HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOCC Minutes 03-24-2009
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA
REGULAR MEETING
Date: March 24, 2009 Convened: 9:10 a.m.
Adjourned:12:00 p.m.
Commissioners Present: Chairperson, Paula A. Lewis, Charles Grande, Doug Coward, Chris Dzadovsky, Chris Craft
Others Present: Faye Outlaw, County Administrator, Lee Ann Lowery, Asst. County Administrator, Dan McIntyre, County Attorney, Don West, Public Works Director, Debra Brisson, Parks and
Recreation Director, Lauri Case, Utilities Director, Beth Ryder, Community Services Director, Diana Lewis, Airport Director, Dennis Wetzel, IT Director, Joseph E. Smith, Clerk of the
Circuit Shai Francis, Finance Director, Mark Satterlee, Growth ManaCourt, gement Director, Millie Delgado-Feliciano, Deputy Clerk
I. INVOCATION
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. MINUTES
Approve the minutes from the March 17, 2009 meeting.
It was moved by Com. Craft, seconded by Com. Dzadovsky, to approve the minutes from
the meeting held on March 17, 2009, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
IV. PROCLAMATIONS/PRESENTATIONS
A. COUNTY ATTORNEY
Resolution No. 09-080 – Proclaiming the month of April 2009 as “Water
Conservation Month” in St. Lucie County, Florida.
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 09-080 as drafted.
It was moved by Com. Coward, seconded by Com. Grande, to approve Resolution
No. 09-080, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
B. AGRICULTURE EXTENSION
Agricultural Awareness Week in St. Lucie County, Florida
Consider staff recommendation to approve Resolution No. 09-081 – A Resolution
proclaiming March 30, 2009 through April 4, 2009 as “Agricultural Awareness
Week” in St. Lucie County, Florida.
It was moved by Com. Dzadovsky, seconded by Com. Grande, to approve Resolution
No. 09-081, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
C. COUNTY ATTORNEY
Resolution No. 09-090 – Proclaiming March 31, 2009 through April 5, 2009 as
“The Fifth Annual Zora Fest! Dust Tracks in Florida Celebration”; and further
designating Saturday, April 4, 2009, as “Zora Neale Hurston Day” in St. Lucie
County, Florida.
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 09-090 as drafted.
It was moved by Com. Dzadovsky, seconded by Com. Coward, to approve Resolution
No. 09-090, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
D. COUNTY ATTORNEY
Resolution No. 09-102 - Urging the Florida Legislature to increase funding for the
community based Healthy Start Coalition in order to reduce infant death and
increase the health and well being of Florida mothers through the services and
programming provided by the Healthy Start Coalition.
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Consider staff recommendation adopt the attached Resolution No. 09-102 as
drafted.
It was moved by Com. Craft, seconded by Com. Grande, to approve Resolution
No. 09-102, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
E. COUNTY ATTORNEY
Resolution No. 09-106 - Proclaiming April 5, 2009, as “Parents and Children’s
Day” in St. Lucie County, Florida.
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 09-106 as drafted.
It was moved by Com. Dzadovsky, seconded by Com. Grande, to approve Resolution
No. 09-106, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
V.GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT
Mr. Joseph E. Smith, Clerk of the Circuit Court and representing the Boy’s and Girl’s Club
addressed the Board and advised them of the upcoming Boy’s and Girl’s Club event.
VI. CONSENT AGENDA
A.WARRANTS
Approve warrant list No. 25.
The Board approved Warrant List No. 25.
B.COUNTY ATTORNEY
1. St. Lucie County Fairgrounds – Supplemental Lease Agreement No. 3 for
Storage of FEMA Trailers.
The Board approved the proposed Supplemental Lease Agreement No. 3
with General Services Administration for storage of FEMA trailers at the
St. Lucie County Fairgrounds, and authorized the Chair to sign
Supplemental Lease Agreement No. 3.
ADDITION TO THE AGENDA
2. Resolution No. 09-108 – Opposing Senate Bill 360, which, if passed, would usurp local authority over Growth Management, wrongfully head attempts to reduce Growth Management and Environmental
Resources; change the regulatory framework; provide an exemption to Transportation Concurrency for dense urban areas; eliminate the DRI process for dense urban areas; and further usurp
local authority and control over development.
Com. Dzadovsky requested discussion on this item regarding the language. He believes there is language he felt was inconsistent with what they wish to achieve and asked for input
from the Growth Management Director as to his feeling regarding the language with regards to the usurping of local authority over Growth Management.
The Growth Management Director stated he felt it was appropriate language. He stated it seems the Bills want to take growth management out of the local official’s control. He stated
in speaking with Terri Lewis, some of the extra jurisdictional impact of some of the proposals with the exception of the DRI process are very troubling for a county that is low rise,
low density like St. Lucie County when adjacent to a city.
Com. Dzadovsky stated this was what he was alluding to with the City of Port St. Lucie.
The Growth Management Director stated that it appears the City of Port St. Lucie may qualify as a dense urban area, however there are other provisions but the lack of clarity and the
extra jurisdictional impacts are somewhat troubling.
Com. Coward advised the Board the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council addressed this item at their last meeting and their main point of opposition relating to Senate Bill 360 was
the exemption of the Development of Regional Impact which is the check and balances. He suggested passing a broader resolution talking about the need to sustain and retain the Department
of Community Affairs.
Com. Grande stated his concern with the DCA was that there are
some troubling issues taking place and this is including the Secretary of the DCA whoat one point appeared to be a inpositive position and who is now working hand and glove with the
state government if not to eliminate the DCA in its entirety to dismantle it. He has not come out strongly against the restructuring that would change his department to a division within
the state.
Com. Dzadovsky stated this is the reason for his request for discussion on the language. He believes the language should be strengthened.
Com. Lewis alluded to the letter Com. Dzadovsky will be hand delivering toTallahassee relating to this resolution and another one. She believes the letter is more specific and lengthier
and believes the letter is more appropriate at this time and believes the resolution can follow.
The County Attorney recommended language relating the concerns of the Board of County Commissioners including the concerns regarding the Departmentof Community Affairs.
Com. Grande recommended adding theiroppos ition to the change in status of the DCA and that it should maintain itsintegrity.
Com. Coward recommended adding the point that extra jurisdictional impacts need to be adequately considered and off set.
Com. Craft recommended having the resolution broughtback at the afternoon scheduled informa l meeting.
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The County Attorney recommended adopting resolutions withthe the changes and torial comments can be added at the afternoon informal meeting. He will draft the resolution specifically
to 360, he will take out the usurp and the local authority and will add the requested language as discussed and it will brought back this afternoon.
Com. Coward recommended advising the FAC the would like for them to take a stronger position Board and indicating the key issues.
The County Attorney recommended moving adopting the Resolution pertaining to Senate Bill 360 as amended take out the language that has been previously identified as being objectionable
and inserting language about the DRI and making it subject to final editorial review by the County Attorney. He also recommended adopting a Resolution waving the return opposing the
reduced funds of the DCA and relegation of the DCA from Department to Division status also subject to final editorial review by the County Attorney.
It was moved Com. Coward, seconded by Com. Dzadovsky to send a letter to the FAC together with the draft of a broader resolution stating their desire to sustain the DCA and indicating
they would like the FAC to aggressively lobby on behalf of the DCA and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
ADDITION TO THE AGENDA
3. Resolution No. 09-109 – Opposing Senate Bill 2026, which, if passed, would provide an extension for the expiration date of certain construction and Operating Permits and Development
Orders; extend the period for completing required mitigation associated with such permits or orders; prohibit additional permitting standards or criteria from being adopted or enforced
during a specified period; and provide for retroactive application.
The Board approved Resolution No. 09-109.
4.ADDITION TO AGENDA
Ordinance No. 09--, Local Economic Stimulus Ordinance
Permission to Advertise
The Board approved advertising Draft Ordinance No. 09-008 for a public hearing to be held on April 21, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as it may be heard.
C.GRANTS
PULLED PRIOR TO MEETING.
1. Staff requests authorization to: (1) modify the anticipated County Incentive Grant Program (CIGP) pending agreement to move $1,317,948 of the $2,000,000 in funds from the Kings Highway
and Orange Avenue intersection to the Kings Highway and Indrio Road intersection; and (2) move $817,948 from the Transportation Bond funds designated for Kings and Orange to the Transportation
Bond funds designated for Kings Highway and Indrio Road.
2. Staff recommends approval to submit a grant application to the Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Boating Improvement
Program (FBIP) for an amount not to exceed $103,800 toward the
construction cost of a restroom and waste line at Stan Blum Boat Ramp.
The Board approved Resolution 09-091 (Attachment 1) authorizing the
submittal of the application.
C. GRANTS CONTINUED
3. The Board approved submitting a grant application to the Florida Inland
Navigation District (FIND) Waterways Assistance Program for an amount
not to exceed $103,800 toward the construction of a restroom and waste
line at Stan Blum Boat Ramp, and approved Resolution 09-092
authorizing the submittal.
4. The Board approved proceeding with engineering, permitting and
surveying for the planned single-lane boat ramp on Little Mud Creek at
Blind Creek Park at an estimated cost of $33,800. In addition, the Board
authorized submitting a grant application to the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission, Florida Boating Improvement Program for an
amount not to exceed $47,500 toward the construction of a single lane
boat ramp on Little Mud Creek at Blind Creek Park, and approved
Resolution 09-096 authorizing submittal.
5. The Board approved proceeding with engineering, permitting and
surveying for the planned single-lane boat ramp on Little Mud Creek at
Blind Creek Park at an estimated cost of $33,800. In addition, the Board
authorized submitting a grant application to the Florida Inland Navigation
District (FIND) Waterways Assistance Program for an amount not to
exceed $47,500 toward the construction of a single lane boat ramp on
Little Mud Creek at Blind Creek Park, and approved Resolution No. 09-
096 authorizing the submittal.
6. The Board approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU),
outlining general responsibilities, among designated stakeholders, in the
St. Lucie County Health Access Network and authorized the Chair to sign
the Memorandum of Understanding.
7. The Board approved submitting a grant application to the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for funds in the amount of $209,564
to retrofit all or a portion of four County buildings with high impact glass
or storm shutters/awnings/screens. In addition, the Board approved
Resolution No. 09-100, which is necessary to complete the grant
application.
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8. The Board authorized the submittal of a grant application to the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for funds in the amount of $294,126
to fortify the rip rap banks of Mosquito Impoundments 1 and 6. In
addition, approved Resolution 09-101, which is necessary to complete
the grant application.
9. The Board approved the submittal of a grant application to the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal and Marine
Habitat Restoration Project Grant in the amount of $2,500,000 for
restoration of Impoundment 14C wetlands. The NOAA Coastal and
Marine Habitat Restoration Project Grant Program is part of the Federal
Economic Stimulus Program and require no matching funds.
Impoundment 14C wetlands border the Indian River Lagoon and are
located immediately north of the Florida Atlantic University Harbor
Branch campus and extend north to the Indian River County line.
D.COMMUNITY SERVICES
1. Permission to advertise for a Request for Qualifications for all eligible
agencies in St. Lucie County that meet the criteria, as required, for
distribution of the Choose Life License plate funds collected in St. Lucie
County.
The Board granted permission to advertise a Request for Qualifications
(RFQ) for all eligible agencies that meet the criteria of Section
320.08058(30), Florida Statutes, to receive funding from the Choose Life
License Plates.
D. COMMUNITY SERVICES CONTINUED
2. Request permission to advertise a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for
Public Transportation Services for St. Lucie County.
The Board approved advertising an RFQ for Public Transportation
services for St. Lucie County and authorized the Chair to sign all
necessary documents.
3.Acceptance of the Florida Department of Transportation Supplemental
Joint Participation Agreement No. 3; approval of the Capital
Improvement Program CIP 09-035 for the intermodal facility; approval of
Budget Resolution No. 09-087 to encumber and expend funds from
FDOT in the amount of $250,000 with local 50% match pledged from the
Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency.
The Board approved the Acceptance of the Florida Department of
Transportation Supplemental Joint Participation Agreement No. 3;
approved the Capital Improvement Program CIP 09-035 for the
intermodal facility; approved Budget Resolution No. 09-087 to encumber
and expend funds from FDOT in the amount of $250,000 with local 50%
match pledged from the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency; authorized
the Chair to sign all necessary documents.
E.AIRPORT
1. Resolution No. 09-093 accepting the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) Joint Participation Agreement (JPA) #426174-1-
94-01 in the amount of $120,000 (80% FDOT share) with a 20% local
match of $30,000 for a total project cost of $150,000 for the installation
of Airfield Fence Obstruction Lights at St. Lucie County International
Airport.
The Board approved Resolution No. 09-093 accepting the Florida
Department of Transportation (FDOT) Joint Participation Agreement
(JPA) #426174-1-94-01 in the amount of $120,000 (80% FDOT share)
with a 20% local match of $30,000 for a total project cost of $150,000
for the installation of Airfield Fence Obstruction Lights at St. Lucie
County International Airport, and authorized Chair or designee to
execute same.
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2. Treasure Coast FBO, LLC – Revocable License Agreement for Aviation
Fuel Truck Parking.
The Board approved the proposed Revocable License Agreement with
Treasure Coast FBO, LLC, and authorized the Chairman to sign the
License Agreement.
Com. Grande requested a correction be made in the paragraph regarding
open solicitations where the sentence would end with the word
“permitted”.
The Airport Director stated she would make the correction.
F.PUBLIC WORKS
1.Emergency Repairs Related to Tropical Strom Fay – Verada Ditch
Improvements North of Calmoso Drive and Calmoso Drive Replacement.
The Board approved awarding the Emergency Repairs related to Tropical
Strom Fay for the Verada Ditch North of Calmoso Drive and Calmoso
Drive Culvert Replacement Projects to the low bidder, Dickerson Florida,
Inc., in the amount of $2,091,304.00 and set up the project budget (to include the contingency) in the amount of $2,300,500.00.
The Board approved Work Authorization No. 22 (Verada Ditch
Improvements North to Calmoso Drive) to Dunkelberger Engineering and
Testing in the amount of $53,000, and authorized the Chair to sign.
F. PUBLIC WORKS CONTINUED
2.Emergency Repairs Related to Tropical Storm Fay – Verada Ditch
Improvements South to Calmoso Drive and Lucero Drive Culvert
Replacement.
The Board approved award of the Emergency Repairs related to Tropical
Strom Fay for the Verada Ditch South of Calmoso Drive and Lucero Drive
Culvert Replacement Projects to the low bidder, Ranger Construction
Industries, Inc., in the amount of $2,756,468.00 and set up the project budget (to include the contingency) in the amount of $3,032,500.00.
The Board approved Work Authorization No. 23 (Verada Ditch
Improvements South of Calmoso Drive) to Dunkelberger Engineering and
Testing, in the amount of $66,705, and authorized the Chair to sign.
3.Okeechobee Road (SR 70) – Left Turn Lane at Peacock Road
The Board approved waiver of formal bidding process and utilize the
opportunity provided by the Florida Department of Transportation SR 70
Widening project by entering into a sole source contract with Dickerson
Florida, Inc. in the amount of $185,293.85 for the construction of a left
turn lane on Okeechobee Road at Peacock Road.
4.Fort Pierce South Mine
The Board approved to schedule a public hearing to be held May 5, 2009
at 6:00 p.m. or soon thereafter to consider the request of Fort Pierce
South Mine permit expansion.
5.Lennard Road Municipal Service Benefit Units (MSBU) 1, 2, and 3, for
Paving and Drainage, Water, and Sewer, respectively.
The Board rejected all bids and allow for the rebidding of the projects.
6. Sunland Gardens Phase II Municipal Services Benefit Unit (MSBU)
Project Budget and Interim Financing.
The Board adopted Resolution No. 09-057 (Attachment 1) to establish a
budget and authorized the Office of Management and Budget to
proceed with additional interim financing to fund the construction of
potable water mains for Sunland Gardens Phase II MSBU.
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ADDITION TO THE AGENDA
7. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Grant Application
The Board authorized the grant application.
G.GROWTH MANAGEMENT
1.Request of Adams Homes of New Florida for final plat for a two (2) lot
residential subdivision called “Adams Record Plat”. The proposed plat is
a re-plat of Lots 23, 24 and 25 of 93, Lakewood Park Unit 8 as recorded
in Plat Book 11, Page 19 of the Public Records of St. Lucie County Florida
into two (2) lots.
The Board approved the final plat of “Adams Record Plat” and authorized
final signature and recording.
G. GROWTH MANAGEMENT CONTINUED
2.Permission to advertise Ordinance No. 09-012, accepting the Draft Land
Development Code as received from Municipal Code Corporation
(Municode), and Ordinance No. 09-013 amending the St. Lucie County
Land Development Code (LDC) to correct inconsistencies, minor errors
and omissions in the existing version of the code.
The Board authorized staff to advertise proposed Ordinances 09-012 and
09-013 for public hearings before the Local Planning Agency on April 16,
2009 and the Board of County Commissioners on May 5, 2009 and May
19, 2009 beginning at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as may be heard.
H.MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
1.Purchasing Division - Board approval of the cancellation without cause of
contract C07-09-494 with Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation.
The Board approved the cancellation without cause of contract C07-09-
494 with Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation
PULLED PRIOR TO MEETING.
2.Purchasing Division -Board approval of the assignment of contract C08 -10-558 from Cliff Berry, Inc. to Everglades Waste Removal Services, LLC
Consider the assignment of contract C08-10-558 from Cliff Berry, Inc. to Everglades Waste Removal Services, LLC and asking permission for the Chair to sign the assignment as prepared
by the County Attorney.
3.Purchasing Division - Board approval of the third amendment to contract
C06-08-278 with South Florida Concrete Service, Inc. and permission to
advertise an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for Concrete, Culvert, and Asphalt
Installation as needed.
The Board approved the third amendment to contract C06-05-278 with
South Florida Concrete Services, Inc. extending the contract through
September 30, 2009, permission for the Chair to sign the amendment as
prepared by the County Attorney and approved advertising an Invitation
to Bid (ITB) for Concrete, Culvert, and Asphalt installation as needed.
I.ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
1.Extension of the South Florida Water Management District/St. Lucie River
Issues Team grant for “Living in a Watershed” exhibit at the Oxbow Eco-
Center.
The Board approved extending the SFWMD/St. Lucie River Issues Team
Grant to September 30, 2009 for the design, construction, and
installation of a “Living in a Watershed” exhibit at the Oxbow Eco-Center,
and authorized the Chair to sign the amended contract.
2.Transfer of surplus capital improvement funds to other projects, and
approval of CIP summaries (CIP09-033 and CIP09-034).
The Board approved the transfer of surplus funds as identified in
Attachment A, and approval of CIP summaries (CIP09-033 and CIP09-
034).
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J.UTILITIES
1.Staff requests the Boards’ permission to declare an emergency, reject
the remaining quotes for the 16” Force Main on US Highway #1 and
request a bid waiver per the Purchasing Manual Section 5.5 to approve
the formal quote from Ditchdiggers, Inc. (local contractor) in the amount
of $864,131.88.
The Board approved rejecting the remaining quotes for the 16” Force
Main on US Highway #1, approve a bid waiver per the Purchasing
Manual Section 5.5 and approved the formal quote from Ditchdiggers,
Inc. (local contractor) in the amount of $864,131.88.
2. Staff requests permission to advertise and provide notice to customers
for a Public Hearing to consider proposed Utility Rate Tariffs for the St.
Lucie County Water & Sewer District. The Public Hearing would be at
the regular meeting of the Board on April 7, 2009. (Night Meeting)
The Board granted permission to advertise and provide notice to
customers for a Public Hearing on April 7, 2009 to amend certain rates,
fees and charges for the St. Lucie County Water & Sewer District in St.
Lucie County.
3. Staff requests approval of the Second Amendment to the agreement
between Severn Trent Environmental Services, Inc. and St. Lucie County.
The Board approved the Second Amendment to the agreement between
Severn Trent Environmental Services, Inc. and St. Lucie County.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There are no public hearings scheduled for March 24, 2009.
END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
REGULAR AGENDA
VIII. GROWTH MANAGEMENT
Petition of Dennis Murphy, Culpepper & Terpening Inc., for a 12 Month Extension of The
Meridian of North Hutchinson Island Major Site Plan project for property located on the
northeast corner of the intersection of North A-1-A and Shorewinds Drive (file No. BCC
720081502).
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Draft Resolution No. 09-021 granting the
requested 12-month extension The Meridian of North Hutchinson Island Major Site Plan.
Staff advised the Board the petition for the extension had been withdrawn by the
applicant prior to the meeting.
No action required.
IX. COUNTY ATTORNEY
Resolution No. 09-082 – Amendment to the Investment Policy
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 09-082 and authorize the Chair
to sign the Resolution.
It was moved by Com. Coward, seconded by Com. Grande, to approve Resolution No.
09-082, and; upon roll call, motion carried unanimously.
X. COMMUNITY SERVICES
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Board direction on the level of funding for the Hurricane Housing Recovery (HHR) assistance for the MSBU Program.
Staff is seeking Board direction on the level of assistance for the MSBU program.
The Housing Manager addressed the Board and reviewed the following memorandum:
At recent meetings, the Board has had discussion about the assessments for the Sunland Gardens Municipal Services Benefit Unit Program. The assessments are eligible or funding under
the County’s Hurricane Housing Recovery Program. In addition to MSBU assessments, the HHR also provides down payment, housing rehabilitation, foreclosure prevention, rental assistance,
construction development and water and sewer assistance to very low to moderate income residents. The HHR is a state-funded program which began in 2005 in response to the 2004-2005
hurricanes. It was approved asa one time funded state program and is not expected to be renewed when current funds are expended.
Under the current HHR Program guidelines, the assistance for the MSBU assessment is provided as follows:
Zero percent interest rate loans with a 30 year term
50% of the assessment for very low and low income clients
Loans are deferred payment and no monthly payments are required
Full repayment of the loans if the property is sold prior to the end of
the 30 year term
Many of the Sunland Gardens residents have expressed concern about the financial hardship they are facing with paying the MSBU assessment. In turn,
Commissioner Dzadovsky has indicated a desire for the County to explore
whether or not the level of assistance can be increased for very low to low income residents and expanded to include moderate income residents in order
to mitigate the apparent financial hardship faced by the Sunland Gardens residents particularly given the current economic downtown. Commissioner
Dzadovsky is supporting modification of the HHR Program to provide up to 100% assistance of the MSBU for very low to low income residents, 50% assistance of the MSBU assessment for moderate
income residents and to modify the deferred payment loan terms on a graduated basis as follows:
5 year term for assistance under $15,000
10 year term for assistance between $15,001 and $40,000; and
15 year term for assistance between $40,000 and $60,000
On March 17, 2009 the Affordable Housing Assistance Committee reviewed the proposed changes to the HHR program. The AHAC made a recommendation in support of the proposed change to the
loan terms as indicated above. However, they did not support increasing the percentage of financial assistance provided for water and sewer assistance above the current 50% level for
low and very low income residents in an effort to ensure that as many residents as possible could be assisted.
MSBU assistance is eligible as part of the HHR Program housing rehab activity which has a balance of $443,000. The $443,000 must be expended by June 30, 2009. The MSBU assistance would
be prepaid at the discounted assessment amount of $5,149.10 rounded to $5,200. Using HUD guidelines that estimate 20% of the residents will qualify as very low and low income clients,
approximately 114 residents in Sunland Gardens are potentially eligible for assistance. All 114 residents could be provided assistance from the $443,000 at 50% of the assessment or
$2,600. If the MSBU assistance were increased to 100% of the assessment or $5,200 for very low to low income residents, the $443,000 would be sufficient to cover only 85 of the 114
residents.
At this point, Community Services has received 28 completed applications from very low to low income residents. All of the applications have been approved. Staff anticipates receiving
an additional 22 applications from very low to low income residents which would bring the total to 40 eligible households. Based on a total of 40 eligible very low to low income residents,the
MSBU assistance at 50% would be $104,000 and at 100%, the assistance would be $208,000.
It is a policy decision of the Board to maintain the current level of MSBU assistance for very low to low income residents at 50% or to increase it up to 100% as well as to expand the
program to include assistance to moderate income residents at 50%. Staff’s intent is to utilize all HHR funds to avoid the potential of returning funds back to the State and to minimize
the need to request an extension from the State. The County is in the first one-year extension to expend the HHR funds and may request a second one-year extension if need be. Staff
is closely monitoring the one remaining HHR funded activity and if need be plan to bring a request for approval to ask for a second one-year extension from the State to complete that
activity. Should the extension be granted, the remaining HHR funds would have to be expended by June 2010 or be returned to the State.
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Staff is seeking Board direction on the level of assistance for the Sunland Gardens MSBU assessment program. The application deadline for the MSBU Program has been extended to April
15, 2009. Based on the action of the Board, the appropriate Resolution to modify the HHR Program will be brought back for approval at the April 7 Board meeting.
The Housing Manager advised the Board there is presently 53 re-habs on their waiting list and for this reason she believes they will not be sending any funds back to the State.
Com. Coward questioned if there were other programs available to handle the 53 re-habs.
The Housing Manager stated at this time she has not received the cost for all the re-habs and she believes the other 5 programs would not handle all the rehabs.
Com. Coward expressed his concerns with not being able to assist other residents not from Sunland Gardens who are in the same very low to low income category if they gave the Sunland
Gardens residents the 100% funding.
Com. Grande stated he supported the recommendation given by the Housing Advisory Committee.
Com. Coward stated he had concerns with displacing very low-low income participants in exchange for moderate income participants. He is not in favor of the 100% funding request across
the Board. He believes the key is to change the term.
Com. Dzadovsky stated he had a deep concern and asked if as part of their deliberations the considered the fact the Sunland Gardens had an April date cut off.
The Housing Manager stated they were aware of the cut off.
Com. Coward reiterated he felt they had to consider those who were on the waiting list waiting for some assistance and again felt the key issue would be the term.
Com. Dzadovsky stated had this been done in 2004, those residents in Sunland Gardens would have been able to participate then because things were different then. ue to Dtoday’s economy
he has deep concerns if the residents in Sunland Gardens would be able to afford the project. He asked the Board to consider 100% funding assistance for those in the very low and low
income bracket.
Com. Craft stated he would not go with the 100% funding, however he would be willing to increase the percentage from 50% to 60% for the very low and low income residents and he will
not support the moderate income at all. He believes they need to keep funds for the other programs.
Com. Lewis stated she was not sure if those on the very low to low income levels today are living any different than they did in 2004. She cannot support with the 100% funding at this
time and is concerned with the equity issue. She does not with to extend a different deal for those of Phase II than they did for Phase I. She believes it is a positive step for the
term to be 5 years as opposed to 30 years.
Com. Dzadovsky asked if they would consider if they would expend $111,000 throughout those 28 applicants.
Com. Grande stated he suspects there will be more applicants coming forward and he concurs with Com. Lewis in moving the 30 year term to 5 years.
Com. Coward stated he would consider raising the percentage from 50% to 75% of the assessment for the very low to low income.
It was moved by Com. Coward, seconded by Com. Craftto accept the advisory committee’s recommendation to reduce the term of the loan increase the contribution and from 50% to 75% for
the very low and low income residents, and; upon roll call, the vote was as follows:
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Com. Lewis stated she still had a concern about the 53 rehab projects- and does not wish to take a chance on putting people out of their homes.
Com. Grande stated he will not support the motion due to the available funds and does not believe the finances are there. He stated they were well beyond the 133,000 even if they go
with 33 applicants.
Nay’s: Grande, Lewis; Aye’s: Dzadovsky, Craft, Coward; motion carried by a vote of 3 to 2.
PULLED PRIOR TO MEETING.
XI. COMMUNITY SERVICES
Resolution No. 09-079 to modify the St. Lucie County State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Program Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP).
Consider staff recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 09-079 to modify the St. Lucie County State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Program Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) and
authorize staff to send the Modification to Florida Housing Finance Corporation for approval.
XII. ADMINISTRATION
School Resource Officer (SRO) Programs in St. Lucie County. Presentation by Dr. Judi
Miller, Chair School Board of St. Lucie County and Dr. Michael Lannon Superintendent of
The School Board of St. Lucie County.
Dr. Judy Miller advised the Board that due to budget cuts at the state level on education,
they will not be able to provide their share of the funding for the SRO program. There is
a $23 million dollar cut this year and next year they anticipate a minimum of a $30
million dollar cut. The county is funding this program at $1.8 million, City of Port St.
Lucie a little under $800,000, the City of Ft. Pierce is funding the program through a
grant that will sunset in a few years at $120,000. The School Board had paid $2.8
million toward the program and is not in a position to continue to fund their portion of
the program with the upcoming cuts.
Dr. Miller stated in discussing this issue with the School Board Attorney he suggested one
solution which was the ability to do an MSTU to cover the funding for the program. The
process would be to have the School Board adopt a Resolution to be presented to the
Board of County Commissioner to have an MSTU initiated. She advised the Board their
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fiscal year starts July 1 which places them in a time constraint issue.
If there was to be a referendum, it would need to be in the next general election and she
believes this is too far out to help them today. The Board has the ability to approve an
MSTU without a referendum.
The total cost of the program is $6.25 million. The two municipalities in St. Lucie County
also provide a portion of funding for the program.
Com. Dzadovsky addressed various questions he was asked out in the street regarding
this issue.
Dr. Miller addressed the closing of three schools in the county.
Com. Dzadovsky stated the residents he has spoken with are outraged that the local
residents have to pick up the cost for the state. He believes if at the local level they
keep finding ways to pick up state costs, they will never change the way they do
business and find the way to fund our schools properly.
The proposed millage rate increase would be .27 to .34 of a mil or on an average
$150,000 home it would cost $40.00 per year. This cost would go strictly to the home
owner and not the renters.
Com. Craft stated he was interested in working with the two cities and St. Lucie Village to
see if an MSTU is the proper method to move forward or possibly another method. He
recommended directing staff to come back with more refined numbers so they have an
understanding of what they are in for. He is not interested in the delay of a referendum
that would take two years.
Com. Lewis stated she was not prepared to do without the School Resource officers and
is committed to find a way to fund the program.
Com. Grande commented on the concept of an educated workforce from K through
secondary. He stated he believed the elderly should leave an educational system for the
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kids who are the future of this community. He stated he would commit whatever was
necessary to support the school system in St. Lucie County.
Com. Coward stated there is no question as to the support of the SRO program; however
the question is how we fund it. The idea of a tax increase during these economic times
troubles him. He does not agree with the approach of increasing taxes. He believes
they should take the county’s contribution and add to it. He would like to see funding
with the other local entities also contributing. He will not support an MSTU or an MSBU.
He believes they can allocate more to the county’s portion by revisiting the budget
process. He recommended taking the 1.8 million and doubling it as the county’s
contribution.
Com. Craft recommended obtaining information from the Property Appraiser’s office
regarding the decrease in taxes before making a decision. He believes they will see a
much lesser value in properties.
Com. Grande stated he believed there would not be much of a tax decrease especially for
those who are homesteaded who normally have an increase due to the 3% cap.
Com. Dzadovsky stated he supports the SRO program and need to find a long term
solution for the funding. He would like to move forward with the funding this year and
then have a referendum for the long term. He believes the voters need to weigh in on
this issue.
Com. Coward recommended funding at the current level and utilizing the match from the
funds allocated to the medical wing for the jail and then continues to explore long term
funding possibly by voter’s referendum.
Com. Grande stated they needed to work with the other government entities and he felt
they are not in a position today to speak for the other governments.
Com. Coward stated they could ask them to contribute and advise them the county is
putting up the majority of the funds and he advised the School Board members he would
not approve a 16% increase but would agree to fund at the current level.
It was moved by Com. Dzadovsky, seconded by Com. Coward to fund at the current level
and utilize the 1.8 million of funds allocated to the jail medical wing (making the
allocated amount by the county of. 3.6 million);
Com. Craft stated he would not support Com. Coward’s recommendation and
recommended reviewing what short comings the county will have. He would rather look
at it in a holistic manor with other entities included in discussion and make sure they are
on board before any action is taken.
Com. Lewis stated she was not prepared to make a specific commitment where the funds
would be obtained today. She believes they need to identify the funding sources and will
not support the motion.
Com. Grande stated there is a clear consensus the program will be funded but not totally
decided how it will be funded, however he felt the motion was too specific if not
premature and asked the motion make to withdraw the motion at this time he would
hate to see a motion of this type putting forth uncertainty as far as the funding.
Com. Coward stated he would concur with the withdraw if there was a clear effort to talk
with the municipalities and advised them the county is trying to incorporate this into their
existing budget and would need the help of the municipalities to achieve it. He
reiterated that he could not support a tax increase in light of today’s economy.
Dr. Miller recommended a meeting be scheduled with the heads of the all the
governmental entities to discuss the issue.
Com. Craft requested all the information necessary including the amount of a millage
increase.
Com. Dzadovsky requested a time frame of two weeks and the issue be made part of the
discussion at an informal meeting.
Com. Lewis stated she believed two weeks would be appropriate.
At this time Com. Dzadovsky withdrew his motion, with the understanding they would
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move forward with the time frame to obtain the information, to have the meetings with
the municipalities and also have a discussion at the next informal meeting.
Com. Coward withdrew his second.
This item will be scheduled for discussion in two weeks.
Com. Craft requested information on the affect of an MSTU on a low value home to a
moderate value and what the net increase would be.
Com. Grande also requested they receive the refined requirements from the School
Board.
No action taken.
There being no further business to be brought before the Board, the meeting was adjourned.
_____________________________
Chairman
____________________________
Clerk of the Circuit Court
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