AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HELD IN AND FOR GADSDEN COUNTY, FLORIDA ON NOVEMBER 1, 2011 AT 6:00P.M., THE FOLLOWING PROCEEDINGS WERE HAD, VIZ.

Sherrie Taylor, Chair, District 5

Gene Morgan, Vice-Chair, District 3

Eugene Lamb, District 1

Doug Croley, District 2

Brenda Holt, District 4

Deborah Minnis, County Attorney

Arthur Lawson, Interim County Administrator

Beryl Wood, Deputy Clerk

Muriel Straughn, Deputy Clerk

INVOCATION , PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND ROLL CALL
Chair Taylor called the meeting to order then opened with a prayer and the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag. Deputy Clerk, Muriel Straughn called the Roll and recorded the attendance as noted above.
AMENDMENTS AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA UPON MOTION BY COMMISSIONER HOLT AND SECOND BY COMMISSIONER LAMB, THE BOARD VOTED, 5 – 0, BY VOICE VOTE, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED ABOVE. Addition: Emily Rowan added to record concerning Library Member that passed Holt, Lamb 5-0 Emily Rowan addressed the Board concerning proclamation in honor of Emily Hart vibrate member of Chattahoochee Community her main focus were children and reading. She then read the Resolution into record and that a copy be given to her family. She thanked the Board for honoring her. Commissioner Morgan thanked Mrs. Rowan for her efforts in honoring Mrs. Hart. He stated that all of her children would receive a copy of the Resolution along with a copy to be placed in the Chattahoochee Library.
AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS AND APPEARANCES
1.	Eugene Lamb, Jr. Park at Richbay Presentation of Funds
	(Elizabeth Jenkins and Dale Riggins, Eugene Lamb, Jr. Park Fundraisers) Elizabeth Jenkins Chair of Community and Fundraising chair Dale Riggins they appeared before the Board to make presentation and they asked Mr. Charles Chapman to come forward. Total raised $14,200.00 Mr. Chapman said that playground equipment should be
2.	Gadsden County Health Department - Closing the Gap Grant Project (Mother Care Network, Inc.)
	(Maximo Martinez, Gadsden Community Health Council, Inc. Executive Director) Mr. Martinez addressed the Board regarding the Closing the Gap Grant Project, he gave a brief description of the project and its benefits. He said that the purpose of the Closing the GAP project is to improve healthcare access to the minority residents of Gadsden County by creating an atmosphere in which such access is more culturally-sensitive, compassionate and affordable. This purpose will be achieved through implementation of a program employing a community of residents trained in the basic knowledge of how to access the healthcare in Gadsden County. These community-based healthcare advisors are called” Gadsden Community Health ambassadors” (GCHA). The strength of this program is predicated on the intimate knowledge that a Gadsden Community Health Ambassador would have knowledge to pre-existing areas of need in their respective communities. In small rural communities like Gadsden County, physicians and healthcare workers are typically seen as “outsiders”. A traditional professional healthcare worker may never be made aware of the informal social networks, as a consequence of their historical social ties to their community. He went on to identify the process of hiring Gadsden Community Health Ambassadors (GCHA). He said that there would be forums to inform the community of the need to identify Gadsden residents who could be trained to become Gadsden Community Heath Ambassadors and a total of 72 advisors would be selected. He also discussed the Orientation Process and Assessment Plan. The Ambassadors Compensation would be a rate of $10 per hour for 40 weeks; $100.00 per week X 40 = $4,000.00 per ambassador, based on a 10 hour work week. The Reducing Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities "Closing the Gap" grant program, section 381.7351, Florida Statutes, was signed into law on June 8, 2000.  These grants are utilized to stimulate the development of community and neighborhood-based organizations to improve health outcomes of racial and ethnic populations and promote disease prevention activities.   Projects funded through the Closing the Gap grant program help stimulate broad-based participation and the support of both public and private entities by:  · Fostering partnerships between local governments, community groups and private sector health care organizations; · Helping communities address their most pressing health needs through targeted health screenings, education and awareness programs; · Helping communities better understand the nature of health disparities among ethnic and racial groups; and · Allowing state epidemiologists to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions so that identified "best practices" can be shared with other high-risk Florida communities. Primary benefits to the state form the Closing the Gap Act include: · Meaningful improvements in the lives of Floridians who now suffer disproportionately from disease and disability; and · Development of tools and strategies that will enable Florida to eliminate these disparities. The "Closing the Gap" grant program targets seven priority health areas: · Cancer, · Cardiovascular disease, · Diabetes, · Adult and Child immunizations, · HIV/AIDS, · Maternal and infant mortality and · Oral health care. Cynthia Coxen and Maximo Martinez addressed the Board. Cynthia Coxen 604 east Havana, FL she thanked Board for allowing her to present the Closing The Gap Project. The project starts October 1 through. Chair Taylor commended Mrs. Coxen and Mr. Martinez for their
CLERK OF COURTS
3.	Presentation of County Finance and County Clerk Issues
	(Nicholas Thomas, Clerk of Courts)
CONSENT Holt/ Lamb5-0
4.	Approval of Minutes – September 6, 2011 – Regular Meeting August 16, 2011 – Regular Meeting July 19, 2011 – Regular Meeting
5.	Ratification of Approval to Pay County Bills
6.	Approval of Budget Amendment Numbers 120002 and 120003 Moving $9,249 and $25,000 from Reserve for Contingency Account to the Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Development Account – Pulled(can a budget amendment appear on consent agenda) Atty Mennis Lamb/ Holt 5-0
7.	Approval of Commissioner Lamb’s and Commissioner Holt’s Travel to the Florida Association of Counties’ (2011-12) Legislative Conference (Commissioner Eugene Lamb and Commissioner Brenda Holt)
ITEMS PULLED FOR DISCUSSION
CITIZENS REQUESTING TO BE HEARD ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS (3 MINUTE LIMIT) Lamar Rudd –Ashton Court - between Quincy And Havana- His concerns was that people have started gathering in area close to him on soccer field. He said that he can’t rest. Chair Taylor directed him to get with Mr. Lawson with his concerns.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
8.	Public Hearing – Approval of Close –out Budget Amendment for FY 2011 (Connie McLendon, Finance Director) Resolution No. 2011-040 amending the budget as reflected on Amendment# 110127 through 110138. This is the annual close-out entries as permitted by Florida Statutes to close out Fiscal Year 2011. Public Comment Chair Taylor stated this is a public hearing and she invited the public to come forward if wanted. Motion: Holt /Lamb 5-0
9.	Public Hearing – Amendment of Section 74-1 of the Gadsden County Code of Ordinances (Deborah Minnis, County Attorney) Mrs. Minnis, County Attorney stated that Amendment of section 74-1 of the Gadsden county Code of Ordinances to allow Discretionary Sales Surtax funds enacted pursuant to F.S. section 212.055(3) to be used to pay for maintenance of the existing jail facility, the construction and maintenance of bridges in addition to the other uses already identified in the ordinance. She gave a brief narrative that at the July 19, 2011 meeting, the Commission, at the request of the City of Gretna, with the support of the Sheriff, authorized the transfers of $205,000.00 from fund 301(a line item to be used for improvements and repairs to the jail) to a line time for the benefit of the city of Gretna. Pursuant to the vote of the Commission, the $205,000.00 would be made available to the city of Gretna to assist in the cost of installing a wastewater line along State Road 12. To replace the revenue in fund 301, the Commission voted to consider amending Section 74-1 of the Gadsden County Code of Ordinances to allow for the use of Discretionary Sales Surtax money to allow it to be used for the maintenance of the jail facility. In addition, the proposed amendment will allow the funds to be used for the construction of a pod or pods at the existing jail facility and for maintenance of bridges in addition to the uses already identified in the ordinance. Amendment of the ordinance will require an extraordinary vote of the Commission. Public Comment Motion : Croley/Holt 5-0 Motion carried
10.	Public Hearing – Second Hearing for Gadsden County to apply for Florida Department of Community Affairs 2011 CDBG Economic Development Grant (Anthony Matheny, Planning And Community Development Director) Mr. Lawson and Mr. Ford addressed the Board regarding the Second of Two Public Hearings Required for Gadsden County to apply for Florida Department of Community Affairs 2011 CDBG Economic Development Grant. He said that Mr. Auburn Ford, on behalf of Mr. Charlie Harris, will conduct the second of two Public Hearings required for Gadsden County to submit a grant application to the Florida Department of Community Affairs (FDCA), under the CDBG Program to fund infrastructure improvements for Gussie’s Garden Inn Assisted Living Care Facility. This is Gadsden County’s second application for these grant funds. The County’s 2010 application was denied due to the submittal of an incomplete application. The first Public Hearing was held on October 04, 2011. The conceptual plan for Gussie’s Garden Inn ACLF was approved by the Gadsden County BOCC on March 1, 2005. Mr. Harris owner of Sirrah Mini Storage allocated about a quarter of a mile west of the City of Quincy, city limits on U.S 90. He is converting the building into an Assisted Living Facility which will house for forty-eight (48) clients and create eleven (11) low-moderate income jobs. The site is now serviced by septic. The facility will be required to hook to City of Quincy sewage. This connection requirement will cause an undue financial hardship o Mr. Harris and therefore he is requesting County staff to pursue a CBDG Economic Development Grant to provide the infrastructure to his business. This infrastructure improvement may also benefit future development in the area. He said that if funded, the infrastructure improvement will be paid 100% from grant funds, There will be staff time devoted to the grant application process, which may involve the County securing a consultant to apply for the grant. Public Comment: Motion: Lamb/Croley 5-0 to approve Commissioner Holt said we are approving grant only. Commissioner Morgan made known that it has no fiscal impact to the County. Mr. Ford asked for permission for Chair Taylor to sign off on signature letter of items, she asked Atty. Minnis. Motion : Approval of Signatures Holt/Lamb 5-0
GENERAL BUSINESS
11.	Request to Authorize a Countywide Referendum on Allowing Slot Machines at the Creek Entertainment Gretna Horse Track Facility (James Dorris, Chief Executive Officer, PCI Gaming Authority) Mr. Lawson came before the Board with a request to authorize a Countywide Referendum on allowing Slot Machines at the Creek Entertainment Gretna Horse Track Facility. He said that this item seeks Board approval of a county-wide voter ballot referendum to authorize the use of slot machines at Creek Entertainment Gretna’s pari-mutuel horse track. Mr. Keith Martin, Tribal Council Member, PCI Chairman, addressed the Board and stated that North Florida is likely to experience phenomenal growth in the coming years, as it remains Florida’s only largely untapped, unspoiled region. With the construction of the Creek Entertainment Gretna Horse Track Facility, Gadsden County will be able to take advantage of such growth and define itself as a gateway to the region, becoming a leader among small rural counties in meeting the demand for entertainment amenities and recreational opportunities in the area. The facility will open in December 2011, offering horse racing along with recreational gaming activities. The project will offer at least 150 full-time jobs beginning in December 2011.Commercial venture and they will pay any taxes. He also Mr. Mark Dunbar and he also introduced other members that were with him. He discussed James Dorris, Chief Executive Officer, PCI Gaming Authority addressed the Board and explained why they chose this location. He discussed the 20 million investments by the tribe. He said that are about to start hiring process. He discussed the jobs (168) and salaries. He said that he was pleased to be a part of bringing that to Gadsden County. He also discussed Ad Valorem Tax – He said he thinks plan is a 5year build-out. Should referendum pass that would like to build out such as Hotels and Restaurants. He discussed the possibility of Gretna Civic Center & Agricultural Arena. Mr. Dorris stated that withEstimate -1.8 Million in Ad Valorem Taxes to the County. December 17 –Opening Date Mr. Lawson stated the authorization would allow a Countywide Referendum on Allowing Slot Machines at the Creek Entertainment Gretna Horse Track Facility and authorize the Gadsden Supervisor Elections to place the question the January 31, 2012 Republican Presidential Preference Ballot. He said the ballot question would read: “Shall slot machines be approved for use at the pari-mutual horse track in Gretna?” Public Comment · Mayor Clarence Jackson, City of Gretna , 150 First Street Gretna, FL- he recognized Commissioner. He said they support project and would welcome them to their city. · Jim Richard Staff, City of Atmore ,Mayor Pro-Tem,110 McKenzie Dr. Atmore, AL 36502– He commended the Poarch Creek Indians and stated that they were viable in their County. Postive Impact · Grover Smith, Escambia County, AL Sheriff, P O Box 772 Brewton, AL –Poarch Creek Indians – He said that they gave County School System 1.6 million. He said that he came to the Poarch Creek Indians many times and they have always helped. He said that Crime is where people are. He said that they run the business careful and they are very present in Community. · Keith Martin, Creek Entertainment, 359 Ore Lane Atmore, AL – · Jay Dorris, Creek Entertainment , 303 Poarch Road, Atmore, AL 36502- · Wesley Cox, 637 Cox Lane Quincy, FL 32351- Greeted Commissioners-stated he was lifelong resident of Gadsden County. He said they he is working with Creek Facility with Horse destination. He said growth means jobs. He asked that the Referendum be placed on ballot · Sam Palmer, 1225 Berry Lane Quincy, FL 32351-He said that he was undecided, but after hearing them speak he is know in favor of Referendum. · Dr. Anthony Viegbese, 989 Ames Barineau Rd, Havana, Fl 32333 – Spoke in support of Referendum. He spoke on the economic impact; it has ripple effect on Economy. · Bobby Milton, outside of Greensboro - Spoke in support. Spoke in changes from Quarter to Barrel. · Henry Corry – Corry Cabinets in Havana, He spoke in support · Randolph Thomas, Jr. - 437 S Cleveland Street, All out Masonry - He spoke in support Chair Taylor stopped and recognized Former Senator Al Lawson and School Member Eric Hinson. Discussion occurred among Board. Commissioner Croley – Thanked Mr. Martin and Poarch Creek Indians for their investments. He thanked Mayor Jackson and his staff for all their hard work. I discussed with Gene McGee Steve Fish, Herb Cheneane, Antonio Jefferson possibilities of Facility. He said that there is a difference of opinion what is considered quarter horse racing. He brought attention about Referendum. He said he spoke with Supervisor of Elections out all voters turnout was 25 to 30% compared to general election 75 to 85%. To put this on ballot it would cost around $65,000.00. He said that his concern was that it should be done when the majority of the voters with vote. Chair Taylor asked whether are not you want to place item on agenda when it will not be a full election. Mr. Dorris, said that if he can get it before January, Let folks have opportunity while it will count. Commissioner Croley asked Infrastructure improvement Mr. Dorris replied Commissioner Morgan he also disclosed that he too had spoke with those mention concerning the Facility. He commended the City of Gretna. He said that his concern was how are we going to maintain rural integrity of the County. Supports the Referendum. He said he is not in support of slot machines coming to Gadsden County. Has opportunity to be great for Gadsden County. He said he would like this to be quality project for Gadsden County. Antonio Jefferson, City Manager – He said that the product you have seen is great quality, great company that believe in Community. He said that there a religious based. He said they have done their due diligence. It would be great for Gadsden County. Commissioner Lamb, - Spoke in support, would like the people to vote. Commissioner Holt – This is in my district, I speak in support, “There is no greater right than the American Vote. She spoke of lost jobs, they need jobs in this County”. She said it should be put before citizens Chair Taylor commented that she had met with all major players in this Facility and she would like to disclose that information. She discussed with Supervisor of Election educating people for the vote. It gives voters chance to make intelligent decision. In favor of Referendum going on Agenda in January. She asked Commissioner to make Motion :Holt/Lamb 5-0 Commissioner Croley(question) – issues is when it goes on ballot. If it is put in January, what benefit is it to Legislature Mark Dunbar – It is intention to move forward and get license. If Legislative decides to act they would be taking property rights. He said that he would propose that you move, so legislature not be able to take it. Commissioner Morgan – asked Mr. Dunbar will you also open track racing Wtit the plan it will include all. He asked that it be read into record wording: Commissioner Lamb – Encourage voters to come out Commissioner Holt – Please come out an vote. Mr. Martin Thanked all for hearing them and placing on ballot in January.
12.	Discussion and Action on Authorization to Place a Referendum on the January Ballot to Authorize the Board of County Commissioners to Grant Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemptions (Material to be Provided) (Deborah Minnis, County Attorney) Mr. Lawson discussed Authorization to Place a Referendum on the January Ballot. Mrs. Minnis , County Attorney said the Referendum would be a 10 year period and it would apply to any . Not a Referendum just for National Solar. She stated that this was a Referendum has had in past, it expired. Chair Taylor Commissioner Holt – Could their be preference to have Gadsden County Jobs. Commissioner Lamb – In favor of placing back on book. Commissioner Morgan – In support, he said that since, there is no timeline- why not at general election is proper time to do it – no timeline constraints. David Gardner – referenced letter from National Solar concerns because of timeline. Commissioner Morgan would it be better served at later date. Mr. Gardner – it would require education (November) Chair Taylor – as Atty stated, it’s a safe mode, economic development only occurs so often, let’s be prepared. Spoke in support, Not saying it’s just for National Solar. Public Comment Marion Lasley, 5 Deonte Court,- She spoke on Tax Abatement. How Long? How does it work. If it goes on January ballot what would be the language. Does it state how many jobs would be created. Is criteria up to the Board. Atty Minnis read language into record. Citizens could voice their opinion at Public Hearing Chair Taylor concerned what is legal standing- if we push down to later date, that where still able to meet requirements in agreement. Atty Minnis, we would need to talk to National Solar to see what they are trying to achieve with this project. It does not stop National Solar. Commissioner Holt stated that you should look closely at abatements. It’s a proposed agreement from National Solar. Chair Taylor if it is needed then we have it, It is good growth development. Commissioner Morgan pay attention to two things in support of General Election. Motion: Lamb/ Taylor – In support of Referendum in January 3-2 Croley /Morgan opposed Question – Holt why does National Solar not want it on ballot. Commissioner Croley suggested workshop – not in favor of January ballot. Chair Taylor - Has to be approved by Nov. 12 to be placed on January ballot
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR – No issues
13.	Update on Board Requests (Arthur Lawson, Interim County Administrator)
COUNTY ATTORNEY – No issues
14.	Update on Various Legal Issues (Deborah Minnis, County Attorney)
DISCUSSION ITEMS BY COMMISSIONERS
15.	· Commissioner Lamb, District 1- No Items · Commissioner Croley, District 2 – Report and Discussion Public Issues and Concerns pertaining to Commission District Two and Gadsden County –disclosed publicly County Document – Had meeting with county attorney, Richard Durham former Atty General. Oct. 21, 2011 – please review (read letter into record) from Johnnie Williams, former County Manager · Commissioner Holt, District 4 – County Concerns · Commissioner Morgan, Vice Chairman, District 3 – Financial Commitment for defending Florida State Hospital – Increase financial aide (support) for Florida State Hospital · Motion for discussion to Morgan/ Croley - Motion failed 2-2 Taylor/ Lamb Opposed · Commissioner Taylor, Chairperson, District 5 – Discussion of Smoke Detectors · City of Quincy commented on Tanyard Creek, Veteran Day Celebration. · Set date for National Solar Workshop Meeting Date – wait until next meeting, bring back in draft form. We will move quickly.
MOTION TO ADJOURN @ 8:29pm
RECEIPT AND FILE
NOVEMBER MEETING (S) · November 15, 2011, Regular Meeting, 9:00 a.m.