The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in special session on Thursday, July 25, 1991, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner's Meeting Room, Lake County Courthouse, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Donald B. Bailey, Chairman; C. W. "Chick" Gregg; Richard Swartz; Catherine Hanson; and Michael J. Bakich. Others present were: Annette Star Lustgarten, County Attorney; Alan A. Thelen, County Manager; Ava Kronz, Assistant to the County Manager; Robert K. McKee, Chief Deputy Clerk; and Marlene S. Foran, Deputy Clerk.
BUDGETS/ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Mr. Don Findell, Executive Director, Environmental Services Department, addressed the Board and reviewed the revised Solid and Hazardous Waste Budget for FY 1991-92, establishing a $73/ton tipping fee for solid waste, a $30/ton tipping fee for construction and demolition/land clearing debris, and a Contingency Fund in the amount of $750,000.00.
Mr. Findell stated, at the July 11, 1991 Public Hearing on Special Assessments for Solid Waste Collection, Disposal and Recycling, the Board decided not to implement mandatory collection and special assessments at the present time, and to maintain FY 1991-92 recycling service at the current 7,600 home level. He stated that no formal action was taken, at that time, regarding the operation of the transfer stations; however, it was understood that this issue would be reexamined as part of continuing discussions on the Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Budget for FY 1991-92.
Mr. Findell stated that the decision not to implement mandatory solid waste collection and special assessments for solid waste collection, disposal and recycling will require the replacement of special assessment revenues for disposal and recycling with tipping fee revenues.
Discussion occurred regarding tonnage assumptions and calculations, as recommended in the middle estimate scenario. Mr. Findell stated that the 10% increase in unincorporated area tonnage with mandatory collection has been eliminated from the estimated tonnages, with the addition of a 2% decrease in unincorporated area waste due to resistance to increased tipping fees. Mr. Findell stated the revised total tonnage for FY 1991-92 is 127,919 tons.
Mr. Findell stated that the decision to maintain recycling service at the 7,600 home level in the unincorporated area has a positive financial impact on the FY 1990-91 and FY 1991-92 budget. He stated that maintaining the 7,600 home service level in FY 1990-91 will result in a savings of approximately $475,000.00 in contractual services and recycling container costs. He stated that the impact on FY 1991-92 will reduce the proposed recycling program budget by approximately $340,000.00; however, a tipping fee supplement, of approximately $135,000.00, will be required for the County's portion of the Recycling Grant.
Discussion occurred regarding the Mandatory Waste Collection budget and Transfer/Drop-Off stations. Mr. Findell stated that the decision not to implement mandatory collection requires a reassessment of the proposal to close the transfer/drop-off stations. He stated that the transfer/drop-off stations had a net total operating loss of $118,331.00, and a net per ton operating loss of $118.46 per ton during the last twelve months.
Mr. Findell stated that it is staff's recommendation that the operating days for the transfer stations be reduced from six to two days per week to save approximately $35,000.00, and the disposal fees be increased by three times their current rate to enhance existing revenues by $76,000.00. The implementation of these two recommendations would allow the transfer/drop-off stations to operate on a relatively self-supporting basis and have no net impact to the FY 1991-92 budget.
After discussion, Commr. Swartz suggested looking at an alternative to do away with the present curbside collection for recyclable items. He suggested using the recycling fund for locating recycling stations in the same areas that the transfer stations are located. He stated that this will provide recycling for those who wish to do so, and the County will not have the responsibility of subsidizing recycling through a higher tipping fee.
Mr. Bob Newman, a resident of Leesburg, appeared before the Board and suggested the possibility of manning the recycling and transfer stations with a private contractor. He stated that, in lieu of payment, the private contractor would receive all of the recyclable items.
Mr. August P. Strachorsky, a local resident, appeared before the Board and stated that very little space would be needed for the bins at the recycling stations.
Mr. Roy Seabring, a local resident, appeared before the Board to suggest manning the recycling stations with volunteers from civic groups and clubs in the County, which would result in no cost to the County.
Mr. Findell reviewed the Construction/Demolition/Land Clearing Debris Disposal Fees and stated the County is currently charging $20/ton for disposal of construction and demolition/land clearing debris. He stated that, based upon next year's tonnage projections, each $5/ton tipping fee increase, above the existing $20/ton, will result in a revenue increase of $117,365.00. He stated that it is staff's recommendation to increase the disposal fee to $30/ton, which would enhance the projected revenue by $234,730.00.
Ms. Jean Kaminski, Executive Director of the Homeowners Association, appeared before the Board to question if consideration had been given to the fact that construction has been down during the first half of 1991, resulting in construction debris and demolition being considerably lower.
Mr. Rod Reisman, Eustis Roofing Company, appeared before the Board and stated his company will lose $2,000.00 a month in revenue, if they continue to dump at the current disposal fee. He stated that Lake County construction businesses are unable to compete with out of County businesses for local projects, due to the landfill costs.
Discussion occurred regarding the feasibility of the County discontinuing disposal of construction and demolition/land clearing debris and allow private landfills to handle the disposal.
Mr. Milo Jackson, a resident of Leesburg, appeared before the Board and requested a breakdown of the Ogden Martin Service Fee in the amount of $7,167,272.00.
Mr. Leonard Desmond, a local resident, appeared before the Board and suggested advertising the bid process for waste haulers throughout the Country rather than just in Lake County.
Mr. Findell stated that billings by Ogden Martin have been lower than originally projected during the last two months, with August and September also expected to be lower than originally projected, primarily due to lower than anticipated interest rates. He stated that this will result in Ogden Martin's service fee billings being approximately $500,000.00 less than Ogden Martin originally projected.
Mr. Bob Swaney, a resident of Venetian Village, appeared before the Board and stated that there are three different waste haulers picking up trash in Venetian Village, which is resulting in damage to the neighborhood streets.
Mr. Findell stated that Ogden Martin has offered to accelerate their equity payment under two different options. Option #1 would bring the final twelve months of equity payments forward to FY 1991-92, and adjust the payments for net present worth, resulting in lowering Ogden Martin's projected FY 1991-92 service fee by $722,063.00. Option #2 would bring Ogden Martin's fourth and fifth year equity payments forward to FY 1991-92 and FY 1992-93, resulting in reducing Ogden Martin's projected service
fee by $794,269.00 in both FY 1991-92 and FY 1992-93. Mr. Findell stated that it is recommended that the Board accept Option #1 for FY 1991-92.
On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, the Board approved to instruct staff to continue to operate the four transfer stations on a reduced schedule, from six (6) days a week to two (2) days a week; increase disposal fees three (3) times their current rate; investigate the collocating of recycling facilities at the transfer stations; investigate the alternative of eliminating curbside recycling pending the relocation of the recycling locations at the four (4) transfer stations; and to investigate, through a Request for Proposal (RFP) or otherwise, the option to have private and/or volunteers considered in operating of said facilities.
A motion was made by Commr. Swartz, which was seconded by Commr. Bakich for purpose of discussion, to authorize staff to plan for a $30.00 tipping fee for construction and demolition/land clearing debris; to reevaluate the landfill disposal cost relative to construction and demolition/land clearing debris; and prepare a recommendation for the Board whether or not it is revenue positive or revenue negative, in order to maintain the flow control ordinance and requirement for the construction and demolition/land clearing debris to go to the County landfill.
Under discussion, Commr. Gregg suggested doing away with a construction and demolition cell in planning for a new County landfill, and using private industry landfills for the purpose of construction and demolition/land clearing debris. Commr. Gregg stated that he would like to have Commr. Swartz's motion include said language.
Commr. Swartz agreed to include in his motion Commr. Gregg's suggestion to investigate a new County landfill, using private industry landfills for the purpose of construction and demolition/land clearing debris.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried unanimously.
Commr. Gregg made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to accept Option #1 to accelerate the equity payment from Ogden Martin Systems of Lake County, Inc., which would bring the final twelve (12) months of equity payments forward to FY 1991-92.
Under discussion, Commr. Swartz stated that he would not support the motion due to the fact that the Board will be considering, within a week, to review the entire incinerator project, and could not support moving forward an equity payment under those circumstances. He stated this is a decision that should not be made prior to dealing with the incinerator issues.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was carried.
Commr. Swartz voted "No".
On a motion by Commr. Bakich, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, the Board approved not to hold any collections on Household Hazardous Waste for the remainder of FY 1990-91, and delay collections into FY 1991-92.
At this time, Commr. Hanson brought up for discussion the appropriate time for direction to be given to staff regarding renegotiations with Ogden Martin Systems of Lake County, Inc. on the financial issues of their contract with Lake County.
Mr. Al Thelen, County Manager, recommended renegotiations with Ogden Martin occur after the August 6, 1991 Board of County Commissioners meeting, at which time, a study will be presented by the Financial Advisor regarding the feasibility and cost of a proposed study on the Solid Waste Program.
Commr. Gregg stated that a member of the Board should be involved in the renegotiation process with Ogden Martin.
On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Bakich and carried unanimously, the Board approved to reduce the contingency fund from $1,026,026.00 to $750,000.00.
Discussion occurred regarding setting a tentative solid waste tipping fee at $73.00 per ton.
A motion was made by Commr. Bakich, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to approve a tentative tipping fee at $73.00 per ton.
Under discussion, Commr. Swartz stated that he would not support a tonnage tipping fee until all of the alternatives have been explored, and he is convinced that there are not less expensive alternatives to dealing with solid waste disposal.
Mr. Claude Smoak, a resident of Clermont, appeared before the Board and stated that numbers being given to the news media are inconsistent and confusing to the residents of the County. Mr. Smoak stated that he supports Commr. Swartz's suggestion not to adjust the tipping fee until the Board can determine that it is absolutely necessary.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was defeated by 4 - 1 vote.
Commr. Swartz, Commr. Gregg, Commr. Hanson and Commr. Bailey voted "No".
Commr. Swartz made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Gregg to maintain a tentative tipping fee at $40.00 per ton, until such time as the study, which is proposed, and to be approved on August 6, 1991, is completed; and the Board has acted on the recommendations of said study.
Under discussion, Commr. Gregg stated that he does not want Commr. Swartz criticizing the Board and claiming the Board has done the cities and the taxpayers a disservice by being irresponsible.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried.
Commr. Bakich voted "No".
RECESS & REASSEMBLY
At 11:10 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess and reconvene at 11:15 a.m.
BUDGETS/OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET
Commr. Bailey opened the Budget Workshop by stating (for the record) that he would like to see consideration given to at least a ten percent budget decrease in the FY 1991-92 budget. At this time, discussion occurred regarding various budget decreases, consolidation of departments, incentives, and the possibility of a three and five year budget.
Ms. Eleanor Anderson, Executive Director, Administrative Services/Budget appeared before the Board to present the workshop on the tentative budget for FY 1991-92.
Ms. Sheryl Kasten, Budget Analyst; Ms. Lois Martin, Personnel Director; and Ms. Lisa Ford, Budget Analyst; were present to answer questions presented by the Board.
Ms. Anderson stated that revenue projections have been decreased by $359,389.00 for the current fiscal year from what was presented to the Board in the tentative budget. She stated that revenue projections proposed for FY 1991-92 have also been adjusted, with the major decrease in State Revenue Sharing, in the amount of $400,000.00, and a reduction of $200,000.00 in the proposed user fees, based on a more in depth analysis by OMB. Ms. Anderson reviewed other reductions that have been made, for a total of $338,402.00. She stated that, in order to balance the budget, contingency has been lowered from $836,898.00 to $518,735.00.
Ms. Anderson stated that an additional eight positions have been eliminated in the General Fund, since the original budget presentation. She stated there is a total of 410 positions in the budget for FY 1991-92, with the following proposed additions: One Secretary II in Purchasing; one Facilities Technical Operations Technician in Parks and Facilities; and fifty-one additional positions for Corrections.
Ms. Anderson reviewed additions and reductions to the proposed budget, indicating a reduction in fees for service in the amount of
$200,000.00. Commr. Bailey stated that he would appreciate a breakdown of the $200,000.00 reduction in fees for services.
Ms. Anderson addressed a number of questions and issues that were presented during the July 8, 1991 budget workshop, at which time, discussion occurred regarding the State Mandated Constitutional Officer salary increases, indirect costs to the Transportation Trust Fund, Telecommunications, Capital Equipment, Revenue User Fees, Personnel, and Section 8 Housing.
Ms. Anderson stated that there was a projected amount of $400,000.00, under Revenue-User Fees, which has been included in the tentative budget based on a report prepared by David M. Griffith and Associates, Ltd. She stated that a more in depth review of the proposed fees has been completed and, using the full cost shown in the report, the fee schedules have been adjusted.
Ms. Ford stated that the in depth review indicates a revised figure total of $200,000.00, rather than $400,000.00 as projected, and reviewed her methodology at arriving at the revised figures.
Ms. Martin stated that two positions in Environmental Services and two positions in Planning & Development have been eliminated, resulting in a personal services reduction to the General Fund in the amount of $121,562.00. She stated that further review of the staffing phase-in schedule for Corrections has produced an $80,428.00 reduction, based on the deletion of one Clerical Assistant III, and three positions associated with the proposed Work Release Program.
Ms. Kasten presented a brief history on Section 8 Housing issues, stating that the program began in 1976 with 40 unit certificate approval for the Lake County area, to be administered by one Housing specialist and one Secretary. In 1978 and in 1980, application was made and approved for an additional 40 unit certificate. She stated that in 1987, the Eustis Housing 71 unit certificate program was consolidated with Lake County, bringing the total number of certificates administered to 191. Ms. Kasten stated in 1989, 13 additional vouchers were approved and in 1990,
22 additional vouchers were approved to bring the Agency to the current total of 224 certificate/vouchers for the Lake County area. She stated that the number of certificates administered has increased by 460%, with no increase in staff.
BUDGETS/FIRE PROTECTION/HEALTH & GENERAL SERVICES
Mr. Lonnie Strickland, Director of Health & General Services, appeared before the Board to address and review the proposed FY 1991-92 Fire/Rescue Budget and presented recommendations for reduction of the budget.
Mr. Strickland stated that the first option involves six reductions in appropriations and one additional cost item, for a net reduction of $730,622.00. Mr. Strickland stated that the six reductions include: Elimination of five (5) vacant fire suppression positions and pay for temporary fill-in fire fighters and all overtime; elimination of contingency reserve; elimination of requested new position of fire mechanic; elimination of funds budgeted for mandatory solid waste collection; reduced funds allocated for providing food and beverage for emergency personnel at extended scenes; elimination of seven (7) filled fire suppression positions; and the additional cost incurred by employee layoffs.
Mr. Thelen stated that the second option addresses the use of $242,850.00 from the reserve account, and the layoff cost to fund the seven positions that were earmarked for layoff in the first option, and handle future reduction in force on an attrition basis.
Commr. Hanson brought up for discussion a number of concerns presented to her by the public, which include the need for a paid fire mechanic, the Sorrento fire station being left unattended, and the issue of Level of Service (LOS) if the seven (7) filled fire positions are not terminated.
Discussion occurred regarding the position of a fire mechanic, and the importance of filling said position, at which time, Mr. Thelen suggested one approach for consideration would be to fill the position of fire mechanic as soon as a vacancy becomes
available. He stated that another approach would be to use reserve funds.
Mr. Claude Smoak, a resident of Clermont, appeared before the Board to publicly thank the members of the Lake County volunteer fire departments for providing dependable responses and for their efforts. Mr. Smoak stated that he feels it is important that the Board adopt a pay schedule for volunteer fire fighters, as a clarification of the public's appreciation of their efforts. Mr. Smoak addressed the issue of the contingency reserve, the elimination of seven (7) filled fire suppression positions, and fire fighting equipment. Mr. Smoak stated that it is difficult to determine the bottom line needs of the Fire/Rescue Service, and suggested the feasibility of one of the Commissioners personally doing a hands on analysis of the Fire/Rescue Service.
Mr. Bob Newman, a resident of Leesburg and a member of the Lake County Taxpayers League, appeared before the Board and stated that the League would like to propose setting up voluntary taxpayer committees to question and challenge the County budgets for the purpose of aiding the Board in decisions which need to be made. Mr. Newman stated that the budgets reflect empire building, and reviewed various departments and the number of employees within each department. He suggested using the surplus, within the budget, toward paying off debts in lieu of the proposed renovations and improvements to County buildings.
Mr. Pearl McCreary, a local resident, appeared before the Board and stated that he does not feel there is a need for fifty-three (53) new positions, as proposed in the FY 1991-92 budget, and questioned the need for a County Manager.
At this time, Commr. Swartz responded to many of the concerns addressed by those who appeared before the Board.
Commr. Gregg stated there is a serious problem with staff not following the philosophy and position of the Board of County Commissioners. He stated that the philosophy of a part time Board of County Commissioners is in the best interest of the County, and
the only way to adequately manage County government is through a professional County Manager, with the Board acting as a Board of Directors.
Commr. Bakich made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to accept Option Two; and through attrition and the front office line, consider the position of fire mechanic for fire services, if acceptable to the Board.
Under discussion, Commr. Gregg suggested looking at consolidation of repair services, stating that there are mechanics in every department, and an extensive motor pool in Public Works.
Mr. Jim Stivender, Director of Public Works, stated that the fire mechanic has used the Public Works shop on occasion, but is usually in the field repairing equipment.
Commr. Swartz suggested that staff review and evaluate the feasibility of consolidating repair services; but, if it is determined that it will not be feasible in Public Works, fund the fire mechanic position out of the fund balance; looking at any attrition that occurs with other employees on a per basis, determining if they are essential to fire fighting service; and if positions are left vacant, the money will return to the fund balance.
Commr. Bakich amended his motion to include funding the fire mechanic position out of the fund balance, looking at any attrition that occurs with other employees on a per basis, determining if they are essential to fire fighting service; and, if positions are left vacant, the money will return to the fund balance.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried unanimously.
Commr. Hanson stated that she would like to see the Fire Advisory Committee reactivated on a Countywide basis, with representatives from each District on the Committee.
PROPERTY APPRAISER
Mr. Ed Havill, Property Appraiser, addressed the Board regarding the issue of the transfer of non-ad valorum tax administration to the Property Appraiser's office.
Mr. Havill reviewed two agreements dated 1984 and 1985 between the Lake County Board of County Commissioners; Mr. Ed Havill, Property Appraiser; and Diversified Government Systems, the computer consultant to do the programming for the County. Mr. Havill stated that his office is prepared to handle the non-ad valorum tax administration at no charge to the County, but his office must have the computer equipment necessary for the administration of the non-ad valorum assessment tax.
Commr. Gregg stated that he supports giving possession of the County's computer hardware to the Property Appraiser's office.
Mr. Havill stated that the Property Appraiser's office would like direction from the Board on a number of questions presented in a memorandum, dated July 25, 1991, regarding Fire Tax Administration.
Mr. Havill stated that he will pledge to do the non-ad valorum that is passed by referendum in the County or dictated from Tallahassee, but he will not administer non-ad valorum which is passed by a Public Hearing Ordinance.
Commr. Swartz stated that, before he can support returning the computers, in question, over to the Property Appraiser's office, he recommends that staff determine if there are any benefits to the County in keeping the computers.
Commr. Hanson made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Gregg, to turn the computer equipment over to the Property Appraiser's office for the purpose of handling the Fire Tax Administration, and to shut down the operation of the Special Assessment Office.
Under discussion, Commr. Bakich asked staff to review the purpose for which the County needs the computer equipment, with Mr. Strickland responding that the computer equipment provides the
ability to accurately count fire responses and provides accurate data for updated planning.
Mr. Havill stated that his staff will provide reports of updated fire service information as needed.
The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried unanimously.
Mr. Jack Swan, a local resident, appeared before the Board and asked for clarification on the issue of sending the $35.00 fire assessment to mobile home park owners and not directly to the mobile home owners.
Mr. Ray Seabring, a local resident, appeared before the Board and suggested that all computer equipment purchased for the County, be purchased from the same manufacturer, insuring that the equipment has the capability to interact with each other. He requested clarification on why the County is subsidizing cities for hauling the cities' solid waste to the landfills and incinerator, and the effect this will have on the unincorporated residents of the County. At this time, Mr. Thelen responded to his concerns.
Ms. Susan McClure, a resident of Lady Lake, appeared before the Board and presented a number of questions on the billing of the $35.00 fire assessment on mobile park owners. She stated that it appears that mobile home park owners are being billed for structures they do not own. Ms. McClure then stated clarification should be made available on what consists of a vacant lot.
PROPERTY APPRAISER/MEETINGS
Ms. Eleanor Anderson, Executive Director of Management/Budget, addressed the Board and stated that the Board is required to set the tentative millage rate and notify the Property Appraiser within thirty-five days from certification of value July 1st.
Ms. Anderson stated that the budget is based on the tentative millage of 4.938 for Countywide; .223 for Northlake Ambulance District; and 4.000 for Greater Hills MSTU.
On a motion by Commr. Bakich, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the Countywide tentative millage rate at 4.938 for FY 1991-92.
On a motion by Commr. Bakich, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously, the Board approved the Northlake Ambulance District tentative millage rate at .223 for FY 1991-92.
On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the Greater Hills MSTU tentative millage at 4.000 for FY 1991-92.
On a motion by Commr. Gregg, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously, the Board approved the first Tentative Budget Public Hearing to be held on September 3, 1991 at 6:30 p.m.; and the second Tentative Budget Public Hearing to be held on September 17, 1991 at 6:30 p.m.
APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES
On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Gregg and carried unanimously, the Board approved to authorize the Chairman, Commr. Bailey, to make the necessary appointment to the Florida Department of Elder Affairs Advisory Council.
COMMISSIONERS/MEETINGS
Discussion occurred regarding the scheduling of a workshop on the Board of County Commissioner's Agenda for the remainder of 1991, at which time, it was the decision of the Board to schedule a meeting on July 30, 1991 at 9:00 a.m., to be held at the Mission Inn.
There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.
______________________________
DONALD B. BAILEY
ATTEST:
____________________________
JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK
msf/7-25-91/8-26-91
The Lake County Board of County Commissioners held a special Townhall Meeting on Thursday, July 25, 1991, at 7:00 p.m., at the East Lake County Community Building, Sorrento, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Donald B. Bailey, Chairman; C. W. "Chick" Gregg; Richard Swartz; Catherine Hanson; and Michael J. Bakich. Others present were: Annette Star Lustgarten, County Attorney; Mr. Al Thelen, County Manager; Ava Kronz, Assistant to the County Manager; and Marlene S. Foran, Deputy Clerk.
It was noted that, in addition to the department heads and staff members present, there were approximately 100 individuals from the local community present.
Ms. Pat Finch gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Ms. Judy Paul opened the meeting by introducing the East Lake County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and held a brief business meeting. At this time, new members of the Chamber of Commerce were presented plaques.
Commr. Catherine Hanson (District IV Commissioner) introduced the Board of County Commissioners and Mr. Bill Bond, from the Orlando Sentinel. Mr. Al Thelen, County Manager, introduced County staff that were present.
Department of Public Works
Mr. Jim Stivender, Director of Public Works, appeared before those present and presented a brief overview of completed, current and future road projects, and future Department of Transportation (DOT) projects.
Mr. Stivender reviewed various countywide paving and resurfacing projects, such as the Waycross Road, Wesley Road, Park Avenue and C-44A projects. He stated that the Dora Pines Improvement Project consists of paving roads in Dora Pines through
a court order, using accrued interest from an account which was left by the previous owner. Mr. Stivender, at this time, reviewed future projects on County Road 437, Round Lake Road, Abrams Road and East Lake Seneca. He stated that future DOT projects include resurfacing and construction of a new section of the road on a portion of SR-46; construction of right turn lanes on US-441 at the Wolf Branch Road and Robie Road Intersections; and a planning study for SR-44 from US-441 to the Volusia County Line.
It was brought to the attention of staff that there have been numerous fatal accidents at the intersection of County Road 437 and SR-44, with Mr. Stivender responding that he would pass the information on to the Department of Transportation.
Mr. Stivender answered questions, presented by those present in the audience, regarding various roads in the area, and time frames for the projects that were previously reviewed.
Health and General Services
Mr. Lonnie Strickland, Director of Health and General Services, appeared before those present and presented an update on the Fire Protection Service.
Mr. Strickland stated that it will not be necessary to lay-off any full time employees during FY 1991-92. He briefly reviewed reductions that will occur in the budget, which will include the elimination of five (5) vacant fire suppression positions in existence prior to July 25, 1991; pay for temporary fill-in fire fighters and all overtime; elimination of funds that had been budgeted for solid waste collection; and reduced funds allocated for providing food and beverage for emergency personnel at extended fires. He stated that it was the decision of the Board to fill the Fire Mechanic position.
Commr. Hanson suggested that the Board review the elimination of pay for temporary fill-in fire fighter positions and give consideration to the possibility of adding them back into the FY 1991-92 budget.
Mr. Strickland stated that the budget includes an allotment of $50.00 per month per volunteer, for volunteer response to fire calls, at a cost of approximately $215,000.00. He stated that a formula will be used for disbursement of said funds, but will not exceed $50.00 per volunteer per month.
At this time, Mr. Strickland responded to questions and comments, presented by those present in the audience, regarding Fire Protection issues such as level of service, vacant/unimproved land, equipment, ambulance service, and the volunteer fire service program.
Environmental Services
Mr. Don Findell, Executive Director, Environmental Services Department, appeared before those present and reviewed the Solid & Hazardous Waste Management Program.
Mr. Findell stated that it was the decision of the Board not to implement mandatory solid waste collection and special assessments for solid waste collection, disposal and recycling, which will require the replacement of special assessment revenues with tipping fee revenues. The Board also decided to maintain FY 1991-92 recycling service at the current 7,600 home level.
Mr. Findell reviewed briefly the operation of the transfer stations, stating that the operating days for the transfer stations will be reduced from six to two days per week, and disposal fees will be increased to three (3) times their current rate.
At this time, Mr. Findell responded to questions and comments, presented by those present in the audience, regarding the need for a transfer station in East Lake County, and issues regarding the incinerator.
Budget Issues
Mr. Al Thelen, County Manager, appeared before those present and gave a brief update on the tentative FY 1991-92 County budget.
Mr. Thelen stated that the millage rate for the County's General Fund has been set at 4.938 mills, which is the same levy as last year. The Ambulance levy has been set at .223 mills,
resulting in no increase in property tax based on the County's levy. He stated that the budget, which has been adopted for the General Fund, is approximately $37,000,000.00, resulting in a 1.3% decrease over last year's budget.
Mr. Thelen stated that the new Justice System and the Courts Building have had a major impact on the budget this year, due to fifty-one new positions for the new jail and the operating cost for both facilities.
At this time, Mr. Thelen responded to questions and comments, presented by those present in the audience, regarding the increase in new employees, and the offices of the Tax Collector and Property Appraiser.
Planning & Development
Mr. Larry Kirch, Director of Comprehensive Planning, appeared before those present to present an update on the Lake County Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Kirch stated that the Comprehensive Plan became effective July 16, 1991, and was delivered to the Department of Community Affairs in Tallahassee on July 20, 1991. He stated that a determination will be made within forty-five days whether the plan is in compliance.
Mr. Don Griffey, speaking as a member of the Urban Node Development Committee, appeared before those present to report on the progress of the Urban Node Development Committee, which is a committee consisting of local residents of the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento area. He stated that a land use map for the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento Urban Node has been drawn, and an Orlando Engineering firm is in the process of creating a professionally drawn land use map. He stated that the committee will schedule public hearings for the purpose of community input once the map is completed. The map will then be submitted to Mr. Larry Kirch, Director of Comprehensive Planning, for the purpose of forming a Community Development Plan for the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento Urban
Node, and then be presented to the Board of County Commissioners for their approval.
There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
_______________________________
DONALD B. BAILEY, CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
______________________________
JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK
MSF/7-25-91/9-4-91