1986.01.28_TC_Minutes_WorkshopTOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH, FLORIDA
Minutes of Meeting of Town Commission
WORKSHOP MEETING
Tuesday, Januar~~ 28, 1986 1:3~ P.M.
A Workshop Meeting of the Town Commission was called to order by Mayor
Edward J. Sullivan at Town Hall in the Town Commission Chambers. Also
present were Vice Mayor Mary Louise G. Blosser and Commissioners John
J. Basso, William A. Grier and Betty Jean Stewart.
Also present were Town Attorney Thomas E. Sliney; Town Manager Hugh D.
Williams; Town Clerk Mary Ann Mariano and members of the general
public.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of the victims aboard the
Space Shuttle Challenger.
85.1 Public Comments and Requests:
None
__ __~
At this time, Item 85.33 - Discussion re Water Treatment Plant, was l;~
taken up. Mr. Robert J. Moresi and Mr. Gerhardt M. Witt, representa-
tives of Camp Dresser and McKee (the Town's engineers) addressed the ~~
. .Town Commission, submitting a preliminary report regarding the pumpin~ /-
capacities of the Town's wellfields. Mr. Moresi noted that this study
had commenced in the Spring of 1985, as a result of the Water Manage-
ment District's requirement of the installation of a chloride monitor
well, and the Town's concern regarding the existing capacity of its
wellfields. Mr. Witt reviewed a "Well Field Evaluation Status Report"
which was distributed to the Town Commission, incorporating statistics
on maximum day pumpages, chloride concentration, pumpage volume and
rainfall. This report is attached to these Minutes and made a part
hereof. It is the opinion of CDM that in the event Well No. 6 is
inoperable for any reason, the Town will not be able to provide the
amount of water needed without depleting storage facilities. With
regard to using Boca Raton or Delray Beach as a back up in such a
situation, it was pointed out that this should only be done in severe
emergency situations due to the incompatibility of the systems. It was
pointed out that-both Boca Raton and Delray Beach have ammonia based
systems, while Highland Beach is utilizing a chloride system.
Also discussed was a "wedge" of ground which indicates the westward
movement of salt water intrusion, which will necessitate an increase
in chloride concentration in the Town's water. Mr. Witt showed the
correlation of chloride concentration and pumpages. It was noted that
the statistics being used were with regard to the eastern wellfield.
Mr. Witt noted that thier study indicates that if the eastern well-
field's use is continued for a source of water supply, and due to the
movement of the "wedge", no relief from the chloride concentration
• would be possible.
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 2 of 7
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Mr. Witt stated that the statistics on "firm capacity" were based on
the Town's largest wellfield being out of order. Mr. Witt stated that
the wells should be rehabilitated inasmuch as data compiled indicated
a decrease in capacity, or the Town should move toward the replacement
of the wells now in service. Mr. Witt stated that even the rehabili-
tation of the existing wells may not alleviate the problem.
Phase II of this project which is the proposal of locating areas for
new wellfields is now under study. Mr. Witt noted that a "computer
model" may be feasible for this purpose. Proposals for Phase II will
be submitted by CDM for consideration by the Town.
It was noted by both Mr. Moresi and Mr. Witt that the final report on
Phase I of this project would be ready in approximately 3-4 weeks, at
which time the Town Commission will again address this issue. A propo-
sal for the work included in Phase II of the project will also be
submitted at that time.
Dr. Weiss, as well as members of the Town Commission questioned Mr.
Moresi and Mr. Witt as to organisms in the water and possible treat-
ment for same. Mr. Witt noted that this matter was not in their
purview and would have Mr. Ameno of CDM, who was more familiar with
• these matters, attend the meeting at which the final report would be
submitted to address the subject.
85.2
Boards and Committees:
A revised memorandum dated January 27, 1986 by the Vice Mayor
regarding a review of the proposed amendment to the policy of filling
board vacancies was deferred until the Regular Meeting.
It was noted that the Police Advisory Board had recommended the
appointment of Charles Buccario to fill the Alternate vacancy on that
board.
85.3 Proposed Ordinances and Resolutions:
Discussion took place regarding a Model Coastal Construction Code
which the state has mandated that municipalities adopt prior to March
1, 1986. Attorney Sliney will redraft the proposed ordinance in form
for first reading at the February 4, 1986 Regular Meeting. The Town
Manager will direct Bruce Sutherland, Building Official, to review and
comment in writing on the proposed ordinance prior to the Regular
Meeting.
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 3 of 7
85.31 Discussion re provision of underground cables through Town:
The Town Manager's memorandum dated January 2, 1986 regarding the
approximate cost of installing underground electric service was dis-
cussed. Due to the substantial cost involved, it was the consensus of
the Town Commission that this project would not be feasible at this
time, however, might be re-addressed in the future.
85.35 Discussion re input to Legislative Delegation re method of ~~
assessment for fire/rescue services:
It was noted that a hearing was being held on January 29, 1986 by the
Legislative Delegation in Boca Raton to gain input into the upcoming
Legistative session. Mr. Williams noted that he and the Mayor would be
attending and making a statement opposing the present method of ~`<~.~
assessing fire/rescue service costs. Mr. Williams stated that he would
prepare a written statement in the morning for presentation to the
Legislative Delegation. This statement will also urge the Legislative
Delegation to continue state funding although federal funding through
the demise of the federal revenue funding program may be cut, urging
cuts in the state budget rather than increasing taxes to municipali-
ties. The Mayor invited all Town Commissioners to attend this
• hearing. ____
REPORTS - TOWN COMMISSION:
Mayor Edward J. Sullivan -
Mayor Sullivan noted a letter received from a private attorney
requesting information regarding municipal liens which needed no
action. Mayor Sullivan noted that services regarding the rendering
of certifications to realtors, etc., without charge, should be
addressed with a view toward compensation for these items. This
matter will be further discussed under the Town Manager's report.
Vice Mayor Mary Louise G. Blosser -
Vice Mayor Blosser congratulated Commissioner Grier on his recent
memorandum regarding the 3.5% salary adjustment.
Vice Mayor Blosser noted that she had seen a portion of a Mayor's
Conference on cable television dealing with liability insurance for
municipalities and requested the matter be looked into for possible
documentation available.
Vice Mayor Blosser also noted a recent memorandum from the Code
Enforcment Board requesting a Resolution be adopted honoring Mr.
Chirrona for past service to that Board. Mayor Sullivan noted that an
appropriate letter would be written. It was also noted that formal
Resolutions had not been adopted for board members in the past. Vice
Mayor Blosser noted that the matter of Certificates of Appreciation be
re-addressed at the Workshop Meeting in February.
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 4 of 7
Vice Mayor Blosser noted a recent newspaper article regarding "radon"
content in drinking water and the DER's availability of "test kits"
for residential useage. This article will be placed on the clipboard
for review.
Commissioner John J. Basso
Commissioner Basso noted that his report would be incorporated in the
discussion regarding beach safety under the Town Attorney's report.
Commissioner William A. Grier -
Commissioner Grier noted that his report would be incorporated in the
discussion of the 3.5~ salary adjustment to be taken up under the Town
Manager's report.
Commissioner Betty Jean Stewart -
Commissioner Stewart submitted a drawing which proposed a possible
solution to the water retention problem around Town Hall which will be '!
considered by the Town Commission. Mr. Williams is also in the pro-
cess of obtaining a study on the grading of the Town Hall property to
aid in the alleviation of this problem. Mr. Williams also noted that
he had received a quotation for the installation of gutters on the
south building which will also aid in the alleviation of the problem.
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Commissioner Grier also noted problems with the roof leaking in the
administrative building at Town Hall. Mr. Williams noted that he was
in the process of obtaining proposals for the complete re-roofing of
the building (both in-kind roofing and an upgraded insulated
raofing) and would submit a report on this matter at an early date.
It was further noted that a Capital Improvement Fund had been set up
in this year's budget to handle such cost.
REPORTS - TOWN ATTORNEY
Attorney Sliney submitted a proposed ordinance requiring property
owners to post signs warning of hazardous conditions. Attorney Sliney
noted that the Town could use its police power to enforce such an
ordinance. Questions arose as to which properties should be
involved,i.e., all including single family etc. Also, a question
arose as to whether or not the Town would procure the signs for the
property owners, as well as whether or not each sign would require CAB
approval. It was noted that the CAB had earlier made several
recommendations regarding the signs, should same be required. It was
• the consensus of the Town Commission that single family residences
should not be included, however, properties consisting of more than a
certain number of units (which will be studied and determined prior to
adopting said ordinance) should be required to post such signs, so as
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 5 of 7
not to have signs all along the beach. This proposed ordinance re-
written to exclude single family residences will be addressed at the
February 4, 1986 Regular Meeting. Chief Cecere noted that he had only
recalled two instances in his many years with the Town and did not see
the necessity of any action on this.
Attorney Sliney also noted an updated opinion regarding beach safety
in general, stating .that he felt the Town's liability would not be
jepoardized by the adoption of such an ordinance, due to the immunity
of municipalities from lawsuits arising from matters relating to
planning.
With regard to a review of the Clarification of Settlement Stipulation
between the Town and Teron International, Inc. (Royal Highlands) it
was noted that Attorney Sliney and Attorney Moss (representing Royal ~~~
Highlands) had not completed the most recent draft for review by the
Town Commission. A Special Meeting was tentatively set for Friday, ~'~`
January 31, 1986 at 1:30 a.m., pending the Town Commission's receipt;%/'
of the draft by January 29, 1986. --~
REPORTS - TOWN MANAGER:
The first matter taken up under the Town Manager's report dealt with
the 3.5~ salary adjustment adopted with the 1985/86 F/Y budget. It was
noted that the Financial Advisory Board had recommended that the Town
consider such increase as of the closest payroll date to January 1, v~
1986. Commissioner Grier noted that at the time the increase was ~'
adopted, it was in fact referred to by the Town Commission as a cost
of living increase and should be treated as such. It was the general ~;-~~~,~
consensus that for the 1985/86 F/Y that the 3.5~ increase be granted
across the board effective retroactive to October 1, 1985. Further,
discussion was had regarding the changing of the date at which time
any increase be granted in the future, with the recommendation being
made by the Town Manager to use employment anniversary date in the
future. Further discussed was the philosophy of granting COLA's at
all. Determination will be made as to whether or not the policy of
granting across the board increases should be totally eliminated.
This matter will again be addressed at the February 4, 1986 Regular
Meeting. _
Mr. Williams reported that a raft found on the beach in excess of six
months ago was being returned to its finder in compliance with state
statute.
Regarding a memorandum recommending the the increase in police fines
and accident reports, a listing of these along with certain other
administrative fees i.e. notarizing documents, photocopying, etc. will
be considered at the February 4, 1986 Regular Meeting. ~"~/
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 6 of 7
A memorandum from the Town Manager dated January 14, 1986 regarding
outdoor landscaping at Town Hall was cited. Mr. Williams distributed
a proposed plan put together by the CAB which is the ultimate goal to
be implemented around the Town Hall grounds.
The next matter discussed was the possible financial impact on
residents should Delray's contention with regard to the sewer issue
be successful. This was discussed also with regard to the figures
used in the pending audit. Mr. Williams noted that in his opinion,
the worst case scenario would create an additional $3.50 charge per
month per resident. Attorney Sliney noted that this could not be
retroactive. At this time, it was the opinion of both the Town
Attorney and Town Manager that no additional sums be accumulated in
this regard.
Several comments from the Financial Advisory Board with regard to the
draft audit were noted. This audit will be addressed at the February
4, 1986 Regular Meeting with a view toward giving final approval.
• The Town Manager reported that with regard to the recent survey of .;-
Town employees as to options available for Friday, December 26, 1986
as a staff holiday, the majority of employees opted to leave the day„
as a regular work day.
With regard to the possible implementation of impact fees, Mr.
Williams stated that he felt the only fee which might be justified
would be an impact fee with regard to water. Mr. Williams will work
with the Town Attorney to recommend such fees to the Town Commission
at an early date.
The Town Manager gave an update on the repair of the damaged Intra-
coastal water line, noting that the damaged area had been cleaned off
and was ready for repair. Mr. Williams also noted that an additional
clamp would be replaced during repair, which should be completed by
the end of this week.
There being no further business to come before the Town Commission at
this time, the meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
•
Town Commission Workshop Meeting
January 28, 1986
Page 7 of 7
APPROVED:
ward J. Su7~].~(van, Mayor
~.~~~.~D~.~•. ~ . ~.p ate, e.
Mary Louise G. Blosser,Vice Mayor
~ydhn J~/B'asso, Commis ' over
ANA!/' ~1.
William A. Grier, Co, issioner
Bett Jean Stewart, Commissioner
ATTEST:
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DATE ; CL K ~'/~
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