Board of County Commissioners

Gadsden County, Florida

 

AGENDA & MEETING NOTES

 

Regular Public Meeting

April 3, 2012

6:00 p.m.

 

Present:               Sherrie Taylor, Chair, District 5

                                Gene Morgan, Vice-Chair, District 3

                                Eugene Lamb, District 1

                                Doug Croley, District 2

                                Brenda Holt, District 4

                                Nicholas Thomas, Clerk of Courts

                                Deborah Minnis, County Attorney

                                Arthur Lawson, Interim County Administrator

 

Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call

 

Chair Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. then led in an invocation and the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag.  She then called for all cell phones to be silenced and requested all speakers to file a “Speakers Request Form” with the clerk.

 

The roll was called by Deputy Clerk, Beryl Wood and attendance was recorded as noted above.

                 

   Amendments and Approval of Agenda Croley/ Morgan 5-0

 

Chair Taylor instructed Clerk to change her vote to no concerning the work done at the Tax Collector’s Office concerning the cabinets, which were voted upon at the last meeting, 3/20/2012 –BCC Meeting.  She added she would bring it up official under her items.

 

Attorney Minnis appropriate just to change vote on particular item.

 

Add Item:

Hardship Variances –

Atty. Minnis – has it gone before P&Z?

Mr. Lawson – yes it has, but the claimant wasn’t allowed to.

Chair Taylor – It should be agenda. Allow 3 minutes under Public Comment and you can place under your agenda.

Awards, Presentations and Appearances

 

Clerk of Courts  

               

1.            Cash-In-Bank Report – Presented Report- Snapshot of Cash Position.

                (Nicholas Thomas, Clerk of the Courts)

 

Chair Taylor questioned the negative signs.

 

Clerk Thomas commented all, but one are reimbursement grants. 

 

Commissioner Morgan inquired about the Audit for 2011.

 

Clerk Thomas said we have preliminary draft and they will schedule meeting in the next couple of weeks before the next BCC meeting and there were no major issues.

 

2.            Presentation of County Finance and County Clerk Issues

                (Nicholas Thomas, Clerk of the Courts)

 

                No other issues were reported.

 

Consent Croley/Morgan (pulled item 9) 5-0

               

3.            Approval of Minutes – February 21, 2012 – Regular Meeting

                                                                                                                                                 

4.            Ratification of Approval to Pay County Bills

 

5.            Signature for Corrected HGAC Inter-local Contract for Cooperative Purchasing

                (Tommy Baker, EMS Director)

               

                Statement of Issue:

                This item seeks Board approval for the Chairperson to sign the corrected Inter-local      Contract for Cooperative Purchasing with HGAC.

 

                Background:

                This contract was approved at the February 21, 2012 County Commission meeting.  The               original agreement included the name Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners    – Gadsden EMS. When the original was received by HGAC, they advised that the      agreement must be in the name of Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners                 only.  The purpose of this agenda items is to correct this error and insure that a properly            signed corrected original document is made part of the official record.  The date of          approval listed on the corrected copy is February 21, 2012, the original date of approval.

 

6.            Approval to Write-Off of EMS Accounts               

                (Tommy Baker, EMS Director)

 

                Statement of Issue:

                The County Auditor recommends each year that bad debit accounts are submitted for                 write –off in order to clear our books on EMS accounts, and to assure that the billing           office is working on current accounts that are collectable.

 

                Background:

                The attached write-off totaling $513,392.02 includes bad address, private pay with no insurance, patients with a balance after their insurance has paid, and deceased with no    estate.  The remainder of the write-off includes uncollectible accounts where collection              costs would exceed the amount of recovery.  The County Auditor recommends each          year these accounts are submitted for write-off in order to clear our EMS books. This   will ensure our billing office is working on currents accounts that are collectable.  In             compliance with HIPAA requirements, account records are on file for inspection in the               EMS Billing Office with only the account number and account balance listed.

 

7.            Approval of Task Order Number 2012-095 Authorizing Preble-Rish Engineering to           Perform Engineering Services for the High Bluff Florida Boating Improvement Project

                (Charles Chapman, Public Works Director/Robert Presnell, Administrative Coordinator)

 

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This item seeks Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approval of   Task Order NO. 2012-095 authorizing Preble-Rish Engineering as the County Engineer to                perform engineering services for improvements at High Bluff Landing.

 

                Background:

                On November 2, 2010 the Board approved Resolution No. 2010-045 and authorized staff             to seek funding through the boating improvement program to renovate the existing     boat ramp and facilities at High Bluff Landing on Lake Talquin.  Staff received the              proposed Grant Agreement in November 2011.  The proposed Engineering services are        required to survey, design and permit the proposed parking area and drainage                improvements.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                The $7, 882.80 fee for the engineering services to complete this project will be funded               by the Florida Boating Improvement Grant (77.87%) and the County (22.17).

 

8.            Approval of Lease Agreement with BFN Operations LLC., for the Friendship Park             Property (Charles Chapman, Public Works Director/Robert Presnell, Administrative           Coordinator)

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks Board approval to enter into a lease agreement between           Gadsden County and BFN Operation LLC., for the current location of Friendship Park.        Staff also requests approval for the Chairperson to sign the Lease Agreement.

 

                Background:

                On October 6, 1983, Gadsden County entered into a 25 year Lease Agreement with        Culbro Corporation for two acres of land to build a park in the Friendship Community.         The Lease was for a 25 year period and expired on October 6, 2008.   In 2011, staff    started negotiations with the new owners to enter into a new agreement for the           existing park property for another 25 years.

 

                Fiscal Impacts:

                None

 

9.            Approval of Gadsden County Adopt a Road Program (Charles Chapman, Public Works   Director) Item Pulled by Commissioner Morgan for discussion.   Motion:       Morgan/Croley/5-0                               PULLED FOR DISCUSSION

 

 

Commissioner Morgan asked what overall costs are and do we have organizations that are willing to participate.

 

Mr. Lawson stated it wouldn’t cost much more than what has been indicated.  He said it depends on the amount of groups that participate.

 

Commissioner Croley asked is this what the State does.

 

Mr. Lawson stated it is patterned by the FDOT.

 

Commissioner Holt stated insurance problems, liabilities, children getting parents’ permission. No problem moving forward.

 

Chair Taylor stated for a point of clarity this will be organizations.

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks Board approval to establish a new Adopt a Road (AAR) Program.

 

               

                Background:

                On January 17, 2012, the Board requested staff to develop and bring back and Adopt a                 Road program for consideration.

 

                Analysis:

                Staff has developed the Gadsden County Adopt a Road program utilizing Florida             Department of Transportation guidelines for the Adopt a Highway program.  A copy of                                the Adopt a Road service agreement, program guidelines, safety practices, and reporting              forms are included as Attachment A.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                Full analysis is unavailable at this time; no current participants are on file.  Sample        expenses:

 

                Road Sign, Post and Install:         $300.00 each (one sign per road)

                Safety Vests:                                     $10.00 each/$120.00 per dozen

                Litter Grabbers:                                $35.00 each/$420.00 per dozen

 

                Total program estimate to start up with one AAR group: $840.00-$1,000.00

 

Items Pulled for Discussion

 

Item 9 was pulled as noted above.

 

Citizens Requesting to be Heard on Non-Agenda Items (3 minute limit)  

Ø  Michael Sutch,  327 Fields Rd, Havana, FL – Requesting lot 12 of Westwood Farms be split or divided in half. In order to accommodate his son who needs additional assistance from him for independent living.

 

Chair Taylor instructed Mr. Rogers to set appointment with the Administrator and he will try to handle between yourself and staff.  If it can’t be handled then it would come back before the Board if necessary.

 

Ø  James Rogers, 7092 Juniper Creek Rd, Quincy, FL – Representing the Ingram Group, LLC- Permit cost for Weatherization, highest for surrounding counties. Waive cost for weatherization fees.  He suggested a committee that would involve Construction Industry.

 

Chair Taylor commented the fees are under review.  She advised him to meet with staff, County Administrator about his request before week’s end.

 

Commissioner Croley cautioned Chair Taylor about remarks, about communication held with public.

 

Chair Taylor restated process.

 

Ø  Christina Cannon, 649 S. Shelfer Street, Quincy, FL - Housing Issue – She commented she purchased an acre land and she would like to build home.  She asked for variances.

 

Commissioner Holt she is in made district- She said it’s a County Ordinance that says she can’t have home placed on 1 acre of land.  She noted Health Department has no problem.   She commented it was very time-sensitive.

 

Commissioner Croley – time sensitive, mounted system where is it the Ordinance.

Mr. Matheny - Said it is in Ordinance and it requires 3 acres.

 

Chair Taylor because it’s a time sensitive issue, we will give clear direction and we will stretch for discussion.

 

Mr. Matheny – It’s a tuff situation, property was sub-divided. She needs mounted system.  I have sent Administrator, Environmental Person and then meet and see if this is something we can make exception on.

 

Chair Taylor stated Mr. Matheny is doing Yeoman’s job and keep dialogue up to reach resolution.

 

Public Hearings

 

10.          Public Hearing - Approval of Resolution Number 2012-005 and Budget Amendments to                the FY11/12 Budget to Redistribute Fund 130 Discretionary Sales Surtax funds

                (Connie McLendon, Finance Director)  

 

                Connie McLendon, Finance Director, Clerk of Courts discussed the Approval of                Resolution Number 2012-005 and Budget Amendments to the FY11/12 budget to                redistribute Fund 130 Discretionary Sales Surtax Funds.

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approval of              resolution #2012-005 and budget amendments to the FY 2011/12 budget to redistribute Fund 130 Discretionary Sales Surtax Funds.

 

                Background:

                Recent changes in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles requires the County close               Fund 130 and set up accounts in several funds to record the Discretionary Sales Surtax           Funds directly instead of running the funds through a separate fund.

 

                Analysis:

                As a result of these changes, the Discretionary Sales Surtax funds will be split according             to the ordinance of record, and placed directly into the proper fund.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                By processing the attached budget amendments, there is no fiscal impact to the budget.            Staff is simply setting up the budget according to the direction of the auditors.

 

                Public Comment

Chair Taylor announced Public Hearing and asked for comments and there was no response.

 

Commissioner Croley what is 301. He asked that additional info be added for understanding.

 

Clerk Thomas it is being put back. Governmental Accounting Rules, all expenditures are the same.

 

Motion: Croley/ Holt 5-0

 

11.          Public Hearing – Approval of Resolution Number 2012-013 and Budget Amendment to                 the FY 11/12 Budget to Re-appropriate Fund 313 – Public Works – Dodger Ball Park   Road (Connie McLendon, Finance Director)  

 

 

                Connie McLendon, Finance Director addressed Board.

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approval of              resolution #2012-013 and budget amendment to the FY 2011/12 to re-appropriate fund    313-Public Works – Dodger Ball Park Road.

 

                Background:

                It is requested that the funds be re-appropriated from FY10/11 to FY11/12 for Fund 313-              Public Works – Dodger Ball Park Road match grant.

 

                Analysis:

                The $358,912.33 is the amount remaining in FY11 for the Dodger Ball Road match grant.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                By processing the attached budget amendment, funds will be re-appropriated to the FY             2011/2012 budget for the Dodger Ball Park Road match grant.

               

Public Comment

Chair Taylor announced Public Hearing and asked for Public Comment and there was no response.

 

Clerk Thomas it sets up funds.

 

Motion: Morgan/ Lamb 5-0

 

               

12.          Public Hearing – Approval of Resolution Number 2012-014 and Budget Amendments    to the FY 11/12 Budget to Move the Budget for the Property Appraiser from the General Fund to Property Appraiser Fund 128 (Connie McLendon, Finance Director)

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks the Board of County Commissioner (BOCC) approval of                resolution #2012-014 and budget amendments to the FY 2011/12 budget to move the       budget for the Property Appraiser from the General Fund to Property Appraiser Fund        128.

 

                Background:

                It is requested that the budget for the Property Appraiser approved by the Department              of Revenue be moved from the General Fund to its own fund – Fund 128 Property        Appraiser, For FY 12, several expenditures that Gadsden County pay will stay in the       General Fund Department.

 

                Analysis:

                The Property Appraiser requested the Department of Finance during the fall of 2011 to               handle the accounting of his budget.  In order to accurately handle this task, a separate      fund was set up by the Finance Department – Fund 128.        

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                By processing the attached budget amendments, budgeted funds for the Property        Appraiser will move from the General Fund to Fund 128.  The overall total budget               remains unchanged.

 

Public Comment:

Chair Taylor announced Public Hearing and asked for public comment and there was no response.

 

Motion: Croley/ Lamb 5-0

 

13.          Public Hearing – Approval to Award the Dodger Ball Road Park Bid, Budget         Amendment and Authorize the Chairperson to Execute All Documents

                (Charles Chapman, Public Works Director)  

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks Board approval to award the Dodger Ball Park Road resurfacing               contract to the recommended vendor.  Also, this items seeks approval and execution of            the corresponding budget amendment as required by the Government Finance Officer     Association Audit (GFOA) standards and the Contractors agreement, Notice of Award               and Notice to Proceed for the resurfacing of Dodger Ball Park Road.

 

                Background:

                On July 22, 2011 the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) issued the Notice to                Proceed to the Interim County Administrator authorizing the County to move forward                with the Cr 159-A (Dodger Ball Park Road) County Incentive Grant Program (CIGP)                project. Through contract number AQD01 the FDOT awarded the County $364,378.00        for the resurfacing of Dodger Ball Park Road from Attapulgus Highway to Salem Road.

 

                Analysis:

                Competitive bids were opened on Friday, March 2, 2012 for the Dodger Ball Road           resurfacing project.  Capital Asphalt is the low bid received with a total estimate at                $408,432.77.  The detailed bid tab is provided as Attachment A.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                The grant awarded budget for this project is $364,378.00.  After design, engineering,    and permitting the remaining amount of the funds for the project is approximately              $308,000.00.  The received and potentially awarded low bid is $408,432.77.  The         Finance Department for accounting purposes requires that a budget amendment be                 completed to reflect the awarded contract amount for each capital project.  The budget             amendment will require the addition of $100,432.77.  Funds are available in the Public   Works Reserves and are restricted to this type of project.  Staff does not anticipate            having to use all of these funds by employing several cost savings measures through                working with the awarded contractor during construction.

 

                Public Comment

Chair Taylor announced Public Hearing and asked for public comment and there was no response.

 

Justin Ford, Project Manager for Preble- Rish

Mark Mitchell, Gadsden Asphalt- He confirmed they do employ Gadsden residents.

Commissioner Holt – how many people from Gadsden County that are working.  She suggested it become part of the RFP.

Commissioner Croley – I share concerns of other Commissioners.  He said what is concerned him is this going to Bonded Job.  Are we getting the same that others are bidding of.

Ford- Same problem will be delivered.

 

Clerk Thomas – the Budgeted Amendment is attached in Item 11 it is adequate. He noted the one attach is not needed.

 

Motion: Croley/ Lamb

 

Questions:

Chair Taylor – the amount that was awarded FDOT does not cover entire project.  She asked what was the difference.

 

Commissioner Holt inquired about entire amount for project.

 

McLendon -County Standards what you agreed upon. We have to budgeted.

 

Clerk will have money left over, you accomplished it in 11.

 

Commissioner Holt would like for it all to be together and we need to identify the fund.

 

Chair Taylor asked had the road had work done previously.

 

Ford -said yes a small portion.

 

Motion to approve bid for Capital Asphalt:  Croley/ Lamb 5-0

 

General Business

               

14.          Grants – Approval of Resolution Number 2012-008 and Carry Forward Budget    Amendments for FY 2012 (Connie McLendon, Finance Director)    

 

Clerk Thomas commented Audit is over, time to get in place, we have numbers to carry              forward in the New Year.

 

Commissioner Morgan asked are we able to approve without Audit.

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks BOCC approval of FY 2012 Carry Forward Budget Amendment.

 

                Background:

                This process provides a method for the Board to establish budgetary authority for new               awarded grants and re-establish budgetary authority for grants that overlap multiple            fiscal years.  The process, via approval of budget amendments, allow for funding for        specific grants approval in current and previous fiscal years to be appropriated or re-          appropriated in the current fiscal year to support the continuation of these respective                grants.

 

                Analysis:

                The process must be implemented by the Board of County Commissioners via the         corresponding budget amendments in accordance with the Florida Statutes.

                Fiscal Impact:

                All grants will only receive funding that has been approved in FY 2012 or previously      approved by the Board, unless specifically outlined by County staff.

 

Motion: Morgan/Croley 5-0

 

Commissioner Holt questioned the Budget Director, Jeff Price presence.

 

15.          Applicant’s Request to Hold First of Two Public Hearing Required for Gadsden County to Apply for Florida Department of Community Affairs 2011 CDBG Economic               Development Grant (Anthony Matheny, Planning and Community Development           Director/Auburn Ford, Ford        Construction LLC)  

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item presents a request by Mr. Auburn Ford on behalf of Mr. Charlie Harris              to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to hold the first two Public Hearings      required for Gadsden County to submit a grant application to the Florida Department of             Community Affairs (FDCA), under the CDBG Program for the Gussie’s Garden Assisted               Living Care Facility.  The grant would fund infrastructure improvements at the site.

 

                Background:

                A conceptual plan for Gussie’s Garden Inn ACLF was approved by the Gadsden County                 BOCC on March 1, 2005.  Mr. Harris is the owner of Sirrah Mini Storage located 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 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 on 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.  This is the applicant’s third request for the County to apply for    CDBG funding for infrastructure improvements for Gussie’s Garden Assisted Living                Facility.  Previous requests for funding for this same project were denied by the                 Department of Community Affairs (now the Department of Economic Opportunity).

 

                Analysis:

                Grant funding will be utilized for infrastructure improvements at the existing Sirrah Mini           Storage site located off of Highway 90 West. Improvements shall include the installation     of sewer lines, lighting and paving of access roads.  The project will result in              approximately 11 additional full-time employment opportunities for Gadsden County                 residents.  Additionally, the completion of the Assisted Living Facility project will have a           significant financial and economic impact on the community.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

If funded, the infrastructure improvement will be paid 100% from grants.  There will be staff time devoted to the grant application process, which may involve the county selecting a consultant to apply for the grant.  He said they have addressed ad and it has been corrected, just need to have Public Hearing.

 

Auburn Ford addressed Board.  He said they have corrected the deficiency major notice of public hearing.  They are requiring us to hold the Public Hearing again, the 2nd one.

 

                Discussion by the Board

Chair Taylor asked for update and resolution at this point. She asked opinion of Attorney.

 

Commissioner Croley commented it is the 3rd time, still have funds for fiscal year 2011.  He said he not in favor of holding up other applicants that may want to apply. 

 

Attorney Minnis said it is her opinion; they are treating 2nd Public Hearing as the 1st Hearing, Task Force. He needs to go back and do 2nd Public Hearing.  He is asking to redo 2nd Public Hearing.  You are not approving Project, just allowing him to have Public Hearing.

 

Mr. Lawson’s concern if it goes forward

 

Commissioner Croley - Is this a reimbursable grant. 

 

Mr. Ford said funding must be forthcoming within 60 days, Business Owner is on hook.

 

Chair Taylor asked for discussion.

 

Holt – Waiting to see what Federal Government says. If you don’t do this with someone it will be hard to get funds.  We can have cut-off date, meet payroll.  How far did we fall back, because we sent funds back?  We need sewer lines in the ground.

 

Lamb – Cautioned he is not comfortable.  He asked was this a private vendor.

 

Morgan – I think the comments you here are because we want good projects. He commented the letter of Capital City intent of funding. 

 

Holt – Proposed Plan.  He has window if he doesn’t get finance, we can cut project off.  She asked that they look at this project.  She motion for approval, seconded by Morgan.

 

Lamb – if everything goes well, it’s like Gadsden County being the Co-signer, his concern was private company.  He asked was it fair to be placed in this position.  He said he was not comfortable.

 

Chair Taylor thanked Board for dialogue and asked for a letter from the Bank.

 

Motion for Approval: Holt/Morgan -to have 2nd Public Hearing 5-0

 

 

 

               

16.          Approval of CentreLearn Solutions Agreement for EMS Training (Tommy Baker, EMS     Director)  

 

                Statement of Issue:

                Gadsden EMS conducts bi-monthly 2 hour mandatory In-Service training required by    our Medical Director.  Our average cost for salary and wages for this training is       $1,200.00 per session.  This item seeks approval for an on-line training system to meet               these requirements and reduce the number of onsite trainings resulting in a more cost                 efficient method of meeting training requirements.  Under this system, employees will             be able to complete many of the trainings while on duty, reducing overtime and salary         costs for onsite training.  This system allows us to create our own content for training        specific to our medical protocols and allows us access to 285 courses that CentreLearn       currently has online.

 

                Background:

                Gadsden County Emergency Medical Service is an Advanced Life Support provider and                as such is required by our Medical Director to assure that personnel meet minimum            training requirements and that personnel receive training specific to our medical                 protocols.

 

                Analysis:

                Approval required for Chairperson’s signature on the CentreLearn Solutions Agreement            to start the process to offer on-line courses to reduce our costs of onsite training.

 

                Fiscal Impact:

                The fee for this service is $48.00 per employee per year.  We currently have 50                employees on staff for an estimated total of $2,400.00 per year.  Additional employees    and participants will be added at the rate of $48.00 per person.  This pricing is a ‘piggy-                back” on the Orange County Florida EMS bid price (contract #Y10-108-GJ), valid through                12/10/2012.  This is $10.00 per employee less than the standard pricing for this service.               This contact pricing will be valid through April of 2013.  We are currently spending approximately $7,200.00 per year in salary and wages for bi-monthly training and          project that through this service we can reduce this cost by a minimum of 50%.

 

 

                Motion for Approval Croley/Lamb

Question:

 

Taylor - Do we have agreement in place.

 

Baker – Multi-Year,

Holt – Questioned Life’s in jeopardy, level of training,

Baker – Specific to protocol

 

Motion for Approval Croley/Lamb 5-0

 

17.          Approval of Matching Funds for the Florida Boating Improvement Program Grant for     High Bluff Landing (Charles Chapman, Public Works Director/Robert Presnell,           Administrative Coordinator)  

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks Board approval to use Boating Improvement Fund Balance (Fund           178) for a portion of the required County match for the High Bluff Boating Improvement      Project.

 

                Background:

                On November 2, 2010 The Board approved Resolution No. 2010-045 and authorized       staff to seek funding through the Boating Improvement Program to renovate the boat            landing pavilion, parking area, and fishing facilities located at High Bluff Landing. This           program is a matching grant program and is used specifically to aid in the development    and renovation of boating and fishing facilities. The Grant was awarded to the County                 for the project and on December 6, 2011 the Board approved the agreement.

 

                Analysis:

                Staff requests approval to use up to $14,000 in fund balance out of the Boating                Improvement (Fund 178).  This fund is restricted to boat launching facilities and other       boating improvement projects and currently has a balance of $170,533.  Costs for    Neighborhood Services staff time, administers the project is allowable for the grant    match   and will be used to reduce the required cash match form the Boating            Improvement fund balance.

 

                Financial Impacts:

                The $51,908 Florida Boating Improvement Grant will fund the majority of the $66,660   project. The 22% required matching funds %14, 692, will be from fund balance in the          Boating Improvement Fund (Fund 178) and credit for Neighborhood Services staff time           spent on the project.

 

                Motion for Approval: Croley/ Holt 5-0

 

 

18.          Consideration of Request by the Community and Economic Development Organization               of Gadsden County Inc. for the Disposition of Property on Martin Luther King Boulevard      in Quincy (Robert Presnell, Administrative Coordinator)  

 

                Mr. Presnell commented he did research on item.  He said there was no appraisal done.

 

Mrs. Millie Forehand, Executive Director CEDO, she said they own the land and they paid less than $11,000 an acre.

 

Chair Taylor asked what was purpose of Land.

 

Commissioner Lamb no problem with the land, but would like to receive something for land.

 

Morgan – do we have any other cost to land beside purchase?

 

Taylor – No problem with Growth and Development, Have Administrator look at cost.

 

Holt – mentioned property that was given away at lake on McCall Bridge Road.  County paid turn around.  Those where things that were done with public dollars.  You can’t do without looking at value. You can’t do for one what you won’t do for another.

 

 

Chair Taylor – we need to clarify what Commissioner Holt.  The Turnaround, who paid the funds? She recalled the owner paid. She clarified the owner gave $5,000 and explained the process.

 

Mr. Lawson said he was not prepared to discuss this issue.

 

Holt – Property belongs to Citizen’s.

 

Croley - Is this surplus property, are there any plans for property. If this is surplus property – has realtor be involved.  He said the appropriate thing would be is to turn over to Realtor. 

 

Lawson – no plans for property.

 

 

Chair Taylor – vote to donate or allow yielding to Realtor.

Motion to Approve for Option 1Holt – Motion dies for lack of second.

 

                Statement of Issue:

                This agenda item seeks Board direction on a request from the Community and Economic            Development Organization of Gadsden County Inc. for the transfer of 3.03 acres of land           that the County owns on Martin Luther King Boulevard in Quincy to that organization.

 

                Background:

                On April 17, 2007 the Board of County Commissioners approved funding to begin           operations of the Boys and Girls Clubs in Quincy and Chattahoochee.

 

                October 1, 2077, the Chattahoochee Boys and Girls Club opened for business.

               

                During the March 31, 2008 BOCC budget workshop, the construction of site built             permanent facilities for the Boys and Girls Clubs in Chattahoochee and Quincy were              indentified.

 

                June 17, 2008, the BOCC approved the funding for the Boys and Girls facility      constructions project as part of their FY2009 Budget Priorities.

 

                On September 16, 2008, Gadsden County purchased the 3.03 acre property located on Martin Luther King Blvd. for $122,523.90.

 

                On February 22, 2012, the Interim County Administrator received a letter from Mrs.      Mille Forehand, Executive Director of the Community and Economic Development              Organization of Gadsden County Inc.  This letter was a formal request for the county to              transfer ownership of 3.03 acres of property to that organization.  The property under    consideration is a 3.0 acre tract located off Martin Luther King Boulevard in Quincy.

 

                Analysis:

                The BOCC on November 3, 2088 approved a funding agreement to the Boys and Girls    Club of the Big Bend to construct a permanent site built facility.  This facility was not    built and the County has no current plans to develop the property.

 

                Staff acknowledges the property is ideally located in reference to the local library,       schools, neighborhoods and city parks.  Furthermore, the site is adjacent to Pat Thomas               Parkway, which serves as a major thoroughfare for Quincy and Gadsden County      residents.

               

                Staff as directed had researched the possibility of selling the property in the past, but                 the current economy has affected real estate prices to the extent that the County could     not recoup the initial investment.

 

                The property is currently valued at $10,605 on the tax roll.  Although a new appraisal    has not been done, a larger adjacent tract (20 acres) recently sold for approximately              $11,000 per acre.

 

                Financial Impacts:

                The County purchased the property on September 16, 2008 for $122,523.  Staff                 estimates a current value of $33,000 based on recent sales in the area.

 

Motion: Croley/ Morgan 5-0 have Staff to look at cost, have it go through Realtor and make contact with interested parties. (Motion carries)

 

 

19.          National Solar Update (Material to be Provided)

                (Deborah Minnis, County Attorney/David Weiss, Assistant County Attorney)

 

 

Attorney Minnis has revised National Solar Draft. You have to submit application, Ordinance and Agreement that must be delivered. She commented contact is in place on both ends. She said they are still in negotiation stage. Send concerns to National Solar.

 

Marion Lasley, 5 Dante Court, National Solar Update – She said she was extremely impressed with this document that the Attorney’s had prepared.

 

David Gardner, He said he received letter from National Solar highlighting keypoints.  He said he felt the County was ready to move on & send contract.

 

Commissioner Croley – Question commented 1 on email. He asked was this the business model for Gadsden County to be competitive. 

 

Commissioner Morgan – He thanked Mrs. Lasley for acknowledging the Attorney Firm.  He said he felt it was moving properly and adequate.  He asked that the Commission consider meeting the requirements.

 

Gardner – Very important pieces of contract, could take Gadsden out of the game.

 

Holt – Did you check with other Counties.  She questioned research.  She referenced 4.5 page 7 of Agreement.  She asked that the information to be emailed from Hardee and Liberty.

 

Gardner – He did. Liberty and Hardee Counties.

 

Attorney Minnis we have not sent draft to National Solar.

 

Morgan – I’m asking that you make changes they have sent and forward.

Motion: Morgan/ Croley forward economic agreement with changes made

Question

Holt – No problem with 10 years, just asking for clarity.

Croley – we need to meet need, so we want lose project.

Gardner – Chamber is pushing for abatement except in special circumstances , we need to make sure it is a level playing field.

Taylor – referenced one county is paying 80%.  She said she doesn’t see model.  The County walks away with nothing, nothing in agreement that guarantees jobs to Gadsden Residents, but it does benefit the School System.

Gardner – total 9 million per farm per 20 year period. Will have a huge impact with employment. 

Lamb – will support, but has caution.

Lasley –verify 20-50Megawatts is reasonable range.  Has anybody checked with Talquin or someone why 50 is it good or bad? Section 3.1

Section 4.2 - National Solar pay for the cost or Board will pay for land use changes.

4.5- Cash Grant – Rebate on building Fees, I would like something put in there that says the study must be done or we don’t have to pay for it.  She said it reads that we pay whether they do or not.

Building Fees- Based on percentage value of project. How many we are giving up by capping things for the project.  You can’t afford to do their business for them.

Counties other counties – Abatement relates to their budgets.

Lamb – not in compliance with all the request of National Solar.

Holt – address the Building Inspection Fees.

Atty. – You don’t have any mount. Can’t give a hard number, Capped fees at a certain amount.

 

Motion Morgan/Croley 5-0 – to have changes 2from National Solar included in the draft and send to National Solar with recommended changes 

 

County Administrator  

 

20.          Update on Board Requests

                (Arthur Lawson, Interim County Administrator)               

 

Medicaid Bill – Governor did sign bill. ACHA will meet with Counties, so we have to wait to see what the law says to move forward on backpayments.  He said it will have a tremendous impact.

 

2012-2013 Budget - departments will send in there by April 13.  Tentative Budget Calendar after raw numbers are placed together. Information for

County Attorney

                 

21.          Update on Various Legal Issues

                (Deborah Minnis, County Attorney)

 

No items.

 

Code Enforcement Ordinance – Commissioner Croley

Atty. Minnis – We are working forward on document. She commented they are doing rearranging. 1st meeting in June

 

Discussion Items by Commissioners      

 

 22.

                Commissioner Lamb, District 1 –  

Ø  Cautioned what is said to Citizens to protect County. Policies are in place.

Ø  Spending – Mentioned cuts that are about to effect the County.  Department Heads have been asked to trim by 10%. He said he was not in support of Layoff’s in the County. Ways & Means to support County

 

 

                Commissioner Croley, District 2  

Ø  CRTPA Report – $88,000,000; Quincy Bypass - $14,000,000.00 everything is on track and should start in 2013. Little River Bridge Work, Resurfacing on I-10.  Advocated for Lights around interchange, acknowledged Delores Madison, City of Midway – Do want we can for the Quincy Express, nothing for Shuttle.  Focus is to get them (people) to work. Filed with the Clerk’s Office.

 

Chair Taylor asked for breakdown for $88,000,000.00.

 

Commissioner Croley – it is referenced and broke down in book.

Ø  Port St. Joe – inlet port

                Commissioner Holt, District 4     

Ø  Gretna Exchange

Ø  Friendship Park – thanked Robert Presnell for work.

Ø  Comprehensive Plan work needs to be done.

Ø  Buyer Beware of Property

Ø  Agenda Process

Ø  CDBG – getting someone on Board for grant writing process.

Ø  RFP – address County Employees, to ensure they are residents of the County.

Mr. Lawson stated my local preference could be done such as neighboring Counties have done. We need to look at information

Motion:  Holt/ Lamb to add local preference to add to Agenda;

Question:

Morgan – Have you experienced where less people respond to RFP than normal in Quincy.

Lawson – depends on type of project that you bid.

                                Croley – you have to meet Federal Requirement.

 

                                Motion 5-0 (Motion Carries)

Ø  Crossroad Academy – Travon Martin (the dignity of the kids) with very little supervision.

Ø  Redistricting – I’m apart of lawsuit, notified info

 

                Commissioner Morgan, Vice Chairman, District 3  - No Concerns

                                                                    

                Commissioner Taylor, Chairperson, District 5

 

Ø  Note on Cabinetry from March 20,2012 BCC Meeting, Tax Collector – Vote No(Change of Vote)

Ø  Redistricting – To vote up or down, please bring back.

Ø  Leave for Manager –Process for Travel, does not

Ø  Senior Citizen’s Parking Lot Update – We are waiting on second quote.

Clyde Collins concerns with Asphalt. Ready to present to Board.

Ø  CW Roberts Activity – what is process going forward.

Atty. Minnis suggested it be placed on the agenda for discussion.

Motion Taylor/Lamb for discussion CW Roberts Activity – 5-0(Motion Carries0

Ø  Proclamation – what to do with them.

Atty. Minnis – to declare if it some person’s day, I think it should have Board approval. It was County – Wide.

Taylor – Whatever language we need to stay in between

Croley – Resolution, Commissioner can do with their name; if it represents Board it needs to come before Board.

Atty. – Proclamation are more assertiveness.

Ø  Summer Employment – limited summer employment to find funding sources

Motion: Taylor/ Holt for discussion to see what’s available 3-2 for discussion (Opposed Croley/Morgan) motion carries.

Ø  Legislative Delegation – Reached out County Lobbyist – as soon as we get date update(Lawson – Medicaid, etc.)

Ø  Budget Reductions 10% per staff – devise plan to save 1-2 million dollars.

Holt – 10% cut for Constitutional Officers.

 

 

 

  

Motion to Adjourn          @ 9:44pm           

 

Receipt and File

 

 

April Meeting(s)

 

                - April 17, 2012, Regular Meeting, 9:00 a.m.