HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Workshop_08/09/2005MINUTES OF THE
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
VILLAGE COUNCIL BUDGET PLANNING WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2005
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The Village of Tequesta Village Council held a Village Council Budget Planning
Workshop meeting at the Tequesta Recreation Center, 399 Seabrook Road,
Tequesta, Florida, on Tuesday, August 9, 2005. The meeting was called to order
at 10:15 A.M. by Mayor Humpage. A roll call was taken by Village Clerk Gwen
Carlisle. The following elected officials were present: Mayor Jim Humpage, Vice
Mayor Pat Watkins, Councilmember Geraldine Genco, Councilmember Edward
D. Resnik; and Councilmember Tom Paterno. Also in attendance were Village
Manager Michael R. Couzzo, Jr., Village Clerk Gwen Carlisle, and Department
Heads.
II. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION:
Councilmember Genco moved approval of the agenda as submitted. Vice
Mayor Watkins seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous 5-0 vote.
• III. REVIEW OF THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FY 2005-2006
Mayor Humpage asked if the Council wanted to review the proposed budget page
by page or isolate particular areas, such as discuss revenue, then expenditures,
then go through the departments; and if anyone had an item under revenues the
Council could discuss that particular item and if the other items were in order,
they could move on. Councilmember Resnik responded he would like to go
through the major elements to see if there were any questions, because each
member of the Council had gone through it individually with the Village Manager
and this was a session just to get everybody together to see they were on the same
page.
Mayor Humpage referred to page 3, and reviewed the pie chart for revenues. The
major revenue source was ad valorem taxes of $5,850,000, representing 57% of
the budget's appropriated fund balance. Councilmember Genco commented she
looked at general fund revenues and the amount of appropriated fund balance was
3.1% and interfund transfers were 4%; the 3% and 4% were equivalent to the
COLA and merit increases on an annual basis. So she was thinking in order for
the Village to stay flat on COLA, merit, and operations expenses, they would
have to take the money out of other areas this year. Finance Director Forsythe
responded that the interfund transfers in came from the IBR, which had revenues
that really should go into the general fund, but because the Village had a bond it
• was required to be set aside to pay for the bond, all those general fund revenues
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had to be run through the IBR fund-the 101 fund-and whatever was left over at
the end of the year came back to the general fund. Therefore, that truly was an
ongoing revenue source. Director Forsythe explained that when that bond was
done, those revenues would be brought directly into the general fund. The
appropriated fund balance was being used this year because there had been a large
amount of capital projects transferring out, which were also one-time expenses.
Mayor Humpage commented on page 3 each one of the funds was shown, broken
down into line items. Councilmember Paterno asked if licenses and permits were
expected to stay at the level shown in the future. The Village Manager responded
that he believed they were high this year. Community Development Director Jeff
Newell commented that he expected those to stay high for the next two years and
then to drop. Councilmember Paterno commented that should be kept in mind.
Mr. Newell confirmed that the Crossings and Casa del Sol were included.
Mayor Humpage directed attention to page 1 of the budget worksheet, and
pointed out that the line item for ad valorem was the largest increase in revenue.
The 15% increase imposed by the county would not affect residential property
that was limited to a 3% increase per year. Councilmember Genco referred to
page 2, intergovernmental revenues, state revenue sharing proceeds, and local
half-cent sales tax, and asked for projections on those for the next five years-
• whether they were anticipated to increase or decrease. Accounting Manager
Patrice Maqueda reported the only information she had on that came out on an
annual basis and her understanding from the State revenue agent was as the
county continued to grow and the Village did not, the Village would get a smaller
and smaller share of the county's portion. Councilmember Paterno asked if the
Village got a portion of the State sales tax generated within the Village, to which
the response was, not directly. Councilmember Paterno asked if the potential of
development with PCD's, bringing about less commercial, would have a negative
effect as far as any revenues in the future from sales tax--if the Village ended up
eliminating a bunch of commercial properties that generated sales. Finance
Director Forsythe's answer was no, because it was based on a proportional share;
the county got the sales tax and it was divided among the municipalities based on
population. During ensuing discussion, Mayor Humpage pointed out that any
money lost on PCD's would be made up by ad valorem. Councilmember Paterno
commented the potential cost to the Village to provide services would be more.
Councilmember Paterno referred to page 4 under special truck permits of $2,000,
stating he had spoken to the Village Manager in reference to increasing revenues
on that, based on entering in to Turtle Creek. He felt the fee should be higher and
should be per truck, because there were a lot of trucks going in there for which the
Village was not getting revenue. Village Manager Couzzo responded a resolution
would be brought to the Council for their consideration, amending the existing
• resolution to raise the rate and to put it on a per vehicle basis. It was clarified
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there were three things that should be looked at-the cost of a permit, per truck or
per trip as it was currently, and if concurrency applied. Ensuing discussion
included Rinker trucks and the 800 trucks noted in Jupiter's June survey which
were involved in the DiVosta project. Councilmember Genco suggested
addressing the philosophy of this issue at a Council meeting, noting this seemed
to be an azea where revenue could be increased. Mayor Humpage suggested
discussion at a workshop. Councilmember Genco requested that Village Clerk
Carlisle mark this item for follow-up.
Mayor Humpage directed attention to the pie chart for expenditures on page 4.
Public Safety was the largest section. Other sections included general
government, debt service for the general fund, transfers out, and leisure services.
On the next page increases and decreases were spelled out. Councilmember
Genco noted one column included all the overtime, so false proportions were
being given. Councilmember Genco cautioned that one should look at the prior
year actual, current yeaz 2005 estimated, to get an idea of what should be
proposed. There had been a huge increase over the past two years of 21%-22%
in expenditures. Councilmember Genco requested the individual items be looked
at, and explained that each department had been showing legal expenses and
when they were all added up, legal expenses were very high. This yeaz legal
expenses were being shown as $140,000 total. Village Manager Couzzo clarified
• that Utilities had a small legal budget, as did P&Z, and the $140,000 would take
caze of everybody in the general fund. Councilmember Resnik commented there
was a total of $160,000 for legal expenses in the budget; the $140,000 was in the
general fund and there was also $20,000 in Utilities and another fund. It was
noted this was meant to be a snapshot, and the Village Manager also commented
that accounting standards changed and the Village needed to be current with the
accounting standazds. It was very hard to compare to two or three years ago when
things were reported differently. Councilmember Resnik commented he looked at
the bottom line, which indicated there were less expenditures this yeaz. Finance
Director Forsythe commented that interfund transfers could really skew the
percentages, because that was the amount transferred out. Ms. Forsythe explained
that the general fund could exist without any of the other intergovernmental
funds, but those funds could not exist without the general fund, so that was the
operating fund. It was broken out sometimes, like special revenue, because there
was a bond that required that be done; or capital projects, to see in one place how
much was being spent on capital projects, or capital improvements. She had put
the funds all together because they, were all broken out from the same operating
account. The increase for all the funds together was .85% or $101,113 from the
prior year and that got rid of the effect of sending money in between the different
funds which resulted in a skewed percentage. Finance Director Forsythe reported
that in the prior year $2.9 million was sent to capital projects because the
municipal center was funded then with the intent to finish it this year. Because
• that had not come about, this year only $812,000 had been transferred out and
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• although it looked like an expense it really was not, because the money had just
been moved. That had to be' taken out and the amount that was being
appropriated also had to be taken out to get a true picture. Councilmember Genco
clarified with Finance Director Forsythe that there was an approximately $1.5
million increase, a 20% increase in spending over last year taking out the capital
project of $2.9 million. Finance Director Forsythe explained that it was even
more than that since the $812,000 was only capital projects, not the capital being
kept in the general fund to buy other things, so there were even more one-time
expenditures. Councilmember Genco noted the increase in spending over last
year was then probably closer to 25%. Capital projects were probably 7-1/2% or
8%. Finance Director Forsythe reported $216,960 was still sitting in capital and
would be used to pay for code enforcement, police, fire, etc., so if it were added
back to the $812,000 for capital projects, there would be a total of a million in
capital and one-time expenditure. Councilmember Resnik commented the total
combined budget was $18 million, which was hard to see because all the funds
must be added up.
Mayor Humpage moved to the next section, General Government. Village
Manager Couzzo commented he had prepared the Council's budget, and asked if
they wanted to make any changes, such as to contributions and donations.
Councilmember Genco commented she would like to know in time before the end
• of the year to be able to transfer out the amounts remaining for Council operating
expenditures into grants and aid, and they might want to make a contribution to
the community out of that. Village Manager Couzzo responded that was fine, and
if Council wanted to make a final appropriation they could do so in September.
The Manager's budget was reviewed. The amounts for pension contribution and
health insurance were questioned. The increase in pension contribution was
attributed to a full year for Anne Koch, who had not been employed for a full year
at this point. Health insurance had been increased 15%, however, Councilmember
Genco asked that that stay the same as last yeaz in case there was no increase in
premiums, and if there was an increase later to change it then. Village Manager
Couzzo explained if an employee left, it was unknown who would replace them,
and described as an example Mr. Knapp, who left and had been single, so his
insurance had been at the single rate. The calculations to cover his replacement
were done at the worst case scenario, the employee and family. If he were
replaced by another single person, there would be a savings from the calculated
amount. Councilmember Genco commented by adding 15% the Village would
be putting information out to the insurance company that there would be no
problem raising the premiums. Councilmember Paterno commented that the
process to hire another firefighter would take some time, so that the calculation
could remain as a single person and if it took four weeks to re-hire, that would
accumulate, so that there would not be a shortage if the new person who came on
• needed employee and family coverage. Councilmember Paterno also expressed
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concern that changing the calculation would accumulate funds so that looking at
the budget one would think there was too much money in that account and those
funds might be moved to pay for something else. Finance Director Forsythe
suggested that throughout the yeaz when someone left, and the health insurance
came in for zero that it be appropriated and taken out of the budget so that nobody
could spend it. Village Manager Couzzo commented that could certainly be done.
Councilmember Genco commented she was of the school that you never show
anybody your cards, and she did not like showing people that the Village had up
to 15% in their budget to take caze of extra insurance premiums. If the cost were
kept at zero or close to zero for the budget, the money would be in the Village's
savings account and nobody would know how willing the Village was to negotiate
on the premium. Councilmember Genco expressed her opinion that if the budget
were managed that way, knowing there was not all this extra movement, and 15%
on a Village-wide basis was probably $100,000 and change. Village Manager
Couzzo explained that the budget process took 3-4 months; the carriers did not
know what the rates would be, so they were telling the Village what to expect,
and these were just estimates but gave an idea what was going on. Vice Mayor
Watkins commented this was a work in process, and she wanted a reasonable
budget but did not favor setting goals on the least amount. Councilmember
Genco commented a reasonable number for this would be zero. Village Manager
Couzzo responded, if you could take something like health insurance and say
• there had been a historical trend or an expectation that it would stay close to
COLA; however that had not been true. Historically increases had been 15% to
20% over the past five yeazs. An exact number could not be given.
Councilmember Genco commented that using a trend, you looked at prior yeaz
actual, estimated total this yeaz, and what was being shown as the estimated total
for next year. Mayor Humpage commented the insurance people did not know
what the Village budgeted. Councilmember Paterno commented the way to do
this was to come up with a percentage and apply it, because sometimes it was
going to go from a single person to a married person and other times it was going
to go from a married person to a single person, so it should average out to be
somewhere less than the maximum. Mayor Humpage concluded it should be in
the middle. The Village Manager explained that the Finance Department was
always going to be conservative in order to protect the Village. Councihnember
Genco commented since we knew we had the money in a savings account, why
not be more realistic. Finance Director Forsythe responded it could be done any
way the Council wanted-the Finance Department did it this way because it was
the worst case scenario and they were allocating that money because if it looked
like there was $100,000 extra it might get spent. The Village Manager explained
the difficulty in trying to project for the future. Councilmember Genco stated her
general comment would be since there was a 21 % increase across the board for all
insurance, she thought that could be lowered.
•
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Consensus of Council was to change the 15% increase for health insurance to
7.5%. Councilmember Resnik asked what the significance of that change would
be to the dollazs in the budget. Village Manager Couzzo explained that when that
change was applied, there would be $50,000 that was not appropriated towazd an
expense, so now revenues would exceed expenditures by $50,000. Mayor
Humpage stated, put it into the savings account, and that it could be done in other
accounts. Finance Director Forsythe commented the figure would be about
$45,000. Discussion ensued. The Village Manager advised if it was Council
direction, the appropriation in fund balance would be reduced, and runs would be
done that afternoon so they could see it. The Mayor commented they could be
wrong in this and in other accounts also, but hoped not, and there would have a
little more in savings.
The meeting was recessed at 11:20 a.m. Following a short break, the meeting
reconvened at 11:34 a.m.
Mayor Humpage confirmed with Council that they were okay with the additions
in-the Manager's budget. Councilmember Paterno mentioned he believed funds
needed to be dedicated to training. Village Manager Couzzo responded that
training had been expanded this yeaz for all of the departments, but much more
was needed.
•
Assistant Village Manager Gazlo presented the Human Resources budget, and
explained that the staffing represented proposed transitioning of an employee to
HR from Customer Service in the Finance Department in what was actually now a
Utilities position. This person would provide assistance to Human Resources and
the Administration Office, and also provide assistance to the Village Clerk in
helping with documents, transcription of minutes, and a lot of other things the
Village Clerk needed. This would eliminate the need for apart-time position to
help the Clerk. This person would also assist throughout the Village, since many
times the HR office was requested to provide assistance in other departments
when a sudden shortage arose. It would really be amulti-purpose position that
was reflected in the HR budget. Councilmember Genco questioned if Dan
Gallagher was the pazt-time person. Assistant Manager Garlo responded that Dan
was assigned to risk management and his hours were reduced in this budget, from
the current 20 hours per week to 12. Robbie Russo was Mr. Gazlo's
Administrative Assistant and did the majority of the day-to-day Human Resources
personnel responsibilities, which was a lot. Looking at the total picture, it had
been felt that this transition would serve all the needs collectively of
Administration. Dan's hours would be changed so that he would work 4 hours,
three days a week, which would provide continuity. 50% of the transition was
currently intended to provide help for the Village Clerk. Village Manager Couzzo
noted there had been apart-time position in the Village Clerk's budget, which was
able to be eliminated when this transitioning concept came about.
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•
Councilmember Genco asked if there was more help, why Contractual Services
was going up, to which Village Manager Couzzo responded that was for Paula
Knight, who was providing training. There could also be a need for special
consulting services.
Village Clerk Carlisle noted the biggest increase in her budget was for capital
projects-consisting of the proposed document imaging system, estimated at
$50,000 to $55,000. Software had been increased to $1,000 with the goal of
having all of the agenda backup items on the website. Going into the new Village
Hall, software for the sound system to record directly to .WAV files would be
needed. There had been no Advertising and Promotion budget for the Clerk's
office, so Ms. Carlisle had transferred $500 this year and asked for $1,000 for
next year. Those were the two major increases. Legal advertising and travel and
per diem costs should go down. A comparison of the major imaging systems
who had been contacted had been done-four would service the Village's needs
and two would not. The system would be placed into the new Village Hall, but
could be started by getting the scanner and beginning the up-front work. Village
Clerk Carlisle explained the system would be networked into Fire and Police in
their building. In this proposal she would like them to be able to read the
documents put into the system by the Clerk and Administration, and eventually
• for everything to be on the same network, to be viewed according to security
levels. Depending on the system, each read-only license would cost between
$200-$300; to read and write would cost approximately $2,000 per license. To
place everything on the website for everyone to view the imaging system would
incur additional cost over the $55,000. Security levels would allow the public to
see only what they needed to see, but staff would be able to use it with web
access. This would probably be an additional $30,000. In response to whether
Finance Department information could be placed on the system, Ms. Carlisle
responded that initially some APs could be scanned; an additional feature would
allow cold reports to go directly from their system into the imaging system, which
would cost approximately $10,000. The proposal included the Clerk's office, the
Village Manager's office, HR, and Community Development. Community
Development would have a read and write license, and would be able to use the
scanner themselves. Village Clerk Carlisle explained that the transition person
Assistant Manager Garlo had spoken about could do scanning, beginning with
minutes and resolutions, then HR records, and when Community Development
was ready to begin scanning it was hoped that the permit clerk would be able to
do that. The proposal in the Clerk's budget included two high-speed scanners,
one for the Clerk's office and one for Fire and Police; however, the second one
could be placed in Community Development initially to get their documents into
the system first. The plan was to scan anything with a retention time of over ten
years-vital records. New documents would be scanned in day one. The Village
Clerk explained that planning for the future depended on how the system was
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developed, and she anticipated $5,000 for the next year just for the Village
Clerk's office. If Councilmembers were given laptops they could access the
system to do a search, since there would be a network connection in the Council
Chambers. Village Manager Couzzo commented laptops were included in the
computer budget for Village Hall.
Finance Director JoAnn Forsythe advised that the Finance Department budget
really had not changed, except 3% COLA and merit increases, and they had given
up their part-time position. Councilmember Paterno or Mayor Humpage asked
how things would get done when the Finance Department was so underwater
already. Finance Director Forsythe noted things could get accomplished but
things would have to slow down, and the ads for apart-time person had yielded
no response. Assistant Manager Gazlo explained that the plan was to replace a
person in customer service with someone who could do more, and help Finance.
Mayor Humpage asked about hiring afull-time person, to which Ms. Forsythe
responded they got people and trained them and then they left, so it was always
just the three of them, and they were always jumping in and doing other positions.
Now a good AP person had just started but it would take awhile for her to get up
to speed; and if they could get another good person in customer service, once they
were trained on billing they could have them take over. The customer service
supervisor was now being trained to do payroll. All were cross-trained. Director
Forsythe confirmed that the one customer service person that was coming out did
nothing for Finance, but was in water distribution. They had been able to get a
part-time Finance person for only a few weeks. Mayor Humpage asked if the
Council was making an error and if they should add a Finance person now.
Finance Director Forsythe commented it had been difficult and she had weighed
the difference in increasing everyone's salayy so she could keep them, or if an
extra person was needed. Finance Director Forsythe commented she was a CPA
and Patrice was a certified governmental finance officer and they had to take 40
hours a year of training to keep those titles. Finance Director Forsythe explained
the Council saw what Finance was doing, but did not see what they were not
doing-they constantly had to put things aside to do what they were asked to do.
Councihnember Genco asked if outsourcing items such as water billings had been
considered. Ms. Forsythe explained that the problem was not on the water billing
side, it was on the accounting side. Discussion ensued. Ms. Forsythe agreed that
outsourcing would free up two people; however, that would not help the
Accounting Manager, whose time was on the accounting end and not billing.
Councihnember Genco noted that might be worth looking at in terms of cost.
Director Forsythe explained that AP personnel only lasted about seven months,
and since no one applied last time they had raised the salary and then had three
applicants. Raising salaries to attract and keep competent personnel was
discussed. Councilmember Paterno noted that accounting was difficult and
salaries were on the low side for the work being done. Councilmember Paterno
• commented time was lost in training people, and suggested some type of retention
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incentive. Ms. Maqueda's opinion was that her rate of pay could be increased but
she would almost rather not have an increase and have staff, to be able to handle
the work. Councilmember Paterno suggested to get the right person, pay more,
and hopefully they would stay. Finance Director Forsythe explained people were
cross trained. Village Manager Couzzo explained that there had been apart-time
person for a short time and that position was no longer in this budget. Assistant
Village Manager Garlo advised he and the Manager had looked at this situation
and it was about having the right people and having the responsibilities allocated
in the most efficient possible way, which optimistically was the current situation,
so things should improve. Mayor Humpage commented there still was a problem
in that the Finance Director and her employees could not even taken their
vacations. Manager Couzzo commented that was not an isolated situation-other
departments had the same problems, and it was a balancing act to get the right
people. Councilmember Paterno suggested that people with accounting degrees
probably did not want to do all the other work that they felt others should be
doing, and that was a reason for not staying. Finance Director Forsythe
responded there were only two people with accounting degrees, and the rest were
clerks. She was pushing Michelle to get her degree. AP was very demanding
because they had to deal with all the departments; it should be aone-week job and
then have the next week for that person to do other things, but that had not
worked out. If it was just a matter of data entry and invoices that were all signed
off it would work. Finance Director Forsythe explained there was a PO for
everything over $1,000, but money was not always there and had to be
transferred, and there was a lot of work before they could even get to the PO. The
managers did the work to the best of their ability and signed off, but then Finance
had to verify everything. The Vice Mayor asked what the answer was, to which
Ms. Forsythe responded they had never had two of the positions filled with
someone at a level who could do the extra work, and she did not know if giving
her staff more money would make them stay or if they had to get another person.
Ms. Maqueda commented she would almost forgo her merit increase to get
another person. Councilmember Genco requested taking a look at outsourcing
water billings and transfemng that position into Finance. If that did not work
then come back with a position request. Councilmember Paterno suggested not
having water customers come to pay bills to lessen some of the work; Finance
Director Forsythe explained that most of the people who came to billing were
there with problems and needed help, not just to pay their bill.
The meeting adjourned for lunch.
Village Manager Couzzo reviewed the legal budget. Ms. Forsythe recapped the
$151,000 in the general fund. The total budgeted government-wide for legal was
$160,000. Councilmember Paterno suggested not having the Village Attorney at
every meeting. Village Manager Couzzo indicated he would notify Council in
• advance when he believed it was not necessary for the attorney to attend a
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meeting. Councilmember Genco confirmed with the manager that the attorney for
the pension boards was not included. Councilmember Genco asked if any thought
had been given to getting a paralegal. Village Manager Couzzo responded that
could be done but would not provide the same depth as an attorney, and senior
staff tried to resolve issues that would be on that level and very seldom went to
Attorney Hawkins with such issues. Council member Genco noted the Village
was getting to a point where they could hire an attorney. The Manager advised if
an attorney was hired the Village would have to pay salary, benefits, a clerical
person or secretary, and/or maybe a paralegal, and then they would go outside for
specialized legal services, which would increase costs. Council member Paterno
suggested thinking of ways to get more production out of the attorneys rather than
going to a paralegal who would take twice as long to do the same work, or have to
give it to someone else. The charge from Jones Foster was $200 per hour, while
their private rate was $350. Council member Genco asked about bidding out
services. The Village Manager responded that could be done, but how would
their abilities be determined if you were basing it on getting someone at $150 per
hour. Council member Genco commented the RFP would have requirements.
Village Manager Couzzo commented that as Mr. Paterno had commented in the
past, were you any better off to get someone at $100 an hour who took two hours
to do the same work that someone charging $200 an hour could accomplish in one
hour. Council member Genco commented she saw no cost effectiveness for the
Village from what the firm charged other people, and while the Village was
getting the benefit of a commercial rate of $200 versus a private rate of $350, if
the Village asked them to research something they had already researched for
somebody else, the Village was charged full rate. Vice Mayor Watkins
commented the Village was bound to have savings on time since the attorneys had
been with the Village for so many years. Discussion ensued, with the
recommendation to cut demand for services. Village Manager Couzzo explained
that had been done to a great extent-staff did not contact the lawyers without
coming through him. Under the contract with Attorney Hawkins if conversation
was under 15 minutes there was no cost at all, which was going to reduce the
total, and the Village was going to try to stay away from litigation, which would
hopefully bring the total down. The Village Manager reported staff did a lot of
research on their own. Councilmember Genco stated she thought it would be
interesting to put out feelers to find out what else was out there, and that the
budget number was realistic based on past experience; however, she was hearing
over and over again that the legal expenses were too high, so she would like to
know for herself how competitive the cost was. Mayor Humpage commented in
checking with other municipalities, the Village's legal expenditures were well
below any of the surrounding municipalities at $100,000 compared to some with
$500,000. Mayor Humpage commented the Village had control of some legal
expenses but not over things like the possible issue with Jupiter Inlet Colony
where the Village would be a client. Council member Paterno commented he
• would like to keep legal costs as low as possible, he did not think they were
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exorbitant, but he would like to see the Village make a definitive decision more
often. Village Manager Couzzo advised that now the relationship with Attorney
Hawkins was such that he asked if the manager wanted him to pursue an issue,
and many times was told no. Council member Genco commented on charges for
general council meetings. Council member Paterno commented, ask anexpert-
if the person you asked had to ask someone else, that was not an expert. Village
Manager Couzzo commented staff would try to reduce the costs. Council
member Genco noted attorney general opinions were on the Internet the Village
Manager commented that was their opinion. Council member Paterno
commented, if the attorney did not know an answer they should know where to
get it. Councilmember Genco commented Attorney Hawkins did not know the
answer to the bankruptcy question she asked regazding the Siegel case and it took
2 hours, but Attorney Geddes knew the answer. The Village Manager commented
that was an example of 2 hours at $200 versus 15 minutes at $450. Council
member Paterno commented getting a quick answer was sometimes more
valuable so the issue did not have to wait until the next meeting. Village Manager
Couzzo indicated the Village had several attorneys who specialized in different
fields, such as a labor attorney who could get the job done quickly. Village
Manager Couzzo indicated staff would continue to look at this issue.
Community Development Director Jeff Newell advised the full-time position of
Village Planner in 150 Planning had been eliminated and the responsibilities
divided, with the developmental review and associated processes transferred to
the Director in Department 180. The planning consultant would continue to be
retained with one specific purpose--comprehensive plan maintenance and
changes. The $50,000 in planning services was budgeted for 2007 when the State
EAR report was required. That report alone would cost approximately $20,000.
Mr. Newell commented he expected the budgeted amount for 2008 to come down
to azound $40,000. Mr. Newell confirmed the outsourcing was to JLH. Council
member Paterno noted the budget for planning and the director without code
enforcement had increased $50,000 over the prior year. Mr. Newell explained
that a building permit technician was going to be added. Discussion ensued. The
Village Manager advised that the difference in real dollazs was $28,000. The
savings from eliminating the full-time planner was about $45,000, but the
consultant was being increased by about $28,000, so the difference was plus
$17,000; then the building permit technician and benefits on the operating
expenses which went to the other side were at about $30,000. It was noted it was
really about $50,000 increase. Mr. Newell explained that miscellaneous planning
services were up, and in 2007 a drop from $50,000 to $40,000 was expected.
Council member Paterno noted that was still more than current. Assistant Village
Manager Garlo asked if Mr. Newell had a specific list that the consultant was
responsible for, to which Mr. Newell responded, yes. Mr. Newell explained that
in shifting responsibilities the department was going back to what it should be,
and some of the Director's responsibilities would be shifted to the building permit
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• technician, allowing the Director to perform the duties he was really supposed to
be doing according to the Village code. Mayor Humpage asked where the money
that was spent for Contract and Inspections was shown; Mr. Newell advised that
was in 180.
The meeting recessed at 12:45 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.
Director of Community Development Jeff Newell recapped in Building & Zoning
180 which normally had two employees would now have three with shifting of
responsibilities-the Director who was the Building Official, the Building Permit
Technician, and the Department Secretary. Current duties of the Building Official
of plan review, inputting all information on permitting into the database, and
issuing permits would be shifted to the Building Permit Technician. The
Building Official would do residential inspections, handling administrative duties
of the department, and any developmental reviews that are in process. The
building permit technician would be the person who would track the permitting
process from beginning to end, and would be responsible for occupational and
contractor licensing. The department secretary would be responsible for all
secretarial functions of the department. Mr. Newell explained that under the
inspection services contract with Hybrid the department had been paying for a
block of time, whether there was one inspection or ten in a day, and that had been
• changed to be per inspection at a cost of $50 each. Mr. Newell was planning to
use Hybrid for large projects such as the Crossings, Casa del Sol, etc., and he was
planning to do the residential inspections himself. Next year he expected those
costs to be significantly lower. Mayor Humpage asked what would be done when
a developer required an inspector on site. Mr. Newell explained that he had the
option to add that, and to have the reports sent to him. Not all developers did that,
some preferred to use outside inspectors, and that was included in the inspection
services contract. Since approximately half of the inspections were residential,
that figure was expected to drop substantially, but the figure had been left the
same as last year. Discussion ensued. The figure for inspection services was
dropped from $47,000 to $25,000 with Mr. Newell agreeing on the condition that
when he had to come back to ask for more money he would have no trouble.
Village Manager Couzzo responded, so long as he had an explanation. Personnel
for the department was clarified for Council member Genco. Council member
Paterno asked how many cell phones the department paid for, to which Mr.
Newell responded there were three-lie had one, Maureen had one that Hybrid
called in on, and David Cooper in Code Enforcement had the other one, and they
were with Nextel. Council member Paterno commented Metro PCS charges were
limited to $40 a month. Mayor Humpage reported his bill for employee cell
phones had been $480 a month and when he switched to Nextel it became $150.
Russell White reported his department paid $40 a month apiece; Chief Weinand
reported the fire department's phones were $35 a month and the employees paid
overages for personal use. Conversation ensued with the different departments
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reporting the number of phones they had, which Village Manager Couzzo added
and came to a total of 38.
Mayor Humpage confirmed with the Village Manager that when they were
amending the budgets that the number 523.101 came out to would be reflected in
everybody's budget, so that savings would be seen throughout the budget.
Village Manager Couzzo explained that column 8 was the Council's column and
was now labeled proposed, and after today the budget would be amended and the
Council would see the differential between what had been proposed and the new
numbers.
Mr. Newell introduced David Cooper, Code Enforcement Officer, to the Council.
181 Code Compliance was reviewed by Mr. Newell. Code enforcement had been
moved from the police department back to Community Development, and the
budget included a softwaze program which was excellent for tracking citations, a
new computer, and laptop. Council member Genco questioned 545.300 which
showed $6,400 for operations and came from the risk manager, and included caz
insurance, and workers comp insurance. Council member Genco felt that number
was too high; Village Manager Couzzo responded that would be checked and the
number adjusted.
160 was described by the Village Manager as acatch-all for items not assigned to
d fi
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i
nance,
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any particular department. Communications at $9,600
administration, HR, and clerk. Electronic communications included Internet and
BellSouth. Council member Paterno commented with a new antenna the charge
for DSL could be eliminated next yeaz. The Mayor indicated that might save
$300-$400. Council member Genco asked about 534.300, which the Village
Manager advised was for the public affairs consultant, Jack Cory; 515.103 was
bonus and was in administration only. Mr. Cory's $32,000 was split between this
budget ($28,500) and water ($8,000). Village Manager Couzzo reported that
549.300 Other Miscellaneous Charges included many things from the plaque for
Mr. von Frank to the cookies served today. The proposed amount was the same
as in last year's original budget. Council member Paterno proposed a 4% increase
only; Councilmember Genco commented that 4-1/2 % or $24,500 was reasonable.
Council member Genco asked if there would be changes to the newsletter. Vice
Mayor Watkins asked why it was so glossy. Assistant Manager Garlo commented
Jupiter had copied the look, and that the changes were the inserts-one had
magnets, etc. Council member Paterno asked about an e-mail version possibly
more often than the 6 times a yeaz. Village Manager Couzzo suggested putting an
item in the newsletter asking people if they would prefer to receive it by a-mail,
and that would cut production and mailing costs, and they could send the Village
their a-mail address and be sent the newsletter by a-mail. This could be
coordinated with customer service in Utilities so when someone moved and
• cancelled their utility service, they could be contacted to see if they still wanted
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
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the newsletter. Discussion resulted in consensus to send the newsletter only to
Tequesta residents. Assistant Manager Garlo advised he was going through the
mailing list and would have an actual corporate city limits list. Village Manager
Couzzo requested a copy from the property appraiser's office to determine the
current owner and to merge the two databases. Councilmember Paterno
recommended cutting the budget to $20,000 because of the reduced number of
newsletters that would be needed with the new list. Chief Weinand advised there
was a new law that required the Department of Revenue to have all the addresses
for the 175 and 185 money. Council member Genco suggested leaving the
amount at $27,000 the same as last year. Council member Resnik asked who
would do the a-mail; the answer was the person who updated the web site, and it
could all be sent at once from a list. Council member Resnik commented he did
not want another position created for someone to send a-mail. Council member
Genco commented 554.300 had $8,000 for books and publications and that much
had never been used, so she recommended cutting that to $4,500. The Village
Manager noted that included books for department training and when the move
was made to the new Village Hall, there would be a library. The reduction was
made to $4,500. Village Manager Couzzo advised that as reductions were made,
the appropriation would be reduced across the board.
Chief Allison provided an overview and noted that the 171 budget had not
• increased much in 27 years, while the size of the department had doubled.
Personnel Services included the Chief and his Administrative Assistant, who had
a paralegal degree. Increases were basically due to COLA and merit. Operations
items that increased included computer services, travel and per diem, re-
accreditation, insurance, repairs and maintenance; and service contracts for
building maintenance would be picked up for building systems and such items as
painting. Crime prevention was up $1,500, most of which was for materials and
handouts for National Night Out. The amount for capital was $26,160 which was
the police department's half for Argent to upgrade the computer system. Council
member Paterno requested a breakdown of the $65,000 for insurance, which
Finance Director Forsythe indicated would be obtained from Mr. Gallagher.
Chief Allison clarified that the amount in equipment leases was for current
equipment and included the Harley Davidson motorcycle and the Jeep. Chief
Allison advised that police officers had pagers and select people had phones.
541.300 included public records searches, dialogic system, Internet access.
Council member Genco questioned why building repair and maintenance,
546.303, had increased. Chief Allison explained the contract to address the mold
issue in the building was $525 per month. Chief Weinand reported the cost was
$100 to $300 per panel to make the shutters airtight to prevent mold. Council
member Genco commented that needed to be done right away. Roof repairs were
discussed. Assistant Manager Garlo reported the P.O. was in and the company
was ready to go, and that would be on the Village Council's agenda Thursday
night. Council member Genco asked about the number of employees shown on
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• page 28. Chief Allison commented there were 18 sworn officers but some
worked part time in code enforcement. Council member Genco asked about the
Police Chief's comment in the report that stated his career was coming to an end.
Chief Allison explained he had 17 months left in the drop plan, and planned to
stay until there was a replacement, and would leave in December 2006 or shortly
after. Mayor Humpage asked if the Chief would stay as a contract employee after
the drop program ran out in October or whenever, which the Village Manager
confirmed.
Council member Paterno noted operating expenses were up 11%. An example on
page 34, 547.300, had $4,000 built in from a prior year and that much was never
used, and there were several line items like that. Council member Genco gave
another example, where the amount of money was only based on the trend. The
Village Manager asked Chief Allison to take another look. Chief Allison
commented some items were contingencies. Council member Resnik commented
there was no place in the budget for explanations, and objected to going through
and putting an explanation on every line. Mayor Humpage commented the
Council had to put their faith in the Chief, and if there was money left over it
would go put back into the General fund. Councilmember Paterno indicated he
wanted to be consistent in how the budget was done. Council member Resnik
recommended if there was an increase that was considered exceptional, over
$10,000, etc., then add justification. Chief Allison commented he had been trying
to keep the budget balanced by shifting money, and would take a look at some
items. Council member Genco asked why there was more than one back-up
vehicle in the department. Chief Allison explained the lease purchase was out;
the new vehicle coming in would replace the detective vehicle which had over
100,000 miles; the stealth lease would run out next year and would be over
100,000 miles so would have limited use, and there was one backup which was a
1998 Crown Victoria. There were usually two people assigned to a car. One car
was only 2/3 of a car because it could only be run 2/3 of the time. Council
member Paterno asked why the detective drove his car home; Chief Allison
explained he was on cal124/7. The Village Manager commented a car allowance
instead could be explored; consensus of Council was to leave it alone. Council
member Paterno asked if police officers who lived in Tequesta could take their
cars home to act as a deterrent in their neighborhoods. Village Manager Couzzo
explained that would have to be done during contract negotiations, and it had been
brought up two years ago and rejected. It could also attract employees because
they would get a car to drive to work. The older cars like the SiJV's at the water
plant were kept for emergencies, and the insurance company was notified when
they were taken off the road.
Police Communications, 172-Chief Allison reported overtime was reduced,
however, capital was up $41,000 for phase 2 of the records system. Village
• Manager Couzzo commented this budget was up less than 6% in personnel and
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• PAGE 16
less than 3% in operating. Council member Genco advised that her questions
were not to put anyone on the spot, she learned from that and was able to answer
questions that were asked of her.
174 -Investigative -Chief Allison explained there was a jump in Travel and Per
Diem because Detective Weinblatt signed up for two schools this year that were
cancelled; there was an increase in 549.305 of $1,000 for transcripts.
175 -Police Patrol -Council member Genco asked for an explanation of
overtime training, which Chief Allison explained. was for firearms training,
certification for the boat, and other special training programs. There would be
increased training at all levels to meet insurance requirements. Council member
Genco asked about extra duty pay, contract services, which was when the bank
was robbed. Mayor Humpage asked if it would be more prudent to hire another
police officer rather than pay overtime. Chief Allison commented it would not
offset the cost, but in the next three years recommended going to a mandatory 3
per shift, and that would require 3 extra people. Mayor Humpage noted there was
$58,000 for overtime and a new person would cost $60,000, and commented after
working a shift and a half a person was not at the top of their game, and was
getting overtime but was not as alert when working that overtime. Discussion
ensued. Council member Genco saw a 5-year long-term plan for everyone, with
• the Village population expanding by 2,500 residents. Village Manager Couzzo
commented adding one person would knock down $10,000 in overtime. Council
member Paterno commented the department was always going to be short at these
numbers. Chief Allison indicated with three more officers it would work; Village
Manager Couzzo commented one could be added each year.
Consensus of Council was to add a full time police officer and reduce overtime by
$10,000. Vice Mayor Watkins asked what the marine unit did, which was
explained. Assistant Manager Garlo noted there had been 60 contacts for
enforcement over the 4a' of July weekend and Chief Allison reported they had
worked 31 hours. It was noted the patrol kept things under control. Chief Allison
thanked the Council for everything.
Fire - 191 -Chief Weinand reviewed the Emergency Management Budget, which
was for hurricanes, bringing in supplies, acatch-all budget, original versus
amended. Communication costs had increased operating costs. The Village
Manager noted there were new MRE's, ready to eat meals, and invited the
Council to stop by and try one. The old ones were shipped after the expiration
dates.
Chief Weinand reported in 1993 when this department was established, there had
been a task force that analyzed fire rescue .costs, over approximately 6 months,
• and the costs had stayed below that level for 12 years. Chief Weinand reviewed
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PAGE 17
• the budget, noting expenditures were up 110% but that be would reduced due to
the change in health insurance. The General fund was only being impacted by a
quarter of one percent. In 1994 there were 5 people established per shift plus 15
volunteers. He was proposing this year to eliminate the volunteers because
changes in State law had made it extremely hard to train volunteers. They had to
be trained a minimum of 160 hours to get them State certified, which was not cost
effective, so he proposed to phase out the few that were left and eliminate the
program.
Council member Resnik asked about the intern program, which Chief Weinand
reported was up and running but there had been turnover and it took a year to get
back up and running to where it was before after a turnover. Council member
Genco asked what was done to keep the intern attrition rate down Chief Weinand
responded interns were in training during their internship and when there was a
vacancy they were put into a position. In Fire Rescue since they had started, 37
positions had turned over, and it was a constant battle of retraining. They used
part time Martin County certified paramedic firefighters but they were not
training with the team and were somewhat unreliable in that they were not as
familiar with the equipment as the other employees. Vice Mayor Watkins
indicated she wanted to be sure there were enough employees. Chief Weinand
commented they were keeping the staffing at five, and it could be done many
• different ways-full time, part time, overtime-the difference was about $17,000.
Council Member Genco asked what happened if an intern left after a year. Chief
Weinand explained that if the Village sent them to a scholarship program they
were obligated to work for the Village for two years, or pay that money back.
There was no turnover problem with the paramedics. Discussion ensued
regarding staffing for the fire department. The Village Manager explained the
formula that was used to come up with the correct staffing number, and Chief
Weinand provided a handout of a breakdown of how to figure out the people
needed. It was noted it was cheaper to pay overtime than to hire a fiill-time
person. Chief Weinand reported that the problem was since last October 1 there
were employees who had averaged working 60 hours per week, and they were
going to get hurt because they were tired and working too much. Although he
tried to spread the overtime throughout the department, Chief Weinand stated he
had concerns about that. Council member Genco suggested hiring one more full-
time person, and asked to evaluate that. Village Manager Couzzo cautioned that
even if three new full-time positions were filled, staff would still be short, and it
would take $17,000 more per year to have three new people. Chief Weinand
explained that the difference was in level of service-if they were full time they
were trained together and working together. Council member Paterno noted that
the salaries would increase 15% over the next three years for getting certified,
above the 6% increase they got every year. Chief Weinand noted the overtime
rate went up by 3% each year; Council member Paterno commented he was just
• pointing out there would be increased costs down the road. Village Manager
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2005
• PAGE 18
Couzzo advised that the difference was $17,000 and if you picked up one you
would reduce overtime by $5,000 or $6,000. Assistant Manager Garlo
commented there were aspects you could not quantify in dollars-one was the
quality of the person you could recruit, and if they would come to work during an
emergency situation. Chief Weinand reported the part-time people reported to
their primary employer in the hurricane situation and did not come here. Council
member Resnik recommended adding one full-time person to relieve the situation.
Council member Paterno suggested utilizing the new person as a swing person.
Chief Weinand agreed a swing person could be used for vacation and holidays,
but not for sick leave.
Consensus of Council was to add one full-time firefighter to reduce overtime.
The Village Manager commented the number $1,443 million would then be
approximately $1,420 million. Council member Paterno commented state law
required 4 per shift for any fire and the Village was at 5. You could have 2
firefighters, 2 on the ambulance and there would be no one to work the pump.
Palm Beach County standard was 5 on a shift, the national standard for a house
fire was 13, which was why mutual aid was being utilized. Chief Weinand
commented it took 3 people to handle most medical calls at a minimum, and it
took more for cardiac arrest, which was why those other two were needed.
Although the Village was not growing, the population was increasing and last
• year there were 1,156 calls-13% of them were simultaneous-which meant
there was an ambulance crew of two on a call and the others were on another call
handling another patient, and standards did drop on simultaneous calls. Chief
Weinand expressed his opinion that in 5 years you would need 6 people on a shift.
Discussion ensued. Chief Weinand commented this year there were close to
1,400 calls at this time. Chief Weinand commented pension costs went up with
overtime. Council member Genco commented she left it to the Chief not to favor
those getting close to retirement, which would be unethical. Chief Weinand
explained overtime was according to a rotation schedule based on position and
was voluntary unless they could not get someone, then it became mandatory. Out
of 15 employees, 10 were paramedics. It was stated again that consensus of
Council was to add one firefighter.
EMS - 549.304 -Medical Director Fee, and the State license fee for EMS. Most
of the $12,800 was the medical director's fee. Chief Weinand explained he came
in monthly and met with staff also did an educational training class, and rode on
the truck 8 hours, and that the director for us was Capt. Dan Tilles.
194 -Cost to run ambulance. Chief Weinand explained that the $9,500 for
computer equipment was reclassified to Fire.
210 -Public Works. Director Gary Preston reported streetlights covered 22
• miles of roadway, 16 miles did not have Village standards. It was hoped that
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PAGE 19
• within the next three years the whole Village would have the new standazds. The
only portions left were Tequesta Drive, Tequesta Gardens, North Dover, and
Seabrook Road both north and south of Tequesta Drive. With the original
$135,000 cut to $100,000, it was planned to do North Dover Road and Tequesta
Gardens in the next budget yeaz. If possible, Tequesta Drive would be started. The
only cost to the Village was for installation of conduit, everything else was paid
by FP&L. The Village signed aten-yeaz contract for every streetlight that went
up. Discussion ensued. Mayor Humpage explained that a few yeazs ago the
Village offered streetlights in Tequesta Gazdens and they did not want them; now,
after the hurricanes, they wanted them. Council member Paterno commented he
hoped they did a better job on layout than in the past, because they had skipped
places. Mayor Humpage commented the lighting scheme should be done by foot-
candles. Mr. Preston indicated he noted when lights were out and the police
reported that also.
546.309 -Contractual Services for Lawn & Landscape -the difference was from
$152,000 to $172,000, due to increased contracts for COLA and Beach Road was
looking for the Village to contribute $15,000 for the improvements to 707.
Council member Paterno noted there was a nice wood Village of Tequesta sign on
707. The Parks and Recreation Director, Mr. Corbitt, indicated he was looking
for universal, uniform signage.
• The meeting recessed at 3:17 p.m. and reconvened at 3:25 p.m.
Capital Improvement Fund: Village Manager Couzzo announced that roadway
improvements in the Country Club on page 87 that had been $80,000 was now
zero. Village Manager Couzzo reported that the road work that was done
appeazed to be what those residents wanted. Mr. Preston reported the notice to
proceed had gone out that day for the bridge improvements for Tequesta Drive,
and should be complete prior to October 1. The Village Manager referred to page
65, which showed major capital project fund appropriations of $3,666,000. Of
$171,000 pazk improvements, $120,000 was grants. Constitution Pazk security
lighting was $5,000, skate pazk expansion $16,800, and miscellaneous pazk
projects were $150,000.
Municipal Center -Village Manager Couzzo reported the Village Hall costs of
$2,567,000, and stated there would basically be $390,000 of other costs-
landscaping, cabling, furnishings, computer networking, etc. Computer
networking had been estimated at $170,000, which would network everyone
including police and fire. A breakdown of the other costs was provided. Village
Manager Couzzo commented that 3-4 years ago he had believed you could build a
building for $150 per square foot. Today you must figure $250 to $350 per
square foot. The Village Manager confirmed for Council member Paterno that
• laptops had been included. West Construction was the contractor; David Brooks
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PAGE 20
• Construction who had built the Public Safety Building had bid $3 million. The
$2.4 million had been in the bank approximately three years. The Village
Manager commented he thought the landscaping irrigation could be pared down
and provided by Village employees; also the retention area could be done by
Village employees. Discussion ensued. Village Manager Couzzo advised that
Public Safety had been built for $182 per square foot without all the additional
items, and now the new building was at $250 per square foot.
Pathways were discussed. Mr. Preston commented the walk along Tequesta
Drive on the north side was halfway finished and this would hopefully take it all
the way to Country Club Drive for $75,000. Council member Paterno suggested
thinking about where sidewalks were needed to better utilize the $75,000 since
there were already sidewalks along one side of the street in this area, and consider
doing the lighting instead to finish it up. Mr. Preston commented all other major
areas had sidewalks. Council member Genco suggested for continuity to do the
sidewalk at least up to the bridge. Council member Paterno noted the sidewalk
was done on the north side up to the Baptist church. Mayor Humpage agreed
with Council member Genco, since Tequesta Drive was the main street and the
area at the railroad tracks was being spruced up. Councilmember Genco
suggested asking Palm Beach County to help with the one gateway that was on
county land, and both she and Mayor Humpage expressed their opinion to leave
• the sidewalks the way they had been planned. Village Manager commented staff
could see if they could expand the bid to include all the intersection. Mayor
Humpage commented to contact the county also. Vice Mayor Watkins asked
when the roads in Eastwinds Circle would be re-done to fix the defective
concrete. The Village Manager indicated staff would check on that.
Parks and Recreation Director Greg Corbitt responded to Village Manager
Couzzo's question asking what he was doing regarding the grant and our match.
Mr. Corbitt advised guidelines must be followed, and the costs were projected that
were associated with the project. Examples were the water playground for an
estimated cost of $80,000; picnic facility $10,000; bike trail entranceway $5,000;
skate park $10,000; playground $5,000; picnic facilities $5,000; basketball court
$5,000 made up the $120,000. Council member Paterno noted there was no
room for the water park; Mayor Humpage suggested moving the bocce ball court
to Tequesta Park. Mr. Corbitt pointed out the locations of the playgrounds,
basketball court, and pointed out the location where the water park was planned.
Council member Genco asked why the concert lawn was planned when there
would be one at the new Village Hall. Discussion ensued. Mr. Corbitt advised
the guidelines did not require a water park so long as money was put towards the
playground. Council member Paterno suggested using the $16,800 for other
things. Mr. Corbitt offered his idea to use the $16,800 to purchase new
equipment and use the grant money to look into putting a sun umbrella type cover
over the skate park so it would not be too hot to use in the summer. Mr. Corbitt
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
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• PAGE 21
suggested cutting the basketball court down. Council member Paterno suggested
rubberized mulch in the kiddie park. Council member Genco commented she
would rather save money by leaving the basketball court where it was right now,
adding the water feature, and if money was left to put a cover on the skate board.
Mr. Corbitt commented the original water feature was very large, and now he was
suggesting having a small one with a couple of smaller fountains, hopefully
within $80,000, and he and Mr. White could cut the court down.
Consensus of Council was to cut the court down. Mayor Humpage suggested
taking out the bocce ball court and putting in a mini basketball court. Discussion
ensued regazding having the court half size and possibly dual use. The Village
Manager advised that staff would come up with sketches and bring them before
Council in the future.
Debt Service page 57 -The Village Manager noted this was existing Village debt
and included the ambulance, and proposed purchase of the 800 MHz radio.
Council member Genco asked about funding for the radio. Ms. Forsythe advised
it might go on the master lease with Florida League of Cities. Village Manager
Couzzo pointed out the bulk of debt service--90% or better-was police and fire.
Vehicle lease purchases were discussed. Village Manager Couzzo noted the
Village was paying zero interest on those leases. Finance Director Forsythe
• advised that all the leases in debt service were lease purchases.
Parks 230 was reviewed by Mr. Corbitt. General maintenance was discussed.
Mr. Corbitt explained that Ron Smith was a 27-year employee and he took care of
45 acres at Tequesta Pazk by himself and if he went on vacation there was no
replacement; therefore the plan was to take the maintenance person from
Constitution Park and use where needed.
Page 63 -Parks Recreation programming. A full time position had been added,
so the budget showed Mr. Corbitt and one other full time person. This gained a
full time person but lost programming hours, going from 60 hours to 40 each
week.. Mr. Corbitt clarified there were now two part-time recreation supervisors
each working 30 hours a week. Discussion ensued. Two pazk time skate
attendants and two office assistants were also budgeted. The Finance Director
noted their personnel records showed 5 part-time positions were budgeted at this
time but only 3 part-time budgeted positions were being proposed; and one
current full-time position would go to two full time. This was only in recreation.
The part-time positions would work 20 to 30 hours no more than 30. $31,400
was budgeted for one office assistant for 30 hours and two skate pazk attendants at
20 hours. Mr. Corbitt indicated he would rather stay as it was now and do away
with the new full-time position, because he was getting 20 more hours with the
part-time personnel. The Village Manager commented that was okay, but
• suggested adding another part-time person, which would cost approximately
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
VILLAGE COUNCIL BUDGET PLANNING WORKSHOP
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• PAGE 22
$9,000. Councilmember Paterno commented on the potential that part-time
personnel would not stay because they wanted benefits, and two might leave,
which was why Mr. Corbitt had been trying to establish another full-time person.
Mr. Corbitt indicated adding another part-person, resulting in a total of two full-
time and 4 part-time positions would be satisfactory to him. The $31,400 was
increased by $10,000, for a total budgeted amount of $41,400, and Mr. Corbitt
was to have the latitude to have the part-time personnel work hours as needed so
that someone might work 20 hours one week and 30 the next. Consensus of
Council was 2 full-time and 4 part-time personnel in recreation. Councilmember
Paterno noted the extra personnel would allow the pazk to be open with
supervision on non-school days.
Water Enterprise Fund 401 -page 129. Village Manager Couzzo noted revenues
were very strong; and next year the Village would be off Jupiter water which
would make water revenues even stronger. 'The Village Manager reported the
pipeline and well had been done and it was in the budget to do the RO expansion.
South Florida Water Management representatives had come out to look over the
situation and see how things were going. There was approximately $100,000 in
reimbursables for the pipe; approximately $480,000-$500,000 in reimbursables
for the well. The South Florida representatives were very impressed and said to
put in for the $100,000 right away and they would begin to process that. Last
• yeaz money available for the well was about $6 million, this yeaz it had been
indicated it was cone-shot $60 million, and South Florida suggested the Village
go after that, because they were an ideal candidate. It had not been budgeted, but
it could be-another well could be developed and the third train added to the RO
plant. The well location would be located by Public Works. Mr. White explained
the Senate had passed a bill for this yeaz for $30 million and South Florida was
throwing in $28 million and change, but this was the last yeaz there would be a lot
of grant money for alternative water supply funding. Next yeaz it would be back
down to approximately $18 million. Council member Genco commented a new
train would cost approximately $2 million and another 1.4 or 1.3 million would be
needed. Mr. White responded the strategy would be to submit for everything--for
the whole $60 million--and there would be a good chance of getting 50% of that.
Last year there had been $6 million for the whole South Florida Water
Management District area, which was all of South Florida, and the Village got '/2
million. Mr. White advised that this year there would be almost $60 million, and
since the water would be used for alternative water supplies, there was a good
chance the Village could get more than 50%; or the Village could submit for it
and if they did not get what they wanted they did not have to do it. Mr. White
advised the work had to be done during the next fiscal yeaz and completed by
September of next year. Mr. White had approached the well driller now regarding
the cost of doing the other well if it was decided to proceed, and it was less than
then Village was now paying for water-about $780,000. Mr. White advised
• submittal must be by September 2, 2005. Council member Genco expressed
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
VILLAGE COUNCIL BUDGET PLANNING WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2005
• PAGE 23
concern how that would affect the budget if it had to be budgeted, would that be a
crunch next year, to which the response was the Village could just do the well.
Council member Genco asked where the Village would stand financially if they
ended up paying out another $2 or $2-1/2 million. The Finance Director
responded that debt service would have to be considered-there would be
something like $2.3 million in available cash. Village Manager Couzzo
commented this was presented just to see if the Council was interested in
proceeding. Council member Genco commented debt service would be $60,000 a
year at today's interest, and asked if the Village had the opportunity to sell the
service. Mr. White advised that he had been working with Jack Cory, and in 2007
the Village would lose Jupiter. The Village would be okay, but looking at the
maximum day of pumping, they would be really close to the percent of maximum
capacity when they would be required to be in design for expansion. Council
member Genco commented she would say go ahead and do it. Vice Mayor
Watkins saw no down side. Council member Genco asked if the Village had to
go ahead and pay for engineering services. Mr. White advised right now only the
application had to be submitted, and right now they had so much more money
than they would have, the Village could hope for the best of what they could get.
Consensus of Council was to apply for the grant money.
241 Water Administration -page 134. The Village Manager explained the
personnel cost was half for him and half for Patrice, and most of the costs
remained the same.
Pumping and Storage -page 136. This was the water plant. The $50,000 shown
for engineering services was in case there was a major break, re-design, etc. The
insurance numbers still needed to be added, but the numbers were not much
different than in the past.
Water Distribution -page 143. There were no new people. Energy costs for FPL
of $190,000 was for public works and the water plant electric bill and all the
outside pumps, wells, etc. Page 142 -the difference between actual through
September and estimated was discussed. It was pointed out that was really actual
through July, so the figures were for 9 months. Rates would change August 1.
During discussion of reduction of water purchases, it was noted the number of
years of the contract had been reduced and also the quantities purchased, and the
Village Manager commented it could be revisited. Village Manager Couzzo
advised this was the last year of the meter change out, and every meter in the
Village would be new. Mr. White commented that was why revenues were up.
Renewal & Replacement -page 145. This covered filters, machinery and
equipment, well modification, well site rehab, meters, etc.
•
MINUTES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
VILLAGE COUNCIL BUDGET PLANNING WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2005
PAGE 24
• Capital Expansion Projects -page 146. Mr. White commented the $2,000,000 for
the RO Plant expansion could actually come in less than what has been projected.
Refuse and Recycling -Page 156. Village Manager Couzzo noted the cost of the
Refuse/Recycling fees. Mr. Gary Preston, Director of Public Works indicated that
the Nichols Sanitation contract would expire in September 2007. He mentioned
the Village would be going into negotiations next year. Village Manager Couzzo
noted there may not be an increase in rates.
Stormwater Utility -Page 166. Mr. White noted that Staff would be coming to
Council to request a dump truck. This truck would be paid for 50/50 out of Water
and Stormwater. He noted the South Cypress Drive project would cost about
$250,000. He noted the dump truck would help with this project. Mayor Humpage
noted the revenue that the South Cypress project would bring into the Village.
Council Member Genco questioned the $75,000 for Drainage Maintenance. Mr.
White noted the South Cypress project should be coming to Council at the next
meeting for conceptual approval. Council Member Genco indicated she would
like to see something happen there, and commented that some money could be
spent to improve the Dover Ditch.
Village Manager Couzzo indicated that Ms. JoAnn Forsythe, Finance Director has
• requested that he ask the Council to add one position for finance, as mentioned
earlier in the meeting. Consensus of Council agreed to add one additional position
to the finance department for the upcoming year.
Council Member Genco thanked all the employees for an excellent job they have
done over the past year, and coming up with a budget that will carry the Village
forward for the next year. Vice Mayor Watkins agreed. Mayor Humpage noted
this has been a long workshop, but he felt the time was well worth the end result.
He noted he must leave as soon as possible because he has another event to
attend.
ADJOURMENT:
Vice Mayor Watkins moved to adjourn the meeting; seconded by Council
Member Genco; motion passed 5-0.
The meeting was therefore adjourned at 5:10 P.M.
,.
,~~
wen Carlisle
• Village Clerk