HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Workshop_04/16/2012 MINUTES
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
VILLAGE COUNCIL WORKSHOP
MONDAY, APRIL 16, 2012
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Tom Paterno at 5:00 p.m. A roll call was
taken by Village Clerk Lori McWilliams. Present were: Mayor Tom Paterno, Vice Mayor
Vince Arena, Council Member Abby Brennan, Council Member Steve Okun, and
Council Member Frank D'Ambra who arrived at 3:53 p.m. Also in attendance were:
Village Manager Michael R. Couzzo, Jr., Village Clerk Lori McWilliams, and Department
Heads.
1. Budget Planning and Strategy Session
Review and Discuss Police Department Proposed 2012 -2013 Budget
Village Manager Qouzzo explained that Department Heads would present an overview
of their budgets.
Police Chief Pitocchelli indicated the requested budget would maintain current
operations and was not frivolous. The proposed budget was anticipated to be slightly
more than last year. Savings measures were described, including reducing cell phone
and printing costs, using part-time personnel to save overtime dollars; and possible sale
of a salvaged boat. The DEA and ICE programs were requested to continue for another
year. A closed door strategy session on contract negotiations would be held.
Council Member D'Ambra joined the meeting at this point, at 3:53 p.m.
Chief Pitocchelli was requested to report to his staff the discussion from this meeting
regarding the Council's concern for the police officers' safety and well being. The new
software had been a reflection of that concern and had been much appreciated by the
staff. Additional discussion encompassed tasers, training, and mentoring. The
Manager and Council expressed their appreciation for the excellent work done by the
Police Department.
The meeting resumed after a 5- minute break.
• Review & Discuss Fire Rescue Department Proposed 2012 -2013 Budget
Fire Chief Weinand advised he would be presenting two budgets, emergency
management and fire rescue. His budget was very conservative, and reflected staffing
changes with JoAnn Burnsed moving to Community Development and Chief Weinand
going to a 32 -hour work week, with another position which would assist him. The Chief
Village Council Workshop Meeting Minutes
April 16, 2012
Page 2
expressed concern with the Department's aging fleet, the need for a new pumper in
next year's budget, new hoses, etc. New technology had not been provided for in this
budget. The emergency management budget was expected to go down slightly.
Personnel services would increase, mainly due to cost of living. A timeline was needed
for items such as replacing fire hoses. Staffing methods, overtime, and training were
discussed. A secondary intern program was proposed. Tequesta's Fire Department
was positioned to support Palm Beach and Martin Counties to bring in revenue, and a
plan was needed to initiate this support. Ideas to provide more service and exposure to
the community, as well as staff tasks, training, and schedules were discussed. Council
Members were invited to spend the night at the Department to gain a better
understanding of the Department.
ANY OTHER MATTERS
Mayor Paterno announced cameras would be installed on the bridge by May 7. Status
of development applications was discussed.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION Council Member Okun moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Council
Member D'Ambra, and unanimously carried 5 -0. Therefore the meeting was adjourned
at 5.36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori McWilliams, MMC
Village Clerk
Note These summary minutes are prepared in compliance with 286.011 F.S. and are
not verbatim transcripts of the meeting. A verbatim audio record is available from the
Office of the Village Clerk. All referenced attachments are on file in the Village Clerk's
office.