Minutes 05-24-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Margaret Samuels said that she is here as a representative for her son and his school. She asked the Board to consider funding the increase in the per-pupil funding as they did last year. Tony Blake read a prepared statement: "Thank you for this opportunity to speak. I am here tonight wearing two hats; one as a private citizen and taxpayer, the second as a member of the White Cross Volunteer Fire department and Presidents of the Board of Directors. First, as a private citizen I must say only that I find the fire tax much less onerous and the services that are provided much more visible than some of the other things I pay for in Orange County. I have spoken to no one in my community that objects to funding the fire departments or in particular to this proposed increase. As a member of the Board of Directors and a volunteer, I want to point out what you already know; that is that the district and County at-large is getting a terrific bargain from the services of the volunteers. Even though we do have some paid staff, the cost of duplicating what the district gets for free (the hours volunteers commit to service, maintenance and training) would require a substantial increase in revenues. It is imperative to recruitment and retention of volunteers that the Fire Departments have facilities and equipment that minimizes the risk members are exposed to. This increase will assist the WCVFD with funding facilities and equipment that meets at least the minimum safety standards outlined by the NFPA. In conclusion, I ask you not to short change the bargain we get from the volunteers and to please approve the relatively tine request for an increase." Bonnie Hauser read from a prepared statement: "Thank you for the chance to speak tonight on the budget. We appreciate the work of the county and the board to contain costs and avoid a tax increase despite cuts and uncertainty from the state. First—while we know money is tight—please fully fund the county's 12 volunteer fire departments. The total increase they are seeking about$150,000. As you know, they save us millions of dollars each year. It's a small increase for this highly leveraged network of firefighters and first responders who serve the entire rural community. As you know, each fire department operates under contract with the county and the tax increases will be directly funded by the community that is being served. We are grateful to our fire chiefs and the many volunteers who serve our community. Please help us say "thank you" and agree to fund the small increase they are seeking to continue to keep us safe. Third —thank you for taking on a review of benefits. We don't underestimate this issue but hope that this issue encourages you to consider local residents for part time employment to fill new positions and scheduling gaps. Thank you for working the difficult financial challenges facing our diverse communities. Norma White read from a prepared statement: "I'm from the Schley Community and I'm speaking for Orange County Voice. I'd like to discuss the convenience center hours and new fees. First—We appreciate the county's plan to reinstate hours at the Walnut Grove and Eubanks — but we need every center open on Sunday. The centers are crowded on Saturdays — and illegal dumping is increasing throughout county.