03-16-1995 Work Session Meeting...
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WORK SESSION MEETING OF THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY BOARD
OF SUPERVISORS HELD THE SIXTF~ENTH DAY OF MARCH IN THE
YEAR NINETEEN HUNDRED NINETY FIVE AT 2:00 P.M.
L J~
PRESENT: Malcolm T. Cofer, Chairman
Phillip A. Bradshaw, Vice Chairman
O. A. Spady
Henry H. Bradby
Lud Lorenzo Spivey
Also Attending: H. Woodrow Crook, Jr., County Attorney
W. Douglas Caskey, County Administrator
Donald T. Robertson, Assistant to the. '
County Administrator
Carey H. Mills, Assistant Clerk
Chairman Cofer called the work session. meeting to order at 2:00 p.m.
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M. Christine Ledford, Director of Budget and Finance, stated the
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proposed FY1995-96 budget totals $39,225,176 and represents an eight (8)
percent increase in local dollars over the FY1994-95 budget. Ms. Ledford
advised information concerning the Machinery & Tools tax figures will. be
available soon. Ms. Ledford stated included in the proposed budget is a 5%
increase for County-funded employees, .Social Services and the Parks and
Recreational Facilities Authority; however, a recommendation for salary
or Constitutional Officers is not included because she
increases f
recommends this issue be addressed by the Personnel Committee taking.
into consideration actions of the State Compensation Board.. Ms. Ledford
stated she has been advised that the proposed SPSA tipping fee has
decreased. Ms. Ledford stated the Director of Social Services'
recommendation is based on the original adoption of the budget and is not
funded at a five (5) percent increase. Ms. Ledford stated agencies, other
than those present today, have been advised of .the :Board's work session
and invited to attend should they so desire.
Chairman Cofer recommended the salary increase issue for
Constitutional Officers be resolved during the current budget process.
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Steve Edwards, Chairman, Comprehensive Services Act Board, stated
their proposed budget is in the amount of $151,300 of which $100,000 is
provided by State dollars and $51000 in local funds. Mr. Edwards stated
the County's recommended match of $42,000 will provide the Board with
sufficient funds for the .year, .however, because many of .the services
provided are mandated by the State, as increases are found in other
mandatory`categories, the Board does note have an option but o provide the
funding for the treatment of these children.
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Gerald H. Gwaltney, Commissioner of the Revenue, stated the
Equipment Repairs & Maintenance, Advertising, ADP Service, Postage,
Telephone, Office Supplies and Dues & Subscriptions line items contain no
increases for the coming year. Mr. Gwaltney stated he is currently working
with the County Attorney regarding a proposed ordinance which will result
in a more efficient method of processing personal property returns at no
extra expense to the taxpayer. Mr. Gwaltney stated he is requesting an
additional $500 for training sessions to keep staff up-to-date with programs
offered by the State Tax Department. Mr. Gwaltney stated the Equipment
line item contains. a decrease from last year and covers the rental of copy
machines and alap-top computer to perform real estate assessments and
notifications to the taxpayers in one process.
Supervisor Spivey asked Mr. Gwaltney if his office has required
training hours .per employee each year.
Mr. Gwaltney stated his office has a certification program which
requires a minimum amount of hours for participants.
.Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Gwaltney if the Compensation ,
Board is recommending an increase, how is this impacted in his budget.
Mr. Gwaltney stated his office was notified recently of a 2.25%
increase for the coming. year which is not reflected in the. proposed FY1995-
96 budget and will need to be factored in before the budget is finalized.
In response to Supervisor Bradby's inquiry of how much decrease
does Mr. Gwaltney's proposed budget contain for the coming year, Mr.
Gwaltney: replied $3221ess than last year.
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Beryl H. Perry, Treasurer, stated his proposed budget contains an
increase in the Postage line item due to the three bulk mailings per year for
real estate, personal property and decals. Mr. Perry further stated under
the Equipment line item he has requested bar code scanning wands and a
new computer system.
In response to Supervisor Spady's inquiry of what percent of increase
is contained in his salary line item, Mr. Perry replied ~ cost-of-living
adjustment in the amount of 2.25%.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw noted cost-of-living increases for
Constitutional Officers approved by the Compensation Board are not
effective until December 1, 1995 and will not be for the entire year.
Ms. Ledford stated the detail sheet contains the budget as adopted
and reflects Constitutional Officers salaries effective July 1, 1995.. Ms.
Ledford recommended the Boara advise staff if salary increases for the
Constitutional Offices will be effective on July 1, 1995. Mrs. Ledford
advised the Board that the Treasurer has requested a local supplement for
one employee. and the $133,481 is their salaries as of today.
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Arthur E. Berkley, Superintender(t of Inspections, stated his original
request included reclassification of four employees, for a total impact of
$650. Mr. Berkley stated he supports the proposed 5% increase for
employees as it becomes increasingly harder at the present level of salaries
to be able to attract and retain knowledgeable employees. Mr. Berkley
requested the Board fund an additional $2,500 in his Travel & Training line
item for certification requirements that are mandated by the Uniform
Statewide Building Code.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Berkley what values would the
additional $2,500 bring to his department.
Mr. Berkley stated the Insurance Service Organization (ISO) performs
ratings on communities for fire protection which directly affects the
homeowners insurance rates. Mr. Berkley stated in 1995 and 1996, the ISO
will begin rating building inspections departments on the .number of
personnel, their levels of certification and professionalism within the
department. Mr. Berkley stated the more training the County can provide
and the more knowledgeable employees the County can hire and retain, the
better rating the community will receive.
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C. W. Phelps, Sheriff, stated the Fee Bill passed allowing
Constitutional Officers to have fringe benefits from the fees generated
through civil process offers a savings of approximately $96,000 to the
County. Sheriff Phelps stated in the process, law enforcement officers have
been given a 4.5% pay increase effective December 1, 1995 through the
Compensation Board, however, he has five County-funded positions he is
requesting a 4.5% pay increase for December 1, 1995. Sheriff Phelps stated
in the past, partial funding was provided by the Drug Free Schools for one
of the County-funded positions, however, it currently appears this funding
will not be available July 1, .1995. Sheriff Phelps stated mileage
reimbursements will not be received from the State this year. Sheriff Phelps
requested the Board to include a Special Enforcement line item in the
amount of $10,000 and promised to seek any grants that can be obtained.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Sheriff Phelps if special enforcement
is different from the special investigation task force.
Sheriff Phelps replied the special investigation task force is for drug
enforcement. Sheriff Phelps stated Special Enforcement is for traffic. Sheriff
Phelps stated $14,000 has been taken in this year, but only $4,000 spent.
Sheriff Phelps stated grant funds must be spent before June 30, 1995 and he
is presently taking all of the expenses from the grant money in order to
accomplish this.
• Chairman Cofer asked if the DARE officer and Drug Free Zone
Program was furnishing $15,000 of that person's salary.
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Ms. Ledford replied $15,000 is received from the School Board
through a State grant.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Sheriff Phelps how much is received
in donations for the DARE Program because he was under the impression
that businesses and industries in the County had .contributed to the DARE
Program
Sheriff Phelps stated the PTAs pay for any expenses incurred such a
t-shirts, materials, etc.. and he receives some donations from individuals, but
not businesses or industries...
Supervisor Spivey asked Sheriff Phelps if he has the option of
contracting out the DARE Program if he does not have qualified personnel
to teach the course.
Sheriff Phelps .stated if necessary he would seek the State Police's
assistance who have assisted in the past through an agreement with the
DARE coordinator. Sheriff Phelps stated for the past two years he has used
a trooper to teach the DARE Program at Windsor Elementary School who
was being trained to become a coordinator and it was necessary for him to
teach for a year.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw stated the Sheriff has advised that the State
will not reimburse his budget for mileage and asked where this is located
in his budget.
Sheriff Phelps replied under the Motor Fuel, Lube & Repairs line item
which is the reason for the 9% increase. Sheriff Phelps stated according to
the estimate he received as of March 10, 1995 from. the Compensation
Board, they have a zero balance indicated under the mileage column.
Chairman Cofer asked what this figure was previously.
Sheriff Phelps stated previously it was capped at $45,000 or $0.16 per
mile.
Sheriff. Phelps stated pending the Aprii 5, 1995 hearings, the estimate
includes funds for office and vehicle expenses at the July 1, 1994 amount.
Sheriff Phelps stated the mileage reimbursements from the State were
previously set so that four years' use could be received from vehicles and
the County would break even with its purchase.
Sheriff Phelps stated the County was one of the ten counties this year
that did not. meet the criteria of one deputy for every two thousand
population. Sheriff Phelps stated he believes the County is in line to receive
an additional position from the Compensation Board for the upcoming year
and he would request the Board to continue to fund the five County
positions and allow him to add the Compensation Board position.
Supervisor Spivey asked if the rental was for confiscated items.
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Sheriff Phelps stated the rental applies to an identification kit which
is cheaper to rent. than purchase because of continuing changes in
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Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked if the additional Compensation Board
position is a possibility or definitely a position.
Sheriff Phelps stated a possibility at this point, although he has not yet
received confirmation from the Compensation Board.
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William E. Laine, Jr., Clerk of Circuit Court, stated the Professional
Services and Equipment & Maintenance line items remain the same, with
an increase in the Postage -line item. Mr. Laine stated he is requesting
$1,500 for furniture, to include the purchase of additional chairs, in the
capital budget for the office being constructed which was not recommended
by the Director of Budget & Finance. Mr. Laine stated $15,000 was included
in a previous budget for a fire alarm in the vault and the installation was
paid for by a State grant and he is now requesting sensors be purchased for
use in his office and the counter. Mr. Laine stated he is also requesting
$1,500 for carpet which is also not recommended by the Director of Budget
and Finance. Mr. Laine stated $60,000 for an imaging system which is
included in the capital budget, has now increased to $85,000, and if he can
obtain this late in FY1996, there is currently .$50,000 in the current year's
budget that will not be spent, so this amount. can actually be appropriated
in FY1996-97 if the Board so desires.
Supervisor Spivey stated he appreciated Mr. Laine's conservative Dues
& Subscriptions and Travel & Training figures which are realistic. `.
Ann Edwards, Registrar, stated she requested $13,500 for two extra
part-time positions because of motor voter, however, the Director of Budget
and Finance is recommending only $10,000.
Ann Edwards, representing the Electoral Board, stated the Office
Supplies line item was cut from $9,500 to $6,000 which is acceptable..
R. Bryan David, Director of Planning and Zoning, stated with the
elimination of the Department. of Community Development. a number of
reclassifications in positions are proposed while decreasing the Salary line
item because of the elimination of the Assistant County Administrator
position. Mr. David stated the. Compensation line item has increased due
to compensation for meeting attendance for the Historical Architectural
Review Committee. Mr. David stated the Office Supplies line item has
increased due to copying charges and increased development activity in the
County. Mr. David stated regarding the Capital Budget, the second phase
of the GIS system is recommended and he will be approaching the Board
in the near future regarding an address maintenance system. Mr. David
stated the overall department costs have come down from last year.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked the cost of the GIS system.
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Mr. David replied $40,000 is included in .this fiscal and next fiscal year
in the Capital Budget for hardware and software for the computer system
and digitizing tax. parcels.
Following Supervisor Spady's question if Mr. David is proposing a
new position, Mr. David responded he has eliminated the Zoning
Administrator position and created a Planner position and the original
County Planner position has been reduced to a Planner position. Mr. David
stated the Zoning Technician I position has been deleted leaving a net
reduction of one employee. Mr. David stated there are three
reclassifications being proposed.
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W. Parker Councill, Commonwealth. Attorney, stated he is leaving his
office from Barlow & Riddick who are furnishing all utilities, including the.
telephone system, and copying machine which he is anticipating leasing at
some point. Mr. Councill stated he is in need of a new desk for his
secretary and he supplies all other items such as chairs, bookcases, his desk,
etc. himself. Mr. Councill stated he still has money saved on rent which
could be used for needed items.
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Ludford T. Creef, III,. Director of Public Works, stated he has
recommended two employees, Tom Stanfield and Billy Wagner, for a
regrade because it is cheaper to compensate good employees than to train
new employees.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked the Finance Director the difference in
the "requested" and "recommended" amounts,
Ms. Ledford stated she requested each department to not put an
increase in salaries unless they are requesting additional personnel or a
reclassification. Ms. Ledford stated she recommended the salary increase
of 5% for County employees, Ms. Ledford stated the County Administrator,
Assistant to the County Administrator and she reviewed the reclassification
request of Mr. Creef and do not recommend reclassification of these
employees at this point.
County Administrator Casket' stated staff will be submitting to the
Board in the near future a proposed draft of a new pay plan which analyses
all County positions in comparison to neighboring jurisdictions.
Vice Chairman .Bradshaw stated the Director of Public Works has
recommended $250,0(10 on the Refuse Collection, but the Director of Budget
and Finance is recommending a $150,000 reduction, however, this money
was moved over to the Disposal line item because $900,000 was requested
and the recommendation is $1,050,000.
Ms. Ledford stated the Contracted Services line item is where SPSA
is paid for convenience sites now operating, and based on the hiskory,
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$100,000 will adequately cover the cost. Ms. Ledford stated the budget is
prepared in regards to the collection of trash as it is done now and if some
adjustment is made on how the County handles its trash, some adjustment
will also need to be made to the budget...
Supervisor Spivey stated $12,500 is requested on the Radio
Communications line item and only $b,000 is recommended. Supervisor.
Spivey asked if this is to purchase new radios.
Mr. Creef replied to replace, fix and purchase new radios if needed.
Supervisor Spivey asked Mr. Creef how much money would be
involved with Mr. Creef's proposed two reclassifications.
Mr. Creef replied less than $1,500 per position or approximately $3,000
per year which will move the employees from a Grade II to a Grade III with
the same title.
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Ms. Ledford advised the Board that Lynn O'Berry, Chief Animal
Control Officer, was out on a call and may not be able to speak today.
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Lynn P, Harris, Director of Economic Development, stated she is
requesting a 3% increase in her budget for the Travel and Training line item
to include $3,000 for an Annual Appreciation Business/Industry Dinner.
In response to Supervisor Spady's question on how the invitation list
would be created for the dinner, Mrs. Harris replied the list would be
inclusive of all major industries in .the County, as well as small businesses,
and she would anticipate utilizing the Chamber of Commerce list. Ms.
Harris stated invitations would be sent out to the various- businesses who
would pay a fee and her department would make up the difference in the
cost. Ms. Harris stated she would anticipate 300-400 people for this event.
Mrs. Harris stated the Industrial Development Authority's budget
contains funds for the development. and maintenance of the industrial park
on Route 460, Mrs. Harris stated also included is compensation for
Authority members.
Chairman Cofer requested Mrs. Harris to elaborate on the
Beautification line item.
Mrs. Harris stated the Roadway Beautification line item contains the
standard $5,000 funded for the last several years. Mrs. Harris stated some
work will need to be done at the James River Bridge after VDOT completes
their demolition.
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Linda Bean, Director of Social Services, stated Social Services' total
request for FY1995-96 is $2,024,511 which includes $1,382,979. in Federal,
State and donated funds and $641,532 in local funds and represents an
increase in local funds of $35,708 or 5.89%.
Chairman Cofer requested the Director of Budget and Finance to
provide the Board with a copy of Social Services' budget by line item.
Chairman Cofer noted Social Services is requesting a $36,000 increase from
last year.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw inquired of the requested increase, how
much is matching for State and Federal.
Ms. Bean replied $310,858 is matching. Ms. Bean stated the General
Relief Program represents a local. dollar increase of $3,116 and provides
.$131 per month for individuals with temporary disabilities or permanent
disabilities while they await approval of SSI. Ms. Bean stated 40 people are
anticipated to be served next year. Ms. Bean stated the reason for the
increase is Social Services is projecting a decrease in the SSI reimbursements
to this line item..
Ms. Bean stated Prevention Foster Care funds are used to assist Social
Services in preventing children from entering foster care, for psychiatric
care, medical care and day care. Ms. Bean stated an increase of $325 in
local dollars is being requested because Social Services is anticipating an
increase of $1,000 in its allocation
Ms. Bean stated At Risk Child Day Care Pass Through represents a
local dollar increase of $2,452 and pays for child day care to allow welfare
recipients to either go to work or attend training that will lead to
employment. Ms. Bean stated it is also used to assist in meeting the cost
of child day care. for the working poor.
Ms. Bean stated Social Services is requesting a total dollar increase of
approximately $18,000 for Block Grant Child Day Care which consists of all
Federal and State money and has no local match. These funds provide
services for the working poor who can not afford to pay for their day care
in total. The recipient pays a portion of the fee and Social Services pays a
portion of the fee. This is a mandated service and the $18,000 is based on
what Social Services antipates to be an increased allocation.
Ms. Bean stated regarding Eligibility Administration, the total dollar
increase is $21,093 and realizes a local dollar decrease of $6,774. The
General Assembly allocated funding to begin implementation of a salary
scale adjustment for local Social Services' agency employees which are
salaried far less than their counterparts at the State level. .Fifty percent of
the money was allocated for the fiscal year beginning July 1st and the
General Assembly will make a determination next year about the remaining
50% which will either be allocated in one lump sum or 25% over two
additional .years. As a result, Social Services was able to realize a decrease
in the local dollars for Eligibility Administration.
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Ms. Bean stated regarding ADAPT, statewide all Social Services
benefit programs are being converted from a manual to a computerized
generic caseload system. An allocation of Federal and State money will be
made effective July 1, 1995 to each locality, one time only, to assist in the
cost of conversion.. Social Services' allocation is $12,670 which requires a
local match of $2,534.
Ms. Bean stated regarding Services Administration, the total increase
is $68,080 which requires a local match of $40,515. In addition to the
adjustment to the salary scales, Social Services has also included a 5% July
1, 1995 adjustment for ali employees.. It is her understanding that .the
Director of Budget. and Finance's recommendation is for the Social Services'
local budget be approved in the amount of $608,100. If this is approved,
Social Services will realize an increase of .38% which will be eaten up by
ADAPT which will leave nothing to match enhanced Federal and State
funding or nothing left~for any increased needs or for any kind of salary
increases.
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Dr. Jane T. York, School Superintendent, stated input on the proposed
budget has been. received from the community, parents, teachers and School
Board with a public presentation at the Windsor Middle School and a
public. hearing last Thursday night. There is a School Board meeting
scheduled for next Tuesday to approve or modify the budget. The
enrollment from last year to this year increased by 2.3% and 5.3% over the
past two years. Seven additional teachers are needed to meet the
teacher/pupil ratio required. Two facilities have opened since 1993.
Employees need either acost-of-living or step increase and with increased
enrollment comes the responsibility of transporting additional students
which equates to four buses, although some money has been saved in
annual costs and new buses by running double loads. Health insurance
premiums will most likely increase this year. Technology needs to continue
to be a focus. Trash removal was previously provided by the County and
the schools will .now incur a tipping fee. The overall increase in the
proposed budget is 9.2% including debt service which is an increase in local
funds of $1.5 million. $821,000 or 6.3% is for operating, exclusive of debt
service. A 2.5% increase in salaries is also proposed.
Chairman Cofer asked Dr. York if a COLA or step. increase equals out
to a 2.5% increase.
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Dr. York stated a step increase equals 2.5%, but people who make a
major jump from step 13 to the career level get more than 2.5%.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Dr. York how does the School Board
perceive the requested increase to improve the academics in the County.
Dr. York stated the School Board's. mission is instruction and some
initiatives are not included in this budget that will cost money. Regarding
the model .school proposed at Carrsville, there will be no more resources for
this, however, the ..School Board is looking at ways to increase student
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achievement.. The School Board is not satisfied with the achievement, but
is attempting toaddress it through a master teacher plan, a model school
and- plans to continue the curriculum .mapping.
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Alan Nogiec, Director of Parks and Recreational Facilities Authority,
stated the Building & Grounds line item contains the same amount for the
last five years. The Authority has not been able to spend the allocated
money because the maintenance crew at that time did not have the
capabilities held by the current crew. Regarding the Equipment Repair line
item, in 1990, the actual cost was approximately $3,000 over what was
budgeted and the next year a vehicle was purchased ~to replace one that was
well beyond its life expectancy. The budget presented to the Board was
prepared by staff and the Commissioners of the Authority and represents
what the people in the community expect and the Authority needs in order
to meet citizens' expectations. Regarding the Personnel line item, the
summary sheet represents a 5% increase for staff. The Authority has two
new facilities to be .accepted within -the next year, Jersey Park and Jones
Creek Boat Ramp. The Authority has no intention of building any new
facilities in the near future and desires to upgrade what is presently
available. In the capital request, the Authority is requesting replacement of g
vehicles and resurfacing of tennis courts. It is his understanding that
several items were deleted in the recommended Capital Budget, but if the
Board circumvents the program in any way the program will fail. Mr.
Nogiec requested the Board to advise the Authority on the amount of
funding to be received for capital items and let the Authority decide what
their priorities are and where the money should go.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Nogiec when was the last time
a survey was performed by the Authority regarding the needs of the
citizens of the County.
Mr. Nogiec stated two needs assessments were done, one by the
United Way and the other by the Youth Services Board, both of which
identified Parks and Recreational programming and facilities as a priority.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked what basis is being used to determine
the needs of the County.
Mr. Nogiec stated in the past, the majority of development was
accomplished because of opportunity; Nike Park because there was a Hike
missile site which became surplus property; Riverview Park because the old
Smithfield High School became surplus and the skating rink because Billy
Camp was interested in providing monies for the Authority to generate this
type of facility. As far as programs, the Authority has been doing the basic
programs that are acceptable everywhere and the Authority has not been
in a position to find out from the people in the community just exactly what
is desired. Programs are done as to what the Authority knows works and
if there is an interest generated.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw stated basically the County has facilities that
BOOK ~U PAGf ZZ~7
are meeting the needs of special interests. Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked
Mr. Nogiec what he thought the majority of the citizens would say if a
survey was done stating $500,000 is included for Parks and Recreational
facilities and asking if they are willing to continue to fund that $500,000 or
would you rather see it channeled somewhere else.
Mr. Nogiec stated he believes they would say "yes" although this
would depend on how the question was phrased.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw. stated when the issue was raised in
Southampton County, citizens did not want to fund a Parks and Recreation
Department.
Mr. Nogiec stated this was because they did not have one. There was
nothing there other than special interest groups to run any program or
operate any types of facilities that they do have. Also, the facilities they do
have are extremely limited. Isle of Wight has. facilities that will
accommodate the interest in general in certain areas, stated Mr. Nogiec.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw stated he and Supervisor Spivey «re
working on a subcommittee with Alan to address these types of concerns
and they will provide the Board with a recommendation prior to finalizing
the budget.
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Mr. Nogiec stated the current facilities are functional and the County.
must maintain what it has currently.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked what use it is to maintain what the
County has if it does not have a vision of where it is going
Supervisor Spivey asked Mr. Nogiec if $11,000 was spent on Robinson
Park in 1989.
Mr. Nogiec replied "yes" to develop the facility, specifically for
playground equipment and the amenities that were within.
Supervisor Spivey stated in 1991 and 1992 the Parks and. Recreational
budget included a $3,500 improvement, 20% of which was paid by the
Town of Windsor, and asked for what was this amount intended.
Mr. Nogiec stated the original development was the modular piece
located in the middle of the .park, and the additional pieces located on the
left-hand side included a swing set.
Supervisor Spivey stated the County has spent approximately $15,000
since 1989 in the Windsor area. Supervisor Spivey stated under .the
potential for future development, section II, the middle paragraph concerns
him a great deal because Mr. Nogiec is indicating that all or certain
requirements can be met through the use of school property. In Robinson
Park, there is a real probability that we can not accommodate additional
needs for the population and the changing makeup of this population
because of not being in a position to investigate this. we can not say that
eooK ,16 eacE Z30
there is an opportunity for the residents of the middle of the County to be
exposed to activities that are of interest or even that we adequately offer
these opportunities to other sections of the County. In order for this to
happen, we will have to look at the makeup and the capabilities of our
present staff from both a time perspective and our abilities. This effort can
certainly be enhanced by efforts of other departments, but here again, we
may experience the same restrictions. Supervisor Spivey stated he believes
the County does have to have a vision and it is very important when
money is appropriated to know how the money will be used. I do not
believe the department should have the total .responsibility of deciding this
because this is what the budget process is all about, knowing how it will be
spent.
Mr. Nogiec stated. up to this point, the Authority has not been in a
position to do the surveys to which Vice Chairman Bradshaw is referring.
We have not had the money to bring someone in to do this, nor the staff.
The Authority has presented in this budget the facilities it is responsible for
maintaining. The County has facilities that are designed for particular
interests, such as the skating rink, and the County also has facilities that can
provide for general services, such as Nike and Robinson Parks. As far as
programs, the County needs to find out what the citizens want and how to
go about providing such programs. With the additional. schools and
auditoriums, the County is now in a position where it can offer some
cultural arts types of activities.
Supervisor Spivey stated a needs assessment is part of the mission of
the Authority to address what the needs are and to plan accordingly.
Supervisor Bradby stated Parks and Recreation is an ideal way to curb
the crime rate in the County and one day he hopes there will be some kind
of facility in each district of the County.
Mr. Nogiec stated if there are citizens interested in a particular
program, the Authority will do everything possible to initiate it.
Mr. Nogiec noted a plan has already been prepared for Tyler's Beach
which would be a great. area if the County. can develop the facility.
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Vincent Doheny, Director for the Western Tidewater Community
Services Board,.stated he is requesting an increase of $280,199 for the cost
of doing business on memberships and subscriptions, advertising, utilities,
supplies, printing, facility, equipment maintenance, vehicle operating costs,
insurance and a 5% increase in postage. Mr. Doheny stated $2.86 is
received from the County per capita which is the.. highest of the four
participating communities. Mr. Doheny stated services are now provided
for 813 County residents and for every dollar provided by the County, the
County receives back $28.67. Mr. Doheny stated the State funds per capita
are 33% or $19.51 and Federal funds are 4.5%. Other funds per capita,
which are interest and donations received, is 4.6% or $4.23. We receive 54%
which is earned through fees and workshop sales, he stated.
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BOOK ~6 PAGE ~31
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Diane Howard, Director of the Isle of Wight/Smithfield Tourism-
Bureau, stated a survey was performed recently of 30 tourist related
businesses in the County which determined 26 to have increases in 1994.
Ms. Howard stated the percentage of increase due to visitors in the area
averaged out to be a 45% increase with ten businesses advising of an
increase in hiring of personnel. Ms. Howard stated in 1993 there was a 39% .
conversion rate, with no visitors from four states in the United States and
noted the top three foreign countries. Ms. Howard stated In 1994, the
conversion rate was 66%, with no visitors from three states, and the foreign
visitation from the top three countries were the same as 1993. Ms. Howard
stated St. Lukes Church is the County's top tourist attraction with 18,000
visitors for 1994. Ms. Howard stated for the second year in a row, a large
increase is being requested from the Tourism Bureau in operating money,
with no capital improvement money. Ms. Howard stated the Tourism
Bureau in July of 1995 must begin paying rent and utilities because the
Chamber of Commerce will no longer carry the Bureau in-kind for -that
item. Mrs. Howard stated in January, the Chamber of Commerce plans to
move from its present facility and the Bureau must either go with them or
stay where it is although the Tourism Bureau has not yet reached. a
decision. Ms. Howard stated she does not believe the budget will continue
to increase in the amounts it has in the last two years providing the Bureau
can be funded this year. Regarding the telephone. and postage line items,
the Bureau's request is up by 200%.
Chairman Cofer asked if the rent would go to APBA.
Ms. Howard stated if the Bureau remains in the .old Courthouse, the
rent would go to the APBA. The utilities are excessive because the building
is old with high ceilings and no insulation, stated Ms. Howard.
Bob Alpino, Administrator for the Health District,. stated the Health
Department is requesting a 3% inflation adjustment from the County's
portion of the proposed budget in the total amount of $326,613. For
FY1994-95, the County's contribution to the overall budget was only 13.8%
of the-total expenditures because the Health Department earns revenues.
The State employees are. now in the middle of a State hiring freeze since
December. 1, 1994 and the Governor -has signed a severance package bill
where employees will have to indicate by March 31, 1995 if they plan to
leave State service on May 1, 1995. Last year, $24,000 was returned to the
County which was not spent by the Health Department.
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Andy Rose, Walter Cecil Rawls Library, stated the Library is
requesting a proposed budget increase of 5%. The new library in Windsor
was opened last year with plans for a new library in the Carrollton. area.
The increase this year is mostly due to salary increases for the entire system
because over the past three years, the Library experienced three years. of
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zero increases, one year. at a 2% to 4% increase and last year at 2%. Mr.
Rose stated the Library has decided that if shortfalls are experienced in their
budget request, that area will suffer the consequences.
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Mitchell Hunter, Treasurer of the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department,
stated the Department is expecting a pumper truck to arrive in June of 1995
with an insurance premium due of approximately $2,000. Mr. Hunter
stated the Department is now operating equipment that is 20 years old with
increased expenses. The Department now has 35 active members with full
equipment, equating to a cost of approximately $2,000 per member,
including pagers. The Department is .answering '80% of calls from the
County and 20% from the Town of Windsor and both the County and the
Town contribute on a percentage .basis. The requested amount is $46,650
from the County. Last year the County contributed $22,048 and the Town
contributed $15,750. The agreement between the Department and Pierce
Truck Company was $229,000. and the new truck is anticipated to go on the
production line in April of 1995. .Pierce Truck Company has asked the
Department to send members out to inspect the truck on the 22nd .and 23rd
of May with. the. intention of making delivery of the truck on June 21, 1995
in Windsor. Included in the contract is an advanced discount and if the
County. can provide a check for $4,771 sixty days before the delivery date
this amount will be discounted from the $229,000 which would bring. the
cost of the truck down to $224,229.
Supervisor. Bradby asked if the insurance costing $2,000 would be an
additional premium.
Mr. Hunter replied "yes". The Department's insurance runs
approximately $10,000 per year and up until two years ago the Town of
Windsor took care of those items, but they have now decided the
Department should pay its own bills.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Hunter if the Department has
worked with the Volunteer Fire Departments and Rescue Squads
Association because he understands they are attempting to consolidate
insurance.
Mr. Hunter stated at the present time, the Department is in the
processing of incorporating and at that time the Association will attempt to
come. up with realistic figures.
Supervisor Bradby asked why the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department
is just now incorporating.
1 Mr. Hunter stated several months ago the County Attorney was asked
to explain the incorporation process to the members although he did not get
to the meeting. The Fire Chief brought in an attorney two months ago and
the Department is now in the process of incorporating.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Hunter if the Volunteer Fire
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Departments and Rescue Squads Association is supporting the Department's
operating budget.
Mr. Hunter stated the Association has. not looked at individual
operating budgets. The Association wants the bepartment to incorporate
first and they will proceed from there.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Mr. Hunter if the Department has not .
been involved in the Association.
Mr. Hunter stated the Fire Chief has attended several meetings but
has not brought any information back to the Department and the
Department has not agreed or voted to get into the Association.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked the County Attorney to elaborate on
what involvement there is with the Department and the Association.
County Attorney Crook stated the Department has been discussing
incorporation for approximately a year.
Mr. Hunter stated as of the. January meeting the necessary paperwork
is in the hands of Mr. Rawls who is doing this without payment.
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Diane Hall,. Director of the Genieve Shelter, stated she is requesting
$3,000 in her proposed budget. Ms. Hall stated when she took the position
the Genieve Shelter budget was $54,000 and at close out for this year will
be $115,000. Ms. Hall stated she found additional grant sources that are.
stable and next year's budget is projected to be approximately $125,000.
The Shelter services the County, Town of Smithfield, Suffolk, Franklin,
Southampton County and Surry County in a 117 mile radius.. Ms. Hall
stated there are three full-time staff people, one shelter with five beds
located in Suffolk, and a transitional house opened last November in the
County where one family can stay for up to one year. The lease is $1 for
ten years with the Farmers Home Administration. Ms. Hall stated the
County's contribution will often be combined with other contributions from
local governments to match a grant or it goes into the general operating
fund.
Vice Chairman Bradshaw asked Ms. Hall how she could be reached
by organizations that wish to contribute.
Ms. Hall stated she can be reached at the 1-800 number.. The State
received $44,000 from State grants last yearand $25,000 from a Federal
grant that may not exist next year.. The Shelter `:receives $17,000 each year
from fund raising and local contributions.
Supervisor Spivey asked Ms. Hall if she refers out to other localities
when she does not have a place for someone.
Ms. Hall replied "yes" no one is ever left at home in a dangerous
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situation. There are five shelters in the Tidewater area .and the Genieve
Shelter sends women to Newport News, Williamsburg, Norfolk and
Portsmouth.
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At 4:40 p.m., Chairman Cofer moved the Board adjourn the work
session meeting.. The motion was adopted unanimously (5-0).
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Malcolm T. Cofer, Cha man
W. Dou as askey, Cl
M