BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA

REGULAR MEETING

MARCH 9, 1999

The Board of County Commissioners of Leon County, Florida met in regular session with Commissioner Thaell presiding. Those in attendance were Commissioners Sauls, Maloy, Host, Proctor, Winchester, and Rackleff. Also in attendance were County Attorney Herb Thiele, County Administrator Parwez Alam, Deputy Clerk Bill Bogan, Jr., and Secretary Sandra C. O’Neal.

Invocation

Invocation was provided by Commissioner Sauls followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS

The Chairman presented the attached resolution for Girl Scout Council of the Apalachee Bend in honor of Girl Scout Week (March 7 – 13, 1999): Girl Scout Troop 375 was present to receive the resolution.

Commissioner Sauls announced that during United Way celebrations, Leon County received an award for "Excellence in Giving" for leading the community in contributions over $50,000. She applauded employees and, on behalf of the Board, presented Mr. Don Lanham, Team Captain, with a candy tin for his efforts.

  1. INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES
  2. Ms. Sue Baldwin, Human Services, introduced the following new employees: Robert Winton, Facilities Management; Robin Cook, Facilities Management; Neil Welsh, Fleet Management; Barbara Grossman, Library; Cedric Mitchell, Solid Waste Management; Wendell Ling, Solid Waste Management; Nancy Paul, Solid Waste Management; Stephen Smith, Solid Waste Management; Teresa Norton, Building Inspection; Kem Washington, 9-1-1. The County Administrator announced that Robert Winton is the new Construction Manager, Facilities Management, and has replaced Leonard Gray, who recently retired.

  3. PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

Ms. Christine Coble, Staff and Organizational Development, presented Mr. Bill Kimberl with a Herosim Award. Mr. Kimberl was recognized for his quick and effective response to a motorist’s serious automobile situation, involving a fire. The agenda request also acknowledged Employees of the Quarter and QDI Teams of the Quarter.

CONSENT AGENDA

Commissioner Sauls moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Winchester and carried unanimously, to approve the following Consent Agenda with the exception of Items 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12, which were addressed as described:

3. APPROVAL OF BILLS AND VOUCHERS

The Board approved the County bills and authorized the Chairman and the Clerk to issue the proper warrants: $4,016,607.72

4. MINUTES APPROVAL

The Board approved the Minutes of December 18, 1998 Special, February 16, 1999 Regular, and February 23, 1999.

  1. ACCEPTANCE OF LIBRARY DONATIONS
  2. This item was pulled by Commissioner Host to acknowledge that this item is a donation to the library (from Barnett Bank) and to express gratitude for all donations. Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Sauls and carried unanimously, to approve Option 1: Accept $14,870 in donations to the Library and direct the establishment of the necessary financial accounts (attached budget amendments):

     

  3. AGREEMENT AND BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND
  4. This agenda item is to decide whether to accept a grant and approve a budget amendment to expend $15,000 from the Florida Supreme Court to partially fund a family mediator position in Leon County. The Board approved the agreement and attached budget amendment:

     

  5. APPROVAL OF BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR SCHOLARSHIP
  6. Chairman Thaell pulled this item from Consent to acknowledge Sandco, Inc., and Premier Construction for their donation of $15,000 to subsidize the scholarship account for the remainder of the fiscal year. Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Sauls and carried unanimously, to approve Option 1: Approve the attached budget amendment to increase account number 140-436-58300-572 by $15,000:

     

  7. RAMIFICATION OF ACTIONS TAKEN AT WORKSHOP ON FEDERAL AND STATE LOBBYING INITIATIVES
  8. The Board ratified the actions taken at the February 16, 1999 workshop on federal and state lobbying initiatives as described in the attached agenda request:

     

  9. RATIFICATION OF ACTIONS TAKEN AT JOINT WORKSHOP ON FIRE SERVICES FEE AND JOINT DISPATCH/EOC
  10. This item involves ratifying action the Board took at the Joint Workshop on fire services fee and joint dispatch on February 7, 1999. County Administrator Alam pulled this item and circulated the attached faxed letter from the City Manager. Mr. Alam explained that the City disagrees with fire services item 1 in the County Commission agenda item. Mr. Alam stated that it was staff’s understanding that Board direction was to direct the consultant to devise the proposed fee structure to a more equitable distribution of costs using a three-tier approach; City, urban, and rural. The City’s letter suggests that the Board did not take this action. Commissioner Host stated that he thought that the consultant indicated that the three-tier approach would not be legally sound and he concurs with the City on this issue. County Attorney Thiele stated that he is of the opinion that the three-tier fee system may be possible. The Board directed that the County Attorney research the issue and bring it back.

    In a related matter, Chairman Thaell reported on the results of the meeting that he and the County Administrator had with the General Manager and Chairman of Talquin Electric Cooperative on extension of water services throughout the urban fire service area and the method of billing for fire services fee (using Talquin’s billing method). Chairman Thaell explained that there was cooperation with Talquin on the issue of expansion of water services throughout the unincorporated area but there was no willingness to agree on the issue of using Talquin billing system to bill county residents for a fire services fee. The Chairman reported that County staff and Talquin officials are tasked with getting back together to look at areas of water service expansion.

    Following some discussion, Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Maloy and carried unanimously, to delay this agenda item (ratification of February 17th joint Fire Services Fee Workshop) issue until staff brings the issue (described above) back to the Board.

  11. REQUEST TO SCHEDULE WORKSHOP, BRADFORDVILLE STORMWATER STUDY AND WATER QUALITY TESTING

The Community Development is requesting a workshop titled Bradfordville Stormwater Study and Water Quality Testing. Commissioner Proctor pulled this item to apologize to the Chairman for his recent e-mail because he mistakenly thought that the Chairman was delaying the discussion of the Bradfordville Settlement Agreement. Commissioner Proctor requested that the settlement agreement update be scheduled for discussion either in a workshop or at a regular meeting. Mr. Alam stated that the Growth and Environmental Management Report has been previously provided and the County Attorney’s report was provided today. Commissioner Proctor stated that the stormwater issue had been anticipated and budgeted but some of the issues that have come forward in the information from the County Attorney had not been budgeted and it has created a cost overrun crisis situation. Commissioner Proctor stated that he thinks that there are a number of budgetary concerns which could raise some legal issues and that it warrants Board review, using newly compiled data and consideration of a policy.

Commissioner Host indicated support for reviewing the matter but suggested that a public review in a workshop or regular meeting would not be productive. Some of the Board members indicated support for an attorney-client meeting on this issue.

The Chairman explained that the Judge on Friday essentially did not do anything affirmatively, and was going to continue with his position which was that he was not going to enter into an order on the enforcement issue, that he was going to ratify or reaffirm his decision that the Thomasville Road widening project was vested and not subject to the temporary injunction. Chairman Thaell stated that the Judge would conduct another hearing if necessary on the issue of interpretation of paragraph 3-C of the interim settlement agreement that deals with plugging of the outfall pipe on the Lauder stormwater facility.

Commissioner Rackleff moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Proctor to be briefed by the County Attorney and appropriate staff, either in a public meeting or individually as deemed appropriate. County Attorney Thiele stated that he assumes that this action means, at some point, to put something on the agenda for group direction. Commissioner Proctor stated that he is making a request that an agenda item be brought back.

No vote was taken, but the Board indicated consensus that the County Attorney attempt to book appointments with individual commissioners as directed by the Board. The Chairman advised that an agenda item would be brought back to the Board on the Bradfordville Settlement Agreement and associated costs with development in Bradfordville, enforcement of the Bradfordville Settlement agreement, and associated costs regarding previous decisions in the Bradfordville area, and the County Attorney will meet with individual commissioners (and then the item would be placed on the agenda). The Chairman requested that Commissioners make themselves available so the County Attorney can meet with them, as soon as possible, to discuss this item privately.

Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Sauls and carried unanimously, to approve Option 1: Schedule the workshop on Bradfordville Stormwater Study and Water Quality Testing for Tuesday, April 13, 1999 from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m.

11. APPROVAL OF QUIT-CLAIM DEED TO LEON COUNTY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ON 18-ACRE SITE AT EISENHOWER ROAD CLAY PIT

On October 27, 1997, the County and the Leon County Research and Development Authority (LCRDA) finalized an agreement to resolve ownership rights involving the Eisenhower Clay Pits in advance of the Lake Munson Restoration Project. In the agreement, the Board agreed to quit claim interest in an 18-acre parcel of the Eisenhower Clay Pits. The Board approved Option 1: Authorize the Chairman to sign the quit-claim deed to the Authority.

12. APPROVAL OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR FINAL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS FOR ORANGE AVENUE ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS

This item involves approval of Request for Proposals (RFP) for Final Design and Preparation of construction documents for Orange Avenue roadway improvements from South Monroe Street (S.R.61) to Blairstone Road. Commissioner Rackleff pulled this item and explained that he talked with Sally Dowlen, Public Works, regarding the design criteria of the roadway improvement, which basically involves Orange Avenue from Monroe Street to Blairstone Road. He stated that this is an opportunity for providing alternative transportation methods to areas such as Indian Head Acres, Apalachee Ridge and South City, and suggested that a pedestrian crosswalk between Meridian Road and Jim Lee Road be considered. He also recommended that additional signals be constructed on Orange Avenue.

The Chairman inquired as to how this project would impact Monday Road and Mr. Mike Willett, Public Works Director, explained that this project does not have any direct impact on Monday Road. He stated that Blairstone Road to Capital Circle is a City project and the County’s project is between Blairstone Road and Monroe Street. Commissioner Rackleff stated that he has serious concerns and hopes that the City does not disrupt the Monday Road community.

Commissioner Rackleff suggested that the roadway be constructed to accommodate pedestrians and suggested that additional signals be constructed on Orange Avenue. Ms. Dowlen explained that pedestrian crossing signals would be a concern of the City of Tallahassee and she would contact City Traffic Operations regarding the appropriate process.

Commissioner Rackleff moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Host to approve Option 1: Authorize an advertisement of the Request For Proposal (RFP) for consultant services as presented. The question was called. Commissioner Winchester offered a motion to reconsider. The Chairman advised that the motion was out of order and called for the vote on the motion on the floor. The motion carried 6 – 1 (Commissioner Winchester voted in opposition). The Chairman advised Commissioner Winchester that he could bring the issue forward at the end of the meeting under discussion items.

13. UPDATE OF THE 9-1-1 SYSTEMS AND SERVICES CONTRACT WITH SPRINT

The County’s 9-1-1 systems and services contract with Sprint needs to be renewed and updated in order to address Year 2000 (Y2K) compliance and to meet the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) "Rules and Order 96-102." The FCC Rules and Order requires the 9-1-1 system to have the capability to process number and location identification for wireless telephones (cellular and mobile). Sprint has submitted a Rental Agreement to replace the existing 9-1-1 system and equipment. The Board approved Option 1: Approve the rental agreement with Sprint for 9-1-1 system and services.

14. APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT BANKING TEAM SELECTION

This item is to request Board approval to select a team of Investment Banking Firms to underwrite tax-exempt bonds for future financing for Leon County. The Board approved Option 1: Approve the five firms selected by the Selection Committee and designate Salomon Smith Barney as Senior Manager for the next bonds issued by the County. (The five firms selected were: A. G. Edwards, First Union, Jackson Securities, Paine Webber and Salomon Smith Barney.)

GENERAL BUSINESS

15. WOODMONT POND STORMWATER TREATMENT VOLUME ALLOCATION

At the meeting of February 23, 1999, the Board directed staff to prepare an agenda item for Woodmont Pond and reconsideration of Alternative 9 of Lake Jackson Okeeheepkee Basin Stormwater Alternatives and Plan. In order to finalize design plans for Woodmont Pond, staff is requesting Board direction concerning the volume of treatment to be provided within Woodmont Pond for the remaining undeveloped Woodmont Subdivision.

The Chairman announced that this item has been pulled from the agenda and would be discussed at a later date. Commissioner Winchester reported that he has been meeting with parties involved and will continue to do so and would bring back a recommendation.

Commissioner Maloy stated that the Board previously approved Alternative 9 on the Woodmont Pond and asked if worked has ceased at this time. County Administrator Alam explained that design work has been stopped on this project since there was no need to spend the money if the Board changes direction. The Chairman stated that he hopes this issue will be resolved quickly and brought back to the Board in two weeks.

(The Board then entered into Public Hearings, starting with Item 18.)

16. REVIEW OF PROPOSED BUSINESS REGULATION ORDINANCE FOR FORTUNE TELLERS/CLAIRVOYANTS

(On January 16, 1996, the Board adopted an ordinance repealing the existing ordinance regulating fortune tellers, clairvoyants, etc.) This item involves consideration of a proposed ordinance and direction on whether to advertise for public hearing an ordinance reinstating business regulations for fortunetellers, clairvoyants, etc. County Attorney Thiele explained that Commissioner Host received correspondence from the Sheriff on the need for the Board to readdress this issue.

Commissioner Host moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Sauls to bring this issue to public hearing. Chairman Thaell asked that astrologers not be included in this ordinance. The motion carried unanimously.

17. APPROVAL OF ADDITIONAL STAFFING FOR COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE

Commissioner Host moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Rackleff to approve Option 1: Approve the addition of one attorney and one support person for the Leon County Attorney’s Office for purposes of environmental and land use issues. It was noted that the budget amendment amount would fund through the end of this fiscal year.

Commissioner Winchester offered an amendment to the motion that the County Attorney bring back some type of dispute resolution process in a couple of weeks. Commissioner Host did not accept the amendment but suggested that the issue be dealt with outside of this motion.

The motion on the floor carried unanimously.

Commissioner Winchester moved that the County Attorney bring back information on a dispute resolution process. It was the consensus of the Board that the County Attorney bring back a draft proposal for such a process.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

18. PUBLIC HEARING – PROPOSED ORDINANCE REVISION TO TRANSFER LIMITED PERMIT AUTHORITY FOR CANOPY ROAD CUTS

Pursuant to legal advertisement, a public hearing was conducted.

Commissioner Host moved and was duly seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve Option 1: Adopt the revised ordinance which authorizes the County Administrator or designee to grant or deny permit applications for tree removal within a designated canopy road zone under defined limitations on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners. County Administrator explained that the proposed change in the ordinance would allow staff to issue some permits on canopy roads within a limited set of circumstances and would only apply to single- family driveway cuts, diseased trees, trees that cause a hazard, and it would allow silviculture operations. Mr. Lee Hartsfield, GEM, explained that the Canopy Road Committee reviewed this item and supported the revision.

The Chairman emphasized the importance of the Board reviewing canopy tree permits on large projects. He also reported that he has had discussions with staff as to the reason the County has been less aggressive with the tree replantings on canopy roads, and was advised that part of the reason was that the Canopy Road Coordinator was now the coordinator for every County road, not just canopy roads. Chairman Thaell suggested that this issue be discussed during budget workshops.

Mr. George E. Lewis, II, 203-6 N. Gadsden Street, appeared and alleged that the proposed ordinance differs from what staff is explaining to the Board. He stated that the proposed ordinance states that any tree can be removed that is a threat to vehicular traffic and it does not limit it to single family driveways.

Mr. Alam explained that the County has no intention of follow FDOT green book standards for safety on canopy roads, and that this language could be inserted in the ordinance, because the Board has already made a decision that these canopy roads would be narrow and would not have the safe sight distances that are required on other highways. He also advised that there are very few cases where trees are removed due to safety concerns. It was the consensus of the Board to bring back a policy showing that it is the Board’s determination that canopy roads do not follow the FDOT green book standards.

Commissioner Winchester suggested that the number of tree removals be monitored. The Chairman directed staff to provide a report every six months for the next year on the number of tree removal permits.

Commissioner Host modified the motion to delete from the ordinance paragraph d. subparagraph 1 (Safety Hazard) and renumber the remaining paragraphs. Commissioner Proctor stated that he does not accept the modified motion and withdrew his second.

Commissioner Rackleff offered a substitute motion to approve the proposed ordinance with the deletion of paragraph d. subparagraph 1 (Safety Hazard) and renumber the remaining paragraphs. Commissioner Host seconded the motion. Commissioner Rackleff explained that the Board is not implying that they would not consider safety hazards when removing trees on canopy roads, but the Board would make that decision rather than staff.

Mr. Alam recommended a change to line 40 of the proposed ordinance, adding the following language : "the County Administrator or his designee (delete "director") shall grant permit applications for the removal of trees or other vegetation only when one of the following conditions exist." The change was accepted.

The motion on the floor carried 6 – 1 (Commissioner Proctor voted in opposition.) See attached Ordinance 99-06:

 

 

19. PUBLIC HEARING – PROPOSED ORDINANCE REVISING THE PROVISIONS OF TEMPORARY USES

Pursuant to legal advertisement, a public hearing was conducted. County Attorney Thiele explained that this is the first of two public hearings regarding off-site construction staging areas and temporary construction permits. He stated that he is still working on this issue.

No one appeared in favor of or in opposition to the issue.

Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Sauls and carried unanimously, to approve Option 1: Conduct the first of two public hearings and announce that the second and final public hearing will be held on March 22, 1999 at 6:00 p.m.

20. PUBLIC HEARING – PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7 OF THE CODE OF LAWS, RELATING TO SHERIFF’S AND DEPUTY SHERIFF’S BONDS

Pursuant to the following legal advertisement, a public hearing was conducted on a proposed ordinance that provides for sheriff’s public official bond and blanket deputy sheriffs’ bonds be conditioned upon the faithful discharge of the duties of the office. (During the 1998 legislative session, Florida lawmakers amended Section 30.02 and 30.09, Florida Statutes and it now provides that the performance bonds are required only if the County passes an ordinance governing the bonds.)

Commissioner Host moved, duly seconded by Commissioner Maloy and carried unanimously, approve Option 1: Conduct public hearing, adopt the proposed ordinance as presented (Leon County Ordinance Number 99-07 and adopt the proposed resolution (R99- ) setting the bond amounts:

(The County Attorney advised that the bond amount could be changed by adoption of a resolution, which would not require a public hearing and would be placed on consent.)

 

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR

Add-on: Solid Waste Disposal: County Administrator Alam referenced the attached letter from Commissioner Lightsey regarding solid waste disposal services. Mr. Alam explained that currently tipping fees are $29 per ton, which is one of the lowest in the state. He referred to the agenda material and stated that if the County builds a transfer station by using their reserve funds, the tipping fee would be 26.70; if the County does not use their reserve funds and borrows money to build the transfer station, the tipping fees would be $28.05. Mr. Alam explained that Commissioner Lightsey has indicated the County’s tipping fee should be no more than $26.75. Mr. Alam circulated a copy of a newspaper article on this issue and stated that statements are erroneous and the figures are inaccurate. He also referred to agenda material showing the landfill fund balance received from the Clerk’s Finance Office, and stated that all the information has been provided to the City Commission. It was noted that the City Commission’s upcoming agenda item recommends that unless the County agrees to a tipping fee of $26.75 or $27.50 including household waste, and unless the County agrees to take a loan to build the transfer station instead of using the reserve funds, the City would build its own solid waste transfer station.

Commissioner Host stated that, under the Statutes, the County retains control of the waste stream and it is important that the county have charge of what goes into the waste stream in a transfer mode since it would be necessary to cull certain items such as recyclables, tires, and hazardous materials. Commissioner Host suggested that another issue involves scheduling with the short haul and long haul truck operators. Commissioner Host advised that under the contract that has been negotiated, the tipping fees would be lowered and if the City does not want to be a customer of the County in the solid waste business, then they can pursue something different, although it would be unfortunate for the community. He further stated that the matter of whether or not there are dollars in the enterprise fund that belong to the City is a spurious issue that he does not intend to discuss. The Board indicated concern that the newspaper article contained inaccuracies.

It was the consensus of the Board to move forward on the issue. The Board authorized the County Administrator and the Solid Waste Director to attend the City Commission meeting tomorrow and show them the numbers, which the County is proposing.

Discussion then focused on emergency capacity being used up at the landfill and additional costs to taxpayers if the City pursues privatization of separate solid waste disposal services. Commissioner Proctor indicated that these issues may be cause for seeking injunctive relief and suggested that the County be proactive in this effort. The Board suggested that it would be appropriate to wait for the City’s vote on this issue.

CITIZENS TO BE HEARD:

Ms. Clifton Lewis, 3117 Okeeheepkee Road, appeared and stated that the Canopy Tree Road discussion was interesting and she was disappointed that the tree replanting has not moved along. She suggested that citizens be allowed to participate in tree replantings by donating trees, and recommended a citizens group be formed for this endeavor. Ms. Lewis also invited Commissioners to attend and participate in the May Day Celebration on May 1st in the May Oak (Lewis) Park between Gadsden and Calhoun Streets. She also noted that World Law Day will also be celebrated. Ms. Lewis will contact the County Administrator regarding the County’s participation.

Mrs. Lewis inquired about the process for designation of a canopy road. County Administrator Alam explained that if the road is outside the City limits, the request would be made to the County Commission; if the road is inside the city limits, the request would need to go to both Commissions.

DISCUSSION ITEMS BY COMMISSIONERS

COMMISSIONER RACKLEFF:

  1. Requested that direction be given to staff to continue pursuing federal funding for a study of the water quality of upper Lake Lafayette, specifically the sinkhole. Commissioner Rackleff explained that Congressman Boyd’s Legislative Director advised him that funds may be earmarked in the appropriations bill for such a study. Commissioner Rackleff stated that, in a sense, this is separate from the Weems Pond/Mahan Drive widening situation and he wanted to make it clear that he is de-coupling these two issues, although he would like to see information from FDOT about the dispute and the alternatives. The Board agreed with submission of a letter of request for funds for the study as identified by Commissioner Rackleff.

 

 

COMMISSIONER MALOY:

  1. Referred to item 8 "Ratification of Action Taken on Federal and State Lobbying Initiatives," and stated that in the year 2000, the County will have a minimum of 75 new legislators and more issues will be staff-driven. Commissioner Maloy stated that the Commerce Group has done an outstanding job in lobbying for the County, and that because of new dynamics at the Legislature, it may be beneficial for the County to look at different types of groups to represent the County and possibly consider using a team approach. In a related issue, Chairman Thaell advised that he met with Speaker Thrasher and Dean of the Senate W. D. Childers last week with the lobbyist and they went through the County’s legislative priorities.
  2. Commissioner Proctor inquired about funding for construction of Crawfordville Road. The Board advised that the million dollars for this effort was in the Governor’s budget.

    COMMISSIONER SAULS:

    a. Referred to a request from the Lee Park Sports Youth Program requesting financial assistance in the amount of $500 for 60+ youths. The Board concurred with the request and advised that it previously agreed to fund $500 to the first ten youth teams that are brought forward.

  3. Commissioner Sauls reported that she received a call from Mr. Dorman Lewis from Gulf Coast Lumber in Woodville who voiced concern that he could not use his adjoining lot to expand his current business. She explained that there is a road that runs into Woodville Highway that splits his property and, apparently, prohibits him from constructing a pole barn- type storage facility. She requested that staff determine what can be done to assist him.

COMMISSIONER WINCHESTER:

  1. Advised that he received a request from a junior major league team for $500 and stated that the team indicated that they would name the team after their sponsor. The Board advised that it previously agreed to fund $500 to the first ten youth teams that are brought forward and indicated concurrence with this request.
  2. Circulated a pamphlet on "Leadership on Watershed Management" that he received at the NACO Conference.
  3. Reported that he met with Congressman Boyd and they discussed the possibility of conducting a community summit to discuss community issues and could involve the universities, Chambers of Commerce, the City, the County, the State, and United Way.

COMMISSIONER PROCTOR:

Thanked Mr. Lee Hartsfield, Community Development/GEM, for his outstanding comments made recently in Washington, D.C. regarding stormwater issues.

COMMISSIONER HOST:

  1. Reported that at the NACO conference he picked up a copy of "Streamlining the Nations Building Regulatory Process" and would make it available for staff’s use.
  2. Congratulated the men and women of the FAMU Basketball Team and wished them luck during the upcoming games.

CHAIRMAN THAELL:

  1. Asked if Commissioners Winchester and Proctor had their appointments to the Census Count Committee, noting that a letter was received indicating that the County was rather slow in making their appointments. Commissioner Winchester appointed Dr. Anthony Viegbesie, John Ciapetta, and Andrea Polk-Stevenson. Commissioner Proctor advised that he would submit his appointments next week.
  2. Reported that he received a letter from Jerry Highland, County Commissioner in Alexandria, Virginia. Chairman Thaell reported that Commissioner Highland is working with NACO Financial Services Center which is a group that buys office supplies, etc., through NACO, and he had noticed a savings last year of over $800,000. The Chairman circulated information and requested that staff provide additional information.
  3. Reported that there was a good article in the Tallahassee Democrat Business section on the goal of creating urban jobs, and circulated it to the Board.
  4. Chairman Thaell stated that approximately one month ago he reported that Miccosukee Hills obtained a second 20-year mortgage from Farmers Home Administration. He stated that the owners (principles) of Miccosukee Hills own about nine more acres in the same proximity on Miccosukee Road and are interested in doing a HUD 202 Elderly Program (elderly subsidized housing) which would result in another 160 units. Chairman Thaell stated that there is approximately $521 million in the HUD budget this year and requested that the County’s grant coordinator assist them in writing a proposal. The Board concurred.


There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 7:59 p.m.

APPROVED:_________________

Cliff Thaell

Chairman

 

 

 

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

 

 

 

____________________________

Clerk of the Circuit Court