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BCC Minutes 09/18/1991 B Naples, Florida, September 18, 1991 LET IT BE REMEMBERED, that the Board of County Commissioners in and for the County of Collier, and also acting as the Board of Zoning Appeals and as the governing board(s) of such special districts as haw~ been created according to law and having conducted business herein, met on this date at 5:05 P.M. in BUDGET SESSION in Building "F" of the Government Complex, East Naples, Florida, with the following members present: CHAIRMAN: Patricia Anne Goodnight VICE-CHAIRMAN: Michael J. Volpe Richard S. Shanahan Max A. Hasse, Jr. Butt L. Saunders ALSO PRESENT: Ellte Hoffman, Wanda Arrighi, Annette Guevtn and Debby Farrls, Deputy Clerks; Nell Dotrill, County Manager; Tom Olltff Assistant to the County Manager; Ken Cuyler, County Attorney; Mike McNees, Budget Director; Michael Smykowskt, Edward Finn and Robert Bryne, Budget Analysts; Martha Skinner, Social Services Director; Frank Brutt, Community Development Services Administrator; George Archibald, Transportation Services Administrator; Bob Blanchard, Growth Planning Director; Mike Arnold, Utilities Administrator; Tom Conrecode, Office of Capital Pro3ects Management Director; Murdo Smith, Acting Parks and Recreation Director; Don Hunter, Sheriff; Lieutenant Byron Tomlinson, Sheriff's Office; Gayle Addison and Gry~tal Blankenship of the Shertff's Office; and Sue Filson, Administrative Assistant to the Board. o.1. Page September 18, 1991 Legal notice having been published in the Naples Daily News on September 15, 1991, as evidenced by Affidavit of Publication filed with the Clerk, public hearing was opened to consider a proposed tax increase and the Fiscal Year 1991/92 Budget for Collier County. County Manager Dorrtll announced that this is the second of two pllbltc hearings to adopt the Board of County Commissioners Fiscal Year 91/92 Budget. He recalled that as a result of the first hearing, he and the Constitutional Officers were asked to prepare potential budget cuts and present same to the Commission this evening. County Manager Dotrill remarked that an additional budget request is being made to reinstill the arterial street lighting in the greater Naples area. County Manager Dorrill advised that the Commission directed staff to prepare budget cuts in the amount of $3.85 million. He called attention to the hand out which reflects budget cuts totaling $7.1 million under the County Manager and County Commission portion of the bu. dget, and a grand total of $7.7 million in cuts. Mr. Dotrill explained that out of the 67 Counties in the State of Florida, Collier County ranks 67th or last in terms of the total County-wide and operating millages with a combined millage of 3.35. He indicated that Collier County taxes are $335 per $100,000 of taxable value. He reported that of the total $13 billion taxable value in the County, almost 20% is for vacant property. He affirmed that there is an additional 12% of industrial and commercial property. He revealed that of the $335, only $150 per year goes to the Sheriff's Office which Is a very good bargain. He related that the total County Manager operating budgets for that same house valued at $100,000 is $89 per year, and all other Constitutional Officers, Court System and the Board's Departments are less than $60 per year. Budget Director McNees called attention to Page 1 of the agenda packet reflecting property taxes and proposed millage rates. He announced that the General Fund proposed millage rate is 3.3910 for an increase over the rollback r~ate of 7.0%. He pointed out that the Page 2 September 18, 1991 total County-Wide millage rate Is 4.4741 or an increase of 6.3% over the rollback rate. Mr. McNees referred to Page 2 of the agenda packet and noted that tile proposed aggregate millage rate is 5.1876 or an 8.8~ increase over the rollback rate. He indicated that the primary reasons for the tax increases are due to expanded services to staff new facilities that will come on llne next year which are growth management related parks and libraries expansions in addition to maintaining the current Levels of Services. Mr. McNees called attention to Page 10 of the agenda packet, listing the potential budget cuts. He explained that the three page handout Includes this list as well as the Constitutional Officers Items and their potential cuts. Mr. McNees recalled that at the last budget hearing, a gentleman representing the Turnbury Lighting District, requested that that District be deferred. He advised that staff researched this issue and has no objection to deferring the creation of that Lighting District for one year, pending the Commisslon's approval. Commissioner Hasse suggested reducing '~he operating expenses and additional staff for the Library Expansion to approximately $65,000; deleting the expanded funds request in the. amount of $130,000 for the Public Health Unit; deleting the $32,900 for Contract Agency requests over budget policy; deleting the $240,000 for the first-quarter hiring freeze; deleting $2,000,000 for the Jail Expansion Preliminary Engineering/Design Work; deleting the $~!29,000 for the EMS Substation on Golden Gate Parkway & Airport Road; deleting the $300,000 for the Shertff's Department Gun Range; and deleting the Government Center Water/Sewer Improvements in the amount of $2,§29,000. In response to Commissioner Hasse, County Attorney Cuyler advised that he has voluntarily deferred hiring the tenth attorney for his office until after the next fiscal quarter. Commissioner Masse suggested that travel expenses for each Commissioner be reduced from $3,500 per year to $2,500 per year. Page 3 September 18, 1991 A discussion ensued with regard to the proposed reductions relating to operating expenses and additional staffing for the Library Expansion. Library Director Demarest explained that of the $115,700 associated with this item, there is one position involved: Professional Reference Librarian. He noted that it is unthinkable to be operating a library of its size with only one such position and therefore, a second position is proposed when the move to the new b~ildtng occurs. He noted that this is a phased-in position and does not represent a full year's cost. He suggested that if there are to be cuts, that the $32,200 figure associated with that position be taken out of his budget. He remarked that $83,500 deals with illcreased insurance, electricity, and all the utilities and items required for a building four times the size of the old building. County Manager Dotrill announced that there are four unfilled P~ofessional Librarian positions affected by the hiring freeze. He noted that when the move takes place into the new facility, it will be ullder staffed. He reported that he may try and fill some of those positions in the fall, however, noting tha': he still needs to save $250,000 in the hiring freeze. Commissioner Saunders referred to Page 1 of the three page han- dout, and requested clarification of Item #4: "Further reductions in salary adjustments/budgeted positions. County Manager Dotrill replied that in lieu of deferring all pay raises and adjustments by six months, he is proposing alternatives of either cancelling the pay plan maintenance for the coming year or permanently eliminating some addi- tional positions. He indica~ed that he has already eliminated 26 positions in his budget. Commissioner Saunders stated that the Commtsston's objective is to reduce taxes as much as possible. He recalled that the Manager was directed to come back to the Board with a O~ Increase in the rollback millage rate. He observed that Mr. Dotrill and the Constitutional Officers have done a commendable Job in providing a menu of items to select from to accomplish same. He explained that if all the cuts are Page 4 September 18, 1991 implemented as suggested, the County will be beyond the 0% increase in the rollback millage rate and there will be a negative number. He related that this is commendable but only if it does not result in a reduction of essential services to the community. Commissioner Volpe questioned whether the elimination of addi- tional positions has been identified. County Manager Dorrill stated that beyond the 26 proposed positions, he has not identified further positions. He noted that he would be requesting 90 days in order to identify those positions and to give reasonable notice to the employees who would be affected. Commissioner Volpe suggested that consideration be given to deferring the proposed wage increases for the current employees rather than eliminating positions which would result in a reduction of ser- vices to the tax paying publ.ic. Mr. Jeff Cox stated that he is a member of the Sheriff's Office. He indicated that he has been a member of the Shertff's Firearms Training staff for 13 years; member of the PR-24 Baton Training staff for 8 years; honor guard member for 12 y~ars; and the District 7 S~[b-Statton Supervisor. He ~fflrmed that there are several areas of liability relating to law enforcement: firearms, vehicle accidents and insurance, and special response teams. He advised that the pro- posed Training Range would be used for firearms training, officers training to drive under stressful conditions, and a training course for the Special Response (SWAT) Team. He related that the effec- tiveness of the SWAT Team along with the effectiveness of every officer in the agency depends upon training. He explained if the money for the Training Range is cut from the budget, any one lawsuit could easily pay for that range several times over. He ci'{ed the importance of the helicopter which in many instances is the only way to get injured civilians out of an area and reinforcement people with supplies in; and searching for missing children and the elderly encountering medical problems. He noted that these are life saving measures. He reported that he is 150~ in favor of cutting those Page 5 September 18, 1991 things that may currently be an inconvenience but could be picked up later, but this portion of the law enforcement budget is not a con- ventence, its life saving measures that is an absolute must. Ms. Vicki Vaughn, Public Relations Consultant, read a letter to the Commission from Sheriff Ellison DeFore who was Lieutenant Governor candidate with Governor Bob Martinez. The letter addressed the Sheriff's proposed helicopter acquisition, citing the efficiency and effectiveness of same in law enforcement to cover a vast amount of te~ritory in short order; and citizens are greatly reassured by hearing the sound of the helicopter overhead at night. She urged the Commission's support of the purchase of the helicopter. Mr. Walter Kissel, Member of the Fire Commission Steering Group of Collier County, called attention to Community Development Services Fund 113, relating to trained, certified and commence of new construc- tion for a fire protection system inspecto.c. He advised that the Fire De~,artments in Collier County currently ha~e 15 certified ~nspectors for' new construction and reinspection. He questioned why the County intends to certify its own employees to duplicate an existing service that has no direct costs to the County. Community Development Services Administrator Brutt replied that the development industry has indicated that there is a lack of con- sistency by the inspections performed by the Fire Districts, notinG that the County strives to provide consistency by having all the inspectors under the leadership and guidance of one individual. He explained that members of the development industry support the fact that the County's individuals are trained, managed, and they are satisfied with what is being done. Commissioner Hasse remarked that the Commission is attempting to find ways to reduce the budget. He stated that since the fire departments are adequately staffed and trained to do an effective Job, and suggested that perhaps tile issue of uniformity relating to inspec- tions could be worked out with the various departments. Mr. McNees pointed out that Page 17 of the agenda refers to this 07 Page 6 Septembe~ 18, 1991 issue. He affirmed that the County's billing department collects the inspection fee, forwards same to the appropriate fire department and proposes to continue in this manner. He noted that this revenue has newer been budgeted since it has been handled as a balance sheet account. He advised that a budget has been added to account for that money and appropriated same in order for it to be distributed to the flr~ districts. Commissioner Shanahan stated that staff needs to meet with the Steering Committee to resolve this matter. Mr. Michael Willis, representing the Sexual Abuse Treatment Program for Children and Families in Collier County, stated that this agency has been operating for five years under funding from the United Way, HRS, and the general budget from Lee County. He noted that this program is currently being operated by the Concerned Citizens for the Sexually Abused Treatment of Citizens of Lee and Collier County. He affirmed that as of October 15, 1991, the program will cease to exist, due to funding problems. He indicated that Lee County can no longer find. the funds to operate the Collier County budget. He revealed that he has a petition containing 300 signatures, requesting the Commission to approve a program to handle this situation. He explained that there has been a 300% increase over the past three years in sexually abuse cases. He asked that the Commission and the public review this budget and that the County provide the funding. He related that the proposed budget to operate the Collier County branch would be $153,970. County Manager Dotrill advised that the David Lawrence Center is the designated Mental Health Agency in Collier County. He pointed out that Mr. Willks is speaking about a Lee County contract agency and these people did not file an application to be eligible fox' contract funding. He suggested that ~he Commission weigh and balance Collier County needs before Lee County needs are balanced. He announced that approximately $600,000 per year is provided to the David Lawrence Center. 08' Page 7 September In answer to Commissioner Shanahan, Mr. Willis stated that United Way had $10,000 in their budget for the (Jollier County program, however, the funds have gone back to that agency since the remaining part of the budget is not feasible. He indicated that there are State Fllnds which may be applied for by Colliel~ County. Commissioner Saunders suggested that Mr. Willis contact staff in order to get into the process for next year. Mr. Don Price provided two charts depicting the Sherlff's Department operatlon costs for the past ten years. He indicated that the Shertff's budget has skyrocketed since 1989. He noted that the Shez'iff's Office has operated very nicely without the helicopter and ques~tioned the number of deputies that would be cut to pay for the fuel, maintenance and a new buildinG in which to store the aircraft. He stated that a fully equipped police helicopter, capable of pursuit rescue assist operations, night operations and over water operations is needed, however, this could be purchased for under $230,000 and a cost of $65 per hour to operate as opposed to the $300 per hour tur- bine engine as proposed by the Sheriff. He suggested that a line by line review of the Sheriff's budget be conducted. He urged the Commission to consider zero base budgeting. ***Depu%~ Clerk Arrtghl replaced Deputy Clerk Hoffman at this time*** Mr. Miguel Fernandez questioned what has been done in the County regarding the data processinG centers since the study of 19897 County Manager Dotrill advised that this year the Manager's office has entered into a cooperative agreement with the Clerk of the Circuit Court from whom they will receive their support and system which is a Digital product. He noted that they are in the conversion process at this time which should be completed by November, 1991. He related that the other Constitutional Officers remain independent from this system. Mr. Fernandez Indicated that the County as a whole should have a master plan to bring all their data processinG needs Into one system rather than duplicating efforts. Page 8 September 18, 1991 Commissioner Saunders agreed with the comments of Mr. Fernandez and recommended that the Citizens Cost Reduction Committee review this issue with all the Constitutional Officers. Commissioner Shanahan supported the comments by Commissioner Saunders. Commissioner Goodnight affirmed that the Board's office has been working together with the Sheriff's Department, the State Attorney's Office, and the Clerk's Office which should result in having an integrated system by December, 1991. Mr. John B. Lepore expressed his concern about rising taxes and stated that a 10% reduction in the budget for all the Constitutional Officers should be strictly adhered to. He emphasized that the budget is very confusing as presented to the average citizen. The effort to explain the capital spent per person in Collier County per year by Mr. McNees and Commissioner Saunders was not to the sat:[sfaction of Mr. 3ohn Lepore. Mr. Scott Lepore commented that priorities must be set for the County and budgets cut. He expressed grave concern regardinG the high salaries made by top level management in Collier County. He questioned specific items tn the Sheriff's budget such as the need for the helicopter, the shooting range, and ~the amount budgeted for heat in the County Jail. He requested that the Board approve a rolled-back millage rate. Mr. George Keller, President of Collier County Civic Federation, stated that there appears to be no explanation offered in the budget rega~rding the expense of $1] million to which County Manager Dorrill explained that the revenue w~11 be acquired through sales and gas tax as well as through six impact fees. Mr. Keller sug!)ested that the millage rate could be rol].ed-back to 4.093. He added that the County should be looking toward smaller pay rais~ee or none at all. Mr. Robert Bla~coe, representing Sou~h Florida Welfare and the Cocoon Program, presented to the Board of County Commissioners a docu- men~ proposing a new program to commence on October 1, 1991. He Page 9 September 18, 1991 stated that these organizations are helping the homeless and the senior citizens who need the help from the County. He remarked that any amount provided by the County will be Greatly appreciated. ,,4, Rectlud: 7:05 P.M. - Reconvened: ?:20 P.M. Mr. Bob Riley, a self-employed taxpayer in Collier County, speaking on behalf of Project Help, informed that this organization is a licensed, validated, and non-profit agency which he volunteers his time to. He advised that this agency is helping to maintain public health, safety, and welfare. He provided credibility to the program and requested that support continue for it at its requested amount. Mr. William M. Richards, business man and taxpayer of Collier County, requested the continued support cf Project Help and provlded information as to its importance in the community. Ms. Linda Winston, Executive Director of Shelter for Abused Women of Collier County, expressed her concern regarding the level of sup- port the State and County is affording the social services agencies of Collier County and requested that the County support the Shelter. Ms. Jane Varner, member of the Taxpayer Action Group, stated that she supports not increasing the wages of government employees. Mr. Dick Loeber, representing himself and the Taxpayer Action Group, stated that they feel very stronqly that the line must be held on taxes and spending. After pointinG out the increase of County employees over the past five years, he inferred that the charts pre- sented by the County's staff distorts the progression of the rela- tionship between Government employees and population which it is intended to portray. He noted that the County should provide the essential services to its citizens. He expressed his support for deferring the wage increases of the County employees and suggested cutting back on over staffing. Mr. McNees commented for the record that the number of Collier County employees per thousand population has decreased over the last two years. Mr. Steven Hill, business man of Collier County, expressed his Page 10 September 18, 1991 support for the request of the Shertff's Department for a gun range. He commented that the training of a law enforcement officer is of great benefit to the officer and the public. Mr. David Land, an economist who lives in Immokalee, noted that four plans developed as part of the Immokalee Master Plan are not part of the proposed budget. He stated that the four plans include a housing study, a redevelopment plan for South Immokalee, an economic study, and a labor market study. He informed that all these studies are required to effectively begin addre~3sing the needs of Immokalee and are required to be in compliance of the Comprehensive Plan. He informed that the funding for these studies is in the range of $115,000 to $165,000; however, he is requesting $25,000 be included in the budget for I~okalee related, economic and statistical studies. Mr. Edward A. Morton spoke on behalf of supporting the Sheriff's Department. He specifically requested that the stop light currently budgeted for installation on C.R. 951 in front of Lely Elementary School be expedited which would help ensure the safety of 750 children. Mr. Jim McGrath communicated that the County needs to relook at how it is doing business and learn to consolidate which would result in a lower budget, benefiting the c~ttzens of the County. Dr. Jane Polkowskt, pointed out the importance of support for ba,3tc health care for those in need which can make a big difference in life time costs for a person. She noted that poor health can be dt:rectly associated with an increased dependency on society and tax- payers. She tnfommed that the request for $130,000 is for clinical and field staff for the matelrnal child health and communicable disease programs. She emphasized that a decision for preventive health care is a savings for taxpayers. Ms. Berrie Gulacstk, speakin~ on behalf of the League of Women Vo~ers of Collier County, expressed strong support to budget Dr. Polkowski's requef~t. Mr. Fred Tarrant, speaking on behalf of the Taxpayer Action Group, Page 11 September 18, 1991 declared that the budget should be cut and specifically commented that there are too many lawyers, consultants, managers, and projects included in the budget. Mr. Charles R. Rhoades, representlnil h~mself and a member of the Taxpayer Action Group, supported the funding in the budget requested by the Shertff's department including the funding for the helicopter. He pointed out that the police are the County's first defense. Deputy Clerk Guevtn replaced Deputy Clerk Arright at this time ** Richard Ltlten spoke in support of allocating funds to the contract agencies, in particular victim assistance groups such as Pz'o~ect Help. Randall Brown advised he is a hot line volunteer for Project Help, speaking on behalf of victim programs. He asked the Board to keep in mind the tremendous amount of good the contract agencies do for the citizens of the County. Emily Maggio urged the Board to consider cutting from the budget the beach parking fee being paid to the City of Naples. She suggested using that money to pay County employees to man County beaches and let the citizens park free. Joanne Herriss suggested that in order to cut government spending, the County look into prtvatization of services that could be better performed in private industry. She also urged the Board to freeze wages and benefits of County employees for one year. She proposed all spending appropriations that are not a necessity be cut from the budget. She said the County does not need a baseball stadium, a bicycle czar or a police helicopter. Commissioner Shanaban stated the proposed agreement for the base- ball stadium provides a guaranteed maintenance contract to protect the interest of Collier County citizens so they will not have to pay. He said the stadium project Is guaranteed at absolutely no cost to the citizens, and the Board of County Commissioners insisted on those facts being part of the agreement before the Issue went to referendum. With regard to the bicycle pedestrian program, he said, the County is Page 12 September 18, 1991 allocating $10,000, not $105,000 as referred to by Ms. Harrtss. He said there is a very strong demand in the community for bike paths. Frances Barsh with TAG, questioned the figure of $1,220,300 for affordable housing under special revenue funds. Commissioner Volpe explained that figure anticipates revenues based upon the linkage fee fair share consultant's report which will bl~ presented to the Board at a future meeting. He said the linkage fee will be paid by primarily commercial property owners with a fair share paid by single family residents. Dave Enttng, speaking on behalf of t:he Volunteer Center of Collier County and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), communicated tile Volunteer Center has placed over 2,000 volunteers with agencies including County government during the first four years of its existence. He indicated volunteers working for Collier County govern- ment have saved $50,000 in salaries over the past nine months. He at~ked the Board to support allocations to the contract agencies, adding he would support a decision to reallocate a portion of funds directed to the Volunteer Center Into a contract agency, if that deci- sion becomes necessary. Mark Cherney, Chief Pilot with the Sheriff's Office, said the purchase of a helicopter will benefit a number of agencies including f:[re departments throughout Collier County, the City of Naples Police Department and the local Customs office. He stated during his research, he discovered only seven of Florida's 67 counties utilizing the Hughes 300 aircraft. He added only three of the seven counties are flying solely Hughes 300 aircraft while the remaining four coun- ties have bigger aircraft and utilize the Hughes 300 as a back-up v~htcle. He indicated the Shertff's Office is trying to find something that will be a multi-mission helicopter in order to do the most amount of Jobs for the least amount of money. Commissioner Shanahan questioned the hard dollar cost of the aircraft? Crystal Blankenshtp with the Sheriff's Office, responded the pro- Page 13 September 18, 1991 3ected cost is $800,000 to $1.2-million over a four to five year period, depending on the interest rate. She said $168,000 has been included in the budget for capital lease payments in FY 92. Commissioner Volpe asked if impact fees or the Confiscated Trust Fund could be used to partially fund the helicopter7 Ms. Blankenshtp advised impact fees can only be used for future growth and not for an existinG deficiency. She said there may be a problem since the helicopter is a replacement of an existing asset, however, that possibility can be investigated with the consultant spe- cializing in impact fees. She stated the same issue arises with using the Confiscated Trust Fund, although extra equipment that would be newly acquired for the helicopter may be purchased through that fund. Earl Jacobson commented he has personally flown the Hughes 300 model in a law enforcement role. He said that aircraft is marginally adequate for law enforcement because of its low range, low endurance and very limited weight carrying capability. Wayne Hook gave his support to the purchase by the Sheriff's Office of the proposed helicopter. $'' Ricesled: 8:55 P.M. - Reconvened: 9:05 P.M. see Commissioner Shanahan asked why the Sheriff's Office cannot use the Ford test track or the Naples Police firing range in the training p:rocess of his Deputies7 Sheriff Hunter advised the Ford Motor test track Is a wonderful resource to the Sheriff's Office. He indicated, however, the test tmack is not of the proper dimensions, a,~d]ng it does not have the insurance that would permit him to perfo:rm certain tests and vehicle driving situations. With regard to the Naples Police firing range, he said there is no such thing. He stated the Naples Police train at the Gollier County Sheriff's Office firing range at the landfill, along w~th U.S. Customs Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. In response to Commissioner Volpe, Sheriff Hunter explained he has not asked for any additional positions in his proposed budget, even ~age 14 September 18, 1991 though the numbers of calls for service have increased and the popula- tion base has increased. He said they are asked to do more with less, and the helicopter is a method of attempting to accomplish that. Commissioner Volpe communicated he will need to be convinced to approve funding a helicopter instead of additional road patrols. Sheriff Hunter reported road patrol deputies cannot be added while holding the budget at a ?~ increase. He said he had to formulate a strategy to somehow accommodate patrol while not increasing the number of people in the budget, and that will be accomplished with the heli- copter. In answer to Commissioner Goodnight, Mr. McNees stated of the $401-mllllon referenced earlier, $91-mtllton is cash balance brought forward from the current fiscal year. He said another $118-mtllion ar,~ transfers and internal service funds which are dollars that are counted twice, because they are paid from one department to another. He pointed out if those two items are removed from the revenue side, th~ new money becomes one-half of the earlier quoted figure. In response to Mr. Lepore, Mr. McNees stated the $91-millton carry forward will be appropriated into a reserve account. He said the CotLnty has a 5~ State mandated revenue reserve and a number of man- dated debt service reserves, particularly in utilities in the area of $10-12-mtllton, as well as contingency reserves in every fund at the level of approximately 5~ to meet cash flow needs. Co~isstonsr Shanahah moved, seconded by Commissioner Hasse and carried unanimously, to close The public hearing. Commissioner Volpe remarked the bicycle/pedestrian coordinator position has not been recommended to be cut from the budget, however, there has been discussion regarding that issue that needs to be resolved. Commissioner Shanaban stated approval has already been given on that position, and the MPO has moved on a request for State funds. Commissioner Volpe indicated the Sher:iff's helicopter deserves additional discussion. Page 15 September 18, 1991 Commissioner Shanahan mentioned items3 have been asked to be included that are not in the current budget, such as the Immokalee Economic Statistical Study and a request to consider accelerating the traffic light at C.R. 951 and the Lely Elementary School. Commissioner Goodnight suggested the Board review the list of potential budget cuts provided by the County Manager. Commissioner Shanahan agreed with Commissioner Hasse that the following expanded service items previously approved should be left in the budget: $54,200 and $51,200 respectively for staffing at the East Naples and North Naples Community Parks; and fourth quarter phase-in of 855,100 in staffing for multipurpose facility at the East Naples Park, as well as $27,400 for maintenance of new baseball fields at the Golden Gate and North Naples Parks. Commissioner Volpe concurred. Commissioner Saunders stated that for purposes of discussion, he agrees the items should be ]eft in the budget, however, he will not make any commitments until the Board reviews the entire list of pro- posed cuts. He suggested several major Items on the list be examined which may accomplish the goal of the Board of no increase over the roll back millage rate. Commissioner Goodnight suggested the Board review each item as it occurs on the list and if necessary, readdress them after each Commissioner has the opportunity to express his opinion. $$ Del~¥ Clerk Farrts replaced Deputy Clerk Guevtn at this time ,e Regarding East Naples Community Park ($54,200) and North Naples Community Park ($51,200) (page 10 of the Budget packet), it was the consensus that, initially, there is no problem with leaving these items in the budget. Regarding the elimination of fourth quarter phase-ins for East Naples Community Park ($55,100) as well as Golden Gate and North Nap]es Parks ($27,400), Commissioners Shanahan, Hasse, Goodnight and Saunders stated they have no problem with leaving these items in the budget, while Commtsslone~ Volpe ~ndlcated he has no problem leaving Page 16 September 18, 1991 these items in subject to his earlier statements concerning item #4 of the Current Service Options. Regarding operating expenses and additional staffing for the Library Expansion ($115,700), Commissioner Hasse suggested the amount of $83,500 be approved, to which Commissioners Shanahah and Volpe con- curred, while Commissioner Saunders suggested'leaving the amount at $115,700 at this point. Regarding the expanded funds for the Public Health Unit ($130,000), Commissioner Hasse stated he feels the $130,O00 can be dispensed with, to which Commissioners Shanahan and Volpe concurred, while Commissioner Saunders stated he feels the $130,000 should be left in the budget as it will actually save significantly more tax dollars over the years by preventing certain types of illnesses and birth problems. Commissioner Goodnight concurred with Commissioner Saunders' comments. Regarding the Beach Parking Fee to the City of Naples ($96,200), Co~nissioners Shanahan, Hasse, and Saunders agreed that this amount should be left in the budget, while Commissioners Goodnight and Volpe felt it should be eliminated. Regarding the Contract Agency requests ($32,900), Commissioners Shanahan and Goodnight voted to leave this amount in the budget; ComI~tssioner Hasse voted to take it out; Commissioner Volpe stated that $150,000 was the amount agreed upon as a budget policy and he understood that the majority of the Board of County Commissioners sug~;ested it was the intent to get out of the Contract Agency busi- ness; while Commissioner Saunders proposed the amount of $185,000 be funded, with an increase of up to $25,000 to Project HELP. Commissioner Goodnight stated the Board of County Commissioners seems to be at an impasse and, therefore, they will proceed to the next item. Regarding the First-quarter hiring freeze, Commissioner Saunders agreed that the hiring freeze should be continued and perhaps even expanded, to which Commissioners Volpe, Hasse, Goodnight and Shanahah Page September 18, 1991 concurred. Regarding the further reductions in salary adjustments and budgeted positions, Commissioner Saunders voiced approval. Commissioner Volpe stated that, without the cooperation of all the Con~3tituttonal Officers, he feels it unfair to single out the County Manager's Agency for that purpose. He added that he will go along with the recommendation as a compromise position on the County Manager's part. Commissioner Goodnight stated she does not support the proposal, to which Commissioners Hasse and Shanahah concurred. Commissioner Goodnight summarized the position of the Board of County Commissioners regarding reductions in salary adjustments and budgeted positions by stating that amount of money will remain in the bud!jet. Referring to the Capital Projects category listed on page 11 of the Budget package, Commissioner Shanahah stated that the $2,000,000 for Jail expansion should be cut from the budget, to which Commissioners Hasse, Volpe, Goodnight and Saunders concurred. Regarding the EMS Substation at Golden Gate Parkway and Airport Road ($229,000), Commissioner Hasse supported cutting the amount from the budget, to which Commissioners Volpe, Goodn~ght, Saunders and Shanahan concurred. Regarding the EMS Substation in North Naples ($707,2OO), Comm~issioner Hasse supported leaving this amount in the budget, to which Commissioners Volpe, Saunders, Shanahan, and Goodnight con- cuffed. In reference to the Sheriff's Department Gun Range (listed at $~O0,O00), Commissioner Goodnight stated this amount has been reduced $200,000 pursuant to the She¥tff's recommendations. Commissioner Hasse suggested cutting $200,000 from the budget per Sheriff Hunter's request, leaving $1OO,O00 budgeted for the gun range, for which the consensus was to concur with Commissioner Hasse's suggestion. 19 Page 18 September 18, 1991 Regarding the proposed Government Center Water/Sewer Improvements, i.e. Engineering and Construction ($1,235,000) and Impact Fees ($1,500,000), County Manager Dotrill stated if the Board of County Gommtssloners prefers to remove these two items from the budget at this point, it may become necessary for him to again request $235,000 should it be determined that fire hydrants in and around the north side of the Jail and the Public Services Building are a necessity. Commissioner Shanahan suggested cutting $2,500,000 and leaving the $22.5,000 in the budget at this time. Gommlssioner Volpe suggested el/m/nation of the entire amounts at this time ($1,235,000 and $1,500,000). Commissioners Hasse, Saunders, and Goodnight concurred with Gommlsstoner Shanahan's suggest/on. Referring to page 12 of the Budget package, the 1991 prepayment and 1992 lease payments totalling $369,000, it was the consensus to cut this amount from the budget. Pursuant to Commissioner Goodnight, Crystal Blankenshtp of the Sheriff's Office explained that the lease payments are vehicle pa%~ments that were due next year which have been paid this year and, therefore, the capital expenditures under vehicles will be cut $369,000 for next year. In response to Commissioner Volpe, Ms. Blankenship explained that, although some vehicles will be purchased, the Ford Motor Company has donated eight Lincoln Towncars over the past several years. She explained that two Thunderbit'ds are to be delivered within the next week or so and several Escorts are being used as well for an aggregate of approximately $240,000 in savings to taxpayers represented by the donations of these vehicles. Sheriff Hunter reported that his office does not select the vehicles to be loaned for their use. Pursuant to Commissioner Shanahan's Inquiry regarding the increase in anticipated revenues ($239,900), Ms. Blankenship explained that this represents revenues already recognized this year which will be Page 1 9 September 18, 19gl reflected in the turn back in the budget this year. Regarding the expanded Minutes Secretary position ($24,100) and the half time courier ($9,000) which come under the Clerk's purview, it was the consensus to agree with cutting these amounts from the budget. Commissioner Shanahan pointed out there remains the matter of the $6,000 in Mary Morgan's (Supervisor of Elections) budget. He stated it is foolhardy to cut this amount from the budget due to the fact she did not consider the proposed postal rate increase when she proposed this cut. It was the consensus to leave the amount of $6,000 in the budget. Commissioner Hasse suggested removal of one Assistant County Attorney position as the current vacancy has not yet been filled. Commissioner Saunders stated he feels the Board of County Commissioners should follow the recommendation of the Cost Reduction Committee to staff the County Attorney's Office at a level of ten. Commissioner Hasse commented he could agree with Commissioner Sa'unders' remarks if he could see that work was being done in-house instead of directed to outside attorneys. Commissioner Volpe stated it troubles him that the County is deferring Park Rangers due to the hiring freeze and, therefore, the position in the County Attorney's Office should be subjected to the hiring freeze as well. Commissioner Shanahan stated he agrees with following the recom- mendation of the Productivity Committee but also agrees with Commissioner Hasse's remarks that the County Attorney's Office should look for every opportunity to reduce outside legal expense. Commissioner Goodnight stated the consensus is to leave the posi- tion with the County Attorney's Office ]n the budget. Regarding the reduction of travel e~pense, Commissioner Saunders voiced support for cutting the travel budget by $1,000. Gommissioner Goodnight pointed out that will amount to an aggre- Gate reduction of $§,000. Page 20 September 18, 1991 The consensus was to cut the travel budget. Pursuant to Commissioner eoodnight's ]~eguest of an analysis of what has been cut, Budget Director McNees summarized that: Item #1 on the first page is funded; Item #2 on the first page is funded; Item #3 ii~ cut from $115,700 to $83,500, for a $32,200 reduction; the $130,000 request in Item #4 is not funded; Beach Parking Fee to City of Naples in the amount of $96,000 is funded; Contract Agency requests are uncertain at this time; First Quarter Hiring Freeze has been accepted and accounts for $240,000 cut in the budget; Item #4 was not accepted and those funds are left in the budget; the jail expansion was cut; the first EMS Substation was cut; Item #3, the North Naples EMS Substation is funded; the Shertff's Department Gun range is funded in the amount of $100,000, $200,000 havinG been cut; the Government Center water/sewer improvements are funded in the amount of $235,000, $2,500,000 having been cut; under the Sheriff's Office, the 1991 pre- payments were accepted for a $369,000 cut; the increased revenues were accepted with a $239,900 cut; under the Clerk of Courts, the recommen- dations for both the Minutes Secretary and half-time courier positions were accepted for an aggregate of $33,100 cut; and $5,000 is cut from the Board of County Commissioners travel expense, for a total of $5,978,200. Commissioner Goodnight pointed out that the $6,000 in Mary Morgan's budget is to remain, to which Budget Directo~ McNees acknowledged that is his understanding as well. Regarding the helicopter requested by the Sheriff's Office, Co~uaissioner Saunders verified he has come full circle and now sup- ports the Sheriff's request for same. Co~uaissioner Volpe stated he could not support the expenditure of $[68,000 for the helicopter this year, adding he would like to see the monies used to add additional road pat]~ols. Commissioners Goodnight, Hasse, and Shanaban voiced support for the helicopter. Commissioner Shanahan stated there has been considerable criticism Page 21 September 18, 1991 relative to the lighting problem in North Naples where a number of lights were turned out, reflecting a sum of $97,000. He commented the issue of whether safety is being sacrificed for savings has come up. He suggested that an analysis should be done to determine which lights should be turned back on, to which Commissioner Hasse concurred. In response to Commissioner Hasse's inquiry regarding the opera- tion of the lights, County Manager Dorrill reported they operate indi- vidually on a photoelectric cell and run in series. Commissioner Nasse suggested utilization of a timer to turn the lights out at midnight, and Transportation Services Administrator Archibald confirmed that is a possibility. Transportation Services Administrator Archibald stated they are in s position to continue a study which will indicate whether or not the lights are serving a function for people travelling the corridors on bicycles or as pedestrians. His analysis to-date is that the lights at night are not of any great benefit to the corridor. He confirmed that the use of timers will not result in a savings during the first year. County Manager Dotrill reported the lights are presently turned out to the tune of $97,500. He relayed staff's position that the lights are not a safety issue, but added that there is a service issue regarding same. Gommissioner Hasse stated he wants to see the amount for the lighting added back into thf~ budget. Commissioner Saunders concurred with putting the $100,000 back into the budget, and requested that the Board of County Commissioners direct Transportation Services Administrator Archibald to turn the lights on while the study is being performed. Commissioner Volpe declined to support putting the money back in aLt this point in time. Commissioner Shanahan concurred with adding the money back in. Commissioner Goodnight ~;upported taking the money out. County Manager Dotrill acknowledged that the results of the Board Page 22 September 18, 199! of County Commissioners' action was a 3/2 vote to add $97,500 back into the budget. Budget Director McNees stated that the sales tax subsidy to the Road and Bridge Fund will be increased by that amount and ad valorem taxes will be raised to replace the sales tax. Regarding the Turnbury Lighting District, Commissioner Volpe suggested, pursuant to recommendations of staff and the Turnbury pro- perty owners, deferring the matter for one year. The consensus was to comply with Commissioner Volpe's recommen- dation. Regarding the Lely Elementary School stoplight, Commissioner Goodnight pointed out that Transportation Services Administrator Archibald will follow up on this item as it is not a necessary budget item. She stated there is a need to put up school signs, if they are not already there, and to reduce the speed limit. Transportation Services Administrator Archibald reported that, although there is no school zone, there is school signing. He stated the matter of whether the intersection meets the warrant requirements will be looked into and a report will then be provided to the Board of Oount¥ Commissioners. Gommissioner Shanahan suggested that the possibility of lighting tlhe entrance with regular lightinG versus a flasher be addressed in Mr. Archibald's study. Pursuant to Commissiong~ Saunders' inquiry regarding the requested $130,000, Dr. Polkowski, Pub.llc Health Administrator, verified the amount is for maternal, child health and communicable disease control. She verified receipt by the Health Department of the Davis Productivity Award due to the IPOP program's success in effectively reducinG the poor pregnancy outcomes, the number of babies requiring intensive care center treatment, and the number of tax dollars required to pay for these babies. Com~es~onmr Saunders moved, seconded by Conissioner Goodnight, to ~t the 8130,000 back into the b~dget. Page 23 September 18, 1991 Commissioner Hasse commented he will accept the $12,000 for the Norplant contraceptive. Gommissioner Volpe reported hearing from the Naples Community Hospital that last year it wr'ote off $40,000,000 in indigent health care and that every member of the Collier County Medical Society wrote off no less than $20,000. He pointed out that these amounts, in essence, are being subsidized by every taxpayer as well. Dr. Polkowski stated tha'C most of the patients seen in the clinic are intact families working in Collier County but who are unable to afford private health care. She commented that the other part of the request is for communicable disease control, which is basic public health. U~on call for the question, the motion failed 2/3 (Commissioners Volpe Has~e, and Shanahen opposed). Commissioners Volpe and Hesse expressed a desire to track the Norplant program for a period of five years. Co~aisatoner Saunders moved, seconded by Co~miseloner Goodnight ~nd cm~-~ed 3/2 (Co~missionsrs Volpe and Hesse opposed), to fund the p.rogrm at $65,000. Commissioner Saunders requested funding the Contract Agencies at $185,000 and, receiving no support, amended the request to $177,900. He asked that some of the money be targeted for project HELP. Commissioner Goodnight stated she has no problem with funding the Contract Agencies at $177,900, but added she has no wish to move any money around. Commissioner Shanahah concurred with $177,900. Commissioner Volpe stated he does not support leaving the funding for Contract Agencies at $17Y,900, and Commissioner Hesse concurred with his comment. Commissioner Shanahen reiterated that the requests made by Messrs. B].ascoe and Michael Wallace have been denied and, therefore, no addt- tt. ons have been approved. Pursuant to David Land's request, Commissioner Goodnight relayed Page 24 September 18, lg91 her understanding that the Regional Planning Council is working with other counties to do an employment study which will inadvertently save money by counties joining efforts with the Council in an attempt to do something Collier County has already agreed to do and which is part of the Immokalee Master Plan as well as the Growth Management Plan. She verified that Lee County has budgeted for this already. Budget Director McNees reported that there are three Resolutions which the Board of County Commissioners needs to adopt after the millages have been established, Commissioner Saunders moved to: for ~__he_ 1992/X993 budget cycle; 2) l) explore zero base budgeting direct the Productivity Co-mittee to investigate with the Cor~titutional Officers regarding how to haz~lle the co~puter operatione; 3) have the Productivity Committee evaluate the poeeibilit¥ of a Joint Fleet Maintenance Program with the Sheriff'~ ~rt~nt; 4) have the Co~ty M~a~er ra~rt on reduce top level ~agement in the Co~ty in terms of the n~ber of ~rso~el ~d salaries, with eaid report to be provided relatively 8son. He defined "top level m~agement" as ~tng from Department Head on up. CommissAoner Volpe suggested that these are suggestions which should be brought up during the strategic planning session. ~tA~ faAled ~e to lack of a second. C~io8ioner Vol~ moved to address the four i~ems men~ioned in Com~io~Aoner Sanders' previous mo~ion during the Board of Co~Ao~i~ero' ~trategic pl~ing session. It m The co~en~ ~o toner wAth Conissioner Vol~'s mo~ion ~r~o the ifeu during the ~tra~egic pl.~ing session. Budget D~rector McNees reiterated the need to adopt Resolution 91-645 which formally adopts the changes to the tentative budget, including those changes made tonAght. He stated that his department will provide additional backtip for tonight's changes for the ChaA~man's s~gnature tomorrow. (:mAo~Aoner Sh~ moved, ~econded by Co~Assioner Hasse ~d Pa~e 25 c~z't~d m~nimously, to adopt l~aolution 91-645, {kdol,t~d T~tattv~ Budget. $epteab~r 18, 1991 Page 26 September 18, 1991 $* Rocoee: 10:30 P.N. - Reconvened: 10:40 P.N. ** Budget Director McNees reiterated the need to adopt two more Resolutions, the first beinG Resolution 91-646 which adopts the fiscal year 1991 millage rates to be levied. He stated he is required by law to read the Resolution into the record and proceeded to do so. He itemized the millage rates for the various funds, concluding that the total county-wide adopted millage rate is 4.0706, which represents a 3.3% decrease from the rollback rate. He reported that the aggregate weighted average millage rate is 4.7539, which represents a .2% increase over the rollback rate. Commissioner Hasse moved, seconded by ¢om~tosioner Sh~nahan and carried unanimously, to adopt Resolution 91-646. Page 27 September 18, 1991 Budget Director McNees confirmed that Resolution 91-647 adopts the FY 1991-92 Final Budget pursuant to the actions taken by the Board of County Commissioners tonight. Co~issioner Shanahah moved, seconded by Co~atssioner Hesse and carried unmni~ou~l¥, to adopt Resolution 91-647 adopting the FY 1991-92 F~nml Budget. Page 28 September 18, 1991 There being no further business for the Good of the County, the meeting was adjourned by Order of the Chair - Time: 10:50 P.M. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS/EX OFFICIO GOVERNING BOARD(S) OF SPECIAL DISTRICTS UNDER ITS CONTROL ATTEST:. '~. JAMES.C. GILES,~-C~RK Th~e.mAnut~'approved by the Board on as presented' ~ or as corrected PATRICIA ~NE GOODNIGHT, CHAIRMAN Page 2 9