Minutes 06-09-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Paul Laughton said that this is on page 5-1. The expenditures total $6.4 million, which is a decrease of $90,000. He said that the Purchasing agent of the department has been moved to Financial Services, so the budget will be reflected in that way. There is also a reduction of an Office Assistant II position in the Administrative division. The person will be assigned to another vacant position in the County. The operation costs include a reduction of $350,000 in worker's compensation and an increase in operations for unemployment benefits of $25,000. Asset Management Director Pam Jones said that with the worker's compensation, they are on a high deductible plan. She said that she has requested a new custodial position and last year they did away with the Orange Enterprise personnel. The staff is starting to show some fraying. Commissioner Jacobs asked about 112 North Churton Street. He said that it would help to invite Preservation North Carolina to come to Hillsborough and work out something for this building. It seems that there are misconceptions. Pam Jones said that there is some room for interior space to be taken away from that contract. • Cooperative Extension Paul Laughton said that this is on page 10-1. Total expenditures are about $390,000, which is a decrease of $23,000. Effective January 1St of this year, all positions became State employees and are now budgeted as contract personnel per the agreement with the State. The County will continue to pay the same percentage share of personnel costs. The increase in operations is due to the Breeze Farm being moved to operations. Carl Maytac said that he wanted to address the transition from the County to State employees. He wants to make sure the Board and the public realizes that this in no way diminishes the commitment of Cooperative Extension to serve the County in every way possible. • DEAPR-Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation (including Fee Schedule change requests) Michael Talbert made reference to the green handout and the changes in the page regarding fee schedules to add to the budget book. The budget is $2.8 million, which is a decrease of $67,860 from last year. The Fairview Park has been recently opened as well as the Jones Creek Greenway. DEAPR Director Dave Stancil recognized his staff. He said that Durham County was recommending a reduction in funding to Little River Park in the amount of $8,000 and historically, Orange County would do the same. This will not be certain until Durham County adopts its budget in June. Commissioner Foushee asked about the request for a pickup truck for$13,000 and if this was a replacement. Dave Stancil said that a number of vehicles need to be replaced. There are other possibilities besides the $13,000, so he is trying some other alternatives. Commissioner McKee asked about matching the reduction and the effect on Little River Park. Dave Stancil said that the caretaker responsibilities would be increased and there may be a reduction of one weekday at the park. Discussion ensued about the seasonal staff for this park. Commissioner Jacobs said that he could not support someone working 35 hours a week for 12 months and not getting any benefits.