[2:12] >> Please fill out a speaker card.
[2:16] Each person addressing the board shall have three minutes
[2:19] to complete his or her comments on each agenda item for which he
[2:23] or she has filled out a card.
[2:25] The chair has the discretion to determine or alter the time
[2:28] limits on any agenda item.
[2:29] The Board of County Commissioners requests
[2:32] that speakers appearing under the public Comment
[2:34] section of the agenda limit their comments or presentations
[2:37] to matters relating to county business that
[2:40] are within the board's control, authority, and jurisdiction.
[2:46] >> Okay our invocation today will be given by doctor Bob
[2:49] Bostic.
[2:50] Technically where unable to start till 505
[2:55] so you have a long floor.
[2:56] You can give a long prayer.
[3:02] Thank you for --
[3:04] >> You're welcome let us pray heavenly father God
[3:07] we're so grateful to be here tonight.
[3:09] Thank you for your divine protection all day
[3:12] long and because of you we're here safe.
[3:15] And God tonight as we enter this meeting,
[3:19] we ask for your divine understanding and unity.
[3:24] And we thank you Lord for your divine wisdom.
[3:30] And God we just give you the glory
[3:32] for what you're doing within this board.
[3:34] We pray that you bless them individually.
[3:39] Bless their families, keep them safe, in Jesus name.
[3:43] And God as a county our children has gone back
[3:48] to school and Lord, we pray for blessings and protection
[3:53] for every school and in Brevard County.
[3:56] God we plead the blood of Jesus over them.
[3:59] That should keep them safe all year long.
[4:04] However they get to school, ride the bus, walk,
[4:08] mother father grandmother take them to school,
[4:12] God protect them and keep them focused this year
[4:15] God help them to be attentive.
[4:18] In the classroom.
[4:20] Bless the teachers God with divine wisdom.
[4:22] Help them Lord to help those that are in need
[4:26] of just a little extra help.
[4:29] Give to them that insight God.
[4:31] And we thank you for doing that.
[4:34] Of course, bless the superintendent.
[4:37] And his staff.
[4:39] And we thank you for leading and guiding
[4:42] them to help us turn this year.
[4:46] And God, of course our policeman's.
[4:51] And our firemen's.
[4:53] And our mayors and city commissioners.
[4:56] Bless them abundantly.
[4:58] Keep them as well.
[5:01] Safe Lord.
[5:02] As they do their jobs to keep us safe.
[5:06] And we give you to glory as a whole, as a county, for blessing
[5:11] this county Lord.
[5:13] And yes, the United States of America, we pray as a whole.
[5:18] Bring our troops home safe.
[5:21] And we just think thank you for what you're doing.
[5:24] Within us all in Jesus name I pray.
[5:26] Amen.
[5:27] >> Amen thank you so appropriate.
[5:30] School crossing guards are a part
[5:32] of this budget we're voting on today so.
[5:34] School prayer is very Appropriate.
[5:37] Okay.
[5:38] Today, we'll have --
[5:43] Commissioner Bridget lead us in the pledge.
[5:50] >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States
[5:52] of America and to the Republic for which it stands,
[5:52] one nation under God, indivisible,
[5:54] with liberty and justice for all.
[6:08] Chair Altman: Almost there.
[6:09] This agenda.
[6:11] >> Mr. Chair could I make a motion to allow Commissioner
[6:15] Goodson to participate by phone?
[6:17] >> I'll second.
[6:21] Chair Altman: Okay there's a motion
[6:23] in a second to allow Commissioner Goodson
[6:25] to participate by phone.
[6:26] All in favor say aye.
[6:29] Motion carries unanimously.
[6:31] Okay that works out perfect it's 505.
[6:34] So we can begin.
[6:37] So public hearing, we'll start with D1 the item agenda D1.
[6:44] Jim.
[6:44] Go ahead.
[6:45] >> All right thank you Mr. Chair.
[6:48] Item D1 allows for the reading of the tentative aggregate
[6:51] operated military to fund the portion of the fiscal year
[6:54] 2026 2027 budget.
[6:56] That is supported by property taxes.
[6:59] At this time I will ask the Budget Office
[7:00] to read into the record the tentative aggregate millage rate
[7:03] for FY, fiscal year 2026 2027.
[7:09] >> The aggregate quantitative military for 2026 2027 is 4.7492
[7:14] the tentative aggregate military represents a 6.12% increase when
[7:19] compared to the aggregate rollback rate of 4.4753.
[7:22] The tentative aggregate military represents a 5.75% increase when
[7:27] compared to the current fiscal year 2025 2026
[7:30] aggregate military of 4.4909.
[7:36] >> Commissioners as approved by the Board on July 21st 2026,
[7:40] tentative militias have been set at the rates required to fund
[7:43] board priorities.
[7:44] Including the Animal Care Center,
[7:46] roadway improvements jail infrastructure and other county
[7:49] facilities.
[7:50] Additionally tax rates are set to mitigate impacts
[7:53] newly mandated expenses while ensuring reserves
[7:55] are adequately funded.
[7:56] Agenda item D2, the board will hear comments from the public
[8:01] and then discuss the mileages and associated revenue
[8:03] and agenda item D three.
[8:05] >> Okay great no vote is required on this point.
[8:09] Our next item is agenda item d2.
[8:12] >> All right thank you Mr. Chair item D2 allows for the public
[8:15] to comment on the revised tentative county budget
[8:18] for fiscal year 2026 2027.
[8:20] Before we begin public comment I would ask the Budget Office
[8:23] read into the record the revised tentative budget information.
[8:27] >> The fiscal year 2026 2027 budget is $2,425,838,420.
[8:33] This budget represents a decrease of $161,915,446
[8:40] or 6.2.6 percent less than the fiscal year 2025 2026.
[8:48] Current budget of $2,587,753,866.
[8:58] >> And Mr. Chair we are now ready to set public comments
[9:02] on revised fiscal budget for year 2020 627.
[9:08] >> First comment is Richard Heffelfinger.
[9:18] >> Good evening couple Jennifer Drive district one.
[9:22] I'm going to make my final plea to try to help control some
[9:25] of the costs for our citizens.
[9:27] I believe that designating the animal facility
[9:31] is not a critical need or an emergency.
[9:34] And I would like to ask the board to remove $5 million
[9:37] designated for that.
[9:39] From the increase over the proposed millage.
[9:42] To the General fund.
[9:44] The reason that I say that it's not critical
[9:47] is it's an animal care facility that currently is one,
[9:50] yet it's 30 years old I realize that.
[9:52] But I don't see that as meeting the requirements of being
[9:55] critical or an emergency need.
[9:57] I also believe that the animal care facility back in, let's see
[10:04] we had a meeting on -- oh jeez when was it.
[10:11] Where we had a budget adjustment,
[10:13] a third quarter budget adjustment.
[10:15] And it was identified where you guys actually
[10:18] saw some general fund savings or I shouldn't say savings permit
[10:22] there were increases due to funds interest
[10:24] and you applied them at that time
[10:26] towards some of the stuff that was
[10:27] identified as critical need in the workshop.
[10:29] There was also one that identified
[10:31] at almost $5 million additional increase in what the Sheriff had
[10:37] in his 410 fund Mstu.
[10:40] And that has been added to the proposed budget.
[10:43] It shows that he's got a carry forward now
[10:45] of it's almost $8 million.
[10:48] And it shows that only about half of that was allocated,
[10:51] so there's this almost, that animal shelter
[10:55] funding in that Mstu fund that's not being expended this year.
[10:58] I think if it's a critical need and emergency
[11:00] and since animal care facility falls under the Sheriff,
[11:03] I believe that he could go back and allocate that money,
[11:06] you could get both things and reduce
[11:07] the cost in the general fund to the taxpayers.
[11:11] And that's what I would like to see
[11:13] happen is a motion to remove the 5 million
[11:15] and then maybe a recommendation to the Sheriff,
[11:18] I don't know who allocates this budget how
[11:20] those decisions are made.
[11:21] I know you give it to him.
[11:22] But I would like to see him say that that is a priority
[11:26] or critical for him since it's under his funding.
[11:28] And move some of that money that he does have.
[11:30] Thank you.
[11:31] >> Thank you.
[11:33] Dalton Simpson, our next speaker.
[11:41] >> Hey how are you guys doing tonight?
[11:43] My name is Dalton Simpson and I'm
[11:45] coming here to speak to you guys about the Strat League baseball
[11:48] fields.
[11:48] In cocoa.
[11:50] Recently come on a few pictures and stuff
[11:53] have been brought to my concern with they
[11:55] sword, the flooding, and baseball
[11:58] I believe baseball seasons, if it hasn't already
[12:01] started it's about to start.
[12:02] Right now with the heavy rain, it's
[12:04] starting to cause a lot of flooding, a lot of sod.
[12:06] I see that you guys and I'm just starting to get into this,
[12:09] I see you guys got like a deal with cocoa
[12:12] but they're more in supposed to take
[12:14] care of like the structures and stuff,
[12:16] and you guys are supposed to maintain
[12:19] the fields and irrigation and then any stuff like that.
[12:23] So basically, to get started, good evening my name
[12:26] is Dalton Simpson and I'm here tonight
[12:28] to speak about the flooding and ongoing conditions
[12:30] at Strat League baseball fields.
[12:32] This is about more than what grass or field looking bad,
[12:36] this is about a public facility that our children, families,
[12:39] coaches and community are supposed
[12:40] to be able to use safely.
[12:42] When these fields still flooded they
[12:43] can't be maintained properly.
[12:45] Practices and games are affected,
[12:47] the fields deteriorate and it creates safety concerns
[12:49] for the kids using them.
[12:51] What I'm asking the county tonight is simple.
[12:54] We need answers.
[12:54] We need to know what is actually causing the flooding, who
[12:58] is responsible for addressing it,
[13:00] and what the plan is to fix it.
[13:01] It is a drainage issue, is there a problem
[13:04] with the ditches covert swells stormwater?
[13:07] System or the grading of the property?
[13:10] I'm sorry.
[13:11] I'm a little nervous.
[13:13] >> You're doing great.
[13:18] You're finding your way.
[13:21] Maybe -- I have seen pictures of strategy as it's a mess and it
[13:26] is a public safety.
[13:27] I feel bad for those kids.
[13:28] Jim did you?
[13:30] >> Mr. Simpson I haven't read it but I saw part of the email
[13:34] and an email chain going through our parks folks have worked with
[13:36] the City of Cocoa in a bunch of issues.
[13:39] Flooding was in there, septic to sewer was in there.
[13:42] And that gentleman right there, where is he.
[13:45] Ian gonna if you want to meet with him as soon as you're
[13:48] done speaking, he can give you an update on what's going on.
[13:51] >> I've seen his name too and I also see you guys lost a lot
[13:54] of money these past few years on that part of funding to.
[13:58] So this is the thing.
[14:00] I don't -- I play baseball there my mom did as well.
[14:04] My child's young right now.
[14:05] I just see a lot of people talking about it
[14:06] but that's all they do is talk on the internet.
[14:08] I wanted to show them this is where you come
[14:10] and where if you want to see changes happen
[14:12] this is where you got to do it.
[14:13] So I appreciate you guys giving me that time.
[14:15] I found my spot if you want me to finish.
[14:17] If not -- I apologize.
[14:20] So pretty much here it is.
[14:22] This is the ending.
[14:27] And grading the property.
[14:29] Whatever the cause is I'm asking for the county
[14:31] to inspect the problem, give the community a clear answer,
[14:35] our kids deserve a safe playable baseball field,
[14:37] the coaches and parents who volunteer their time
[14:40] deserve better and the taxpayers deserve
[14:42] to know that our parks and recreational facilities
[14:45] are being maintained.
[14:46] I'm not here tonight just to complain,
[14:48] I'm here because I want to help get something done.
[14:51] So I'm asking the county to identify
[14:53] the department responsible, which you just did,
[14:57] and inspect the flooding engineering
[14:58] conditions at Bradley Park and provide
[15:00] the community with a real plan and timeline
[15:03] for correcting the problem.
[15:04] A lot of people in the community care about these fields
[15:06] and we're paying attention.
[15:08] We just want to see strategy become safe, usable baseball
[15:12] field for our kids and before I finish
[15:14] I want to say rest in peace coach Keith Warden
[15:17] his impact on these kids in this baseball community
[15:20] should not be forgotten.
[15:21] Thank you.
[15:22] >> Thank you for being here and I know I share your concern I
[15:26] know the commission as well up there.
[15:29] That district and anything we can possibly do.
[15:32] I've personally come up I feel your pain
[15:34] I live through the same thing with my kids.
[15:36] We had mud fields in Viera now look at them.
[15:39] Med fields and Med Island they've gotten better.
[15:42] So.
[15:43] This is important come out these kids
[15:46] so I appreciate you being here and bringing attention.
[15:48] >> I remember there was a time when Cocoa went away from being
[15:52] in the Little League World Series they produced a lot
[15:54] of good stuff so thank you.
[15:55] I appreciate everybody.
[15:56] >> Ian right there.
[15:59] Yes.
[16:00] Chair Altman: Thank you.
[16:02] Okay I think that's all of our cards in D2.
[16:05] Okay.
[16:06] We will move on to no vote required at this point.
[16:12] We'll move on to item, agenda item D3.
[16:16] >> All right commissioners item D3 is recommended,
[16:21] it is recommended that the Board of County Commissioners discuss
[16:24] a tentatively adopt the fiscal year 2026 2027 millage rates.
[16:29] This item reflects the rates that were approved
[16:31] by the board in July of 2026.
[16:34] The countywide General fund ad valorem military
[16:36] has been tentatively set at the critical need rate of 3.094 to.
[16:42] This rate will require supermajority vote
[16:45] for the approval and in accordance
[16:46] with the county's charter cap and the state statute.
[16:49] Additionally any millage rate set above the rollback rate
[16:52] now requires at least a supermajority approval
[16:55] as a result of recent legislation associated
[16:57] with property taxes.
[16:58] Any changes to the millage rates under this item's, excuse me,
[17:03] let me resay that.
[17:04] Any changes to the millage rates under this item
[17:06] will be recomputed and announced under item D4.
[17:11] Chair Altman: Okay we do have One card.
[17:17] JJ Wolsey?
[17:29] >> Good afternoon honorable commissioners,
[17:32] county manager and of course I can't forget County Attorney.
[17:35] My name is Josh Woolsey.
[17:37] I'm not only a staff representative
[17:38] for the coastal Florida PPA.
[17:40] But I am a proud retired member of the Brevard County Sheriff's
[17:44] Office where I retired after 32 years of experience.
[17:47] With, as a Deputy Sheriff.
[17:49] On behalf of the coastal Flor PBA
[17:52] and hundreds of members that we represent, several hundred
[17:56] with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office,
[17:58] we are proud to stand before you tonight.
[18:01] As a collective bargaining unit representative the Sheriff's
[18:04] office, we have been blessed to represent an extraordinary group
[18:08] of men and women who passionately work together
[18:10] every day to keep this country safe.
[18:13] We also consider ourselves very lucky
[18:16] to have exceptional leadership in our commissioners,
[18:20] County manager, and the Sheriff who considers public safety
[18:24] number one.
[18:25] Brevard County is very unique to manage.
[18:29] We understand that.
[18:31] But through the tremendous relationships
[18:33] we all have forged, your support, your leadership,
[18:37] and your faith in us means so very much.
[18:40] And we can't thank you enough for making Brevard the safest
[18:45] county in Florida.
[18:46] Thank you.
[18:47] Chair Altman: Thank you.
[18:50] I think that is our final card and this, now the vote
[18:54] is required to have a vote tentatively
[18:57] adopt FY 2627 millage rates.
[19:01] Motion to approve.
[19:03] Is there a second?
[19:04] Second.
[19:05] Any discussion, debate?
[19:08] All those in favor say yea.
[19:11] Opposed.
[19:13] Passes four one.
[19:15] With Commissioner Feltner voting against.
[19:18] I heard him.
[19:20] That was a yay wasn't it?
[19:23] Commissioner Goodson?
[19:24] >> Sorry that was a yay.
[19:27] Chair Altman: Thank you.
[19:29] Okay.
[19:30] Next item.
[19:31] Item agenda D for Jim?
[19:34] >> Thank you Mr. Chair.
[19:37] Item differ based on the approved changes
[19:38] and millage rates of approved on the agenda item D3 I would now
[19:42] ask the Budget Office to read into the effort
[19:44] the revised aggregate >> The aggregate rollback
[19:48] rate for the fiscal year 2026 2027 budget is 4.4753.
[19:53] The aggregate tentative millage rate
[19:55] for the fiscal year 2026 2027 budget is 4.7492.
[20:00] The tentative aggregate millage rate
[20:03] is 6.12% more than the aggregate rollback rate.
[20:09] Chair Altman: Okay.
[20:10] Do we have any cards?
[20:12] We have no cards on this item.
[20:15] And no vote is required at this moment.
[20:18] So we'll move to agenda item D5.
[20:20] >> Thank you Mr. Chair.
[20:22] In accordance with the Brevard County Code of Ordinances,
[20:26] a requested adoption of fiscal Year
[20:28] 2026 2027 budgets for the following agencies.
[20:32] A solid waste management, b stormwater utility department,
[20:37] c fire services Non-ad valorem assessment,
[20:40] and D Millburn Tillman Water Control District.
[20:44] Chair Altman: Okay board vote is required
[20:46] to adopt budgets for these districts and programs.
[20:49] >> Make a motion to adopt.
[20:52] Chair Altman: There's a motion to adopt
[20:55] solid waste stormwater (Indistinct) is there a second?
[20:59] There's a second.
[21:00] Any discussion debate?
[21:01] All those in favor say aye?
[21:03] Yay.
[21:04] Opposed.
[21:06] Carries unanimously.
[21:08] Okay we will move to D6 Utility services.
[21:13] >> Thanks Mr. Chair.
[21:15] It is requested that the governing
[21:17] board of the barefoot Bay Water and Sewer District
[21:19] approve a resolution adopting a budget for the fiscal year
[21:22] 2026 2027.
[21:25] Chair Altman: Board vote is required to (Indistinct)
[21:30] water and Sewer district.
[21:31] Motion B in order.
[21:33] A motion to approval.
[21:36] Second.
[21:37] All in favor say aye aye.
[21:44] Opposed carries unanimously.
[21:47] Thank you we will move to agenda item seven.
[21:50] D7.
[21:51] >> Thank you Mr. Chair.
[21:54] Based on the action taken during this public hearing,
[21:56] I now ask that the Budget Office read in record
[21:59] the revised tentative budget for the fiscal year 2026 2027.
[22:05] >> Chair and Board of County Commissioners the revised
[22:08] tentative budget for 2026 2027 is $2,425,830,420,
[22:14] this represents a decrease of $161,915,446.
[22:20] Or 6.26% less than the fiscal year 2025,
[22:27] 2026 current budget of $2,587,753,866.
[22:37] >> Mr. Chair I request tentative approval of a resolution
[22:40] adopting the fiscal year 2026 2027 Brevard County Budget.
[22:45] Chair Altman: A motion to approve is there a second?
[22:50] A motion seconded tentatively approve the resolution
[22:53] of fiscal Year 2026 2027.
[22:57] Budget.
[22:58] All in favor say aye aye.
[23:01] [Members voting]
[23:01] Chair Altman: Opposed?
[23:04] Budget passes for one with Commissioner Feltman
[23:07] voting against.
[23:08] That concludes the tentative budget hearing
[23:11] and now moving on to more reports.
[23:14] We have D eight.
[23:18] >> Sorry a typo D eight utility barefoot bay utility rate
[23:24] resolution.
[23:24] Sorry.
[23:27] Chair Altman: Let me pull that out here.
[23:34] >> Mr. Chair we have 85 --
[23:36] Chair Altman: For some reason my agenda --
[23:51] Eddie we're ready.
[23:57] >> Good evening.
[24:00] D eight is the approval of the barefoot Bay services rate
[24:05] resolution amendment encompassing the barefoot Bay
[24:07] Water and Sewer District.
[24:09] This is the public hearing, we've done the advertisement,
[24:14] we're seeking board direction on the amendment to the rate
[24:18] resolution.
[24:21] Chair Altman:
[24:22] Chair Altman: Okay.
[24:22] We have three cards.
[24:24] First is Sidney James.
[24:44] >> Good evening commissioners.
[24:51] I want to say, there's a reason why the other five wastewater
[24:57] treatment plants in Brevard County
[24:59] are integrated into county system.
[25:02] There's a reason why a decision was never made to pull one out.
[25:08] Or separate all of them.
[25:10] I don't know the reasons why.
[25:14] But it feels like just unfair, I have
[25:21] to go back to that issue of fairness and equality.
[25:26] I know that the commissioners have received letters.
[25:29] It's because you are all part equal members of the governing
[25:34] body of the barefoot Bay Water and Sewer District.
[25:38] It doesn't fall on Commissioner Atkinson.
[25:40] The person who spoke about baseball field flooding, that's
[25:44] one district.
[25:45] All commissioners agree they don't want flooded baseball
[25:48] fields.
[25:49] Even if it's not in your district.
[25:51] We don't have a great rationale that
[25:56] would save your commissioner, your constituents money
[26:00] to integrate us sooner or you Mr. Altman.
[26:03] Or Mr. Feltner or Mr. Goodman.
[26:08] We are in favor of the rollback of 2025 rates
[26:14] by 5.55% with no further rate increases through 2030.
[26:20] We have read the rate analysis and we are in agreement of that.
[26:25] So we are due to vote yes.
[26:28] We also ask that you consider sunsetting,
[26:32] we are pleased that you have voted to sunset our district
[26:36] and integrate us into the countywide system.
[26:38] We just ask that you reconsider, and we'll probably
[26:43] continue asking that to do it sooner,
[26:46] to provide some meaningful relief for us.
[26:49] I would ask a question though that I would love an answer
[26:53] tonight if possible.
[26:56] Mr. Fontenot said on the August 4th meeting here that
[27:01] our utility is not in compliance with the DEP.
[27:04] We would like to know if that's true
[27:06] or not, and if so in what way.
[27:09] And if fines are being paid because of it.
[27:13] And I would like to ask each of you
[27:16] if you would share why you were in favor of integrating us
[27:21] into the countywide system once the bonds are
[27:24] paid but not sooner and leave it letting
[27:27] us continue to pay our bonds.
[27:29] Thank you.
[27:36] [Applause]
[27:37] >> Will mark those questions in here after we hear
[27:39] everyone's input.
[27:40] Next is Hannah Rylander?
[27:52] >> Good evening Mr. Chair members of the Commission.
[27:55] I am here also to support the rollback of our fees
[28:01] for 2026 back to the 2025 rates.
[28:06] 5.15%.
[28:07] And also, hold on.
[28:12] I am used to this and I should have this information memorized
[28:18] by now.
[28:22] And no further rate increases as has been stated
[28:25] and we really appreciate that.
[28:27] I mean -- the biggest reason that we're so concerned about
[28:31] this is because we have a lot of low income people living
[28:34] in our community.
[28:35] And these are retirees who are on fixed incomes
[28:38] and they are, they're hurting and our economy
[28:41] is pretty bad right now.
[28:43] So that's our mission here.
[28:46] Is to see what we can do to help them.
[28:49] And we're very happy that you're going
[28:53] to sunset our treatment plant.
[28:55] But again, there has to be some way that it
[28:59] will be beneficial to the county at large
[29:01] as well as the barefoot Bay water Sewer District customers.
[29:06] To have us integrated sooner.
[29:07] And we're going to try to work on
[29:09] that because we have inundated Commissioner Atkinson with lots
[29:14] of data.
[29:15] And we're continuing to research this
[29:17] but trying to figure out the numbers and how do they mesh.
[29:22] How is it that it would be beneficial to both parties
[29:24] without incurring any additional costs for them.
[29:27] It's important to us.
[29:28] As well.
[29:29] And I know it's important to you as well.
[29:32] So let's say.
[29:33] And then the bond that of course.
[29:35] We are still committed and understand
[29:37] that that is our obligation.
[29:38] And that we will pay that.
[29:40] And so if there is the possibility of integrating us
[29:44] sooner, then the end of 2029 beginning January 1st of 2030.
[29:51] We really would appreciate if you continued to work on that
[29:55] and look into that, it's important, it's very important.
[29:58] And the only, and that we would look to the bond debt
[30:06] as a separate line item.
[30:08] We're committed to paying that.
[30:09] We absolutely are.
[30:11] So thank you very much for your time.
[30:12] Appreciate it very much and please vote yes. (Laughs)
[30:16] Chair Altman: Thank you so much.
[30:18] Thank you.
[30:21] [Applause]
[30:21] Chair Altman: John?
[30:23] >> Good evening ladies and gentlemen.
[30:32] Here's a copy of what I gave miss Atkinson is
[30:36] over 500 copies of petitions.
[30:38] For what we're talking about.
[30:41] I also agree, we want to be integrated as soon as possible
[30:46] and we are thankful for the sunset.
[30:48] And the rollback we'd like to say.
[30:52] What I do understand is the dilemma
[30:56] that you have with your constituents.
[31:00] And here's what I would say to them because you're
[31:03] going to have to say something.
[31:06] I would say to them that you inherit
[31:11] what your predecessors did.
[31:13] Which was the wrong thing.
[31:15] And for a couple dollars a month that it's
[31:19] going to cost you constituents, it
[31:21] would be an immense relief to the people of barefoot Bay
[31:24] to correct that wrong.
[31:26] That's what I would say.
[31:28] And I want to follow it up with this.
[31:30] I want to put more time on this last couple sentences.
[31:33] So I retire from federal police officer.
[31:36] And during my time of being a police officer,
[31:41] some officers came in one day and told me have been situation
[31:45] during in-service.
[31:46] It was very bad.
[31:47] It was so bad that the military would not
[31:51] participate in that situation.
[31:53] Because of the serious, it could of physical harm
[31:57] and possibly death.
[31:58] I wrote up that incident.
[32:01] And I sent it through the proper channels.
[32:04] It wasn't long after that that I got a visit at 430
[32:07] in the morning I work night shift from my captain, when
[32:10] a captain comes in to see you at 430 in the morning that's
[32:13] not a good thing.
[32:15] He proceeded to tell me that he believed I did the right thing
[32:21] and did it the right way.
[32:23] And it definitely is probably saved some lives.
[32:26] But the two sent him in to request a picture of myself
[32:31] to put on his dartboard.
[32:33] And it was a good thing that I had already got promoted.
[32:37] Because I wouldn't see one.
[32:40] Okay?
[32:40] And I had to shower the channels and defend my case which I did.
[32:45] And I gave him an alternative for the solution which they now
[32:49] use.
[32:50] Now that decision I made cost me thousands
[32:54] of dollars in my retirement because I never
[32:57] got promoted after that.
[32:58] And to this day, being retired eight years.
[33:03] I made the right decision.
[33:06] There are consequences for doing something right.
[33:10] And I, and they hurt, on my retirement check.
[33:14] But it was the right thing to do.
[33:16] I would do it again.
[33:17] So I understand you have consequences
[33:20] to your constituents for the decisions you make.
[33:23] And I wanted to share that story with you
[33:25] so you know I understand.
[33:28] Chair Altman: Thank you for sharing that with us.
[33:31] That's all our cards.
[33:34] [Applause]
[33:36] Chair Altman: Miss Atkinson?
[33:38] Vice Chair Adkinson: If there's no board discussion
[33:41] I'd like to make a motion to approve.
[33:43] Chair Altman: Motion to approve and what we are approving is
[33:46] the Board of County Commissioners approve
[33:47] the barefoot Bay Utility Service rate resolution and consider
[33:51] barefoot Bay Water and Sewer District which reduces
[33:54] and maintains reducing rate until sunset on December 31st
[33:58] of 2029.
[34:00] Okay is there a motion in a second all in favor say yay.
[34:07] Opposed nay.
[34:10] Carries unanimously.
[34:11] Thank you.
[34:13] [Applause]
[34:16] Chair Altman: Okay thank you.
[34:19] All right.
[34:23] Okay.
[34:23] I think that's it.
[34:25] Do we have anything else?
[34:26] So let's go to board reports.
[34:28] County manager.
[34:29] >> I have no report thank Chair Altman: County attorney.
[34:35] >> I have no report district chair.
[34:38] Chair Altman: I handed out an item for the
[34:43] >> I would like to direct staff to come back and bring us some
[34:45] information that we could maybe look at doing a local option gas
[34:49] tax of something so we could maybe look over the last next
[34:53] couple of meetings.
[34:53] A lot of that will weigh upon, if we get this
[34:57] and it's a user fee you guys next year would maybe
[35:00] not be able to have to do anything different with taxes
[35:02] or lower them if we get more money coming in
[35:04] with this to help cover roads infrastructure.
[35:07] So if you guys are willing I'd like
[35:09] to get a motion to set to staff to go put together
[35:12] some information for us.
[35:16] Chair Altman: Okay.
[35:17] >> I'll second the motion but I have a question if I may.
[35:23] My question would just be how does this plan come up
[35:26] because I don't know, how does this play into people who drive
[35:28] electric cars on our roads?
[35:30] It doesn't?
[35:31] So what do we do about that?
[35:33] Does anybody have any thoughts?
[35:35] >> Can I say one thing.
[35:38] I'm sorry Mr. Chair.
[35:39] Chair Altman: Yes go ahead.
[35:44] Commissioner Feltner: When gas tax was conceived
[35:46] this was an easy thing when the person who owned the pump
[35:50] was the tax collector.
[35:51] So it has changed drastically and so
[35:56] when you increase these things, you're
[36:00] continuing to get an increase share of declining market.
[36:05] So you're not really addressing the problem.
[36:07] Because cars are, I mean it's a good thing,
[36:10] are becoming more efficient they're more electric cars there
[36:13] are more hybrids.
[36:14] Rideshare, there's all kinds of things.
[36:18] So it's not a long term fix at all.
[36:22] You'll continue, I mean Florida Department of Transportation
[36:26] and Federal Department of Transportation officials
[36:30] are looking at something different
[36:32] because they know that gas tax revenue will continue to shrink.
[36:37] So that's -- I won't be voting for that but I just want
[36:42] to share with you that that's the problem with gas tax.
[36:46] >> I think if we just get some data back let staff bring us
[36:50] the numbers and the amount I'm not going to be here next time
[36:53] you guys do budgets I went through this one.
[36:55] It's tough it's either that or you're
[36:56] going to be cutting a lot of people's pace in.
[36:58] So I would rather just try to figure out
[37:00] a way we can do this because we can't keep taxing our citizens
[37:03] like we are.
[37:04] It's getting tough out there.
[37:06] And people are having a really hard time trying
[37:08] to pay their bills and it's not just on taxes it's everything.
[37:11] Peanut butter has gone from 378 to 7 something
[37:15] and it's just it's just wild so I thought it's something to look
[37:19] out for you guys in the future.
[37:20] And so I'd like to just have staff come back
[37:23] and find some data for us.
[37:26] >> Commissioner if I may.
[37:29] If I can just share about the timeline for this
[37:31] because depending on the direction
[37:34] the board looks at going, it could be important.
[37:37] There are two ways to unlock any of the gas taxes
[37:40] that aren't currently opposed here
[37:42] and one is by referendum and a general election.
[37:45] The deadline for 2026 for that passed in August.
[37:48] So no referendum this year and we're
[37:50] two years away from another referendum date.
[37:53] A supermajority, majority plus one vote could impose the gas
[37:59] tax, in order for that to be effective January 1st of 2027,
[38:05] the board would have to do that on or before October 1st of this
[38:08] year, we only have one regular meeting which is next week
[38:12] before then.
[38:12] So for anything to take effect 2027,
[38:16] next week's meeting would pretty much be the only opportunity
[38:20] to do that.
[38:21] If we're only talking about it for planning out into the future
[38:24] and if January 1st 2028 implementation date is okay,
[38:29] then we don't have that time pressure.
[38:30] I just don't want to bring back a lot of information for you
[38:33] at some point down the road and say but we didn't tell you
[38:35] it would be too late when we brought this
[38:37] to really do anything about it.
[38:38] So I wanted to share that timeline.
[38:40] >> I should have done this earlier but.
[38:43] Can a new board after they get the data look at it
[38:47] still like in December?
[38:48] Can they still?
[38:49] >> They can look at it in December but they wouldn't do
[38:53] anything that could take effect until the earliest would be
[38:56] January 28th at that point.
[38:58] >> You have another question.
[39:00] So if we did get the information right now,
[39:03] would it be outdated or useless?
[39:05] Later?
[39:06] Or would it still be relevant?
[39:10] >> I mean I assume it would still be relevant obviously
[39:13] the more data becomes the less relevant it is
[39:16] but if it's looked at, reasonable amount of time.
[39:24] >> But we could do it still put it on the ballot.
[39:27] Down the road to.
[39:28] >> Could put it on the ballot for the general election in 2028
[39:32] which means it can take effect in 2029 or by supermajority vote
[39:36] prior to October of next year the board could do something
[39:38] and it would take effect January 1st of 2028 but next meeting
[39:41] literally is the only opportunity if you want to do
[39:44] something for next year.
[39:45] >> So this can be something if amendment three goes through it
[39:49] will give you tools on the ballot later so.
[39:51] Just a thought.
[39:55] Chair Altman: I think it's prudent we could have had it
[39:57] on this year's ballot but there's
[39:58] a lot on this year's ballot already
[40:00] and I fear that we're overloading it.
[40:03] So we'll take a look at it.
[40:06] The electric car solution could be that service fee.
[40:10] Tax.
[40:11] That everybody would pay.
[40:13] You could put that on the electric bill
[40:15] and you could capture some of the road improvements
[40:18] from utilization of people with electric cars.
[40:22] >> Is it possible to do when they register their car?
[40:25] I mean I have no idea I just don't know.
[40:28] Chair Altman: If you're charging your car
[40:30] and you're paying a fee on the electricity and that money
[40:34] then would be going to roads.
[40:36] Then electric consumers would be paying more their fair share.
[40:41] >> Is that something staff could also look into in addition to?
[40:46] >> Can I say one thing about that just real quick.
[40:49] For the people who buy gas powered
[40:51] cars you would be taxing them twice because there's
[40:54] no way on an electric utility that you could just say well
[40:57] we're gonna charge the people who are
[41:00] charging the car in the garage.
[41:02] I'm not trying to be difficult. I'm just saying,
[41:05] Chair Altman: They would be paying more in electricity so.
[41:09] Because they're not charging their car
[41:12] they would not be charging as much.
[41:14] >> If you consume less electricity.
[41:17] You could say the same thing about the gas tax.
[41:20] I drive less or I drive for more efficient car
[41:22] and pay less gas tax.
[41:24] Chair Altman: It does help a little bit.
[41:26] It's not perfect.
[41:27] But at least if you're charging your car in your garage
[41:31] so you're going to be using more electricity than if you're
[41:34] paying on the electric bill you would capture that.
[41:37] >> But if there was a flat fleet at electric at registration
[41:41] of electric vehicle.
[41:43] Chair Altman: You could do that that would probably
[41:45] require state law.
[41:48] That's a good discussion we could have --
[41:51] >> The state has looked at that in a few legislative sessions
[41:55] it's been floated early on but has never gotten much traction.
[41:58] >> Didn't they have impact fee 30 years ago on new cars
[42:01] registered in the state and the court overturned that and said
[42:04] you can't do that, you can't charge a new person to the state
[42:08] more for their vehicle registration than somebody
[42:10] who's here currently?
[42:12] My vague recollection from 30 years ago was that was the case.
[42:16] >> I don't recall that but that would make sense.
[42:20] >> So I don't know how that's workable.
[42:23] >> I don't know about electric cars so I don't know.
[42:27] But you know about the stuff they plug in would there be some
[42:31] way to tap into that at different --
[42:34] >> Tax collector is going to say something but when you plug
[42:36] in to one of the charging things out there in the world,
[42:40] you might use your credit card or something like that.
[42:43] To pay whoever owns that because you're paying just like you
[42:47] would if you were going to a gas station.
[42:49] >> The 295 registration initial registration fee you discussed
[42:53] was ruled that it was creating two separate classes
[42:58] of taxpayers.
[42:59] And it was done away with.
[43:02] >> Is that by court or is that by --
[43:06] >> By court.
[43:08] You were in the legislature when it initially passed,
[43:11] I don't think you were there -- you may have been there when it
[43:14] was struck down.
[43:17] So that's what that was.
[43:19] It was creating two separate classes of taxpayers
[43:22] but you would also have to be careful of double taxation.
[43:27] >> Miss Cullen is there something that the electric car
[43:31] people, I'm sorry I'm really (Indistinct) have to do
[43:36] different to do any kind of charging fee at public places?
[43:39] That you know of?
[43:41] >> No we at the Division of Safety and Motor Vehicles we do
[43:47] not capture what type of power the car uses.
[43:52] So that would have to be a lot of legislation passed.
[43:57] Chair Altman: But if we did have that local service.
[44:02] Fee or tax.
[44:04] That charge for electricity it would capture some of it
[44:08] because an electric car users are going
[44:10] to be buying more electricity.
[44:14] >> I'm kind of thinking about the tourists that come through
[44:17] and they've got to pull over and charge up somewhere
[44:20] so that's what I'm thinking instead of it just being
[44:22] on the citizens here that everybody that drives through
[44:25] the area helps pay for it that's why I thought the gas --
[44:29] Chair Altman: Be a part of the service fee those charges
[44:32] in the county --
[44:34] >> If they have an electric bill yes.
[44:38] >> Looking at the numbers coming in this will help alleviate you
[44:41] guys for next year and hopefully we can not raise taxes next year
[44:45] at all and still be able to cover costs.
[44:47] But the amendment three is looking pretty daunting
[44:54] >> I'm not gonna call that one.
[44:58] [Laughter]
[44:59] >> Mr. Chair.
[45:00] Again not to be difficult but if you're charging electric vehicle
[45:04] with solar, there is no, there's not
[45:08] going to be a fee from a tax collector.
[45:11] Chair Altman: That's right that's exactly --
[45:14] and good for you if you're using solar --
[45:17] >> I'm with you I gave you guys a little solar panel
[45:19] to demonstrate that you can do this.
[45:21] And thankfully there's no one charging
[45:24] you to charge your phone up or what have you.
[45:27] So we would get nothing.
[45:29] You know for the electric vehicles --
[45:32] Chair Altman: That's not a lot.
[45:35] >> I can share that the last several years with
[45:38] the legislature they have had no appetite to increase fees.
[45:42] So I don't see that being something
[45:45] they would be in favor of.
[45:48] Chair Altman: Have an appetite because they've increased fees
[45:51] on counties and local governments.
[45:53] >> But not fees that are directly connected to them
[45:57] and those fees are.
[45:59] If you don't have any other questions I will sit back down.
[46:03] Chair Altman: You don't have to.
[46:06] >> I don't want to be up there.
[46:10] [Laughter]
[46:10] Chair Altman: Well we have a lot to talk about as we move forward
[46:13] additional budget workshops I think
[46:14] the commission's really done a phenomenal job up to this point.
[46:17] And we have one more budget hearing
[46:19] and if we get through it fine and Jim, I see you.
[46:24] >> Yeah Mr. Chair just a couple questions for you to make
[46:27] the vote is when would you like it brought back.
[46:31] Tax collectors correct but we'll look to see what some states,
[46:34] I vaguely recall some states charging
[46:35] registration fee we can always give you the information.
[46:38] I'll point out the, and I'm gonna
[46:40] get it wrong public utility taxed I believe
[46:42] that's what it's called.
[46:43] That's collected every city collects it
[46:46] with the county does not.
[46:47] So I don't know if you can use it for general funds
[46:50] so you might have some cities already
[46:51] using it for roadways improvements or transportation
[46:54] improvements.
[46:55] And she beat me to it.
[46:58] Third note tax collectors absolutely correct
[47:00] because I bought a car and paid the impact fee
[47:02] and then got it refunded.
[47:04] Those 36 years ago or whatever it was.
[47:12] Chair Altman: Okay.
[47:13] There's a motion and a second.
[47:14] Any discussion?
[47:15] All in favor say aye aye?
[47:19] Opposed?
[47:21] Passes -- Commissioner Goodson I didn't hear you.
[47:27] >> I'm sorry what --
[47:30] Chair Altman: Repeat that motion.
[47:33] >> Yes Commissioner Goodson I would just like to direct staff
[47:37] to come back with data for us next week so that come out this
[47:40] next week so we can look at it and maybe make a decision
[47:45] on whether or not we would be interested in the local option
[47:48] gas tax.
[47:49] Chair Altman: Okay Commissioner I voted yes for that
[47:52] and I'll vote yes again.
[47:54] Chair Altman: Okay yes thank you that's a four one
[47:57] vote with Commissioner Feldner voting against.
[48:00] Okay our next district two.
[48:03] Commissioner Goodson do you have a report?
[48:06] >> Not at all sir.
[48:10] Chair Altman: Commissioner Goodson.
[48:15] >> So I understand today it's the chair's birthday.
[48:18] Does that sound right?
[48:20] So I think we should all sing Happy Birthday.
[48:23] Chair Altman: Oh that would be wonderful thank you.
[48:27] >> Happy birthday to you.
[48:31] Happy birthday to you.
[48:34] Happy birthday dear (Indistinct)
[48:40] [Laughter] Happy birthday to you.
[48:44] [Applause]
[48:47] Chair Altman: Thank you that is a wonderful thought.
[48:49] Appreciate it.
[48:50] It's wonderful.
[48:55] >> (Indistinct)
[48:57] [Laughter]
[48:57] Chair Altman:71 today.
[48:59] 71.
[49:00] I'm thankful to be here.
[49:04] And thankful to all of you.
[49:06] Here today.
[49:07] And I have no report.
[49:09] And I think that's it.
[49:13] The meeting's adjourned.
[49:14] Thank you.
[49:17] >> The opinions expressed by any member of the public during any
[49:20] period of public comment do not necessarily reflect the views
[49:22] or opinions --