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BOCC Tentative Budget Hearing September 3, 2015

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

 

BOCC Regular Meeting August 18, 2015

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.

 

CHECK NUMBER 120695-120843
FUND         AMOUNT
GENERAL REVENUE 423,915.43
ROAD 73,042.21
PAL LIBRARY 8,163.93
TRANSPORTATION 21,595.57
COURT FACILITIES 15.00
EMS 40,785.75
FIRE 32,739.72
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT 4,902.44
UTILITIES 1,764.77
ADD COURT COSTS 637.62
DEBT SERVICE 533,423.75
LANDFILL 12,616.95
TOTAL   $ 1,153,603.14

 

 

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 10th 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 5th 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 4th.

 

 

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 8th and there is a Tentative Budget Hearing scheduled for September 3rd 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 19th 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

 

BOCC Regular Meeting August 4, 2015

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.

 

CHECK NUMBER 120565-120694
FUND        AMOUNT
GENERAL REVENUE 1,115,232.77
ROAD 35,608.37
SHIP 17,873.62
PAL LIBRARY 2,153.42
TRANSPORTATION 1,190.61
911 26,807.01
COURT FACILITIES 52.00
EMS 18,590.45
FIRE 102,757.32
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT 5,562.86
UTILITIES 1,377.54
ADD COURT COSTS 1,943.52
LANDFILL 1,497.11
TOTAL $ 1,330,646.60

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 73rd 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 73rd 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 8th 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