Denton County Commissioners Court
Courthouse on the Square
110 West Hickory, Denton, Texas
* * * * * Formal Agenda Minutes
Not Official Minutes. For official minutes, please contact the County Clerk at 940-349-2012.
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Denton County Commissioners Court |
Not Official Minutes. For official minutes, please contact the County Clerk at 940-349-2012. |
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August 1, 2000
Be it remembered that Commissioners Court of Denton County, Texas, met on this the 1st day of August, 2000, with Judge Kirk Wilson presiding. Commissioners Jim Carter, Scott Armey, Sandy Jacobs and Jeff Krueger were present, along with deputy clerk Kathleen Bransford, when the following proceedings were had, to wit:
Court opened with an Invocation by Robert Schell, Assistant District Attorney, Civil Division, and was followed by the Pledges of Allegiance to the American Flag and the Texas Flag led by Olive Stephens, Mayor of Shady Shores.
Mr. Schell: Lord, God, Heavenly Father, we thank You for this Country You have bestowed upon us. We know we are the caretakers and must pass this to our children. We pray that the decisions that will be made today will be for the benefit of the next generations. We ask You to guide this Commissioners Court, and give them wisdom, strength and courage to do what is best for Your people - our people of Denton County. In Your name we pray, Amen.
ITEM 3 CONSENT AGENDA (Items 8.A & 8.B pulled)
TREASURER
5.A) Approval of Payroll.
PURCHASING
6.A) Approval of specifications and authority to advertise for Armored Car Services, Bid #07-00-1382, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6.B) Approval of renewal for Detention Supplies, Bid #07-99-1237, to ICS for Items #1 & 5; Leslee Scott, Inc. for Items #2, 3, 6, 8 & 11; Action Team Medical for Item #4; Bob Barker for Items #7 & 9, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. C) Approval of award of bid for Bridge Rehabilitation/Repair, Bid #02-00-1311, to Seneca Contracting Corporation for $187,343, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. D) Approval of specifications and authority to advertise for Uniforms, Bid #05-00-1367, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6.E) Approval of specifications and authority to advertise for Office Furniture, Bid #06-00-1377, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. F) Approval of use of available Tax Notes for Motorola Feasibility Study on radio system integration with the City of Denton for $8,800.00, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. G) Approval of award of bid for Lubricants and Oils, Bid #05-00-1366, to Jessie P. Taylor Oil for Items #4 and 7, R & S for Item #6, Douglass Dist. for Item #2 and 3 and Superior Lubricants for Items #1 and 5, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. H) Approval of specifications and authority to advertise for Janitorial Paper Products, Bid #07-00-1379, and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
6. I) Approval of award for County clerk Records Management and Imaging System, RFP #01-00-1278, to Government Records Service, Inc., and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
BUDGET
7.B) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102090 to increase revenues and allocate expenditures for Computer Supplies for Computer Systems/County-Wide in the amount of $4,478 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-000
7.C) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102110 for Computer Supplies for Computer Systems/County-Wide in the amount of $37,500 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
7.D) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102130 for Dues and Subscriptions for Volunteer Fire Department in the amount of $7,500 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
7.E) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102140 for Computer Supplies and the creation of a new line item for county purposes for FY 1999-2000 for License and Weight in the amount of $1,820 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
7.F) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102150 for Vehicle Repairs for Constable Precinct #6 in the amount of $3,246 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
7.G) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102170 for Office Supplies and Training/Education for Juvenile Detention in the amount of $4,187 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
7.I) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102190 for Computer Service Expense for County Clerk in the amount of $2,700 - County Judge.
HUMAN RESOURCES
8.C) Approve changing 2 part-time Detention Officer positions (grade 16; slot #004-JD & slot # 010-JD) into 1 full-time Juvenile Detention Officer (position 18), Juvenile Detention - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
COUNTY CLERK
9.A) Approval of minutes for July 18, 2000, Formal Session - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
COUNTY PLANNING
11.A) Approve August 22, 2000 at 9:15 a.m. as date and time to conduct a Public Hearing to discuss and approve revisions to the Lake Ray Roberts Land Use Ordinance as requested by Mr. Jerry Campbell and recommended by the Lake Ray Roberts Planning and Zoning Commission - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
11.B) Approve August 22, 2000 at 9:20 a.m. as date and time to conduct a Public Hearing to discuss and approve revisions to the Lake Ray Roberts Land Use Ordinance as requested by Mr. & Mrs. Roy Donn and recommended by the Lake Ray Roberts Planning and Zoning Commission - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
Move to approve Consent Agenda with the exception of Items 8.A & 8.B by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0392
ITEM 4 COUNTY AUDITOR
Approval of Bill Report.
(Payments from Adult Probation, Community Corrections, Pre-Trial Services and District Attorney Check Fee Fund are presented for recording purposes only.)DELETION from the General Fund, $87.51 to Texaco Refining & Marketing, incorrect amount.
ADDITIONS:
To the General Fund, $150.00 to the Secretary of State, Election Div., Registration Fee for County Clerk;
To the General Fund, $290.98 to Progressive Concepts for DA/Metro Alien Task Force;
To TNCP, $1,142.94 to Texaco for gasoline;
To '99 Road Bond Fund, $507.00 to Dentex-1st American Title Company for ROW-Crawford Rd.Move to approve the Bill Report as amended by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0392
ITEM 6 PURCHASING
6.J) Approval of rejection of all bids for Denton County Courts Building - Courtroom Seating, Bid #05-00- 1360, and any appropriate action - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-03946.K) Approval of specifications and authority to advertise for:
a. Denton County Courts Building - Interior Signs, Bid #07-00-1384;
b. Denton County Courts Building - Furniture, Bid #07-00-1385;
c. Denton County Courts Building - Courtroom Seating, Bid #7-00-1386;
d. Denton County Courts Building - Detention Equipment, Bid #07-00-1388 and any appropriate action - County Judge.Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-03956.L) Approval of award of bid for Denton County Courts Building, Electrical, Bid #05-00-1363, to R. Taylor Electric, and any appropriate action - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-03966.M) Approval of rejection of all bids for Denton County Courts Building, Detention Equipment, Bid #05-00- 1356, and any appropriate action - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0397
ITEM 10 SHERIFF
10.A) Public Hearing held in compliance with the US Department of Justice, Office of the Justice Programs requirement in order to receive Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) funding; this public hearing is to discuss the allocation and intended purpose of FY1999 LLEBG funds for $49,972 and the local cash match amount of $5,552.00, wit: The purchase of a crime scene van and equipment for the Denton County Sheriff's Office Forensic Unit, and the purchase of a trailer and equipment for the Denton County Sheriff's Office Dive Team - County Judge.
Move to OPEN PUBLIC HEARING by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0Corporal William Rogers of the Sheriff's Dept. explained this grant to the court.
NO ONE SPOKE IN FAVOR OR IN OPPOSITIONMove to CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0NO ACTION REQUIRED ON THIS ITEM
ITEM 7 BUDGET
7.J) Approval of Budget Amendment Request #102230 for Training and Education for Commissioners Court in the amount of $7,000 - County Judge.
Move to approve by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0398
ITEM 8 HUMAN RESOURCES
8.B) Approval of the reorganization of the County Judge's Office including reclassification of the Economic Development Coordinator and the Director of Administration with corresponding salary adjustments - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
Move to approve by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-03998.A) Approval of Order Making Appointments. (The appointments for August 1, 2000, have been posted and advertised; and interviews were conducted as set forth in the Denton County policies adopted by the Commissioners Court, except as otherwise stated in the appointment orders. These appointments are within the budgetary restraints.) The following Order Making Appointments were approved: Julie Kringen, Community Service Aide/Immunization Grant; Alvin Hudson, Senior Clerk/Recording/County Clerk; Laura Woodruff, Registered Nurse/Public Health; Rebecca Barnes, Court Clerk/JP Pct.4; Laura Lea Lewis, Printing/Mail Supervisor/Print/Mail Department; Nessa Ahrens, Deputy Clerk/Civil/District Clerk; Virginia Varnado, Juvenile Corrections Officer/Juvenile Post Adjudication; Brian Rauch, Deputy Sheriff/Sheriff; Shala Blackmon, Director of Administration/County Judge; Elizabeth Hyden, Admin. Sec.-Warrants/Sheriff; Mikeal Robinson, Detention Officer I/County Jail.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0400D) Approve the structuring of Centralized Road & Bridge and how it relates to the Road Superintendent position and Public Works Director and any appropriate action - Commissioners Court. (Formal 7-25-00)
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0401E) Approve job description and ranking of the Corporal Investigator in the Narcotics Task Force - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0402
ITEM 7 BUDGET
7.H) Accept the effective and rollback tax rates for Denton County for tax year 2000 - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0403
ITEM 12 STANDING ITEMS
12.A) Approval of any appropriate action regarding project development, construction progress, and change orders to ongoing Denton County Projects: Sheriff's Office/Jail, Centralized Road & Bridge, Carroll Building, Denton County Courts Building, Denton County Annexes, and future Denton County Satellite Facilities - Commissioners Court.
NO ACTION
12.B) Approval of any appropriate action regarding ongoing, planned, and proposed county and state transportation projects; Denton County's Better Safer Roads Program; and any necessary action regarding the modification of the Denton County Master Thoroughfare Plan - Commissioners Court.
RETURN TO LATER IN THIS SESSION
12.C) Approval of any action regarding Denton County boards and committees - Commissioners Court.
Comm. Jacobs announced that she has been appointed to the International City/County
Management Association's 2001 Conference Planning Committee.12.D) Approval of nomination for Judge of County Criminal Court Number Five and any appropriate action - County Judge.
NO ACTION - WILL BE DISCUSSED IN THE BRIEFING SESSION
ITEM 13 NON-DEPARTMENTAL
A) Approval of restoration work on the fountains and statue at the Confederate Soldier Monument on the Courthouse-on-the-Square Lawn and any appropriate action - County Judge.
Move to approve the following to a committee to begin the restoration process: Carmen Rivera-Worley, Beth Fleming, Danny Brumley, Shala Blackmon, Betty Alford and Hank Scheible by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Jacobs, with a friendly amendment to include Willie Hudspeth by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0404
ITEM 14 LEGAL
14.B) Approval of: a) the Project for Road Reconstruction of Marshall Creek Road, and b) the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between the Town of Trophy Club and Denton County, Texas, for Road Reconstruction of Marshall Creek Road - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00
Move to approve by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-040514.C) Approval of Agreement between the City of Denton and Denton County, Texas Providing for Payment and Use of Hotel Tax Funds for the Courthouse on the Square Museum, $81,780.00 - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-040614.D) Approval of Agreement between the City of Denton and Denton County, Texas Providing for Payment and Use of Hotel Tax Funds for the Bayless-Selby House, $25,325.00 - County Judge.
REPOST
ITEM 12 STANDING ITEMS
12.C) Approval of any appropriate action regarding ongoing, planned, and proposed county and state transportation projects; Denton County's Better Safer Roads Program; and any necessary action regarding the modification of the Denton County Master Thoroughfare Plan - Commissioners Court.
Move to approve the following recommendation of John Polster, President of Innovative Transportation Solutions, Inc. Commissioners Court allocate $50,648.32 from each of the discretionary funds of the County Judge and Commissioner, Precinct 4; and, the amount of $50,648.32 from the I-35 widening project, which came in over budget, to the Old Alton Bridge restoration project for a total amount of $151,944.96. This action needs to be taken as soon as possible as the State of Texas is letting the project on Friday, August 4, 2000, so included in this action is the authorization for the County Auditor to issue the checks. Should there be any excess funds from the I-35 widening project, the discretionary funds from the County Judge and Commissioner, Precinct 4, shall be restored. This motion was made by Comm. Carter, and seconded by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0407
ITEM 14 LEGAL
14.E) Approval of Right-of-Entry Agreements in conjunction with the I-35 West Service Road Construction Project - County Judge.
Move to approve by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0408
ITEM 6 PURCHASING
6. I) Approval of award for County clerk Records Management and Imaging System, RFP #01-00-1278, to Government Records Service, Inc., and any appropriate action - County Judge. (Briefing 7-25-00)
This item was approved under the Consent Agenda earlier in this session. The following is a clarification motion: approve a correction to the contract, increasing the per documents a month from 9,000 to 12,500; thereby, reducing the cost of indexing from $2.14 to $1.91 per document, showing a savings of $34,500 a year for a total savings of $274,500 in the contract (including other savings with software, etc.) by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0409
ITEM 16 RECESS
ITEM 17 RECONVENE
ITEM 15 EXECUTIVE SESSION
For purposes permitted by Texas Government Code, Section 551.071 - Contemplated or Pending Litigation or Settlement Offer, Section 551.072 - Real Property, Section 551.074 - Personnel Matters, and Section 551.076 - Security.
Move to Convene in Executive Session by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
RECONVENE IN FORMAL SESSION15.A) Real Property: Texas Government Code, Section 551.072: Real Property - Commissioners Court.
15.B) Deliberation regarding security procedures and devices - Texas Government Code, Section 551.076 -Commissioners Court.
15.C) Consultation with Attorney: Pending Litigation - Texas Government Code, Section 551.071 (1)(A) Tarrant County v. Denton County, pending in the District Court of Parker County, Texas 43rd Judicial District, Cause No. 44051 - Commissioners Court.
15.D) Consultation with Attorney: Contemplated Litigation, Texas Government Code, Section 551.071(1)(A) Identification of parties and claims regarding possible breach of warranties and defects as relates to the Denton County Courts Building - County Judge.
NO ACTION ON ITEMS 15A THROUGH 15D
15.E) Consultation with Attorney: Contemplated Litigation, Texas Government Code, Section 551.071(1)(A), Trammell Crow Company v. Denton County - County Judge.
Move to approve the recommendation of the District Attorney, Civil Division, that this claim be settled in the amount of $72,232.25 (this amount having already been identified in May, 1999 by the County Auditor) and authorize the County Auditor to issue payment by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0410
ITEM 7 BUDGET
7.A) Approval of any action regarding Denton County's 2000/2001 Budget - Commissioners Court.
(The following is a paraphrasing of the highlights of the Budget Session.)
Item 7 Constable, Pct. 2
Donna Stewart, Budget Director, reminded the court that the position being requested - Traffic Enforcement Deputy - had already been approved by court contingent upon going through the budget process. The cost of the position is $78,835.00 with $80,000 in revenue coming from this position. However, it is her recommendation that the funding for this position be split between the Justice of the Peace and the Constable with the employee assigned to the Constable's Office.
Constable Floyd informed the court that presently there are 152 citations that have not been entered by the JP and subsequently, 116 arrests have been made.
Item 5 Operations
Ms. Stewart said that this department is requesting a new position - Inventory Clerk - at a Grade 19, Step 1 with funds being reallocated from the Selby House and Cars & Trucks line items to help fund this position. Human Resources has approved the position at a Grade 17, including Detention Officer I duties, as requested by Danny Brumley, Facilities Manager.
Judge Wilson asked what is the total impact?
Ms. Stewart answered that the total salary and benefits would be $30,062.00 and does recommend this position.
Comm. Krueger clarified that this is actually a savings in the budget?
Ms. Stewart said the savings would be approximately $3500 with Mr. Brumley's additional offset of $2,000.
Item 1 Non-classified Employees
Ms. Stewart recommended taking all non-classified positions to the survey average plus a 4% raise. Those exceeding the survey average will receive the 4% increase. The Elections Administrator Position is tied to the County Clerk position so there would be a $1700 reduction, even with the 4% increase due to the longevity accrual. Also, the County Auditor's salary cannot exceed the compensation and allowances of the highest paid elected county officer, other than a statutory judge. The County Judge's salary is $87,141, as will be the County Auditor's salary with a 10.64% increase. That is the maximum allowed at the salaries established for the Elected Officials - should there be an appeal from the Elected Officials, this amount could increase. Ms. Stewart explained the second page of the survey (Page 17 of the packet) shows that court reporter salaries are set by the District Judges and can be as much as 10% per year by statute. They are already above average but were granted a 4% increase. Should the Judges decided to increase this, court is required to do so.
Comm. Jacobs inquired as to whether or not the Elections Commission has addressed the salary of the Elections Administrator. She is hesitant to take action without a letter from the commission and requested that they meet.
Judge Wilson announced that he would call a meeting of the Elections Commission, based upon Comm. Jacob's request.
Ms. Stewart continued on the second page regarding the Probate Master position. This position is currently paid 80% of the County Court Judges salaries and since they will not be receiving an increase this year, neither will the Probate Master. That salary remains at its current $88,800.00. The Grand Total Salaries and Benefits will increase the budget by $38,736.00.
Comm. Armey believes that it would be detrimental to ask department heads to accept salaries below average as was required of the elected officials. To be fair and yet maintain a competitive edge for department heads, he proposed bringing those that were below average up to average plus a 4% increase for all. Besides the few that fall out of the average - the Elections Administrator, County Auditor, etc. - this formula helps Human Resource Department to remain consistent and follow Comm. Krueger's suggestion of adopting a pattern or philosophy.
Comm. Krueger commended the proposal by Comm. Armey as fair and adequate to all non-classified employees.
Judge Wilson commended Comm. Armey.
Comm. Jacobs also praised the proposal and asked that he include the approval of the Elections Commission and District Judges on the court reporters' and auditor's salaries.Move by Comm. Armey to approve a budget philosophy for non-classified employees for the following budget year: to take the survey average conducted by Collin County, and revised for Denton County's purposes, to bring all non-classified employees who fall below average to the average and then authorize a 4% increase to all non-classified employees. For the position of Elections Administrator, this motion is contingent upon the Elections Commission meeting and approving a salary. This proposal is also contingent upon the District Judges setting the salaries of the court reporters and county auditor. This proposal will be forwarded to them so they may understand the court's budget philosophy. This motion was seconded by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0411
Item 8 Public Health Department
Ms. Stewart asked the court to look at the Dr. Burton's request for a nurse position at a Grade 22, Step 2 salary of $39,282.00. There will no impact to the budget due Dr. Burton's recommendation that the Indigent Health Care line item be reduced by $40,000.
Item 14 Right of Way
Kelly Zwinggi, County Road Superintendent, presented his reason for reallocating $50,000 from the ROW line item to the Consultant line item. Bridge rehabilitation in the FY 2000 budget cost $60,000 for 6 bridges and he believes the number of bridges and the cost to repair will increase this next budget.
Comm. Jacobs commented that most of the county's ROW funds are coming out of the Better, Safer Roads Program and would support Mr. Zwinggi's recommendation.Move to reallocate $50,000 from the Right of Way line item to the Consultant's line item by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0412
Item 9 County Judge
Judge Wilson asked Ms. Stewart if this needed any budgetary action separate from the action taken in Formal Session.
Ms. Stewart said yes and recommended the following: eliminate the Economic Development Department at a savings of $58,570 and transfer funds from the operation budget of this department to the County Judge's budget and the creation of a new line item for Economic Development Programs.Move to approve the recommendation of the Budget Director by Judge Wilson, seconded by
Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0413
Item 10 County Criminal Court #5
Ms. Stewart explained the Budget Impact Statement and the various scenarios to the court Comm. Armey inquired as to the impact of $27,007.
Comm. Jacobs asked if the $27,007 relates to the January 1, 2001 appointment scenario.
Ms. Stewart said yes and added that for a April 1 appointment the impact would be $18, 012, and for a July 1 appointment the impact would be $10,506.
Item 11 Criminal District Attorney
Ms. Stewart referred to the memo from Lee Ann Breading, Assistant District Attorney, stating this department's contribution of $4,000 from the DA Chapter 59 Fund, Unappropriated Contingency, to assist in the down payment of the Document Imaging System, and recommended the court accept this offer.
Move to approve Budget Director's recommendation by Comm. Jacobs, second by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 4-0-0 (Comm. Carter was out of the courtroom)
Court Order #00-0414
Item 2 Revisions to the Recommended Budget
Ms. Stewart corrected the Computer Maintenance line item for Jury/Grand Jury, District Clerk, by an increase of $4,729, which was the amount originally requested by the District Clerk.
Move to approve this correction to the Recommended Budget by Comm. Jacobs, second by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 4-0-0
Court Order #00-0415
Item 12 Human Service Organizations
Ms. Stewart spoke for Dr. Bing Burton who would ask the court to take specific action on this item, so that the agencies could be notified. The Human Service Organization Committee recommended an amount of $738,805 for various service agencies that applied, be adopted by the court as one unit.
Move to approve the recommendation of the committee by Comm. Krueger, second by
Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0416Comm. Armey commended the committee and Dr. Burton for all their hard work in establishing a philosophy that will lead to a consistent formula year after year. The "fee for service" agreements with the human service organizations demonstrates the value that these organizations have to Denton County. He would ask Dr. Burton and the committee to monitor these agreements this coming year so that the fee from Denton County is appropriate to the services returned.
Comm. Jacobs commended Dr. Burton for his leadership and the committee for all their time spent on this difficult task. She sees this committee as being able to improve services and continue the efficiency of this organization.
Item 13 Court Appointed Attorneys
Ms. Stewart informed the court that Comm. Jacobs requested a Budget History Report of the courts for the last three years. Her office prepared a spread sheet including the adopted budget, as well. Her recommended budget asks for $1,148,000, including expenses and $350,000 in revenue.
Comm. Jacobs presented articles from the Dallas Morning News (Tuesday, July 18, 2000, Editorial Section, "Indigent Defense" and Sunday, July 16, 2000, "Defense of indigents criticized in Texas" by Diane Jennings). What is reported in these articles sounds like the discussions heard in this court over court-appointed attorney fees. She quoted from an article about Judge Rehnquist of the United States Supreme Court urging the court adopt higher salaries for court appointed attorneys. The difference being, Ms. Jacobs adds, is that the cost of a court appointed attorney in the Supreme Court is $65/hr., $45/hr for work out of courtroom. Denton County pays up to $100/hr. and, comparable to neighboring counties, more than most other counties pay. This is too much to pay and, she believes, this county is at a point in funding where the court should seriously consider a Public Defender System. Comm. Jacobs encouraged the court to begin the process of changing systems in the new budget year. What kind of legal and fiscal impact will it have to the county? The newspaper articles criticize the indigent system in the State of Texas but, Comm. Jacobs asks, no one has been able to define "indigent" and come up with a formula for consistency in determining who is indigent. An inconclusive definition leads to confusion and expense. Are Denton County judges following the 8-point recommendation that Commissioners Court gave them?
Judge Wilson asked the Commissioner if she would like to make a motion?
Comm. Jacobs replied that this is a topic she would like to have reviewed in-depth. Starting in the next fiscal year, she would like a study done on what this county is paying comparable to other counties, whether or not the judges are following the court's recommendation and the possibility of initiating a public defender system next year.
Judge Wilson commented that the county has a good system, the attorneys who represent people in this county do a good job. He is not sure whether or not they are overpaid. The selection process of court appointed attorneys is good. The Public Defender system might be a costly undertaking but a study does need to begin in the next fiscal year.
Comm. Carter supports Comm. Jacob's concern. This is a huge item in the budget at 1.5 million dollars. He thinks there may be a degree of defense that is being exerted too freely and the court needs to know what criteria the judges are using to determine indigency. A study of this must begin soon.
Judge Wilson pointed out that a Public Defender Office may be just as expensive and this court does not want to see the quality of defense for poor people decrease just to cut cost.
Comm. Jacobs responded that she was not suggesting that quality of defense be shortchanged. Another problem with the present system is the amount of time the county prisoners, even the pre-trial prisoners, are sitting in jail at $55.00/day cost to the county. A Public Defender system would eliminate that costly wait. Also, one Public Defender could address more that one case at a time, creating more efficiency. Comm. Jacobs will be providing the court some examples of how technology is making great inroads into improving the efficiency and cost of this process.
Comm. Armey asked staff what percentage of cases use court appointed representation? There does seem to be a lesser commitment needed for the Public Defender office because it would not be concerned with every case, as is the District Attorney's Office. Comm. Armey asked James Wells, County Auditor, have the revenues and reimbursements been keeping up?
James Wells reminded the court that Denton County was the first county in the state to begin a collection program and other counties have now begun following suit. Percentage-wise we are certainly comparable to other counties. Remember, he said, that this does not include Justice of the Peace Courts because warrants assure their collection. There is always room for improvement.
Comm. Armey asked if this area was growing?
James Wells said absolutely.
Comm. Armey requested that a graph be done to show a rate of growth.
Comm. Jacobs added to Comm. Armey's request to see if a collection agency could work in this area.
Comm. Carter suggested a committee be set-up to look at this very soon and have some implementation within the next budget year, rather than waiting for the next one.
Item 16 County Clerk
Ms. Stewart had a correction to the Record's Preservation line item 22.5310.10.20 - Microfilm Expense - that amount be increased by $233,100 with an additional $181,500 in revenues and reduce the fund balance to $10,000.
Move to approve the Budget Director's recommendation by Comm. Krueger, second by Judge Wilson..
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0417
Item 19 Redistricting Contingency
Judge Wilson asked the court if they wished to keep the $5,000 in this line item.
Comm. Armey referred to his conversation with Don Alexander, Director of Elections, and, keeping in mind that the impact of this action will not be until the next fiscal year, the Director believes that he can find the cost of maps, etc. within his own budget.
Comm. Jacobs suggested that once the redistricting process begins, a consultant should be hired, and so she would like to wait on transferring that $5,000.
RECESS FOR LUNCH
RECONVENE IN FORMAL 1:40 PM
Item 4 Historical Commission
Ms. Stewart introduced Dr. Howard Smith and asked the court to review the latest e-mail from Dr. Georgia Caraway, Director of the Courthouse on the Square Museum.
Dr. Smith, representing the Executive Committee of the Museum, was invited by Dr. Caraway to present and explain a chart he prepared, the Denton County Historical Commission and Organizational Chart, and also, to speak to the need for maintaining two separate budgets for the commission and the museum. The chart reflects the commission's present structure and procedures. Vertical lines on the chart mean lines of authority, horizontal lines indicate staff relationships. There are 13 committees under the commission with the Bayless-Selby House being an ad-hoc committee, when it is completed as a project it will disappear or be restructured as the foundation maintains money to support it. Dr. Smith emphasized the most critical issue is the administration of the Museum; the Commission is made up of strictly volunteers acting legally through an Administrative Assistant and through the Director of the Museum. The Director must retain a direct line to this court and its Budget Office in order to be able to operate the museum without having to go through the Commission volunteers each time the need arises. The Historical Park Complex will someday be more than just the Bayless-Selby House. The Commission envisions several more homes and the kiln being added to this area. The Museum Director would also be over this complex. Dr. Smith expressed the recommendation of the Executive Committee that the court maintain the present structure of two separate budgets, otherwise volunteers could end up being responsible for the transfer of funds. An organization cannot mix employees and volunteers.
Comm. Jacobs thanked Dr. Smith for the clarification.
Item 4 Historical Park Complex
Dr. Caraway asked the court to please support the Bayless-Selby House Museum. To aid the court in doing so, Dr. Caraway informed the court that she had removed the staff position from her original request along with the leased computer and software. All of this can be provided from within the department. Her total revised request is $3,188 for operating supplies with all other funding being provided by the City of Denton'c HOT Funds.
Comm. Jacobs thanked Dr. Caraway.Move to approve the revised request of the Museum Director by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0418Comm. Armey advised the court that with this motion, there is a savings to the budget of $13,572. He commended Dr. Caraway for the work the Museum is doing and invited her to come back with a presentation on the status of the Museum and perhaps, at that point, additional discussion can be had on what more the county will be able to provide.
Comm. Armey requested that the court discuss the Facilities budget regarding the operation of the Selby House. This item will also see a decrease from the recommended budget of about $19,000.
Move approval of the Historical Park Facility decrease of $19,700 by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0419
Item 6 Records Management
Theresa Rogers, Director of Records Management, handed out a copy of a recent filming of a document to demonstrate the need for better equipment in this department. Of the four microfilmers originally purchased in 1991, one has been surplused and one is being used for parts. The remaining two are in poor condition and do not produce clear images. The images do not meet the microfilming standards of the Texas State Library Archives Commission. Problems with these microfilmers are a daily occurrence. Two million documents were filmed by this department last year. New equipment would increase efficiency and work hand-in-hand with the newly approved indexing system the court has adopted. Also, with new equipment, approximately $20,000 would be saved by eliminating the microfilming done by the Sheriff's Office.
Judge Wilson clarified that the $82,748 is for leasing new equipment.
Ms. Rogers added that along with the new equipment, training and education would be mandatory along with attending seminars and subscribing to specialized publications. The $23, 043 for office supplies is necessary for relocating to the lower level of the Denton County Courts Building. Their new location will require new office furniture and kitchen appliances. Ms. Rogers also seeks an increase in her car allowance. She is over the limit now. Concerning the reclassification of her clerks, she asked to the court to bring them up to the level of the county and district clerks. They are a Grade 13 now. She also requested an upgrade for herself to Grade 29, Step 6 as compared to the Human Resource Department recommendation of Grade 25, Step 3. She pointed out to the court that her position is similar to that of a Department Head.
Judge Wilson agreed to all the items except for the leasing price of the equipment at 82,000.
Comm. Jacobs asked Amy Phillips, Director of Human Resources, to respond to the increased pay grade for Ms. Rogers and her clerks.
Ms. Phillips responded that in comparison, Grade 25 is fair as compared to other supervisorial positions. Comm. Jacobs pointed out that Ms. Phillips is requesting a substantial increase in Ms. Rogers grade - from Grade 21, Step 5 to Grade 25, Step 2. The Grade 25 includes these other positions: Captains, Lieutenants, Chief Deputy of the Tax Office, Fire Marshall, Administrative Foreman, etc. Comm. Jacobs then asked Ms. Stewart about the car allowance.
Ms. Stewart agreed with Ms. Rogers that with she is traveling more, needing a raise in this area. She would recommend a reimbursable car allowance of $2,000.
Comm. Jacobs questioned Ms. Stewart on the office furnishings. $8300 was for kitchen appliances.
Ms. Stewart acknowledged that in the new courts building and the Carroll Building, the county supplied the refrigerators, ice machines and microwaves.
Comm. Jacobs asked Ms. Stewart if she had any changes in her original recommendation of $20,000 regarding Office Supplies and $1600 on Training and Education.
Ms. Stewart replied that she would agree to the $1600 but would have to re-look at Office Supplies.
Comm. Jacobs then asked about the $82,000 lease of equipment.
Ms. Stewart said this was a much better option than buying the equipment and she does recommend replacing the present equipment.
Comm. Jacobs commented that the lease is justified but not the job reclassifications. The reimbursable car allowance is justified but office supplies is questionable. Training and Education is also justified.
Comm. Carter asked Ms. Stewart the salary that Ms. Rogers would get at Grade 25, Step 2.
Ms. Stewart answered $40,943.00 with the 8% slide plus a step.
Judge Wilson would agree that this salary is equitable.
Comm. Armey suggested that a change of title might be appropriate for this position - perhaps Manager of Records Management or Records Management Administrator.
Comm. Carter proposed that this position be incorporated into the study Human Resources will be doing on creating parity amongst various positions.
Comm. Jacobs advised the court that this position, with the upgrade, is seeing a 31% increase in salary.
Judge Wilson returned to the Record Management clerks and stated his puzzlement at why they should not be upgraded.
Ms. Phillips explained that the jobs of the county and district clerks are more complex, have higher volume, handle money, encounter more stress, have a variety of tasks to perform, are cross-trained and deal with the public a great deal more than Ms. Roger's clerks.
Item 15 Vacancy Report
Ms. Stewart referred to the Vacant Slot Report in which the highlighted jobs had been vacant more than a year. No positions have been eliminated but 10 positions in the Sheriff's department were left to be funded through attrition. There is no impact to the budget.
Comm. Armey noted that in looking through the over-a-year vacancies, Juvenile Probation is the only department that also appealed the recommended budget. There have been no appeals from Road & Bridge nor from the Sheriff. Comm. Armey suggested that Juvenile Probation might eliminate those two positions and give those salaries to an additional ISP Officer.
Item 20 Volunteer Fire Departments
Chief Jimmie Vann, Administrative Chief of the Mayhill-Cooper Creek V.F.D., advised the court that of the 24 fire departments in Denton County, this is the only one in an unincorporated area. All others have the funding of the city in which they are located. Mayhill-Cooper Creek was named after a road when it began in 1977 as a temporary department. The City of Denton was to incorporate it into their jurisdiction within a year or two of its inception. This did not happen and so, it is unique. Chief Vann's concern is for his fire fighters, that they have a safe environment in which to work and good, safe equipment to work with, so they can service the county adequately. Funding is a problem. Recently, he went door to door in the service area, requesting information from the approximately 400 residents and asking for any monetary help. So far, he has received less than $200. He and his department have tried bake sales, car washes, have applied for grants, and looked for every opportunity there is, including asking the county for additional money.
Judge Wilson affirmed that this department is asking for $25,000 on the contract plus the money given on the formula worked out for all fire departments within the county. Eventually, the City of Denton will take over this fire district. The city is helping to finance a new fire truck.
Chief Vann clarified that no, the City of Denton will not be assisting with the purchase of a new fire truck. He and his department are taking on the full responsibility because the cost of a new truck equals the cost of repairs to the old one. This new fire truck is basic, with no frills.
Comm. Krueger commented that last year this department had to shut the doors until the county could give them some support. The Fire Chiefs' Association endorses and recognizes that this department has no other major support than that of the county. He supports the funding of $25,000.
Judge Wilson added his support to this funding, also.
Comm. Armey noted that this funding as now taking funding away from any other fire departments. Most importantly, the Fire Chief's Association must lend their support to this agreement between Mayhill and the county.
Chief Vann answered that this item is on the Fire Chief's agenda for their upcoming meeting.
Comm. Jacobs questioned the $7,500 additional to the $25,000.
Marshall Jody Gonzalez clarified that the $7,500 is for the subscription to the Fire Chief's Association for the Fire Marshall. This is an annual fee and maintains the county's membership.
Comm. Carter commended Chief Vann for his dedication and his efforts in helping other fire departments.
Item 17 Flower Mound Government Center
Comm. Armey requested that item this be postponed until he can get a better handle on the financing.
Judge Wilson urged the commissioner to do all he can because this area of 50,000 people is in need of county services.
Comm. Armey believes a ballpark figure of $60,000 will cover this proposal.
Item 18 Cellular Phones
Comm. Armey outlined his reasons for the court's need to look at this area for saving some money. The county needs a policy stating the usage parameters by employees of cell phones except, of course, for some departments like Information Services and the Sheriff's Department. A distinction is required between those phones that are necessary for the position or where it is just a convenience. It is his understanding that Dallas and Tarrant counties pay for only a few cell phones. Comm. Armey encourages the court to take a narrow view for providing cell phones: it is difficult to manage cell phone usage on issues personal, political and job related. Personally, he does not have a county cell phone for several reasons: he does not have to worry to whom he is talking or for how long. Also, the records are not public information. The county needs to tighten the reins on what it will pay for.
Comm. Jacobs pointed out the subjectivity of this area because even with a written policy, the difference between convenience and requirement is a very fine line. She uses her cell phone constantly and prudently. Would this affect the efficiency of a position?
Comm. Armey agreed to the subjectivity factor. His view, though, is that elected officials can pay for their own cell phone. He is not saying that that they should not have one but the county need not pay for it.
This will be a preference of the court members as to what they believe is a personal or a county responsibility.
Comm. Krueger affirmed that he was not giving up his cell phone.
Item 1 Revised Pay Scale
Ms. Stewart had some corrections for the court to take action on because the 8% slide was not taken into account: Office Administrator for the Operations Office.
Ms Phillips stated Human Resources is now recommending a Grade 22, Step 5.
Ms. Stewart noted a change in the budget impact to $2,959.Move to approve the Human Resources' recommendation on the reclassification of Office Administrator for Operations that it be a Grade 22, Step 5 by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0420Ms. Stewart said the next is an administrative assistant position in Juvenile Detention with the budget impact changing from $4,221 to $2,532. The change is Grade 14, Step 1 to Grade 16, Step 1.
Move to approve the Human Resource's recommendation by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0421Ms. Stewart and Human Resources recommended that the reclassification for Juvenile Detention Shift Leaders be lowered from a Grade 21 Step 1, to a Grade 19, Step 1 with the budget savings being $22,180.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0422Ms. Stewart asked the court to consider the Network Administrator position for Information Services. It is in the budget at a Grade 23 Step 3 but is recommended for a Grade 24 Step 7 with a budget impact of $7,602. Included with this motion is a reduction of the HW Maintenance in the amount of $7,602.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0423Ms. Stewart directed the court's attention to a Probate Investigator for Probate Court that was classified at a Grade 23, Step 5 but Human Resources reclassified this position to Grade 24, Step 5 with an impact of $2,959.
Move to approve recommendation by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0424
Item 1 Fixed Car Allowances
Move to approve that the Director of Administration for the County Judge's Office be given a $1200 car allowance by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0425Comm. Armey picked out two positions inconsistent for receiving the fixed car allowance: one is an Assistant Director in a department that received both a significant reclassification plus the 8% slide and now might be an opportunity to make a correction to the car allowance. He moved to eliminate the $900 fixed-car allowance for the Assistant Director of Purchasing.
Comm. Jacobs would like to hear from the Director of Purchasing before taking any action on this. She is not present at the moment.
Judge Wilson seconded the motion for discussion.
Comm. Armey noted that no other Assistant Director has a car allowance.
Comm. Jacobs pointed out that the County Clerk's assistant has a car allowance.
Comm. Armey explained that he is looking at Commissioners Court department heads and this position is already realizing an $18,000 salary increase. This is a good chance to absorb a cost where it will not be a great impact to this position.
Comm. Carter also requested information from the Purchasing Department before a vote is taken. Does this employee drive a lot?
Comm. Armey withdrew his motion and would like to hear from the Purchasing Director.
Item 1 Reclassifications
Comm. Carter asked the court to return to this item and discuss the Tax Assessor's clerks. This is not one of the recommended reclassifications?
Ms. Phillips affirmed that and also that her records did not show that the majority of this department's employees were leaving for higher paying jobs. With the 8% slide the county has provided, she believes the salary of the clerks is equal to the original request of the Tax Assessor-Collector.
Comm. Carter related that in his conversations with Ms. Horn, she believes the raise will help but her clerks will still fall behind the other clerks. These positions need to be reviewed because they are high profile in dealing with the public.
Item 1 Car Allowances
Comm. Armey returned to the other position that may not need a car allowance - a Justice of the Peace employee. Could this be eliminated or what is the justification for this, since this JP is located in the City of Denton.
Move to increase the fixed-car allowance for the Director of County Planning from $2700 to $3600 per year by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 4-0-0 (Jacobs absent)
Court Order #00-0426
Item 1 Reclassifications
Comm. Armey stated he would not be supporting any reclasses that were not recommended by Human Resources.
Move to approve that the Chief Administrative Assistant in Family Violence, as
recommended by Lee Ann Breading and Human Resources, be reclassified from Grade 17 Step 5 to Grade 18 Step 5 with a budget impact of $1,482 and reduction of contract labor by $1,482 for a $0 budget impact by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0427Comm. Carter moved to approve reclassifying the clerks in the Tax Assessors/Collectors Office.
Judge Wilson seconded by motion.
Comm Jacobs asked the court to look at the survey in which these clerks are paid close to average, so the problem here may not be the pay. The majority of the reasons why people left this employment is not money. She thinks that if the salary study were approved, the court would have a better idea of how to address this problem but she does not think throwing money at it will alleviate anything. She would not support this motion.
Comm. Armey agreed with the commissioner, adding that establishing the pay grade for these employees with no justification other than what is perceived as a problem, is wrong. By granting 12% raises and a commitment to look at these positions within the system to make sure they are graded appropriately, is enough action right now. Ms. Phillips has studied this and cannot recommend a reclass. By taking action now, the court would be creating even bigger problems within other departments.
Comm. Carter argues that exit interviews are not good indicators because most of these are transfers within the county.
Comm. Armey has asked Ms. Horn to re-look at these job descriptions.
Ms. Phillips confirmed that these job descriptions were looked at about a year ago but found nothing to justify reclassifications, even after the revisions made by Ms. Horn. 75% have left for a variety of reasons, 25% to go to other employers. Department-wide turnover exceeds 48% and the job title in question is 40%. While that is high, it is lower than department-wide.
Judge Wilson took the vote and the motion failed with only Judge Wilson and Comm. Carter voting aye.
He expressed his hope that next year some of these core challenges can be addressed.
Comm. Carter added that percentage-wise, the higher paid fare better than the lower paid when across the board raises are granted.
Judge Wilson feels these employees need to be compensated for the high stress level of dealing with the public.
Comm. Krueger moved that the court clerk for Justice of Peace Precinct 1 be reclassified to Office Manager.
Judge Wilson asked for a second, the motion failed for lack of a second.
Item 1 New Hires
Comm. Jacobs moved that all Category 1 new hires be approved.
Comm. Carter seconded.
Comm. Armey requested the court to approve new hires as the last item in the budget.
Comm. Jacobs and Comm. Carter removed their motion.
Item 1 Salary Study
Comm. Jacobs appealed to the court that across-the-board raises are not addressing the internal equity problem and this study is the only way to do that. This study will cost about $57,000.
Move to approve salary study be included in next year's budget in the amount of $57,000 by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0428Move to approve the Comparative Data Subscription Service for $180.00 to supplement and aid the departments in the salary study approved by Court Order #00-0428 by Comm. Jacobs, second by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0429
Item 21 County Clerk
Ms. Stewart corrected the budget to show an increase of $7500 in the Computer Service Expense for Birth and Death Records as the City of Denton transferred their activity in this area to the County Clerk's Office.
Move to approve by Comm. Jacobs, second by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0430
Item 21 Tax Assessor/Collector
Move to approve Ms. Horn's request for a change from a mini-van to a station wagon with a zero impact to the budget by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0431Comm. Krueger reported to the court that the Vehicle Committee recommended a mini-van because the station wagon was more expensive.
Comm. Jacobs emphasized that the court is voting on a no-impact budget item and if there is no additional money in her line item for a vehicle then Ms. Horn will have to purchase one that falls within that budget area.
Comm. Armey noted that the Computer Maintenance (Net Data) lease of three computers has a related reduction under the County-wide Computer System. The Tax Assessor/Collector's Office computers are not net-worked, they do not even have e-mail.Move to approve the lease of three computers for the Tax Assessor/Collector's Office with a budgetary impact originally of $5400, reduce computer leasing and software by $3191 for a total impact of $2209, by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0432Comm. Carter moved to approve the additional funds of $3,000 for tax statements.
Judge Wilson seconded.
Ms. Stewart explained that this item has been increasing but the $3,000 is an estimate, at best.
Comm. Armey would trust the budget office's termination on this.
Judge Wilson pointed out this is a mandatory item.
Comm. Jacobs added that if it is mandatory and this line item runs out of money, it could be taken from Emergency Appropriations.
Judge Wilson took the vote, motion fails with the Judge and Comm. Carter supporting it.
Comm. Jacobs reminded the court that it asked Ms. Horn to look at increasing her costs to other agencies, making sure her office is collecting the full amount.
Item 21 Justice of the Peace, Precinct One
Move to approve $2400 for the filing supplies for the system in Justice of the Peace, Precinct One's Office by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 4-1-0 (Armey nay)
Court Order #00-0433
Item 7 Constable, Precinct Two
Move to approve an increase of $1,550 in Operating Supplies by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 4-1-0 (Armey nay)
Court Order #00-0434Move to approve a new line item in the amount of $6,640, as recommended by the Budget Director, for Equipment (Scales) Maintenance, License & Weights budget, by Comm.
Carter, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0435Move to approve $900 for radio repairs by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 3-2-0 (Armey & Jacobs nay)
Court Order #00-0436Move to approve an increase in printed material (ticket books) in the amount of $500 by Comm. Carter, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 4-1-0 (Armey nay)
Court Order #00-0437
Item 21 Juvenile Probation
Move to approve the recommended upgrade of a vehicle as requested by the Juvenile
Probation Department by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0438Comm. Krueger asked Ms. Stewart to clarify that their other request is for an increase in the fixed-car allowance for Ms. Fox, Mr. Metcalf and Mr. Merrick to $1800 each and what are they receiving now.
Ms. Stewart replied that they are on reimbursable now.
Comm. Krueger understood their request in that they do a lot of on-site visits to schools everyday and everywhere in the county. If needed, they do deserve the increase but he needs something to substantiate their request.
Item Revenues/General Funds
Move to approve the County Auditor's recommendation to increase Records Management Copy Fees in the amount of a $14,000 in General Fund by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0439
Item Redistricting Contingency
Move to approve $5,000 by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0440
Item Records Management
Move to approve Budget Director's recommendation that the Director of Record's
Management car allowance be increased from the $406 to $2,000 reimbursable by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0441Move to approve the Training & Education line item to the $1600 level (an increase) as
suggested by the Budget Director by Comm. Jacobs, second by Judge Wilson.
Motion Carried 4-1-0 (Armey nay)
Court Order #00-0442Move to approve the reclass of three data entry clerks by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Fails 2-3-0 (Armey, Jacobs & Carter nay)
Item Elections Administration
Move to approve the increase in Elections Revenues of $10,000 by Comm. Armey, second by Comm. Jacobs.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0443
Item County Court at Law #5
Move to approve the appointment of the judge effective January 1, 2001, for an impact of $27,007 by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Krueger, amended to read that the judge will agree, in writing, to the operational scenario of this court until October 1, 2001 by Comm.
Armey.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0444
Item Volunteer Fire Department
Move to approve $25,000 for the Mayhill-Cooper Creek Volunteer Fire Department by Judge Wilson, second by Comm. Krueger, amended to include this in the formula as an annualpayment until this fire district will be taken over by surrounding cities. Also approved was $7,500 for dues to the Fire Chief's Association.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0445Comm. Armey recapped the remaining requests: 2 requests on car allowance, Flower Mound Government Center. Is there anything else?
Comm. Jacobs added the leasing of equipment in Records Management for $82,000 and funding for the legislative packet. She requested the court to earmark $50,000 specifically for Ryder Scott, a consultant. Also, the court must look at Child Protective Services and the District Courts.
Item New Hires
Move to approve Category One of the New Hires list by the Budget Director including
Assistant Chief Deputy/Criminal Courts, Assistant Chief Deputy/Civil/Probate/MH, Deputy Clerk/Carrollton/Tax Assessor/Collector, Inventory/Parts Specialist/County Operations, ISP Officer/Juvenile Probation and RN in Public Health with an impact of $114,650 by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Krueger.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0446Move to approve all items under Categories 2 & 3, except for the ASAP Officers, including all associated revenues and fines by Comm. Krueger, second by Comm. Armey. Category 2 positions were approved as part-time employees @ 25 hours per week.
Motion Carried 5-0-0
Court Order #00-0447Comm. Armey warned everyone that additional cuts still have to made so that any action up to this point can be changed by the court as needed.
Comm. Carter clarified that the ASAP Officer for Constable, Precinct Four, stays on the active list due to the action taken earlier today. He will confer with Northwest I.S.D. and come back to the court with a recommendation.
ITEM 18 ADJOURNMENT
Move to adjourn by Comm. Jacobs, second by Comm. Carter.
Motion Carried 5-0-0This set of minutes prepared by deputy clerk Kathleen Bransford and reviewed by County Clerk Cynthia Mitchell.