Minutes - 05-30-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Education The proposed budget calls far an appropriation of $53,885,103 far education. The increase of 5.5 million dollars addresses three major areas: • An increase in student population of aver 700 students • An increase in the school debt service payments of 2.6 million dollars resulting from sale of 1997 bonds • The implementation of the final phase of the Excellent Schools Act to raise teacher salaries by 6.5% The proposed budget addresses 95.25°~ of the requested funding from both school systems. The proposed budget does not include enhancements or improvements to programs, including the need for additional local teachers. Long-Term Affordable Housing The citizens approved an affordable housing bond of 1.8 million dollars in 1997. From that, bond funds were awarded to three housing projects this year. The County approved along-term housing affordability policy. The County Commissioners recently created two housing task forces to work with the other towns' non-profits and the University to address future affordable housing initiatives. In regard to a housing trust fund, the proposed budget calls for an appropriation of $250,000 from the County. The County and its partners in affordable housing have leveraged 46 million dollars and 977 units of affordable housing over the past 10-12 years. John Link feels that the housing trust fund should also be a collaborative effort with other organizations and municipalities and a challenge far the private sector to match funds from the County. Master Agina Plan The Master Aging Plan Task Force is coming forward after very in-depth work with recommendations for haw the County can improve promoting wellness, independence, and functionality of senior citizens. The $60,000 reserve provides funding for these anticipated recommendations. Increased Debt Service Two-thirds of the bonds that are being sold from the 1997 bond referendum will have no property tax impact because existing sales tax revenue will be used to address the first 37-38 million dollars. The bands, aside from providing for new schools, will also address parks and the renovation of Whitted and Northern Human Services centers. The County will save about 2.3 million dollars over the life of the debt due to favorable bond ratings. Staff Resources The proposed budget includes six additional staff members in the general fund -Social Worker (Aging}, Child Support Officer, Building Inspector, Inspections Clerk (Planning), Outdoor Recreation Specialist, and Community Social Services Assistant. There are other staff resources being requested that relate to increases in hours ar costs. The County is entering into the second year of atwo-year employee compensation plan. The proposed budget calls fora 3% cast of living adjustment effective July 1, 2000. The in-range salary progression will continue at 2.5°~ for employees whose work performance is proficient or better. Solid Waste The solid waste enterprise fund is paid for by tipping fees. It is recommended that the tipping fee be increased by $2 per ton -from $40 to $42 per ton. The solid waste budget includes reserves to address construction of the Rogers Road water line. There are also two new positions recommended to address the increased workload at the landfill site.