Legislative Delegation Meeting

The 2014 Legislative Priorities

Gadsden County

January 23, 2014

6:00 P.M.

Gadsden County Board of County Commission

AGENDA & NOTES

Present: Eric Hinson, Chair                                                                          Legislation: Senator Bill Montford

                     Robert Presnell                                                                                        Representative Alan Williams

I. Call to Order:  Representative Alan Williams, Chairman

II. Pledge of Allegiance, Michael Keys (Senior at EGHS) & Invocation, Rev. Hadley ( Pine Bloom Pastor)

III. Introduction of Delegation Members – Senator Montford introduced his staff, Marilyn Barnes, Melissa Durham and spoke of the privilege of representing Gadsden County.

Representative Williams said they are proud to have Senator Montford leadership in the Legislature. He also introduced his staff Chicarla Williams Pye and Rachel Favors.

IV. Announcements

A. The 2014 Legislative Session begins March 4, 2014

B. Citizens who wish to address the delegation are requested to fill out an appearance card.

V. Appearances:

A. County Commission – Eric Hinson, Chairman   Thanked the Legislation for their service. He read the quick facts (attached).

Chris Doolin, Lobbyist for County spoke of the Courthouse Renovations & Agriculture Multi-Purpose Facility. He also outlined the 2014 Legislative Priorities for the County. He discussed the Medicaid Cost Share formula change will have the following impact during the period 2016 through 2020. He thanked Senator Montford for all his efforts.

  Robert Presnell spoke briefly to the Delegation and expressed appreciation on behalf of the County. He mentioned the 2 special projects. He discussed the Agriculture Multi- Purpose Facility and asked for their assistance. The second project of the Gadsden Courthouse Renovations, he said there is a lot of work needed and asked for assistance.

B. Constitutional Officers

Sheriff – Morris Young, Richard Davidson

Mr. Davidson spoke on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office the issue they would like help with is the Youth Center. He said they are proposing again because of Juvenile Delinquency is rapid in Gadsden County. He spoke of the importance of At-Risk Youth having somewhere to go it sits on 35 acres with 75,000 square feet. They asked for Funding in the amount $500,000.

Clerk of Court – Nicholas Thomas (NP)

Tax Collector – W. Dale Summerford (NP)

Property Appraiser – Clay VanLandingham (NP)

Supervisor of Elections – Shirley Knight (NP)

C. Superintendent of Schools (NP)

D. City Commissioners

Ø City of Midway, Dorothy Inman gave a short presentation. She said they are the front door to the West of Gadsden County. She said she would like more use of the Industrial Park, more business coming to the area. She also spoke of upgraded sewer infrastructure that it be considered.

Senator Montford said 5 in the Senate are working on State Wide Water.  This bill will identify State Revenue. He said this is a bi-partisan effort.

Ø City of Gretna, Antonio Jefferson came before Delegation. 1.) Gaming- I-10 Consolidation Plan. We want Class 2 Operation. Business Investment and asked for support. 2.) Casting Water Project.

Senator Montford had the honor of serving on the Gaming Committee. He stated he knows the Citizen’s voted for it, but is it something you feel the Citizen’s still want.

Mr. Jefferson confirmed the Citizens are still in support. He said if they can bring the people off the interstate they can support the economic growth and see the beauty in the County.

Ø City of Chattahoochee, Lee Garner, echoed Mr. Jefferson’s comments on gaming.  Finish Water Product in Rosedale. He spoke of support of FSH. Uniform Charge of Accounts to study (KMG from Financial Officers) to include Cities, Counties, etc. $13.7 Million start up (We would have to furnish financials to the State each month.) Not in support.

Representative Williams thanked Mr. Garner for his support throughout the years.

VI. Public Testimony – None

VII. Closing Remarks

Senator Montford said they are working hard for rural counties. He asked them all to bear with them during the process.

Representative Williams thanked the Board and Mr. Presnell for being the host. He said they are honored to be legislation for this area. He mentioned this was the second year in row with increase revenue. He thanked all for coming out.

VIII. Adjourn (Benediction) Chair Eric Hinson - BOCC @ 7:14 pm