COUNTY SERVICES

Approved 5/3/05

COUNTY SERVICES

April 19, 2005

Minutes

Members Present: Victor Celentino, Dale Copedge, Debbie DeLeon, Andy Schor, Mike Severino, Don Vickers and Board Chairperson Mark Grebner

Members Absent: None

Others Present: Harold Hailey, Jerry Ambrose, Jared Cypher, Robert VanKirk, Gene Wriggelsworth, Donna Rummel, Bob Smith, Dean Sienko, Sue Pigg and others

The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Celentino at 7:05 p.m. in the Personnel Conference Room of the Human Services Building, 5303 S. Cedar, Lansing.

Approval of the April 5, 2005 Minutes

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. DELEON, TO APPROVE THE APRIL 5 MINUTES AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Absent: Comm. Schor

(Comm. Schor arrived at 7:06 p.m.)

Additions to the Agenda

2. Amended Report

6c. Additional Information

6d. Additional Information

Limited Public Comment: None

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SCHOR, TO APPROVE A CONSENT AGENDA FOR THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

3. Health Department

a. Resolution to Authorize Adjustments to the Budget and Staffing for the Office for Young Children

b. Resolution to Reorganize Work in the Bureau of Environmental Health

c. Resolution to Create a Three-Quarter Time Health Plan Assistant Position

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SCHOR, TO APPROVE THE ITEMS ON THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

1. Youth Commission – Interview

The Committee interviewed Brian Yu for a vacant position on the Ingham County Youth Commission.

MOVED BY COMM. DELEON, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO RECOMMEND THE APPOINTMENT OF BRIAN YU TO THE INGHAM COUNTY YOUTH COMMISSION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

2. Presentation – Women’s Commission – Revised 2004 Annual Report

Ms. Brimley, former Chairperson of the Women’s Commission, reviewed the 2004 Annual Report. The Commission’s budget contained funds which would be lost if they were not allocated. After the Commission conducted some research, it has recommended the additional funds ($3,000) be allocated to Ballentine Stepping Stones in the amount of $2,000; and to Reaching for Success (Girl Scouts of Michigan) in the amount of $1,000. Research into this allocation involved reviewing the County’s Community Agency funding process.

Ms. Brimley stated the Women’s Commission Report acknowledges the Board Coordinator, Becky Bennett and Board Secretary, Shelly McReynolds for their assistance with the Commission.

Comm. Schor requested additional information regarding the Commission’s decision to allocate funds to the two agencies above. Ms. Brimley stated the Commission worked with former Comm. Lynch in its review of the County’s Community Agencies. The two agencies selected did not receive 2005 Community Agency funding from the County. Comm. Schor discouraged the Commission from doing this again. However, he was glad to know the Commission did consult the County’s Community Agency process before making its decision.

Comm. DeLeon thanked Ms. Brimley for Chairing the Women’s Commission and for bringing life back into the organization.

4. Economic Development Corporation

a. Resolution Conditionally Approving the Establishment of a Joint Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) Tax Increment Financing Area by the City of East Lansing and the City of Lansing, to be known as the Lansing Regional Smartzone

MOVED BY COMM. DELEON, SUPPORTED BY COMM. VICKERS, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION CONDITIONALLY APPROVING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A JOINT LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY (LDFA) TAX INCREMENT FINANCING AREA BY THE CITY OF EAST LANSING AND THE CITY OF LANSING, TO BE KNOWN AS THE LANSING REGIONAL SMARTZONE.

Comm. Schor proposed amending the Resolution as follows:

STRIKE: FIRST THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED.

ADD:

WHEREAS, the creation of the Authority requires the approval by resolution of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners; and

WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners will not approve the creation of the Authority except upon the conditions that (a) the Authority is designated by the MEDC as a “Certified Technology Park,” and (b) that the Authority shall not capture any Ingham County ad valorem property taxes except pursuant to a tax sharing agreement complying with Ingham County’s revised policy on tax sharing agreements as set forth in Resolution #05----, adopted April 12, 2005.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners approves the establishment of the Local Development Finance Authority of the Cities of Lansing and East Lansing for the purpose of operating within the Lansing Regional Smartzone, but only on the following conditions: (1) the MEDC has designated the Authority District as a Certified Technology Park under Public Act 281 of 1986, as amended, and (2) the Authority shall not capture any Ingham County ad valorem property taxes except pursuant to a tax sharing agreement complying with Ingham County’s revised policy on tax sharing agreements as set forth in Resolution #05- ---.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any attempt by the Authority to capture Ingham County ad valorem property taxes other than by way of a tax sharing agreement complying with Ingham County’s revised policy on tax sharing agreements as set forth in Resolution #05- ---, adopted April 12, 2005.

Comm. Schor informed the Committee that the above language was drafted by the County Attorney. His proposed amendment is consistent with other County tax sharing arrangements.

Ms. Pigg, EDC – Economic Development Agent, stated State law does not allow the County to opt out of any increment tax capture if the State designates the LDFA as a Certified Technology Business Park (a “Smartzone”). The County’s policy regarding tax sharing agreements would not apply. Both cities are working closely with the State to get that designation this spring/summer. A pre-condition of the State certification is the LDFA’s establishment. The Ingham EDC Board recommends approval of the LDFA on the condition that it gets the State’s designation as a Certified Technology Business Park.

Comm. Schor stated the tax capture should be done in the same manner as other tax sharing agreements.

MOVED BY COMM. SCHOR, SUPPORTED BY COMM. VICKERS, TO AMEND THE RESOLUTION AS SPECIFIED ABOVE.

The Committee discussed the proposed amendment. Mr. Ambrose stated this issue is different from the DDA concept. Comm. Severino expressed his appreciation for Comm. Schor’s intentions. However, he stated he is confident that those involved in this matter will be flexible enough to accomplish the goals of the EDC. The Smartzone proposal does not abuse the County’s policy.

Comm. DeLeon stated she agrees with Comm. Severino. The proposed amendment is unnecessary. It would just be another layer which would hinder progress. Comm. Schor explained that his concern does not involve a matter of trust. The concern is this proposal involves a capture of the County’s taxes. A tax sharing agreement should be in place. The County should be in control of where its money is spent. His proposed amendments would lay out the parameters.

Comm. Vickers explained that he supported Comm. Schor’s motion in order to facilitate further discussion. He does not support the proposed amendment as it puts road blocks up in front of people who are trying to do something good for the community.

MOTION TO AMEND FAILED with Comm. Schor voting YES.

MAIN MOTION CARRIED with Comm. Schor voting NO.

b. Resolution to Exempt County Property Tax Revenues from Capture in the Expanded East Lansing Downtown Development Authority District

Mr. Ambrose stated the date of the Public Hearing in the Resolution should be May 17, 2005.

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. DELEON, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION TO EXEMPT COUNTY PROPERTY TAX REVENUES FROM CAPTURE IN THE EXPANDED East Lansing DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY DISTRICT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

5. Human Resources Department – Request for Leave Without Pay

Mr. Wriggelsworth stated he strongly urges the Committee to deny the Request for Leave Without Pay. The Request hinders the operations of the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office. Comm. Schor asked as to the incentive for asking for additional leave time. Mr. Wriggelsworth stated there is no incentive. Approving the Request would cripple the Office. Contract language indicates an employee may request “up to 90days.” The employee in this matter has been off for 60 days.

Mr. Hailey stated the employee has been off work since September 2004. The employee applied for Worker’s Compensation which was not supported by the County’s Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department supports Mr. Wriggelsworth’s position in this matter. Mr. Hailey further explained the Request for Leave process. He then stated the employee has exhausted her time under the Family Leave Act.

Comm. Severino asked how this matter came before this Committee. Mr. Hailey explained the employee emailed her request to have this item placed on the agenda. Her union representative is aware that this item is before the Committee this evening. However, he/she is not present. Mr. Wriggelsworth also stated the employee’s attorney was aware of tonight’s meeting and also did not appear.

Comm. Copedge asked if there was medical documentation which would support the employee’s Request for additional time off. Mr. Hailey stated there is no such medical documentation. Mr. Smith, SPHR, Benefits and Insurance Administrator, explained the employee’s physician has not indicated the employee cannot return to work.

Board Chairperson Grebner explained the Committee’s general policy is to approve such requests if they are supported by department heads. The Committee held a brief discussion regarding any effect this Committee’s decision would have on the employee’s Worker’s Compensation case.

In response to Comm. DeLeon, Mr. Hailey stated this is not a grievable issue. Comm. DeLeon stated this is troubling because this Committee is dealing with an employee’s life and livelihood. She then stated she would deny the request since Mr. Wriggelsworth recommends denial; and the fact that the employee’s union representative and attorney are not present to represent her interests.

MOVED BY COMM. DELEON, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO DENY THE REQUEST FOR LEAVE WITHOUT PAY. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

6. Controller’s Office

a. Discussion of 2006 Budget Guidelines

Mr. Ambrose stated no action is being requested of the liaison Committees this round. Any suggestions as to drafting any proposed changes to the draft are requested. Mr. Ambrose then reviewed two long-term priorities of this Committee. The priority of Expanding Recreational Opportunities involves a ten-year plan which will enable the connection of the County’s major parks by means of non-motorized pathways no later than 2016. The second priority involves Promoting Environmental Protection. The specific enhancement will consider specific proposals which enhance this objective, such as supporting the activities of the Agricultural Preservation Board, developing a wetlands ordinance, and implementing recommendations of the Tri-County Growth Study.

Mr. Ambrose reviewed the financial aspects of each of the priorities. Comm. Schor expressed his concern that the City of Lansing may not put any money toward the park trails. Mr. Ambrose explained the City is in the middle of their budget process. County and City staff have had discussions regarding the connection of the parks via trails. The Hawk Island and River Trail connections funds are still in tact. We should have a better idea of the City’s plans by August 2005.

Comm. Vickers informed the Committee of Comm. Schafer’s concerns regarding alternative funding sources for law enforcement. Mr. Ambrose stated this issue is being addressed.

Mr. Ambrose stated a resolution will be submitted to this Committee during the next round which will recommend this Committee’s 2006 priorities. Comm. DeLeon stated language in the draft resolution should be consistent regarding recreational opportunities. Mr. Ambrose stated he would make sure the language is consistent throughout the document. Comm. DeLeon also suggested the first BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED paragraph should indicate “. . . .proposals which only enhance County services in Meeting Basic Needs.” Chairperson Celentino stated the language will be changed to reflect Comm. DeLeon’s suggestion.

b. Discussion of 2006 Update of County Fees

Mr. Ambrose stated the proposed fees have been reviewed by the other liaison committees. He explained that changes to the Drain Office fees are clarified in footnotes. Mr. Ambrose then explained the County reviews the fees on an annual basis, and incremental changes are made in order to avoid large one-time increases.

Comm. Vickers expressed his appreciation to staff for the information he has received regarding the fee process.

c. Resolution Approving the Annexation Petition from the Village of Webberville

This item was pulled from tonight’s agenda.

d. Resolution Authorizing a Contract to Provide Benefit Management Service for Employees and Retirees of Ingham County

Mr. Ambrose stated the Health Coalition issued a Request for Proposals in February 2005 regarding proscription drug benefits. Nine responses were received. The Coalition reviewed the responses and has recommended 4D Pharmacy Management Systems, Inc. (4D) for an 18 month period beginning July 1, 2005 to provide Pharmacy Benefit Management Services to eligible employees and retirees of Ingham County.

4D offers services which will meet members’ needs and respond to concerns that have recently arisen such as allowing 90-day prescription fills on most maintenance medications at retail pharmacies and even the option of retail for some specialty pharmacy items. The anticipated savings from this arrangement is approximately $400,000, or 10% of current costs.

Comm. DeLeon stated this is an excellent proposal.

MOVED BY COMM. DELEON, SUPPORTED BY COMM. SEVERINO, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT TO PROVIDE BENEFIT MANAGEMENT SERVICE FOR EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES OF INGHAM COUNTY.

In response to Comm. Severino, Mr. Smith explained that three-month refills are currently only available by mail. The new proposal will allow three-month refills at local pharmacies. Employees’ options will be increased. Comm. Schor stated it is great that employees can use their local pharmacies again. Chairperson Grebner stated he’s glad this arrangement will work for the employees and retirees.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

e. Resolution Authorizing the Emergency Purchase of a Domestic Hot Water Boiler at the Ingham County Correctional Facility

Comm. DeLeon asked if the funds to be used for this purchase would be taken from another project. Mr. Ambrose explained that they would not be taken from another project.

MOVED BY COMM. SEVERINO, SUPPORTED BY COMM. DELEON, TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EMERGENCY PURCHASE OF A DOMESTIC HOT WATER BOILER AT THE INGHAM COUNTY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

7 Board Referrals

a. Letter and Resolution from the Capital Region Airport Authority Regarding Its Mill Levy Certification

b. Letter with Attachments from Win Stebbins Regarding the Widening of Okemos Road

The Board Referrals were received and placed on file.

Announcements: None

Public Comment: None

The meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Debra Neff