A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 4, 2007

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 4, 2007, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida.  Commissioners present at the meeting were: Welton G. Cadwell, Chairman; Jennifer Hill; Debbie Stivender; Elaine Renick; and Linda Stewart.  Others present were: Sanford A. (Sandy) Minkoff, County Attorney; Cindy Hall, County Manager; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, County Manager’s Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

Reverend Karen Burris, from the Morrison United Methodist Church, in Leesburg, gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

AGENDA UPDATE

Ms. Cindy Hall, County Manager, informed the Board that Tab 21, a presentation on the Supervisor of Elections’ new voting system, was being pulled until a later date, due to the fact that it was not yet ready for a demonstration; and that she was postponing Tab 26, a request from Public Works for approval of an agreement with The Landings at Lake Harris, LLC, regarding construction of a new road from CR 448 south, to serve the Lake Harris Groves development within the City of Tavares, until the Board Meeting scheduled for October 2, 2007.

MINUTE APPROVAL

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of August 7, 2007 (Regular Meeting), as presented; and the Minutes of August 14, 2007 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

            CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

List of Warrants

Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 (1) of the Florida Statutes, which shall be incorporated into the Minutes as attached Exhibit A and filed in the Board Support Division of the Clerk's Office.

Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases

Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases for the month ending July 31, 2007, in the amount of $191,383.41.  Same period, last year: $165,639.91.

Notice Before the Florida Public Service Commission

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Notice Before the Public Service Commission – In re: Application for increase in water and wastewater rates in Alachua, Brevard, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Marion, Orange, Palm Beach, Pasco, Polk, Putnam, Seminole, Sumter, Volusia, and Washington Counties, by Aqua Utilities Florida, Inc.

            Docket No. 060368-WS, Order No. PSC-07-0638-PCO-WS, Issued August 6, 2007.

            Order Granting In Part and Denying In Part Aqua Utilities Florida Inc.’s Motion For Extension Of Time To File Response To Joint Motion To Dismiss And Request For Expedited Ruling.

Annual Financial Audit Report for Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006 for Estates at

Cherry Lake Community Development District

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Annual Financial Audit Report for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006, for the Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District, pursuant to Section 11.45 and Section 189.418, Florida Statutes.

            Unclaimed Excess Proceeds for Tax Deeds

            Request to acknowledge receipt of unclaimed excess proceeds for tax deeds totaling $84,758.88.

            Ordinances from Town of Lady Lake

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Ordinances from the Town of Lady Lake, as follows:

            Ordinance No. 2007-13, voluntarily annexing property, being approximately 5.60 acres of land owned by Helen Henry, located at 40248 County Road 25, into the corporate limits of the Town of Lady Lake.

            Ordinance No. 2007-14, pertaining to comprehensive planning in the Town of Lady Lake, amending Town of Lady Lake Ordinance No. 81-8-(83), which established the Town of Lady Lake Comprehensive Plan, providing for a small scale Future Land Use Map amendment.

            Ordinance No. 2007-15, redesignating zoning classification for certain property owned by Helen Henry, located within the town limits of the Town of Lady Lake, rezoning subject property located on County Road 25 from Lake County Ranchette to Lady Lake Planned Commercial (CP).

            Ordinance No. 2007-22, providing for local implementation of the water conservation rule for landscape irrigation of the St. Johns River Water Management District; providing definitions, landscape irrigation schedule, exceptions to the schedule, variances from the specific day of the week limitations, enforcement of the Ordinance, and penalties for violation of the Ordinance.

            Resolution from Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District Regarding

            Meetings of Board of Supervisors

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Resolution No. 2007-17, from Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District, designating dates, times, and locations for the regular meetings of the Board of Supervisors for the Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District for Fiscal Year 2007/2008, in accordance with Section 189.417(1), Florida Statues.

            Notice Before the Florida Public Service Commission

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Notice Before the Florida Public Service Commission – In re: Application for increase in water and wastewater rates in Alachua, Brevard, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Marion, Orange, Palm Beach, Pasco, Polk, Putnam, Seminole, Sumter, Volusia, and Washington Counties, by Aqua Utilities Florida, Inc.; Docket No. 060368-WS; Order No. PSC-07-0656-PCO-WS; Issued: August 14, 2007.

            Meeting Notice from Southwest Florida Water Management District

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Meeting Notice – Agenda for Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board Meeting for August 28, 2007, to be held at 9:00 a.m., at the Brooksville Headquarters, 2379 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida; and Approved Minutes of the Meeting of the Governing Board, held on June 26, 2007.

            Lake County Water Authority Draft Tentative Budget for FY 2007/2008 and Notice

            of Budget Hearings

            Request to acknowledge receipt of copy of Lake County Water Authority Draft Tentative Budget for 2007/2008; and Notice of Budget Hearings, as follows:

            Tentative Budget Hearing, at 5:05 p.m., September 12, 2007, BCC Chambers

            Final Budget Hearing, at 5:05 p.m., September 26, 2007, BCC Chambers

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

Budget

Request for approval of Budget Change Requests and Unanticipated Revenue Resolution, as follows:

1.                  Budget Transfer – Affordable Housing Assistance Fund, Department of Community Services.  Transfer $37,440 from Operating Supplies to

            Regular Salaries.  On July 10, 2007, the Board of County Commissioners approved the receipt of $5 million in grant funding for the Tornado

            Disaster Assistance Program.  Community Services is requesting three temporary positions (not to exceed six months’ duration) to assist with

            preparing income eligibility determinations for Tornado Housing Assistance Program clients.  The total cost for three positions is $37,440.  The

            positions will be 30 hours per week.  Funds available in the Operating Supplies account.

2.            Parks Capital Projects Fund:

                        To:       Improvements Other Than Buildings                  $5,601,684

                        From:   Improvements Other Than Buildings                  $5,601,684

                        Park Impact Fee Trust Fund – North District:

                        To:       Improvements Other Than Buildings                  $   298,316

                        From:   Improvements Other Than Buildings                  $   298,316

                        Total                                                                            $5,900,000

                        Unincorporated MSTU – Parks Fund:

                        To:       Improvements Other Than Buildings                  $     29,777

                        From:   Machinery and Equipment                                 $     29,777

                        Total Transfer:                                                              $5,929,777

                        Budget Transfer – Parks Capital Projects Fund and Park Impact Fee Trust Fund – North District, Department of Public Works.  Transfer

                        approved budget for North Lake Community Park ($5,900,000) into a project account from Capital Reference Code PN-0701, to assist with

                        tracking revenues and expenditures.

                        Budget Transfer – Unincorporated MSTU - Parks, Department of Public Works.  Transfer $29,777 into the North Lake Community Park

                        project, to pay for Road Impact Fees associated with the North Lake Community Park planned improvements.  Funds available in Machinery and

                        Equipment from cost savings from purchases.

            3.         Capital Substitution – County Fire Control Fund, Department of Public Safety.  Substitute $100,000, approved for CRC FI-0731 (two used

                        tractor trailer trucks) in Machinery and Equipment, for CRC FI-0737 (one new tractor trailer truck).  Due to unexpected delays, the used trucks

                        are no longer available.  A capital substitution must now be processed to purchase one new tractor trailer truck for $100,000.  Funds available in

                        the Machinery and Equipment account.

            4.         Budget Transfer – General Fund, Constitutional Offices/Sheriff.  Transfer $200,000 from Contingency – Sheriff to Transfer – Law Enforcement

                        Salaries.  The Sheriff has requested to move budgeted Contingency funds into Law Enforcement Salaries.  Funds available in Contingency.

            Resolution No. 2007-125, to amend the General Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, in the amount of

            $214, deposited into Hazardous Analysis Update Contract, and provide appropriations for the disbursement for Office Supplies, to support

            county hazardous materials emergency planning and response capabilities.

            Community Services

            Request for approval for the Board to amend the Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) so as to increase the SHIP maximum awards for home repair to $60,000, with a $5,000 contingency and $3,000 available for relocation expenses, and for home replacement to $150,000, plus a $5,000 contingency and $3,000 available for relocation expenses; to extend home repair/replacement assistance to moderate income households; and to specify housing assistance available to extremely low income households.  The maximum award increases will apply to both the Home Repair/Replacement and Disaster strategies and will be retroactive to July 1, 2007.

            Employee Services

            Request for approval to renew Lake County’s Storage Tank Liability insurance policy, effective October 1, 2007.

            Environmental Services

            Request for approval of (1) Amendment 1: (a) amending the Anthropod Control FY 2006/07 Certified Budget, due to unanticipated revenue from vehicle and surplus equipment sales, and (b) transferring $2,012 from Travel and Per Diem, $60 from Books, Dues and Pubs, and $4,296 from Capital Outlay, in order to purchase more chemicals for adulticiding; and (2) Resolution No. 2007-126, recognizing unanticipated revenue from vehicle and surplus equipment sales.

            Request for approval of Annual Certified Budgets for Arthropod Control for FY 2007/08.

            Information Technology

            Request for approval of Annual Maintenance and Support Contract for Environmental Research Systems Institute, Lake County's GIS software provider.

            Procurement

            Request for approval to proceed under existing Contract No. 07-0604 with Oglesby Construction, Inc., for the  procurement of services and product, to provide countywide traffic striping and markings. It has been determined by Public Works that several roads require the striping and markings.

            Request for approval to award and execute the contract with Inwood Consulting Engineers, Inc., to provide stormwater engineering services for the Royal Trails Flood Study, in the amount of $394,100.

            Request for approval to authorize and execute Master Price Agreement Addendum No. S1523 with Sprint Solutions, Inc.

            Public Works

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Royal Equestrian Ranch Club and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Royal Equestrian Ranch Club final plat; accept a letter of credit for performance, in the amount of $145,000.00; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Royal Equestrian Development, Inc.  Royal Equestrian Ranch Club consists of 22 lots and is located in Section 28, Township 24 South, Range 26 East - Commission District 2.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for East View Estates and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the East View Estates plat; accept a check, in the amount of $14,802.65; execute a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements between Lake County and East View Holdings LLC; and execute Resolution No. 2007-127, accepting the following road into the County Road Maintenance System: Highcrest View (CR7611B).  East View Estates consists of 8 lots and is located in Section 14, Township 18 South, Range 24 East - Commission District 5.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Barrington Estates Phase 1 and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Barrington Estates Phase 1 final plat; accept a letter of credit for performance, in the amount of $819,862.19; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Barrington Estates Property Holdings, LLC.  Barrington Estates Phase 1 consists of 118 lots and is located in Section 10, Township 23 South, Range 25 East - Commission District 2.

            Request for authorization to release a performance bond, in the amount of $2,319,186.32; accept a maintenance bond, in the amount of $199,965.42; execute a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements between Lake County and TOUSA Homes, Inc., for Lo Land Assets, LP; accept a maintenance bond, in the amount of $247,995.80; execute a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements between Lake County and Rose Isle Development, LLC and Greater Lakes/Sawgrass Bay Community Development District; and execute Resolution No. 2007-128, accepting the following roads into the County Road Maintenance System: Superior Boulevard 'Part' (CR0357), Placid Place (CR0357A), Starlite Street (CR0357D), Olympia Court (CR0357E), Erie Street (CR0357F), St. Clair Street (CR0357G), Tahoe Circle (CR0357H), and Blue Mesa Court (CR0357I).  Greater Lakes Phase 1 consists of 153 lots and is located in Section 10, Township 24 South, Range 26 East - Commission District 2.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Baywood Forest and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Baywood Forest final plat; accept a performance bond, in the amount of $4,395.00; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Baywood Village LLC.  Baywood Forest consists of 16 lots and is located in Section 26, Township 19 South, Range 26 East - Commission District 3.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for St. James Place and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the St. James Place final plat; accept a performance bond, in the amount of $7,757,514.00; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Presco Associates, LLC.  St. James Place consists of 320 lots and is located in Section 23, Township 18 South, Range 24 East - Commission District 5.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Saddle Hill and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Saddle Hill final plat; accept a performance bond, in the amount of $353,705.00; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Joyce F. Buchanan, As Trustee.  Saddle Hill consists of 30 lots and is located in Section 34, Township 18 South, Range 24 East - Commission District 1.

            Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Garrett Place and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Garrett Place final plat; accept a letter of credit for performance, in the amount of $130,048.60; and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Robert C. Granger, Jr. and Mary E. Granger.  Garrett Place consists of 10 lots and is located in Section 31, Township 18 South, Range 26 East –

Commission District 5.

            COUNTY ATTORNEY’S CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

Ordinance Amending Sections 9-13 and 9-16 of the Lake County Code

Request from County Attorney for approval to advertise Ordinance creating Section 16-53, designating Lady Lake parcel for conservation use only.

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

The Chairman presented the following Employee Awards, with Ms. Kasie McAdams, Employee Services Manager, commenting about each employee’s

service to the County:

Presentation of Award to Employee with Five Years of Service

            Rebecca McCall, Library Assistant

            Community Services/Library Services/Astor Library

            Presentation of Award to Employee with Ten Years of Service

            Mary Seiter, Animal Control Officer

            Public Safety/Animal Services (Not Present)

            Presentation of Award to Employees with Fifteen Years of Service

            Kay Padgett, Office Associate IV

            Employee Services (Not Present)

            Fred Schneider, Engineering Director

            Public Works/Engineering

            Presentation of Award to Employee with Twenty Years of Service

            Marlin Stewart, Equipment Operator III

            Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area I

            Employee of the Quarter

            Rob Richardson, Radio Systems Coordinator

            Public Safety, Emergency Management

            Retirement

            Tommy Leathers

            Growth Management, Code Enforcement (Not Present)

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

            BUDGET

            RESOLUTIONS PROVIDING FOR CERTIFICATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLLS

            Ms. Regina Frazier, Budget Director, addressed the Board stating that this request was for approval of the annual Resolutions certifying the assessment rolls for the County’s six Municipal Service Benefit Units (MSBUs).

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Budget for approval and authorization for the Chairman to sign Resolution No. 2007-129, providing for certification of the assessment roll for Greater Hills Municipal Service Benefit Unit; Resolution No. 2007-130, for Greater Groves Municipal Service Benefit Unit; Resolution No. 2007-131, for Greater Pines Subdivision; Resolution No. 2007-132, for Picciola Island Subdivision; Resolution No. 2007-133, for Valencia Terrace Subdivision; and Resolution No. 2007-134, for Village Green Subdivision; providing for certified copies; providing for adoption of the Resolutions; and providing for an effective date.

            ECONOMIC GROWTH AND REDEVELOPMENT

            JOBS GROWTH INVESTMENT TRUST FUND AWARD

            Ms. Dottie Keedy, Economic Growth and Redevelopment Director, addressed the Board stating that this request pertained to an application from G & T Conveyor Company, Inc., the County’s largest manufacturing company, for a Jobs Growth Investment Trust Fund award.  She stated that they are creating 21 new positions that meet the criteria of paying at least 115% of the average annual wage for the County, with the total award being in the amount of $66,500.00.  She stated that the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) reviewed the request and recommended approval.

            On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Economic Growth and Redevelopment for approval of a Jobs Growth Investment (JGI) Trust Fund award to G & T Conveyor Company, Inc., in the amount of $66,500.00, for the creation of 21 qualifying positions, paying at least 115% of the Average Annual Hourly Wage for Lake County, or at least $16.80 per hour for Manufacturing Companies - Commission District 3.

            GROWTH MANAGEMENT

            REFUND OF EDUCATION IMPACT FEES

            Ms. Angie Thompson, Impact Fee Coordinator, Growth Management, addressed the Board stating that this request was for approval to refund education impact fees that were paid by an applicant who was exempt, but did not receive the exemption until after his building permit was issued.

            On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Growth Management for approval of a refund of education impact fees paid by an applicant who was issued the exemption after the fees were paid - Commission District 2.

            GROWTH MANAGEMENT

            RESOLUTION SUPPORTING DESIGNATION OF SR 40 AS SCENIC BYWAY

            Mr. Brian Sheahan, Acting Director of Planning and Community Design, Growth Management, addressed the Board stating that this request was for approval of a Resolution to support the designation of SR 40 as a Florida Scenic Highway and National Scenic Byway, as requested by the Florida Scenic Byway Corridor Advisory Group.  He stated that Mr. Grant Wenrick, Landscape Architect, Division of Planning and Community Design, Growth Management, worked a lot with this group, attended many of their meetings, and made recommendations to them and he wanted to recognize his efforts.

            Mr. Glenn Burns, representing the Florida Scenic Byway Corridor Advisory Group, addressed the Board stating that the group was asking for three different things, being: (1) approval of a Resolution of support; (2) a signature from a county representative on the Corridor Management Entity Agreement (CME); and (3) a designated representative from the County to attend the meetings.

            It was noted that Commr. Stewart would serve on said committee, representing the Board of County Commissioners.

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Growth Management for approval of Resolution No. 2007-135, supporting the designation of SR 40 as a Florida Scenic Highway and National Scenic Byway, including associated loop and spur roads - Commission District 5; authorized signature from the Chairman on the Corridor Management Entity (CME) designation application; and the appointment of Commr. Stewart, to attend the meetings, representing the Board of County Commissioners.

            OTHER BUSINESS

            APPOINTMENT/REAPPOINTMENTS TO PUBLIC LAND ACQUISITION

            ADVISORY COUNCIL (PLAAC)

            On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed the following individuals to upcoming vacant positions on the Public Land Acquisition Advisory Council (PLAAC), to serve three-year terms, beginning October 1, 2007:

            Members Familiar with Lake County Geography and Culture

            Ms. Judy Smathers (Reappointed)

            Mr. Bernie Yokel (Reappointed)

            Mr. Scott Taylor (Appointed – Replacing Ms. Nadine Foley)

            Members Representing the Business Community

            Mr. Jim Miller (Reappointed)

            REPORTS – COUNTY ATTORNEY

            ORDINANCE CREATING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV, ENTITLED “LOBBYING”

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that staff made changes to the proposed Ordinance, as the Board had requested, and they were now requesting approval to advertise the Ordinance.

            On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for approval to advertise the proposed Ordinance creating Chapter 2, Article IV, entitled “Lobbying”.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER – DISTRICT 3

            PERSONAL ANNOUNCEMENT

            Commr. Stivender announced the birth of her newest grandchild, Adam, who was born in Alabama on Saturday, September 1, 2007.  She stated that mother and baby are doing well.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER – DISTRICT 3

            WOODLEA HOUSE FIRE

            Commr. Stivender asked the Board to keep the City of Tavares and the Tavares Historical Society in their prayers, with regard to the Woodlea House fire that occurred over the weekend, noting that it was a devastating blow to both the City of Tavares and the County, as the house was of major importance to both of them.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STEWART – DISTRICT 4

            EARLY COALITION’S VOLUNTARY PRE-K PROGRAM

            Commr. Stewart informed the Board that on September 1, 2007, she attended the 2nd birthday party for the Early Coalition’s Voluntary Pre-K Program.  She noted that the program is a wonderful educational opportunity for children and it was well attended by the children and their families.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER CADWELL – CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 5

            INQUIRY ABOUT STEGALL PROPERTY

            Commr. Cadwell questioned whether the Board would be interested in once again approaching Ms. Emogene Stegall, Lake County Supervisor of Elections, to see if she and her husband would be interested in selling their property, which is located in the center of the downtown Tavares campus expansion project.

            It was noted that Commr. Cadwell, as Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, would approach Ms. Stegall and her husband about the matter.

            CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

            Mr. Roy Hunter, representing the Northeast Lake Chamber of Commerce, addressed the Board stating that he was a member of the Lake County Library Advisory Board and that he was concerned about the Board’s recent vote to not acquire new DVDs for the County’s branch libraries, noting that, if an individual checks out a book from a library, usually only one person will read that book; however, if that individual were to check out a DVD, usually the entire family will watch it, which will bring them closer together.  He stated that, with regard to the expense involved, if DVDs are not available in the branch libraries, the residents in those areas will go to the nearest library to acquire them and the County will be billed by those municipalities for the residents that utilize their libraries, so the County will not have saved any money in the long run - it will be a wash.  He stated that, with regard to the issue of transportation, the northeast Lake County area has been fighting for a long time to get bus transportation and, even though an average of only six people have been riding the bus so far, asked that the Board give their area another chance.

            RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

            At 9:30 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess until 5:05 p.m., for the Public Hearing on the proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2008.

            PUBLIC HEARING

            ADOPTION OF TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

            Ms. Cindy Hall, County Manager, announced the proposed millage rates, the rolled-back rates, and the difference between the two rates for the various County levies, as follows:

  • The proposed Lake County Countywide millage rate is 4.7410 mills.  The rolled-back rate for this levy is 5.2250 mills.  The Countywide millage rate is 9.26% less than the rolled-back rate.
  • The proposed millage rate for the Lake County Stormwater, Parks and Roads MSTU is 0.4984 mills.  The rolled-back rate for this levy is 0.5477 mills.  The Lake County Stormwater, Parks, and Roads MSTU millage rate is 9.00% less than the rolled-back rate.
  • The proposed millage rate for the Lake County Ambulance and Emergency Services MSTU is 0.4651 mills.  The rolled-back rate for this levy is 0.4795 mills.  The Lake County Ambulance and Emergency Services MSTU millage rage is 3.00% less than the rolled-back rate.
  • The proposed Lake County Voted Debt millage rate is 0.2000 mills.  These ad valorem tax revenues are being increased to cover the debt service costs associated with debt issued to acquire and improve environmentally sensitive lands in Lake County.
  • The County’s aggregate rolled-back rate is 6.0228.  The County’s proposed aggregate millage rate is 5.4840, which is 8.95% less than the aggregate rolled-back rate.

Ms. Regina Frazier, Budget Director, addressed the Board and gave a brief slide presentation about the County’s budget, noting that the total Fiscal Year 2008 proposed countywide budget is $567 million and, of that, the current Revenues equate to approximately $250 million, as compared to Fiscal Year 2007, which had Revenues of $246.5 million.  She stated that the $3.5 million increase in Revenues is 1.4%.  She then reviewed a breakdown of the 47 funds within the County and discussed information pertaining to some of the other types of Revenue sources.  She reviewed the Expenditure side of the budget, as well, breaking it down by the major categories and explaining some of the changes that were made.  She discussed the County’s property taxes and the fact that the County met all of the State mandates, in fact, noted that it actually exceeded it, with regard to the Countywide rate.  She indicated that there are fliers available that contain frequently asked questions and illustrate how much of the tax bill is Lake County’s, versus other entities, and thanked her staff for all their hard work during this budget cycle, noting that it was very challenging for them, due to lots of last minute changes.

Ms. Marilyn Bainter, a member of the Golden Triangle Republican Women’s Network, addressed the Board stating that their committee has been reviewing the County’s budget for several weeks and that she had some concerns about the budget, at which time she read a detailed statement outlining her concerns into the record.

Mr. Rick Roberts, a resident of south Lake County, addressed the Board stating that he was speaking for and representing the youth of south Lake County, particularly the South Lake Little League, of which he has been a Board member and a strong advocate for the past ten years.  He discussed the fact that the south Lake County area is faced with a serious need for some parks, which he noted is about to create a serious uprising by some of the parents and their children, of which there are thousands in that area.  He stated that the children have been treated like political footballs, as arguments occur about who is going to provide the needed services.  He stated that members of the Board change, but they still have the obligation to honor commitments that were made to the current residents, as well as to future residents, when the housing in the area was approved, noting that there is no commitment more important than providing for the needs of the County’s children.  He stated that park facilities are needed for the children in that area and the Board needs to find funds to make it happen.

Ms. Susan Gooch, President of the Friends of the Horticultural Learning Center (Discovery Gardens), addressed the Board stating that her group has spent the last five years raising money to build a building in the Discovery Gardens that is air conditioned and has bathroom facilities, so that they can expand their children’s programs, and have been able to raise approximately $123,000 to date towards that effort.  She stated that the Board was kind enough to give them “seed” money to get them started on the project and, since that time, they have had tremendous support for what they are trying to do.  She stated that they feel the Discovery Gardens is an extremely important step to educating the County’s children and to support teaching the public about the County’s ecology.  She stated that they signed an agreement giving the County the $123,000 of private money that was raised, to go towards the proposed building.  She thanked the Board for their support and stated that she hoped they would vote to keep the proposed building in the budget this year.

Mr. Jeff Quesenberry, a new resident in the County, addressed the Board stating that he came from the south Miami area, where he lived for many years, and was shocked to find the people in this area so friendly and nice, however, noted that one of the deciding factors of him moving here was understanding what he could afford, budget wise.  He stated that his taxes are going to double what they were one year ago and feels that the higher taxes may stop a lot of people from moving to this area, because the taxes are going to be so high that they will not be able to afford to live here.

Ms. Evelyn Lucas, a member of the Golden Triangle Republican Women’s Network, addressed the Board stating that she was concerned about various memberships for the County and some of its staff, which she reviewed with the Board, noting that she was at a hearing on August 28, 2007, where it was proposed that 10% of the memberships be cut, but that she does not feel that is adequate.  She then reviewed various areas of the budget that she felt was duplication and could be cut, saving the County a large amount of money.

Ms. Catherine Earhart, a former school administrator and member of the Golden Triangle Republican Women’s Network, addressed the Board stating that there were some statistics in the budget that alarmed her.  She stated that many of the Board members were not on the Board in previous years, but that they now hold those seats and it is their responsibility to deal with the problems that currently exist.  She stated that one area that concerned her is the enormous debt that the County has taken on, which is approximately $180 million, however, noted that, when one looks at the amount of Revenues that the County receives, it puzzles her as to how the County could encumber so much debt.  She asked the Board to look at it and ask themselves whether they would be taking on such an enormous amount of debt, if it involved their families.  She stated that she understands that the County’s budget increased 74% in the last three years, but the population only increased 15%, so there was an enormous amount of spending at the same time that a huge debt was being approved.  She stated that another finding that concerned her was the fact that there has been a 161% increase in total county taxes levied during the last five years – the fourth highest in 66 counties.  She stated that the County has established a reputation for being a county that knows how to borrow and spend money, which is something that concerns her group, as citizens of the County.  She encouraged the Board to cut beyond what they have already cut, noting that, when her group studied the budget, they found what they thought were redundancies in services, as well as programs that were not effective.  She stated that the Board is going to have to make some hard decisions.

Ms. Dallas Thompson, a resident of Lake County, addressed the Board stating that she and her husband retired and moved to the County from Maryland, but that she was shocked when she saw their tax bill this year.  She stated that they may have to move back to Maryland, because they are finding that the County is getting to where it is no longer affordable for retirees who are on fixed incomes to live.

Ms. Barbara Stam, a resident of Mt. Dora, addressed the Board stating that she and her retired husband also moved to Lake County from Maryland and were also shocked to see their tax bill this year.  She stated that they are ready to leave the State, because they are going to have to go back to work just to make ends meet.

There being no further individuals who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

Commr. Cadwell informed those present that, because of the rising costs of housing, the County had a good income coming in, but it was behind in a lot of areas and had to do a lot of catch-up.  He stated that most of the items brought up at this meeting, with regard to cuts, have been brought up at prior Board Meetings and have already been discussed.

Discussion occurred regarding budget concerns that each of the Commissioners have; the fact that, on January 29, 2008, the voters are going to be asked to make a choice regarding the Super Homestead Exemption and they are not going to know the full implication of that choice, which could affect them for years to come, so there needs to be some way to inform them before January, so that they understand what is happening and how it relates to them; the fact that some of the Commissioners feel there has not been good communication between the County and the general public about the budget; the fact that there is a basic mistrust of government; the fact that some Commissioners feel the citizens are owed an explanation as to why their taxes are not going down and the County has an obligation to give it to them; and the fact that the Board needs to have a workshop with the School Board and the cities regarding the issue of parks and recreational facilities.

Commr. Stivender stated that she felt, since everybody else was being asked to cut their budgets, the Constitutional Officers should do the same thing.

Sheriff Gary Borders addressed the Board stating that his department cut $822,000 from their budget, at which time he discussed the issue of School Resource Officers, noting that it involves an agreement between the Board of County Commissioners and the School Board.  He stated that they pay $25,000 per deputy and the County picks up the rest of the costs involved.  He stated that it was indicated that he was asking for 25 additional deputies, however, pointed out the fact that that was not correct.  He stated that only 16 of those positions were for deputies - the rest were for support personnel.  He stated that he has communicated with a couple of Police Chiefs from some of the larger cities in the County about them taking over some of the schools in their cities, noting that the Sheriff’s Department currently handles every middle and high school in the County.  He stated that, if that occurs over the next year, the Board will see a reduction in the number of deputies needed as School Resource Officers.

Commr. Renick stated that she felt it would be hard for the Board to find fault with the Tax Collector or the Property Appraiser’s budgets, noting that she feels they run a pretty tight ship.

Ms. Cindy Hall, County Manager, stated that there was some discussion about the $200,000 that was set aside for parks and the $50,000 for the National Training Center and questioned whether there would be any changes to that, or whether it would remain as it is.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, interjected that the Board would need to adopt the millages first and then, if they would like to make any amendments to the budget, they could do it at that time.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he did not feel the Board would be making any amendments to the budget at this time - that they would just clarify any questions there might be and then set a time for the meeting of September 11, 2007, to clear up any concerns, before the final budget hearing to be held September 18, 2007.

On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried, by a 4-1 vote, the Board approved the tentative millage rate for the Lake County Countywide Levy at 4.7410 mills.

Commr. Stivender voted “No”.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Lake County MSTU for Stormwater, Parks and Roads Levy at 0.4984 mills.

On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Lake County MSTU for Ambulance and Emergency Services Levy at 0.4651 mills.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Lake County Voter Approved Debt Levy at 0.2000 mills.

On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried, by a 4-1 vote, the Board approved a tentative budget of $567,171, 964 for the County.

Commr. Stivender voted “No”.

At this time, Commr. Cadwell announced that the public hearing to finalize the budget and adopt the millage rates will be held on September 18, 2007, at 5:05 p.m., in the County Commission Chambers, Lake County Administration Building, 315 West Main Street, Tavares, Florida.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

 

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                                                                        WELTON G. CADWELL, CHAIRMAN

 

ATTEST:

 

 

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JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK