Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. July 17, 2009

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1 Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS July 17, 2009 The Marion County Board of County Commissioners met in a workshop session in Commission Chambers at 1:37 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2009 at the Marion County Governmental Complex located in Ocala, Florida. Upon roll call the following members were present: Chairman Payton, District 2; Vice-Chair Barbara Fitos, District 4; Commissioner Mike Amsden, District 1; and Commissioner Charlie Stone, District 5. Commissioner Stan McClain, District 3, was excused as he was in Orlando attending the Central Florida MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) Alliance Quarterly meeting. Also present were Clerk David R. Ellspermann, Deputy Clerk Cindy Bonvissuto, County Administrator Lee Niblock, a member of the news media and one citizen. Budgets/Projects & Programs - Court Administrator David Trammell appeared to review the department s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) (page ). Administrative Circuit Court Judge David Eddy, County Court Judge John Futch, Court Technology Officer Jonathan Lin, Financial Manager Todd Tuzzolino and Guardian Ad Litem Director Karla Grimsley were also present. Administrative Circuit Court Judge Eddy thanked the Board for its continued support (i.e. facilities and equipment), which allowed judges and staff to efficiently perform their jobs. He noted that the Judicial Expansion project was going along extremely well and voiced his pleasure. Judge Eddy stated the expansion was not extravagant, but would be very functional and would allow everyone to perform their jobs. County Court Judge John Futch stated it was his understanding that construction was approximately $1,000,000 under budget. He stated he was present on behalf of County Court Judges and wanted to apprise the Board of a couple of things as well as lay the groundwork for future requests that he may bring forward next year. Judge Futch noted there were 4 County Court Judges in Marion County, but was currently certified for 5 judges by the Florida Supreme Court. He advised that about three years ago the legislature authorized a Civil Traffic Infraction Hearing Officer position. Judge Futch stated hundreds of traffic infraction hearings were conducted monthly. He stated Chris Polak had been acting as the Civil Traffic Infraction Hearing Officer for about 2 years. The position freed County Court Judges from hearing the traffic infraction cases and without Mr. Polak, Judge Futch opined that staff could not get their jobs completed. Judge Futch advised that the State had drastically cut funding for the Traffic Infraction Hearing Officer and noted that the Court Administrator would be shifting money around to cover the position, at least temporarily. He stated the legislature may defund that position next year altogether and he was asking the Board to be proactive in considering funding the position next year. Judge Futch advised that about 2 months ago he began imposing and assessing civil restitution liens in criminal cases. He noted that the Statute had been in existence for about 14 years (since 1995) and basically said that for each day that the sentence was imposed in criminal cases, upon motion of the State, the effective political subdivision (which was the County or the Court) on its own motion could impose a lien Book N, Page 465

2 for the cost of incarceration. The damages were liquidated at $50 per day. Judge Futch stated he had been assessing the Civil Restitution Liens in favor of the County, not the Sheriff. He advised that he met with Acting County Attorney Robert Jeff Fowler, Clerk s Office and Marion County Sheriff s Office (MCSO) before assessing the liens in order to put together an understanding of the process and how the County would follow through on collections. Judge Futch reiterated that it was a civil lien that acted as a judgment against the named individual. From a practical prospective most of the liens would never be collected. He noted discussions were ongoing between the Clerk s Office and County Attorney as to how the physical recordation would occur. Judge Futch stated it may leave the door open for a defendant to come back and say the Sheriff had been charging a daily fee and a hearing may need to be held to provide credit. He advised that he did not know where the money would go, but would be interested next year when he was asking for money. Judge Futch opined that he was the only County Court Judge assessing the liens, but would try to get other judges onboard. He noted that since he began about two months ago he had assessed over $701,000 in civil restitution in favor of Marion County and had collected roughly $4,200. Commissioner Amsden questioned the cost for the position. Judge Futch stated the courts portion was under $25,000. Clerk Ellspermann stated the Clerk s Association would support restoring the funding, noting as Clerks (statewide), that position was very important. Judge Futch concurred and noted his appreciation. He stated that the County Court system was sometimes overlooked and the civil aspect, which the liens were, was overlooked even more. Clerk Ellspermann committed to speaking to Representatives and Senators in regard to the matter. He stated the funds (from liens) would have to be defined, as to whether it could be spent on things other than reimbursement for incarceration costs to the General Revenue Fund. Mr. Trammell advised that the proposed budget was 22.7% less than last year, noting the materials (budget document) were before the Board and he would answer any questions. Commissioner Stone commented on nearing completion of the Judicial Center expansion project and subsequent occupation of the building in late January He questioned whether everything that was needed was budgeted. Mr. Niblock stated the project was on target, under budget and was about 1 week ahead of schedule. Clerk Ellspermann echoed Judge Eddy s comments on the relationship in regard to construction. He commented on the parking lot issue, noting the latest was that the Federal people wanted concrete barriers to be immediately removed upon their request, but due to the extreme cost factor Judge Eddy was contacted in regard to considering the same type fencing as the Federal Building had, which was agreed to. Clerk Ellspermann stated for the record that the compromise was more accommodating, less costly and was how the Judges worked with the County on the process, which would benefit everyone. Mr. Trammell commented on the proposed amendment to the budget and presented two single page documents entitled: Amendment One and Amendment Two. Budget Director Michael Tomich presented a single page entitled, Court Technology Funding and Expenditures Fiscal Years through Financial Manager Todd Tuzzolino stated Amendment One was associated with the Technology budget. After evaluating the budget, staff recommended reducing the budget by $21,600. He stated the department could upgrade rather than buying new equipment and expand its memory. Mr. Tuzzolino clarified that it was part of the Court Technology budget. He Page 466, Book N

3 stated the other related equipment was associated with the judicial expansion and was equipment that could be deferred until next year; memory upgrades as well as having additional talks with repair and maintenance rather than expending capital dollars to purchase new equipment. Mr. Tuzzolino stated Amendment Two was associated with comments made by Judge Futch in regard to the Traffic Infraction Hearing Officer, which would require $15,750 per year to fund the position for the courts. He explained the position, noting it was not a full time employee (FTE), but was through a contract with an attorney and was a part-time position. The funding source for that position would come from Fund 111, a court cost assessment, which would supplement the funding pursuant to State Statute In response to Commissioner Stone, Mr. Tomich stated he was now aware of the proposed changes. He noted the second change discussed was coming from a dedicated funding source outside of General Revenue and the reductions in the Technology budget would help preserve a portion of the General Fund Revenue and reduce the deficit between the Technology expenditure requests and the dedicated portion. Commissioner Stone questioned if it would help on the $859,084 deficit. Mr. Tomich stated that was correct. It was the general consensus of the Board that it had no further questions in regard to the Court Administrator s budget. Budgets/Projects & Programs - Guardian Ad Litem Director Karla Grimsley appeared to review the department s proposed budget for FY In response to Chairman Payton, Ms. Grimsley provided a brief update on the Guardian Ad Litem program, which had also taken a hit in the State budget. She stated that a couple of staff members were lost, but the department was still representing 100% of children in dependency within Marion County. Ms. Grimsley noted the proposed budget was less than what was asked for last year. It was the general consensus of the Board that it had no further questions in regard to the Guardian Ad Litem budget. Budgets/Public Health Mr. Niblock advised that a representative from Dr. Grossman s Office was present in regard to the additional money that Messrs. Ellspermann and Garri brought to the Board s attention at the budget workshop on Monday, July 13, He stated Business Manager III Cheryl Brown, Marion County Health Department, could address the matter. Administrative Services Bureau Chief William Kauffman presented a two page letter from Cheryl L. Brown for Nathan Grossman, M.D., Director, Marion County Health Department, dated July 17, 2009 in regard to the one time enhancement to the Medicaid Low Income Pool (LIP) program by the Agency of Health Care Administration (AHCA) relating to the projected surplus of $633,965 and purchasing recommendations with that funding. Mr. Tomich stated this was the first he had seen of the letter and noted Mr. Garri could better explain the matter. Finance Director John Garri stated the concept was presented to Dr. Grossman in a memo and essentially noted that roughly $2.3 million was budgeted for FY in the 110 Fund, which was an ad valorem based fund (page 110-3). He advised that enough cash was collected to support that entire budget, which he verified earlier in the week. Mr. Garri stated the AHCA was explained earlier in the week and clarified that Book N, Page 467

4 rather than sending the $2.3 million only $1.7 million had to be submitted. Stimulus money was added along with the match to be sent back to Munroe Regional Medical Center (MRMC), who would pay the health department the $2.3 million, which left the County with a surplus of $633,000 available to be spent. He advised that Dr. Grossman was notified and it was his assumption that the letter presented was the Health Department s proposal. Mr. Garri noted that in years past the County had done one of two things: either transfer the funds up to AHCA to be used with the LIP program or disbursed the funds directly to the County Health Department Trust Fund. He questioned whether the funds would be disbursed through the trust fund and the Health Department would purchase the items. Ms. Brown stated that was correct. Mr. Garri stated the direction staff would actually be asking for was for the Board to authorize staff to prepare a budget amendment in the fund to take the dollars out of the AHCA and move it into a line item that could be disbursed directly to the Health Department Trust Fund. Clerk Ellspermann added, by September 30, Mr. Garri concurred and reiterated that the caveat was for the funds to be in their trust fund before September 30, Chairman Payton stated it was an amendment to this fiscal year. Mr. Garri noted that was correct. Commissioner Fitos questioned whether there were any restrictions as to how that $633,400 could be spent. Mr. Garri stated he and Mr. Tomich had discussed that issue, noting it was ad valorem, which opened the door for a number of public purpose issues. The money was collected specifically from taxpayers on the tax bill as a Health Department levy and it was their opinion that the funds should be spent specifically for Health Department purposes, which this action would accomplish. In response to Commissioner Fitos, Mr. Garri advised that the funds were not going to Tallahassee, but would remain local and the County would disburse those dollars for public health purposes, which was perfectly fine. Chairman Payton questioned whether a Budget Amendment Resolution would be on the next agenda. Mr. Garri stated if that was the Boards direction, staff would accomplish the task. Clerk Ellspermann stated the intent was to bring the matter before the Board as early as possible. It was the general consensus of the Board to concur. Clerk Ellspermann referred to the Mass Oxygen Distribution Systems (MODS) that came out of the massive study conducted in regard to the flu epidemic process and this was part of the implementation plan to be ready in the event a pandemic should occur. He stated those would be two of the primary main purchases that need to be done now for the future expectation of an epidemic. Chairman Payton concurred. It was noted for the record that the deputy clerk was in receipt of a copy of the July 14, 2009 letter to Dr. Nathan Grossman, M.D. from Finance Director John Garri in regard to surplus funds. Budgets/Projects & Programs Jeffrey Deen, Regional Conflict Counsel, 5 th District, appeared to review the department s proposed budget for FY (page ). Mr. Deen stated this may technically be the department s first year appearing before the Board, noting he submitted a request last year. He stated the department was created during the 2007 legislative session and the office began operations in Marion County last year. Mr. Deen advised that he spoke with the former County Administrator and County Attorney last year about available office space, but the department did not accept the offer. He stated the department submitted a Section Page 468, Book N

5 28.24 Florida Statutes Technology budget request. Chairman Payton questioned whether the Board was required through State Statute to budget the money or could it reject the request. Mr. Tomich advised that he was unsure. Mr. Deen stated the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) filed a lawsuit, which Marion County participated in, noting the lawsuit was filed on behalf of a number of counties against the State of Florida and his department in particular. He noted there was discussion as to whether Counties were required to comply under Article V. The Statute brought about by the FAC basically stated this was an unfunded mandate that was not supposed to be paid by the counties. Mr. Deen stated while he may agree, he did not have a position in the General Revenues, but the money was a Trust Fund and opined that the money was designated by the legislature to be spent a certain way and the department was included in the statute, which was revised and again included the department in the last legislative session. He stated he was not asking for money out of the General Revenue, noting it was strictly money from the Technology Trust Fund. Mr. Deen added that the case was on appeal to the First District Court of Appeals and it was his understanding that a position came out this morning (or late yesterday afternoon) that affirmed the FAC position that money should not be paid to his office. Having said that, Mr. Deen asked that the Board consider the facts, noting he did not believe the opinion distinguished between Trust Fund money and the County s General Revenue. He noted that he had not yet read the ruling. Mr. Deen reiterated that his main interest was with available office space. He noted the department currently rented space, however the budget did not include a budget line for office space rent. Mr. Deen stated the Legislature advised that the department would have to use existing funds, which took money from due process costs on all cases. He advised that the department defended and provided legal services as required pursuant to Statute for cases the Public Defender could not handle, as well as parents accused of abuse, abandonment or neglect by the State, and a variety of civil functions. Chairman Payton recalled that the County joined in the lawsuit filed by the FAC. He agreed to allow Mr. Deen to negotiate with the County Administrator for office space. Chairman Payton advised that Mr. Niblock would make a recommendation to the Board. He stated for purposes of this discussion if the $67,000 was not part of the County s General Revenue what control of those funds did the County exercise. Mr. Tomich stated the revenue source may well be a trust fund from the State s perspective, but it came to the County as a revenue source to be used for a limited purpose, however that revenue source (on the schedule provided and shared with the various offices requesting those funds) showed a deficit of nearly $1,000,000 for the upcoming fiscal year. From the perspective of the county any dollar increase in requests for technology funds would be coming from the County s General Revenue. He stated he would best describe it as an underfunded mandate, however, in this particular instance calling it a mandate with the lawsuit and interpreting the recent decision would be that it was not a mandate. Mr. Tomich stated it may well not be mandated, but would cost the County in General Revenue Funds. Mr. Deen advised that he worked in 13 counties in 4 circuits, noting he attended meetings with Public Defender Skip Babb, State Attorney Brad King, Clerk of Courts and the Guardian Ad Litem staff and all were able to resolve his requests. The approach he took was to submit a budget of what was needed to the Board, which included staff position for data entry. He stated he was flexible in terms of dollars and noted that there were plenty of items he could speak with staff about in regard to the final request. Book N, Page 469

6 Chairman Payton recommended that Mr. Deen negotiate with the County Administrator for office space. He stated he could pretty much assure that there would be no relief on the budget request today. It was the general consensus of the Board to concur. Budgets/Projects & Programs Director Sarah Stroh, Marion County Senior Services/Marion Transit Services, and Donna Clark, Marion County Senior Services, Transportation, appeared to review the department s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) (page ). Chairman Payton noted the modest increase in the budget request. Ms. Stroh advised that it was due to the slight increase in the 5311 funding, which was the rural transportation funding. A 4% decrease was noted in the Transportation Disadvantage funding, which was through the State. The Section 5311 money required a 50% match from the County and the Transportation Disadvantage match was 10% by the County and was why a $30,000 increase was shown. Chairman Payton questioned the number of un-served clients. Ms. Stroh stated 32 routes were run per day, but some of the more rural areas of the county did not have services everyday due to the lack of funding. Ms. Clark noted there was a huge growing demand in the southern portion of the County, south of The Villages area. She stated another route could be added solely for dialysis. Ms. Clark briefly commented on bus routes and noted that priorities were not being met. Chairman Payton noted a small portion of the budget went to the department, noting the majority of the department s budget came from somewhere else. Ms. Clark concurred, noting there were various sponsoring agencies, including: 5311; SunTran also contracted with the department to provide their ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) complementary program; and Medicaid, which was a huge factor. Ms. Stroh stated the county s portion was the required match. Chairman Payton questioned the fleet. Ms. Clark stated there were some vehicles on the road with 200,000 plus miles and the department had an excellent maintenance program. She noted that in the last few years the fleet had not expanded, but did have a replacement schedule. It was the general consensus of the Board that it had no further questions in regard to the Marion County Senior Services/Marion Transit Services budget. Budgets/Projects & Programs - Executive Director Ann Sternal, Ocala/Marion County Visitor and Convention Bureau (Tourist Development Tax Department), appeared to review the department s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) Ms. Sternal provided a brief update on collections and how the department was doing as far as that was concerned since collections were an important issue. She noted information from 32 bureaus was received from the State Association yesterday. Polk County predicted tourist development tax collections would be down 24% to 28% and Lake County was down 22% from last year. Ms. Sternal advised that she had the report for all 32 counties, but the outlook was about the same, however some were doing better than others. She stated Marion County was about 17% under its projections for this year s budget and was down about 18% compared to last year s budget. Ms. Sternal stated the collection report was received in June for May s revenue, which showed Marion County was down 27%. Ms. Sternal stated the budget position was reviewed several months ago for this Page 470, Book N

7 year and it was realized that the department would have to make reductions. She noted that the State recommended the budget be reduced by 10%, but in order to be cautious the budget was reduced by 15%. Based on the last collection report the department was being extremely cautious the budget was reduced by 20%. At the end of the year, it was expected that the department would end the year with $844,000 in revenue. The budget for the coming year was very conservative and forecasted a budget revenue of $806,000. Ms. Sternal commented on how the figures were derived; based on the Tax Collection Report, received monthly from Tax Collector Albright s Office along with Smith Travel Research, which tracked occupancy rates, average daily rates, revenue per available room, supply and demand, etc. She stated she was cautiously optimistic, but was being prudent in regard to revenue forecast for next year. Commissioner Stone addressed the $806,000 reduction in the proposed budget, noting under Revenues, line item , Tourist Development Tax (page 117-1), showed $860,000; unless there was something he did not receive. He stated if line item , Interest Board, in the amount of $5,000 was included it would be $865,000. Mr. Tomich advised that since the proposal of the budget, $860,000 was the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) figures in July that he presented to the Board. The new revenue figure was $822,743, which may fluctuate and the department could adjust their budget accordingly. The expenditures of this particular budget were rather low compared to the revenue stream; a large expenditure account for promotional expenses gave the department flexibility. At some level, should the revenue drop dramatically the fixed costs would have to be reviewed. Ms. Sternal stated the reserves would not have to be used and there would be some Carry Forward. Commissioner Stone noted that it appeared that the balance of Cash Forward was being increased and questioned whether the department wanted to reconsider that portion. He questioned if reductions in revenue would be met with reductions in promotional expenditures. Ms. Sternal stated that was correct, noting most of the expenses were fixed and the one staff could work with was line item , Promotional Activities (page 117-3), in the amount of $620,000. Chairman Payton inquired if there were plenty of applicants for grants. Ms. Sternal stated there was and noted that the grant application was revised due to the reduced amount of money in the grant line item. She stated the department was sending letters to all organizations who received money in the past as well as those who indicated their interest in applying for grants in order to begin awarding funds at the beginning of the fiscal year. It was the general consensus of the Board that it had no further questions in regard to the Tourist Development Tax Department budget. Budgets/Projects & Programs Chairman Dyer Michell, Heart of Florida Board, appeared to review the department s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) (page ). Also present were Vice-Chairman Randy Klein, Heart of Florida Board and Treasurer Jeff Baiocco. Mr. Michell presented a three page document entitled, Information Package for the Board of County Commissioners July 17, Mr. Michell thanked the Board for its assistance to the Heart of Florida for the last two years. He commented on a major change, which would not have occurred had the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) not chosen to support the Heart of Florida with Book N, Page 471

8 regard to the building currently operating from and noted their appreciation. Mr. Michell addressed the Florida Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and its impact on the Heart of Florida, which had a direct impact on the budget. He noted the request had not changed from the previous two years and remained at $350,000. Mr. Michell referred to page two of the handout and noted that the Heart of Florida received stimulus monies through elevation to become an FQHC and with that came a grant of $1,300,000 ($650,000 per year over a two year period). A subsequent grant was received in the amount of $100,000 ($50,000 per year over a two year period). He commented on cost based reimbursement for Medicare/Medicaid patients. Mr. Michell stated the Heart of Florida was currently collecting about 16% of gross charges, which needed to be elevated to approximately 40%. He noted the Heart of Florida would receive Federal drug pricing and would be able to utilize the National Health Services Corp. for employees. Mr. Michell commented on grants allowed by being an FQHC. He addressed the potential to make application for grant monies in order to renovate the building where the Heart of Florida was located, which was owned by the County. Mr. Michell advised of conversations with Facilities Management Director Andy Race about going green with the building, renovation of one wing and discussed potentially adding separate building and alternative solutions, which totaled $920,000. He stated it was too late to get an item on the next BCC agenda, but would attempt to have a recommendation brought forward for the August 4, 2009 agenda to discuss the possibility of the Board deeding the building (with a reverter clause) to the Heart of Florida Health Center to allow them to proceed with that application. Mr. Michell addressed the impact of the FQHC, which was reflected in the budget numbers, such as: increased staff (from 13.5 to 27 full time employees) over the next year; additional services (i.e. dental, social worker, mental health, ophthalmology, etc.); increased patient revenue; increased patient volume; and resulting in a healthier community. He commented on requirements of the FQHC, with regard to employees and significant reporting requirements. Mr. Baiocco commented on episodic care and stated a budget was drafted for 2010 with the assumption of County participation. He noted the visit number projected for next year was based on the three providers. Mr. Baiocco stated 2 Nurse Practitioners were added this year and another position was budgeted next year. He noted the payors were roughly 90% uninsured and on average the department collected $9 per visit. Mr. Baiocco stated there was a deficit in the collections, noting revenue projections for 2010 assumed that collections would be about 20% with patients being Medicaid/Medicare. Being an FQHC would allow the department to receive a higher level of reimbursement from the Medicaid/Medicare programs based on cost, which should be in the range of $95 per visit. The challenge for that 20% was that the same infrastructure had to be applied to the remaining 80%. He stated the hospitals would continue to contribute funding as well as charitable contributions from the community. Mr. Baiocco addressed the expense side, with regard to employee benefits was a little over $200,000 annually. Additionally, several high dollar employees (Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer and support staff) would be added throughout the year. He commented on budget numbers relating to referrals for mental health, payroll administration, billing services, etc. Mr. Baiocco advised that without the contribution from the county the Heart of Florida would be required to go back to the drawing board and make changes to the services provided. Page 472, Book N

9 Mr. Klein stated he was proud of his association with the Heart of Florida Health Center. He commented on contributions by Harvey Vandeven for drilling under the parking lot in order for Cox to provide service. Mr. Klein stated his goal as Chairman next year would be to increase efficiency and profitability. He noted that staff in the waiting room should be cross-trained to do more. Mr. Klein addressed the importance of finding a good Executive Director, noting interviews were being conducted. He noted his appreciation to the Board for all it had done. Mr. Michell commented on the diverse Board, which was a diverse group from the community. He noted there was a lot of dedication by many people. Mr. Michell addressed the economy, unemployment and the increasing number of uninsured individuals. He stated the Emergency Departments of the two hospitals were backed up with people who should be going to the Heart of Florida Health Center. Chairman Payton stated that the Board was advised by Mr. Race that he has no money in the budget for maintenance that he has been conducting. Mr. Michell stated he was aware of the situation and commented on discussion with Mr. Race in regard to the air conditioning system. He stated it was expected that the Health Center would have to deal with the issues, however there were no dollar numbers in the budget, but would have to meet with Mr. Race to determine what was needed. Chairman Payton stated the Board was advised that it would be in the neighborhood of $20,000 to $25,000. Mr. Michell stated the air conditioning on the roof was over 20 years old and would be replaced altogether if the grant was received. Commissioner Stone commended those present from the Heart of Florida and noted his appreciation for the budget breakdown provided. He questioned how the message was getting out to the community and the total number of visits being projected. Commissioner Stone also questioned the way visits were analyzed, noting in the beginning the Board was advised that the Heart of Florida wanted to offer primary care where patients would return and inquired as to how many patients were repeat visits and whether the total number of patients served could be quantified rather than total visits. Mr. Michell stated he would provide the numbers, noting staff was separated almost in half with clinical staff functioning on the episodic care on one side and primary care on the other side. He noted the need for staff as the long term goal was to get most of the patients on the primary care side. Mr. Michell stated the Health Center had pretty much been operating at capacity. Commissioner Stone questioned whether a long range plan had been developed. Mr. Michell stated the department had just gone through the long range strategic planning process, noting the Well Florida Council in Gainesville facilitated the discussion and notice was received on March 2, 2009 that it was an FQHC and everything changed. He stated there had not been an update, however within the next 2 years the Health Center would need to establish itself within another area of the County. Commissioner Amsden thanked the Heart of Florida for its efforts and presentation, which was educational. Mr. Michell stated the Heart of Florida could provide the Board with interim reports as well as copies of the audit. Chairman Payton questioned whether the Board should offer to appropriate additional funds for maintenance. Commissioner Stone stated the funds would be needed and was comfortable adding money to the budget at this time. Chairman Payton asked if $370,000 was agreeable rather than $350,000. Commissioner Fitos suggested $375,000. Commissioner Stone stated the other approach would be to add the funds to Mr. Race s budget. Mr. Niblock stated there was a couple of issues and commented on Book N, Page 473

10 deeding the building over, noting maintenance would become the Heart of Florida s responsibility. He stated Mr. Race mentioned to him yesterday that $30,000 would be needed to maintain the building. Commissioner Fitos recommended $380,000 be included. Mr. Michell stated he appreciated the offer, noting the application and deeding of the building would need to be contingent upon approval of the grant application. Chairman Payton noted that had no part in the debate and stated funds for maintenance should be included. He opined that there was a consensus to provide those funds. Chairman Payton suggested $30,000 be added to the Heart of Florida budget for maintenance of the facility (increasing the total funding from $350,000 to $380,000). It was the general consensus of the Board to concur. Mr. Michell stated it was for a good cause. It was the general consensus of the Board that it had no further questions in regard to the Heart of Florida budget. Budgets/Tax Collector Clerk Ellspermann referred to additional letters that were presented earlier, noting one was from the Tax Collector in regard to savings on the Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance premiums. The Tax Collector included the $6,400 cost for insurance and provided a 16% overall reduction and the request was to keep those funds in his budget to distribute accordingly. He advised that he had spoken with Supervisor of Elections Dee Brown and Property Appraiser Villie Smith, noting neither had gotten back to him to make the same request. Mr. Niblock stated the only Constitutional Officer who did not budget the lower amount was the Sheriff. Clerk Ellspermann noted that Mr. Tomich would need direction. Chairman Payton advised that he personally did not have any problems with the request. Commissioner Stone stated his reluctance to do so without the money being earmarked. Clerk Ellspermann stated Mr. Albright would provide additional information if requested. Commissioner Stone stated he did not mind leaving the money in the budget, but would like to know where the money was ultimately going. Commissioner Amsden advised that he was okay with the request. Commissioner Fitos stated it was a fair request. Animal Control/Budgets Mr. Niblock referred to the three page memorandum (dated July 17, 2009) in regard to the Marion County Animal Control and Economic Sustainable Growth Funding addressing the enhancement to provide animal control services within the City of Ocala. He noted that City Manager Ricky Horst sent a memorandum (page 2 of the handout). Mr. Niblock advised that the recommendation from Mr. Horst still had to go before the City Council for action. He noted the City s current costs for animal control was around $235,000 per year as discussed at the Joint meeting held at the Library Headquarters (on June 10, 2009). Mr. Niblock stated the cost to perform those services was $171,555, which was included in the budget as proposed by the County Administrator. However, reference had been made that these are tough economic times and to lessen the impact to the County there was discussion as to corresponding subsidy for any length of time. It was noted that Mr. Horst proposed $151,000 for FY 09/10, $100,000 for FY 10/11, $50,000 for FY 11/12 and no further funding for subsequent years, which was less than what was previously discussed. He commented on savings from The Centers and Heart of Florida, noting it was his recommendation that an Economic Sustainable Growth Account be created for found revenues to provide a funding source rather than appropriating additional dollars from Board Contingencies. Mr. Niblock recommended the account be established from Page 474, Book N

11 revenues as outlined in the memorandum. Commissioner Stone noted he liked the proposal, but stated the City could come back with a different proposal. He stated he agreed with establishing the special account for economic incentives. It was the general consensus of the Board to concur. Commissioner Stone questioned when a final decision from the City would be received. He stated it was important to let the City know what the County would be doing with the funds, which would not only benefit the County, but the City as well. Mr. Niblock noted the City Council had been supportive. Budgets Commissioner Amsden questioned when the budget wrap up was scheduled. Mr. Tomich advised that the deadline for setting the proposed maximum millage rate was Tuesday, August 4, He stated if the Board had further thought on what those millage rates should be other than what was proposed he would suggest continuing the July 21, 2009 meeting to a future date. Chairman Payton stated the Board was pretty much in agreement that the millage rate would remain where it was, except for the Sheriff s Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) for Law Enforcement. Mr. Niblock addressed the 1/100 th of a mill for the payback of the Park Bond. Mr. Tomich commented on the Rainbow Lakes Estates Municipal Service District (RLE MSD) changes. He stated the millage rates would be provided to the Property Appraiser s Office, who would then send out the Truth in Millage (TRIM) notices. Mr. Tomich referred to line item , Aid to Government Agencies (page ), in the amount of $67,327 and requested direction in regard to the Regional Counsel Technololgy budget and deleting those funds to be placed into the Board s Reserve. It was the general consensus of the Board to concur. There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting thereupon adjourned at 3:14 p.m. Attest: James T. Payton, Jr., Chairman David R. Ellspermann, Clerk Adopted by the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, September 1, Book N, Page 475

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