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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMM - Meeting Minutes - 686 - 12-13-2001 - COMMISSIONERM I N U T E BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS i WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Minute No. 686r.....__,=�_r Washington County Commissioners Washington, PA, December 13, 2001 The Washington County Board of Commissioners met in regular session in the Public Meeting Room, Courthouse Square, Washington, Pennsylvania, with the following members being present: Commissioners John P. Bevec, Diana L. Irey and J. Bracken Burns, Sr. Also being present: Cathi Kresh, Administrator/Chief Clerk; Solicitor Richard DiSalle; Linda Belcher, Administrative Assistant; Lisa Cessna, Vicki Bryan and Melanie Finney, Planning Commission; Sheriff Larry Maggi and Todd Hammond, of the Sheriff's Office; Mike Namie, Deputy Controller, Francis King, Treasurer; Roger Metcalfe, Budget Director; Sue Orrick, Commissioner Bum's Office; Jeff Yates, Ron Sicchitano and Kathy Ross Public Safety Department; Jack Welty, Maintenance; Jeff Kotula, Washington County Chamber of Commerce; Susan Priest, Citizens Library; Mark Kavakich, North Franklin Township Police Department; Carole Beck, North Franklin Township Council member; Dave Holovach, Peters Township Fire Department; Bonnie Gilbert and Dennis Fazzalore, Air Charter Services, Inc.; Jerry Seaman, interested citizen; Sara Snatchko, PA Focus; Linda Metz, Observer -Reporter; Jim Jefferson, WJPA; Chris Haines, Herald -Standard; Vince Guerrieri, Tribune Review; and Stacy Wolford, Valley Independent. Chairman Bevec called the meeting to order at approximately 10:00 a.m. Pastor Stradling led the meeting with a prayer. Commissioner Burns led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chairman Bevec entertained a motion to approve Minute No. 684 dated November 29, 2001. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, that Minute No. 684 be approved as written. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey — Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chairman Bevec entertained a motion to approve Minute No. 685 dated December 3, 2001. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, that Minute No. 685 be approved as written. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. SPEICAL ORDER OF BUSINESS The Commissioners presented a Certificate of Recognition to Doug Brock and Matt Davey, of Lighthouse Electric, the recipient of the 2001 Pennsylvania PENNSAFE Governor's Award for Safety Excellence. Mr. Brock and Mr. Davey thanked the Board for the Certificate of Recognition and commented on their safety procedures at Lighthouse Electric. Jeff Yates, Director of Public Safety, introduced a group of emergency personnel who were very involved in the "Washington County Supports New York City" campaign. Mr. Yates thanked Dave Holovack of the Peters Township Fire Department and Mark Kavakich of the North Franklin Township Police for their commitment and efforts campaigning within the county for New York City. Mr. Yates reported to the Board that through these efforts Washington County was able to collected $196,722.80. Mr. Yates introduced De_nni A Pa7vn 1 nrP anr4 nnnni n n4 11°,m" - —1— MINUTE BOOK 3 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA their time and a plane to fly members of the "Washington County Supports New York City" group to deliver a check from collection efforts. Ms. Gilbert and Mr. Fazzolare commented they were very proud to assist in this very worthwhile cause and sated it was a honor to be a part of this campaign. (RECESSS FOR PHOTOS) PUBLIC COMMENTS Susan Priest, System Administrator of the Washington County Library System, gave a quarterly report for the period of July through September, 2001. Ms. Priest noted they were in receipt of a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and would use this grant to purchase computers for the library system. OLD BUSINESS Solicitor DiSalle recommended the Board award the bid for Linen Supplies to the following vendors for the Health Center and Correctional Facility based on the per unit costs submitted in their bid. Charm Tex, Brooklyn, NY Star Silk & Wollen, Pittsburgh, PA Harbor Linen Co., Cherry Hill, NJ Standard Textile Co., Inc., Cincinnati, OH Tabb Textile Co., Opelika, AL This bid will be effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002 with an option to extend for one additional year and the total yearly cost is approximately $75,000.00. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, awarding the foregoing bid to above -listed vendors. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Solicitor DiSalle recommended the Board award the bid for Briefs and Underpads for the Health Center and Correctional Facility to the following vendors based on the per unit costs submitted in their bid. Druzak Medical, Ambridge, PA Medline Industries, Mundelein, IL Paper Products, Pittsburgh, PA This bid is effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002 with an option to extend for one additional year and the total yearly cost is approximately $208,000.00. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded Mr. Burns, to award the foregoing bid to the above -listed vendors. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. NEW BUSINESS Chief Clerk requested authorization to advertise for bids for construction of Chartiers #41, McConnells Mill in Chartiers Township and Chartiers #59, West Maiden in the City of Washington for the Planning Commission. The costs will be paid 80% State and 20% County Liquid Fuels. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, authorizing the Chief Clerk to advertise for bids as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey — Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. 464 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA _ .. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an agreement with Washington Hospital to provide clinical laboratory services for the Health Center. This will be for a three year period and will be effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2004. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the agreement with Washington Hospital as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey — Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the adoption of a Resolution for the donation of outdated computer equipment that has a value of $50.00 or less. It is to be noted the computer equipment so donated by the county must be used to advance a public purpose and may not be used for the benefit of any private individual. above. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, adopting the Resolution for donated computer equipment as per Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval agreements with the following physicians for attending staff privileges at the Health Center. There is no cost to the County and the agreements will be effective December 13, 2001. Robert Ackerman, MD — Family Practice Donald Faith, MD — Family Practice Maryann Weinstein, MD — Family Practice Ravindra Mehta, MD — Psychiatry & Geriatric Psychiatry Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the agreements with the foregoing physicians for the Health Center. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey — Yes; Mr. Bevec — Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the renewal of the licensing and software maintenance agreement with Compudata for the Health Center in the amount of $15,357.00 effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the renewal agreement with Compudata for the Health Center as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an agreement with Heartland Hospice for hospice services at the Health Center. It is to be noted this was effective November 19, 2001 and will be automatically renewed on a year to year basis. There is no cost to the County for these services. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the foregoing agreement with Heartland Hospice. Roll call vote taken- M IN UTE,B ®® K 5 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the following Child Care Provider Agreements for 2001. These agreements will be automatically renewed until either party to the Agreement notifies the other party in writing of their intent not to renew under the current terms of the provider agreements. Essie Scott, Canonsburg Sandra McCoy, Canonsburg Ernest Harris, Washington Joyce Dudley, Canonsburg Emma Fraley, Donora 011ie Long, Washington Mark Heirendt, Cecil Katherine Crothers, Strabane Brandi Perkins, Canonsburg Jamie Grove, N. Charleroi Johnnie Mae Kelley, Washington Dorothy Jenkins, Bentleyville Peggy Banovich, Avella Lisa Bellora, Charleroi Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mr. Bevec, approving the foregoing Child Care Service Provider Agreements. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey — Yes; Mr. Bevec — Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an amendment to the contract with Value Behavioral Health to continue as the Managed c are Organization responsible for the provision of HealthChoices behaviroal health managed care services under the County's contract with the Department of Public Welfare. This will be effective January 1, 2002 through December 31,2 002 and no county funds will be required. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the foregoing amendment to the contract with Value Behavioral Health. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk recommended the Board reappoint David Miller to the Washington County Planning Commission for a four year term, effective January 1,2002 through December 31, 2005. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, reappointing David Miller to the Washington County Planning Commission as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an amendment to the contract with the Department of Public Welfare to provide the HealthChoices behavioral health managed care program for calendar year 2002. This contract will replace the contract extension previously approved by the Commissioners. It is to be noted the total value of the contract is approximately $16.2 million and no county funds will be required and is 100% State funded. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the foregoing amendment to the contract with the Department of Public Welfare. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. 4GG MINUTE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval previously submitted provider contract extensions for Mental Health/Mental Retardation Program. The contract term has been modified from the six month period (July 1, 001 through December 31, 2001) to continue through June 30, 2002. It is to be noted a total of twenty six contracts are proposed in the amount of $10,889.527.00 in combined Federal, State and County funds. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the contract extensions for Mental Health/Mental Retardation Program as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk recommended to the Board the reappointment of Joseph Femiani to the Children and Youth Advisory Board for a two year term, effective December 13, 2001 through December 31, 2003. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, reappointing Joseph Femiani to the Children and Youth Advisory Board as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their acknowledgement the 2002 insurance and vision rates for Blue Cross Community Blue and Select Blue and Health Assurance as submitted for regular employees, COBRA participants and retirees under 65. above. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, acknowledging the foregoing 2002 insurance and vision rates as per Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a Personnel Records Policy. This policy will outline that the Human Resources Office is responsible for maintaining confidential, up to date personnel records for all employees. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the Personnel Records Policy as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a Tax Anticipation Note with Washington Federal Bank in the amount of $2,000,000.00. Bank. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the Tax Anticipation Note with Washington Federal Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Appropriations for various county departments and offices that have been previously submitted for review. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving Supplemental Budget Appropriations as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the Property and Casualty rates through Campbell Insurance Associates for 2002 at the following premiums: Commercial Package $252,969.00 Health Center $185,861.00 County Airport $ 6,550.00 Public Officials $ 74,662.00 Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the Property and Casualty rates with Campbell Insurance Associates as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an agreement with the City of Washington Fire Department for the purpose of performing an annual fire safety inspection of all properties owned by the County within the City of Washington jurisdiction. The cost of the agreement is $1,000 annually and will be effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2004. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the agreement with the City of Washington Fire Department as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk requested authorization to advertise for bids for construction of Ten Mile #61, Day in Morris Township and Kings Creek #6, Jackson Mills in Hanover Township. The costs will be paid 100% Sate Act 26. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, authorizing the Chief Clerk to advertise for bids as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the solicitation of proposals from qualified firms for engineering services at the Washington County Airport for upcoming capital improvement projects per the 12 year plan. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the solicitation of proposals for the Washington County Airport as per above. r Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. 14 68 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a twenty five year lease with Air Charter Service, Inc. for a 48,157 square foot building site,1500 square foot fuel farm, 5 foot communication line easement and 15 foot sanitary sewer line easement at .33 per square foot. above. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the 25 year lease with Air Charter Service, Inc. as per Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a Fixed Based Operator (F.O.B.) Commercial Agreement with Air Charter Service, Inc. permitting them to operate a charter facility including maintenance and fueling operations on Airport property. The terms will provide for a $.04 per gallon fuel flowage fee paid to the County each month. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the foregoing Commercial Agreement with Air Charter Service, Inc. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval Change Order #2 with Cast and Baker Corporation to deduct $22,467.18 from the contract price for changes of various line items within the contract. The original contract amount was $1,596.114.00. Change Order #1 increased the contract to $1,635,43.75 to complete additional ramp work per the grant increase. This change order will adjust the contract amount to $1,613,476.57. Another change order will be forthcoming to account for additional security measures and earthwork recently approved by the Commonwealth. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving Change Order #2 with Cast and Baker Corporation as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval Change Order #1 with Cast and Baker Corporation to deduct $23,792.67 from the contract price for changes to various line items quantities. The original contract was in the amount of $480,253.05 and the adjusted contract amount is $456,985.38. Another change order will be forthcoming to account for additional security measures and paving recently approved by the Commonwealth. above. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving Change Order #1 with Cast and Baker Corporation as per Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval entering into negotiations with CSX for 469 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Buffalo Township. It is to be noted the final approval for Washington County to accept the tunnels and payment to repair and preserve the structures for historical significance and future trial potential pending receipt of the revised terms of conveyance. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the negotiations with CSX as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a Professional Services Contract with Attorney Carl Smith. The purpose of the contract is for the Loss Prevention Department to utilize the services of Attorney Smith on issues relating to previous workers compensation claims. The contract will be effective January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002 at the hourly rate of $115.00 and will not exceed $1,500.00. It is to be noted there are sufficient funds in the 2002 Loss Prevention budget to cover this expense. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the Professional Services Contract with Attorney Carl Smith as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the renewal of the annual CLEAN User Agreement with the Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN). The terminal is currently installed in the Juvenile Probation Office and will be paid from the Automation Fund established for that office. The total contract amount for 2002 will be charged to $137,200.00. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the renewal of the CLEAN User Agreement as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a change in the agreement with Tiburon Justice Systems, Inc. It is to be noted there are two modifications totaling $8,300.00 for the Prothonotary's Office and will be paid from the Automation Fund established for that office. The total contract amount will be changed to $137,200.00. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the change in the agreement with Tiburon Justice Systems, Inc. as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a grant application to the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission in the amount of $20,000.00. This grant is for the acquisition of a microfilm writer that would primarily service the Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, Register of Wills and Recorder of Deeds. It is to be noted the matching amount of $20,000.00 would come from the Records Improvement Fund. 470 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the foregoing grant application to the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the renewal of the Child Abuse/Investigation Grant with the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency for the District Attorney's Office. The grant period is April 1, 2002 through March 31, 2003 and in the amount of $41,500.00 with an equal amount required from the County's general fund. Moved by Mr. Burns, seconded by Mrs. Irey, approving the renewal of the Child Abuse/Investigation Grant as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the opt out rate of $150.00 per month for any employee eligible to opt out of the County's health insurance coverage for the year 2002. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the opt out rate of $150.00 as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their acknowledgement the following monthly MetLife dental rates for county employees for 2002: Individual $15.31 Spouse or one dependent $30.00 Spouse and dependent(s) $44.84 Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, acknowledging the above -mentioned rates for dental care. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval an agreement with Southwest Training Services, Inc. for the purpose of providing work experience to a high school student. It is to be noted there is no cost to the County to have this student work up to 32.5 hours per week since Southwest Training Services, Inc. is responsible for compensating the individual. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the agreement with Southwest Training Services, Inc. as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk recommends the appointment of Robert and Eleanor Spahr to the Children and Youth Services MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, appointing Robert and Eleanor Spahr to the Children and Youth Advisory Board as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a tax levy and appropriation resolution fixing the tax rate for the year 2002 at 15.25 mills for general purposes and 2.25 mills for debt purposes and appropriate specific sums estimated to be required for specific purposes of County government for the year 2002. Commissioner Burns expressed his dissatisfaction with a couple of the aspects of the County budget. First, Commissioners Burns stated it is good news the Board was able to pass a budget without a tax increase and is proud of that fact. Commissioner Burns stated after balancing the budget and arriving at what he thought was a workable budget, his colleagues felt it necessary to go beyond that and engage, in what he thought unacceptable, the termination of a quality employee, Andy Baechle, Director of Parks and Recreation. He went on to explain Mr. Baechle is a professional with a bachelor and master degrees who came to the County with many years of experience and excellent credentials. He pointed out Mr. Baechle was instrumental in obtaining 21/2to 31/2 million dollars in grant monies. Mr. Burns also stated Mr. Baechle was very involved in many on -going projects that brought in additional revenue to the County. Commissioner Burns further stated with all of Mr. Baechle's accomplishments his colleagues still felt it necessary to fire him without just cause. Commissioner Burns noted the reason given by his colleagues for this action was the opportunity to save $27,000.00. Commissioner Burns stated the County did not save $27,000.00 by firing Mr. Baechle but actually saved $5,577.00, and he rejects this action. Secondly, Commissioner Burns noted in this same budget, the Board is sending'out a message to the public that Washington County has cut their commitment to economic development by about 40%. He stated that a partnership between the County and the Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1999 that was designed to provide a focal point for the County's commitment to economic development. He said that since that time this partnership has garnered for Washington County $37 million in economic development grants, loans, etc. and has created 1,500 jobs in Washington County only to have his colleagues "cut the appropriation by $30,000.00". Mr. Burns pointed out both these actions were taken after the budget was balanced. Commissioner Burns stated his embarrassment by what is before this Board today and will not vote for it. Mr. Burns — No. Commissioner Irey addressed a few points regarding the budget. She stated the budget that was posted was a workable budget but unrealistic with four outstanding union contracts not yet negotiated and with higher insurance rates coming in and was not comfortable with that situation. Commissioner Irey stated she personally called upon many directors and asked them to take another look for any unnecessary costs in their department. The Planning Commission did a reorganization of their office and eliminated a middle management position and the cost savings of this action was $43,281. She added the duties were reassigned and services will not be affected with this management decision. Commissioner Irey also noted the County has always worked with economic development, providing increased revenue but had to ask "how is this bE'Sf�,.func9P[�?��_fihra'j�i atenA then PeNmvA Ta; 1l r. "4-;�,o 472 M I N U T E BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS NIM WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA because the County believes in it and feels Mr. Kotula is doing a good job. Commissioner Irey noted, in difficult times, the Board was looking to see where the Board could save and how to make up for the difference. Commissioner Irey believes the agencies the Chamber of Commerce supports can step up and assist in funding for that budget to make certain economic development activities go on and stated the Board of Commissioners will be behind them for support. Commissioner Irey noted for the record, the savings in various departments and agencies within County government over the past several weeks. Commissioner Irey said she is proud of this budget and votes "Yes." Chairman Bevec stated in difficult times the County relies on the directors to make decisions on how to reduce costs without negatively impacting services. This results in cutting luxuries instead of necessities. Chairman Bevec felt it would be catastrophic to his constituents to put forward a tax increase in Washington County. Chairman Bevec noted we must live within our means without cutting essential services that are so critical to the residents of Washington County. He noted it is his hope that the funding change to the economic development partnership is a temporary measure and will be restored in the near future. He pointed out that of the approximately seven economic development agencies in the County, the partnership is the only one the County funds. He stated he is calling a summit of all economic development agencies with the primary goal of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each agency to determine how to streamline our efforts and move forward together to accomplish the ultimate goal of jobs for Washington County residents. Mr. Bevec, therefore, votes "Yes". Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Bevec, approving the tax levy and appropriation resolution as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns -No; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried. ANNOUNCEMENTS An Executive Session was held on December 12, 2001 in Room 704 immediately following the Agenda Meeting to discuss personnel and litigation issues. The Board of Commissioners will resume January 3, 2002 and continue on the first and third Thursdays for the year 2002. Washington County Offices will be closed December 25, 2001 and January 1, 2002 in observance of the Christmas and New Years Day holidays. SOLICITOR Solicitor DiSalle presented to the Board for their consideration and approval the following tax refunds that have been approved by the Treasurer, Tax Assessor and Solicitor for the Tax Claim Bureau. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, that the Tax Assessment Office be authorized to prepare the following Tax Refunds due to either duplication or overpayment of real estate or personal property tax. 1. Warren J. & Melinda Sue Duncan (2001 County Tax) 244 McDonald Road West Alexander, PA 15376 District: West Alexander Borough Parcel No. 680-010-00-00-0009-01 Total amount: $24.01 MINUTE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS B ® ❑ K WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA D 2. Regis & Irene Leach 306 Barbara Drive Monongahela, PA 15063 District: Carroll Township Parcel No. 130-006-11-00-0001-00 Total amount: $222.28 3. Kmart Corporation P.O. Box 560907 Dallas, TX 75356 District: Peters Township Parcel No. 540-010-00-00-0020-05A Total amount: $3,446.42 4. Gilbert C. & Marcie Miller 6 Lexington Court McMurray, PA 15317 District: Peters Township Parcel No. 540-010-00-00-0002-03 5. John A. & Beverly L. Coates 108 Howard Street Charleroi, PA 15022 District: Speers Borough Parcel No. 610-026-01-00-0019-00 Total amount: $24.06 6. Michael Caroselli Et Al 1040 Washington Road Washington, PA 15301 District: South Strabane Township Parcel No. 600-001-01-02-0012-00 Total amount: $6.76 7. Annie Allen & Gwendoyn Davis P.O. Box 2067 Newark, NJ 07114 District: North Franklin Township Parcel No. 510-001-04-04-0005-00 Total amount: $67.30 8. John & Sandra L. Lesnick 36 Johnston Road McDonald, PA 15057 District: Mt. Pleasant Township Parcel No. 460-010-00-00-0024-00 Total amount: $129.66 9. Jacob F. Henke 1146 Valleyview Road Bulger, PA 15019 District: Robinson Township Parcel No. 550-011-00-00-0015-00 Total amount: $19.36 10. Rosalie McVicker 384 Old National Pike Brownsville, PA 15417 District: Centerville 1"' Ward Parcel No. 152-021-00-03-0025-00 Total amount: $206.14 11. Beverly Delattre 106 9`h Street Donora, PA 15033 District: Donora Borough Parcel No. 240-032-00-01-0008-00 Total amount: $69.86 12. Hawthorne Woods Asstd. Living, LTD 1625 Lowell Avenue Erie, PA 16505 District: South Strabane Township Parcel No. 600-003-00-00-0036-00 Total amount: $2,666.72 (2001 County Tax) (1999 & 2000 County Tax) (1997 & 1998 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) (1996-1999 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) (1997 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) MINUTE BoOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA 13. Jane Deemer 324 Zediker Station Road Washington, PA 15301 District: South Strabane Township Parcel No. 600-008-00-00-0015-03 Total amount: $34.30 14. Bologna Coal Company P.O. Box 271 Burgettstown, PA 15021 District: Smith Township Parcel No. 570-001-00-00-0005-00 Total amount: $83.83 Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. (2001 County Tax) (2001 County Tax) Solicitor DiSalle presented to the Board for their consideration and approval a Resolution authorizing the Washington County Council on Economic Development to submit an application for Redevelopment Assistance Capital Grant funding for the Starpointe Industrial/Business Park Project in Hanover Township in the amount of $2.4 million. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, approving the foregoing Resolution. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. BID OPENINGS Deputy Controller opened and read the following bids. FLAGS AND MARKERS FOR VETERANS GRAVES (No bid bond required) 1. The Flag Company 4156 Library Road Pittsburgh, PA 15234 Total amount of bid: $10,995.50 2. A. G. Trimble Co. 2889 Glenmore Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15216 Total amount of bid: $6,455.44 3. Atlas Alloys Co. Inc. P.O. Box 297 Atlasburg, PA 15004 Total amount of bid: $3,675.00 Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, to table the bids for review. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. MAINTENANCE OF 911 EQUIPMENT 1. MRA Incorporated 1480 Washington Road Washington, PA 15301 Total amount of bid: rates based on the "per hour" unit An Official Check in the amount of $2,500.00 accompanied the bid. Moved by Mrs. Irey, seconded by Mr. Burns, to table the bids for review. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Burns - Yes; Mrs. Irey - Yes; Mr. Bevec - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. There being no further business, Chairman Bevec declared the meeting adjourned at approximately 10:40 a.m. THE FOREGOING MI/NUTES SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL: I f , 2001 ATTEST: //_ i , /cam--Q� ADMINISTRATOR/CHIEF CLERK 1-1 1 11 Yam'