Staff: K. Fuller, Deputy Clerk of the Legislature; A. Cole, B. Crosby, J. Andersson, Health Department; S. Whicher, County Administrator; N. Zahler, Youth Services; D. Stoyell, Office for the Aging; P. Younger, Deputy County Administrators; N. Burston, Human Services Coalition; M. Lynch, Public Information Officer
Called to Order
The meeting was called to order at 3:02 p.m. by Mr. Proto, Chairman.
Additions/Changes to the Agenda
There were no additions/changes to the agenda.
Approval of Minutes of July 5, 2006
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Stevenson, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members to approve the minutes of July 5, 2006, as presented.
Youth Services
Youth Board Budget Recommendations
Ms. Zahler indicated that as a result of the Youth Board members being comprised of volunteers the budgeting process is initially completed in June. She noted that due to information received since that time figures have been amended. Due to State aid received it was determined the original over target request to provide maintenance of effort for agency salaries was reduced from $16,949 to $15,444. She noted that the salary levels are at the same level as two years ago.
Ms. Zahler reviewed the portion of the information packet addressing the financial and technical assistance partnerships with municipalities. As the maintenance of effort requested for the 2006 budget was an increase in target rather than one-time increase no over target request is being made; an over target request of approximately $6,664 will be made to provide for the increase in salaries for the municipal jobs program and some agencies that employ youth.
With regard to the Recreation Partnership, Ms. Zahler reported that the Town of Ulysses has written a letter stating their intent to withdraw from the Recreation Partnership effective February 2007. At the present time, members of the community have asked that the decision be reconsidered. The Recreation Partnership Board made a decision to review what the 2007 budget would be with and without the inclusion of the Town of Ulysses. If the Town of Ulysses does withdraw the County share would increase to $15,080, a three percent increase plus the portion for Town of Ulysses ($3,101), as a result of using the original formula to appropriately charge each segment of the members. Ms. Zahler indicated some Recreation Partnership Board members expressed optimism that the Town may reconsider withdrawing as a result of statistical data that indicates resident use. Mr. Hattery inquired why an increase rather than discontinuance of services. Ms. Zahler said that it is better to redistribute the cost than reduce services to youth as modifying or reducing programs would be difficult as it is a county-wide program. Ms. Zahler indicated the Town of Ulysses has been requested to provide a final decision by the end of August/beginning of September to provide adequate time for members to determine how to provide financing. Ms. Zahler said she would present her budget information as though the Town of Ulysses is no longer part of the Partnership to avoid a request for additional funds at a later time. She said that County Legislator for the Town of Ulysses, Jim Dennis, has been helpful in opening discussions and providing statistical data for Town Council members to review. Mr. Proto said the Town’s decision to withdraw was made by some no longer on the Town Council.
Grant Responsibilities
Information was provided regarding the Youth Services department’s grant writing assistance that has provided revenue over the past several years.
New Programs
Ms. Robertson requested a summary of potential new programs that had been discussed at the Youth Board be provided for review prior to the budget process. Mr. Proto felt the list could be beneficial.
Budget Adjustment
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Hattery, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to recommend the following budget adjustment to the full Legislature for approval:
Youth Services
Revenue Acct Title
Amt Approp Acct
Title
7020.42797 Other Local Government $ 6,000
7020.54442 Professional Service Fees
Explanation: The County Youth Services Department currently has
a contract with Workforce Development for JobLink services. The current
contract was through June 30, 2006. At this time, that contract is
being extended until September 30, 2006.
Budget Transfer
The Committee received information on inter-departmental budget transfers.
Youth Violence Prevention
Ms. Zahler reported the first meeting of the Youth Violence Prevention Task Force has taken place with the first activity to define youth violence and gather information. The Youth Services staff has been providing support at this time, however, the core group is seeking a grant from the Park Foundation to provide a part-time individual to provide coordination and obtain material. Ms. Zahler stated her department may submit the grant application. The group will start with an assessment and hope within six months to have the information that will assist in determining solutions to youth violence. In addition, she noted that although the grant would be one-time funding it is hoped that municipalities may be interested in providing funding for the task force.
Social Services
RESOLUTION NO. - AUTHORIZING PERMANENT INCREASE OF STANDARD WORKWEEK TO 40 HOURS FOR ONE FINANCIAL INVESTIGATOR – DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Hattery, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature. Ms. Carey spoke of the resolution as noted in the explanation below. It was noted that the Employment Unit ongoing caseload is between 150 – 200 individuals, there will be approximately five jail intake assessments weekly, and the family court clients varies (300 petitions filed annually). Ms. Carey also spoke of changing the structure of the department to provide a service where employees have a broader knowledge base. In response to Mr. Proto’s question, it was noted it is anticipated the State and Federal funding for the position should continue. Mr. Whicher noted the total potential local share would be approximately $1,200.
A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes – 4; Noes – 0; Excused – 1 (Legislator Shinagawa). RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services (DSS) wishes to increase
by 5.0 hours the standard workweek associated with the Financial Investigator
position dedicated to the Employment Unit, the Family Court Custody Court,
and the Intake Unit at DSS, and
WHEREAS, the Department will receive a mix of Federal and State reimbursement
which, combined, will cover eighty percent of the additional costs associated
with this increase, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services anticipates that, owing
to delays in filling vacancies which arose earlier in the year, it already
has sufficient spending authority in its salary lines to cover the payroll
costs associated with this increase, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services has a qualified employee,
presently working 35.0 hours/week in that title, willing to take on the
additional workload and hours, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services, and the
Budget and Capital Committees, That effective August 1, 2006, the standard
workweek of one of the Department of Social Services’ 1.0 FTE Financial
Investigators – Grade 11 (536) position be increased to 40.0 hours per
week.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Explanation: DSS has instituted a series of staffing changes to assist us in addressing the new employment participation rate mandates set by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. To that end we reconfigured our Employment Unit and have reassigned a Child Support Financial Investigator to the Unit. The Employment Unit Financial Investigator will conduct intake interviews with individuals seeking Temporary Assistance to ensure that child support obligations are being met, assess employment readiness, and oversee specialized supervised employment placements. This Financial Investigator will also, starting in August 2006, be assigned to the new Custody Division at Family Court. The Employment Unit Financial Investigator will meet with all individuals involved in custody matters in Family Court to address child support obligations, provide assistance in resolving problems with child support, and address employment related issues during custody proceedings. In addition this Financial Investigator will assist with the new jail intake assessment pilot project. They will help conduct intake interviews and when appropriate ensure that referrals to employment related programs are made. To ensure that all of the assignments related above are done efficiently and effectively this position requires a 40-hour week.
Monthly Reports
Ms. Carey provided a brief overview of the monthly reports and reviewed the various accounts associated with the Department. It was noted that as individuals reach the five-year maximum for services an increase in the Safety Net program. Previously the MMIS line was thought to be volatile, however, it is now a manageable figure. The Appropriation Balance sheet allows the Committee to see the monthly expenditures for the department; it was noted the account for indigent burials is included in other program budget figures (temporary assistance, Safety Net, and Emergency Assistance). The pie graphs provide a snapshot of the financial figures. The total service cases include child welfare and adult protective services. Mr. Herden will be available at the next meeting to further discuss financial.
Jail Intake Pilot Project
This project will begin August 21, 2006 and will have weekly meetings with members of Probation, Sheriff’s Department, Offender Aid and Restoration, and DSS to review and determine what steps are working and revise the program as needed to
Grant Application
Ms. Carey notified members of the Committee of the intent to apply for a large grant that will provide funding to allow a restructuring of staff that will blend the units. This five-year project will allow for comprehensive services through one unit rather than several. Grant funding will assist with the planning phase.
Mr. Shinagawa was excused at this time.
Health Department
Permission to Seek Bid and Level of Involvement – Vehicle – WIC
Ms. Crosby reported WIC has been informed of grant funding that will be available to purchase a vehicle. At this time she has not received written confirmation of the grant but will need to have approval at this time in order to proceed with a bid during the limited time frame set to receive the funds.
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Ms. Robertson, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, that pending written confirmation of funding, approval to seek and award a bid for a vehicle for the WIC program is hereby granted. REQUEST APPROVED.
Grant Renewals
The Committee was informed that two grant renewals were submitted last week: (2) Radon grant, contracted with Cornell Cooperative Extension, and (2) the innovative dental grant contracted through the Department of Social Services. A copy of the grants will be forwarded to the Legislature office for review.
Proposed Well Monitoring Program
The Committee was informed of the Health Department’s interest in proposing a water-well monitoring program. Mr. Andersson explained it would be a permit program similar to the present sewer system program. An existing section of the State sanitary code would be used, similar to ones used by other counties. Under the permitting system individuals desiring a new well would be required to submit an application with information about the planned well. Upon completion of the application review process an inspection during construction, copy of well log would be provided, and a water sample for bacteria and nitrates would be completed. Mr. Andersson explained it would be beneficial to have the program in place as it would assure proper placement of wells in relation to sewer systems and other wells as well as provide for accurate mapping of wells in the County. It was noted that although the Health Department does recommend placement of wells for new construction at the present time, there is no authority to require the specific placement; poor placement could have a negative impact on adjoining parcels. Both the well and sewer placement can usually be done at the same time and may not require additional staff.
Office for the Aging
Budget Transfer
The Committee received information on inter-departmental budget transfers.
Transportation Program
Mr. Stoyell reported New York State has announced that for the fiscal year 2006-2007 a new transportation program will be in place that will provide $5,000 for transportation operating expenses to the County. Discussions have taken place with Gadabout, a potential subcontractor for the funds.
Meeting with Human Service Agencies
Following discussion, it was decided that a meeting with various agencies associated with the Human Services Coalition, open to all Legislators, will take place on August 21, 2006, 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The meeting will provide information regarding programs.
Mr. Stevenson was excused at this time (4:30 p.m.).
Appointment
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Ms. Robertson, and unanimously adopted by voice vote by members present, to recommend the following appointment to the full Legislature for approval:
Community Mental Health Services Board
Auguste L. Duplan, term to expire December 31, 2009.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Hattery, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members present, to enter into an executive session to discuss real estate matters. An executive session was held from 4:35 p.m. to 4:52 p.m.
Workplan Review
This item was deferred until the next meeting of the Committee.
Adjournment: On motion, the Committee adjourned at 4:52 p.m.
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