Minutes 01-04-79MINUTES OF T%IE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD AT CITY HALL,
BOYNTON BEACH, FLOKIDA, THURSDAY, JAI~/ARY m, 1979 AT 7:00 P.M.
PRESENT
Edward F. Harmening, Mayor
Betty Riscoe, Vice Mayor
Ron Johnson~ Councilman
David Roberts~ Councilman
Norman Fo Strnad~ Councilman
Tereesa Padgett, City Clerk
Annette Tinker, Acting City Manager
James W. Vance~ City Attorney
Mayor.Harmening called the meeting to order at 7:00 P. M. and
announced it was a Special Meeting in accordance with Section
56 of the City Charter of the City of Boynton Beach.
CONSI DER APPOINTMENTS TO CITY BOARDS
Discussion ensued pertaining to the procedure to follow and it
was agreed to submit and vote on nominations for each Board.
Mr. Roberts then referred to rules for appointments and sug-
gested that only registered voters serve on the Boards because
that is the only way we can certify they are residents. He
added that when someone is away for the entire summer~ they may
not be able to do justice to ~heir appointment.. Also, in the
past when anyone was absent three consecutive times~ they were
usually reported by the Chairman. Apparently the Chairman was
a little hesitant to get involved though~ so it was suggested
since the City Clerk's Office has records that the City Clerk
would call this to the attention of the City Manager o~ City
Council. He would like comments on these.
Mrs. Riscoe replied that whomever is e~cted Chairman should
keep track of the absenteeism and after three~ the members
should indeed be replaced and be dismissed immediately. Mr.
Roberts replied that the Chairman does not like to get in this
hassle and it is suggested that it come from the City Clerk's
Office since this is where it is recorded anyway.
Mrs. Riscoe stated she was in favor of having permanent year-
round residents appointed. Mr. Johnson referred to vacation
periods and Mrs. Riscoe replied that anything within reason
would be acceptable.
Mr. Roberts asked iF the members were in agreement with his
suggestions and Mms. Riscoe replied affirmatively. Mayor
Harmening added that he certainly concurs with n~st of the opi-
nions expressed. However, there may be an occasional case we
might be able to extend the three consecutive absences if
Unusual or extenuating circumstances.
Appointments to Building- Board of Adjustments & Appeals
Mayor Harmening referred to this Board being constituted based
on a State Statute and read the requirements for the members.
MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JA/~/ARY 4, 1979
Mayor Ha~mening asked if there were any overlapping terms on
this particular Board and Mrs. Pad,err replied that she didn't
believe so and read the seetion of-the oode for the members to
serve from one year of date of appointment. Mayor Harmening
then deelared nominations open.
Mr. Strnad nominated for the Building Board of Adjustments
Appeals:
Riehard Kurtz~ Master Eleetrieian
Robert Olenik, Master Plumber
Robert Alan Black, Architect
Alvin Boeltz, Jr., Lieensed Contractor
Samuel Wright, Layman
Alternates: Lou Kushner and Harry Kindbeiter
Mr. Roberts referred to Mr. Riek Rossi having served before and
being experienced and suggested he be oonsidered for an alternate.
Mr. Strnad suggested taking nominations one at a time. Mr.
Johnson referred to Mr. Roberts sub,hitting a name for an alternate
and Mr. Strnad replied that he has submitted two names for alter-
nates. Mr. Roberts stated he thought a vote should be taken on
each name submitted as with one person submitting a list for the
whole Board, it does not give anyone else a ehanoe. Mrs. Riseoe
referred to these names being submitted in our mail boxes and
stated she personally told Mr. Strnad to make a list with the
names received to alleviate the time element. Mr. Roberts re-
ferred to no consideration being given to those who have served
previously and Mrs. kisooe replied that three are included who
have served before. Mr. Roberts clarified that he just made the
suggestion to include one man as an alternate instead of two new
men as alternates. Mr. Strnad replied that he would like to see
somebody new rather than keeping the old ones. Mr. Johnson stated
with the three previous ones, he feels it is a eompromise. Mayor
Harmening stated the alternates should also be a master eleetri-
oian or plu~per and Mr. Strnad replied that they are.
Mayor Harmening requested all those in favor of the proposed
nominees for the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals sub-
mitted by Mr. Strnad to please say T'Aye'T. The vote was 5-0 in
favor.
Mrs. Padgett asked if there were addresses for the names sub-
mitred and Mr. Stmnad replied that he would furnish them to her
tomorrow.
Mr. Roberts referred to the appointed members being notified as
usual with the usual instmuetions just discussed and Mrs. Padgett
replied affirmatively. Mr. Strnad also requested the people to
be notified who were eliminated from Boards with thanking them
for their past service.
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BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JANqlARY 4, 1979
Appointments to Board of Adjustment
Mayor Harmening announced that the appointment of seven members
and two alternates ~was needed for this Board and deelared the
nominations open.
Mr. Strnad nominated for the Board of Adjustment:
George Ampo!
Alvin Boeitz~ Sr.
Bob Gordon
Vernon Thompson
Frank Bauem
Ben Ridolfi
Paul Slavin
Serge Pizzi, Alternate
Mayor Harmening then nominated FoF Ward, who is presently on the
Board, as alternate.
Mayor Hammening requested all those in favor of the pmoposed nomi-
nees for the Board of Adjustment to please say "Ayet~. The vote
was 5-0 in favor.
Appointments to Board of Governors - Cemetery Board
Mayor Harmeuing declared nominations open.
Mr. Strnad nominated for the Cemetery Board:
Nat Weinshe!
Mary Barton
Bertha Chadwell
Don Combs
He added that one more member was needed. Mr. Roberts commented
tY~t one member has attended every meeting and never been absent:
Don S!oan. Mayor Harmening stated that Ed Hurfomd is Chairman
and has been on the Board for t8 years. He then nominated Edgar
Hurford.
Mr. Johnson moved that the nominations be elosed~ seoonded by
Mrs. P/seoe. Motion carried 5-0. Mayor Harmening requested all
those in favor o~ the proposed nominees for the Cemetery Board
to please say t;Aye~. The vote was 5-0 in favor.
Appointments to Civil Serviee Appeals Board
Mayor Harmening announoed that this Board will remain constituted
as is since all the people are within their appointed period of
time. Mrs. Riscoe clarified that we cannot appoint to the Civil
Service Appeals Board because there is a stipulation regarding
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MINN/TES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH~ FLORIDA
JANUARY 4, 1979
years. She would oertainly like a reading from someone regarding
this. She read from the January 3, 1978, Council minutes when
appointments were made and Mr. Roberts agreed that two members
were appointed at that time. Mrs. Riseoe pointed out that aeoord-
ing to the minutes~ they were appointed to the Civil Service Board
and Mr. Roberts clarified that there is only one Board and it is
the Civil Service Appeals Board. Mayor Harmening clarified that
we only have one Civil Service Board and the proper name is the
Civil Service Appeals Board. Mrs. Riscoe clarified that we are
hoe able to appoint anyone to this Board at this time and Mayor
Harmening meplied that this is his understanding. Mrs. Riscoe
stated she would like an opinion because she doesn't think we
are sitting here with any legal Board. Mr. Vance referred to
Section 72-4 of the code relating to the Civil Servioe Board of
Appeals and its erection and term of office. Mrs. Riscoe stated
that the minutes of January 3~ 1978, are in error because the
appointments were made to the Civil Servioe Board. Mr. Roberts
clarified that they were appointed to the Civil Service Board of
Appeals. Mayor Harmening agreed the minutes were probably in
ermcrr and explained that whenever the Civil Service Appeals Board
is discnssed, it is referred to as the Civil Service Board~ but
the f~l! and proper name is the Civil Service Board of Appeals.
Mr. Vance added that no other Board was reflected in the index
except the Civil Service Board of Appeals. Mrs. Riscoe stated
she wanted to be sure there was not a dual situation.
Mrs. Padgett informed the Counoil that the proper name for the
Cemetery Board is actually the Board of Governors according to
the Black Book.
Appointments to Com~nityAppearance Board
Mr. Strnad nominated the following for the Community Appearance
Board:
Danny O'Brien
Thomas Newton
Corn Reid
Ray Titman
Mary Rigby
Doris Rogers
Rose Smith
Irving Cohen, Alternate
Morrey Meltzer~ Alternate
Mr. Roberts questioned if these people have any knowledge of this
particular Board and Mm. Strnad replied that Mr. OtBrien is a sur-
veyor. Mr. RDberts clarified that he does not question Mr. O~Brien
or Col. Reid~ but is wondering about the qualifications of the
others. Mr. Strnad stated in the past, we have used people on
this Board who have been lay people and under the guidance of
Col. Reid, who is very knowledgeable, they quickly learn how to
operate under the requirements of the Board. Mr. Roberts stated
~LYNUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH~ FLORIDA
JANUARY 4, 1979
that he doesn't have any preferenee~ but some members Go have ex-
perience, such as Mrs. Deneen. Mayor Harmening agreed that-Mrs.
Deneen has been on a long time, Mr. Strnad added that he appointed
her~ but believes some new members should be on the Board. He
believes there was an oversight on the subdivision behind his
place and he would like to see some new people on the Board who
may do a better job.
Mayor Harmening asked if all these people submitted resumes and
Mr. Strnad replied negative!y~ but they submitted requests.
Mayor Hammening asked if they were only submitted to him and
Mr, Strnad replied affirmatively and added that when he cam-
paigned~ he spoke to many people. Mayor Harmening clarified
that they were infommal requests and M~. Strnad replied that
many were in wmiting. Mayor Harmening commented that it would
have been nice if copies of these requests had been given to
the other Council members so the names could have been given
some consideration.
Mr. Roberts then nominated Mr. Harold Blanchette and Mrs. K.
Deneen as a!ternates~ since they are experienced and the others
do not seem to be.
Mayor Harmening then ealled for a vote on the seven nominations
for regular members submitted by Mr. St~nad for the Comnmnity
Appearance Board and the vote was 5-0 in favor.
Mayor Harmening then called for a vote on the two nominations
for alternates, Irving Cohen and MorTey Mettzer, submitted by
Mr. Strnad for the Commun/ty Appearance Board. The vote was
3-2 in favor with Mr. Roberts and Mayor Harmeningdissenting.
Appointments to Community Relations Board
Mr. Strnad
Board:
nominated the following for the Community Relations
Joseph Albury
Grace Kemp
Jackie Bolden
John Miller
Joe Smith
Charles Johnson
Hubert Henke
Wilbur Krimpen
Irving Kutlin
Blanche Girtman
Gladys Iscoe
BOb Ferrell
George Junnier
Mr. Strnad added that the last two nominated are members of the
Police Dept. Mayor Harmening stated that it has been an un~ritten
policy that other than the Employees Pension Board and the two
employee representatives to the Civil Service Board~ we have not
nominated City employees to the various Boards. Mr. Strnad replied
that he is aware of this, and these particular persons submitted
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JANUARY 4, 1979
their resumes two years ago and were turned down because o£ the
unwritten policy. He believes these people with being in contact
~th many people will be an asset to the Board. Mr. Roberts
referred to there possibly being a conflict od interest and Mr.
Johnson replied that for any other Board exoept the Comnmnity
Relations Board, he would have some reservations about appoint-
ing employees, butwith the Community Relations Board dealing
with the public and the Police Department dealing with the public,
it would be advantageous.
Mayor Harmening referred to 13 members being nominated and an-
nounced he would like to nominate the present Vioe Chairman~
Doug Sussman, to the Board. He refemmed to the minutes fmom
the meetings of last year and told how he felt Mr. Sussman had
done a good job.
Mrs. Risooe moved that nominations be closed, seconded by Mr.
Strnad. Motion carried S-O.
Mayor Harmening called for a vote on the 14 appointments as
stated and the vote was 5-0 in favor.
Appointments to the Library Board
Mr. Roberts announced the sad news that one member had died,
Mrs. Estelle Sehaap. Mr. Strnad requested the City Clerk to
please send a letter of condolences to Mr. Arthur Sehaap.
Mr. Strnad then nominated the following fom the Library Board:
Christine Edward
Sandra Lautenseh!ager
Ruble Mack
Martha Musehella
Geneva Smith
Mildred White
Mm. Roberts requested that Mrs. Curtis Weaver be retained since
she has been on the Board and they have done an outstanding job.
Mr. Strnad moved that the nominations be closed, seconded by
Mrs. Riseoe. Motion carried 5-0.
Mayor Harmening eailed for a vote on the seven people nominated
for the Library Board and the vote was 5-0 in favor.
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M~NUTES - SPECi~L CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEA(Y~t~ FLOR.YDA
jANUARY 4, 1979
Appointments to Planning & Zor~ng Board
Mr. Roberts referred to Mr. Arena moving out of town~ Mrs. Huckle
not being interested and Mr. Ryder resigning and clarified that
three vacancies are left on the Board as it stands now. He re-
ferred to the detailed comprehensive land use plan being worked
on and suggested some members be held over because there will be
a lot -of workteo do on this and they are lam/liar with it. Unless
qualified people are appointed, it may defeat the whole purpose.
Mr. Johnson referred to this being one of the most important
Boards and asked if the names he submitted had been received,
Arnold Thompson and Fred DiSalle. Mr. Roberts and Mayor
Harmening replied they had not received these letters.
Mr. Strnad then nominated for the Plann/ng L Zoning Board:
Arnold Thompson
Fred DiSalle
Ezell Hester
Gene Johnson
Fred Kostner
Lou keiser
Caesar Mauti
Mr. Roberts referred to one nominee having been the Chairman of
the Board and told ~about complaints being received from several
people pertaining to his incompetence. As long as these facts
are made known, he thinks it is very poor timing to ki ek out
competent people. He is not in favor of getting a new Board
with some not eve~nbeing qualified.
Mr. Johnson agreed that this is a very important Board, but
he feels personally all the members should be replaced because
some of the zoning which has taken place in the City has
upset some people. He feels with an entirely different selec-
tion, maybe the zoning will be appropriate.
Mayor Harmening referred to reading the minutes from the Planning
and Zoning Board meetings and told about their decisions bein~
far from unanimous. Most of the time the City Council has gone
along with the Planning & Zoning Boamd recommendations because
they felt the Board did a pretty good job, but it is not unheard
of or rare that the City Counei! overturned their recommendation.
It is only a reoommending body. Ultimately any responsibility
for unpopular zou/ng that the people may or may not like rests
with the City Council and not with the Planning & Zoning Board.
He referred to the amount of work being continued with the Board
and stated some continuitY from the old Board to the new Board
is extremely important. He referred to one ~mevious member
being very qualified and nominated Col. Walter M. Trauger.
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BOYNTON BEACH, FLO~DA
JANUARY ~, 1979
Mr. Roberts referred to Mr. Johnson mentioning that some people
were unhappy with zoning and stated the time you are able to
please everyone, it will be a miracle. He then asked how many
of these people he knows personally and Mr. Johnson clarified
that he was referring to the overall zoning which has taken place
in the City and the majority of the Board made the recommendations
and the City Council approved the recommendations of that Board.
Their recommendations were no~ to the best interest of what the
people wanted. Mr. Roberts again asked if he was familiar with
the people named and Mr. Johnson replied that he has heard ~heir
names. Mr. Roberts asked if they are qua!if±ed and Mrs. Riscoe
replied that the people on the Boal~ at the present time have not
expressed the interest that they want to be on the Beard this year
except Cot..Traugem. Mr. Roberts stated that he has also received
personal requestsd!ike Mr. Strnad and most of the members want to
continue because they are on a particular assignment. It is a
question of the City's benefit. If Mr. Johnson knows these people
and they are qua!irked and can serve eompetently~ he will not
oppose. He knows some of these people and they are not qualified.
Mr. Strnad questioned how many on the Boamd were qualified before
being appointed to the Board? Mayor Harmening referred to the
discussion going on and stated that we have all made our points.
Mrs. Riseoe nominated the first seven names submitted by Mr.
Strnad, seconded by Mr. Johnson. Mr. Roberts added that the
name of Col. Trauger has also been submitted and there is the
question whether there should be a holdover. As requested, Mms.
Padgett took a roll call vote on the nominations as follows:
Councilman Johnson - Aye
Councilman Roberts - No
Vice Mayor Riscoe - Aye
Councilman Strnad - Aye
Mayor Harmening - No
Nominations carried 3-2.
Appointments to Recreation Board
Mr. Strnad nominated for the Recreation Board:
Floyd Van Deusen
Lee Grimes
Edwamd Harris
Barbara Junnier
Sam Kendrick
Beth McHugh
Ronald Hall
Mrs. IRiscoe moved that the nominations be closed, seconded by
Mm. Strnad. Motion carried 5-0. Mrs. Riscoe moved to appoint
the nominees submitted by Mr. Strnad to the Recreation Board,
seconded by Mr. Strnad. Motion carried 5-0.
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BOYNTON BEACH, FLOi~tDA
JAHUARY 4, 1979
Appointments to Board o~ Trustees~ EmployeesT Pension Board
Mrs. Padgett advised that Mr. Voehl and Mrs. Hardin were the
two Council appointed members. Mr. Strnad nominated Elizabeth
Todd, seconded by Mrs. Riscoe. Mrs. Riseoe nominated Dianne M.
Hardin. Mr. Strnad moved the nominations be elosed~ seconded by
Mr. Johnson. Motion carried 5-0. Mrs. Riscoe moved that the two
nominees: Dianne Hardin and Elizabeth Todd be appointed,
seconded by Mm. Johnson. Motion carried 5-0.
Mayor Harmening informed Mrs. Riseoe that she is also a non-
voting member of this Board.
Appointments to PiremenTs Pension Trust Fund
Mr. Strnad announced that he would like to nominate $ former
fire captain from New York City, who served on the retirement
trust fund previenely: George Gold. Mrs. Padgett referred to
the member being appointed to a two year term and asked if this
man was to finish out Mr. Chandler's term? Mr. Strnad questioned
how there could be two year terms when an ordinance was passed
making the terms for one year and Mrs. Padgett informed him that
this appointment is b~ State Statute. After obtaining a copy of
the State Statutes, Mr. Vance read Statute 175.061, but advised
that he would have to eheck this appointment further.
Mr. Strnad moved to table this appointment until we get the proper
clari£ication~ seconded by Mrs. Riseoe. Under discussion, Mrs.
Padgett referred to Mr. Chandler not having attended any meetings
and Mr. Vance replied there is no attendance requirement under the
State Statute. Mr. Roberus suggested possibly contacting Mr.
Chandler to see if he intends to attend the meetings. Mr.
Vance ad~i~ed that he would research this matter further. Motion
carried 5-0.
Appointments to Municipal Police Officers' Retirement Trust Fund
Mr. Strnad nominated former retired Police Captain Joseph Casey.
Mrs. Padgett asked if he was being appointed to eompletedMr.
Schweitzer's term who resigned and Mr. Vance replied that anyone
may resign f~omthe position. Mayor Harmening elarified that the
date of this appointment would run for two years from date of
appointment. Mrs. Riscoe moved that nominations be closed,
seconded by Mr. Strnad. Motion carried 5-0. Mrs. Riscoe moved
to appoint Joseph Casey as a member of the Municipal Police
Officers' Retirement Trust Fund~ seconded by Mr. Strnad.
Motion carried 5-0.
Appointments to Community Appearance Board (Continued)
Mayor Harmening announced that it seems we may have been slightly
premature on the appointments to the Commun/ty Appearance Board.
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MINUTES - SPECIALCCITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JANI/ARY 4, 1979
Mrs. Padgett explained that the ordinance passed in 1978 did not
include the Co~unity Appearance Board and there is the possibi-
lity some of the members were appointed to three year terms. Mr.
Vance read the ordinance sections and Mayor Harmening suggested
placing these nominations on the table pending clarification of
this. Mrs. Riscoe referred to it stating the members ean be re-
placed at the will of the Council and Mr. Vance clarified that the
City Council has the power to remove any member of the Board for
cuase and this g.eRerally means ma!feasanee, misfeasance or nonfea-
sance in office. Mayor Harmenin~ referred to the possibility of
some appointments still being valid and stated he believes it
would be better to rescind the previous motion and table any
action on this one until the next regular meeting. Mr. Vance
advised that a motion to reconsider their action and then a
motion to table would be in order.
Mr. Stmnad moved to reconsider the previous aetion in regard to
appointments to the Community Appearance Board: seconded by Mr.
Johnson. Motion carried 5-0. Mrs. Riscoe moved to table this
until our next regular meeting, seeonded by Mr. Roberts. Motion
carried 5-0.
Mr. Vance stated the most helpful in£ormation would be a list of
the present appointments and term of years for which they were
appointed and Mayor Harmening requested Mrs. Padgett to please
obtain this information and forward to the Couneil.
CONSIDER LEGAL INSTRUiV~NT TO ESTABLISH POSITION 0F FINANCE DIRECTOR
Mr. Johnson moved to take this ~rom the table, seconded by Mrs.
Eiscoe. Motion earried 5-0.
Mr. Vance stated that he distributed to the members of the Council,
City Clerk and City Manager a proposed form o~ ordinance and
proposed form of resolution relating to the establishment of the
position of Finance Direetor. He read Section 49 of the City
Charter and explained that if the Couneit wanted to establish
the position of Finance Director as part of the elassi£ied ser-
viee, this would he done by resolution with the City Manager
filling the position and the resolution establishing the salary
and duties. However, if the Council decides it is to be an un-
~ssified position~ this is done by ordinance with the Council
nam/nc- the employee. Mayor Harmening clarified that the Council
mast make the decision whether this is to be a classiEied or~-
classified position and follow the proper approach.
Mrs. Padgett informed the Council that Mr. Joe DeLong requested
to speak on this matter. Mr. DeLong referred to when the first
Civil Service system was adopted by the Congress of the United
States to eliminate the spoils system and stated he staunchly
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MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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JANUARY 4, 1979
suppots the efforts to re-establish this position because it is a
nationally adopted and accepted system of checks and balances, but
any actions taken by this Council to place this position in an
exempt or unclassified position is in deference to the established
procedure of the Civil Service position and would be a step back-
wards. Every department head is in classified service. Why
should the classification of the Finance Director be an exception?
He referred to the position of City Engineer being changed to a
classified position in 1976 and stated by removing the position
of Finance Director from classified service, the effect of the
City Manager becomes limited. They should just go whole-hog and
place all the department heads in non-classified positions and
not have the City Manager fommof government. He is looking out
for the future of these people who have made their future to be
public servants. He criticizes the severance pay given to the
former City Manager. The Council can make appointments in un-
classified or classified service. The personnel dimector should
be permitted to draft the descriptions for the job classifications.
Mayor Harmening clarified that at this point, the question before
the Council is does the Council desire to create this position and
if so~ do we desire to create it as a classified or unclassified
position.
Mm. Stmnad asked if both documents submitted are perfectly legal
as to how the Finance Director can be hired and Mr. Vance replied
that neither relates to the actual hiring. Mr. Strnad referred
to them creating the position and Mr. Vance replied that he be-
lieves they are drafted properly and in compliance with the code.
Mr. Stmnad asked if either was more preferable over the other and
Mayor Harmening replied that he thinks Mr. Vance answered that in
his prior talk when he said it was a matter of policy for the
Council to make a decision and Mr. Vance agreed this was his
position. Mr. Strnad asked if he had an opinion to his prefem-
ence and Mr. Vance replied negatively. He added that it is a
polioy decision whether to look to the City Manager and down
the line or to the department heads. He feels the acting City
Manager would be mome interested'in the policy aspect than his
office.
Mayor Hammening asked if Mrs. Tinker cared to comment and Mrs.
Tinker replied that her only comment is that she is interim City
Manager and would not want to assume the responsibility of this
position. She feels firmly we need a Finance Director and she
would not want to make the appointment since she is the interim
City Manager.
Mayor Harmening clarified that the question revolves around the
matter of policy and whether to create the position in the classi-
fied or unclassified service. He asked if Mrs. Tinker had any
MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, PL01~DA
JANUARY 4, i979
opinions on this and Mrs. Tinker replied that she would think
since all the department heads are in the classified service,
it would be a good idea to continue that po~icyand keep them
in classified service. Mr. Johnsonc!arified thatitwas her
opinion to place the Finance Director as the other department
heads and Mrs. Tinker replied affirmatively.
Mr. Johnson referred to the City Manager hiring the Finance
Director and Mrs. Tinker clarified that the format of classi-
fied service would be followed with adveri~§ing, receiving
applications, reviewing them and if one is to be hired, a
recommendation is made to the City Council with the demi sion
made by the City Council. She added the City Council could be
completely informed as to the applications received and review
them. She would ask for their preferences who they would like
to be interviewed.
Mrs. Riscoe stated her main concern is to get a Finance Director
in here. Applications should be submitted by those qualified,
but we need a Finance Director.
Mayor Harmening clarified that we must firs~ make a choice
whether to create the position in classified or unclassified
service. Mr. Roberts replied that the rest of the department
he~ds are classified and the Finanee Director should follow
suit. Mayor Hal~nening announced that he has no strong perfer-
ence in this area as there are advantages both ways. There is
a more protected and secure feeling for an employee when being
employed under Ci~t Service. There are also advantages to
unclassified~ namely we do hot have the cumbersome machinery
of the Civil Service Appeals Board. The employee man be re-
moved for cause much easier. He thinks Mr. Vance expressed it
CozTect!y: it is a policy decision we are called upon to make.
Before deeidifgwhether to have a Finance Director, this must
be settled.
Mrs. Riscoe referred to advertising for the position and asked
if there was any way to have an interim Finance Director ap-
pointed and Mr. Roberts replied that he didn't think one was
needed. Mr. DeLong informed them that the Civil Service Pro-
visions include that and a temporary employee can be put in.
Mr. Vance stated that he has not reviewed that aspect of the
Civil Service rules, but the normal set of rules does provide
for an interim position.
Mayor Harmening suggested before going farther that it be
settled whether the position is to be classified or unclassi-
fied. Mm. Johnson replied that he thinks it definitely should
be under Bi,il Service and should be classified.
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MINI1TES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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JANUARY 4~ 1979
Mr. Johnson moved to create the position of Finance Director in
the classified category. Mm. Roberts asked if this included adver-
tising the position and Mr. Strnad replied that it is an utmost
urgency to get a Finance Director in this City to get things
straightened out. He does not know how long it would take to
geta qualified Finance Director to do the job required. He knows
for a definite fact that Mr. KennKribs is qualified, but he will
not accept this as a o!assified position because he does not
want to run into problems like the last one. If they want to
forget about Ken Kribs, tkey should go with the classified posi-
tion. In Riviera Beach, it is an unclassified position .and ~See Minutes ¢
other cities have the same setup. He would like to get a Finance 1/16/7~
Direotor on board. Mr. Kribs can be brought on board and then
asked if he would accept it as a classified position or advertise
for someone else.
Mr. Roberts referred to having a choice when applications are
received and stated as far as an interim Finance Director, there
is no problem. Mrs. Betty Zobel is qualified and there would be
no problem appointing her to act in the interim. Right now~ the
problem is whether to classify the position or no~.
Mayor Harmening o!arified that right at the present time, we do
not have the position of Finanoe Director. Before creating the
position, we must make a policy decision whether to create it in
the classified or unclassified seotion. Presently, there is a
motion on the floo~ to create the position in the classified
section which has not been seconded. We must make a choice in
order to fill the position.
Mrs. Riscoe then seconded the motion. Under discussion, Mrs.
Riscoe olarified this will be for a classified position.
However regardless how anyone votes~ she is going to turn around
after the vote and suggest we con, zoot immedi~te!y for a Finance
Director until such time we get our advertising out to bid on the
position. She feels definitely there is a dire aced for a Finance
Director, Mrs. Tinker added that whatever their decision is~ and
it is up to the Council regarding classified or unclassified~
they must realize the Council can still appoint an interim~ tem-
porary Finance Director. Mrs. Riscoe stated that she is in
favor of Mr. Kribs and hopes to bring him on as the interim
Finance Director and hopes he will follow the procedure and not
have the same thing happen which happened before. Mayor
Harmening clarified that the motion is to create the position of
Finance Director as a classified position in the Civil Service.
As requested, Mrs. Padgett took a roll oall vote on the motion
as follows:
Councilman Johnson - Aye
Councilman Roberts - Aye
Vice Mayor Riscoe - Aye
Counoilman Stmnad - No
Mayor Harmening - ~o
Motion carried 3-2.
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MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, FLOi~DA
JANUARY 4, 1979
Mr. Vance clarified that the decision has been made to create the
Finance Dixeetor as a classified position. To formally create the
position, they must consider the resolutionwhieh has been dxafted.
However, sinee no such position presently exists, there is a blank
for the annual salary. Normally the pay plan would be presented
from the Personnel Dimectox with the fixed mate. He has appmoached
this on the basis of a fixed annual salary rate at such time the
pay plan is presented. Therefore, it would be appmepriate for
someone to move the reso!utionwith a figure inserted in the blank.
Mayor Harmening asked if anyone had a suggestion for the initial
annual salary for this position? He asked Mrs. Tinker if she had
any suggestions as acting City Manager? Mrs. Tinker replied that
$247000 per year would be a fair salary for the job that is
needed in this position and the work whieh is also needed includ-
ing bond issues and all financial matters of the City. Mr.
Johnson replied that this sounded fair. Mrs. Riseoe agreedaand
added that $25,000 or $26,000 would suit her too. A man fmom the
audience meferred to this being $2,000 per month and requested
them to be realistic with using the City[s money.
Mr. Roberts referred to this salary being high on the scale and
stated the person should be extremely well qualified pmofession-
ally and be experienced to beging at $24,000. He was thinking in
more of terms fr~m $18,000 to g20,000. Mrs. Riseoe replied it
should be between $24,000 to $26,000. Mr. Robemts xefemred to
the Finance Director being put in the same categoxy with the
City Manager with the salary being set at this figure. Mr.
Johnson questioned the previous salary and Mrs. Ri seoe informed
him it was S22,500, which was two years ago. She thinks g24~000
to $25,000 is reasonable and not out of line. Mx. DeLong mefemred
to the salamies of the other department heads and Mrs. Riscoe
replied that they are in the $20,000~s and Mr. Roberts mep!ied
that the others have a number of years of serv/ce. He is not in
favor of g24,000.
Mrs. Riscoe moved fox the amount of $2~,000~ seeonded by Mr.
Strnad. Mm. Vance elarified for the mccord that Mrs. Riseoe has
moved Resolution No. 79-B with the annual salary of $24,000.
Under discussion, Mm. Roberts referred to not knowing who will
get this job or with what experience and stated he did not agmee
with setting the figure in the solid mange. He suggests ~21,000
to g24,000 depending on the applicant's background and experience.
Mrs. Tinker explained how the salaries were in odd amounts accord-
ing to the classified semvice and Mr. Vance agreed and suggested
the pay mange be included which would mean no less than nor more
than that range. Mayor Harmening suggested that the motion be
amended to give a range of $23,000 to $24,000 in omder to allow
the City pay plan to fall within a mange.
Mr. Roberts amended the motion to state a salary range of $22,000
to $24,000, seconded by Mr. Johnson. Motion carried 5-0.
MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, FLOP~DA
JANUARY 4, 1979
Mayor Harmening asked if there was further discussion on the basic
motion. Mr. Vance read proposed Resolution No. 79-B by caption.
Me clarified that before the Council was the approval of Resolution
No. 79-B with a salary range of $22~000 to $24~000. Mr, Rbberts
moved the adoption of Resolution No. 79-B with the pay scale in-
eluded of $22~000 to $24,000. Mr. Johnson seconded the motion.
Mrs. ?adgett took a roll call vote on the motion as follows:
Councilman Strnad - No
Vioe Mayor Riscoe - Yes
Councilman Roberts - Aye
Councilman Johnson - Aye
Mayor Hammening - No
Motion carried 3-2.
Mayor Harmeninc clarified that now we have created the position of
Finance Director with the salamy range of $22~000 to $24~000 in the
classified service.
Mavor Harmening asked if Mrs. Tinker proposed to hire someone in
the near future and Mrs. Tinker replied negatively as being classi-
fied, we must advertise and follow the rules. Mr. Roberts
ferred to appointing an interim Finance Director and Mrs. Tinker
replied it would be a great aid.
DISCUSS APPOINTMENT OF FINANCE DIRECTOR
Mr. Roberts moved to take this item from the table, seconded by
Mr. Johnson. Motion carried 5-0.
Mr. Roberts recommended going along with the interim City Manager
to go out and advertise for a Finance Director and suggested ap-
pointing Mrs. Zobel as the interim Finance Director, which she has
done in the past several times. Mr. Johnson asked if Mrs. Zobel
has been acting Finance Director up to now and Mr. Roberts replied
that she has in the past quite a number of times.
Mr. Vance informed them that he did not think it would be appro-
priate to have this in the form of a motion as under the Charter~
the City Manager actually makes the appointment and presents it to
the City Council for confirmation. The City Council can appro-
priately make suggestions to the City Manager and discuss it with
the City Manager, but the actual decision must bgbby the City
Manager and presented to the Council for confirmation.
Mr. Roberts moved to put this back on the table. Mr. Strnad
plied that rather than putting this on the table, he would like
to see if we could hire Mr. Kribs in the interim if he would
copt it under these conditions. He is sure he is the man to do
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MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
JD/NUARY ~, 1979
the job. He was dismissed under a cloud. He has been able to get
both sides of the report ~and Mr. Kribs has been done a great injus-
t-ice by this C/ty. There is no question about P~[e qualifications
to handle the job especially since he reeeived one of the highest
awards to be given to a municipality. He would suggest to the
acting City Manager with tko approval of the rest of the Council
that she ask Mr. Kribs if he would consider being the interim
Finance Director until we get one. If he changes his mind and
agrees to go along with a classified position, then he ean submit
his application along with the rest.
Mr. Johnson asked if Mrs. Tinker could make as~uggestion now for
discussion purposes and Mr.· Vance replied affirmatively.
Mrs. Tinker stated she would reeommend Mr. Ken Kribs as interim
Finance Director in the classified service as stated in the reso-
lution until such time as we have to follow the Civil Service
Rules and advertise. She does feel the City at the present time
is in vital need of a Finance Director and does want someone on
Board. She reoommends Mr. Kribs if he will aoeept it. Mr. Vance
advised that inasmueh as the City Manager has not discussed this
with the individuaI~ it has to be a diseussion item rather than a
formal recommendation. In l~oking at the Civil Service Rules and
Regulations, Section 9 would be appropriate and he read regarding
the position to be filled temporarily for no longer than six months.
and the permanent position must be filled from a oertified list.
However~ there is a legal problem in connection with this. He has
not reviewed the file, but understands Mr. Kl~ibs is in litigation
with the City and has sued the City. The matter was argued in
court this morning and the former oounsel was retained to handle
the appeal. It is his understanding this suit in general relates
to Mm. Kribs ~eingdischarged two years ago. Mayor Harmening
agreed and added that Mr. Kmibs is suing the City in excess of
$500~000. Mr. Vance continued that while this suit= is in exist-
ence, it is possible that hiring Mr. Kribs could prejudiee the
Cityts position in that partieu!ar law suit. tn his opinion~ he
does not reeommend hiring somebody suing the City. He explained
how there were possible problems from a legal standpoint.
Mayor Harmening referred to this information and asked what was
the Counci!ts pleasure. Mr. Johnson stated he would have to take
the City Attorney,s adviee and unless the law suit is dropped~
we should not consider the appointment.
Mr. Roberts stated that we have to abide by the facts presented.
He suggests we strike this from the agenda and if necessary get
an interim Finance Director from within our group which has been
done several times, the same as the interim City Manager.
Mr. Strnad referred to this putting him in a ba~ position and
stated it was his understanding when the suit was fi!ed~ it was
filed against Mr. Frank Kohl, but being a City employee, the
City had to be included in the suit. Mayor Harmening asked Mr.
'16-
MINUTES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEE~NG
BOYNTON BEACH, FLOMIDA
J~RY 4, 1979
Vance if he had any ~in£ormation on this and Mr. Vance replied that
he has not read t/ge fi!e~ but if the City is the main defendant,
the City can have a judgment entered against it. Mm. Roberts
added that Mm. Kribs was not working for Mr. Kohl but for the
City. Mr. Strnad stated that Mr. Kohl fired Mr. Kribs. Mayor
Harmening stated that as ·long as litigation is involved~ there
would be no possible way he could vote to hire Mm. Kribs under
these circumstances. He is sumprised anyone would consider the
suggestion.
Mrs. Tinker referred to her thinking on this and stated she feels
Mr. Kribs would make a good Finance Director~but Mr. Vance also
advised her it w~u!d not be proper if he were suing the City 'and
she questions whether Mr. ~ibs would drop the suit. She
wanted to bring i~ out in the open so everyone would be aware
of it. Mr. Vance added that this was correct,
Mr. Johnson stated in case M~. Kribs does decide not to drop the
case and Mrs. Tinker could not hire him~ could she make another
suggestion who to appoint and Mr. Vance replied t?~t she certainly
fs entitled to use all the normal routes and provisions for the
appointment.
Mayor Harmening suggested this be stricken from the agenda since
the feeling is Mm. Kribs is not under consideration at this time
· and it is the prerogative of the City Manager to mat~ the appoint-
ment. Mr. Roberts moved to strike the~ointment of a Finance
Director~ seconded by Mr. Johnson. Motion carried 5-0.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 79-C - P~: 1978 WATER $ SEWER SYSTEM
CONS~R~CTION FUND --
Mr. Vance read proposed Resolution No. 79-C by caption. Mr.
Roberts moved the adoption of Resolution No. 79-C~ seconded by
Mrs. Riscoe. No discussion. Mrs. Padgett took a roll call vote
on the motion as follows:
Councilman Strnad - Aye
Vice Mayor Riscoe - Aye
Councilman Roberts - Aye
Councilman Johnson - Aye
Mayor Hammening - Aye
Motion carried 5-0.
OISIER
Mrs. ~Riscoe r?ferred to all the ~anfare at Tuesday's meeting and
state~ she thznks we overlooked a most obvious thing. Mrs. Tinker
was appointed as interim City Manager~ but we neglected to stipu-
late the salary. Friday is pay day and she wants the proper pay
check. Mr. Roberts replied this could be done at any time and it
can be retroactive. This ~s a Special Meeting and the agenda has
beenlisted. This Can be done at the Regular Meeting.
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MINI1TES - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 4, 1979
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
Mr. Strnad announced that there is a small thing which he is eon-
aerned about. There is a desperate need for front end loaders.
The garbage is strewnaround and we do not have the dumpsters to
pick up this garbage. He does not see any time tabl~ when the
two dumpsters we approved are going to be delivered and Mayor
Harmening informed him that these are available for immediate
delivery.
ADJOUrnMENT
Mr. Robez~s moved to adjourn, seconded by Mr. Johnson. Motion
carried 5-0 and the meeting was p~oper!y adjourned at 9:35 P.M.
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
ATTEST:
~ ~~'~y Clerk
Recording Secretary
( Three Tapes)
~ ~ wJi~e Mayor
Councilman
/~ ~' ' ~ ~Couneilman
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