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Minutes 07-20-15 BudgetMINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING HELD IN THE PROGRAM ROOM AT THE LIBRARY, 218 N. SEACREST BOULEVARD, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, ON MONDAY, JULY 20, 2015, AT 2:00 P.M. PRESENT: Jerry Taylor, Mayor Joe Casello, Vice Mayor David T. Merker, Commissioner Mack McCray, Commissioner Michael M. Fitzpatrick, Commissioner CALL TO ORDER Mayor Taylor called the special meeting to order at 2:05 p.m. and turned the meeting over to Ms. LaVerriere, City Manager. BUDGET OVERVIEW Ms. LaVerriere made a presentation on the overall budget. The Department Heads were prepared with a brief presentation on their proposed budgets that can be brief or down to line item discussion and explanations. Mayor Taylor noted for the record that the entire Commission was present. Commissioner McCray would be satisfied if the Department Heads were present for any questions. Commissioner Merker wanted the overview of each Department Head. Attorney Cherof pointed out these are budget workshops. The final adoption will be in September after the two public hearings. Anything agreed on in substance during the workshops is non - binding on the public hearing process. After public comment, the Commission can establish the millage and budget for the year in September. Ms. LaVerriere reiterated this is the first rendition of the FY 15/16 budget. The final adoption would be on September 15 The workshop is to provide an overview and introduction of what the 2015/16 budget entails. Typically public comments have been allowed at the end of each day of the workshop. Ultimately a proposed millage rate has to be adopted to be submitted to the Property Appraiser by August 1St Tim Howard, Director of Finance, pointed out the proposed budget keeps the millage at 7.9 mills and adopts a preliminary fire assessment rate resolution with a $12 increase over last year. Thursday, September 3 is the first public hearing to adopt a proposed budget. Thursday September 10 is a special meeting to adopt the fire assessment rate based on a calendar for a non -ad valorem assessment to be published with the tax 1 Lori LaVerriere, City Manager James Cherof, City Attorney Janet M. Prainito, City Clerk SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL 2 JULY 20, 2015 bill. Tuesday, September 15 the regular City Commission meeting will include the second public hearing to adopt the final millage rate and final budget. The proposed budget reflects expenditures for all funds slated at $211M comprised of the General Fund which is $77.3M, Water, Sewer and Utility which is $42.2, Capital Funds of $51.8M and Solid Waste at $12.4M and several much smaller expenditures. The funding sources include Utility fees at $42.2M, property taxes $29.5M, capital and bond sources $51M, transfers $16.4M and numerous others such as solid waste fees, public services taxes, intergovernmental charges for services, special assessment, franchise taxes, golf course revenue, licenses and permits and all others. General Fund has an expenditure budget of $77.3M for an increase of $4.28M or 5.9% over the current year budget. Personnel services, including pension, makes up $59.3M or 76.7% of the total budget. Personnel services, excluding pension, is 60.3% and pension contribution is 16.4 %. Operating expenses are 18.5% or $14M, capital outlay budgeted in the General Fund is $600,000 and non - operating at $3.1M. Public Safety is the largest part of the General Fund. The adopted budget for this year is $73M and there is an increase of $4.2M. The major changes are a 20% increase in insurance rates as the plan is currently or about $1M in the General Fund. There is a potential wage increase of $950,000. Pension increase is $527,000 each year and self- insurance allocation increase goes up $334,000. This year there is a transfer to the Golf Fund of $343,000. Commissioner Merker inquired if the transfer to the Golf Fund was considered as a one- time event. Ms. LaVerriere felt with structural improvements at the Links, the amount would start leveling off and stabilize. It would not be just this year. Mr. Howard explained capital outlay could include computer software, hardware, or equipment, increased $105,000 over the current year budget. The AFG Grant of $1M has been applied for and has a 10% match for the City and $998,000 has been included to cover the match. Lastly election expenses have been increased in the City Clerk's budget because there was no election this fiscal year. These reflect the largest increases. Commissioner McCray asked for clarification on the difference between the $4.2M and $3.4M. Mr. Howard replied it could be an increase in electric costs and other increases for a difference of $800,000. Ms. LaVerriere explained her proposal to fill the gap that has been created. Mr. Howard reviewed the proposed revenue changes in FY 15/16. There has been an increase in assessed property values across the City translating to the gross property tax increasing $3.1M and the properties within the CRA (Community Redevelopment SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL 3 JULY 20, 2015 Agency) increased to a $798,000 transfer, with a net increase to City, at the current millage rate, of $2.3M. There should be increases in the Florida Power and Light franchise fee based on current estimates and collections, business tax licenses, building permits, State revenue increases and ALS ambulance fees, will increase $300,000. On the transfer side the public service tax transfer, the bonds were refinanced this past year that lowered the debt service payments going forward resulting in a $200,000 per year increase in the transfer. The transfer from Water and Sewer based on utility operations is increasing $250,000. Solid Waste transfer has been reduced to $4M. The fund balance transfer needed this year is $951,000. The proposed budget includes using $1.588M to fund the $77M General Fund budget. Ms. LaVerriere added the amount needed has been tweaked and reduced. She reviewed the State revenue sharing and sales tax revenue was increased by $100,000 each based on the information just received from the State. The revenue projections from ALS have been increased by $100,000, but it is anticipated to be more. The Village of Golf agreement for fire /rescue services has been increased. Meetings were held with the officials and Town Manager from the Village of Golf and there was an agreement to increase the contract from $150,000 to $300,000. It is not a precise millage calculation. There is a counter offer of $200,000 with a 4% increase or cost -of- living increase, whichever is higher, each year for a ten year contract. It has been added to the budget at $200,000, Commissioner Fitzpatrick asked what $200,000 would equate to in their millage rate and Ms. LaVerriere responded it would be two mills. He was not in favor of the proposed contract rate. Ms. LaVerriere explained the current contract expires September 30, 2015. At strategic planning, Commissioner Fitzpatrick recalled he and Commissioner Merker felt the three mills were appropriate. Mayor Taylor and Commissioner McCray felt the Chief should negotiate the contract and Vice Mayor Casello was not present at the first discussion. On the second day, Commissioner Fitzpatrick reiterated his concerns with the rate for contract services and Mayor Taylor declared direction had already been given. There was never a vote taken on the subject. Commissioner Fitzpatrick again argued it was a sweetheart deal. There are 30,000 parcels that pay the fire assessment. He calculated if the contract was set at three mills it would decrease the fire assessment by $5 a household for Boynton residents. The fire assessment is the same even for those on a fixed income. He proposed the three mills would be lower than the County's offer of 3.5 mills. It would still be the best deal for the Village of Golf. At the very least, the incremental increases should be at three mills halfway through the term of the contract. Mayor Taylor opined the contract has been negotiated and there is a substantial increase. The Village of Golf is increasing their millage rate. He was happy with the SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL proposed increase to $200,000 and the 4% increase each year. He agreed with the negotiated figures. Commissioner McCray agreed with the proposed rate and contract terms. Commissioner Merker inquired if $250,000 could be negotiated. JULY 20, 2015 Mayor Taylor recognized the Village Manager of the Village of Golf, Christine Thrower, who remarked it is easier to find money in larger budgets. The entire General Fund budget of the Village is less than $1.5M. The proposed figures are significant. She would be talking with the County Fire Chief and seriously consider their proposal also. Their current millage rate is 7 mills. Vice Mayor Casello agreed the negotiations have been fair and he appreciated the situation for the Village of Golf. Continuing to work with the partnership is acceptable with the safeguards built into the contract as it escalates through the years. He agreed with the negotiated amount and terms. Commissioner Fitzpatrick wanted it clear that Boynton Beach residents pay 7.9 mills and the Village of Golf pays 7 mills. Mayor Taylor declared it was three to two to adopt the proposed negotiated contract with the increase. Ms. LaVerriere continued that it was decided to continue the health insurance plan the way it is. The City is facing a $1.2M increase in health costs with the plan as it exists. The General Fund impact was $915,000. If the current plan is modified with increased co -pays and deductibles, it was hoped the cost could be reduced by $200,000. It will be a good plan, but will be modified to decrease the increase down to 16% or 15 %. These are all discussion points to be finalized in September. Staff would like to reduce the rates, but keep the plan as it currently exists. Commissioner Merker stressed there is no value to be placed on your health and the employees should have medical coverage. It is essential. Health insurance is the most important thing for families. Vice Mayor Casello wanted more information on what other changes may be made. Ms. LaVerriere suggested the deductible is $150 and that could be increased to $250 or $300. Co -pays for doctor visits could be increased from $25 to $35. It remains a good plan. Maybe the prescriptions could be increased $5 in each tier. The Benefits Administrator will be asked to generate some savings, but keeping the plan as whole as possible. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the City had explored the possibility of having its own clinic or co -op with Delray. Ms. LaVerriere recalled an attempt was made to join with Delray but it did not prove to be feasible. Last year a high deductible plan was offered in 4 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 addition to the regular plan and that would continue as the plan is built to incentivize employees to be able to open a clinic. It is in the strategic plan for the new year to go out for an RFP (Request for Proposal) and get prices to open a clinic. It would be a capital outlay. Vice Mayor Casello understood clinics were based on per visits for success. Since Delray already has a clinic, would it be a benefit to join them and avoid the capital outlay in remodeling an office for a med center. Perhaps it could be explored. Ms. LaVerriere agreed it was in the plan for the coming year and would be considered. Any changes in the plan would have to be negotiated through the unions. Commissioner Merker felt joining with Delray would be a risk. In the budget was $950,000 for all employees to get a 3% raise with $300,000 for police in their bargaining agreements. A 2% raise for the remainder of the employees would save $200,000. The budget maintains a 2% raise increase for employees versus a 3% increase to save the City $200,000. It will keep a modified health care plan. The balance includes fire and general employees. Commissioner Fitzpatrick asked if the 2% raises were a cost of living increase or step plan. Ms. LaVerriere responded it was an across the board increase. How it would be structured would be determined. A difficult, but necessary decision was made to reduce the staffing levels at the golf course. It reduced the transfer from the General Fund by $103,000 to $240,000. Commissioner McCray had seen the billboard advertising the golf course and wondered if this should have been started sooner rather than later. Commissioner Merker wanted a plan for at least three years relating to the golf course. Planning and Zoning had an intern in their budget that had to be eliminated. The Building Official position and City Engineer position have been combined and Andrew Mack has done both jobs, saving some money. Mr. Mack has now been named Interim Development Director. Another full time position will have to be funded. In the meantime he will continue to serve as the City Engineer so only the Building Official position will be replaced. Commissioner McCray noted it was good to know the staffing is being carefully scrutinized. The need is there, but it cannot be funded. In the ITS Department there are needs that can no longer be delayed. In the Economic Development budget there was a manager and coordinator position that did not work and a different approach was being pursued. An RFP (Request for Proposal) has been written for a consultant to assist in outlining what should be expected from an Economic Development Director. The tools have to be in place before any individual can produce the desired goals. The coordinator position is not needed at the present time. An extensive scope of work was outlined for the consultant that may require a couple years to complete. 5 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 Commissioner Merker suggested the $10,000 budgeted for Commission community funds could be used to fund the consultant and be better spent. Ms. LaVerriere mentioned the AFG grant and the $98,400 match for the grant. It is a $1M grant for turn -out gear and other equipment. It was not received last year and was pulled from the budget before the final budget was approved. She was recommending the funding be pulled out of the proposed budget and if it is awarded, a budget amendment could be done out of the fund balance. The gap had been reduced from $1,588,000 to $450,000. Mayor Taylor pointed out in years past the expenses have been less than budgeted. The goal should be to bring the current year expenses $450,000 below budget to carry over and balance the budget. Ms. LaVerriere had concluded the money could transfer from the fund budget, but only if necessary. Commissioner McCray thanked Ms. LaVerriere for following the direction given by the Commission and appreciated her efforts. Ms. LaVerriere indicated there may be more changes before the final budget is submitted, but the proposed budget was a good start in the process. Mr. Howard reviewed a list of the departments and divisions showing the percent of increase or decrease from last year's budget to the proposed budget figures. The revenues sources for the upcoming year included property taxes at $29.5M or 38% of the General Fund. Fund transfers come from public service, debt service, solid waste and utility fees. Ms. LaVerriere interjected the City's reliance on property tax or ad valorem revenue for overall revenue sources is healthy. As much as the burden can be reduced on the taxpayer and find other revenues, is a good situation. The Police and Fire budgets exceed $50M. Finding new revenue streams is a constant endeavor. Licenses and fees are another source. The Development Department is a good example of expediting permits and getting business into the City increases revenues. Mr. Howard noted every year there is an overall fund balance of which 10% is set aside for reserve. Policy dictates that 10% of the upcoming year's budget should be for the reserves. The 2014 year end had a $11.2M fund balance and $7.2M was set aside for reserve. The $4M difference is the unappropriated fund balance. This year's project is to end with a fund balance of $11.5M and a $7.7M reserve based on the proposed budget of $77M. The proposed budget rate was compared to the rollback rate. The rollback rate is what the State advises is the millage rate applied to the current assessed total value of properties, to generate the same amount of tax revenue as in the current year. The correlation is, if the property values go up, the rollback roll will be lower than the current millage. If the assessed values go down the rollback rate will be higher than the 6 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 current millage. The current proposed millage is 7.9 and the current assessed value is $4.6B so the rollback rate to generate the same amount of tax revenue would drop to 7.37 mills. The State uses the figures and computes a 7.1% increase over the rollback rate. Using the rollback rate would require a $3.5M fund balance to support the $77.3M budget. At the 7.9 mills the budget is balanced with the use of the fund balance. The rollback rate would create a $2M deficit and the City would have to reduce expenses or raise other revenues. Taxable values from FY 2009/10 to current were reviewed showing the impact of the economic downturn and subsequent growth. The proposed budget does not require a millage increase from 7.9 mills. The actual tax increase is 7.1% for the State TRIM calculations with the rollback rate of 7.3762. City -wide property values increased 10.08% over last year. During the budget workshop the request is to adopt a proposed millage rate that can be submitted to the County for proposed tax bills. The number of houses within the City paying less than $200 in taxes has declined from 25.9% to 23.7 %. The number of parcels has dropped from 7,800 to 7,200. The total parcels in the City have increased from 30,200 to 30,400. It was explained the drop reflects an increase in values that will increase the number of taxpayers. It has gone from 1/3 of the property parcels to 24 %. Sales would also have an impact. Commissioner McCray asked if there was an increase in the Village Royale on the Green property and Mr. Howard advised he would research the records. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the City had explored payment in lieu of taxes. Many non- profits cannot afford a payment. The hospital uses all the services and yet pays no taxes. Ms. LaVerriere knew of two or three arrangements with payment in lieu of taxes being Clipper Cover and Palm Beach County Housing Authority and the Christ Fellowship Church. Attorney Cherof advised an agreement can be negotiated. It would be very, very difficult to require payment. Ms. LaVerriere indicated it is not done very often. There is no policy in place. Vice Mayor Casello suggested as non - profits progress through development it would be an opportunity to negotiate funding. Scenarios were reviewed that illustrated the City tax bill change from last year to this year. Residential, homesteaded property assessed at $375,000 would increase $23 per year, for example. Commercial and non - homesteaded property assessed at $1M would go from $7,900 to $8,753 for an increase of 10% or $850 for the year. The individual departments were presented. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL City Commission The City Commission budget is basically the same except the Florida Retirement System pension contribution increased by $11,000 and the overall budget increased from $252,000 to $262,000. All items remain about the same. There is a reduction in membership fees and the community investments are included in the amount of $10,000. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the Commission has to be offered a pension. Attorney Cherof replied there was ordinance that created a municipal class with FRS and it is mandatory participation. Commissioner Merker continued his objection to the community investment allocation. City Manager The budget decreased from $617,000 to $587,000. The majority of the change was the re- allocation of the salary for the Assistant City Manager from 60% General Fund and 40% Utility Fund to 25% General Fund and 75% Utility Fund. The allocation for business meetings increased slightly. All pension and benefit costs were adjusted up, except the City Manager department because marketing /communications has a pension allocation that was not budgeted last year. The marketing /communications budget went up. The marketing division did not exist last year. Commissioner McCray questioned what the increase represented under printing and binding for the Strategic Plan and Ms. LaVerriere replied it was outsourced due to the volume of copies and the monies included business cards. City Hall The overall City Hall budget increased from $2.77M to $3.6M. Postage increased. Promotions and marketing went up $1,000. The Commission actively participates in the Chamber luncheon, the State of the City address will be changing with a different type of event. The special event budget remains the same and covers the July 4th celebration, contributions for the Kinetic Art Exhibit, Holiday Parade, K -9 competition each year and $5,000 for other civic and educational programs. Ms. LaVerriere hoped to see more of a City event for MLK. Plus the monies should cover other events that may arise. Mr. Howard advised the budget for property insurance increased $219,000. It covers the Risk Management cost in insurances and is a 9% increase. It will increase in all department budgets. The coverage is for liability insurance, lawsuits, property insurance. The $1.4M covers the insurance liabilities just for City Hall. It covers the 8 JULY 20, 2015 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 buildings, re- insurance for claims because the City is self- insured and re- insurance to cover it. Other contractual services have gone up $13,000 which funds the Mae Volen program for the senior transportation program. Ms. LaVerriere advised the program has worked out beautifully and they are maintaining their costs. The lobbyist services have increased $15,000. It will be brought before the Commission in August. There are two years left on the contract and then an RFP process will be undertaken. It is the standard amount charged to other cities in the County that they represent. The current cost is $45,000 and the next two years are budgeted for $60,000. Ms. LaVerriere felt they were doing a great job. Vice Mayor Casello stressed the lobbyist brought in over $300,000 for the water /utility project and $140,000 for the Women's Club. The priority list for next year would be brought before the Commission in August. It was hoped some funding for the new lift station project would be received. The Inspector General is funded $92,000 each year. It has not been paid because the City has not been billed. The 13 cities that are suing the Inspector General's office have tied everything up and the Clerk of Courts has not billed the municipalities. The money is budgeted each year in the event the lawsuit settles, the City is prepared to pay its portion. Mayor Taylor questioned if the money allocated would cover the cost of all previous years. Ms. LaVerriere stressed the funding was not accruing. Attorney Cherof advised the suit was in its fourth year. The County Clerk has not billed or collected any funds. Attorney Cherof explained the current lawsuit covers the authority to collect and formula for calculating the cost. The prior year amounts would be subject to negotiation. Commissioner Fitzpatrick pointed out the Inspector General's office was very helpful with the situation at the South Central Regional Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Board. The items that increased the budget were the golf course transfer and the employee wages that is an additional $950,000. Commissioner McCray recalled the previous number of memberships was significant and wondered if there was new competition or other problems. Ms. LaVerriere noted the golf course is in direct competition with every other public course in the County. Marketinq /Communications This budget was broken out last year. As the efforts increase and expenditures are defined Ms. LaVerriere anticipated the expenses would grow each year. The annual report and budget brief was re- initiated after 10 years. It was hoped the Commission would want to continue the annual report that was sent out to the 30,000 utility 9 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL customers. Eleanor Krusell, Communication Manager, advised the number could be reduced. A mailing list had been purchased so residents in a development that pay their water to the development rather than the City, would also receive the mailing. Once a price point is reached the expense for additional copies is minimal. Ms. LaVerriere explained there was a reclassification of the Communication Manager position and based on research of similar positions the salary was increased by $14,000. There was an allowance for note cards for each Commissioner to use with their name on them. The cost would be approximately $100 per Commissioner. Mayor Taylor offered to send out his own notes. The cost does cover business cards, shirts, name cards and other small expenses. City Clerk Ms. LaVerriere advised the only real increase was the pension and health cost increase and the $70,000 for the election. There will also be a municipal election in 2017. Commissioner Merker questioned the effect of Ms. Prainito's pending retirement. Ms. LaVerriere assured the Commission there will be a City Clerk and Deputy City Clerk. It was not possible to keep Ms. Prainito from retiring. Finance ITS 10 JULY 20, 2015 Mr. Howard pointed out there would be no staffing changes. The general increase of $17,000 is health insurance and pension. Commissioner McCray requested clarification on the $1,000 for business meetings. Mr. Howard explained it covers the quarterly meetings for the local Government Finance Officers Association meetings staff attends each quarter. Ms. LaVerriere noted the significant change was the pension and health costs. John McNally, ITS Manager, reported the budget increased $125,000. The major increase is from Microsoft licensing. The expenses have been deferred to save money and now over the last three years, a total of over $800,000 or $270,000 per year is budgeted to get current with the Microsoft licensing agreement. It was taken from the Capital Improvement Program funding. This year the budget consumed $84,000 as ongoing maintenance to keep the licensing ongoing. There is a $16,000 increase in telephone services to cover the upgrade in the telephone system. It is an increase due to the lease amount. The expenses increased $175,000, but cuts in other area were about $50,000, leaving a net increase of $125,000 for the operating budget. Vice Mayor Casello pointed out a cost of $11,000 to videotape the Commission meetings. The meetings can be seen on Channel 99 for Comcast subscribers. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Commissioner Fitzpatrick questioned what deep freeze maintenance encompassed. Mr. McNally advised it was a software system for the computer lab and the computers on the dais, to keep the computers locked down to a specific state so they all look and function the same. Commissioner Fitzpatrick noted the PowerPoint presentations from the dais have improved and the remote is more useful. The sensor is now outside the media room on the wall. Human Resources JULY 20, 2015 Julie Oldbury, Human Resources (HR) and Risk Management Director, reported her budget had a 3% increase due to health insurance and software maintenance. The program Bentek is self - service and will allow employees to make necessary benefit changes. Any changes will be transmitted to the carriers automatically. There was a reclassification. There are HR and Risk Assistants currently. The intent was to make a career path for HR Coordinators to be classified as I, II or III and grow into the different levels. The other reclassification was the HR and Risk Project Manager to Senior Talent and Project Manager. The position would be responsible for employee relations, training, performance and recruitment and overseeing the HR /Risk Coordinators. Ms. LaVerriere gave the example of the new hire orientation that was instituted to learn about all departments. All the changes result in a $21,000 increase in the budget from the current year. Overall there has been an increase in the baby boomers retiring and trying to develop career paths in departments to keep employees and retain them as they grow with opportunities available. Training employees to take the skills to another municipality has become a critical problem in the Utilities Department. It is being done within the confines of the budget to provide opportunities for growth. Mayor Taylor inquired about the $16,000 spent last for physical exams that is now budgeted for $0. Ms. Oldbury explained the expense was transferred to Risk Management. Because it is a physical for employment, it is a risk matter. Risk is a separate fund. Vice Mayor Casello asked who was entitled to car allowances and why. Ms. Oldbury advised the Human Resources Administrator, HR and Risk Project Manager and the Human Resources and Risk Administrator because they travel throughout the City on at least a daily basis going from site to site to conferences and networking events. Paying the IRS required millage would be more. Ms. LaVerriere advised these were contract employees and this was part of the negotiated employment agreement. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the new positions would be budget neutral or would there be salary increases in those positions. Ms. Oldbury replied there would be salary increases, but the overall department budget increase would remain 3 %. Vice Mayor 11 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 Casello expressed concern the City would become a training center for employees to seek employment elsewhere. Ms. Oldbury hoped that would be the case so people could grow and go in a career. She hoped the team effort of each department encourages employees to stay working for the City of Boynton Beach as long as possible. Ms. LaVerriere added it was part of the succession plan for all retirements coming up in high level positions to have qualified individuals to step into the management positions. She cautioned there would be significant change in the next three to five years because many long -term employees would be retiring. Commissioner McCray questioned why the entire Commission was not invited to the quarterly orientation. Ms. LaVerriere confirmed the entire Commission had been invited. This was only the second orientation and she apologized if there was an administrative error. It is very important that all new employees see and meet the Mayor and Commissioners. City Attorney Attorney Cherof pointed out the City Attorney's portion of the General Fund is .7 %. There is a fund since the City Attorney represents other parts of the City and the percentage of the overall funds is .2 %. There is only one City employee, the paralegal. Her salary of $72,000 inflates to $115,000 with benefits. The increases represent the higher insurance expenses and a 3% increase. There are 12 attorneys in the law firm and a total staff of 23 individuals including a couple of paralegals that serve the City. Increases in the private sector were considered as part of the increase in the proposed retainer. The Assistant City Attorneys are assigned to different departments when it is appropriate. Adjustments are made so the right attorney with the skills needed is appropriately placed. Vice Mayor Casello inquired what fees were paid to the firm in addition to the retainer fee to become the total legal bill for the year. Mr. Howard covered the period October 1, 2013 to September 30, 2014 for a total expenditure to the firm of $551,000 with $527,000 paid out of the legal budget in the General Fund, $18,000 out of the red light camera monies and $56,000 was paid from other specialized funds. In the General Fund $520,000 was budgeted that comprises three or four different line items within the City Attorney budget. The retainer at that time was $188,000, litigation fees and costs $133,000 and labor contingency $197,000. The same line items were budgeted this year and with the paralegal the budget is $601,000. 12 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Library/Museum JULY 20, 2015 Craig Clark, Library Director, discussed the Library budget that shows a net increase of $37,297 or 2 %. The majority is health insurance costs. Operational expenses were reduced by $15,419. Commissioner McCray asked about the allowance for new books and Mr. Clark noted it was a capital expense that is flat at $150,000. Commissioner Merker understood there was going to be a new employee, a digital services librarian. However, Mr. Clark advised the budget did not allocate those funds for a new hire. Ms. LaVerriere advised it was the ongoing cost of additional staff that cannot be accommodated. Mr. Clark explained the position would be available to assist with use of the computers and teaching computer classes to the public, instructions on how to use the databases and give one -on -one assistance to meet the needs of the residents. Mayor Taylor recalled the same position has been requested for the last three years, but the funding has not been available. Commissioner Fitzpatrick asked about the operating hours. Mr. Clark explained the operating hours were Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Fridays and Sundays. Vice Mayor Casello noted City Hall and the Police lobby were reopened on Fridays. He requested an estimate of the cost of opening the Library on Fridays and Mr. Clark responded it would be at least $150,000 and go from 54 service hours to 82 service hours a week. It would include electricity and increasing staff levels. Commissioner McCray wanted to add the $150,000 to the wish list if funding can be found this year. Susan Ross, Director of the Children's Schoolhouse Museum, reduced the budget by $34,791 as a result of a request for $25,000 less in cash support and the balance in reduction of other operating expenses. Vice Mayor Casello inquired what funding was requested of the City and Ms. Ross replied $250,000. The summer time is the busiest time at the Museum. There were significant increases this year and year -to -date there was a small profit that is expected to continue through the end of the year. Ms. Ross pointed out the intent was to diversify the income stream as discussed last year. The City helped fund a business and marketing plan and it is coming to fruition. Exhibits do need to be replaced. Ms. Ross expected the City would always be funding the museum to some degree. The intent was to develop a step -down basis annually as income improves. The third quarter showed a 15% increase from the previous year. Typically expenses for a quarter are approximately $120,000. Grant funding has become available and it is being sought through FY 2016/17. There have been increases in almost everything. There has to be a balance between membership and non - member visitation because membership is a one -time cash infusion. The Museum is open 13 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Recreation 14 JULY 20, 2015 Tuesday through Saturday to the general public. Mondays are available for group visits and Sundays for birthday parties. Mayor Taylor commented Ms. Ross had been very aggressive in the programs and he saw a significant improvement in everything. She has brought creative ideas and programs and he complimented Ms. Ross and her staff. Vice Mayor Casello agreed she was doing an excellent job. Mr. Clark announced the adopt -a- magazine fund raiser would continue this year and he hoped donations would be forthcoming. Wally Majors, Recreation and Parks Director, advised his budget had a slight increase due to vehicle maintenance, prefunding of vehicles, health insurance and pension costs. There are anticipated challenges with the loss of a senior staff member to be replaced by a Recreation Superintendent, same grade level. The incumbent recreation manager would be changed to a special projects manager with the focus on the special events. The Department is focusing energy to bring in revenue sources from partnerships and sponsorships in an effort to create opportunities to partner with the community and offset the expenses for the programs offered. The fees at Oceanfront Park would be brought before the Commission in August with an increase of the annual resident parking permits from $40 to $50 and changing of the non - residents seasonal parking permit from a seasonal permit to an annual permit recommending an increase in cost from $90 to $200. Lastly, change the fee for daily parking during the off season from May 1 through November l5 to $5 without an annual parking permit. From November 16 through April 30 it would be $10 daily if you do not have an annual parking permit. During holidays and weekends, between May 1 and November 15 the fee would be raised from $5 to $10. This would make a dramatic increase in the revenue projections. Even if less people pay the daily fee, there will be an increase in revenue. On average, 130 days a year the parking lot will be full. A decrease in daily parking may not be a bad thing. An increase in revenue would be helpful. The annual resident parking permits were last raised in 2010/2011. Commissioner McCray clarified the non - resident seasonal parking permit is $90. Mr. Majors noted only 20 to 30 are purchased each year compared to the annual parking permit that average 3,700 to 3,800 for residents of Boynton Beach or Ocean Ridge. Commissioner McCray expressed concern that smaller amounts requested by members at the Senior Center are not funded even though revenue is generated. Mr. Majors explained monies gained go back into the programs. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 Vice Mayor Casello agreed with the increases in park fees, but questioned if a senior discount could be offered. Mr. Majors advised it would have to be a policy decision of the Commission. He had feedback from some residents that would gladly pay the $200. The increase in the daily fee will be the most beneficial. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the advisory board members could receive a discount on a beach permit. Mr. Majors advised it had not been offered in the past. Ms. LaVerriere was concerned about any possible ethical violation and Attorney Cherof advised that would be a County interpretation. Commissioner Merker agreed with Mr. Majors since the golf course and beach are two major assets. The increases seemed reasonable. Vice Mayor Casello suggested discounts for senior citizens be considered along with the financial impact on the proposed fee structure. Ms. LaVerriere noted the beach does not operate in the black. The beach does generate approximately $500,000 in revenue and it costs $525,000 to operate. It is common with the parks. Commissioner Fitzpatrick contended the break should be no weekends or holidays because the weekends are the parking problems and those on a fixed income are generally retired and can go during the week. Mayor Taylor cautioned against giving breaks. Age of the beachgoers is not as much of an issue as the car that takes a parking spot. Only so many parking places are available and every car should cost the same amount. Those who regularly use the park do not complain about the cost. People complain there is no parking available. Vice Mayor Casello asked that any change be well advertised. Mayor Taylor noted the revenue projections for the next budget year are not based on the increases, rather current figures. Ms. LaVerriere advised the numbers would be adjusted. Mr. Majors hoped it would be a considerable increase. (Mayor Taylor called a five - minute recess at 4:32 p.m.) Development Andrew Mack, Interim Development Director, pointed out the main changes in the budget were the reclassification of an administrative associate to an imaging technician to be commensurate with the job duties. Another change is a reclassification of inspectors and plan reviewers to be combined to afford more flexibility and provide a career path. It offers an advantage for hiring new talent and the possibility for staff to get additional certifications and become more valuable to the City and earn greater income. A step for application technicians was added and reclassified. 15 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 Also added was maintenance for the IVR system that was aging infrastructure and credit card maintenance fees being collected by the application technicians. Half of the cost of a community improvement specialist was moved out of economic development and a fourth out of community improvement into the development services administration line item. Vice Mayor Casello asked if the ability to take payments with a credit card is a feature in all departments. Ms. LaVerriere replied Customer Service, Development, Library and Recreation are the only areas. Vice Mayor Casello suggested all departments have that capability and specifically referred to the Fire Department. Mr. Howard responded most credit card payments are either in person or online. A phone payment with a credit card adds a layer of protection of that data that the City has not wanted to accept. The Finance Department would look into offering the ability to pay bills online. Commissioner Fitzpatrick did not understand the makeup of the City, such as ethnicity, income levels, and household incomes, number of households, how many retirees and those types of demographics. He suggested monies be allocated to get some type of data mining from the 2010 census. The budget is being prepared for whom, for what? Ms. LaVerriere replied there is a development atlas and that information is now being updated. Hanna Matras is the statistician. It is done every two years. The information is online. Vice Mayor Casello advised it broke down race, salaries, average age, businesses, household incomes and other information. Public Works Jeff Livergood, Director of Public Works and Engineering, reported the Public Works programs are comprised of five General Fund programs. It was hoped Mr. Mack would be continuing on a part-time basis as the City Engineer. The proposed budget is very similar to last year. The administrative program is two people who oversee the Department. There is Facilities Management comprised of employees that maintain and repair the buildings throughout the community including air conditioning, electrical repairs, and custodial services. The budget is flat. The Facilities Manager and Senior Project Manager are being combined. Street Maintenance is four and a half employees who maintain streets in the community. Even though the budget is slightly under $1.1M, $605,000 is paid to FPL for street lighting, a significant cost. Many of the expenses are subsidized by the gas tax monies received. The City has 254 lane miles of streets maintained by four employees. The primary method is contractual through the capital improvement program. Much of the resurfacing projects have been suspended for the last five years. Mayor Taylor understood there were streets being resurfaced in Leisureville and Mr. Livergood advised they were all owned by Leisureville privately. The County is paving Congress Avenue. The stripping would stop at Boynton Beach Boulevard. On the 16 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 horizon for the County are pavement markings throughout the community. The County Engineer has been given a list of the streets that are priorities. Vice Mayor Casello inquired if work on the medians along Congress Avenue would continue. Mr. Livergood advised it was one of the upcoming programs, not part of this budget. Commissioner Fitzpatrick asked what the County and State roads were in the City that are not included in the 254 lane miles. Mr. Livergood replied the County highways would be Congress Avenue, Woolbright, Gateway west of Congress, SW 23 and State highways would be Federal Highway and Boynton Beach Boulevard. Gateway from Federal Highway to Congress is the longest stretch the City maintains. The Engineering budget has no significant changes other than going back to a half -time City Engineer in the interim. The coordination in the Development Department with Andrew Mack in several positions is incredible. Parks and Grounds maintain the green infrastructure in the City. Medians have been the thrust of the efforts and the public sees the results immediately. The budget is being reduced by $200,000 due to the replacement of plants on Federal and Congress. The frequency of maintenance on the medians is being increased from 42 to 50 services per year. Commissioner McCray wanted assurance the plants were weather tolerant and Mr. Livergood confirmed. Other contractual services include bus stop trash pickup for $20,000 and trash pickup in parks as needed $50,000. The $70,000 is new to this budget. Commissioner McCray asked if there were any other parks as bad as Sara Sims Park and Mr. Livergood responded Pioneer Canal Park and Intracoastal Park are very messy. Mayor Taylor understood the contractor who builds the bus stops is responsible to maintain the stops. Mr. Livergood indicated it was the City's responsibility to pick up the trash. The grounds crew visits every stop in the community twice a week. The landscaping initiative is $202,000 for new mulching, plantings along Congress and the work continues. The additional funds were for re- plantings and beautification of some areas for the public's perception. Defined areas would be outlined and conveyed to the Commission. Ms. LaVerriere advised it was the entrances where people are coming into the City and key roads to be beautified and improve the appearance of some streets. If the Commission had priorities, they should be conveyed to her and Mr. Livergood. 17 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Mayor Taylor wanted an estimate on the cost to plant shrubs or fencing along 1 -95 where the garbage cans and supplies are stored. Mr. Livergood advised three plant screenings and a rebuilt berm would do much better than a fence in a couple years. Commissioner McCray felt a few more trees need to be removed from Heritage Park to discourage those who use the shade to gather in groups and cause damage. Commissioner Fitzpatrick inquired if the median plantings had died due to neglect and now have to be replenished at taxpayer expense. Mr. Livergood commented some plants naturally do not survive and there is vehicle damage that can be frustrating. The summer heat and being a median surrounding by concrete is not a friendly environment for any plants to thrive. Medians along Ocean Drive have not been upgraded, 17 by the Hester Center and a few others have to be rebuilt. There are also some traffic circles that need to be redone. Commissioner Merker asked about lighting and Mr. Livergood noted it was done through the streets program and done with FPL monies, per fixture. The goal is to have lighting at every intersection and in midblock or where there is a curve in the roadway. From a safety perspective it has been completed. The residents would like to have more lighting to improve the perception of safety. It would be a costly endeavor. The City has to pay for street lighting on State and County highways. A 100 watt fixture costs approximately $15 a month or $180 a year per fixture. They are high pressure sodium fixtures that give off more candle power. Vice Mayor Casello questioned the cutting of grass in the parks and Mr. Livergood related it was primarily done by staff. Some is contracted, especially vacant lots. The contract is being finalized to replace all the littoral plantings around the lake in Knollwood Park. Commissioner McCray observed the plantings in other median seem to thrive while Boynton's are not. The City relies on the horticulturist to select the plants. Different plants are being utilized. Using artificial turf was considered as well as different mulch systems. It will evolve over time. Mayor Taylor asked about cleaning the sea weed off the beach and learned it is contracted through Recreation and Parks and done twice a week. It has been increasing due to climate conditions. Fire Department Chief Ray Carter indicated there was a 4.6% increase proposed for the overall budget of $22M. The grant match of $98,000 would be removed and bring the increase down to $870,000. Most of the increase involves personnel costs. The wages did go up $130,000 because seven SAFER firefighters were absorbed into the budget. There has 18 JULY 20, 2015 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 been significant attrition at the top end of the organization. Equipment needs comprise the remainder of the increase. There was a minimal staff reorganization. Two administrative associate positions merged into one and elevated the position to administrative assistant. The total reorganization savings would be $17,000 to $20,000 as far as salaries. The two battalion chief positions vacated are being funded and would be filled at a much lower pay rate. Revenues did increase. The ALS transport fees went up significantly as a result of the Commission approving an increase in transport fees to match other agencies. Commissioner Merker asked about the uncollectables and Chief Carter replied it was a 25% write off. About 75% of billings are collected for ALS Transport. The collection of fire inspection fees and false alarm fees is a little higher percent. The billing is $2M a year. Mr. Howard would provide an accurate figure. Vice Mayor Casello recalled the ALS uncollectables were $180K. The last write off was $290K. Was it cause for concern? Mr. Howard indicated those were older accounts on the books from 2009 and 2010. Four years is allowed for collection. The current collections are trending down. The old accounts are still problematic for collection. A grant has been sought and if not received, plans would need to be made to fund replacement items like a Self- contained Breathing Apparatus (SBA). It would need to be in as soon as possible because there cannot be different types of equipment. The firefighters are assigned to different units and the equipment needs to be the same. It can be paid through capital improvement or lease /purchase through manufacturers that is an inexpensive way to finance the cost. The equipment is owned by the City at the end of the lease. Vice Mayor Casello inquired if thermal imaging cameras would be the same scenario. Chief Carter advised the cost is spaced over a period of useable life and those products do not have to be identical. An equipment replacement spreadsheet reflecting the useable life of all equipment, replacement cost and maps out a program for replacement and the associated costs The radio communication system would have to be replaced in two or three years and tech services could indicate when the P25 equipment would be arriving and put into use. The equipment would have to be purchased at a cost of about $400,000 to the Fire Department. The Police Department purchases the radios. Vice Mayor Casello inquired about credit card processing for payments on ambulance runs. It was explained payments can be made by credit card when they are sent for collection. Payments are received through a clearing house and checks in the mail. The use of PayPal would eliminate having a credit card terminal and a person allocated to take the information. Customers are directed to City Hall if they want to pay by credit card. The issue with accepting credit card payments is the personnel to process the cards. It would be a new merchant account for Finance to add with a 2% fee and a terminal with personnel. PayPal would be the more ideal and more efficient choice. 19 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 The Fire Department setting up a PayPal account was being explored. New software allows secondary insurances to be billed for balances and credit card requests are minimal. Online payments could be done through PayPal. Commissioner Merker asked about the assumed risk when applying for grants and the plans in the alternative if the grants are not awarded. Chief Carter explained grants are used to leverage and the replacement plan is the alternative. Commissioner Merker felt the replacement plan should be the priority. The need is there and Chief Carter stressed the equipment would be purchased. Commissioner McCray asked if the Smartphones could be used for credit transactions. A few departments do use the phones, but PayPal was the preferred method. It is a convenience for those out -of -state residents. He asked what a stair chair was and Chief Carter explained it looks like a chair, but folds into a stretcher. They are used to remove patients from upper floors of apartment buildings down stairs. Mayor Taylor questioned the line items for Quantum Park Association Fees $6,000 and Quantum DV Tax Collector $14,000. Mr. Howard explained Fire Station #5 is part of the PUD and the fees are required. The Police Department also pays fees for the property adjacent to Fire Station #5. Mr. Howard advised the one fee is the association fee and the other is the non -ad valorem assessment on the tax bill that is payable every year. Mayor Taylor asked about the line item for body armor and Chief Carter advised the body armor was issued five years ago for the safety of personnel when responding with the Police Department for domestic issues or violent crimes. The current armor is at the end of its useful life and the inserts will have to be replaced. Commissioner Fitzpatrick pointed out the detail pages show $967,000 but the total budget indicates $21.2M and $22.6M, a difference of $1.5M. Chief Carter explained the $22.6M was the proposed budget and the $22.088M is what the City Manager approved. Commissioner Fitzpatrick understood part of the increase was pensions at $248,935, health insurance $325,430 and pay increases at 2% would be Tess than $200,000. The total for the SAFER firefighters would be $450,000, but other salary expenses were eliminated. The overall budget is now $22M and ALS collections are $1.9M, fire assessment is $5.5M and contract revenue is $1.9M with $350,000 in revenue for fire and life safety. Commissioner Fitzpatrick calculated that all the items would not be available if County fire services were contracted. Chief Carter noted the fire assessment could be charged even though the services are contracted to the County. Ms. LaVerriere agreed it was possible, but it would be difficult to justify. Commissioner Fitzpatrick surmised the pension costs for retired firefighters would remain with the City. Chief Carter found the County contributes to a level that would be equal to the FRS (Florida Retirement System) contribution and the City would have to 20 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Emergency Management Police All three divisional budgets are very similar to last year. 21 JULY 20, 2015 contribute the difference to keep the 175 and 185 plans whole. It would be 17% to 18% of payroll. Vice Mayor Casello thanked the Boynton Fire Department for their outstanding service and the City was lucky to have the Chief and his staff. Chief Carter indicated he budget was exactly the same as last year with no increase. Commissioner Fitzpatrick asked how a hurricane affects the City budget in the past. Mr. Howard replied the City does an initial assessment that is sent toFEMA. FEMA sent funding based on the estimates and the damage estimates were turned in to the re- insurance and insurance for those proceeds. The money would continue to be spent until the reimbursements are received. FEMA has changed some of those rules and Hurricanes Francis, Jean and Wilma have not been settled. Mr. Howard would provide the actual cost figures. Chief Katz pointed out this was the first year there have been three distinct division budgets. It was done so the division commanders would have individual stewardship of their own command. The division commanders should be able to articulate some sort of quantitative measure of their expenses. Chief Katz had oversight over all the budgets. Chief Katz announced Assistant Chief Stewart Steele was offered a position in Oklahoma and would be leaving. He was in the DROP and slated for retirement. This year's budget proposal has an increase of 5.1%. Most of the costs are personnel related and the PBA employees received a 6% pay increase with another 3% increase next year. It was greatly appreciated. Associated pension and health care costs also increased the budget. From an operational standpoint, computer licensing obligations increased, radio repairs and support services increased from $112,000 to $155,000. It is typical of an aging radio system. The Police Department supports the entire radio system throughout the City and attributed to their operational expense. Commissioner McCray noted Uniform Services includes four Lieutenants. Ms. LaVerriere advised the figures are all before the reorganization. Commissioner McCray recalled asking if the City would be getting rid of any Lieutenants. How many would remain after the reorganization. Chief Katz advised the current structure reflects one or SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 two Lieutenants depending on the contract negotiations with the individual captains and the ability to retain a budget neutral proposal. The Captains would be non -union employees. The Lieutenants will remain union employees. Vice Mayor Casello asked if there was only one Lieutenant what bargaining power would the Lieutenant have and Chief Katz responded immense power as they would only conflict with themselves. Attorney Cherof advised there would be no obligation to bargain with a single member of a bargaining unit. School Crossing Guards are a contracted service. Vice Mayor Casello asked why it would be the obligation of the City to pay for guards on County roads. The obligation is to the public and children to make sure they are safe. The City of Boynton Beach pays because the County does not. Commissioner McCray asked about a sting ball grenade. Chief Katz explained it was a crowd control device and emits a gas and projectiles at about shin level to clear an area. There would be some injuries, but nothing to vital organ areas. It would be an impact weapon type. Risk Management would prefer they not be used as would the public and Police. It is a crisis response. Those munitions have an expiration date and have to be routinely replaced. Commissioner McCray noted the line item vehicle vault for $1,800. Chief Katz replied the vehicle vaults secure the patrol rifles. It is not a weapon that should be easily accessible and used against the Police. The officers are responsible to account for contraband taken and deposited into a lock box. It is weighed and stored until properly disposed. Mayor Taylor inquired about the budget for sniper rifle ammo of $2,500. Each sniper rifle shot is catalogued and inventoried. It is a precise weapon system and personnel use the ammo for training. Munitions have become expensive and scarce in some instances. Vice Mayor Casello inquired if bullet proof vests have a shelf life. Chief Katz clarified they do and cannot be reused. Commissioner Fitzpatrick had received feedback that the Department is being cannibalized and many separate programs are being cut to put more officers on the road. It was rumored the narcotics unit was being discontinued. Chief Katz offered there have been promotions out of the narcotics unit, a normal part of operations. The mission is to move people around, expose them to all scenarios and help them stretch and grow. In narcotics, officers rotated in and out is common. The first priority is road patrol, the backbone of the Police Department. The marine unit is fully up and operational. 22 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL JULY 20, 2015 Commissioner Fitzpatrick was asked why the County SWAT team could not be used and those funds go for pay increases. Chief Katz advised the Department is liable for any and all liability by calling them in to act as agents for the City without any operational control. Commissioner McCray wanted to know the limitation on miles that take -home cars can be taken out of the City. Chief Katz thought it was 20 miles as the crow flies. Commissioner McCray had seen patrol cars in Fort Lauderdale and would give the information to Chief Katz. Mayor Taylor indicated the Commission would be approving the purchase of 33 police vehicles. He wanted to know if the cars being replaced would be auctioned or used for trade -ins. Chief Katz advised the cars would be auctioned off. The money received would stay in the Fleet maintenance fund. Vice Mayor Casello sought information on the training programs. Chief Katz stressed it would be part of the reorganization to change the manner in which training services are delivered. Training is important. He doubled the budget and staffing in the training unit. A different training method was being instituted. A training coordinator, a sworn officer, will be responsible for identifying the needs of the organization and needs assessment. Staff currently working the streets would be reassigned for two or four -week periods to be trainers and then return to their assignment on the street. The trainers have to be certified by taking an 80 -hour course provided by the State of Florida. There are also disciplines that can be covered for certifications. The training coordinator will be a Captain and they are rotated on an annual basis. Mayor Taylor asked if there was rent charged for the substation in Renaissance Commons. Chief Katz did not recall paying rent for the facility. It is the only substation at this time. Mayor Taylor opened the budget for public comment. Herb Suss, 1711 Woodfern Drive, suggested the budget for books at the Library of $150,000 should be addressed and increased. He wanted the millage rate to be raised from 7.9 mills to 8 mills and then it can be pulled back if possible at the September budget hearings. It would be a little more revenue and make things easier. There are high water marks with climate changes and more money is needed. It would be for the good of the citizens. Harry Woodward, President of INCA, thanked the City for replanting the medians. Money has been budgeted to prevent further problems. There are high -end developments coming in and the City should continue to look better and better. No one else came forward. 23 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION BOYNTON BEACH, FL Nothing else to come before the Commission, Mayor Taylor properly adjourned the meeting at 6:18 p.m. ATTEST: et M. Prainito, MMC ity Clerk ith A. Pyle, CMC eputy City Clerk 24 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH JULY 20, 2015 •; C.sell. David T Michael M. Fitzpatrick, Com issioner