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~~~ John Link went through the budget for each department highlighting any additions that will require new money. When the budget for the Department of Social Services was presented questions were answered by Social Services Board members or Director Marti Cook. A lunch break divided the morning and afternoon sessions. John Link went through the projects included in the Public Works budget, the Health budget and continued through the budget document. A joint statement was made by the Health Board, Social Services Board and the Advisory Board on Aging as follows: "The human services complex is a high priority item to the three boards. They would like to be involved with the planning and designing of the complex. Appropriate space is essential to the delivery of services and is needed by all three departments." Jim Singleton spoke as a member of the CIP Study Committee and stated that DSS is out of compliance with state standards. They need a plan of action. Also they are in violation of the fire code. He stated that the human service needs and facilities were not a high priority by the Study Committee and proposed that the Board remove the Southern Human Services complex from the bond issue (CTP package) and fund it through other sources. Gene Howden spoke for the Health Board. He supported a new building complex. A new designed facility at Northside would better serve the public. Now is the time to design. a facility that would meet the needs of the citizens. He asked that this be put on the priority list. Betty Landsberger spoke for the Advisory Board on Aging. She stated that the Board has discussed space needs for about a year. A great deal could be gained by having these three agencies together and it will improve the effectiveness of service delivery. She encouraged the Board of Commissioners to consider any other agencies for this complex that may be a part of the complex -- license bureau or voter registration. _:~' Dick Hildebrandt spoke in favor of doing something for the Cedar Grove Center and the Efland Center. Chris Nutter spoke on behalf of the DSS Board commending the County Manager and the process followed in doing this years' budget. The DSS Board approves the Manager's recommended budget. John Link continued reviewing the budget document with the Sheriff's Department and Emergency Services. Discussion ensued on the fire inspector position. John Link stated that a full-time person could be justified. This person would do fire inspections, investigate fires and assist Bobby Baker. The half-time position was supported by the Board of Commissioners. Commissioners Willhoit and Hartwell questioned if the county could get at least a part of the revenue for this position from the fire districts. Commissioner Hartwell brought up the issue of volunteer fire departments and a problem with getting water. They have not been able to get OWASA to put in a hydrant for White Cross. The employee compensation package was discussed. Commissioner Carey stated that he feels the County is moving in a good direction in recruiting with a new salary schedule and maintaining the merit plan and feels we should have a dental program, but not this year. Commissioner Marshall agreed. Health insurance costs were discussed. Commissioner Marshall stated that if it is agreed that all the employee benefits will be reviewed to evaluate how many are using the benefits currently available including the cafeteria plan that she would go along with approving the addition of the dental plan this year.