Minutes 07-26-99 MINUTES OF SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING
HELD IN COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
ON MONDAY, JULY 26, 1999 AT 6:30 P.M.
PRESENT
Gerald Broening, Mayor
Henderson Tillman, Vice Mayor
William Sherman, Mayor Pro Tem
Nellie Denahan, Commissioner
Ronald Weiland, Commissioner
Wilfred Hawkins, Interim City Manager
Dale Sugerman, Assistant City Manager
Jim Cherof, City Attorney
Sue Kruse, City Clerk
Mayor Broening called the meeting to order at 6:42 p.m. and stated the purpose of the
meeting was to review the 1999/2000 Budget. Interim City Manager Hawkins took the
podium and introduced Ms. Diane Reese, the Finance Director and Ms. Mary Munro,
Budget Coordinator who will be presenting the budget. Mr. Hawkins stated the general
budget would be reviewed and a tentative millage adopted.
Mr. Hawkins said that last year the City adopted a rollback budget and this year staff is
not recommending a rollback budget and asked the Commission to refer to page 16
which shows the recommended millage of 8.2409 and last year's millage was
8.2668,
Last year the budget was
This year's proposed budget is
$37,890,795
$39,225,711
Thirty-one (31) staff positions are being requested; however, a great many of these
positions are already filled and several are brand new.
There was a consensus that questions would be asked after each department's budget
was reviewed.
Ms. Reese's presentation included displays of each appropriate budget page on the
overhead screen for viewing while the page was being reviewed and discussed.
The chart at the beginning of the budget shows the expenses per capita for each City
Department using a population figure of 53,635. Police and Fire Departments have the
greatest per capita of $218.79 and $135.12, respectively. To arrive at these figures, the
total expenses for the General Fund are divided by the population figure.
Page 1 shows that personnel in 1998 was 768 and this year 795 is being requested.
The millage rates on page 15 were reviewed.
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CITY COMMISSION
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JULY 26, 1999
deal with community promotions and marketing. This position would answer directly to
the City Manager's Office.
Mayor Pre Tem Sherman said he has concerns about the Architecture for Excellence
Program and that every budget includes funds for this Program. Mayor Pro Tem
Sherman requested that he be furnished with the overtime costs attributable to each
Department that participated in the Program and he would like this information at the
next City Commission meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Sherman already noted there was a
line item for training and Architecture of Excellence is an additional training,
Mr. Hawkins stated his Department would furnish this information to Mayor Pro Tem
Sherman. Mr. Hawkins stated that a presentation is being planned on Architecture for
Excellence for the September 7th Commission Meeting. Mr. Hawkins stated
approximately 45% of employees have already gone through the training. Mr. Hawkins
explained the purpose of Architecture for Excellence, which is being used to change the
"culture" of how this City works. Mr. Hawkins pointed out that Architecture for
Excellence is a mechanism to make the City run more like a business.
Mayor Broening requested that Mr. Hawkins present some successes of the program
when the presentation is made.
Vice Mayor Tillman suggested that the money earmarked for this program should be
moved into a contingency fund until the presentation is made at the September 7th
meeting. Vice Mayor Tillman said that the "pitch" should be made before putting the
money in. Mr. Hawkins said they could set these projected funds and set them aside.
Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the budget would not really be adopted until the second
meeting in September and up until that meeting any kind of changes can be made to
the budget.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman pointed out that the first $300,000 has been spent and that
only 45% of the employees have been trained. He was under the impression that all
employees would have been trained for $300,000 and now it looks like it is going to cost
around $700,000 to complete this training, plus other training.
Vice Mayor Tillman said that Mr. Hawkins needs to show how this Program fiscally
affects the organization, how it makes the organization more efficient and what is the
dollar value.
Commissioner Denahan pointed out that the people are our most important asset and
the Commission appreciates the hard work the employees perform and these
discussions in no way should make our employees feel any less important.
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JULY 26, 1999
Mr. Hawkins distributed to the Commission a comparative analysis of Boynton Beach
with other cities of comparable size. "Where the Money Comes From" on Page 17 was
reviewed. Forty-eight percent of the revenue comes from Ad Valorem Taxes and the
next largest revenue comes from Franchise Taxes of 12% and 10% comes from the
State.
Vice Mayor Tillman asked about the status of firms operating in the City that are not
paying franchise taxes. Vice Mayor Tillman asked if these fees were included in the
budget. Mr. Hawkins stated there is a separate line item in Sanitation, and this could be
examined when that Department's budget is reviewed. Mr. Hawkins said the City would
lose a considerable amount of sanitation fees if the City loses the sole right to run this
commercial business. This generates a great deal of revenue to the City which keeps
the sanitation rates even.
Ms. Reese pointed out that these are not franchise fees since the City is not allowing
these firms to operate in the City. If they were allowed to operate, they would have to
pay a franchise fee. Presently, the City does not allow outside companies to operate in
the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman stated there was a discrepancy in the number of new jobs
being created and asked how many new jobs the Commission is actually being asked to
consider.
Ms. Reese said there are 31 new positions, however all these 31 are not additional, as
they had been in the budget previously, they were deleted and now brought back into
the budget. They are not all brand new to the City, but they are brand new to the
budget this year and that total is 31.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if the personnel requests on Page 4 include salary
plus benefits and Mr. Hawkins said all figures are inclusive of benefits. Commissioner
Denahan said she has concerns about the commingling of CRA funds and resources
with the Community Development Department and has concerns about all the money
coming out of the TIF Revenues. Ms. Reese stated when the County remits the City's
Ad Valorem Taxes, they do not break out the TIF money and the City has to do this.
Therefore all the money is reported in the General Fund Budget Revenue and then the
transfer of the TIF into the CRA is shown.
Commissioner Weiland asked about the job responsibilities of the new position of
Director of Media and Public Communications. Mr. Hawkins said this position would
have a great deal of authority working with the media and would have its own budget to
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JULY 26, 1999
GENERALFUND
City Commission
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$ 97,121
105,172
Major Changes
Business meeting expenses increased to $15,000;
Phone charges are now indicated in individual departments and $2,400 has been
appropriated for the cellular phones and beepers;
City Manaqer
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$367,599
463,962
Major Changes
Addition of Director of Media and Public Relations at tol;al cost of $71,000
Business meetings are being increased to $20,000
/
Commissioner Denahan inquired who was the Director of Administrative Services. Mr.
Hawkins replied that is his title and staff is recommending changing his old title of
Manager of Support Services to this new title. Mr. Hawkins also noted there was a
mistake on the organizational chad on Page 26 and that the Manager of Media and
Public Communications would be reporting directly to the City Manager.
Commissioner Denahan also questioned the cost of the business meetings increasing
from $11,000 to $20,000. Mr. Hawkins stated with the new position of Director of Media
and Public Relations that person will need to participate in a great many more meetings
and the City Manager's Office will continue to pursue its professional development at
association meetings.
Commissioner Weiland inquired if there were any funds in the budget if it were
necessary to pay for relocation costs for the new City Manager, as well as severance
pay if that were necessary. Ms. Reese said these costs are not budgeted on a specific
line item, but included in the City Hall Budget as a contingency line item of $200,000 for
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JULY 26, 1999
these types of expenses. Ms. Reese stated the salary of the last City Manager is
included in the budget.
City Hall
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$2,878,584
2,327,398
Major Changes
Unemployment costs have been decreased by $15,000.
Postage costs have been decreased by $9,000.
Copy machine rental has been deleted since all copy machine costs are being borne
by the individual Department and each Department is responsible for their own
costs. This is a decrease of $65,000.
The printing budget has been increased by $32,000.
Community promotion account has been increased by $5,000.
Transfers into the self-insurance fund have been decreased by $370,000. The self-
insurance fund has sufficient funds for this year.
Contribution to Human Services has been increased by $10,000.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman inquired if there is a cost for a person paying their water bill by
having the funds directly withdrawn from their checking account and if this is budgeted.
Ms. Reese said there is a fee, but presently the City does not do this. If this is done and
the customer arranges for it, the customer assumes the cost. Ms. Reese said that the
use of debit cards is being looked at and there is a fee. Since she does not know the fee
costs, it is not included in the budget. Ms. Reese stated if money was needed to cover
the fees, it would come from the Water and Sewer Budget.
Commissioner Denahan inquired about the upgrades that took place in order for the
City to provide better printing services. Mr. Hawkins said that the new printer is being
used to print messages on the water bill and is not an overall printing solution. If the
printer were to be used for the overall printing solution, the purchase of additional
software would be required. Currently, the printer is limited to only three colors.
Commissioner Denahan pointed out that when the Commission agreed to purchase the
printer, it was being purchased as an overall solution to the City's printing costs.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if Community Promotions would be the account if
funds were to be allocated to specific Boards. Mr. Hawkins said it could be.
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JULY 26, 1999
Commissioner Denahan asked why there were no funds being allocated to the Fa(;ade
Program this year.
Dale Sugerman, Assistant City Manager reported that last year $50,000 was placed in
the budget for the Fa~;ade Program. To date, there have been four applications for the
Facade Program. Two have been completed and two are still pending. Approximately
$17,000 has been encumbered for those improvements. Whatever remains from the
$50,000 will be placed into a reserve account and the Program will continue and no
additional money will be added to the Program.
Commissioner Denahan asked Mr. Sugerman to determine the exact balance is in the
account. Mr. Sugerman also pointed out that the City's 25% match from the C.O.R.E.
program also comes from these funds. Commissioner Denahan asked how the City
would match future C.O.R.E. grants. The money would come from Economic
Development Money and is in the CRA reserve account.
Ms. Reese said there is $25,000 in the reserve account and there is still a $50,000 set
aside in the current year's budget, so there is $75,000 available for the Fagade Program
or C.O.R.E. grant match.
City Clerk
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$360,698
378,741
Major Changes
Purchase of a new printer for $8,860.
Finance Department
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$459,504
534,491
Major Changes
Addition of another accountant for $39,500
Other professional services, which are contracted out, increased by $5,000.
Audit fees are increasing $5,7000.
Architecture for Excellence will cost $4,000.
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JULY 26, '1999
Procurement Services
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$201,185
271,048
Major Changes
A payment to the Director who will be retiring in December has been included in the
amount of $35,000.
ITS
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$700,055
960,194
Major Changes
Addition of an ITS Director for $99,750.
Decrease in other professional services by $17,000.
Office repairs for $21,000.
Computer maintenance is increasing by $55,000.
Software maintenance is increasing an additional $17,000
Decrease of $23,000 in contractual services.
Increase of new computer equipment of $41,000.
Mr. Hawkins reported that the City maintains its own computer lab for training
employees to keep employees up to date on new technology. The purpose of hiring a
new ITS Director is necessary for the City to keep pace. Commissioner Weiland
questioned why there was no one in house to fill this position and also that the City has
hired an outside firm to assist ITS. Would this be eliminated? Mr. Hawkins said this
would result in a decrease in contractual services.
Commissioner Sherman questioned the amount for training nine employees at $8,000
each for one year. Mr. Hawkins said this type of training is expensive and the training
needs to be specific. Mr. Hughes also noted this includes training for the entire City,
including the in-house lab, which is run through South Technical Institute for an on-site
trainer. Mr. Hughes said that technical training for the Department itself runs about
$3,000 per employee. Ms. Reese said that $46,000 is for South Technical Training
Program.
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JULY 26, 1999
Human Resources
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$582,243
551,672
Major Changes
Cost for an additional trainer is $41,100.
Career Development has been decreased by $106,000.
Mr. Lee informed the Commission that the career development program entitled the
Boynton Beach University Program was instituted for employees. However, the program
needed to have an in-house professional to facilitate the program. Mr. Lee stated that
the $106,000 was for Architecture for Excellence, as well as some career development
programs.
Commissioner Denahan questioned only $7,000 being budgeted for college tuition
reimbursement. Mr. Lee said the program needs to be marketed to encourage more
employee participation.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman questioned the expense for an AFE trainer and asked if this
was for Architecture for Excellence and this would be a way to curtail the costs of that
Program by bringing someone on board to support the team theory. Mayor Pro Tem
Sherman asked how much was funded for this position and was informed Utilities and
Sanitation would each pay $39,900 each. Mayo Pro Tem Sherman therefore noted that
there would be two additional employees--one for $41,000 for the centralized City
training and another for $70,000 for the AFE Trainer. Ms. Reese stated the AFE
Trainer position would cost $80,000.
Communications
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,337,329
1,392,176
Major Changes
4- Overtime increased by $27,000
4. Telephone services increased by $41,000
4- Computer maintenance increased by $24,000.
· :. Radio repairs decreased by $28,000
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Architecture for Excellence will cost $10,000.
Commissioner Denahan said she is concerned about the turnover in communications
and the high stress level of these positions. Commissioner Denahan inquired if it were
possible to put a cap on the overtime expense.
Mr. Hawkins said the only way to put a cap on overtime is to have a full complement of
employees, which is the goal of the Department. Mr. Hawkins said consideration is
being given to raise the compensation to get qualified candidates.
City Attorney
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$344,899
366,834
Major Changes
Increase in outside attorneys' fees of $18,000.
Decrease in labor legal fees of $5,000.
Police Department
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$11,422,467
11,734,918
Major Changes
Decrease in overtime of $50,000.
Decrease in computer rental of $8,900.
Cellular phones have been increased by $6,200.
Equipment maintenance has increased by $26,500.
Software maintenance has increased by $29,750.
Other contractual services have increased by $20,000.
Training has increased by $20,000.
Architecture for Excellence has budgeted $13,000.
General Equipment (Capital Outlay) increased by $56,000.
Computer Equipment increased by $37,000.
Commissioner Denahan asked how many vehicles were being leased for the COP
Program and was informed there are seven. Mr. Mike Munro said there is money
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JULY 26, 1999
available for possibly two more vehicles. Commissioner Denahan asked about the old
fleet vehicles and Mr. Munro said they would only be used as a back up and the two
additional vehicles are included in the budget. Mr. Hawkins requested Mr. MUnro to
step up to the podium. Mr. Munro introduced himself and stated Chief Gage was
attending a conference and could not be present this evening. Commissioner
Denahan said this is a tremendous program and wants to see it keep growing. Currently
there are seven programs with new care and two more are anticipated for this year and
are adequate for the City's current needs.
Commissioner Weiland stated he did not see any monies being budgeted for new
personnel and Mr. Munro stated that was correct. Commissioner Weiland asked if the
overtime amount could be budgeted for hiring new officers and thereby eliminating
some of the overtime expense.
Matt Immler, Assistant Police Chief addressed the Commission and said he has only
been in the Department for three months and there are no officers who do not want to
work overtime and overtime is an integral part of any police department. Assistant Chief
Immler stated the City saves more money by paying overtime than hiring new
personnel. There are many expenses that are incurred with new hires. Assistant Chief
Immler said a work analysis needs to be done before it can be determined how many
officers are actually needed.
Vice Mayor Tillman pointed out that at some point the Department would be
undermanned if new staff is not added as other staff leaves. Assistant Chief Immler
stated that it appears existing staff currently can handle the workload. Vice Mayor
Tillman inquired what the Police Department is doing in terms of recruitment.
Mr. Munro said the Police Department lost nine officers at the early buy-out within a
two-month period. New officers must go through a training period and currently there
are six to eight new trainees. Mr. Munro stated that by head count, they are four
officers down, but there are six or eight that are paired up for training.
Assistant Chief Immler stated that the Department advertises through publications,
going to colleges and going through professional organizations in trying to get qualified
candidates.
Vice Mayor Tillman inquired how many officers were recruited this year. Mr. Munro said
there are four officers doing in-house training and there is another officer coming on
board next week. Vice Mayor Tillman said he had asked for a report on recruitment
several years ago and has not seen one report on recruitment. Vice Mayor Tillman said
if the City had a viable program, personnel would be coming into the City and being
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JULY 26, 1999
maintained. Assistant Chief Immler stated 81 applications were received and there is no
problem in getting applicants and there is an active applicant pool of approximately 14
people.
Commissioner Denahan inquired why computer maintenance increased by $27,000 and
Assistant Chief Immler stated this was because of an increase in the contracts to
maintain the software. Commissioner Denahan asked why the software expenses
doubled and was informed there is a new system in place.
Commissioner Denahan asked if the Police Department, which is a quasi-military
department, is really suitable for Architecture for Excellence Training. Commissioner
Denahan asked Assistant Chief Immler for his opinion of the Architecture training, who
stated this training was offered in the Agency where he was previously employed and it
did not do well and was not well received. In a quasi-military environment the structure
is different and police mentality is not conducive to that type of program.
Mr. Hawkins stated that as a former police officer this is an experiment to come up with
a different kind of thinking within the police department. Mr. Hawkins said that it should
at least be tried in order to raise the level of how police officers do their job.
Commissioner Denahan felt that the $13,700 for this training could be better spent on
other types of training.
Commissioner Denahan asked if there was enough being done in terms of college
tuition reimbursement. Mr. Munro said that any officer that wants to pursue a college
education, the Police Department would pay for it.
Vice Mayor Sherman inquired why no funds were budgeted last year for Architecture for
Excellence for the Police Department and Mr. Munro said it was budgeted last year
through Human Resources and there were only two meetings last year for the top level.
Vice Mayor Sherman asked why the training increased from $68,000 to $102,000
without increasing manpower. The Police Department is getting new officers and this
type of training cannot be provided in-house and it is important to keep all police officers
up-dated with the latest training trends.
Mayor Broening pointed out that the Program must be tailored to meet the specific
needs of the Police Department if it is to be successful and is not that optimistic that it
would do well in the Police Department.
Commissioner Weiland inquired about the $87,000 being paid for incentive pay. This is
used to encourage officers to get their college education and receive certification and
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JULY 26, 1999
the maximum amount an officer could receive on a monthly basis would be $125. Mr.
Hawkins said that this is now State mandated.
Vice Mayor Tillman noted that the largest amount of the budget goes towards the Police
Department and wants to know why the Department has these deficiencies and wants
to become accredited. Mr. Munro stated one of the problems is the starting salary of
$31,000. Other agencies are starting at $34,000 up to $38,000 and there are step
programs in place. The City does not have this at the present time. The police officers
were used to the old step plan, plus the cost of living increase.
Mr. Hawkins said that they think they have reached a tentative agreement and are
working out the details now. This will be brought before the Commission at their next
meeting to address the pay issue. Commissioner Weiland inquired if this was in writing
and was informed it was.
Assistant Police Chief Immler stated that there are enough officers on the force to be
able to respond to the needs of the residents and said when the new system is in place
he is going to perform a detailed analysis to determine if more people are needed.
Also, Assistant Police Chief lmmler explained that a great deal of the overtime is
attributable to an officer's continuation of assignment. This means that when an officer
responds to a call minutes before his shift is over, the officer must continue on the call
until it can be brought to a close. This provides consistency in the investigation.
Commissioner Weiland inquired if the City should determine what the cost would be to
determine if more than 134 officers are needed. Assistant Chief Immler said he could
perform the study once the new system is on line, which should be available in the next
couple of months.
Code Compliance
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$496,006
458,909
Major Changes
Decrease in budget is due to no new capital outlay this year.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if more staff was needed for Code Compliance. Mr.
Hawkins stated that first they are looking to see how the current staff is deployed and
how to make them more effective. Mr. Hawkins pointed out that in the Public Works
Budget he did request a Code Compliance employee to deal specifically with sanitation
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issues. Commissioner Denahan felt that this Department needs more employees so
that the Codes can be enforced equitably throughout the City and the same areas are
continually targeted.
Scott Blasie, Code Compliance Administrator took the podium and stated that his staff
does keep statistics and other cities do not. Mr. Blasie stated that staff attends a great
deal of neighborhood meetings, which means staff is not attending to their job during
the day. Mr. Blasie said they were going to look at deployment strategies. Also, Mr.
Blasie said that if Public Works hires a sanitation person, he would get that employee
back, which Mr. Hawkins confirmed would be the case.
Commissioner Denahan inquired about the staff on cities of comparable size. Mr. Blasie
stated he did some research and the ratio in Boynton Beach per resident is 1 to 7,195,
whereas Delray Beach is 1 to 5,941, Lake Worth is 1 to 4,157 and Lantana is 1 to 2,125
residents. Also, Mr. Blasie stated he is filling the Chief Code Compliance position that
had been eliminated and this would bring the City's ratio in line with Delray Beach.
Mr. Hawkins also pointed out that the City is developing neighborhood plans and
associations. Residents are being encouraged to take more responsibility for their
property and take more ownership of their neighborhoods. Mayor Pro Tem Sherman
said the Code Compliance and Police should be complimented for extra personnel.
Animal Control
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$118,325
126,255
Major Changes
There are no major changes in this Division.
A RECESS WAS DECLARED AT 8:50 P.M.
THE MEETING RECONVENED AT 9:10 P.M.
After discussion it was determined that the meeting would continue.
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Fire Department
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$7,246,663
7,247,394
Major Changes
An additional $50,152 has been included for new personnel.
Other contractual services increased by $19,000.
Operating Equipment increased by $12,000.
Uniforms increased by $9,000
Medical supplies increased by $8,000
Training increased by $22,000
Architecture of Excellence was budgeted at $10,000.
Commissioner Denahan asked Chief Bingham to present statistics on how well the
City's Fire Department performs. Chief Bingham presented comparisons of Boynton
Beach to Delray Beach and Boca Raton. Boynton has 103.5 people budgeted
compared to Delray Beach which has 138 and Boca Raton has 161 personnel.
Commissioner Denahan commended the Fire Department for its great work.
Commissioner Sherman asked why the training increased from $29,000 to $63,000.
Chief Bingham said most of the increase in the training is due to the fact that continuing
education costs have increased. South Technical will no longer be available for training
and training will now take place at Palm Beach Community College at a substantial cost
increase.
Commissioner Weiland inquired if controlled burns are budgeted. Chief Bingham stated
this is not something the Fire Department would normally budget. Usually the Parks
Department would include this in their budget. Mr. Wildner said that no funds have
been allocated for controlled burns. However, if there were controlled burns to take
place at the Hester Scrub, it would be a minimal cost because of its small size. With
regard to the Seacrest Scrub, this is the County's responsibility. One controlled burn
has already taken place and there probably will not be another for several years.
Development Department (Support Services)
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$208,699
231,435
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JULY 26, 1999
Major Changes
*:o The cost of one-half of additional personnel for $12,000 to be shared with the new
Engineering Division.
o:o There is an increase for office building improvements of $14,000.
Development Department (Buildin,g Department)
Current Year's Budget- $ 836,007
Proposed Budget - 1,123,905
Major Changes
*:o The Permit Application Division has been included this year, which accounts for the
large increase in the budget.
.:. Overtime has increased by $17,000.
-:- Car allowance budget for inspectors has increased by $8,100.
Commissioner Denahan asked if there was a major reorganization taking place within
the Department. Ms. Byrne said that the only change was including the permit
Application Division and there are some title changes that will be taking place.
Mayor Broening noted six people would be coming over from the Permit Division.
Development Department (Enqineering Department)
Current Year's Budget - $263,689
Proposed Budget- 968,958
Major Changes
-:o This is a newly created Department, which includes new personnel of $361,745.
-.'* Transferred personnel from Utilities and Sanitation is $210,000.
.:. Architecture for Excellence for $12,000.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman asked where the majority of the 31 new personnel were going
to be placed. Ms. Reese stated a large majority would be going into this Engineering
Department. Ms. Reese said that 6 new people would be coming into the Department
and the remainder are transfers.
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Mr. Sugerman distributed to the Commission a Summary Analysis of new personnel for
this Department that he had prepared. The Analysis shows which employees are
transferred employees and which employees are new. Actually, there are five new
positions and ten are coming from other departments. Mr. Sugerman stated that of the
31 new employees, only five are from the Engineering Department.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman did not feel the City could justify hiring this many personnel for
an Engineering Department. Mr. Sugerman said currently there are five major
construction and community improvement projects scheduled for the next three years
and the City does not have the necessary staff on Board to handle these projects.
These are major construction projects associated with the Visions 20/20 Program. Mr.
Sugerman also pointed out that the City has spent a great deal of money for consulting
engineers and this expense will now be eliminated with in-house personnel. The City
purchased $327,543 for consulting-engineering services.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman asked where the other 26 new employees were coming from.
Mr. Sugerman said he would provide the Commission with a Summary of where the 31
employees are coming from. Also, Ms. Reese pointed out that all 31 positions are new
dollars in the budget, which totaled $1.3 million.
Development Department (Planning and Zoning)
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$510,510
535,847
Ma|or Changes
Car allowance increased to $6,000.
Consultant fees increased by $15,000.
Architecture of Excellence is $6,000.
Purchase of new furniture is $6,000.
Development Department (Occupational Licenses)
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$100,386
148,293
Ma|or Changes
Addition of a new personnel. The addition of the new inspector will generate enough
money to cover his salary.
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JULY 26, '1999
Development Department (Neighborhood Projects)
Ms. Reese pointed out this is a new budget. Mr. Ackermann who was budgeted last
year in the City Hall budget now has a new separate department.
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$0
118,045
Major Changes
The addition of a new person for $24,472.
Architecture for Excellence is budgeted at $4,000.
Vice Mayor Tillman would like to see an increase in neighborhood projects that have
been on the "shelf". Vice Mayor Tillman would like to offer challenge grants that had
been discussed at previous CRA meetings. Mr. Hawkins said that the City could
consider using the $1.1 million that had been earmarked for the City Club and
determine if some of these funds could be used in neighborhood projects.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman pointed out that $4,800 has been budgeted for this
Department for training for two people. Mr. Hawkins said the $4,000 is the base price for
Architecture for Excellence, regardless of the number of personnel attending. Mayor
Pro Tem Sherman did not dispute the $800 for additional training.
Commissioner Denahan inquired who was the Neighborhood Project Coordinator. Mr.
Ackermann stated that is the title for the new personnel who would assist him. Mr.
Ackermann said he is now under the Department of Development. Mr. Ackermann said
that $500,000 had been set aside for neighborhood projects. Mr. Ackermann said he is
only working with the residential aspect of the neighborhoods and is not handling any
commercial projects.
Public Works (Administration)
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$201,200
171,327
Major Changes
Decrease of $20,000 for transfer of Clerk to the Facilities Department.
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
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JULY 26, 1999
Public Works (Facilities Management)
Current Year's Budget - $1,502,087
Proposed Budget- 1,443,249
Ma|or Chanqes
o:* Decrease due to transfer of an employee to the Engineering Department.
*:o Janitorial services increased by $21,000 (contractual outside janitorial services).
*:o Increase of $102,200 in building improvements.
Mayor Pre Tem Sherman commended the Department, as there are 24 personnel and
only $3,000 is being spent on training.
Public Works (Street Maintenance)
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,088,572
1,131,260
Major Changes
Vehicle maintenance increased by $5,000.
Vehicle replacement increased by $8,000.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if it would be more efficient for the City to purchase
their own equipment to take care of the City streets and it appears that the street
maintenance is falling behind. Mr. Larry Roberts, Utilities Director said the Department
has been catching up over the last couple years. A study was done to fund a spreader
and the money to purchase the spreader would have been available, but the cost of the
manpower of the crew could not be justified. It is not possible to keep the crew busy for
the entire year.
Library
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,304,944
1,433,730
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
Major Changes
o:o Two new personnel increased the budget by $36,586.
o:o Electric charges increased by $11,000.
*:o Architecture for Excellence is budgeted at $30,000.
Ms. Reese pointed out that the new personnel are actually part time employees
becoming full time.
Mayor Pre Tem Sherman asked what the "develop and implement plans for
incorporating electronic access in the Museum" has to do with the Library, as well as
"develop and begin utilizing a Marketing Plan for the Museum". He asked if the two
facilities were connected and do the budgets crossover. Mr. Hawkins responded yes to
these questions.
Ms. Virginia Farace, Library Director and A.D. Henehan, Assistant Library Director took
the podium. Ms. Farace said that all costs for the Museum are included in the Library
budget. One of the new personnel is the Administrative Secretary for the Museum and
the new electric is also for the Museum.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman asked why funds were taken from the Library to fund a
Museum that was supposed to be funded by a private foundation. He said that people
have complained that the Library is lacking services. Ms. Farace said there is a
management agreement which calls for the City to fund the facility and personnel and
the private foundation would be doing the exhibits and programming within the Museum.
It is anticipated that the grand opening of the Museum will take place during G.A.L.A.
next year.
Ms. Farace pointed out that it is common practice within municipalities that the library
operates the museum. Ms. Farace stated the Library has four divisions. The special
services division is the museum division.
Vice Mayor Tillman asked what amount of money has been budgeted for the Youth
Program Specialist. Ms. Farace said that money is not budgeted to a particular person,
but there is money in the accounts for use of the entire facility. Vice Mayor Tillman
asked specifically how much money would be allocated to this employee so that he can
effectively perform his job.
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
Mr. Henehan stated that the Youth Program Specialist is part of the Youth Services Unit
and he would have to check his worksheets to determine how much money has been
earmarked for this employee's use. Vice Mayor Tillman pointed out that the Youth
Services Specialist was hired to provide services, and staff should be able to show him
moneys that can be directly spent for this new hire. Ms. Farace said there has always
been a Youth Services Department and a certain amount of funds have always been
put aside for programming. Ms. Farace pointed out that the Youth Program Specialist is
the actual resource that is needed and there has been a sizeable increase in the Library
supply budget.
Vice Mayor Tillman asked that there are assurances that there will be enough resources
for the Youth Program Specialist to effectively perform his job.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman asked if there was a specific amount budgeted for the
Museum and how many personnel will be assigned. Ms. Farace said two people will be
assigned to the Museum and typically a Museum like this one would have ten staff
persons. Only two will come from the City.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman noted that $30,000 has been budgeted for Architecture of
Excellence and asked where that figure came from. Ms. Reese said there is a basic
cost of $4,000 per BAT Team and Ms. Farace has six BAT Teams. Mayor Pro Tem
Sherman said this money would be better spent on equipment that the Library is in need
of and that Ms. Farace is more than capable of providing adequate training to her staff.
He pointed out that Department heads are trained to train people and doesn't feel that
taxpayer money should be spent for this additional type of training and there is no end
to this training.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman pointed out just because the City takes in $39 million this year
doesn't mean it all has to be spent. There should be some money held in reserve. Mr.
Hawkins said that this cost will end and the City is merely trying to get a base level of
training and it is important that the training come from a constant source.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if the Library spent $125,000 last year on books. Ms.
Farace stated they did and actually spent more. Commissioner Denahan questioned if
$125,000 would be adequate for books next year. Ms. Farace said there never can be
enough money for books. Commissioner Weiland also pointed out that there are not
enough computers at the Library.
Ms. Reese pointed out that the Library receives a grant of $100,000 in addition to their
budget.
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CITY COMMISSION
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JULY 26, 1999
Commissioner Weiland noted that Ocean Avenue would be under construction next
year at the time of the planned opening for the Museum. Mr. Hawkins noted that Mr.
Henehan is currently seeking additional grant funding to add more computers to the
Library, as well as the Library receiving additional grants from the State.
Recreation Department
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$2,317,217
2,315,948
Major Changes
New personnel is budgeted at $51,386.
Electric service increased by $10,000.
Operating Equipment increased by $8,000.
Architecture for Excellence is budgeted at $10,000
Recreation Improvements are budgeted at $23,100.
Commissioner Denahan inquired if moneys were appropriated for the track team this
year. Ms. Reese said funds were included in the City Hall budget in the line item titled
"Contribution for Human Services" which has been increased by $10,000.
Vice Mayor Tillman inquired how much money was spent on the Wilson Pool and the
fa(;ade. Mr. Hawkins said $25,000 has been budgeted to begin the improvements and
not all the improvements will be made in one year. Vice Mayor Tillman said the fence
should be replaced and the facade around the building needs to be redone and stated
this is the "ugliest" building in the City. He further said that $25,000 won't do anything
and the funds earmarked for the Congress Center should be spent on the Wilson Pool.
Vice Mayor Tillman said it would take at least $100,000 to make those improvements
and he is tired of the City only doing a "half job".
Mr. Hawkins stated there have been exterior and interior improvements to the Wilson
Center. The Park's Budget has funds to do the landscaping around the Wilson Pool.
Vice Mayor Tillman asked if there was a first aid station at the pool and was informed
that there was. Ms. Melody Green took the podium and stated that the lifeguards were
asked two weeks ago what programs and equipment they would like to see offered.
Some of these will be implemented within the next two weeks.
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CITY COMMISSION
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JULY 26, 1999
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Parks Department
$2,714,337
2,684,550
Major Changes
***. New personnel increased by $73,000 for salary and equipment.
.**. The overtime budget increased by $15,000.
*:. Water and sewer services increased by $150,000.
.**o Vehicle maintenance increased by $24,000.
.:. Irrigation maintenance increased by $47,000.
.**. Parks maintenance increased by $40,000.
*:. Architecture for Excellence has budgeted $20,000.
',:. Building Improvements increased by $37,000.
.~o Decrease in landscaping costs of $205,000, due to reserve funds.
Commissioner Denahan asked how much money was in reserve for landscaping. Mr.
Wildner replied approximately $143,000. Commissioner Denahan did not think that
enough money has been budgeted for parks' improvements. Mr. Wildner replied there is
also a reserve of $60,000 in this account.
Commissioner Denahan asked about the batting cages and Mr. Wildner said that the
Little League pays for the batting cages and has already allocated funding for new
batting cages.
Vice Mayor Tillman inquired if there were funds for trees at Sara Sims Park and Mr.
Wildner said trees are being planned for Sam Sims Park. The funds are carryover
funds from this year. As soon as the irrigation has been completed, the trees will be
planted.
Vice Mayor Tillman asked if there are funds set aside for park acquisition. The City
maintains the Recreation Dedication in which funds are collected from developers and
the money is put into a fund to accumulate enough money to purchase land. Also, Vice
Mayor Tillman said he spoke to Commissioner Ford-Lee about placing a median along
Seacrest, which is something the County would do if the City would provide the
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
irrigation. Vice Mayor Tillman asked if there would be funds in the budget for this and
Mr. Wildner said it would depend on the cost.
Vice Mayor Tillman wants something done about the rust on the Hester Center and
asked what could be done to cure this problem. Mr. Wildner said he has already been
directed by Mr. Hawkins to do something about this.
Mayor Pro Tern Sherman asked what the responsibilities of the new Parks and
Landscape Planner would be. Mr. Wildner said the employee would be a landscape
architect who can do design work and also act as a project manager and who would be
able to follow through on these projects. By hiring this new person, the City will be able
to reduce its consulting fees.
Ms. Reese stated this completes the Departments in the General Fund.
WATER-SEWERAGE FUND
Water Distribution
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,326,978
1,556,986
Major Changes
Addition of new personnel budgeted for $25,823.
Water lines repair and maintenance increased by $12,000.
Water meter supplies increased by $202,000.
Water meters increased by $9,000.
Transfer of vehicle service decreased by $72,000. Replacement funds will be used.
Public Water Operations
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$2,445,030
2,484,116
Major Changes
· :. Holiday pay increased by $18,000.
· :. Other professional services increased by $56,000.
· :. Electric increased by $48,000.
o:. Water and sewer services increased by $8,900.
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
Training increased by $7,300.
Commissioner Denahan inquired about the increase in professional services. Mr.
Sugerman said he did not know the reason for the increase and the utilities staff went
home because they were told the budget was not going to be completed this evening.
Mr. Sugerman said he would get back to Commissioner Denahan on this.
Public Water Maintenance
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$818,045
835,573
Ma|or Changes
New personnel increased by $54,000.
Clarifier repair and maintenance decreased by $60,000.
General equipment increased by $26,000.
Waste Water Collections
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,046,700
1,182,318
Ma|or Changes
Sewer main repairs increased by $15,000.
Other contractual services increased by $66,950.
The decrease in other professional services of $56,000 was due to the one-time
notification to the public of hazardous materials this year.
Commissioner Denahan asked why the holiday overtime pay for Public Water
Operations was so high. Mr. Sugerman said that he believes this resulted from a
settlement of a union grievance in the union's favor. The City must now pay holiday pay
for these particular employees differently.
Utility Pumping Station
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$1,636,376
1,734,592
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
Major Changes
Equipment maintenance increased by $25,000
Contractual services increased by $56,000.
Equipment parts increased by $35,000.
Landscaping increased by $85,000.
Commissioner Denahan noted supplies increased four times. Ms. Reese said that
some supply accounts went up and others went down and overall there was not a big
increase.
Commissioner Weiland asked how many pumping stations the City has. Mr. Sugerman
stated 174, but there are 11
these 11 master lift stations.
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Major Changes
major lift stations. Major landscaping will take place at
Water Quality Department
$353,720
365,206
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
General equipment increased by $30,000.
Utility Construction
$451,658
365,285
Major Changes
· :. Decrease of $131,000 in vehicle purchases.
Commissioner Denahan noted that equipment maintenance rose $30,000. Mr.
Sugerman said this resulted from a one-time purchase of a major piece of equipment for
the repair of a truck. The repair was better than the replacement.
Utility Administration
Current Year's Budget - $1,549,956
Proposed Budget- 1,428,569
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
Major Changes
None
Stormwater Maintenance
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$519,915
551,109
Major Changes
· :. Storm water drainage increased by $25,000.
· :. General Equipment increased by $11,800.
Mr. Sugerman informed the Commission that the utilities' budget does not include any
kind of rate increase. There will be a request presented in the near future to have a
request for analysis of the City's rates to determine if the City's rates are adequate.
Although the water, sewer and storm water lines are separate, but the utility is one utility
and goes into one account. Currently, water and sewer are underwriting the City's
storm water expenses.
Commissioner Denahan asked why memberships under Utility Administration increased
from $7,750 to $21,600. Mr. Sugerman said his position was removed from the City
Hall budget and placed into the Utilities budget and this reflects his expenses.
Customer Relations
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$586,631
809,961
Major Changes
4. New Personnel increased to $26,464.
4. Printing increased by $64,000.
4. Other contractual services are decreasing by $20,650.
4. Computer software is increasing by $55,000.
· :. New furniture expense of $18,000.
Mayor Pro Tem Sherman asked if two new personnel were being added and Ms. Reese
said one clerk is being added and one will be transferred.
26
MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
MS.
Services
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Major Changes
Cashiering
Reese pointed out that Cashiering has been moved from Utilities to Financial
$125,043
125,943
The addition of a part time position for mail assistance has been added for $15,861.
City Hall in the Mall
$59,580
37,021
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Major Changes
o:* Decrease of $26,000 for the lease of the mall office.
GOLF COURSE
Current Year's Budget (includes all 3 divisions) $2,227,617
Proposed Budget 2,445,719
Major Changes
o:o Personnel increased by $40,000
*:o Decrease in operating equipment by $13,977.
*:o Overtime pay decreased by $12,500.
Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the Golf Course is a separate revenue fund and is self-
supporting.
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CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
OTHER FUNDS
Current Year's Budget
Proposed Budget
Major Changes
Local Option Gas Tax Fund
$1,282,8OO
1,091,000
No major changes. (These funds can only be used for paving streets)
Community Redevelopment
Ms. Reese stated this Department has been broken down into four separate
departments.
Current Year's Budget (includes grant funds and TIF) $587,150
Proposed Budget 782,670
Ma|or Changes [Referring to Page 211 and 212)
o:* CRA Improvements $121,000
*:* Land Acquisition $85,000
Commissioner Denahan asked about'the $85,000 for this year and Ms. Reese said that
has been carried over and now land acquisition has $170,000. The same holds true for
Improvements. Commissioner Denahan said she would like to see the money spent as
intended. Ms. Octavia' Sherrod took the podium and stated the grants are
enhancements to be used in conjunction with City money. Commissioner Denahan
questioned co-mingling all of the funds. Ms. Sherrod stated that the City is understaffed
and a person is needed to help bring in new projects and new funds.
Mr. Hawkins said when the new Development/CRA Coordinator is onboard, this will free
up Ms. Sherrod from her many responsibilities and be more available for CRA activities.
Ms. Sherrod would remain as the Community Redevelopment Director and the new
position would be titled Affordable Housing Administrator, who will administer the
S.H.I.P. Program and other existing housing programs. Chris Mitchell currently holds
the position of Construction Coordinator. It was noted that this position was currently not
listed on Page 210 and was an error. Ms. Sherrod said her Department currently has
28
MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, '1999
four personnel, a Clerk, Rehab Inspector, Construction Coordinator and herself. An
Affordable Housing Administrator will be added to staff.
Recreation Programs
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$640,100
634,000
The Commission was referred to pages 218 through 221, which list the General
Obligation Bond Debt.
Solid Waste Budqet
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$6,151,634
7,033,374
Major Changes
Personnel costs increased by $103,596.
Overtime has been decreased by $25,000.
Waste disposal charges have been increased by $209,870.
Vehicle maintenance charges have decreased by $116,000.
Contract services decreased by $36,000.
Transfer to self-insurance decreased by $25,000.
Purchase of new vehicles increased by $753,000.
Mass Transit
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$251,5O8
263,578
Major Changes
None
Fleet Maintenance
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
$6,436,167
8,174,289
Ms. Reese said the replacement fund is being built up and so much money is placed in
reserve each year.
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JULY 26, '1999
Major Changes
· .*. Purchase of tires increased by $15,000.
· **- New vehicles increased by $726,000
o**. Replacement vehicles will increase by $1,175,000.
· **. Transfer to self-insurance decreased by $184,000
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Ma|or Changes
Warehouse Department
$195,527
229,518
o**o Building improvements increased by $27,000 for record storage.
Commissioner Weiland asked if the City does anything to protect its records from fire.
Mr. Hawkins said that currently the City is doing the best it can, but is looking at
alternatives to deal with the situation.
Mayor Pre Tem Sherman said there are five employees at the warehouse and $6,000
has been budgeted for Architecture for Excellence.
Risk Management/Self Insurance
$2,235,421
2,137,007
Current Year's Budget -
Proposed Budget-
Major Changes
None
Commissioner Denahan asked why this has been reduced by $200,000. Ms. Reese
said this was attributable to interest income coming down and retained earnings have
also decreased.
Capital Improvement Fund
Total ClP Revenue is $'1,440,000.
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MEETING MINUTES
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JULY 26, 1999
Mr. Hawkins stated staff is in the process of developing a capital budget for the
Commission's consideration.
Ms. Reese said that the public hearing dates need to be set and suggested Monday,
September 13th. After discussion 6:00 p.m. on Monday, September 13th
was set for the first Public Hearing Date.
Ms. Reese suggested that the second public hearing be held at the Regular City
Commission Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 21st and the Public Hearing
would be held prior to the Regular Meeting for the final adoption of the budget.
Ms. Reese said that the Commission needs to adopt the millage and once the millage is
adopted, the millage cannot go higher, but it could be lowered. This figure is due in the
County's Property Appraiser's Office by August 4, 1999.
RESOLUTION ADOPTING PROPOSED
MILLAGE RATE FOR FISCAL YEAR 199912000
Attorney Cherof read proposed Resolution R99-95 adopting a proposed millage rate of
7.8160 by title only.
Motion
Commissioner Denahan moved to approve Resolution R99-95 for 7.8160 millage rate.
Motion seconded by Vice Mayor Tillman that carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
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MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JULY 26, 1999
There being no further business, the meeting properly adjourned at 11:20 p.m.
ATTEST:
Cite'Clerk
Recording Secretary
(five tapes)
May'hr / ,//
VicCa~or
Mayor Pro Tom
Commissioner
(~ommissioner'
32