Year: 2015

REGULAR MEETING
LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCTOBER 20, 2015

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on October 20, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks
Comm. Rock Meeks
Comm. Danny Stevens
Comm. Lilly Rooks
Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:03 A.M.  Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

MINUTES

The minutes for the Special Board meeting held on September 14, 2015 and the Regular Board meeting held on September 22, 2015 were presented for Board approval.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the minutes for the Special Board meeting held on September 14, 2015 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on September 22, 2015 with changes as stated.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Renate Cannon spoke to the Board regarding Department of Public Safety employee raises, specifically why they did not receive a raise in 2013.

Comm. John Meeks explained the Department of Public Safety employees are represented by a union which negotiated their raises separate from the rest of the Board employees.

Mr. Moody also explained how the union negotiation process works for pay increases for these employees.

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

John Meeks, Chairman

A. Recognizing Mr. Robert E. Lowyns as 2015 County Veterans Service Officer of the Year by the                                     Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

Comm. John Meeks made a presentation to Mr. Lowyns for being named the 2015 County Veterans Service Officer of the Year by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

B. Request approval to adopt Resolution 2015-52 supporting proposals by Citrus County, FL, to improve                        and expand recreational facilities around the Cross Florida Barge Canal and surrounding areas.

Comm. John Meeks presented Resolution 2015-52 for Board approval.  This Resolution supports Citrus County in the improvement and expansion of recreational boating facilities, trails, and other recreational improvements in and around the Cross Florida Barge Canal and the surrounding region.

Toni Collins asked if there were any plans included in this Resolution to extend the Nature Trail south to the Withlacoochee River.

Comm. John Meeks stated extending the Nature Trail was not part of the expansion at this time.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-52 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

HAVEN HOSPICE

Anita Howard, Haven Hospice Administrator in Chiefland, Florida requested Board approval of Proclamation 2015-51, recognizing November, 2015 as National Hospice Palliative Care Month.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve Proclamation 2015-51 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Ms. Howard provided an update of the “Fall at the Putnam Lodge” Haven Hospice event held recently in Cross City.

NATURE COAST BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

David Pieklik, Directo

A. Request approval of 2015-2016 Annual Contract between Levy County and Nature Coast                                              Business Development Council.

Mr. Pieklik requested Board approval of the 2015-2016 Annual Contract between Levy County and Nature Coast Business Development Council.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the 2015-2016 Annual Contract between Levy County and Nature Coast Business Development Council as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Review progress report for September to October, 2015.

Mr. Pieklik provided a progress report for September to October, 2015 as requested by the Board.

VISION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Pastor Carl Carnegie

Pastor Carnegie spoke to the Board regarding sidewalk access to Vision Christian Academy in Raleigh.  He stated he is concerned for the safety of the children attending school and for those in the community walking to the park as well.  Pastor Carnegie stated there is a large volume of constructions trucks which pass through this area regularly.

Comm. John Meeks stated he and some others will be visiting the area today to see if anything can be done with regard to any alternatives which could be utilized.

Mr. Moody stated he will research this situation and give an update to the Board at the next meeting the possibility of other funding sources.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

COUNTY COORDINATOR

Fred Moody,

A. Request approval of Funding Agreement between Levy County and Meridian for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the Funding Agreement between Levy County and Meridian for fiscal year 2015-2016.  The funding amount agreed upon by the Board during budget discussions was $18,750 per quarter, which is the same amount as last fiscal year.

Comm. Stevens stated he did not agree with the amount of funding for Meridian and would like to see it reduced.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the Funding Agreement between Levy County and Meridian for fiscal year 2015-2016 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request date and workshop for proposed ordinance amending Chapter 47 of the Levy County Code of                      Ordinances pertaining to Impact Fees.

Mr. Moody requested the Board set a workshop date for a proposed Ordinance amending Chapter 47 of the Levy County Code of Ordinances pertaining to Impact Fees.

It was agreed by the Board to set a Workshop for November 3rd at 11:00 A.M. or immediately following the Regular Board meeting.

ASSISTANT TO THE COUNTY COORDINATOR

Wilbur Dean

A. Requesting approval of the Board and signature of the Chair on the USDA Rural Development Grant                          Letter of Support for the Town of Inglis.

Mr. Dean requested Board approval and signature of the Chairman for the USDA Rural Development Grant Letter of Support for the Town of Inglis.  If approved, the Grant funds will be used for the addition of bays at the existing fire station in Inglis.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Letter of Support for the Town of Inglis with the Chairman’s signature as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request approval of the Board to accommodate the City of Williston’s request to waive Waste-Pro,                               USA dumping fees for the City clean-up event that will be held on October 24, 2015.

Mr. Dean requested approval of the Board of the City of Williston’s request to waive Waste-Pro, USA dumping fees for the City Clean-up event to be held October 24, 2015.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to waive the Waste-Pro, USA dumping fees as requested by the City of Williston as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

Tammy Jones

Request approval of the Board to alter precinct lines for future elections (Florida Statute 101.001).

Mrs. Jones requested Board approval to alter precinct lines for future elections (Florida Statute 101.001).  Altering the precinct lines will enable voters more convenience when voting at their polling place on Election Day.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the request to alter precinct lines as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the motion carries.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

John MacDonald, Director

Request approval to contract with the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council for the 5 year LMS (Local Mitigation Strategy) Plan Re-write.  Agreement will be paid out of 2015 SHSGP (State Homeland Security Grant Program) Funds.

Mr. MacDonald requested Board approval of the contract with North Central Florida Regional Planning Council for the 5 year LMS (Local Mitigation Strategy) Plan Re-write.  This Agreement will be paid from the 2015 SHSGP (State Homeland Security Grant Program) Funds.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the contract with the North Florida Central Florida Regional Planning Council as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

LEVY COUNTY TRANSIT

Connie Conley, General Manager

Request Board approval of an agreement for a grant award of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged Shirley Conroy Rural Area Capital Assistance Program Grant.

Mrs. Conley requested Board approval of an Agreement for a grant award of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged Shirley Conroy Rural Area Capital Assistance Program Grant in the amount of $73,259.  This grant was approved at 100% for the purchase of one cutaway vehicle with seating capacity of 12 and 2 wheelchair positions.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the Agreement for a grant award of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged Shirley Conroy Rural Area Capital Assistance Program Grant as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PARKS & RECREATION

Matt Weldon, Director

Request approval to apply for the RIVER Funding Assistance grant through Suwannee River Water Management District for the Blue Springs Project.

Mr. Weldon requested Board approval to apply for the RIVER Funding Assistance grant through Suwannee River Water Management District for the Blue Springs Project.  The funding amount requested for this phase is $300,000 and would be used for the dredging of Blue Springs and Little Blue Springs as well as restoration around the spring wall.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the application for RIVER Funding Assistance grant as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PLANNING

Shenley Neely, Planning Director

Staff respectfully requests the Board hear a follow up report and provide further direction on the issue of transferring lands currently within the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) into the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) creating a single WMD for Levy County.

Ms. Neely requested Board direction regarding the issue of transferring lands currently within the Southwest Florida Management District (SWFWMD) into the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD), creating a single WMD for Levy County.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to direct staff to draft a letter to both Water Management Districts informing them of the County’s proposal.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to direct staff to work with appropriate parties to draft proposed legislation as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

NON-AGENDA ITEM

SHIP DEPARTMENT

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to hear a non-agenda item.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

Ms. Neely requested Board approval for the SHIP Annual Reports for 2013/2014 to be submitted to Florida Housing Finance Corporation with the Chairman’s signature.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the SHIP Annual Reports for fiscal year 2013/2014 with the Chairman’s signature as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC SAFETY

David Knowles, Director

Requesting approval to purchase the following Capital Equipment, two (2) 2016 Ford F-550 Chassis from Coggins Ford, in Jacksonville, Florida, $79,046.00, one (1) light rescue module from Emergency Tactical Vehicle in Sanford, Florida $104,581.00, one (1) remount/recondition Pierce mini-pumper (squad) from Emergency Tactical Vehicles in Sanford, Florida $56,517.00. – TABLED –

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Anne Bast Brown

Request consideration of an offer of $1,500 to settle an outstanding SHIP mortgage for Maggie and Gregory Allen with a balance due of $8,470.05 and if accepted, approve a Satisfaction of Mortgage contingent on receipt of the settlement offer amount.  The settlement and Satisfaction will allow a sale of the Allen property and conclude the County’s interest in the foreclosure in Nationstar Mortgage, LLC, v. Allen, Case No. 38-2015-CA-000085, in the Circuit Court for the Eighth Judicial Circuit, Levy County.

Atty. Brown requested the Board consider an offer of $1,500 to settle an outstanding SHIP mortgage for Maggie and Gregory Allen with a balance due of $8,470.05 and, if accepted, approve a Satisfaction of Mortgage contingent on receipt of the settlement offer amount.

Natalie Thomas, the Realtor for this property spoke to the Board and encouraged them to accept the offer.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to accept the $1,500 offer to settle the SHIP mortgage for Maggie and Gregory Allen and approval of a Satisfaction of Mortgage as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Ron Grant commented on the Billboards placed along I-75 advertising Levy County.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. Rock Meeks reminded everyone of several upcoming events:

October 24thLARC Ride to Provide:

Levy County Education Foundation Beast Feast
Morriston Baptist Church Fall Festival

October 28thChiefland First Baptist, Fall Fun Night

Comm. John Meeks invited everyone to the Bronson Trunk of Treats event on October 31st at the Youth League field starting at 6:00 P.M.  The Addams Family musical is playing at the Chief Theatre in Chiefland.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11:12 A.M.

ATTEST:    BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________     ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp    Chairman, John Meeks

SPECIAL MEETING
LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

The Special Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 30, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks
Comm. Rock Meeks
Comm. Danny Stevens
Comm. Lilly Rooks
Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

Danny J. Shipp – Clerk of Court
County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:00 A.M. Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

CHECK NUMBER 121179-121317
FUND AMOUNT
GENERAL REVENUE 94,977.75
ROAD 279,629.68
PAL LIBRARY 4,706.64
TRANSPORTATION 8,984.17
911 1,515.46
EMS 163,941.10
FIRE 104,830.49
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT 562.91
UTILITIES 156.86
DRUG TASK FORCE 13,370.00
CAPITAL PROJECTS 70,527.72
LANDFILL 5,386.47
TOTAL $ 748,589.25

FINANCE

Sheila Rees
Request approval of Resolution 2015-50 amending the final budget for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Mrs. Rees requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-50 amending the final budget for fiscal year 2015-2016. The total budget increase is $110,360,000 in the two funds, General Fund and E911 Fund due to four (4) grants.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-50 amending the final budget for fiscal year 2015-2016 as presented. Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

COUNTY COORDINATOR

Fred Moody
A. Present proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the Board and Laborers International Union of North America Local 630 and a proposed 3% salary increase for consideration.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the Board of County Commissioners and the Laborers International Union of North America Local 630 and a proposed 3% salary increase effective October 1, 2015 and a comp time accrual protocol for a 1 year trial period.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve with the Chairman’s signature the Memorandum of Understanding between the Board of County Commissioners and the Laborers International Union of North America Local 630, a 3% pay raise and comp time accrual protocol as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request approval of Lease, Addendum A, and updated Disclosure Statement between Levy County and Fresh from Florida.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the Lease, Addendum A, and updated Disclosure Statement between Levy County and Fresh from Florida. The lease is for two years at $150.00 per month.

Comm. Joyner made a motion made a motion to approve the Lease, Addendum A, and updated Disclosure Statement between Levy County and Fresh from Florida as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Request approval of proposed write-offs of uncollected, past due University Oaks and Manatee Utilities water bills.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the proposed write-offs of uncollected, past due University Oaks and Manatee Utilities water bills for 2010 through 2013. The amounts are as follows:

University Oaks $ 1,024.03
Manatee Utilities $ 60.54

Total $ 1,085.57

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the write-offs as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

ASSISTANT TO THE COUNTY COORDINATOR

Wilbur Dean
Ratification of September 23, 2015 letter to Natural Resource Conservation Service requesting Federal assistance.

Mr. Dean requested ratification by the Board of a letter dated September 23, 2015 to the Natural Resources Conservation Service requesting assistance with the flooding in the Inglis/Yankeetown area.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to ratify the letter with the Chairman’s signature to the Natural Resources Conservation Service as presented. Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

ROAD DEPARTMENT

Bruce Greenlee, Administrative Road Superintendent
Request approval for easement to Central Florida Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Casey Duquette requested on behalf of Mr. Greenlee Board approval if an Easement with Central Florida Electric Cooperative, Inc. to allow power to be provided to a new customer of CFEC.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the Easement with Central Florida Electric Cooperative, Inc. as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

Carol McQueen, Director
Request approval to submit an application to the Big Bend Seed Grant for $20,000 maximum amount (non-matching) to the Conservation Fund by October 8, 2015.

Mrs. McQueen requested Board approval to submit an application to the Big Bend Seed Grant for $20,000 maximum amount to the Conservation Fund by October 8, 2015. The project would be a Shellfish Trail, a map/brochure and web development. The Shellfish trail would tell, 1) where to learn about shellfish – i.e., areas to tour, fish or harvest shellfish, 2) buy shellfish and, 3) eat shellfish like oysters, clams, scallops in restaurants within the coastal communities of Levy, Dixie, Taylor and Jefferson counties.

Comm. Rooks requested the recreational harvesting of clams be added to the list of shellfish which could be harvested.
Mrs. McQueen stated this could be added as well as an addition within the budget to advertise for the programs “kick-off”.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve submittal of an application to the Big Bend Seed Grant as requested. Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. Joyner stated there will be several events taking place on October 24th:
LARC “Ride to Provide”
Morriston Baptist Church Fall Festival and Fish Fry
Levy County Education Foundation “Beast Feast” at the Etheridge Cracker House, Williston

Events taking place on October 17th are:
Cedar Key Seafood Festival, October 17th & 18th
Haven Hospice “Fall at the Putnam Lodge” in Cross City

Comm. Joyner stated the Williston Peanut Festival will be this weekend, October 3rd beginning with the Purple Pinkie 5K.

Comm. John Meeks stated the Commissioners had been asked to participate at the Beast Feast. Leslie Sturmer has informed him clams will be provided for the Commissioners to serve.

Carol McQueen reminded everyone the “Taste of Cedar Key” will take place this weekend in Cedar Key and the Florida High School Rodeo will be in Williston at the Horsemen’s Park.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 9:35 A.M.

ATTEST: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________ ________________________________________
Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp Chairman, John Meeks

REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 22, 2015

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 22, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

Danny J. Shipp – Clerk of Court 

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown 

County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:00 A.M.  Comm. Joyner gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

MINUTES

The minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on August 18^th, 2015 and the Tentative Budget Hearing held on September 3, 2015 were presented for Board approval.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on August 18^th, 2015 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Tentative Budget Hearing held on September 3, 2015 with corrections.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Renate Cannon requested more meeting agendas be made available for the public.

Elijah Williams spoke to the Board regarding his concerns from a recent 911 call he made.  Mr. Williams stated the operator attempted to ask numerous health questions regarding the patient he felt were unnecessary.

Kay Gaither suggested the Animal Services Department use more volunteers the next time a pet adoption event is held instead of paid employees.  She also commented on some of the dogs not being bathed before being brought to the event.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Bill Henderson

Presentation of Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) County Work Program Priorities.

Mr. Henderson spoke to the Board of the Florida Department of Transportation County Work Program Priorities and also extended an invitation for the Public Workshop to be held in Lake City District Office on October 8^th from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Mr. Henderson stated Jordan Green has been promoted from his position as the rural liaison for this area and introduced Barney Bennett who will be taking his place.

ANIMAL CONTROL

David Weatherford gave a report to the Board of the recent Pet Adoption event held in Chiefland.  He stated there were 9 dogs and 4 cats adopted.  Mr. Weatherford also stated all animals brought to the event were given de-wormer.

Albert Reese, Lucille Reese and Donna Rowe spoke regarding volunteering at Animal Control.

Toni Collins spoke positively regarding the efforts of the Animal Control Department.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

Carol McQueen, Director

Request approval of an amendment to the original 2014-2015 contract with Collinson & Company d/b/a Interfuse Media.  The Amendment will continue our contract with them to provide media marketing for another twelve (12) months, for our 2015-2016 fiscal year.  The Levy County Tourist Development and Levy County Board of County Commissioners approved the 2015-2016 Marketing Plan which includes this contract.

Mrs. McQueen requested Board approval of an amendment to the original 2-14-2015 contract with Collinson & Company d/b/a Interfuse Media.  This Amendment to Agreement is to allow for another year, (12 months) starting October 1, 2015 for Collinson & Company d/b/a Interfuse Media to provide digital media marketing according to the Interfuse Complete Deliverable Schedule for a contract price of $24,000.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Amendment to Agreement as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

LEVY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Barbara Locke, Administrator

Presenting the Annual County Contract between the Florida Department of Health, Levy County and the Board of County Commissioners, Levy County for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Mrs. Locke requested Board approval of the Annual County Contract between the Florida Department of Health, Levy County and the Board of County Commissioners, Levy County for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Annual County Contract as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

WAR, INC. D/B/A WITHLACOOCHEE AQUATIC RESTORATION

Dan Hilliard, President

A presentation to update the County Commission regarding changes to the Lower Withlacoochee River Environmental Assessment project.  Discussion will include identification of new partnerships with State agencies and the community.

Mr. Hilliard gave an update to the Board regarding changes to the Lower Withlacoochee River Environmental Assessment project.  He also updated the Board about partnerships with State agencies and the communities and Yankeetown and Inglis.

NATURE COAST BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

David Pieklik, Executive Director

Presenting proposed business incentives guide and application, as well as discuss a draft ordinance.

Mr. Pieklik presented the two (2) proposed business incentives program guides and applications for new and existing businesses; the Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemptions (EDATE) program, and the Economic Development Fund (EDF).  The applications would be reviewed by the Levy County Property Appraiser, Nature Coast Business Development Council and Levy County staff prior to being presented to the Board of County Commissioners for final determination.

After discussion, the Board agreed by consensus to conduct a Workshop following the next Regular Board meeting scheduled for October 6^th.

LEVY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Mike West, 911 Addressing

Request signature on CenturyLink Agreements for Centurion and Evergreen.

Mr. West requested Board approval and the Chairman’s signature on the CenturyLink Agreements for Centurion and Evergreen.  Approval of the Agreements will provide coverage for one year on the PSAP equipment and software.  Funding for this coverage will be paid from funds received from the E911 Board through a Rural County Grant.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve with the Chairman’s signature the CenturyLink Agreements for Centurion and Evergreen as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

COUNTY COORDINATOR

Fred Moody

1. Request approval of the Board to accommodate the City of Fanning Springs request to waive Waste Pro USA dumping fees for the City clean up event that will be held on October 3, 2015.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval to grant the City of Fanning Springs’ request to waive Waste Pro, USA dumping fees for the City clean up event to be held on October 3, 2015.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to waive the dumping fees for the City of Fanning Springs for their clean up event as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

2. Request approval of the Board to remove Interim from John MacDonald’s job title and place him as Director of Emergency Management at current rate of pay.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval to remove “Interim” from John MacDonald’s job title and place him as Director of Emergency Management at the current rate of pay.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to remove “Interim” from John MacDonald’s job title and place him as Director of Emergency Management as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

3. Request approval of the Board and signature of the Chairman on a letter to Mrs. Linda Fugate giving Board approval to send out tax deed warning letters on impending tax deed application, as requested.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval with the Chairman’s signature on a letter to Mrs. Linda Fugate, Tax Collector giving Board approval to send out Tax Deed warning letters on impending Tax Deed Applications.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve with the Chairman’s signature a letter to Mrs. Linda Fugate, Tax Collector giving Board approval to send out Tax Deed warning letters as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

4. Request approval to award the bid for auctioneering services to Atkins Realty and Auction.

Mr. Moody requested the Board award the bid for auctioneering services to Atkins Realty and Auction.  After advertising bid or auctioneering services, the Board Office received one submittal, Atkins Realty and Auction with fees of 7.92% of the final bid price.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to award the bid for auctioneering services to Atkins Realty and Auction as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Jacqueline Martin, Manager

Present proposed Privacy Policy and Procedures as they pertain to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. (HIPPA)

Mrs. Martin presented the proposed Privacy Policy and Procedures as they pertain to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) for Board approval.  The purpose of this document is to outline the County’s policy on the privacy of employee protected health information under the HIPPA rules.  Mrs. Martin stated Addendum A has not been finalized and requested Board approval for the Chairman to sign upon completion.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Privacy Policy and Procedures as they pertain to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act with the Chairman’s signature on Addendum A as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC SAFETY

David Knowles, Director

1. Request approval by the Board and the Chairman’s signature to execute the first two (2) year option to renew the Agreement between Levy County and the University of Florida, Board of Trustees for Medical Director Services.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval with the Chairman’s signature to execute the first two (2) year option to renew the Agreement between Levy County and the University of Florida, Board of Trustees for Medical Director Services.

Dr. Jason Jones, Medical Director and Dr. Tindall spoke to the Board and addressed Mr. Williams’ concerns regarding the call made to Levy County 911.  He stated the questions the dispatcher asked of the caller were part of a new system called “Emergency Medical Dispatch” which is the international gold standard for dispatching.  Dr. Jones stated when the dispatcher is asking questions, an ambulance is already on its way.  The questions being asked are to determine if anything can be done before the ambulance arrives to assist the person in need.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the Chairman’s signature on the Agreement between Levy County and the University of Florida, Board of Trustees for Medical Director Services as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

2. Requesting the Board to ratify acceptance of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) in the amount of $50,486.00 from the Department of Homeland Security for a health and wellness program to include exercise equipment and physical exams.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval to ratify acceptance of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) in the amount of $50,486.00 from the Department of Homeland Security for a Health and Wellness Program to include exercise equipment and physical exams.  The County’s obligation is $2,524.00 and will come from the Capital Equipment line of the Fire budget.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to ratify acceptance of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

3. Request approval of the Board to purchase equipment for the Department.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval to purchase the following:

8 self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA’s)

from Ten-8 Fire Equipment                                                                                                    $44,509.80

3 power stretchers from Stryker                                                                                             $50,414.94

4 stair chairs from Stryker                                                                                                       $10,509.78

Chief Knowles stated the purchases will be made by expending funds from the Capital Equipment line item budget for FY 2015/2016. Two of the three stretchers can be traded-in toward the purchase of three new stretchers.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the purchases as listed above and to use the two old stretchers as trade-in.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

4. Request approval to purchase two (2) new Type III Ambulance units from Emergency Tactical Rescue Vehicles in Sanford, Florida, manufactured by American Emergency Vehicles.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval to purchase two (2) new Type III ambulance units from Emergency Tactical Rescue Vehicles in Sanford, Florida, manufactured by American Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $287,264.00.  The purchase price is from the Florida Sheriff’s Association Bid Contract.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the purchase of two (2) new Type III ambulance units from Emergency Tactical Rescue Vehicles in the amount of $287,264 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

Jim Jones, Director

Request approval of the Board to purchase a truck through State Bid.

Mr. Jones requested Board approval to purchase a service body 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 through State Bid in the amount of $32,179 using current year funds.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the purchase of a new truck as requested in the amount of $32,179 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

SOLID WASTE

Benny Jerrels, Director

Request Board approval of Levy County’s service agreement with the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council for the new fiscal year 2016.

Rod Hastings requested on behalf of Mr. Jerrels Board approval of the Levy County Service Agreement with the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council for the new fiscal year, 2016.  This agreement is renewed annually for the annual verification of hazardous waste management practices.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Service Agreement with the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Toni Collins stated she had received notification the grant which she had submitted an application to the State for the Levy County Historical Society to fund the water archaeological study would not be granted.

Mrs. Collins also reminded everyone of the LARC “Ride to Provide” event coming up on October 24^th and of the “Taste of Cedar Key” event on October 3^rd.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. Joyner reminded everyone the LARC “Ride to Provide” event and the Levy County Education Foundation Beast Feast will both be taking place on October 24^th.  The Cedar Key Seafood Festival is scheduled for October 17^th and 18^th.

Comm. Stevens stated the Williston Peanut Festival will be on October 3^rd.

Comm. John Meeks stated the Haven Hospice event “Fall at the Lodge” will be on October 17^th in Cross City at the Putnam Lodge.

Comm. John Meeks requested Board approval to re-appoint Skipper Henderson to the Value Adjustment Board.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to re-appoint Skipper Henderson to the Value Adjustment Board as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. John Meeks stated the School Board is scheduled to select their two individuals to serve on the Value
Adjustment Board today.

Comm. John Meeks announced there will be a VAB organizational meeting on October 6^th at 8:30 A.M. where a Chairman and Vice-Chairman will be selected.  October 19^th has been selected as the Hearing Date for VAB.

Comm. John Meeks stated there is a planning/visioning meeting scheduled for Thursday morning at the Cedar Key Museum which he serves as Chairman.

Toni Collins added there is a Public Meeting for the Cedar Key Museum scheduled for Wednesday evening from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.

NON-AGENDA ITEM

Comm. Rooks requested the Board consider hearing a non-agenda item regarding G Street in Cedar Key.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to hear a non-agenda item.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to allow the Grants Coordinator, Tisha Whitehurst to write a grant for the re-paving of G Street in Cedar Key.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

• Reminder: Executive Session at the office of the County Attorney at 11:00 A.M.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11:03 A.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                     BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                    ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                  Chairman, John Meeks

FINAL BUDGET HEARING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 14, 2015

The Final Budget Hearing of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 14, 2015 at 6:00 P.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

Clerk of Court – Danny J. Shipp 

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown 

County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.  Comm. Joyner gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Non Ad-Valorem Special Assessments

1. Requesting approval of Resolution 2015-37, Annual rates for Fire Protection Services.

Comm. John Meeks presented the Annual Rate Resolution for Fire Protection Services, Resolution 2015-37 for Board approval.  Mr. Moody stated the rates for each of the Resolution are the same as last year.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the Annual Rate Resolution for Fire Protection Services.  There were none.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-37 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

2. Request approval of Resolution 2015-38, Annual rate for EMS Tax Assessment.

Comm. John Meeks presented the Annual EMS Tax Assessment Rate Resolution, Resolution 2015-38 for Board approval.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the Annual EMS Tax Assessment Resolution.
Renate Cannon and Dana Sheffield spoke.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-38 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

3. Request approval of Resolution 2015-39, Annual rate for Solid Waste Assessment.

Comm. John Meeks presented the Annual Rate Resolution for Solid Waste Assessments, Resolution 2015-39 for Board approval.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the Annual Solid Waste Assessment Resolution.

Dana Sheffield spoke.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-39 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

4. Request approval of Resolution 2015-40, Annual rate for Roadway Maintenance Service Assessments.

Comm. John Meeks presented the Annual Rate Resolution for Roadway Maintenance Service Assessments, Resolution 2015-40 for Board approval.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the Annual Rate Resolution for Roadway Maintenance Service Assessments.

Sallie Ann Collins spoke.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-40 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Finance

Sheila Rees

1. Request approval of Resolution 2015-44 for adopting the Final Millage for Fiscal Year 2015-2016.

Mrs. Rees requested the Board approve Resolution 2015-44, adopting the Final Millage for Fiscal Year 2015-2016.  Mrs. Rees stated the millage rate had been tentatively set at 8.2741, which funds the budget as currently calculated, with the rolled back rate of 8.1662.  The tentative millage rate is 1.32% over the rolled back rate.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the millage rate.

Renate Cannon spoke.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-44, adopting the final millage rate at 8.2741 with the rolled back rate of 8.1662 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

2. Request approval of Resolution 2015-45 for the adoption of the Final Budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016.

Mrs. Rees requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-45 for the adoption of the Final Budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016.  Mrs. Rees provided information to the Board members of amendments to the tentative budget previously approved.  The total amount for the amendments will increase the budget by $1,104,854.  If approved, the total budget for fiscal year 2015-2016 will be $60,523,360.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the final budget as presented.

Dana Sheffield spoke.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the amendments as presented and to approve Resolution 2015-45 adopting the fiscal year 2015-2016 final budget in the amount of $60,523,360.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:00 P.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                     BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                    ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                  Chairman, John Meeks

REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 8, 2015

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 8, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:00 A.M.  Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

MINUTES

The minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on August 4, 2015 were presented for approval.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on August 4, 2015 as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Ivan Chubb presented to the Board an American flag honoring those who died on 9/11/01 in the World Trade Center terrorist attack.

Director of Veterans Services, Robert Lowyns stated the flag will be on display at the Levy County Veterans Services office.

Michael Gaither questioned the removal of the handicap parking space which had recently been marked in front the courthouse.

Comm. John Meeks stated there are guidelines set by the ADA which must be complied with and the location along the street did not comply with these guidelines.

Kay Gaither thanked Mr. Moody for the call notifying herself and Mr. Gaither of the removal of the handicap space.

Mrs. Gaither commented on the Animal Services Department not giving worm medication to adult dogs.

PUBLIC HEARING

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Atty. Brown administered the swearing in procedures for those wishing to speak for or against any of the items to be presented.

Bill Hammond, Director

A. Request the Board to proceed to approve Hardship Variance Ha. Va. 15-05 for John McGowan II.

Mr. Hammond requested Board approval of Hardship Variance Ha. Va. 15-05 for John McGowan, II.

Comm. John Meeks asked if any of the Commissioners had any ex-parte communication with the petitioner.  There were none.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the petition.  There were none.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve Hardship Variance Ha. Va. 15-05 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request the Board to proceed to adopt Resolution 2015-41 for Ronald and Linda Gillman.

Mr. Hammond requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-41, Plat Vacation of “US 19 No. 10 Addition” for Ronald and Linda Gillman.

Comm. John Meeks asked if any of the Commissioners had any ex-parte communication with the petitioners.  There were none.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the petition.

Ronald Gillman spoke.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-41 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Request the Board to proceed to adopt the Order to Approve for Frank A. Marino, Jr. and Scott P. McKinley, Trustee. (SE 15-03).

Mr. Hammond requested Board proceed to adopt the Order to Approve or Order to Deny for Frank A. Marino, Jr. and Scott P. McKinley, Trustee (SE 15-03).  The Special Exception is to allow on-premise sales and consumption of alcohol at Scooter Haven Country Club, Inc. in Inglis.

Comm. John Meeks asked if any of the Commissioners had any ex-parte communication with the petitioners.  Comm. Stevens, Comm. Rock Meeks, Comm. Rooks, Comm. Joyner and Comm. John Meeks all stated they had ex-parte communication with the petitioners.

One of the applicants, Lewis Falco presented information to the Board regarding the petition.

Comm. John Meeks asked if anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the petition.  Those who spoke are listed below:

            For                                                                  Against

            Cheryl Eckert                                                  Carl Roof

            Mitch Gerardi                                                 Juanita Roof

            Lewis Falco                                                     Carl Roof, Jr.

            Lisa Flanders                                                   Eldridge Fowler

                                                                                    Gary Jones

                                                                                    Renate Cannon

                                                                                    Robert Roar

                                                                                    Kay Gaither

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Order to Deny for SE 15-03.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

The meeting recessed at 10:15 A.M.

The meeting reconvened at 10:26 A.M.

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Bill Hammond, Director

Request signature of Chairman for the NFIP, AW 214 Annual Re-certification.

Mr. Hammond requested Board approval of the Annual Re-Certification, Form AW-214-1 due to FEMA by October 1^st each year.  This form requires the Development Department to certify the continued implementation of credited activities required by the County’s participation in the CRS. (Community Rating System)

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the NFIP, AW-214-1 Re-certification as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

SOUTH LEVY RESIDENTS

Ms. Pam Willis and Mr. Eldridge Fowler

Request more assistance with flood control in Inglis and South Levy County.  (CR 40A and Butler Road)

Pam Willis and Eldridge made a presentation to the Board regarding the flooding in the area of CR 40A and Butler Road near Inglis.  They stated they wanted the Board take action to replace the culverts or add a bridge north of C40A and to clean out the mosquito control ditch located north of C40A on US19.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

COUNTY COORDINATOR

Fred Moody

A. Presenting proposed addition to “Assistant to the County Coordinator” job description.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the proposed addition to the “Assistant to the County Coordinator” job description.  The requested addition is:  In the absence of the County Coordinator the Assistant to the County Coordinator is authorized to sign internal documents such as payroll, purchase orders, budget transfers, leave and travel requests or other internal documents as determined by the County Coordinator.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the addition to the Assistant to the County Coordinator job description as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request approval to partner with Town of Bronson in paving of NE 80^th Street also known as “School Street”.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval to partner with the Town of Bronson in the paving of NE 80^th Street, also known as School Street.  The county portion of this street is already scheduled to be paved.  The Town of Bronson has agreed to pay the amount of $34,058.15, the estimated cost for the Road Department to include the portion of the street maintained by the Town.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Road Department partnering with the Town of Bronson in the paving of NE 80^th Street as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Request approval of Renewal and Amendment of Lease made as of October 1, 2015 between Hudson Properties, Inc. and Levy County, for Guardian Ad Litem.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the Renewal and Amendment of Lease made as of October 1, 2015 between Hudson Properties, Inc. and Levy County, for Guardian Ad Litem.  The monthly lease amount is shared by Levy and Gilchrist County.  Mr. Moody stated the monthly portion to be paid by Levy County is $1,078.86.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Renewal and Amendment of Lease as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

ASSISTANT TO THE COUNTY COORDINATOR

Wilbur Dean

Request approval to donate a surplus vehicle to AMVETS of Levy County, District 16.  Asset #6697, VIN# 1FDWE35S95HA30285, 2005 Ford, formerly LCT 14.

Mr. Dean requested Board approval to donate a surplus vehicle from the Transit Department to AMVETS of Levy County, District 16.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the donation of a vehicle from the Transit Department to AMVETS of Levy County, District 16 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

CLERK OF THE COURT

Danny J. Shipp

Update on Value Adjustment Board, (VAB).

Wilbur Dean gave an update on behalf of Mr. Shipp on the Value Adjustment Board to the Commissioners and stated it is time for the Board to select which Commissioners would serve for 2015.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to appoint Comm. John Meeks and Comm. Joyner to the VAB.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

COUNTY AGENT

Albert Fuller, Director

Requesting a donation from the County Commissioners for building an apiary education exhibit at the Levy County Extension Office address.

Mr. Fuller introduced Kathy Johnson who will be maintaining the bees in the apiary education exhibit at the Ag. Extension property.  Ms. Johnson gave a presentation to the Board of the plans for the apiary exhibit and requested a donation from the Board to install an 8 ft. wall around the exhibit with glass for viewing.  The cost for this wall enclosure would be $4,085 and Ms. Johnson stated there is someone willing to match the Board’s contribution.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve donating $2,042.50 toward the expense of building the wall around the apiary exhibit.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

GRANTS COORDINATOR

Tisha Whitehurst

Ratify the approval and submittal by Fred Moody, County Coordinator, of the application for Planning Assistance for the RESTORE Act Direct Component Non-Construction Activities, and authorize the County Coordinator to approve and submit any amendments to the application.

Mrs. Whitehurst requested the Board ratify and approve Fred Moody, County Coordinator to submit the application for Planning Assistance for the RESTORE Act Direct Component Non-Construction Activities, and to authorize the County Coordinator to approve and submit any amendments to the application.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to ratify and approve submittal by Mr. Moody of the application as requested and to approve Mr. Moody to approve and submit any amendments to the application as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

LIBRARY

Lisa Brasher, Director

Request approval of State Aid to Libraries Grant Agreement for FY 2015/16.

Ms. Brasher requested Board approval of the State Aid to Libraries Grant Agreement for FY 2015/2016.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the State Aid to Libraries Grant Agreement for FY 2015/2016 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC SAFETY

David Knowles, Director

A. Presenting Public Safety quarterly report.

Chief Knowles gave a presentation of the quarterly Public Safety Report.

B Requesting approval of the Board for FY 2014-2015 third quarter write-off’s.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval of the FY 2014-2015 third quarter write-off’s in the amount of $95,321.52.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the FY 2014-2015 third quarter write-off’s as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Requesting approval for the purchase of a server from Dell for $3,819.42.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval for the purchase of a Dell server in the amount of $3,819.42.  Chief Knowles stated the cost of the server is according to State contract and will be purchased directly from Dell as all of the other equipment for their system at the Department of Public Safety is also Dell.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the purchase of a Dell server as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

ROAD DEPARTMENT

Bruce Greenlee, Administrative Road Superintendent

Request permission of the Board to seek Right of Way for SE 160^th Ave.

Mr. Greenlee requested Board approval to seek 60 ft. Right of Way for a portion of SE 160^th Ave not currently county maintained.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve seeking Right of Way for a portion of SE 160^th Ave. as requested by Mr. Greenlee.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Rooks requested information from Mr. Greenlee regarding the bridges in Cedar Key.

Mr. Greenlee stated he had spoken with someone from Universal Engineers recently and is waiting for a call to schedule a time in which someone can come out to look at the approach to the bridge.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Anne Bast Brown

Request approval of waiver of requirements of SS.122.313 (3) and (7), Fla. Stat. for Chris Cowart and Marilyn Ladner as members of the RESTORE Act Advisory Committee.

Atty. Brown requested Board approval for the waiver of requirements of SS.122.313 (3) and (7), Fla. Stat. for Chris Cowart and Marilyn Ladner as members of the RESTORE Act Advisory Committee.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the waiver of requirements of SS.122.313 (3) and (7) as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Toni Collins requested there be clearer information be added to the Board meeting Agenda’s.

Dana Sheffield echoed Mrs. Collins’ request for clearer information on the Board meeting Agenda’s.

Donna Rowe spoke to the Board regarding the requirement of drug testing and background checks for Animal Service volunteers.

Lucille Reese also spoke regarding volunteering at Animal Services.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. Joyner stated the local Ranch Rodeo Team will be competing in the State Finals held in Kissimmee on September 25^th and 26^th.

Comm. Rooks stated Friday, September 11^th there will be a prayer service held at the Episcopal Church in Cedar Key at 12:00 P.M. and all are welcome to attend.

Comm. Rooks stated there will be an Animal Service Report given every three (3) months instead of monthly.

Comm. John Meeks announced the next Legislative Delegation meeting will be on Monday, September 21^st at 9:30 A.M. at the Dogan Cobb Municipal Building in Bronson.

Comm. John Meeks stated he had recently attended a RESTORE Act meeting where “Pot 3” money was discussed.

Comm. John Meeks brought up the issue of videotaping of Board meetings for discussion.

Terry Witt stated there would be transparency if the meetings were videotaped and would like to see it available on the Clerk’s website along with the meetings audio and minutes.

Ms. Jones stated she was videoing from her phone and it was available live on the Chiefland Citizen website at no charge.

Other audience members who spoke were:  Kay Gaither, Lucille Reese, Albert Reese, Mrs. Meeks.

It was agreed by the Commissioners videoing done for the meeting would not be necessary as it was already being done by different members of the audience.

• The meeting to adopt the Final Budget is scheduled for September 14^th at 6:00 P.M.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 12:21 P.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                     BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

                                                                                                    LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                    ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                  Chairman, John Meeks

TENTATIVE BUDGET HEARING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

The Tentative Budget Hearing of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on September 3, 2015 at 6:00 P.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 6:04 P.M.  Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Resolution 2015-42 adopting the Tentative Levying of Ad Valorem Taxes for Levy County for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Sheila Rees presented the millage rate to be adopted by the Board.  She stated the proposed millage rate is 8.2741, which is 1.32% over the rolled back rate of 8.1662.  The budget as presented is based on the proposed millage rate.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone wishing to speak for or against the proposed millage rate.

Dana Sheffield spoke.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-42 adopting the millage rate of 8.2741.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Rooks questioned how much cash forward was from EMS and Fire.  Mrs. Rees stated she would get the exact amount for Comm. Rooks.

Resolution 2015-43 adopting the Tentative Budget for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Mrs. Rees stated the tentative budget amount is $59,418,506.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone wishing to speak for or against the tentative budget.  There were none.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-43 adopting the tentative budget as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Terry Witt asked if a pay raise was included in the budget calculations for the EMS and Fire Departments.

Mr. Moody answered this is still in the negotiation phase.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 6:30 P.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                     BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                    ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                  Chairman, John Meeks

REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

AUGUST 18, 2015

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on August 18, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

Danny J. Shipp – Clerk of Court

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:00 A.M.  Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Pamela Willis spoke to the Board regarding the flooding situation in Inglis and Yankeetown due to recent heavy rains and culverts which do not adequately allow excess water to flow through.  She stated a group of concerned homeowners will be coming in to the next Board meeting with a more in depth presentation.

Eldridge Fowler also expressed concerns of flooding in the Inglis area.

Barbara Snow spoke to the Board regarding the issue of handicap parking spaces.  Mrs. Snow encouraged the Board to grant Mr. Gaither’s request of adding three (3) additional handicapped parking spaces in front of the courthouse.

Michael Gaither stated he would like to see at least three (3) additional handicapped parking spaces in front of the courthouse along the street and challenged the Commissioners to spend a day in a wheelchair.  Upon Mr. Gaither’s request, Comm. John Meeks read into Public Record a portion of a letter stating the DOT requirements for handicap accessible parking spaces.

David Florance, Vice President of the EMS Local Union IAFF 4069, spoke to the Board regarding the hiring freeze of non-essential positions spoken of at the last Board meeting.  He questioned Chief Knowles’ decision to add 6 new Lieutenants and requested the Board direct him to spoke with the union before making any changes.

Mr. Moody stated this item is still in the negotiation phase and there have been no decisions made yet.

David J. Elliott apologized to Atty. Brown for his misunderstanding in his reading of a letter recently.  He then thanked Mr. Gaither for his support of those who are disabled.  He also commended the Sheriff’s Department for the recent drug sting arrests.

PUBLIC HEARING

Shenley Neely, Planning Director

Request to adopt Ordinance 2015-08 amending the schedule of Capital Improvement for Levy County as required annually by Florida Statute.

Ms. Neely requested the Board adopt Ordinance 2015-08 amending the schedule of Capital Improvement for Levy County as required annually by Florida Statute.  Ms. Neely then read the title of the Ordinance into public record.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone wishing to speak regarding this Ordinance.

Renate Cannon asked if the expense for implementing handicap parking access would be funded through Capital Improvements under this Ordinance.

Ms. Neely answered she was of the understanding this Ordinance would not apply to this type of improvement and Comm. John Meeks added any expense involving handicap parking access would likely come from Courthouse Improvement funds.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to adopt Ordinance 2015-08 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PLANNING

Shenley Neely, Planning Director

Request a motion to approve the re-appointment of Mr. Marlon Gayle as the Levy County Public Sector Representative to the Board of Directors for the Central Florida Community Action Agency (CFCAA) for the period October 1, 2015 through September 30, 2016.

Ms. Neely requested the Board re-appoint Marlon Gayle as the Levy County Public Sector Representative to the Board of Directors for the Central Florida Community Action Agency for the period of October 1, 2015 through September 20, 2016.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to re-appoint Marlon Gayle as the Public Sector Representative for Levy County to the Board of Directors for the Central Florida Community Action Agency as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

SHIP

Shenley Neely, Director

Request a motion to approve SHIP Annual Reports to be submitted to Florida Housing Finance Corporation.

Ms. Neely requested Board approval of the SHIP Annual Reports to be submitted to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation with the approval of the Chairman to sign the Certification for Implementation of Regulatory Reform Activities and the Certification of Report Submission.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the SHIP Annual Reports with the Chairman’s signature on forms as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

NATURE COAST BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

David Pieklik, Director

A. Presenting a brief progress report for the months of June, July and August on activities and accomplishments; ongoing projects.

Mr. Pieklik presented a progress report of the Nature Coast Business Development Council to the Board for the months of June, July and August on activities, accomplishments and ongoing projects.

Questions were asked by Toni Collins, Terry Witt and David J. Elliott.  These questions were addressed by Mr. Pieklik.

Mr. Pieklik added the next regular Board meeting of the Nature Coast Business Development Council is scheduled for 3:00 P.M. on September 10^th at the College of Central Florida in the Community Room and is open to the public.

B. On behalf of North Florida Economic Development Partnership, request an adoption of Resolution 2015-36 for Rural Development Aid.

Mr. Pieklik requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-36 for Rural Development Aid on behalf of the North Florida Economic Development Partnership.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-36 as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Joyner asked Mr. Pieklik the status of the application process for tax relief to new businesses.

Mr. Pieklik answered he is working on getting this process streamlined and has given information to Atty. Brown for review.

LEVY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Col. Mike Sheffield

Request further actions to complete the application for the Federal Fiscal Year 2015 Byrne Grant to supplement the Multi-jurisdictional Drug Task Force.  Actions required are the following:  (1) Review and approve the JAG program announcement, including Standards and Conditions; (2) Authorize the Sheriff to submit the completed application, including the standards and Conditions; (3) Sign and return the Certification Form stating that an EEOP is on file for review at the office of the Levy County Board of County Commissioners; (4) Sign and return to the BOCC consensus letter for participation in the grant.

Col. Sheffield requested on behalf of Sheriff McCallum Board approval for the Sheriff’s Department to continue with the filing process for the Federal Fiscal Year 2015 Byrne Grant to supplement the Multi-jurisdictional Drug Task Force.

Atty. Brown added today’s request is to authorize the Sheriff to proceed with completion of the application and to authorize the Chairman to sign the application when it is ready due to time restrictions involving the filing process and Board meeting dates.  This will prevent the Sheriff from coming back before the Board for the final application.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Sheriff’s Department to continue with the filing process for the Federal Fiscal Year 2015 Byrne Grant as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

COUNTY COORDINATOR

Fred Moody

A. Request approval of the Contract of Sale between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County for the purchase of 7.2 acres.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the Contract of Sale between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County for the purchase of 7.2 acres in the amount of $16,820.  The property is located off of Butler Road in Inglis.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Contract of Sale between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request approval of the Aggregate Lease Agreement between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County for 61.26 acres.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the Aggregate Lease Agreement between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County for 61.26 acres.  The Lease is for a term of ten (10) years from the effective date and may be extended for an additional ten (10) years.  The amount is $22,750.00 per year and will increase on the 5^th anniversary of the effective date and each year thereafter by 3% per year until the termination of the lease.  An initial rental payment of $6,000 is to be made within thirty (30) days of the execution of the Lease, with subsequent rental payments due on each anniversary of the effective date thereafter until the termination of the Lease.

Bruce Greenlee also spoke regarding the Aggregate Lease.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Aggregate Lease Agreement between Plum Creek Timberlands, L.P. and Levy County as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Request approval of 2016 Holidays.

Mr. Moody requested Board approval of the 2016 Holidays as listed below:

New Year’s Day                                 Friday, January 1, 2016

Martin Luther King Day                     Monday, January 18, 2016

Good Friday                                        Friday, March 25, 2016

Memorial Day                                     Monday, May 30, 2016

Independence Day                            Monday, July 4, 2016

Labor Day                                           Monday, September 5, 2016

Veteran’s Day                                    Friday, November 11, 2016

Thanksgiving                                     Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25, 2016

Christmas                                          Friday, December 23 and Monday, December 26, 2016

One Floating Personal Day (to be taken during the calendar year)

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the 2016 Holidays as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

ASSISTANT TO THE COUNTY COORDINATOR

Wilbur Dean

Request approval to purchase a Storage Container Unit for the Supervisor of Elections.

Mr. Dean requested Board approval to purchase a 40’ x 8’ storage container unit for the Supervisor of Elections.  The bids received are as follows:

Gator Storage Trailer Rental, Inc.                   $3,000

A Plus Cargo Containers, 2010                      $5,800

A Plus Cargo Containers, 2002                      $4,200

Pac Van                                                           $5,700

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the purchase of a 40’ x 8’ storage container unit for the Supervisor of Elections from Gator Storage Trailer Rental, Inc. in the amount of $3,000.  Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

LEVY COUNTY TRANSIT

Connie Conley, General Manager

Request approval of Business Associate Agreement between the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities and Levy County Board of County Commissioners for purposes of complying with requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.

Mr. Moody requested on behalf of Mrs. Conley Board approval of the Business Associate Agreement between the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the Levy County Board of County Commissioners for purposes of complying with the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) of 1996.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the Business Associate Agreement as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Mr. Moody addressed Mr. Gaither’s concerns of the handicapped accessible parking spaces stating this is a work in progress and ADA requirements will be followed for safety and liability.  Mr. Moody stated he was informed churches are exempt from ADA, which explains why the Baptist Church located on Court Street can have handicap spaces along the street.

Mr. Dean also spoke regarding ADA requirements and the challenges the area surrounding the Courthouse presents.  He stated according to the number of parking spaces available for the Courthouse, the requirement is to have four (4) handicap accessible spaces, one of which should be van accessible.  There are currently eleven (11) total handicap spaces.

PUBLIC SAFETY

David Knowles, Director

A. Request approval from the Board and the Chairman’s signature to purchase one (1) Lifepak 1000 AED with accessories and service package from Physio.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval and the Chairman’s signature to purchase one (1) Lifepak 1000 AED with accessories and service package from Physio Control in the amount of $3,817.95.  Chief Knowles explained this will replace an antiquated AED no longer able to be serviced.  Physio is the vendor used for all of the Department of Public Safety’s heart monitor equipment.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve with the Chairman’s signature the purchase of one (1) Lifepak 1000 AED with accessories and service package from Physio Control as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

B. Request approval for the Chairman to sign the “Verizon Wireless In-Building Agreement Terms and Conditions” agreement.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval for the Chairman to sign the Verizon Wireless In-Building Agreement Terms and Conditions Agreement.  This agreement will allow for better cellular signal and data coverage at the Public Safety Complex at no charge to the County.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Chairman to sign the Verizon Wireless In-Building Agreement Terms and Conditions Agreement as requested.  Second is made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

C. Request approval to purchase one (1) covered vehicle storage facility from Shed Ranch, Inc. for $3,653.00.

Chief Knowles requested Board approval to purchase one (1) 18’ x 28’ x 12’ covered vehicle storage facility for the Fanning Springs EMS Station from Shed Ranch, Inc. for $3,653.00.  The bids received are as follows:

Bronson Ace                           $4,080

Keen Portable Building          $3,985

Shed Ranch                             $3,653

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the purchase of a covered vehicle storage facility from Shed Ranch, Inc. as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Rooks asked for an update on the Fanning Springs EMS Station.

Chief Knowles responded they plan to have a unit in this station and operating by September 4^th.

NON-AGENDA ITEM

PUBLIC SAFETY

Chief Knowles requested the Board hear a non-agenda item.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to hear a non-agenda item.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Chief Knowles stated one of the ambulances was involved in a crash at the end of July totaling the unit.  Chief Knowles requested the Board approve a transfer in the amount of $75,000 from their Reserve Contingency Fund to the Capital Equipment line item to purchase a new unit.  The anticipated cost for the re-chassis is $70,687.  The additional amount requested is for unforeseen costs which may be incurred.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the request to transfer $75,000 from the EMS Reserve Contingency Fund to the EMS Capital Equipment line item as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Questions were asked by Renate Cannon, Terry Witt and Toni Collins, and David Florance.

ROAD DEPARTMENT

Bruce Greenlee, Administrative Road Superintendent

A. Request approval of the Board of consulting engineering contract between the Board of County Commissioners of Levy County, FL and Mills Engineering Company for the years 2015-2016.

Mr. Greenlee requested Board approval of the Consulting Engineering Contract between the Board of County Commissioners of Levy County and Mills Engineering Company for the years 2015-2016.  The hourly is the same as last year at $95 per hour for all services by the engineer and other services are calculated at the salary rate times 3.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Consulting Engineering Contract with Mills Engineering Company as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.  Comm. John Meeks voted NO.

B. Request approval for yearly bid items.

Mr. Greenlee requested Board approval for yearly bid items as listed below:

Asphalt                                                Central Materials

Emulsion Prime-Tar                            No Bid Received

Galvanized Culvert Pipe                     Metal Culverts

Motor Oils                                           Jack Becker Distributors

Porta Potty                                          Jones Septic

Safety Materials                                  Safety Zone/Safety Products

Sign Materials                                     Universal Signs

Sod                                                      Scherer Quality Farms, Inc.

Striping                                               Jenkins Painting, Inc.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to award the yearly bid items as presented.  Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. John Meeks Mr. Greenlee what would be done about no bids received for Emulsion Prime-Tar.

Mr. Greenlee answered they will get quotes from E. A. Mariani Asphalt, Inc. and Blacklidge Emulsions, Inc. and take the best quote.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Anne Bast Brown

Atty. Brown requested Board approval of the renewal proposal for the Abacus software as a sole source provider of software used by the Office of the County Attorney in the amount of $2,628.00.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the renewal for Abacus software as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Steve Minnis with the Suwannee River Water Management District spoke to the Board regarding the annual State of the Resource presentation.  Mr. Minnis also presented the Payment in Lieu of Taxes for 2014 in the amount of $30,401.84.

Osborn Barker, Property Appraiser announced tax notices will be mailed out on Thursday.

Renate Cannon and Michael Gaither spoke regarding the handicap parking space issue.

Alberty Reese spoke to the Board regarding volunteering at the Animal Services facility.

Sallie Ann Collins spoke to the Board informing them of a crash which occurred recently near the intersection of SR 121 and CR 326.  The intersection was recently investigated by the State upon the County’s request for the possibility of a traffic light being implemented and it was determined this would not be done.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. John Meeks reminded everyone the next Regular Board meeting is scheduled for September 8^th and there is a Tentative Budget Hearing scheduled for September 3^rd at 6:00 P.M.

Comm. John Meeks also reminded everyone school starts back for Levy County on Monday so please drive carefully.  High School football will also begin next Friday evening and Comm. John Meeks encouraged everyone to support their local teams.

Comm. John Meeks reported he along with Mr. Moody, Mr. Shipp and others from Court Administration met to discuss repair and maintenance issues of the courthouse.

Comm. John Meeks stated a letter had been received from Representative Jimmie T. Smith’s office requesting donation of a bus which has already been donated to the Landfill Department.

Comm. Joyner thanked Matt Weldon and the Mosquito Control for their efforts in controlling the mosquito population due to the recent heavy rains and flooding in the Inglis/Yankeetown area.

Mr. Weldon spoke to the Board reporting of the work they had been doing in an attempt to control the mosquitos in this area.  Mr. Weldon also reported of the drainage ditch stating it was not dug nor could it be maintained by the County as there are no Easements.  The information they were able to gather was reported to those departments which would have the authority to take action.

Comm. Joyner stated he had recently med with Ted Yoho regarding building issues within the Courthouse.

Tisha Whitehurst spoke to the Board reported she had also met with staff at Ted Yoho’s office and was given information regarding Grant’s which may be available to Levy County and she is checking into what the county could apply for.  Grants which she is checking on are those which would help fund elevator upgrades and ADA issues.

Comm. Rooks spoke regarding adoptions from Animal Services.

David Weatherford spoke to the Board from Animal Services and gave a report of animal adoptions/rescues.   He stated the Department of Animal Services works with over 145 animal rescue groups.

Lucille Reese and Albert Reese spoke regarding volunteering at Animal Services.

NON-AGENDA ITEM

ANIMAL SERVICES

David Weatherford requested the Board hear a non-agenda item concerning Animal Services.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to hear a non-agenda item.  Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Mr. Weatherford requested Board approval of a pet adoption event to be held on September 19^th at Tractor Supply in Chiefland from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

Comm. Rock Meeks made a motion to approve the pet adoption event as requested.  Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 12:15 P.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                     BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                    ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                  Chairman, John Meeks

REGULAR MEETING

LEVY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

AUGUST 4, 2015

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Levy County Commissioners was held on August 4, 2015 at 9:00 A.M. in the Levy County Board of County Commissioners meeting room with the following Commissioners present:

Chairman John Meeks

Comm. Rock Meeks

Comm. Danny Stevens

Comm. Lilly Rooks

Comm. Mike Joyner

Also present were:

Danny J. Shipp – Clerk of Court

County Attorney – Anne Bast Brown
County Coordinator – Fred Moody

Chairman John Meeks called the Meeting to order at 9:00 A.M. Comm. Rock Meeks gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

EXPENDITURES

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the following expenditures presented for payment. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

MINUTES

The minutes for the following Board meetings were presented for Board approval: June 23, 2015, July 7, 2015, and July 21, 2015.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on June 23, 2015 with corrections as stated. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on July 7, 2015 as presented. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the minutes for the Regular Board meeting held on July 21, 2015 as presented. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Yankeetown Mayor, Debra Weiss expressed concerns to the Board of recent flooding made worse in Inglis and Yankeetown by clogged culverts on C40A.

Mr. Greenlee stated the Road Department will be clearing culverts as soon as the water recedes enough identify where the problem areas are located.

PUBLIC HEARING

ROAD DEPARTMENT

Bruce Greenlee, Administrative Road Superintendent

Request adoption of Resolution 2015-25 approving the petition to vacate, abandon, and close a portion of SE 73^rd Lane, located in Fox Grove Farms Subdivision, as requested by petitioners, Earl E. and Jessie F. Sims.

Mr. Greenlee requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-25 approving the petition to vacate, abandon, and close a portion of SE 73^rd Lane, located in Fox Grove Farms Subdivision as requested by the petitioners, Earl E. and Jessie F. Sims.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone wishing to speak for or against the petition as presented. There were none.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-25 as requested. Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC HEARING

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Bill Hammond, Development Director

Request the Board approve Ms. Gail Osteen with Hardship Variance 15-04.

Swearing in of the audience was done by Atty. Brown.

Comm. John Meeks asked if any of the Commissioners had any ex-parte communication with the petitioner. [1]Comm. John Meeks stated he had ex-parte communication with several individuals regarding this petition.

Mr. Hammond requested Board approval of Hardship Variance 15-04 to allow a second dwelling on a parcel of land owned by Gail M. Osteen in order for her daughter to care for her.

Comm. John Meeks asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak for or against the petition as presented.

Jeff Hardee spoke to the Board explaining the reason for the petition for a Hardship Variance for Ms. Osteen.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Hardship Variance 15-04 as requested. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

LEVY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Sheriff, Robert B. McCallum

Request the Board to serve as the coordinating unit of government in the FDLE Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant by (1) signing the Certificate of Participation (2) and in the preparation of the application for grant funds by designating Sheriff Bobby McCallum to coordinate the preparation of the application and (3) by approving upon award the use of Grant Funds, $34,540.00 to supplement the multi-jurisdictional Drug Task Force of Levy County.

Comm. John Meeks offered congratulations to Sheriff McCallum and staff for their work to get the 66 recent drug related arrests.

Sheriff McCallum stated the Sheriff’s Department had recently been working on what had been named operation “Melting Pot” and with assistance from neighboring law enforcement agencies, yielded 66 drug related arrests in Levy County.

Sheriff McCallum requested the Board to serve as the coordinating unit of government in the FDLE Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant by signing the Certificate of Participation and designation of himself to coordinate the preparation of the application, and by approving, award the use of Grant funds in the amount of $34,500 to supplement the multijurisdictional Drug Task Force of Levy County.

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the request by Sheriff McCallum regarding the Certificate of Participation for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

John MacDonald, Director

Request approval of the Memorandum of Understanding for Expenditure of Recipient Funding from the Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program (IECGP) funds.

Mr. MacDonald requested Board approval of the Memorandum of Understanding for Expenditure of Recipient Funding from the Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program (IECGP) funds.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the Memorandum of Understanding as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Mr. MacDonald gave an update to the Board of the flooding situation in parts of the County due to the recent heavy rainfall.

LEVY COUNTY TRANSIT

Connie Conley, General Manager

A.      Request Board approval of Resolution 2015-35, authorizing the filing of the Shirley Conroy Rural Capital Assistance Program Grant (RCAP Grant).

Mrs. Conley requested Board approval of Resolution 2015-35, authorizing the filing of the Shirley Conroy Rural Capital Assistance Program Grant application with the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged in the amount of $73,859 for the purchase of a bus.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve Resolution 2015-35 as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

B.     Request Board approval for the Service Agreement to provide transportation service to Creekside Christian School for the upcoming school year, 2015/2016.

Mrs. Conley requested Board approval of the Service Agreement to provide transportation service to Creekside Christian School for the upcoming school year, 2015/2016.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the Service Agreement with Creekside Christian School as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Michael Gaither spoke to the Board regarding the placement of curbside handicap parking spaces in front of the courthouse.

Mrs. Gaither requested a report be made available from the Animal Services Department of how many cats and dogs are being saved each month.

Comm. Rooks stated she will work with the Animal Services Department to make this report available.

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS

Comm. Joyner stated he is glad to be back after dealing with complications due to a recent illness.

Comm. Rooks spoke of her recent experience at the Williston Hospital. It was a positive experience and she was impressed with how the staff took care of her and very pleased with the facility.

Comm. Rock Meeks announced there will be an event coming up at the Williston Middle School where school supplies will be given to students. The event will be Saturday, August 8^th at 3:00 P.M.

There is also an event planned in Inglis from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. to give out school supplies Saturday.

Sheriff McCallum stated there is a school supply give away planned for this Saturday as well at the Methodist Church in Chiefland.

Comm. John Meeks encouraged those with school age children to check for community information for other school supply give away events.

Comm. Rock Meeks asked for clarification of the recent memo sent out by Mr. Moody regarding a hiring freeze. Comm. Rock Meeks requested if a position is left open by an employee leaving the department come before the Board for approval to hire someone to replace the position. This does not include hiring of Transit and EMS employees.

Comm. John Meeks reported he and Mr. Dean attended a meeting with Duke Energy regarding future plans of the power plant in Crystal River.

Comm. John Meeks stated he will be attending a committee meeting teleconference tomorrow at 2:00 P.M. of the Agriculture Growth Management Environment which now includes Transportation.

Florida Representative Charlie Stone was in attendance of the meeting and spoke to the Board giving a brief timeline of the House of Representatives Legislative Session stating the State’s budget had been adopted. Representative Stone stated the re-drawing of Congressional District lines will begin soon and in November the re-drawing of State Senate maps will begin.

Questions were asked by Renate Cannon and asked by Representative Stone.

The meeting recessed at 10:04 A.M.

The meeting reconvened at 10:35 A.M.

BUDGET WORKSHOP

Bronson Fire Department

Chief Russell stated the request for the Bronson Fire Department is:

$ 95,481 Contracted amount

$   9,548 10% additional increase

$   9,696 Brush Gear

$114,725 Total Request

Chief Russell stated they will be applying for grants to help fund the department.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to approve the contracted amount for the Bronson Fire Department of $95,481 plus $9,696 for brush gear for a total of $105,177. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

The additional amount of $9,696 will be by P.O.’s through the Finance Department.

Cedar Key Fire Department

Chief Robertson stated the request for the Cedar Key Fire Department is:

$ 66,219 Contracted amount

$   5,000 Additional amount

$ 71,219 Total Request

Comm. Rooks made a motion to approve the contracted amount for the Cedar Key Fire Department of $66,219 plus the additional amount of $5,000 as requested for a total of $71,219. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Chiefland Fire Department

Chief Harris stated the request for the Chiefland Fire Department is:

$204,754 Contracted amount

$ 24,060 Additional amount for purchase of new truck

$228,814 Total Request

Chief Harris stated eight (8) sets of bunker gear in the amount of $15,200 will need to be purchased this year.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the contracted amount for the Chiefland Fire Department of $204,754 plus $15,200 for 8 sets of bunker gear for a total of $219,954. Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

The additional amount of $15,200 will be by P.O.’s through the Finance Department.

Inglis Fire Department

Chief MacDonald stated the request for the Inglis Fire Department is:

$48,876 Contracted amount

$20,000 Request for covering South Levy

$68,876 Total Request

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the contracted amount for the Inglis Fire Department of $48,876 plus $20,000 for South Levy coverage for a total of $68,876. Second was made by Comm. Rock Meeks and the MOTION CARRIES.

The Commissioners agreed there would be no contribution to the Rainbow Lakes Estates Fire Department.

Williston Fire Department

Chief Stegall stated the request for the Williston Fire Department is:

$204,754 Contracted amount

$ 23,604 Additional increase

$228,358 Total Request

Comm. Joyner made a motion to approve the contracted amount for the Williston Fire Department of $204,754 plus an increase of $23,604 and expansion of the coverage area as requested. Second was made by Comm. Rooks and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to hear a non-agenda item regarding the Fire Department District lines. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

After discussion, the Commissioners agreed by consensus to instruct Chief Knowles to explore options for Fire Department funding and taking a look at the district lines.

Terry Witt asked what the total amount of carry-forward money for the Fire Departments?

Sheila Rees answered the total carry-forward amount for the Fire Departments is $600,000.

Chief Russell questioned why the Board did not approve the additional 10% for the Bronson Fire Department.

The Commissioners explained $9,696 was approved for brush gear instead of the 10% total budget increase.

Millage Rate

Comm. Stevens made a motion to hear a non-agenda item concerning setting the millage rate. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Mrs. Rees stated the millage rate needs to be set today. She stated the current millage rate which had been tentatively set and used to calculate the budget is 8.2741. The current rolled-back rate is 8.1662.

Comm. Stevens made a motion to hear a non-agenda item concerning setting the millage rate. Second was made by Comm. Joyner and the MOTION CARRIES.

Comm. John Meeks asked if anyone in the audience would like to speak concerning the millage rate.

Those in the audience who spoke were: Terry Witt and Dana Sheffield.

Comm. Joyner made a motion to set the millage rate at 8.2741 and the rolled-back rate at 8.1662. Second was made by Comm. Stevens and the MOTION CARRIES.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION, THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11:56 A.M.

ATTEST:                                                                                    BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEVY COUNTY, FL

________________________________________                   ________________________________________

Clerk of Court, Danny J. Shipp                                                 Chairman, John Meeks

[1] Comm. John Meeks, ex parte communication