STATE OF NEVADA, ) COUNTY OF ELKO. ) ss. APRIL 7, 2003

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1 STATE OF NEVADA, ) COUNTY OF ELKO. ) ss. APRIL 7, 2003 The Board of Elko County Commissioners meet in special session on April 7, 2003, at 1:30 p.m., in Room 105 of the Elko County Courthouse at 571 Idaho Street, Elko, Nevada. There were present: County Commissioners John Ellison, Chair Elko County Clerk Win Smith --- The following proceedings were held: Chairman Ellison called the regular meeting to order 1:35 p.m. Commissioner Ellison noted for the record that this meeting would be cancelled until April 8, 2003, at 1:30 p.m. due to the lack of a quorum. He stated that Commissioner Nannini would be out of town and would not be back until tomorrow and they requested a full board present for the budget meeting. Commissioner Ellison closed the meeting until April 8, APRIL 8, 2003 The Board of Elko County Commissioners meet in special session on April 8, 2003, at 1:30 p.m., in Room 105 of the Elko County Courthouse at 571 Idaho Street, Elko, Nevada. There were present: County Commissioners John Ellison, Chair Mike Nannini Warren Russell Sheri Eklund-Brown Charlie Myers County Manager Robert Stokes Deputy County Clerk Marilyn Tipton Chief Financial Officer Cash Minor Deputy Comptroller Debbie Armuth County Clerk Win Smith Child Support Coordinator Carolyn Smith Public Administrator Debbie Harrison Library Director David Ellefsen Library Asst. Laura Oki Road Supervisor Otis Tipton Undersheriff Steve Bishop Justice Court Adm. Liz Watson There were present: Nevada Division of Forestry Tom Turk PAGE 1

2 Sheriff County Treasurer Data Processing Chief Juvenile Probation Family Court Master District Court l Clerk District Attorney Gary Zunino Neil Harris Peggy Stewart Caesar Salicchi Dennis Gilligan James Watson Steven Wang Linda Sarman Gary Woodbury PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Commissioner Russell led the meeting participants in the Pledge of Allegiance. COMMENTS BY THE GENERAL PUBLIC: No comments were submitted BUDGET PROJECTIONS: Debbie Armuth reviewed the projected budgets for FY02/03 and FY03/04. She noted that the biggest changes were in the Intergovernmental Revenues which reflected the grants revenues. She stated that she spoke with the County Recorder and they did increase the charges for services. She stated that she had reduced the Miscellaneous Revenue due to the early interest. Debbie Armuth reported that the Ad valorem and Consolidated Taxes were left the same. She noted that the expenses remained the same since the last meeting. She stated those expenses reflected the changes that they have made during this fiscal year in projecting those numbers to the end of the year. They were projecting 1.4 million dollars to the end of the fiscal year for the five operating funds. She noted that she had listed the transfers in and transfers out of the budget. She reported that the Administrative Assessments were included in the budget. She stated that the $240,000 was budgeted for the Jail Special Revenue but because of the prior year deficit from the taxes, they would reduce the transfer in to get back to a positive fund balance. Debbie Armuth stated that the transfer out was to the Road Fund for the early incentive buyouts for retirement of two employees. Debbie Armuth noted the FY 2004 changes to the Intergovernmental line item were to correctly reflect the contribution from the City of Wells for the Sheriff s contract. She stated that the Consolidated Tax was showing a 2.5 increase over this year. She believed that they may want to keep that flat. She stated they were projecting conservatively on the Charges for Services, and the Fine and Forfeitures. She reported that under Miscellaneous Revenue the biggest number was interest. She stated they had budgeted within the current year for the penalties in the State Line lawsuit under Miscellaneous Revenues, and those penalties would not be received from that court case. Commissioner Ellison noted that Debbie Armuth had projected $735, in Miscellaneous Revenues. Debbie Armuth stated that for FY they had $1,020, which was a $285, decrease from what they had projected to receive from FY Commissioner Ellison inquired if that was the hospital money. Debbie Armuth replied no, that was PAGE 2

3 primarily from the interest and penalties on Ad valorem taxes. She believed that the interest and penalties on the Ad valorem would decrease. Commissioner Russell inquired about Consolidated Tax. Debbie Armuth stated that would be the five taxes: Sales Tax, SCCRT, BCCRT, Cigarette, Liquor and the Government Services Tax. She reported that the State collected those taxes and distributed them. Commissioner Russell noted they had gone through January, February and March and inquired if those taxes would decrease. Debbie Armuth believed it would be more prudent to assume they would remain flat. She stated that through January the collections were down 2.01 percent from last year. She felt they should look at that number. Debbie Armuth stated the salaries and wages reflected the contracts that were agreed upon. She stated that figure contained the increase in the employees insurance and retirement. She noted that services and supplies had decreased from Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if that was reflected in the department head budgets. Debbie Armuth replied yes. She stated that the capital outlay was brought up from last year s capital outlay s budget. She stated currently in the capital outlay of $249,000.00; there were the Sheriff s vehicles in the amount $150,000 and the Administrative Assessments from all the Courts. She stated that there was also a capital outlay for the indigent which they annually allocate $5, for that line item. Debbie Armuth stated that fund was to increase by 4.5% so they continue to keep that indigent line item. Debbie Armuth noted the debit service increase of $100, for the fire truck. She stated that the contingency fund was back up to $300, but there was a transfer out of $75,000 to the Clerk s election fund. She noted that for the past two years the Clerk has had insufficient funds to cover the elections. She stated that there was a transfer to child support in the amount of $70,000 which was 34% which the County had to pay based upon their budget. She noted that the State reimbursed them at 66%. Commissioner Ellison inquired if they had lost $75, for the elections. Debbie Armuth stated last year, the Clerk spent $140,000 in FY However, they try to have $100,000 in that election fund each year. They hoped that the additional $25, would be sufficient. Debbie Armuth noted the changes made in the Help America Vote program which may reduce the costs. Commissioner Ellison noted they could pull the $25, if needed. Debbie Armuth stated they could transfer that later. Debbie Armuth reviewed the Law Library transfer of $30, She noted that they had to transfer $40, last year so they may have to raise the Law Library transfer. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about Lexis- Nexis participation. Debbie Armuth stated that was not reflected in this accounting. She stated they were ending with a potential of 2.18% fund balance, and to have a 5% ending fund balance they would need $ 982, Commissioner Russell inquired if they had people who may be considering retirement, and if there may be more savings. Cash Minor noted that they would have to find the resources to fund those early retirements. He stated there may be some in public safety who would qualify for retirement. Commissioner Ellison inquired how much money they had saved last time they performed that process. Cash Minor stated that $300,000 was paid out and the average pay back on that amount was 18 months to 21 months. He stated most of those vacated positions were filled so the savings were minimal. Commissioner Russell noted that the savings on the early buy outs would not be reflected until the following year. Commissioner Russell inquired if there would be any savings for this year in FY Cash Minor stated some savings showed up this year and some savings would show up next year. Debbie Armuth stated in salaries of 2003 there would be a reflection of the savings. Commissioner Eklund-Brown PAGE 3

4 noted that insurance was an ongoing problem and inquired if they had sought other group insurance companies. Cash Minor stated that every year they go out for bid on the group insurance. He stated that they have two insurance policies within the health trust. One, was called a stop-loss policy in which any individual with a claim in excess of $50,000 was addressed. The second insurance policy was an aggregate limitation policy. In that policy, they would estimate the total claims for the year and then they would put an insurance policy on that amount. If the health insurance hits the upper cap, then there was an insurance policy. He stated an annual request went out to about 35 companies for quotes. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired why they did not receive more quotes. Cash Minor stated due to the rising costs, the excessive usage of health technology, etc. He stated that if the private companies could not price the policies at a level they were comfortable with to make money, then they would not sell them. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about their 25% increase projection. Cash Minor stated there was an increase of 18% last year. Commissioner Myers noted that with an increase in the consolidated taxes the ending fund balance should be $262,175.00, and that did not include cost allocation. Debbie Armuth stated that the Sheriff s vehicles and the increase for the medical indigent were included. Debbie Armuth believed this worksheet was informational at this point. She felt that they should review the individual budgets before they take action. TAX RATES: Medical Indigent Fund: Debbie Armuth reviewed the Tentative Budget Tax Rates, inclusive of the Medical Indigent Fund. She stated in tax rates she had included the state rates, school rates and entity debt rates to arrive at the tax rate. She noted that Carlin had capped out and they would have to negotiate the difference in the rate if the County was to increase its tax rate. If they levy 1.5 cents to raise the indigent to 8 cents they would keep the operating rate the same, but it would basically switch the funding to indigent. She stated if they levy the two cents it would give them an additional $170, in revenue but they would have to buy out Carlin. She stated if they levied taxes at the maximum.9015 it would generate approximately $700,000 but the other cities would be up to the tax cap. Debbie Armuth noted that Elko County had the 5 th lowest tax rate in the State. Elko County was the 5 th highest in assessed value Statewide and 4th highest in population based upon the tax rates. Commissioner Ellison stated he had spoken to Assemblyman John Carpenter and he felt that several entities would attempt to keep it at seven cents. Cash Minor noted that 2 to 2.5 cents increase would be the correct range to be at the 8 cents. Debbie Armuth noted that if they transfer in the disproportionate share money, it would make the 8 cents based upon current assessed value. Commissioner Ellison noted that the Governor may pass the 8-cent cap Statewide. Cash Minor noted that there was another group of indigent expenses that the governor cap did not apply. Commissioner Ellison inquired about sufficient revenues to address those expenses. Debbie Armuth stated the 1.5 cents tax would generate $131, after they had addressed the Carlin tax cap. Commissioner Ellison noted that when the South Fork bond was paid off, they would break even. Debbie Armuth stated the South Fork bond was not quite a cent. She reported that the youth services had rose. Commissioner Ellison believed they would not be raising taxes to the taxpayer. Debbie Armuth PAGE 4

5 stated they would be raising taxes by 1.5 cents, and if they passed that the difference would be the She stated that would be a 6.5 cents rate. Commissioner Ellison inquired if that covered the long term care. Cash Minor noted the long term care was included within the indigent program. Cash Minor noted that the was the operating rate for the County. Debbie Armuth noted that was the current tax rate for the operation of the County. She noted the overrides on the worksheet list for the Senior Center, the Jail Special Revenues and the South Fork bond. The medical assistance to indigent could be between 6 cents to 10 cents. The hospital care was 1.5 cents. Debbie Armuth stated the Ad valorem was currently at 5 cents. She stated the Youth Services Assessment went to the China Springs Youth Facility. Commissioner Myers noted was their current County tax rate. On July 1 st the South Fork bond would come off which would reduce the taxes. He noted that Debbie Armuth had suggested 1.57 cents to maintain the existing tax rate of.8262 to obtain the additional money for the indigent fund. Commissioner Ellison inquired if they could take the medical indigent from.8 to.7. Cash Minor stated they would look at 1 cent rather than 2 cents. However, he believed they would need 2 cents to solve the funding problems and noted they could not pay the indigent hospital bills currently. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired what was the money transferred in. Cash Minor stated it received the 6 cent tax rate and the $250, disproportionate share money. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about the 2.5% figure. Cash Minor explained that the 2.5% equated out to $250, for the disproportionate share money. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that South Fork was almost 1 cent and if they increased the tax for the indigent then there would be minimal effect to taxpayers. Commissioner Ellison inquired about the Capital Improvements increase. Debbie Armuth stated that they generate the $462,233 Ad valorem and then they distribute about $210,000 to the other entities. She stated the County kept the difference and currently that amount was being applied to the debt service. She stated it had been a good mechanism for them to use for debt service because it was a reliable source of revenue. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about the South Fork bond rate. Commissioner Ellison noted South Fork was Debbie Armuth agreed with Commissioner Ellison that they would not dramatically raise the taxes due to the South Fork bond dropping off. Debbie Armuth noted the increase of Youth Services assessment of Commissioner Ellison inquired if the Board wanted to increase the tax rate for medical indigent at 1.75 rather than 2 cents. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if there were any other mandates that may come before them. She noted there were a lot of legislative bills which may affect this budget. Debbie Armuth noted the elected official salaries legislative bill was still active. Commissioner Nannini noted that they were having trouble with the 5% for the 4 years. Commissioner Ellison noted the changes to the bill from 7.5% to the 5% being currently proposed for the elected officials salaries. Cash Minor stated there was $208,000 budgeted for the projected salary increase. Cash Minor stated the proposed increase in the base salary was 36% but with the longevity it would increase to a rate of 44% for the elected officials. Cash Minor stated that Aurora Pines was fully operational now for the girls. Debbie Armuth stated that last year they increased the youth services amount to Elko County. However, they issued it in an addendum to their projections the same day the County was issuing their final projections. Because Elko County did not have sufficient notification last year, they did not have enough of a tax rate to pay that assessment last year. Debbie Armuth noted this year s rate would cover the shortfall from last year, and the rate would drop next year because last year they were PAGE 5

6 short $30, Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted the elected official s salary bill would affect their budget. Debbie Armuth suggested that they leave that projection in the budget and if they needed that amount they could always transfer it out later. Commissioner Ellison inquired about the Sheriff s and District Attorney s salary bills. Cash Minor noted that the Sheriff s salary Bill and the District Attorney s Bill were not tied together and both bills were still alive. Commissioner Ellison cautioned them that those legislative bills could come back to the budget. Commissioner Myers suggested they leave the projected funds in the budget. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if they went from 6 cents to 8-cents on the medical indigent would that increase accommodate the Governor s bill. Cash Minor replied that rate would go along with the Governor s proposal to cap the long term care at 8%. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that proposed rate increase for the indigent was still not enough. Cash Minor suggested that they go through the remaining agenda and return for board action on this item. Northeastern Nevada Museum: Debbie Armuth reviewed the current County funding mechanism and possible tax rate increase. She reviewed the worksheet and noted the contribution was up to the discretion of the board. She reported that at the previous meeting the Museum Board had requested a 1.5 cent increase which would generate approximately $129, but it would come from the County s general operating levy. Commissioner Myers noted that would increase the taxes. Commissioner Ellison inquired why this was not a voter s issue but rather a Board decision. Cash Minor stated the statute allowed them to assess up to a 5-cent tax rate and the current 2 cents tax rate was established some time ago. Commissioner Myers inquired what it would cost to add that question on the ballot. Cash Minor stated it would be the printing cost. Commissioner Russell noted that they could put it on a ballot for voter recommendation. Commissioner Myers noted they had a city election to be held in June. Commissioner Russell inquired about the cost for a special election. Win Smith stated a special election could cost more than $50, Commissioner Eklund- Brown believed they would lose the purpose of having the election. Win Smith stated that was a rough estimate. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about another election. Win Smith replied the next County election would be held in Commissioner Myers suggested that they attach it to the City of Elko s election to get an idea of voter response. He stated that even though they would not get a broad spectrum of the County vote, it would give them an idea if the community would support it. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that the Cities of Carlin and Wells were having elections. Commissioner Ellison noted that they were trying to cut services. Debbie Armuth inquired if they were asking the entire amount of 2 cents plus the 1.5 cents to be upon the ballot. Win Smith noted that the City of Elko had already began their ballot. She would have to contact the City personnel to see if their ballot had gone to print already. She reviewed the last County question applied to all the cities ballots. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that County would have to pay for it. Caesar Salicchi commented that if it was advisory question then the County would have to decide which city s ballots they wanted the question upon. Caesar Salicchi stated they could have a tax override. Commissioner Eklund-Brown felt that if it was a question to the general population it would have to be countywide. Win Smith suggested it be voted upon at the same time as the city election to save costs and she would contact the City to see if that was possible. Commissioner Russell felt there would be a problem with that due to the non representation by Spring Creek, Ruby Hills, Western Hills, and Lamoille upon that review election. PAGE 6

7 He noted they should consider hiring a firm to perform a survey of County residents opinion. Commissioner Myers noted that there were four cities that were having an election. Commissioner Nannini felt that it should be added onto the Elko City election to get an idea of the voter s response. He noted that there was no benefit to Carlin, Wells, etc. He felt if it was a general question, then they would have some idea of the feelings from the public. Commissioner Russell stated they could postpone it until the next election. Commissioner Nannini inquired where they would pay the bills because they needed the $190, now. He felt they should see if the public would support that. Commissioner Russell noted they were looking at the same thing within the county as to where would the money come from to pay the bills. Cash Minor noted they would still be past the final budget deadline to file with the State budget and they would be unable to raise the tax rate if it was placed on the election ballots. Commissioner Ellison noted that the museum had a $172,000 contribution from the taxpayers presently. Debbie Armuth noted the decrease in the assessed value affected the museum budget. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if the City was going to contribute to the museum. Commissioner Myers stated the City had postponed action until after September 1, Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted there was a recreation fund. Commissioner Ellison noted that if they consider the SnoBowl then the recreation fund would be depleted. Commissioner Ellison inquired if the board wanted to take a vote upon raising the tax for the museum or put it on the ballot. Commissioner Myers felt it was not prudent to vote on the museum override if they had not addressed the remainder of the county budget. He noted that if there was no decision made today then they could not get it on the ballot in time due to the election being past the State tax rate deadline. Commissioner Myers noted that June 5 would be the election and it would be after the final approval on the budget. He felt they needed to set aside this matter and address the remainder of the county budget first. He stated they could not take action on the museum until they reviewed the remainder of the budget. Commissioner Russell noted the museum s biggest problem was the operating expenses. He reported that the museum could get grants to perform specific projects. He noted that utilities had risen not only for the museum but also the rest of the county. Commissioner Myers request this item be held until the remainder of the budget had been addressed. REVENUE PROJECTIONS: Debbie Armuth noted this item was left over from the last agenda. She discussed the Final Revenue Projections received from the Department of Taxation and any other updates regarding revenue estimates. Debbie Armuth stated the proposed assessed valuation for FY was $924,466, She stated the net proceeds, based upon last year s operating rate, would equate to $381, which was being utilized for operating costs. She cautioned that figure was very volatile and recommended that they consider getting that removed from the operating fund and placed back into the capital projects. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted the 3% increase in property values. Debbie Armuth noted it was reflected in this but some items through the Assessor s Office were reduced. She believed that was the reason for the decrease reflected in those changes. Cost Allocation and Cost Recovery Plan: Cash Minor requested approval of FY03/04 Cost Allocation and Cost Recovery Plan. He stated that tentatively they had approved this in concept at a prior meeting. He had reviewed this PAGE 7

8 and had adjusted the governmental type funds and the enterprise funds. He felt most of these funds should pay a little over the cost allocation. He stated the first three funds that they had proposed a charge to were, the Ag Extension Fund, the Library Fund and the Juvenile Probation Fund. He did not believe that was prudent because they were treated as operating funds and the Board would have to have sales taxes, etc., applied to those three funds. Therefore, Cash Minor believed those funds should be placed at zero. Cash Minor stated the Senior Center Fund could be charged which was the 2% tax override. Because of the use of the centers, Cash Minor took the position that they would not charge them. He reported that the Regional Street and Highway would be charged $38,000 based on his calculations. The Library Special Service Fund would be charged $3, He stated that the Child Support Incentive Grant Fund was reimbursed by the 4-D program at 66 2/3%. He stated they would ask Child Support to amend their grant application so they could get 2/3 of the cost allocation of $17, reimbursed. Cash Minor proposed the following cost allocations: the Inmate Communication Fund $1,200.00; the Jackpot General Fund was $50,000; and the Jackpot Recreational Fund was proposed at $20, Cash Minor noted that there were things within this fund that did not pertain to the Jackpot Recreation so he attempted to account for those items. He stated with regards to the Towns of Montello and Mountain City he had proposed the minimum cost allocation. He stated that all Capital Project Funds were not charged cost allocation. Cash Minor stated that the Enterprise Funds for Tuscarora and Jarbidge would be charged the minimum of $ each. He stated that the Elko Ambulance Fund would be charged $12,000.00; the Solid Waste Fund would be charged at $2,000; the Jackpot Water Fund $15,000.00; and the Jackpot Sewer Fund charged at $24, Cash Minor reported that there was a lot of additional time being spent not only by this Board but by Community Development for this sewer operation. He stated that Jackpot Solid Waste Fund would be charged $10,000 through cost allocation. He noted the excess time being expended to get a new transfer station for that community. Cash Minor stated that if they eliminate the charges to Ag Extension, Library Fund and the Juvenile Probation Fund the total for cost allocation would be $195, Cash Minor stated that with regards to the Road Fund there was a statutory requirement that gas tax monies could not be used for administrative overhead. Therefore, he proposed to charge the land and building rent to the Road Fund as well as a Computer Access Charge. He stated that would total $65,000 which would have to be accounted for in their budget. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired what the total was for the cost allocation for the Roads. Cash Minor stated under the Cost Allocation Plan he was operating under the theory that the statutes stated they could not charge administrative costs. He proposed that they charge land and building rent and a computer access charge in the amount of $65, which could be paid from the Road Fund to the General Fund. He stated that if the Board decided to adopt his proposal then they would have to adjust the Road Fund budget to reflect that $65, amount. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired what the amount would be if they accepted the Road Fund proposal. Debbie Armuth replied $262,000 Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if they had discussed this cost allocation with the unincorporated cities. Debbie Armuth noted they had a potential meeting scheduled in Jackpot on Thursday but would have to reschedule it later in the month. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted the cities would not be happy but these costs were real whether hard or soft costs. Cash Minor noted the problems with entering into a Cost Allocation Program were getting them started. Commissioner Nannini felt that they were hitting PAGE 8

9 Jackpot pretty hard and felt it was too much. Commissioner Ellison inquired if the cost was $50,000. Commissioner Myers noted the amount of time spent there by staff and administration. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that Montello capital fund was $20,000 but they were not paying anything in Cost Allocation. Cash Minor stated that he took the position that no capital project funds would pay into the cost allocation funds. Commissioner Ellison inquired if Commissioner Nannini felt the $50,000 to the Jackpot general fund was too high. Commissioner Nannini replied yes. Commissioner Ellison noted they spent a lot of time on Jackpot. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired what revenues were being generated by those Jackpot funds. Commissioner Nannini noted they had to raise the water fees. Debbie Armuth stated the total revenue was approximately 1 million dollars a year for the Jackpot General Fund. She stated the Recreation Fund revenues were $543, The Jackpot Water Fund revenues were $170, The Sewer Fund Revenues were $255, and the Solid Waste revenues were $185, Commissioner Russell noted that their revenues were more than 2 million and their cost allocation was $70,000 out of 2 million dollars. Commissioner Nannini stated it was more than that amount. Debbie Armuth stated the total cost allocation to Jackpot would be $120,000 out of the 2 million dollar revenues. Commissioner Russell noted the county governmental services provided to Jackpot for that amount. Debbie Armuth stated that amount did not include their administration of their capital projects. Commissioner Ellison noted that there were capital projects coming up. Commissioner Nannini stated Jackpot was trying to build their community up with new streets, a new solid waste system, etc. Commissioner Eklund-Brown stated they were doing it on the backs of everyone else if they weren t pulling their share. Commissioner Nannini noted Jackpot was a big tax generator for Elko County. Commissioner Russell noted the other alternative was they would have to raise taxes to provide the services for Jackpot. Commissioner Nannini noted Jackpot paid for all of their charges from their funds. He stated they wanted to charge them an additional fee. Commissioner Myers noted that they do not pay for these services. Debbie Armuth stated that the County had been providing the accounting services and she could not remember the last time Jackpot increased their tax rate to pay for services. Commissioner Ellison felt everyone should pay for their services in every community. Commissioner Eklund- Brown noted that cities had their city staff and she did not believe $120,000 was a lot for the services provided. She noted that Lynn Forsberg was up there all the time. MOTION: Commissioner Myers moved that they approve the cost allocation charges minus the changes that Cash Minor has indicated for the Library Fund, the Juvenile Probation Fund, the Agricultural Extension, including the budget consideration for the land and building rental and computer charges to the Road Department. Commissioner Russell seconded the motion. Carolyn Smith, Child Support Coordinator, inquired about the $17,000 cost allocation and noted the grant application deadline was May 1 st. She stated they would have to submit a full staff accounting upon the department to receive reimbursement from the grant program. She noted that the County currently received 10% of the salaries minus the fringe benefits. She stated that they could not pinpoint the exact accounting to charge those out so if they did the cost allocation to the State, they could lose the 10% reimbursement. She noted under computer expenses they PAGE 9

10 had budgeted the same amount. She cautioned them that the State was looking at no longer utilizing the AS 400-based computer through the county and that could change any time. Debbie Armuth inquired about maintaining the computers here. Carolyn Smith stated they would maintain the computers here and warned them it would affect their budget based upon the cost allocation charge for access to the computer system. Debbie Armuth noted she and Carolyn Smith had worked on that figure for the Child Support Incentive Grant Application. Commissioner Eklund- Brown stated that if they eliminate the $12,000 then it would not be worth charging the remaining cost allocation. Carolyn Smith noted it had become an accounting nightmare to figure the percentage of electricity, heat, rent, how many copies on the copy machine, etc., for the grant application. She noted that the deadline was fast approaching on that application. Debbie Armuth stated that she would have to review the incentive grant fund because the 10% may already be accounted for within that fund. Carolyn Smith reported that from July 02 through January 03 the State had paid $31, Debbie Armuth inquired if that was the 10% and received an affirmative response from Carolyn Smith. Commissioner Myers felt that they should change the motion. Commissioner Myers moved to rescind the original motion he made. Commissioner Russell seconded the motion to rescind. MOTION: Commissioner Myers moved to approve the cost allocation charges minus the Child Support Incentive Grant Fund to be looked at it at a later date based upon the 10%, the rent and utilities, and in addition to that the Road Fund budget considerations for the land, building rental. Commissioner Russell seconded the motion. Cash Minor noted that they dropped out the Agricultural Extension, Library Fund and the Juvenile Probation Fund from their motion. Commissioner Myers amended his motion to include the Agricultural Extension, Library Fund and Juvenile Probation Fund. Commissioner Russell seconded the motion. Commissioners Myers, Russell, Eklund- Brown and Ellison voted aye. Commissioner Nannini opposed. The motion was passed by a majority 4-1 vote. Commissioner Eklund-Brown believed that staff should meet with all the town boards. Commissioner Ellison agreed. Commissioner Nannini stated that was what he had a problem with; that they had not previously meet with the Town Board and got their blessings. Commissioner Ellison felt that when they get ready for the final budget, they could adjust that. He noted that by then staff would have met with the Boards. Commissioner Russell inquired if the towns were notified of this program or were they totally ignorant of it. Cash Minor stated that the town boards were not aware of it with the exception of Jackpot. He stated that Jackpot had not seen any details but they were aware of the program. Commissioner Nannini stated that Jackpot did not have the details that they have refined to-date and they were quite worried about the effect to their overall budget. PAGE 10

11 BUDGET REQUESTS IN EXCESS OF BASE BUDGET: Debbie Armuth reviewed the departmental budget requests in excess of their base budgets. Cash Minor stressed that these requests were over and above the department s base budget. Commissioner Eklund-Brown would like to come back to this. Cash Minor noted the Board needed to address the other agenda items carried over from the past meeting last week. Commissioner Ellison reviewed those agenda items: the Sheriff s department, the Juvenile Probation Department, and the Community Health. Cash Minor noted that the Public Guardian and Clerk s full time position was upon the addendum. SnoBowl Request: Commissioner Ellison requested that they address the SnoBowl request in the amount of $20, Debbie Armuth noted that the County Recreation Fund was within their packet. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted this was a volatile fund for a long period of time. Debbie Armuth noted that the previous Boards had attempted to transfer in $100,000 into this fund. She noted that Recreational funds monies were applied to the museum. Commissioner Eklund Brown inquired if the only obligation through this fund was the upkeep of the Lamoille Grove. Debbie Armuth noted that there were the Lamoille Water and the Lamoille Grove upkeep. Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired about the gun range. Debbie Armuth believed that was the Mountain City CDBG s on the visitor s center. Commissioner Myers noted that when everything was taken out for the line items the balance would be $51, in this fund. Commissioner Myers requested clarification that the ending balance for this fund would be $145, He felt it was prudent for them to do something for the SnoBowl and also for the museum. He suggested $20, and $20, He stated that would leave $105,000 in that Recreation Fund. Commissioner Ellison noted that the SnoBowl also received tax money. Commissioner Russell felt the $20,000, and$20,000 was a reasonable amount. Commissioner Ellison inquired if these funds could be transferred to the general fund. Cash Minor stated with the exception of the room tax funding the money was transferred in from the general fund so they could return it back to the general fund. Cash Minor noted that room tax was $8, to $10, a year. Commissioner Ellison inquired if they could transfer $100,000 back to the general and award $40,000 to the SnoBowl and the Museum. Debbie Armuth stated the Lamoille Grove was not completed yet and she did not know what the sprinklers would cost so she suggested that they do not deplete that fund completely. Commissioner Russell noted they were anticipating a small revenue from the Lamoille Grove user fees. However, the project to redo the grove and the seeding would extend to the Summer and some of the revenue expected this summer would not come in. He cautioned them that they would need some money for the grove. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that she and Lynn Forsberg attended a meeting sponsored by the State Parks reviewing land, water and conservation grants that may be available to the county. Commissioner Myers suggested that $15,000 go to the SnoBowl, $15, to the Museum and $75,000 to the General Fund which would leave $40,000 within the Recreation Fund to pay the bills for the Lamoille Grove. He believed that the Museum and SnoBowl benefitted the community. MOTION: Commissioner Myers moved to transfer out of the recreation fund $75,000 to the general fund. They support the museum at $15, and support the SnoBowl at $15,000. Commissioner Nannini seconded the motion. PAGE 11

12 Commissioner Eklund-Brown inquired if they could address the two agenda items in this one motion. Gary Woodbury stated he believed they could combine the two agenda items. The motion was passed unanimously. Commissioner Myers noted this was a one-time shot and were only solving immediate problems. He cautioned them that they could not solve their long term problems. He noted that this action would put their ending fund balance for FY at $585, approximately. SHERIFF S DEPARTMENT: The Board considered approval to fill a vacant Deputy Sheriff s position in the Sheriff s Department. Sheriff Harris stated this position was for the replacement of one Deputy in Jackpot. He reported that he had one Deputy in Jackpot on extended medical leave. He stated that 6 deputies were assigned to Jackpot and now they were down to 4 deputies in that region. Commissioner Ellison inquired if he could transfer one of his deputies into that region. Sheriff Harris stated that any area they transfer from would put them short handed in that area. Commissioner Ellison noted that the budget was short and if he had to lay off a deputy that individual could be placed within the Jackpot region rather than be terminated. Sheriff Harris submitted and reviewed his worksheet inclusive of the breakdown on overtime, shift coverage, case work, etc., from July 1, 2002, to present. Robert Stokes stated he, George Boucher, Caesar Salicchi and Jerilyn Underwood comprised the Vacancy Review Committee to review this deputy sheriff s position. He stated the salary and benefits for these six employees came from the Jackpot funds. He stated one deputy had been dismissed and one officer was on extended FMLA so they were down to four deputies. He stated that the review committee knew the shape of the budget but due to these circumstances they recommended filling this position. However during their discussions, they believed the Sheriff understood within this budget year there may have to be some difficult choices made. MOTION: Commissioner Russell moved that the Commission approves one position for Jackpot for the Sheriff s Department. Commissioner Myers seconded the motion. Commissioner Russell thanked Sheriff Harris for the information upon the Sheriff s budget. Commissioner Ellison noted the Sheriff had struggled with the budget and reviewed the continuous increase in the Sheriff s budget since Commissioner Ellison commented that based upon the projections in the Sheriff s budget it would increase at 6.5% across the board for both the Sheriff and the Jail budgets. He inquired where they would come up with this. He believed that the position they fill right now would have to be taken away. Commissioner Myers noted the Town of Jackpot paid for that deputy. Commissioner Ellison inquired what the County paid for those deputies. Cash Minor stated the vehicles, training, uniforms, insurance for automobiles and services and supplies would be the County costs. Commissioner Myers noted there was already a vehicle in the area for the previous deputy. Sheriff Harris stated the vehicle would be assigned and felt that the costs would be the same. He noted there would be no additional County costs. Commissioner Ellison noted that even though Jackpot paid for one position, if the Sheriff s general fund had to be cut one deputy that deputy could be transferred to the Jackpot area. PAGE 12

13 Commissioner Russell, Myers, Eklund-Brown and Nannini voted aye. Commissioner Ellison opposed. The motion was passed by a 4-1 majority vote. ELKO COUNTY JUVENILE PROBATION DEPARTMENT: The Board considered approval to fill a Secretary/Clerk position in the Family Court Department. James Watson, Chief Juvenile Probation Officer, stated that he had reaffirmed his position to the vacancy review committee and it was a unanimous vote by that committee to fill this clerical position. Robert Stokes believed that both the Juvenile Probation Department and the Clerk s agenda items were tied together. ELKO COUNTY CLERK S OFFICE: The Board considered a request from the Elko County Clerk to increase the employment of a part-time position to a full time position. Robert Stokes stated the same four Vacancy Review Committee members reviewed both the Juvenile Department and the Clerk s request. They reviewed the need for the Clerk s services in Family Court. He stated the proposal from the Juvenile Department was to do away with a Juvenile Detention Officer position and fill the clerical position full time. He stated that this position would take care of the Family Court minutes of the Court, and provide the general secretarial services. He reported that Win Smith had previously came before the board when her clerical position had became vacant several months ago. He stated that clerical position provided services to the Family Court, and at that time the Board had approved a part-time clerk rather than a full-time clerk. Robert Stokes noted that it had become difficult for that Clerk s Office to complete all the duties in that office. Therefore, the Clerk had temporarily stopped providing services to the Family Court. Robert Stokes stated the Clerk s request was to make the part-time position a full time position and they could provide the services to the Family Court. He stated that after the Review Committee had researched the issues the four members of the committee voted unanimously to award the full time clerical position to the Juvenile Court because the Juvenile Detention position would be 2/3 reimbursed through the 4D program. Robert Stokes noted this 4D program was the same program used for child support. He stated that by this action there was a substantial decrease to the budget. He reported that the Review Committee recommended approval of the full-time position in Juvenile and not to approve the Clerk s full-time clerk request at this time. Commissioner Ellison inquired about transfers out and if there would be an increase between the two departments. Cash Minor stated they would get money back from the Juvenile Department because that position would be reimbursed at 66 2/3% from the State. Commissioner Nannini stated that they meet with both parties and found there would be no cost to the County general fund if the Juvenile Department hired a full time clerk and Win Smith would keep the parttime person. He stated that the County Clerk s office would not have to provide the service to Family Court and Jim Watson would create the position that he needed. Commissioner Myers appreciated their offer and coordination upon these positions. MOTION: Commissioner Russell moved that they have a position established as a Juvenile Department full time secretary/clerk and the Clerk s Office PAGE 13

14 would keep the part-time clerk. Commissioner Myers seconded the motion for clarification. Commissioner Myers requested that Commissioner Russell amend his motion to reflect the reduction of a probation officer. Commissioner Russell amended his motion to include the deletion of a full time probation person in the Juvenile Department. Commissioner Myers seconded the amendment to the motion. Commissioner Eklund-Brown noted that Win Smith s memo had stated the clerk, by the union s standards, had to start at $14.00 and questioned why the Juvenile Probation Department s position would start at $ She inquired if the discrepancy was because it was not a full-time position. Jim Watson noted it was not a full time Court/Clerk it was an administrative assistant position/clerk. Robert Stokes noted that Win Smith took seriously her statutory responsibilities in her office so the Review Committee had asked that Kristin McQueary review the statutes. He reported that there was a mention of this within the statutes and there was a Constitutional issue. He stated that there was a Supreme Court Case which came out of Washoe County with regard as to who had control of personnel. He stated that in essence either the Clerk Office or the District Court could control those positions. Commissioner Myers noted that the County Clerk s deputy had offered to train the juvenile clerk for the change over. Commissioner Ellison thanked the Juvenile Department and the County Clerk for working this out. The motion was passed unanimously. Chairman Ellison called a recess at 3:18 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 3:30 p.m. ELKO COUNTY COMMUNITY HEALTH: The Board considered a request for a part-time clerical assistance for the Community Health. Robert Stokes stated the County had funded part-time nurse position for 17 hours at $16.00 per hour. Robert Stokes noted that person had resigned. He stated that Margaret Boston had looked at her budget and requested that the Board consider a part-time clerical position for 19 hours at $8.00 per hour. He stated this position would perform the clerical paper work they were behind in and free the nurses to perform their duties. Commissioner Ellison inquired if this was in their budget. Debbie Armuth replied they had $14, budgeted for their nurse which would be a rate of $22.00 per hour. Commissioner Ellison inquired if they had requested City of Elko participation. Debbie Armuth stated the City of Elko had initially denied it for and suggested they resubmit their request. Commissioner Myers suggested they redo their request for the or offer to swap the public health nurse participation for the City s geothermal funding request. He stated that the part-time clerical position would help the budget. MOTION: PAGE 14 Commissioner Russell moved that they fund the part-time clerical position for Elko Community Health at $8.00 per hour. Commissioner Nannini seconded the motion. The motion was passed unanimously. Commissioner Eklund-Brown reported that the Public Health Department was short of staff and could not provide the services needed Countywide. Commissioner Myers inquired if there was any assessment upon other entities for the Public Health Nurse services. Debbie Armuth stated that Jackpot did participate before they had their own health clinic. Debbie Armuth noted that the other entities contributed to the State of Nevada but the County did not receive anything.

15 Robert Stokes reviewed a meeting sponsored by the Great Basin Primary Care Association that addressed the rural clinics. He noted that through the discussion he had learned there were approximately 8,000 to 9,000 uninsured people in the County. He stated they may hear from various parties about providing services to those uninsured people. He noted that they had talked about the County not providing support to the rural health clinics. Robert Stokes cautioned them that they may hear from those clinics in the future. Commissioner Myers inquired about health care in the City of Wells. Robert Stokes reported that the Public Health Nurse was available two days a month in the City of Wells. He reported that there were Elko residents going to the Carlin Rural Clinic due to the reduction in medical costs there. PUBLIC GUARDIAN: The Board considered a contract for legal services for the Public Guardian Office. Cash Minor noted that Debbie Harrison and Robert Wines were present to speak upon this matter. Robert Wines understood that the two-cent tax increase was for indigent medical care and assumed it also included in patient services and rest home services for elderly people. He noted what was not addressed was how to get those people in or out of those facilities. He noted that if it was an emergency, they go to the hospital but to be discharged from the hospital they have to be competent or have some competent person to check them out. Robert Wines stated that the Public Guardian addressed the adult placement services. He noted that the Public Guardian provided the elderly protective services and addressed the Social Security requests. Roberts Wines commented upon the increase of the caseload for the Public Guardian and the need for legal representation. He reported that he had provided legal services for the Public Guardian and so had four or five other attorneys within Elko. He commented upon the time expended upon these Public Guardian items, the preparation of the legal documents and the hearings which have to be held. Robert Wines reviewed the process for the appointment of a special guardian who could only be appointed for 10 days. Robert Wines commented upon the legal process to appoint a permanent guardian and hearings which had to be held for that appointment. He stated that after the Public Guardian had authority to sign for that individual then the attorney representation slowed down until next year when they have to renew the guardian appointment process. He stated that the Public Guardian was at the mercy of the bar for the attorneys to perform the legal services due to the nature of the individual qualifying for public guardianship. He stated that the problems with the medical indigents would get worse due to more of the population getting to the elderly stage. Commissioner Ellison inquired if this should come from the indigent fund. Robert Matthews stated that Debbie Harrison had requested him to speak with the Board but he did not know what fund it should come from. He noted that the people who made $ per month from Social Security were indigent. Cash Minor noted this would be paid from the general fund. He agreed with Robert Wines that people receiving $ per month were indigent but did not feel the public guardianship should be taken from the medical indigent fund. He felt it was a general fund operating expense. Cash Minor noted that last year was the first year money was budgeted for guardianship. He stated that $25,000 was budgeted last year and they had received a grant. Cash Minor stated this year that grant may not be available for this year. He inquired where they would get the funding for the cost of that office. He estimated the office cost to be about $50,000 to $70,000. He noted that this had evolved this year. Commissioner Ellison inquired why they did PAGE 15