cm~s~onere S~ ~d Sa~re o~eed), t~ Re~lutl~ 89-256 ~ a~pted. RESOL~ION 89-257 ~ING MIL~GE ~TES - A~ED Ms. Zalka stated that she must publicly read the list of the 50 Millage Rates, and after the reading of same, the action required by the Commission, is to adopt a resolution, setting thoee Millage Rates. Ms. Zalka publicly read the 50 Millage Rates into the record. Commissioner H&sse moved, seconded by Comtasloner Volpe and carried un~ni~mu~l¥, that Remolution 89-257 be adopted. County Manager Dorrlll advised that this le Me. Zalka'e last budget with Collier County. He stated that she will be getting married and moving to Michigan. He thanked her for creating a very professional Budget Department, and one that has received national award. Commissioner Saunders thanked Ma. Zalka, on behalf of the Com=lssion, for all her work over the years, and wished her well. Page 24 SEPTEMBER 25, 1989 There being no further bus,ness for the Good of the County, the meeting was adjourned by Order of the Chair - Time: 12:0§ A.M. ATTE:S~T: These mtnut.ee~.,~wp.p...roved by the Board on presen~'e~ -- or a. corrected BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS/ BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS/EX OFFICIO GOVERNING BOARD(S) OF SPECIAL DISTRICTS UNDER ITS CONTROL Page 25