TOWN OF MELBOURNE BEACH
MINUTES
TOWN COMMISSION - Special Meeting
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TUESDAY
August 9 2005
6:30 p.m.
MASNY ROOM
The Town Commission of the Town of Melbourne Beach, Florida met in special session in the Cynthia Masny Room
of Town Hall, 507 Ocean Avenue, on Tuesday, August 9. 2005 beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Present:
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Mayor Stacey
Vice Mayor Wilson
Commissioner Guglietta
Commissioner Price
Commissioner Walters
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Others Present:
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Town Manager W. D. Higginbotham
Town Clerk Patricia Burke
Municipal Accountant Jane Antonsen
Public Works Superintendent Larry Hosmer
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Mayor Stacey called the meeting to order and led the entire assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Mayor Stacey then announced that this was the second budget hearing and asked that the members of the Commission try
to keep to the order of the proposed budget.
The Town Manager stated that he had made the changes to the document as requested from the previous budget meeting
held on August 4, 2005.
He also clarified for the record that $8,000 for Ryckman house, $1,000 for Williams Building and $5000 for litigation expenses
were in the proposed budget to be discussed this evening.
Discussion as to whether or not the Williams building had electricity occurred at this time. It was reported that the building
has no electric at this time because the Hurricanes destroyed the panel for power and the power has been cut until the panel
can be replaced.
The Mayor indicated that the Commission agreed that they would be responsible for payment of minor things such as electric,
water, and maintenance.
The Town Manager reported that the Budget Message had been added to the front of the document, and that the Commission
left off with law enforcement budget. He also stated that the Chief of Police had met personally with most of the members of
the Commission.
There was no objection to start with Law Enforcement Budget.
Law Enforcement
The Town Manager indicated that the capitol outlay request of $46,500 included one patrol vehicle, three in car video systems
and the software updates for the ticket writing system and there is $1,500 for miscellaneous equipment for the car.
At this time, Commissioner Walters asked the Chief about the overtime budget. He stated that the budget for last year was
$15,000, it was projected that at the end of this year the expense would be $10,000 and he wanted to know why the budgeted
amount for FY 05/06 would be $25,000.
Chief responded that it was due to the additional functions taking place in the town. He stated that based on the figures for this
years activities the expenses were as follows:
$480 - Holloween activities and the Icemans Ball
$900 - Christmas Tree lighting and Parade
$240 - Little League Parade
$240 - Easter Egg Hunt
$720 - Sunrise Services
$3300 - Founders Day
$960 - Music Festival
$1005 - Triathalon
$900 - 4th of July
$450 - Police Memorial Day
This is a total of $9,195. The Chief then stated that the following are additional costs: Traffic court - five officers at 2 hours per
month times 12 months is approximately $1800.00. This does not include expenses for criminal court. In addition, it is anticipated
that the officers will be doing four hours of in-house training per month. The Chief indicated that the officers have had no physical
in-house training. Most of their training has been either computer or video. The young officers need training on felony traffic stops,
building searches, responding to bank robberies, responding to schools and so forth. This training would consists of four hours
per month times 12 months is $14, 400. The above constitutes costs of approximately $25,395 not including expenses for
vacation, sick, or comp time. Training time would have to be adjusted to accommodate for vacations and sick time.
Commissioner Walters asked if there was availability of classes from the training fund.
The Chief replied stating that they attend some, and in house training needed to be stepped up considering homeland security
issues and the mandate for tactical shooting next year.
Commissioner Walters asked the Town Manager for clarification on the Workers Compensation line item for $25,000. He indicated
that he was aware of one officer on workers compensation and wanted to know if this expense was the normal premium, or what is
due the officer on the benefit. The Town Manager replied that it was the premium and the figure was based on the officer that was
out on Workers Compensation. Commissioner Walters continued asking what the status of that employee was. He indicated
that the officer will eventually meet "maximum level of improvement" and the employee will receive a settlement which will impact
on the cost, and because they are claiming the injury was while they were on the job it will mean an additional retirement benefit
at 50%.
Commissioner Walters continued and asked about the budget line item for uniforms. He indicated that this year was budgeted
for $5,000 the projected spending will be $3,000 and you are asking for $6,500 for next year. Commissioner Walters asked the
Chief for an explanation of the increase. The Chief responded stating that many line items are under the projected spending, this
is a direct result of controlling spending in areas the Chief could control knowing there would be a shortfall in court fines. He
continues stating that uniforms would need to be replaced this year and that prices have not gone down.
Vice Mayor Wilson indicated that he had talked with the Chief one to one and the questions he had was if the costs for overtime
on events are being doubled? The Town Manager indicated that in some areas, funding for overtime is provided but he believed
that any duplication was eliminated. Vice Mayor Wilson indicated that there would be just as many events this year as there
was last. The Town Manager indicated that he had addressed generating revenue where possible to offset some of the expenses
where non-residents attend functions. It is anticipated that revenue from Parks Board activities falls short about $7,000. Some
of the reasons for that is that some of the activities are focused on just residents of the Town.
Vice Mayor Wilson, continued stating that the Chief had given him data regarding the starting salary entry level is a subject of
concern. The Town Manager replied that the Commission had directed him to return before the end of the fiscal year a salary
plan and/or adjustment. He indicated that he anticipated that any changes would be completed within the guides of the
approved budget.
Commissioner Price asked the Chief the number of vehicles currently in the police department. The Chief indicated that there
were seven vehicles. The Commissioner asked if one would be retired and replaced with the new one. The Chief responded
that that was correct. Commissioner Price also asked about the fuel line item. He stated that the budget figure for fuel and
oil would go from $17,000 to $20,000. The Chief responded stating that this was guess based on the costs of fuel bills for the
last several months.
Commissioner Price then asked about the budget for police pensions. He asked how the figure of $103,000 was determined.
The accountant responded that the figure was based on the letter from the actuary. It is based on the expected benefits to be
paid out. Commissioner Price stated that this figure represents a considerable rate increase and wanted to know if the actuary
explained this increase. The accountant replied that there was two explanations the first being that salaries generally go up,
people get older and there is a shorter time period for funding and most importantly the investments have the did not have the
same rate of return of 8%. Commissioner Prices stated that when you compare the total of police salaries of $408,000 and the
pension of $103, 122 it is a significant cost. The accountant indicated that it would continue because of the earnings assumption,
we will have to pay more. Commissioner Prices continued stating that as employees of the police department retire we have to
pay attention to be sure that the benefits they receive are what they are entitled to. The Accountant indicated that the projections
are what need to be watched.
Commissioner Guglietta inquired about the type of vehicle the Chief was considering for purchase. The Chief replied stating that
there are three police package vehicles available, a Crown Victoria, the Chevy Impala, and the Dodge Charger. The Chief stated
that he had not seen the Charger, or what the bid price and standards are but if it were acceptable he would go with that, if not
he would purchase the Crown Victoria.
Commissioner Guglietta continued asking about a 3% cost of living increase in the pension. Commissioner Walters replied
stating that there is an increase up to age 62. He also indicated that the Commission could eliminate that if they choose.
The Accountant continued stating that the biggest contributor to the problem is that the investments are not earning 8%.
Commissioner Walters stated for the record that the State contributes to the pension fund, the police officers contribute 5%
of their own money, the money is invested and currently for the last several years, they raised the projection from 6% to 8%
annual return. Now that the stock market is falling, the estimate has not been reduced so now the town is paying more. He
continued stating the Accountant is correct that the investments are just not performing as anticipated but also that the
Commission increased benefits by a four to one vote that was an additional $6,000 per year to give a benefit. Then people
retire with large amounts of vacation time and this increases pension benefits. You do not want that to happen. The Manager
can keep that from happening. Town based on actuarial makes up the difference between state and the employee contributions.
The Town paid $87,000 last year, which was based on incorrect information when the Commission increased the pension benefit
at that time.
Commissioner Walters continued that there is approximately 1.8 million dollars in the pension fund now. Hopefully when this
fund begins to draw a better return it will reduce the cost for the Town. In 1979, there was $11,000 in the Police Pension Fund
drawing 2% interest. The Town had forfeited years of state revenue. The state provided 1% of every insurance policy sold in the
Town of Melbourne Beach to the pension fund. The town never claimed it. Since then the funds have been claimed and there is
currently 1.8 million in funds. He continued stating that the Town Employees pension plan is still drawing 2%. Consequently,
the town is paying 5% and getting hardly any return. These are some of the ways we can correct. You can make sure that
when people retire they do not retire with a large amount of vacation time and sick time.
Commissioner Walters asked the Chief about the type of costs associated with the SUV. The Chief replied that recently there
was a repair in the amount of $300 for repairs as the vehicle was overheating. The Chief continued that the difference between an
SUV and a Crown Vic is that one is police car and one is not. The Crown Vic is equipped as a police car. Officers spend
12 hours per day in the car and we need to make them comfortable.
Commissioner Walters continued stating that the SUV was $5,000 more per vehicle than the Crown Vic. He continued that
the former Chief had purchased them and that there was a higher cost to maintain, and repair them and a higher probability of
roll over. Commissioner Walters asked if one of the vehicles were used for volunteers. The Chief replied that it was a correct
statement but currently it is being used for our code enforcement volunteer.
Commissioner Walters continued that a number of changes were made to the budget last year including the elimination of a
4th supervisor. That was changed midyear because of an officer leaving. He indicated that it was again in the budget to have
an additional sergeant
The Chief replied that the department is fairly young and inexperienced staff. Without direct supervision, you are opening up
yourself to liability. You need accountability on every shift. Having four supervisors you have this. Commissioner Walters
indicated that previously the average was about 15 years of experience. The Chief stated that with starting salaries low you
cannot get experienced officers. Commissioner Walters stated that four years ago the Commission stated that whenever
employees got a raise the starting salary would be raised that much. This has gotten lost the shuffle. The starting salary
probably would have been at the competitive rate had this been done of the last four years.
Chief indicated that when he began his position the starting salary was at $28,000. He also indicated that with the 2% COLA
raise received last year the salary increased to approximately $28,500, which is still not competitive considering other
municipalities, are increasing between 5 and 8%.
Commissioner Walters stated that he believed that the above-mentioned plan was implemented with the salary plan. The
Chief responded that there need to be some changes. The Town Manager indicated that his direction was to come back
with recommendations for implementation in the 2006 Budget.
Marty Remark questioned the incorrect figures by the actuarial. Commissioner Walters responded stating that the correct
figures were there, the Commission was not informed.
He continued stating that he voted no at that time because he felt the Commission did not have all the information and figures.
He also stated that he had attended a pension board meeting where the figures were presented by the actuarial and were told
that the town would have to pay approximately $56,000 but in fact, when the actuarial submitted it to the Town the figure had
jumped to $87,000. Commissioner Walters also stated that he had reported to the Commission that the Town was in violation
of State Law for missing a deadline and had to pay a penalty in addition.
Ms. Remark also asked if there was a benefit to having our own fuel tank. The Town Manager responded that there are two
sources, the county tanks at station 64 so we are already getting the best prices we also have an arrangement with Citgo
getting good rates there and deduct taxes.
Commissioner Walters commented that the town had a tank in the past and when it leaked, there was a significant cost for
environmental cleanup.
The consensus of the Commission was that there is no benefit to having its own tank. There were no further questions and
the Commission moved on to the Fire Department.
Fire Department
The Town Manager reported that the Fire Department recently employed maintenance person. He also stated that the budget
was largely unchanged from the existing year.
Commissioner Walters stated that there was full time maintenance budgeted in 2004, the in 2005-budget maintenance is at 1/2
but in it is going up to $14,000. The Town Manager responded stating that the position was vacant and not filled until April of
this year.
Commissioner Price asked the Fire Chief if there was anything he wanted to bring to the Commissions attention. The Chief
responded that there was nothing. Commissioner Guglietta asked if there was a match for the FEMA grants. The Chief
responded that there was a 10% match.
Commissioner Price stated that the Department has up to date modern equipment. The Chief stated that the FEMA grants
have provided equipment and that they will be using those funds to purchase radios and hoses and nozzles.
Commissioner Guglietta inquired as to the age of the fire truck? The Chief responded that it was a couple years younger
than the one that they had just gotten rid of. The truck will have a pump test the following week.
Jean Marshall questioned if any funds from FEMA had been received for the town. The Town Manager responded stating
that no funds have been received to date. He also indicated that he had met with FEMA and that representatives from FEMA
would be arriving in town soon.
Commissioner Price asked the Town Manger how much funding we would receive from FEMA. The Town Manager responded
that we could probably expect $30,000 and that there are still several projects that need to be completed namely repairs to
the pier and the Town would be looking to FEMA for funds to complete that project.
Commissioner Price commented that FEMA is getting a reputation about being slow, and the Town needs to be staying on
top of them. The Town Manager indicated that he pushes the issue, but we are at the mercy of FEMA.
Commissioner Guglietta asked what an approximate cost of repair to the pier might be. The Town Manager responded that
he has not gotten estimates and that he has spoken to the contractor that built it and that it is not cost effective to repair it.
Marty Remark asked if the town pays for the Fire Marshall. The Town manager responded stating that the fees go directly
to the county. Ms. Remark also asked about the fact that there is not health insurance for the fire department. The Chief
indicated that there was a $25,000 death benefit provided. Ms. Remark commented that at one time there was health insurance.
The Chief commented that the department is a part-time department therefore there is no health insurance.
Commissioner Price asked that the Town Manager check to be sure that the life insurance coverage for the department
is in effect.
Commissioner Walters indicated that at the same time the Town Manger should look into the life insurance policy for the police.
$50,000 paid by the Town and the Federal pays $150,000
Commissioner Walters complimented the Town Manger for eliminating the fire Marshall last year saving the Town a considerable
amount of money.
There being no further comments or questions the Commission moved to the Protective Services budget.
Protective Services
The Town Manager indicated that the next item was the budget for the Building Official. This line item is unchanged from this
year. He stated that he had been actively pursuing to make an arrangement with the county where they would provide services
for us. The agreement to do so is with the county attorney and we are awaiting it from them. Mike Mc Cullen, who at one time
was the Town's Building Official is now the assistant at the county and is well aware of the needs of the town. If this were to
work out as anticipated, the County would be providing Building Official services for us on a daily basis.
Vice Mayor Wilson asked if any additional costs were anticipated. The Town Manager replied that he did not believe there would
be any costs above what was budgeted. The Town Manager indicated that they are ready to meet.
The Mayor indicated that this would be an overall savings to the Town.
The Town Manager stated that the most important thing is that we have a level of service acceptable to the residents.
Vice Mayor Wilson asked what will happen if something goes wrong and the arrangement with the County does not work. The
Town Manager responded that we would then remain in the situation of a part time building official. We do not have a need for
a building official.
Commissioner Price indicated that the County should be willing and able to provide this service for us. He added that another
possibility might be to collaborate with other small municipalities and a group can purchase a full time official.
The Town Manager stated that at one time we had a good situation with Indialantic. They have a full time one now.
There were no further comments or questions and the Commission moved to the Parks Board Budget.
Parks Board
The Town Manager directed the Commission to page 13 of the proposed budget. This was to bring attention to the funding
of $1,000 for Williams Building, and $8,000 for Ryckman House.
Marty Remark asked if there was any funding for the Post Office. Commissioner Price stated that there was none listed,
but that he was under the impression that the Post Office was going to be moved. The Town Manager responded that he
had heard nothing from the postal service. There was a suggestion by the Historical Board to move the building to a place
in the park near the gazebo. There were no funds set aside for that structure.
Commissioner Price indicated that at the last meeting there was discussion regarding the elimination of one of the maintenance
workers. The Town Manager indicated that he had not removed it from the budget and that based on the direction by the
Commission a draft of job specs will be prepared and advertise. Once that is completed, it would be returned to you with
a recommendation.
Commissioner Walters stated that at the original meeting on July 27, 2005 it was suggested that the Town install 100
parking meters. At the same time the Town Manager stated that if the projections were correct (about $60,000) the Town
could hire a meter enforcement officer and have them also perform the duties of code enforcement officer at the same time.
Commissioner Walters continued stating that at the next meeting, August 4, 2005 that he had recommended that a new
position facilities manager be created. He stated that he would like to discuss the issue of meters more.
At this time, Marty Remark commented that since pier maintenance is taken out of the public works budget and the pier is
under national historic register, should the pier come under historic structures? Commissioner Guglietta responded that he
had requested he wanted a separate line item for this. Commissioner Price indicated that no funds were set aside for pier
maintenance. The Public Works Superintendent responded stating that he did not anticipate any cost for maintenance
other than what was to be received from FEMA. He also indicated that any minor work that needs to be complete is taken
from the line item ground maintenance.
Mrs. Remark asked if the pier could be moved to the historic structures line item even if no funds were budgeted. Commissioner
Guglietta felt that it was a good suggestion, and Vice Mayor Wilson agreed. The Town Manger responded stating that $500
was budgeted last year and the funds were not used.
Commissioner Walters recommended that some type of protective material be placed on the tables and on the rails of the pier
so that so that they can just be wiped off. The Commission agreed and the Town Manger will look into finding some type of
material to use so that clean up is easier.
The Town Manager indicated that the Parks Board had met and submitted recommendations. They requested $5000 capital
outlay to do repairs to playground equipment. It is not known how that figure was arrived at. The Town Manager continued
stating that the requests he received were as follows: Founders day $17,500, and repairs to the play ground $5,000. Bruce
Black stated that there was rust on the wells and some of that $5,000 and the replacement of some of the picnic tables are
in disrepair. Most of the expense would be to replace the picnic tables with recycled plastic tables as well as some gas grills,
and repairs to the playground and possible new equipment. The picnic tables run approximately $649 each.
Commissioner Guglietta asked if the Town Manager could obtain an itemized list so that the Commission can know where
and on what the funds will be expended.
Commissioner Walters suggested that the tables be placed on concrete slabs. He indicated that he had counted 10 tables
that would need 10 slabs. The Public Works Superintendent replied that Public Works poured slabs for tables in Ryckman Park
and the slabs are easier and increase life of the table. Commissioner Walters also commented that some of the benches also
need to be replaced. Bruce Black indicated that he will get detailed list.
Commissioner Price commented that when the park was originally renovated there were donations made to put plaques in the
park he wanted to know if that was going to be completed.
Bruce Black indicated that the people, who attended the meeting, were not sure who donated the funds and did not have
the information.
Commissioner Guglietta stated that when the parks were being constructed it was suggested that that plaques be placed on the
benches for each of the people that donated. Mr. Collins was in charge of that project, and some things fell through the cracks.
Commissioner Guglietta stated that he believes the records are still available in Town Hall.
Bruce Black also stated that the turn out for movies in the park has not been significant. He asked that $1000 be budgeted but
he believes that at the time it is not worth it to have movies in the park continue.
Commissioner Guglietta mentioned that in the Police Chiefs list of activities there is mention of the Iceman's Ball. Commissioner
Guglietta stated that he did not see this item anywhere in the budget. The Town Manager responded that the Iceman's ball was
expected to be held again and that it is sponsored by the Rotary Club.
The Mayor asked if picnic tables could possibly be placed at Riverview Park.
Commissioner Walters commented that the Parks Board does a wonderful job, and there are a significant number of events in
the community. Commissioner Walters believes that the Town should ask the residents if they want to continue to hold these
events. He indicated that the Chief stated he could not provide enough officers to staff these events. The Chief responded
stating that he had attended the joint meeting of the Parks Board and the Commission. He continued stating that 4th of July
had over 5000 people in attendance, and in order to staff events as such the Town had two options. The first being to double the
size of the police department or to contract with possibly Indialantic or the Sheriffs department for additional officers.
Commissioner Walters believes that once you have an event it starts out small and just keeps growing each year. He felt that
the biggest issues to be addressed are if the events can be self-supporting or if the Town should do something to get a response
from the resident to see if they want this number of events to continue. Commissioner Price indicated that he remembered part of
that meeting and it was stated that these events would not take place without the Chief being invited to the planning sessions,
and at that, time decisions would be made based on what event would take place and the requirements for such events including
how they would be paid for. Commissioner Price felt that many of these events could be used to raise funds with a bit of creative
planning so that the expenses can cover themselves and the costs of the additional police officers.
Commissioner Walters responded stating that once the Parks Board makes a decision., meets with the police chief, brings it to
the Town Manager, then it will come to the Commission for approval of the plan. The members of the Commission were in
agreement that this is the process that should be followed.
Commissioner Guglietta suggested the possibility of putting a survey in the beachcomber.
Commissioner Walters stated that there are two historical plaques moved from the old building that need to be put in the display
case. The Town Manager stated that they were in his office and that they are too heavy to be placed in the display case. He
stated that his intent was to mount the plaques and the one for the dedication of this building to be hung once bids are placed
to do so.
The Town Manger also stated that the bulletin board construction begins within 10 days.
Vice Mayor Wilson stated when he first took his Commission seat Founders Day cost approximately $ 11,000. Currently we
are asking for $17,000 and he felt that there was really noting different. His question is why is it continually going up. Mr. Black
indicated that it just costs more to do things and that the goal is to made this event self-sufficient.
Vice Mayor Wilson questioned if the town is fronting the money and then raising revenues. Bruce Black indicated that that
was what took place, the Town lends the Parks Board the funds and they are paid back as a result of vendor fees, etc.
Jean Marshall suggested that the costs for the events be placed in the Beachcomber along with Commissioner Guglietta
suggestion about a survey this way the residents have an idea of what these events cost.
There was no further discussion regarding the budget for the Parks Board.
It was brought up that the Environmental Board has a small amount of funding (approximately $300) which should be placed
in the Public Works budget. The Town Manager felt that the funding was not significant enough for an individual line item and
was therefore placed in Public Works.
At this time, Mayor Stacey called a 5-minute recess.
Mayor Stacey indicated that he had suggested that the Parking Meters be placed on the agenda for the Regular Commission
Meeting. Commissioner Walters stated that he would like to discuss this issue at this meeting. The Mayor agreed.
Stormwater Utility Fund
Mayor Stacey asked that the Town Manager explain this subject. The Town Manger indicated that the number one project in
master plan was the basin 9 improvements. He indicated that the Town had received $75,000 from the Walters Management
District for this project. He continued stating that there was another grant $263,000 but we did not receive approval for those
funds. Currently, the Department of Community Affairs are 2 grants for $461.000 and one for $90,000 for the Anchor and
Pelican Lane area. The Grant for $90,000 would require a $30,000 match from the town and the Basin 9 would require the
difference of approximately $154,000 from the town. Expenses are expected to be $615,000 and $120,000 in grants for projects.
The figures of $461,000 and $90,000 are anticipated revenue.
If the Town is successful in getting those grants the town will spend $735,000 out of the $824,000 projected to be in the storm
water utility. It will leave just under $90,000 available for repairs or other projects that the Commission may choose to address.
Commissioner Walters indicated that many changes were made last year. He stated that according to the documents, at the
end of the year there would be approximately $40,000. The Town Manger indicated that that would be in the General Fund.
The Town Manager indicated that the funds set out on page 15 of the Budget document stands alone. They have no impact
on the General Fund Budget.
Commissioner Walter wanted to know if FEMA had indicated that the Town would definitely receive the grant funds. He asked
what was budgeted this year. The Town Manger responded that there were no funds budgeted for this year without the grant.
He continued that if we did not receive the grants we will have available $144,000 carried forward, we will get $54,000 this year
plus the $75,000 from St. Johns Water Management. The Town Manager continued that the revenues are anticipated. You
will have nearly $200,000 in utility fees alone.
Commissioner Walters asked what happened to the $100,000 that was taken from the General Revenue fund? The Town
Manger responded that it was under the 2005 projected it was the top figure of 101,000. It has not been spent. Commissioner
Price indicated that the funds needed to be separated between the storm water fund and the general fund. Commissioner
Walters indicated that there was an e-mail that said the funds were taken out of the reserve fund and placed in the storm
water fund. The Town Manager stated that you took general fund savings account. We went back 2 years it was funds that
had been charged to the utility funds from 2003 and 2004 they were closed funds we took and recaptured it and relieved the
general fund. The general fund was still overspending so we went to reserves and took money out.
Commissioner Price stated that in 2003/2004 we did not have a clean audit and money was being spend and in many cases
misapplied. The Tow was spending money for salaries and taking it and drawing down from the utility fund. When the audit
was properly completed the auditor indicated that the funds were applied the funds to the utility fund, but the Town was not
authorized to do so there for it had to be reapplied and it reduced your general fund. Now it is now being placed in its
proper place.
Commissioner Walters indicated that he believes that the funds in the savings account funds that can be spent. They are there
not to be touched except for an emergency.
Commissioner Price believes that when the commission makes a decision to spend we can only spend what we have.
The Town Manger indicated that what was taken from the general fund last year was approximately $27,000. He continued to
explain stating that the Town finished the year 2004 in operations $30,000 to the good. Combined with the 2 years recovering
in last years budget reflecting 2 years of the 3 years where salaries were charged to general fund obligation were being charged
to the storm water utility fund instead of the general fund. $60,000 was recovered in the 2004 budget and $30,000 was from
the reserves. The 30,000 to the good last year ended up being $30,000 to the negative because 60,000 was being recovered
to restore the utility fund.
Commissioner Walters stated so that in 2003 spend $157,735 more than we budgeted, and in 2004 spend $109,623 more.
The Town Manager stated that those figures were the un-audited figures, the audited number is actually $30,000. The $30,000
to the negative included that $60,000 recovery to the storm water utility fund so this is really a positive figure of $30,000 in 2004.
The bottom line is that when I looked at the budge a year ago, I discussed with the auditor that the Town wanted to recover the funds.
There was nearly $50,000 per year of obligations being paid for out of the utility fund that should have been paid for out of the general
fund. So it made the general fund look smaller in expenditures than it actually was. We had to go back and get 3 years of those
funds. If we would have had excess revenues in 1 year then you could have taken that and put it in the storm water utility fund.
I believe that is what Commissioner Walter thought was happening.
Commissioner Prices stated that what is currently there is $143,990 plus projected 54,000 in the storm water utility fund. That is
because everything has been properly applied. The Town Manger indicated that the Commission made the decision to restore
the funds.
Jean Marshall asked where Basin 9 was.
The Town Manager responded that the outfall 6th Avenue.
There was no further discussion on the Storm Water Utility fund
Parking Meters
The discussion opened with Commissioner Walters questioning were parking meters would not be placed. He indicated that
he had counted 154 spots, but the Town Manager was indicating 100 spots. The Town Manager indicated that he did not count
any in front of Ryckman Park. He continued stating that Ocean Park 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th were 89 meters, Avenues A & B
made it just over 100, and I did not count the end of Ocean Avenue.
Commissioner Walters stated that he did not want to do anything until the resident's state that they want to do it. He stated that
he was personally for the meters. However, he did not want to do anything without the community approval.
Commissioner Walters continued stating that he counted about 150 meters. If the residents say go ahead, which is one reason
he suggested hiring a facilities manager to do this job, he believes that the projected revenue is too high, He suggested that the revenue
be lowered to $250 based on what he sees in regard to traffic. He believes we wait for the fist year while we do this, should we wait to
hire a full time person before we know what the revenue will be. That would be my suggestion. He indicated that he would like to see
the meters. Vice Mayor Wilson if there was a time limit on them. The Town Manager responded stating that he based all his figures
based on Indialantic's revenue. He indicated that their meters run 7 days a week and start 7:00 AM. Commissioner Walters stated
that the Town should budget conservatively.
Jean Marshall commented that she had a problem with the maintenance of the meters. The Town Manager responded that the
projections showed that we would have over $15,000 to be used for repaying the general fund for the meters and replacement
based on the same replacement schedule that Indialantic has. He continued that he agreed that starting with a part-time
person is a good idea.
Commissioner Walters stated again that he believed it was the resident's decision. Commissioner Price stated that important
thing is to let residents know they get a free sticker for every registered car. Commissioner Walters stated that he remembered
the problem with the traffic light, as it was not aesthetically pleasing, his fear is that the residents might feel the same way about
the meters.
Commissioner Prices suggested a community meeting, and Commissioner Walters suggested sending a letter to residents as
well as having a meeting.
Commissioner Guglietta agreed that the residents need to be informed of what the purpose is and what funds will be expended
for. He asked if fines were assessed would the Clerk of the Court receive part of the funds. The Chief replied that all fine money
would come to the town. The Town would get 100% of all the fines assessed.
Commissioner Guglietta agreed that a part time person is a good idea. Fund need to be paid to the Lifeguard and take that out
of the parks board, consider the average revenue of $300, and survey the residents with a non-binding poll.
Mayor Stacey asked the Commissioners if they wanted him to leave this item on the agenda for the regular meeting. The
Commission concurred that it should be removed for the time being.
Commissioner Walters indicated that we should push people down the beach to be sure they are near lifeguards. He stated
that he believed there should be signs posted at each entrance. The Public Works Superintendent stated that they were
already there.
Commissioner Price stated that a sign should be place where there are life guards on duty, to push them to the areas where
they are otherwise swim at your own risk.
Marty Remark explained that historically in the 80's there was talk about meters. The people felt that they paid enough
taxes and that the parks should be taken care of.
Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Walters
Second by Commissioner Guglietta
Motion unanimously carried.
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WILLIAM G. STACEY, MAYOR
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PATRICIA J. BURKE, CMC
TOWN CLERK
Note: a mechanical recording has been made of the foregoing procedures of which these minutes are a
part and is on file in the office of the Town Clerk.
PURSUANT TO SECTION 286.0105, FLORIDA STATUTES, THE TOWN HEREBY
ADVISES THE PUBLIC THAT: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the
Town Commission with respect to any matter considered at its meeting, he will need a
record of the proceedings and that for such purpose, affected persons may need to insure
that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony
and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. This notice does not constitute
consent by the Town for the introduction or admission into evidence of otherwise
inadmissible or irrelevant evidence, nor does it authorize challenges or appeals not
otherwise allowed by law.
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