official minutes of marion county board of county ... · staff will bring the board a budget that...

12
Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS March 27, 2018 CALL TO ORDER: The Marion County Board of County Commissioners met in a workshop session in Commission Chambers at 9:06 a.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at the Marion County Governmental Complex located in Ocala, Florida. INTRODUCTION OF WORKSHOP BY CHAIRMAN KATHY BRYANT Chairman Bryant advised that the workshop was scheduled this morning to discuss the Five-Year Budget Proposals by Departments. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country. ROLL CALL Upon roll call the following members were present: Chairman Kathy Bryant, District 2; Vice -Chair Michelle Stone, District 5; Commissioner David Moore, District 1; Commissioner Jeff Gold, District 3; and Commissioner Carl Zalak, District 4. Also present was County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes. STAFF PRESENTATION - TRACY STRAUB, PE, COUNTY ENGINEER: Administration Mounir Bouyounes, PE, County Administrator County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes presented a 1 page Agenda document, a 10 page handout containing 20 slides entitled, "Marion County Board of County Commissioners Workshop to Discuss the Five -Year Budget Proposals by Departments", to follow along with the PowerPoint presentation, and a 58 page spiral bound document entitled, "Marion County Board of County Commissioners Strategic Planning Workshop Financial Projection", which was previously presented to the Board on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 during the Strategic Planning Workshop. Mr. Bouyounes stated staff is not asking for approval of the five-year budgeting plan, but is requesting that the Board advise of any projects they do not want to discuss further. The chart on slide 2 addresses the new positions in the General Fund, which are under the County Administrator. There is a need for new positions in Administration, Human Resources (HR) and Procurement as noted over the next 5 years. The Marketing Coordinator and the Culture Officer are planned for fiscal year (FY) 2018-19; however, the Culture Officer is not included in the proposed budget and may be pushed back for further evaluation. The Marketing Coordinator position is still being reviewed, but is included in the proposed budget. He advised that HR is in need of a Compensation Specialist, noting it will be beneficial to the department to be able to improve the county's marketing and advertising, as well as focus on attracting people for open positions. If this position is added it will free up the HR and Training Manager to focus on other items. This position will focus on continuing with the market analysis to ensure the county continues to be competitive in the market. Procurement is requesting a total of 3 positions, which are not included in the proposed budget, but in light of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software the county may not need those positions in the future. Book X, Page 841

Upload: others

Post on 26-Jun-2020

0 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

March 27, 2018

CALL TO ORDER: The Marion County Board of County Commissioners met in a workshop session in Commission Chambers at 9:06 a.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at the Marion County Governmental Complex located in Ocala, Florida.

INTRODUCTION OF WORKSHOP BY CHAIRMAN KATHY BRYANT Chairman Bryant advised that the workshop was scheduled this morning to discuss the Five-Year Budget Proposals by Departments.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country.

ROLL CALL Upon roll call the following members were present: Chairman Kathy Bryant, District 2; Vice-Chair Michelle Stone, District 5; Commissioner David Moore, District 1; Commissioner Jeff Gold, District 3; and Commissioner Carl Zalak, District 4. Also present was County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes.

STAFF PRESENTATION - TRACY STRAUB, PE, COUNTY ENGINEER: Administration — Mounir Bouyounes, PE, County Administrator

County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes presented a 1 page Agenda document, a 10 page handout containing 20 slides entitled, "Marion County Board of County Commissioners Workshop to Discuss the Five-Year Budget Proposals by Departments", to follow along with the PowerPoint presentation, and a 58 page spiral bound document entitled, "Marion County Board of County Commissioners Strategic Planning Workshop Financial Projection", which was previously presented to the Board on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 during the Strategic Planning Workshop. Mr. Bouyounes stated staff is not asking for approval of the five-year budgeting plan, but is requesting that the Board advise of any projects they do not want to discuss further. The chart on slide 2 addresses the new positions in the General Fund, which are under the County Administrator. There is a need for new positions in Administration, Human Resources (HR) and Procurement as noted over the next 5 years. The Marketing Coordinator and the Culture Officer are planned for fiscal year (FY) 2018-19; however, the Culture Officer is not included in the proposed budget and may be pushed back for further evaluation. The Marketing Coordinator position is still being reviewed, but is included in the proposed budget. He advised that HR is in need of a Compensation Specialist, noting it will be beneficial to the department to be able to improve the county's marketing and advertising, as well as focus on attracting people for open positions. If this position is added it will free up the HR and Training Manager to focus on other items. This position will focus on continuing with the market analysis to ensure the county continues to be competitive in the market. Procurement is requesting a total of 3 positions, which are not included in the proposed budget, but in light of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software the county may not need those positions in the future.

Book X, Page 841

Page 2: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Commissioner Moore questioned if staff has considered revenues to offset the needs and how the county is diversifying its revenue. Mr. Bouyounes advised that staff reviews projected revenues from fees and taxes on an annual basis, noting all that information was presented at the Strategic Planning Workshop. Commissioner Moore commented on how other areas diversify revenue. Mr. Bouyounes stated staff has researched the possibility of implementing an Municipal Service Taxing Units (MSTU) for the Libraries, but there are limitations to using an MSTU due to certain areas in the county being close to the maximum millage rate. If a library MSTU is put in place it will be for the entire county including municipalities, which will cause an issue in the City of Ocala and certain parts of Marion County because those areas are very close to the maximum millage rate. Commissioner Zalak questioned if the Library MSTU is a fee or a millage rate in other counties. Library Director Julie Sieg advised that Alachua and Orange Counties are independent taxing districts, which means the millage was approved by the voters. Slide 3 addresses salary adjustments in the General Fund. Mr. Bouyounes stated it will cost $3,200,000 to adjust the pay in all departments to remain competitive in the market and recommends going into the FY 2018-19 budget focusing on Animal Services, Procurement, Code Enforcement, Staff Assistants and HR. Staffs intention is to bring a budget to the Board that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the ERP has been ongoing project (slide 4). The HR Module kicked off last week and will take approximately 10 to 12 months before it is finalized and in service. Slide 5 addresses the Growth Services building renovation. Staff is currently working with the architect to develop the preliminary conceptual plan, which should be brought before the Board soon to be finalized. The county will then go into final design and construction. There are funds for this project, but it may not be something that can be maintained in the proposed budget. The estimated cost for this renovation is $1,750,000. In response to Chairman Bryant, Mr. Bouyounes advised that the building is being remodeled to make the floor plan more efficient and customer friendly. Commissioner Zalak commented on the work that has gone into reshaping the space to make it more adaptable to the departments. Commissioner Moore questioned where the funds will come from to pay for the renovations. Mr. Bouyounes advised that there are 3 funding sources the county can use: building fees, the General Fund, and since Community Services will be moving into that building they may be able to use grant funding. General discussion ensued. Mr. Bouyounes stated it is his duty and responsibility to bring ideas to the Board, but it does not mean each project will be funded. Commissioner Zalak requested staff bring back a funding solution from the 3 opportunities; how to do it; and over how many years the project will take to accomplish. The Board may not be able to perform all of it at once, but a 2 or 3 year plan could be possible.

There was a recess at 9:22 a.m. The meeting reconvened at 9:25 a.m.

Chairman Bryant advised that all questions will be saved until the end of the presentation.

Page 842, Book X

Page 3: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Slide 6 addresses the McPherson Complex renovations. Mr. Bouyounes advised that a few small projects are needed to maintain the complex long term and preserve the history of this location. Slide 7 addresses the Employee Health Clinic. The health clinic was discusses during the Strategic Planning Workshop and will require further vetting before the county is ready to move forward. Slide 8 addresses Emergency Medical Services. The plan over the next 5 years is to add 8 units into the system. The proposed budget includes 3 units for FY 2018-19, which may not be possible while maintaining the current millage rate. Mr. Bouyounes reiterated that staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff may be able to add 1 unit within the current funding capacity and will provide options for 2 additional units. Slide 9 addresses fee adjustments. A new set of ambulance rates will be included on the next Board of County Commissioner (BCC) Agenda for Board approval. The county has not updated those rates in several years and staff needs to ensure the rates are competitive in the market. Permitting and Office of the County Engineer (OCE) rates have not been reviewed since 2008. Staff will be reviewing the rates and will bring a recommendation to the Board in 60 to 90 days. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Bouyounes advised that the Employee Health Clinic will be county owned and operated, but private providers will be used to staff and manage the clinic. Chairman Bryant commented on the several companies who have approached Commissioners in regard to a clinic and questioned if staff has researched options to see if it would be beneficial for a private entity to come in and carry on the operation for the county. Mr. Bouyounes advised that preliminary discussions took place and staff visited a clinic in Pasco county, but nothing went further. He stated with direction from the Board staff can get more information and create a package with recommendations for Board consideration. General discussion ensued. Commissioner Gold asked whether the clinic would be open to families. Commissioner Zalak advised that if the employee's family is covered under the health insurance then they could use the facility. Some models were a little more expensive, but would be a benefit to the employees and their families. In response to Commissioner Gold, Mr. Bouyounes stated the county has a contract with a private provider, who comes in a couple days a week for Workers' Compensation cases, but does see other cases. Commissioner Zalak advised that he would like to know exactly what the county is trying to achieve through the clinic and how that would be accomplished. Mr. Bouyounes stated staff will bring back more information. Commissioner Gold commented on the possibility of a city/county partnership. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the City of Ocala already has its own clinic, but staff can speak with them to discuss options. Commissioner Zalak stated the county could consider working with the Cities of Dunnellon and Belleview, as well as the Town of Reddick on a contract, which will give the county a better buying power position. General discussion resumed. In response to Commissioner Stone, Mr. Bouyounes advised that the 5 year plan proposes 3 ambulance units, but there may be a funding issue in the budget. Chairman

Book X, Page 843

Page 4: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Bryant questioned the amount of funding required for an ambulance. Mr. Bouyounes stated the cost is roughly $700,000, noting the capital costs are $250,000 and recurring is $400,000. Chairman Bryant expressed support for prioritizing public safety over building renovations. Commissioner Zalak stated the revenue from the Summerfield Emergency Department should replace 2 ambulances and staff should bring back a recommendation for 3 ambulances. Commissioner Stone expressed concerns with the county's ability to staff 3 additional units. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the priority is to fix the pay structure, then add capacity. Commissioner Zalak stated even if the county had $1,700,000 it would only be a 1 year solution. Mr. Bouyounes advised that capital is a one time expenditure and in order to implement 3 units the Board will have to eliminate programs. Chairman Bryant advised that the county is not creating something for just this year. Once the capital project is done this year it will free up funding for the following year. Staff can bring back a budget which includes the cost of the units and projected revenue. She reiterated her priority is to figure out what the county can do to alleviate the issues for Fire Rescue, which will not be fixed in one budget year. Commissioner Zalak requested staff bring back to the Board an analysis of what issues other areas are encountering. The Board needs to figure out what is a real solution over the long haul and fix the process. He commented on the amount of people willing to become a firefighter and all the other opportunities available. Commissioner Moore advised that the Board needs to take care of those who take care of us, which is why focus should be on the pay structure and adding 3 new ambulances. Mr. Bouyounes asked if the Board wanted the proposed budget coming forward to include the 3 units. Commissioner Moore advised that the Board has not met with the Union to discuss pay structure. Commissioner Zalak stated if the Board opens up an Article there must be a funding source, noting at this time the county does not have a funding source. Mr. Bouyounes stated a lot of good direction came from the Fire Rescue Workshop and urged the Board to allow staff to bring back more information prior to deciding whether or not to open an Article. Chairman Bryant directed staff to work closely with Chief Jamie Banta, Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR), to determine realistically what capacity the department can be staffed. It was the general consensus of the Board to agree. In response to Commissioner Gold, Mr. Bouyounes advised that staff will be reviewing Animal Services fees for FY 18-19. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the previous year staff was able to review all the enterprise departments and adjust pay structure and matrices, which gave employees an opportunity for future growth. The Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau (VCB) is an enterprise fund department and staff is currently reviewing the job descriptions; a recommendation will be brought to the Board during the budget process. There will be adjustments to the pay structure and the addition of one position. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Bouyounes advised that the changes to the VCB should not interfere with the pennies requested for capital improvements.

Public Services — Jeannie Rickman, CPM, Assistant County Administrator Assistant County Administrator (ACA) Jeannie Rickman gave a brief overview of the proposed new positions in the Public Services Departments (slide 10).

Page 844, Book X

Page 5: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Commissioner Moore questioned what Library Services is doing to upgrade technology in order to stay current and have more titles available. Ms. Rickman advised that staff is increasing the digital content, but many folks prefer printed material. The Library has included digital content in the proposed budget, as well as approximately $200,000 per year to increase library materials technology. Slide 11 addresses the Public Safety Communications (PSC) Bunkhouse, project in the General Fund, There are 2 proposed projects: 1) Enhanced Security; and 2) constructing a bunkhouse to coincide with the Emergency Operation Center (EOC). During Hurricane Irma there was not enough room to accommodate the more than 60 folks working the communications center on a 24 hour basis. Mr. Bouyounes advised that since the project is for public safety it can be considered under the Sales Tax. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Bouyounes advised that staff can review the project for possible grant funding through Emergency Services. Slide 12 addresses the Animal Services and Solid Waste Renovation. Ms. Rickman stated, Animal Services currently has 47 staff members; kennel spaces for 196 dogs; and cages for 120 cats, which is available spaces for roughly 320 animals. Animals Services needs to keep some of the kennel and cages available for seizure operations or animals picked up off the street wandering loose. The department is looking to collaborate with Solid Waste and in the near future Solid Waste will propose a conceptual plan to construct an administrative office for their employees. Staff has discussed allowing some of the employees from Animal Services to house some of their administrative functions in the Solid Waste Building. The drainage retention areas (DRAs) on the property will be reconfigured in order to allow for additional citizen parking. With the construction of the Solid Waste administration building staff will be able to enhance the existing Animal Services building to add a 60 kennel wing and reconfigure the office space. These costs are proposed in FY 2021-22. Slide 13 addresses the proposed expansion of the Freedom Library. Freedom Library opened in 2001 on 3 acres of donated land and is 8,200 square feet. The building was designed to be expanded up to 32,000 square feet and based on data gathered there are over 50,000 citizens within a 5 mile radius and 148,000 within a 10 mile radius, as well as more than 25,000 card holders who frequent the facility. The proposed cost include 9 positions in the amount of $265,000, operating costs (i.e. printed and digital material), and capital, which does include the design, construction, furniture and fixtures. Chairman Bryant questioned if staff has considered the projected numbers for growth based on development the Board has already approved in the area. Ms. Rickman stated projected growth was not considered at this time. Staff reviewed the current numbers and does see the growth, which is one of the reasons why Freedom Library would be best to advance to the expansion. Chairman Bryant advised that the Board has approved a lot of development and directed staff to provide some projections for that area. Commissioner Moore commented on other areas in the county in need of a library. Ms. Rickman advised that staff has considered library construction in Marion Oaks, but it is not included in the 5 year plan. The cost for architect and engineering is roughly $300,000 and based on the model currently in place, construction will cost $2,500,000. She stated numbers for Silver Springs Shores are not available, but staff can bring that information back to the Board. General discussion ensued.

Book X, Page 845

Page 6: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Commissioner Zalak stated the Board needs to consider a long-term plan and how they want to grow these libraries, noting what worked today and 20 years ago may not work 20 years from now. He opined that expanding the libraries may not be the best use of General Fund dollars, noting it is very difficult to say Public Safety is the county's first priority and then build and staff a library. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Chairman Bryant advised that years ago there was an opportunity to partner with the School Board to build media centers, which is not possible today. Commissioner Zalak stated the county could provide some capital to build out the community centers in Silver Springs Shores and Marion Oaks and then allow an MSTU to operate a library similar to Rainbow Lakes Estates (RLE). Chairman Bryant advised that the Board may want to consider the possibility of a more northwestern location based on general growth in Marion County. Commissioner Stone commented on the need for Fire and Rescue on the northwest side of the county and the possibility of combining both buildings. General discussion resumed. Commissioner Zalak commented on the importance of ensuring that libraries do not become internet cafes and stated the county should know where they are going and exactly what should be included in the future. Chairman Bryant stated the county could offer naming rights or sponsorship opportunities for these types of projects. Commissioner Gold commented on the increased cost for materials if smaller satellite offices are built. The county could require some of the larger subdivisions to provide a private library for their residents, similar to how some are required to provide Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Ms. Sieg advised that the Freedom Library was too small when the doors were opened and there is a great need to expand the facility. There is an economy in a larger facility, which is why staff is considering an existing facility for expansion. Commissioner Gold out at 10:16 a.m. In response to Chairman Bryant, Ms. Sieg stated there are 10 employees currently staffed at Freedom Library, 6 at the Forest location, 3 part-time at Ft. McCoy, 1 full time and 2 part-time employees at Marion Oaks, and 55 full time and 11 part-time employees at Library Headquarters. The Library Headquarters includes regional facilities, administration and technical services. Commissioner Zalak questioned if the need for additional employees is due to a workload issue. Ms. Sieg advised that the reason is both a workload issue and a retirement issue. Over the next 5 years a number of seasoned employees are retiring and the additional positions are an attempt to address the drain on corporate knowledge and experience. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Ms. Sieg stated there are approximately 10 employees at the Belleview and Dunnellon libraries, as well as 3 part-time employees at the Reddick Library. The Forest Library has 6 employees to cover all the hours and programming. The issue at Belleview, Dunnellon and Freedom Library is the workload in terms of the sheer number of people who frequent the locations and need services. Commissioner Moore questioned when the road connecting Silver Spring Shores to Belleview will be completed. Mr. Bouyounes stated the project is 3 years out in the 5 year plan Commissioner Zalak commented on the different traffic patterns of a person living in Silver Springs Shores compared to those on SR 200.

Page 846, Book X

Page 7: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Commissioner Gold returned at 10:20 a.m. Commissioner Stone advised that SunTran is considering changing its route system in Silver Springs Shores because it is not being utilized. People have transportation to come into town and for those that do not the service will be more of a concierge. A resident can call and request a ride and within an hour someone will be available to provide transportation. In response to Commissioner Stone, Ms. Sieg advised that Freedom Library was designed to expand and staff projected there would be growth in that area. Commissioner Zalak stated most county buildings are designed to expand. Commissioner Gold expressed support for the Communication Center project and requested staff include a washer and dryer in the plans. Commissioner Zalak questioned why an Assistant Manager position is needed in Community Services. Mr. Bouyounes advised that there is currently no oversight or in-house expert to answer questions relating to Health and Human Services. If the county is able to use a combination of grant funding, General Fund and Health Department funds it will be beneficial to all involved to have an in-house expert. Commissioner Stone commented on the value the position will bring to the Continuum of Care (COC) Homeless Assistance Program. In response to Commissioner Stone, Mr. Bouyounes advised that a staff liaison would help provide direction to the COC. The proposed position will be a liaison and provide oversight for all programs the county is involved in, which includes Medicaid, unclaimed bodies, the health department, hospital care services for indigent, Marion County Health Unit, Juvenile Detention, the Centers, Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, Marion Senior Services, Heart of Florida and Guardian Ad Litem. Chairman Bryant questioned what is being provided to these agencies. Mr. Bouyounes stated the Board provides funding, noting there is not much funding for the Department of Health (DOH) but there is a lot of interaction between DOH and Community Services. The county receives bills from Medicaid on a regular basis. He advised that the Board approves a budget on an annual basis and there should be someone on staff to know how the money is being dispersed and what the programs are providing. Ms. Rickman advised that the Community Services Assistant Director will be a dedicated position that will provide oversight to those programs. Chairman Bryant commented on the different liaisons for each of the programs presented and advised that further discussion is required for the position. Mr. Bouyounes stated if the Board is happy with the level of service being provided he will continue the way it is now, noting the benefit of the position compared to the cost to the General Fund. In response to Commissioner Moore, Mr. Bouyounes advised that Marion County Sheriffs Office (MCSO) oversees the Juvenile Detention program, but there may be changes to that in the future. In most counties if the program is not under the Sheriffs oversight it goes back to the county and the county handles the interaction. Chairman Bryant stated further discussion is required for the proposed Community Services Assistant Director when staff has laid out exactly what the position will entail. Commissioner Zalak advised that whoever will be presenting the information during budget workshops will need to be prepared to answer questions. Also during the budget workshops the Board will be provided a better understanding of the VCB funding and additional positions. Ms. Rickman stated the Tourist Development Council (TDC) has made the request and once a review of the job descriptions and the comparison of

Book X, Page 847

Page 8: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

salaries is completed staff will bring a recommendation to the Board during the budget process. In response to Commissioner Zalak, ACA Angel Roussel advised that the Solid Waste Administration building will be considered as an overall Master Plan for Solid Waste. The project is included in the 5th year and will have to be justifiable to move forward. There are currently a lot of trailers that are over 20 years old and a lot of money is being spent to keep them working; the department is also in need of additional space, as is Animal Services. This is a combined effort to be able to provide square footage to both Solid Waste and Animal Services. Commissioner Zalak questioned if staff has priced out the cost to replace the existing trailers in comparison to building. Mr. Roussel stated staff has not, noting the $1,500,000 to construct the building is a concept and staff is unsure of the exact need. Commissioner Zalak stated the cost for the project will be more in 5 years. Mr. Roussel advised that it has not been determined what the cost of the project would be today versus what the cost will be in 5 years, which would be determined through a Master Plan for Solid Waste. Commissioner Zalak advised that it will be difficult to know what Solid Waste will look like in 5 years, because of the Baseline Landfill closing. Staff can plan, but the county should not spend money until they are sure what direction Solid Waste is moving. Mr. Roussel concurred. A Master Plan will be done for the whole operation, not only for the landfill itself, to determine if the way Solid Waste is currently operating is the best way to operate in the long term. In response to Commissioner Moore, Mr. Roussel advised that staff has not determined the cost for the Solid Waste Master Plan, but will have that information for the Board during the budget workshop. Mr. Bouyounes stated the first step is to develop a Master Plan, but this will not start until staff can bring the project back to the Board and the needs and cost have been identified. The Board will need to make a Policy decision as to whether or not they want to continue operating how it is today or consider what the county wants the location to look like long term. Commissioner Zalak stated until the landfill is closed, the next process is in place and until it is determined how the location will be managed long term, a building should not be constructed. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the Solid Waste Administrative Building is a 5 year project to be developed, not to be constructed. Chairman Bryant commented on the positive experience she had at the Canal Recycling Center and commended staff member Charles Thompson. Commissioner Stone out at 10:38 a.m.

Public Works — Angel Roussel, PE, Assistant County Administrator Mr. Roussel gave a brief overview of the proposed positions in the Public Works Departments (slide 14) and commented on the need to expand the Fleet Management facility. Commissioner Stone returned at 10:40 a.m. Commissioner Moore out at 10:40 a.m. Chairman Bryant passed the gavel to Commissioner Stone, who assumed the Chair. Commissioner Bryant out at 10:40 a.m. Commissioner Moore returned at 10:42 a.m. Commissioner Bryant returned at 10:42 a.m.

Page 848, Book X

Page 9: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

Chair Stone returned the gavel to Commissioner Bryant, who resumed the Chair. Slide 15 addresses new construction at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion (SELP). The proposed cost for new construction is $876,000. Marion County was awarded $300,000 from the state for the project, which will be prioritized or funneled into the restrooms and generators. Slide 16 addresses proposed positions in the Enterprise Funds for the Public Works Departments. Staff is considering ways to increase services provided by Solid Waste, which includes accepting furniture and tires during normal operating hours at 6 of the higher traffic sights throughout the county, but will require additional staff. Chairman Bryant asked if it is possible for the county to contract with an outside company to purchase used appliances that come into the recycling centers. Solid Waste Operations Manager Larry Starkey stated currently appliances are collected from all 18 sites and an extractor is brought in to remove the Freon, then they are taken to the county's scrap metal hauler. Staff does recommend citizens take the appliances to locations, such as Interfaith. The county does not have a committed amount of tonnage included in their contract with the metal recycler. Commissioner Zalak commented on the struggles small mom and pop businesses have when trying to work with the county. Mr. Starkey advised that staff has reached out to a used appliance company in the City of Belleview to provide services, but the company declined due to the amount of capital outlay to purchase the used appliances. Commissioner Zalak questioned if the Hazardous Waste Spotter was different from the regular spotter. Mr. Starkey advised that they are not and the reason for the term Hazardous Waste is because they are required to have a Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) certification, noting there will only be 1 person on the pad. Mr. Roussel stated the proposed Scale Operation Specialist is a conceptual position and will only be needed if the department adds another lane on the scale house. A Maintenance Technician is proposed for preventive maintenance on all the equipment located at the different sites. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Starkey advised that with the enhancements made in the recycling centers over the past several years the department is in need of someone to perform normal maintenance and trouble shooting. Currently supervisors are performing those duties, which is taking away from their normal responsibilities. By hiring someone to keep maintenance up to date and ensure there are no issues will save the county from calling the vendor for service, which cost $100 per hour. Commissioner Stone questioned if the positions will be Marion County employees or Source2. Mr. Starkey advised that the Hazardous Waste Spotter, Scale Operations Specialist, Maintenance Technician and Drivers will all be Marion County Employees. All recycling center attendants are currently Source2 employees. In response to Commissioner Stone, Mr. Roussel stated it is less expensive to hire a Source2 employee than if it were a county position. Commissioner Zalak advised that Source2 does provide medical, but is not required to provide Florida Retirement System (FRS) benefits. Slide 17 addresses Airport Construction and Equipment. Slide 18 addresses 911 Equipment Replacement. Ms. Rickman advised that industry standards recommend replacing 9-1-1 equipment every 7 years. The 9-1-1 system replacement includes work stations and mapping, which were replaced in 2016. By the time the Board begins to consider replacement in FY 2022-13 the equipment will be at

Book X, Page 849

Page 10: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

the 7 year mark. Also the 9-1-1 logging recorder follows the same industry standard with replacement in approximately 7 years. In response to Chairman Bryant, Ms. Rickman stated grant funding may be available since the project is capital for Public Safety. Commissioner Moore asked if the system will be integrated with surrounding counties. Public Safety Communications Director Silas Daniel advised that the overall goal the state has for the 9-1-1 system statewide is for counties to be able to integrate with each other and seamlessly transfer calls between jurisdictions. A future project included in the Empowering Marion Plan is to build a regional network with surrounding counties and as staff moves closer to that point they will begin negotiations and discussions on how to make that happen. In response to Commissioner Moore, Mr. Daniel advised that there is a lot involved with the technology, getting everyone caught up, and funding the project. The biggest issue is rural counites because they do not have the funding base that larger counties have and the state is trying to develop ways to fund the project to make it possible for everyone. He stated he anticipates there will be a statewide system in 5 to 10 years. Commissioner Zalak requested staff provide the equipment list totaling $2,600,000 and questioned if the items are no longer serviceable. Mr. Daniel advised that the issue is not that the equipment is not serviceable, but that the equipment is running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When equipment is running that long for 5 to 7 years it causes failures and the equipment wears out. The county could replace the system piecemeal to a point, but there comes a time when it is cheaper to replace the entire system rather than replacing individual components. He noted even though the technology is inferior the older equipment is more expensive to replace. Mr. Bouyounes advised that the cost of the project will not come from the General Fund. Commissioner Zalak questioned if any of the replaced equipment is usable to other counties. Mr. Daniel stated it is common practice for a county that gets rid of old equipment to offer it to other counites, but 95 percent (%) of the time it ends up going to an e-waste recycler because it is beyond serviceability. In response to Commissioner Stone, Mr. Daniel advised that long term leasing, equipment ends up costing the county more than purchasing it out right, but staff can bring some options back to the Board. Slide 19 addresses Parks and Recreation. Mr. Roussel stated overall the county is looking at approximately $12,000,000 in projects over the next 5 years. The Master Plan over 10 years projects roughly $32,000,000 of needs in Parks and Recreation, which is the reason the department is trying to shift positions from the Fees Fund into the General Fund, as this will open up funds to perform some of the capital improvements. Slide 20 addresses Solid Waste projects in the Enterprise Funds. Commissioner Gold out at 11:01 a.m.

BOARD DISCUSSION: Commissioner Moore stated the reason why the Board shifted positions to the Enterprise Fund was to relieve some pressure off the General Funds and expressed support for the positions to remain in the Enterprise Fund. Commissioner Zalak advised that the Enterprise Fund was never intended to have positions in it, noting the Board shifted the positions during the recession to keep jobs. As the county is coming out of the recession they need to plan on moving those positions

Page 850, Book X

Page 11: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

back to the General Fund or Marion County will not be able to perform any capital projects and the parks will begin to fall apart. Commissioner Moore concurred. Commissioner Gold returned at 11:03 a.m. In response to Commissioner Stone, Chairman Bryant advised that state funds awarded to SELP will be prioritized, with the first priority being restrooms and second is generators. Commissioner Zalak questioned if the Recreational Vehicle (RV) portion of SELP is included in the plan. Mr. Bouyounes stated the RV park funding request was denied by the state and will not be included in the budget. General discussion ensued. Parks Director/Landscape Architect Jim Couillard, Marion County Parks and Recreation, stated generators will be for emergency purposes during storms. The generators will not power the entire SELP, but will allow staff to maintain restrooms, keep animals safe and everything secure. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Couillard advised that staff is considering 3 backup generators; one for the main covered arena and barn area, one for the back area and another one off to the side that might be able to be an auxiliary power base. The restrooms are the number one priority and coincide with other future potential for the complex. Mr. Bouyounes advised that everything that is done will fit in the SELP Master Plan to complete the whole site. Mr. Bouyounes stated staff is not asking for approval of the 5 Year Budget Plan today, but if there is any specific project the Board is opposed to it will be removed from the list. Also, the Board must keep in mind any of the pay adjustments already done and those that are being considered do not induce any compression issues throughout the organization, but staff will discuss those details during budget workshops. Chairman Bryant advised that the Board will be asking a lot of questions, specifically related to some of the positions. She questioned if there was any item the Board does not want included at this time. Commissioner Zalak stated there are some positions in this coming FY that will be tough to add. Mr. Bouyounes concurred. Commissioner Zalak stated what is being proposed is great from a planning document standpoint and helps the Board understand the future direction of the county. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Bouyounes advised that the fees in the Building Department do not cover the total costs. Staff can bring back the current subsidization rate, but the Board will need to consider adjusting those fees in the next year. Growth Services Director Sam Martsolf advised that roughly 35% of the entire budget is covered with fees. The annual fee income is approximately $800,000 for the last 3 years and staff anticipates the same amount going forward. The reason for the proposed planning positions is to cover the additional tasks requested (i.e. fiscal impact models and more transportation analysis). Commissioner Zalak asked if Marion County's rates are competitive with other areas. Mr. Martsolf advised that the county is generous in its fees and there is a lot of room to charge more, but historically the department has not. Commissioner Zalak stated as the economy recovers development needs to pay for the services that are rendered at some level. In response to Chairman Bryant, Mr. Martsolf advised that Growth Services fees were adjusted and increased several years ago. Commissioner Zalak stated one of the biggest complaints received is the cost of a special use permit, which is $700 and does not cover the county's costs. He opined that the county's fee is too low for Planned Unit Development (PUD), planning and Developments

Book X, Page 851

Page 12: Official Minutes of MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY ... · staff will bring the Board a budget that will be balanced and within the projected revenues, as well as provide options. Staff

March 27, 2018

of Regional Impact (DRI). Mr. Martsolf concurred and advised that up until recently the county did all it could to get folks to come in with those developments, noting the low fees were part of the incentive. On the Code Enforcement side, staff is coming out of doing just the code compliance and being reactive. The department is seeing a lot more need to be proactive in some of the Code Enforcement issues and will require staff. Mr. Bouyounes questioned if the Board was in agreeance to begin considering the fees in the following budget year. It was the general consensus of the Board to agree. Mr. Martsolf advised that staff will also bring back to the Board some ideas on lien amnesties and items that generate a tremendous amount of fees. The county currently has $5,000,000 in liens and the Staff Assistant II position will help in that area. In response to Commissioner Zalak, Mr. Bouyounes stated the fleet expansion is not included in the 5 Year Budgeting Plan because it is too preliminary. Staff is waiting to have the Master Plan for Fire Services because where the Fire Service operation is now may not be the best location. If the plan is to move the station it will open that whole location for a Fleet expansion. Once the Fire Rescue Master Plan is completed then those issues will be brought to the Board.

CLOSING COMMENTS: Chairman Bryant advised that staff has their direction and more discussion will take place during budget workshops.

There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting thereupon adjourned at 11:16 a.m.

athy Brent, Cha man

Attest:

David R. Ellspe mann, Clerk

Page 852, Book X