A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

May 2, 2000

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 2, 2000, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner's Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Welton G. Cadwell, Chairman; Catherine C. Hanson, Vice Chairman; Rhonda H. Gerber; Robert A. Pool; and G. Richard Swartz, Jr. Others present were: Sue Whittle, County Manager; Sanford A. Minkoff, County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Administrative Supervisor, Board of County Commissioner's Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Marlene S. Foran, Deputy Clerk.

Commr. Cadwell gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

AGENDA UPDATE

Commr. Cadwell noted that a published Addendum No. 1 had been added to the agenda.

MINUTE APPROVAL

Regarding the Minutes of March 28, 2000 (Regular Meeting), the following corrections were requested:

Page 2, Line 28 - delete "County" and insert Water Authority.

Page 2, Line 29 - delete "$3,000" and insert $300,000.



On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of March 28, 2000, as amended.

Regarding the Minutes of April 4, 2000 (Regular Meeting), the following corrections were requested:

Page 6, Line 14 - delete "square" and insert linear.

Page 16, Line 24 - delete "a resident of Pine Lakes" and insert a local resident.

Page 20, Line 22 - delete "a resident of Pine Lakes" and insert a local resident.



On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of April 4, 2000, as amended.

CLERK OF COURTS' CONSENT AGENDA

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

Accounts Allowed/Courts-Judges



Request for approval of Satisfactions and Release of Fine, as follows:



Satisfaction and Release of Fine - Household Financial Services, Reduction of Order of Fine, in the amount of $3,947.00, dated March 20, 2000, and recorded in Official Records Book 1805, pages 310 and 311 of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lake County, Florida on the 21st day of March, 2000; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction and Release of Fine - First Union National Bank, As Successor By Merger With First Union National Bank of Florida, A National Banking Association, Order of Fine, in the amount of $950.00, dated February 25, 2000, and recorded in Official Records Book 1798, pages 1867 and 1868 of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lake County, Florida on the 1st day of March, 2000; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction and Release of Fine - Henry Church, Reduction of Order of Fine, in the amount of $500.00, dated March 20, 2000, and recorded in Official Records Book 1805, pages 308 and 309 of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lake County, Florida on the 21st day of March, 2000; and authorized proper signature on same.



Accounts Allowed/Courts-Judges



Request for approval of Satisfactions of Judgment, as follows:



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Angela Gardner, Case No. 91-677CFA, in the amount of $250.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 3rd day of September, 1991, and recorded in OR Book 1127, Page 2106, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Steven Elmo Brewer, Case No. 9401449CFC, in the amount of $250.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 30th day of January, 1995, and recorded in OR Book 1344, Page 1343, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Steven Elmo Brewer, Case No. 9401449CFC, in the amount of $250.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 9th day of October, 1995, and recorded in OR Book 1393, Page 0682, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Steven Elmo Brewer, Case No. 9500416CFA, in the amount of $250.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 9th day of October, 1995, and recorded in OR Book 1393, Page 0683, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Vincent Centaur, Case No. 98-1865 CFA, in the amount of $750.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 29th day of March, 1999, and recorded in OR Book 1811, Page 2069, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and OR Book 796, Page 350, of the Public Records of Bradford County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Satisfaction of Judgment - State of Florida vs. Terry Columbus McGregor, Case No. 94-757 CFA, in the amount of $250.00. This Final Judgment entered on the 8th day of August, 1994, and recorded in OR Book 1312, Page 0224, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and authorized proper signature on same.



Accounts Allowed



Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136 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.



Accounts Allowed/Reports



Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases, Month Ending March 31, 2000 - Disbursements made to Board: $151,630.46; Same period last year: $203,355.15



Reports/Budgets



Request to acknowledge receipt of Deer Island Community Development District's Annual Financial Report for units of Local Government for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998; and a copy of the District's Audited Financial Statements for the same period, in accordance with Chapter 189.006, Florida Statutes.



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA



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

Accounts Allowed/Grants/Public Defender/Sheriff

Request for approval to reallocate $8,632.00 of money awarded to Lake County under the Byrne Anti-Drug Grant from the Public Defender's Early Intervention for Juveniles I Project to the Lake County Sheriff's Project; and signature on the modification letter to the State requesting the modification.



Resolutions



Request for approval and authorization of Resolution No. 2000-62 to approve the Lake County Housing Assistance Plan for the State Fiscal Year 2000-2001, 2001-2002 and 2002-2003.



Budgets/Resolutions



Request for approval of Resolution No. 2000-63 to amend the Lake County General Fund in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 1999/2000, in the amount of $31,289.00, from the State of Florida for the update of hazardous materials data for Lake County.



Accounts Allowed/Budget Transfers/Solid Waste/Human Resources



Request for approval of budget transfer from Landfill Enterprise, Regular Salaries to Solid Waste Management Services, Contingency - Landfill Enterprise, in the amount of $8,745.00. Money needed to hire an Environmental Inspector I to provide assistance in completing Emergency Services and Solid Waste inspections, mobile home counts and other required duties, due to increased workload (half to be paid by Emergency Services).



Request for approval of budget transfer from General Fund, Unemployment Compensation, in the amount of $20,000.00 and Professional Services, in the amount of $5,000.00, to Human Resources/Personnel, Other Current Charges & Obligations in the amount of $25,000.00. The line item Other Current Charges & Obligations is currently over-expended. This line item is used for advertising, savings bonds, and employee badges. This transfer will correct the deficit plus provide funding for the remainder of Fiscal Year 1999/2000. All the funding in Unemployment Compensation is not expected to be utilized.



Request for approval of budget transfer from Greater Hills MSBU, Greater Hills MSBU - Special Reserve to Fiscal & Administrative Services, Greater Hills MSBU - Contractural Services, in the amount of $35,000.00. According to the president of the Greater Hills Homeowner's Association, Guido Costa, costly unexpected repairs are required at this time for some of the common assets of the subdivision (pool, cabanas, etc.). There are sufficient funds in the Special Reserve account of this fund set aside for this purpose.



Request for approval of budget transfer from County Fire Control, Contingency - County Fire Control Fund to Emergency Services, Operating Supplies in the amount of $50,000.00. Additional funds are needed in the Operating Supplies account to cover operating costs, which includes cost of fuel and additional equipment needed for new pumpers and brush trucks.

Request for approval of budget transfer from General Fund, Contingency - Sheriff to Constitutional Offices - Sheriff, Law Enforcement Operating in the amount of $15,000.00. Pursuant to F.S. 30.49, the Sheriff is requesting a transfer.



Request for approval of check request from the Clerk of Courts for payment of March 2000 Criminal Court Fees. The request exceeds the County Manager's approval limit of $25,000.00. Total payment is for $27,491.00.



Request for approval of Resolution No. 2000-64 to amend the General Fund in order to account for unanticipated revenue to be received, in the amount of $399,218, from Building Services Division Fees to provide for Building Services Division personnel and related operating costs.



Contracts, Leases & Agreements/Subdivisions/Planning



Request for approval of a Developer's Agreement between Lake County and Leisure Communities, Ltd. relating to the Issuance of Building Permits while Platting is in Progress to permit and start single family construction in Phase Q of Pennbrooke.



County Employees



Request for approval and execution of Certificates for employees with one year of service.



Assessments/Road Projects/Roads-County & State

Request for approval and authorization for Chairman to execute Satisfaction of Liens for five road assessments, as follows:



Assessment # Name Date Paid



685021 Leo & Nancy Steinmetz 03/13/00

685022 Terry & Bonnie Deremo 03/08/00

690012 Mary Allen 03/08/00

691066 Elma & James Harding, Jr. 03/02/00

691081 Daniel P. McKirgan 03/10/00



Accounts Allowed/Bonds/Subdivisions



Request for authorization to release a maintenance bond, in the amount of $31,972.88, that was posted for Eagleridge Phase II subdivision.



Deeds/Rights-of-Way, Roads & Easements



Request for approval to accept five Statutory Quitclaim Deeds and two Temporary Non-Exclusive Easement Deeds, as follows:



STATUTORY QUITCLAIM DEED



Commander Road #2-3212

Keith J. and Patricia B. Shamrock

Eric H. and Diane R. Coe

Muni V. Padman



Howey Cross Road #3-2441

Sandra L. White

Cyril J. Byrd

Brenda M. Shays



Keene Road #5-8165



Carolyn Jessie Corsey



Sunset Circle #4-4769



Lake Gertrude Manor Association & Water Supply, Inc.



TEMPORARY NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT DEED



Britt Road #4-4981



Gunard C. Brautcheck



Huffstetler Drive



Barney Edward Dillard, Jr.



Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases & Agreements/Subdivisions

Request for authorization to accept the final plat for Royal Highlands Phase 1-E Subdivision; acceptance of a letter of credit for performance, in the amount of $656,860.98; and to execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Pringle Communities, Inc. Subdivision consists of 96 lots - Commission District 2.



Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases & Agreements/Municipalities/Road Projects



Request for authorization to execute an Interlocal Agreement between Lake County and the City of Fruitland Park relating to Improvements of Bottomley Lane in the amount of $20,000.00.



Accounts Allowed/Bids/Road Projects/Roads-County & State



Request for authorization to advertise for bids for #3-3358 Shirley Shores Road Widening & Resurfacing Project No. 6-00, at an estimated cost of $265,000.00 from the Impact Fee Fund. Commissioner District 3, Benefit District 2.



Resolutions



Request for approval of Proclamation No. 2000-69 designating May 7-13, 2000 as National Tourism Week in Lake County.



ADDENDUM NO. 1



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA



Accounts Allowed/Budget Transfers/Fire Protection



Request for approval of budget transfer from Contingency - County Fire Control Fund to County Fire Control, Emergency Services, Operating Supplies in the amount of $25,000.00. Additional funds are needed in Operating Supplies account to cover operating costs, including cost of fuel and additional equipment for the Oil Well Road fires.



EMERGENCY SERVICES/FIRE PROTECTION

Mr. Tad Stone, Senior Director, Emergency Services, appeared before the Board to provide a status report on the 2,500 acre fire on Highway 33 South and other fires that have occurred in Lake County during the past week. He thanked the municipalities, Florida Regional Emergency Medical Service, Division of Forestry, Florida Fire Chiefs' Association, the outside cooperating agencies, and the Lake County Sheriff's Office for their assistance in battling the fires.

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

At this time, Commr. Cadwell presented the following awards and plaques, as Ms. Lourdes Ramos, Personnel Manager, provided information on each individual:

Presentation of Plaque to Employee with Five Years of Service

Andres "Andrew" Morales, Systems Analysis, Community Systems/E911

Presentation of Plaque to Employee with Ten Years of Service

James A. Story, Equipment Operator III, Public Works/Roads/Maintenance Area II



Presentation of Plaque to Employees with Fifteen Years of Service

Dennis L. Warren, Area Maintenance Supervisor, Public Works/Roads/Maintenance Area III



Karen B. Jones, Emergency Management Director, Emergency Services/Emergency

Management (Not Present)



Presentation of Plaque & Bond to "Employee of the Quarter"



Phyllis A. Hegg, Executive Secretary, Public Works/Special Services/Director's Office



PRESENTATIONS



RESOLUTIONS

Commr. Hanson presented Proclamation No. 2000-57 to Ms. Linda Rozar, Lake County National Day of Prayer Coordinator, recognizing May 4, 2000 as a National Day of Prayer in Lake County.

PRESENTATION - DIVISION OF FORESTRY

Commr. Cadwell announced that the presentation by Joseph A. Bishop, Florida Division of Forestry, Seminole State Forest, announcing plans for the Division of Forestry has been postponed.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

ORDINANCES/PLANNING

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, placed the proposed ordinance amending Chapter XV of the Lake County Land Development Regulations relating to Impact Fee Calculations for Banks and Active Adult Communities, on the floor for its final reading, by title only, as follows:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER XV OF THE LAKE COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED ROAD AND SCHOOL IMPACT FEES; AMENDING SECTION 15.00.01 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED DEFINITIONS; AMENDING SECTION 15.02.07 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED FEE SCHEDULE, TO ADJUST IMPACT FEE CALCULATIONS FOR BANKS WITH DRIVE-THRU WINDOWS, ADD THE FEES FOR CREDIT UNIONS WITH DRIVE-THRU WINDOWS AND ADD THE FEES FOR ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE LAKE COUNTY CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.



Mr. Fred Schneider, Engineering Director, Department of Public Works, and Ms. Wendy Wickwire, Impact Fee Coordinator, appeared before the Board to address questions pertaining to the current status of the impact fee study.

At this time, Commr. Cadwell opened the public hearing portion of the meeting.

There being no one present wishing to discuss this request, the public hearing portion of the meeting was closed.

Commr. Gerber made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to approve Ordinance No. 2000-25 amending Chapter XV of Lake County Land Development Regulations relating to Impact Fee Calculations for Banks and Active Adult Communities, as read on its final reading, by title only.

Commr. Swartz stated that he was in opposition to this request because the ordinance does not equalize the rates and reduces the rates for only two land uses. He explained that, if the basis of the consultant's report was that trip lengths and/or trip distances were in error, all land uses are in error because they are all based on the same trip distances and trip lengths.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried by a 4 - 1 vote.

Commr. Swartz voted in opposition.

TIMES CERTAIN

COMMITTEES/AMBULANCE SERVICE

Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee was present today to discuss an option for emergency medical services in Lake County. At this time, the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee introduced themselves, as follows: Mr. Benny Strickland, Chairman, Sumter County Commission; Mr. Bernard Duke, County Administrator, Sumter County; Mr. Gentry Richardson, Fire Chief, City of Leesburg; Mr. Jim Coleman, Town Manager, Town of Lady Lake; Mr. Robert Moore, Mayor, City of Tavares; and Mr. Shannon Elswick, Orlando Regional Hospital. Commr. Cadwell briefly discussed the structure of the proposal to be discussed today and explained that the proposal would provide joint services between Lake and Sumter Counties for the provision of emergency management services. He explained that a non-profit corporation would be established to oversea emergency medical services, pursuant to Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, and a seven member Board of Directors would be appointed which would include one representative from the Sumter County Board of County Commission, and the Lake County Board of County Commission.

Mr. Shannon Elswick explained that the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee has addressed the expenses and revenue side of the equation and have prepared a worksheet that illustrates what the net revenue shortfall would be against the projected expenses, which was the basis of the proposal before the Board at this time. He pointed out that there were significant efficiencies that were possible that have not been figured into the equation, and he has made a plea to the work group to look at upgrading the level of service with additional units and additional personnel over and above what currently exist today. He stated that discussion should occur regarding what efficiencies can be achieved through out sourcing or through other creative approaches and those dollars can be pull from the projections that we currently have on the table back into a reinvestment in the service. He stated that Lake and Sumter Counties will have to look at the issues of working capital, and other transition issues that the Committee has not begun to address. He stated that the Lake County portion of the proposal would be approximately $3,000,000, and the numbers reflect a combined number; therefore, if one county were to elect in and the other opted out, it would shift some of the overhead dollars.

Mr. Benny Strickland stated that the employees of Florida Regional Emergency Medical Services were employees with expertise and training, and many of those employees were looking for other jobs now; therefore, time was of the essence for both the Florida Regional employees and Lake and Sumter Counties.

At this time, staff was requested to provide backup materials on the proposal being discussed.

RECESS & REASSEMBLY

At 9:40 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess for ten minutes and reconvene at 9:50 a.m.

ADDENDUM NO 1

COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA

GRANTS/EDUCATION/FACILITIES & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

Mr. Mike Anderson, Senior Director, Facilities and Capital Improvements, appeared before the Board to present the approval of the Lake County Middle School Summer Assistance Grant Program for Fiscal Year 1999/2000 in the amount of $30,034.00; and approval of the Lake County Middle School Enrichment Program Exploration Stations for Fiscal Year 1999/2000 in the amount of $69,966.00. He explained that the Middle School Summer Assistance Grant Program was available countywide to help cities and non-profits that serve middle school age students to reach more at risk students. He stated that 178 students participated in the program last year. Mr. Anderson explained that the Middle School Enrichment Program will provide organized activities and transportation for Umatilla Middle School, Oak Park Middle School, Mount Dora Middle School, and Gray Middle School.

Ms. Judy Borders appeared before the Board and explained that the programs were made available to any child who wishes to attend, and transportation would be provided to those students. She briefly discussed educational field trips and recreational field trips that are planned for the students.

Commr. Hanson stated that she would be interested in an analysis of the percentage of at risk students that were involved with the summer programs.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the request for approval of the Lake County Middle School Summer Assistance Grant Program FY 1999/2000 - Municipalities and Non-Profits; and the request for approval of the Lake County Middle School Enrichment Program Exploration Stations FY 1999/2000.

COMMITTEES/AMBULANCE SERVICE (CONTINUED)

Commr. Cadwell reopened the discussion on the emergency medical services proposal that has been prepared by the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee. At this time, Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, distributed a draft illustrating the revenues, total expenses, and net equity prepared by the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee; and preliminary budget estimates prepared by staff. Commr. Cadwell briefly discussed the issue of paying for the emergency medical services plan and stated that the two ambulance portions of the tax bill could be removed and the service could be funded out of the general fund.

Commr. Hanson stated that, until we go into further discussion, she would support a designated funding source for emergency medical services.

Commr. Swartz stated that the North Lake Ambulance District was in the unincorporated area as well as in the cities. He stated that the Board has always understood that the South Lake Hospital District might be rolled back to the extent that the balance of that tax would become equal to the tax in the North Lake District so that they would be funding at the same rate as everyone else or, in the interim prior to that happening, the South Lake Hospital District would pay to Lake County an amount equal to the tax that would have been raised for ambulance service.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the issue was that the South Lake Hospital District did not want to be involved in taxing for ambulance service in the future. Mr. Minkoff noted that the County cannot create a municipal service taxing district without the approval of the municipalities.

Mr. Elswick interjected that the South Lake Hospital District rolled back its millage rate from 2 mills to 1 mill this year to coincide with the end of the ambulance contract and with the opening of the South Lake Hospital.

Mr. Robert Moore stated that the two options available to the County were to go with the private service or to form a public entity to manage and oversee the provision of ambulance services in Lake County. The non-profit organization is the preferred model because it makes it more of a transparent enterprise for the public, there is more accountability of the dollars that are going into the program, and there are significant benefits. He stated that the actual cost of the program will not be known until the committee receives further direction from the Board today and has had the opportunity to develop a business plan. He stated that the cities, based on his discussions, are on board with the option before the Board and do want to be involved with the implementation.

Commr. Swartz stated that, given enough time and some ability to provide a better level of service, the model before the Board at this time might be a good model to consider; however, he cannot see Lake County delaying implementation of this option, which appears to be a work in progress, versus another alternative that we have that can be negotiated out and put in place during the time frames that we need. He stated that the County was not providing the best level of service possible and must find a way to work with the cities that want to provide ALS service using their own fire rescue. He explained that Rural Metro Corporation will be contractually obligated to provide a level of service equal to what we have today. He stated that we have the opportunity with Rural Metro to negotiate a contract, to bring the cities on board, and to find some type of cost sharing or a payment sharing prospect, which would reduce the response time in the urban areas. The County would then have the ability to put another ambulance in the South Lake and rural areas to provide better level of service and would not approach the $3,500,000 figure being proposed by a non-profit organization for the joint provision of emergency medical services. He stated that what the Committee has brought forward may have merit; however, he does not believe that all of the questions can be answered between now and September 30, 2000 which is when the current contract expires. He stated that the most prudent thing for the Board would be to approve to continue to negotiate with Rural Metro Corporation a contract that will allow the County to improve the level of service, and to work with the cities to provide ALS service. If there was real interest in continuing to have a non-profit organization ultimately run the system, the Committee can then continue to work on a proposal and, at some point, a non-profit organization could take over the existing services provided or propose a new service.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he does not have the confidence that Rural Metro Corporation can maintain the level of service that currently exist at the cost that they have presented.

Mr. Elswick stated that it was possible for the County to create a common governing structure with Sumter and Lake Counties being the sole members; and they would, at their discretion, appoint the members. He stated that the Counties could form a non-profit organization in accordance with Florida's Not For Profit Corporation Act, Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, at a relatively low cost and then task the appointees to the group to set down and negotiate what pieces of the puzzle could be out sourced with the cities and Rural Metro Corporation. He stated that we probably cannot put the 501(c)(3) and the exception letter from the Internal Revenue Service in place by September 30, 2000. However, we can do business while we wait for the exemption letter.

Commr. Pool stated that the citizens of Lake and Sumter Counties should expect an enhanced and improved level of service. He concurred with Commr. Swartz that, if we are going to pay more, the County should receive more in the level of service. He stated that he does not have a problem with a motion to continue this process, however, the County needs a back up plan with Rural Metro Corporation.

Mr. Moore explained that the Committee consciously put the numbers together for the current level of service so that there would be an apples to apples comparison opportunity for the Board. He stated that it was relatively simple to add ambulances and personnel; however, he does not know if that higher level of service could be provided by October 1, 2000. He noted that the cities have advocated that they are looking for a higher level of service.

Commr. Hanson stated that the increased level of service might not be in place today but, if we are looking long term, that increased level of service will be there. She stated that the proposal has merit long term, if the citizens of Lake County are willing to bring the millage rate up to 1 mill, which is what the County was currently paying for the hospital districts.

Mr. Tad Stone, Senior Director, Emergency Services, appeared before the Board and stated that Rural Metro Corporation was unable to attend the meeting today due to another commitment but have indicated that they are willing to renegotiate the contract.

Commissioner Strickland stated that he does not understand how Rural Metro Corporation can provide a bid for the same level of service for $2,600,000 less money than a non-profit organization. He stated that the problem was that it was not known how much the federal government was going to cut the Medicare funding for ambulance service.

Mr. Gentry Richardson, Fire Chief, City of Leesburg, stated that, at this point, the citizens of the community unanimously support the non-profit organization, and the public accountability of public funds.

Mr. Jim Coleman, Town Manager, Town of Lady Lake, stated that there was a system in place currently that works, and the non-profit organization was bringing that system under the umbrella of the non-profit Board. He stated that those resources are in place now; however, if the existing contract runs out, and the County goes with Rural Metro Corporation, those assets will be liquidated and there will be no turning back. He stated that the Committee was not asking the Board to exclude Rural Metro as an option, only that the Board allow the Committee to continue forward.

Commr. Cadwell requested that the Board grant permission today to establish the 501(c)(3). He stated that he would like to go to a meeting that has been scheduled with Sumter County Board of County Commissioners with a positive vote from Lake County in regard to the direction that we have been looking with the understanding that we will proceed forward quickly.

Commr. Gerber stated that she was not comfortable taking Rural Metro Corporation off the table; however, she does support looking at the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization option.

Commr. Pool stated that he believes that we should move forward as quickly as possible to prepare a workable plan. He stated that his one concern was that we may not be able to finalize this plan by October 1, 2000. He questioned how quickly the Committee could return with a business plan outlining the nuts and bolts of the non-profit organization.

Mr. Elswick stated that the Committee needs the endorsement of the Lake and Sumter County Commissions to put the work group into action, and direction for the Committee to return in 30 days with a business plan to include any recommendations for working with other public sources, the structure of the organization, a list of leases that expire and leases that do not need to be renewed because the cities are willing to provide space for ambulance trucks.

Commr. Pool made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to endorse the concept of a not for profit organization for the purpose of providing and operating emergency medical services for Lake and Sumter Counties as presented by the Lake and Sumter Counties EMS Committee; and for the Committee to schedule a workshop in 30 days to discuss a business plan to establish a not for profit organization for the joint provision of emergency medical services.

Commr. Swartz expressed concern that we have less than 150 days until the existing contract expires. He stated that the prudent way to move into this option would be to resolve the outstanding contract issues that exist today; contract with Rural Metro Corporation who can be in place October 1, 2000; and over the service life of that contract the County could consider the not for profit organization. He stated that he would support an increase in the ambulance millage rate if he also felt confident that we would see an increase in the level of service to both the rural and urban residents. He stated that the Board should continue with the final negotiations with Rural Metro Corporation.

Commr. Swartz made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson for the purpose of discussion, to amend the motion to direct staff to continue to negotiate a final contract with Rural Metro Corporation at the same time that the County pursues the action provided in the motion, so that it can be brought back to the Board for consideration at the same time as the not for profit organization option.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which failed by a 1 - 4 vote.

Commr. Cadwell, Commr. Gerber, Commr. Hanson, and Commr Pool voted in opposition.

At this time, the Chairman called for a vote on the original motion, which passed by a 4 - 1vote.

Commr. Swartz voted in opposition.

CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED

Mr. Archie Lowry, Jr., Attorney, representing Mathew and Sara Gaard, appeared before the Board and noted that Mathew Gaard was the son of Marshall Gaard. He explained that the Board approved an agreement on April 18, 2000 allowing Mr. Gaard to convey property to the state if $10,000 were paid against code enforcement fines. He explained that Marshall Gaard co-signed on a loan two years ago for Mathew and Sara Gaard and was named on the property deed. Mathew and Sara Gaard have a buyer for the property and will close on the sale of the property in the near future with proceeds of approximately $12,000. He stated that the lien encumbers the property with Marshall Gaard's name on the deed. He requested permission for Mathew and Sara Gaard to sell the property subject to Marshall Gaard paying the County $2,500 to settle the lien.

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hansen and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved to place the request for Partial Release of Lien for Marshal Gaard on the agenda.

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved to authorize the Partial Release of Lien for Marshall Gaard, with a payment of $2,500 to Lake County; subject to review and approval by the County Manager and County Attorney.

COUNTY MANAGER'S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS/MEDICAL EXAMINER

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Commr. Welton Cadwell to the Medical Examiner Committee comprised of Lake, Marion, Citrus, Sumter and Hernando Counties.

PLANNING/MUNICIPALITIES/UTILITIES

Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Department of Growth Management Services, appeared before the Board to present a request for exemption to Section 6.12.01 of the Land Development Regulations which provides for connection requirements of central water systems within three hundred feet. She explained that Mr. Charles Pasch, property owner in the Howey-in-the-Hills area, was requesting an exemption to the requirement and noted that Mr. Pasch constructed a well on his property in 1998 at a cost of $2,550.

Mr. Gary Cooney, Attorney, representing the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills, appeared before the Board and discussed this issue. He explained that, at the request of Mr. Pasch, the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills has indicated to Mr. Pasch that they would install a water meter if he would pay for the installation costs of approximately $950.00; however, Mr. Pasch has not paid the costs and the meter has not been installed.

Commr. Swartz made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to deny the request for exemption of Section 6.12.01, Connection Requirements of Central Water Systems.

Commr. Cadwell expressed concern that Mr. Pasch was told in 1998 that he could install a well.

Commr. Pool stated that Mr. Pasch now has a water source and whether or not he is required to hook up to the central water system should be between Howey-in-the-Hills and the owner.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which failed by a 2 - 3 vote.

Commr. Cadwell, Commr. Hanson and Commr. Pool voted in opposition.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried by a 4 - 1 vote, the Board approved a request from Mr. Charles Pasch for exemption of Section 6.12.01 Connection Requirement of Central Water Systems.

Commr. Swartz voted in opposition.

MUNICIPALITIES/RESOLUTIONS/ROADS-COUNTY & STATE

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Department of Public Works, presented the request for approval of a resolution annexing a portion of Spring Lake Road (31-6104) from U.S. Highway 441 to Poinsettia Avenue, to the jurisdiction of the City of Fruitland Park. He presented a map illustrating the location of said property and discussed same. He stated that staff was recommending denial of the annexation until such time that the contiguous property was primarily within the city limits of Fruitland Park.

Mr. Gary Cooney, City Attorney, City of Fruitland Park, appeared before the Board and explained that this request was not to create an enclave but to provide continuity of police service in the area. He illustrated on the map the problem of a portion of the east bound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 being in the City of Fruitland Park and a portion of the west bound lanes being in the unincorporated area of Lake County which presents a problem with the City of Fruitland Park Police Department having jurisdiction on one side of U.S. Highway 441 and not on the other side of the highway.

Commr. Gerber made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to approve the request for adoption of a resolution for annexation of a portion of Spring Lake Road (#1-6104) from U.S. Highway 441 to Poinsettia Avenue, to the jurisdiction of the City of Fruitland Park.

It was noted that the wrong map had been presented on the monitor; therefore, Commr. Gerber withdrew her motion and Commr. Hanson withdrew her second to the motion.

In response to a question presented by Commr. Swartz, Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained that cities can jump over rights-of-way and, in the area along US Highway 27/441, the city could annex on the other side of the road right-of-way even though the road right-of-way was not in the city. He stated that the map illustrates that it was contiguous not only to the west but also to the southeast.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the request for approval of Resolution No. 2000-65 annexing a portion of Spring Lake Road #1-6104, which appears on the map ending at the city limits boundary, to the jurisdiction of the City of Fruitland Park.

MUNICIPALITIES/RESOLUTIONS/ROADS-COUNTY & STATE

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Department of Public Works, presented the request for approval of a resolution annexing a portion of S. Gray's Airport Road (#1-6409), the West 2,900 feet lying East of U.S. Highway 27/441, to the City of Fruitland Park.

Commr. Gerber made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to approve Resolution No. 2000-67 annexing a portion of S. Gray's Road #1-6409, the West 2,900 feet lying east of U.S. Highway 27/441 to the city limits boundary, to the City of Fruitland Park, as amended to extend to the easterly city limits line which is easterly of parcel number 35350.

Mr. Stivender stated that staff was recommending denial of this request until such time that the contiguous property is primarily within the city limits of the City of Fruitland Park. He stated that the concern was that the County would be responsible for maintenance of a roadway within the city limits.

Commr. Swartz stated that, if maintaining the roadway within the city limits was a problem, the County could turn over maintenance of the roadway at the time that the County allows annexation. Mr. Stivender interjected that Florida Statute requirements will not allow the County to turn over a portion of a segment of roadway to maintenance. Commr. Swartz suggested that these annexations be approved subject to the provision that, when the majority of the segments are adjacent to city right-of-way, the County would have the ability to turn over the maintenance of the roadway to the city and the city would accept maintenance of said roadway.

Commr. Gerber amended her motion to add language that states that approval of the resolution was subject to the provision that the City of Fruitland Park would accept maintenance of the roadway upon request from the County when over 50% of the road segment is contiguous to the city limits of the City of Fruitland Park. Commr. Hanson amended her second to the motion.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote.

MUNICIPALITIES/RESOLUTIONS/ROADS-COUNTY & STATE (CONTINUED)

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved to readdress Tab 19, a request for annexation of a portion of Spring Lake Road from U.S. Highway 441 to the city limits boundary to the jurisdiction of the City of Fruitland Park.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved to add language to Resolution No. 2000-65 which states that approval was subject to the provision that the City of Fruitland Park would accept maintenance of the roadway upon request from the County when over 50% of the road segment is contiguous to the city limits of the City of Fruitland Park.

MUNICIPALITIES/RESOLUTIONS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Department of Public Works, presented the request for approval of a resolution annexing a portion of E. Revels Road #3-2837, from Lakeshore Boulevard to State Road 19, to the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills. He stated that staff would not be opposed to this request if similar language were added regarding road maintenance. Mr. Gary Cooney, Town Attorney, Town of Howey-in-the-Hills, appeared before the Board and presented a map illustrating the location of the property in question. He explained that the southern half of Revels Road was in the County and the northern half of Revels Road was in the city limits. He stated that he would like to amend this request to include additional sections of Revels Road that are not in the city limits boundary.

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2000-66 annexing a portion of E. Revels Road #3-2837, from Lakeshore Boulevard to State Road 19, to the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills, as amended to include additional sections of Revels Road that are not in the city limits boundary; subject to the provision that the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills would accept maintenance of the roadway upon request from the County when over 50% of the road segment is contiguous to the city limits of the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills.

TOURISM/TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Mr. Dave Warren, Economic Development Director, appeared before the Board to present this request.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the request for approval to authorize Cramer-Krasselt to seek commercial advertisement for Lake County in the Lake County Vacation Guide as recommended by the Tourist Development Council at their meeting on March 30, 2000.

OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Dorothy J. Vedder, to the Cultural Affairs Council to fill the unexpired term of office created by the resignation of Bill Binneveld to serve through September 30, 2001.

APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointments of the following individuals to vacant positions on the Citizen's Commission for Children:

District Representatives to serve terms expiring on May 14, 2002

Katherine A. J. Cook - District 1

Julia C. Flohr - District 2

Byron Thompson - District 3

Trella Mott - District 4

At-Large Representative to serve term expiring May 14, 2002



Beth Ann Scovill Moore



Superintendent of Schools or a Named Administrative Designee to serve term ending May 14, 2002



Mary Fletcher, Designee



Program Administrator of the Department of Children and Families to serve term expiring May 14, 2002



Patrick G. Howard, District Administrator



APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointments of Nathan Olds, to complete a term ending March 2, 2001; and Michael Rogers, to complete a term ending March 2, 2003, to the vacant positions on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Committee.

APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Richard Xavier Gonzales to the vacant position representing the business community on the Environmental Protection Advisory Board to complete a term ending April 1, 2001.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

MEETINGS/VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointments of Commr. Cadwell and Commr. Pool to serve on the Value Adjustment Board; and approved the following dates for the Value Adjustment Board meetings:

August 24 - 25, 2000 - Agricultural and Homestead Exemptions

September 27 - 29, 2000 - Assessments (Tentative)



CONTRACTS, LEASES & AGREEMENTS/SUITS AFFECTING THE COUNTY

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, presented the request for approval of a settlement between Lake County vs. Ethel Kelley, CEP #82-98, Circuit Court Case #99-2208CA. He stated that Mr. James Givens, the current property owner, has offered the County an additional $500.00 to settle the pending foreclosure case and release the code enforcement liens.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the Settlement between Lake County vs. Ethel Kelley, CEB #82-98, Circuit Court Case #99-2208CA and Release of Lien.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Mr. Frank Kimmel to the Board of Building Examiners as a representative of the category of consumer.

REPORTS (CONTINUED)

COUNTY MANAGER

EMPLOYEES

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that Mr. Alvin Jackson, Deputy County Manager, and Ms. Lourdes Ramos, Personnel Manager, were present to report on the results of Employee Survey 2000. It was noted that a copy of the Lake County Board of County Commissioners Employee Survey Results, dated March 2000, had been distributed to the Board.

Mr. Alvin Jackson, Deputy County Manager, presented a brief overview of the Employee Survey and explained that an employee survey provides the employer a reports card from which to measure performances in the areas of pay, benefits, safety, work environment, supervision, management, teamwork, customer services and employee morale. He stated that the County values input and feed back from the employees, and the County will make a sincere effort to identify areas for improvement and to address key areas. He stated that, in order to be more in tune with the pulse of the organization and address key issues in a timely manner, employee surveys must be conducted on a regular basis. Survey 2000 will serve as a baseline for the future surveys that will be conducted annually and comparative data will be analyzed from year to year. At this time, he discussed the September 1995 Employee Survey results. He explained that a different instrument was used for the March 2000 survey; however, the one significant correlation between the 1995 and the 2000 survey was the increased level of leadership ability in our supervisors which is a direct result of efforts to address the 1995 survey.

Ms. Lourdes Ramos, Personnel Director, appeared before the Board and stated that the results of the 2000 Survey indicate that employees feel that Lake County was a good place to work, and it was evident that a lot of effort has been placed on the County's quality initiative, supervisory skills, development and training. She discussed the survey responses and stated that some items were closely balanced between those who disagreed and those who agreed. This indicates that approximately one half of the work force perceives things one way, while the other half perceives the same thing differently. She stated that only 50% of the respondents indicated that they were satisfied with communication within the organization. In summary, she stated that employees have a very positive perception about working for Lake County. There have been significant strides made in leadership abilities of our supervisors, the quality improvement initiative has been a worthwhile effort, the training needs of our employees are being met and our work environment is safe. While we continue to pursue areas that we can improve, we will clarify the issue of communication through employee focus groups, will move forward aggressively in establishing more employee wellness programs, and the departments will utilize their departmental graphs that will help to improve specific areas as needed.

Commr. Swartz stated that, while there may be some conflicting signals in some of the responses, it was important to note that anything that was neutral indicates a lack of success and that was problematic.



REPORTS (CONTINUED)

COMMISSIONER POOL - DISTRICT NO. 2

Commr. Pool expressed appreciation to Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Department of Growth Management, and staff for the Montverde Small Area Study on April 27, 2000. He stated that approximately 150 citizens were present.

Commr. Pool informed the Board that he attended the Central Florida Transportation Round Table, on April 28, 2000, that addressed areas of concern with regard to transportation.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER SWARTZ - DISTRICT NO. 3

APPOINTMENTS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Mr. James Gardner as the County Commission District 3 representative on the Board of Adjustments.

RESOLUTIONS

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5 - 0 vote, the Board approved Proclamation No. 2000-68 declaring the month of May 2000 as Law Enforcement Month in Lake County.

COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT NO. 4

ASSESSMENTS

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, presented a report on alternative funding for special assessments and explained that approximately $300,000 was owned to the County from previous special assessments that are in the nature of accounts payable. He explained that, typically, the County pays one-third of the special assessment and the property owner was assessed two-thirds which has been funded from the Transportation Trust Fund or from the transportation budget. He explained that interest rates on the special assessment debt was higher than what the County was currently earning when we invest the funds; therefore, a procedure has been established where the general fund actually purchases those special assessment dollars and the County can then use the normal investment procedure to finance the improvements. The transportation fund would no longer have to finance the assessments. He stated that discussion has also occurred regarding financing the $300,000 in outstanding receivables. He stated that staff's recommendation was to explore with the Tax Collector and Property Appraiser using the ad valorem tax method for future assessments beginning in Year 2001, and to move forward with the ad valorem method subject to the Tax Collector and the Property Appraiser agreeing to the procedure. He stated that a budget amendment would be brought back to the Board at a later date.

No action was required at this time.

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting adjourned at 12:15 p.m.



WELTON G. CADWELL, CHAIRMAN











ATTEST:



JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK



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