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BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

BOARD OF SUPERVISORSJune 12, 2013

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BodyBoard of Supervisors
MeetingRegular Meeting
Date📅 June 12, 2013

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Meeting Summary

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At a glance

County Auditor-Controller Budget Presentation

  • The department presented a $7.6 million budget and highlighted a 23% staffing reduction over six years.
  • The Auditor-Controller reported that the county received the highest short-term credit rating in the state.
  • Staff requested the restoration of four positions, with the CEO recommending funding for two of them.
  • The office completed accounting for the dissolution of Regional Development Agencies, generating significant ongoing and one-time revenue.

Management Salary Options (CEO Office)

  • The CEO’s office presented three options for management salary increases, including compaction and cost-of-living adjustments.
  • The Auditor-Controller supported a uniform cost-of-living increase, citing difficulties in implementing equitable performance-based raises.
  • The Board noted that Option 3 includes elected officials, while the other options exclude them.
  • No motions were made, and the Board indicated they would consider the options during deliberations.

Property Tax Growth Estimates

  • The Auditor-Controller noted that recent activity suggests property tax growth may exceed the initial 2.22% estimate.
  • A 1% increase in the estimate would yield approximately $1.3 million for the general fund and $290,000 for the Fire Department.
  • The Board acknowledged the preliminary nature of these financial figures.

Fire Department Budget Presentation

  • The Fire Chief presented a $51 million operating budget with zero general fund contribution due to a move to a special revenue fund.
  • Proposed service reductions include shutting down Engine 11 in Goleta and unstaffing a position at Station 22.
  • The department identified a $78 million capital improvement program with only 13% of funding currently identified.
  • The Chief proposed using fund balance and one-time savings to bridge gaps until property tax growth materializes.

Probation Department Budget Presentation

  • The department presented a $50 million budget with an 8.2 FTE reduction, primarily at the Santa Maria Juvenile Hall.
  • To close a $919,000 gap, the department proposed eliminating standby transportation to the Santa Maria facility.
  • The department proposed contracting out juvenile justice mental health services to Corizon for an estimated $300,000 in savings.
  • The Chief supported management compaction, noting that senior managers currently earn less than their subordinates.

Sheriff’s Department Budget Presentation

  • The Sheriff presented a $120 million budget with a 10% reduction in sworn staff since 2007.
  • The department detailed a $1 million deficit driven by custody positions, inmate medical costs, and aviation maintenance.
  • A package deal with Corizon Health Care allowed the department to shift funding to cover custody deputy needs.
  • The Sheriff requested general fund support for aviation maintenance, noting that asset forfeiture funds are restricted.

Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Services (ADMHS) Budget Presentation

  • The interim director presented a $78 million budget with a $216,000 expansion request for increased inpatient bed costs.
  • The department anticipates using $1.4 million of its fund balance to address the projected budget gap.
  • The presentation addressed the transition of mental health services to Corizon, which impacts 11 FTEs.
  • Board members requested a more in-depth discussion and contract review before making a decision on the Corizon proposal.

Child Support Services Presentation

  • The director presented a $9.4 million budget funded entirely by federal and state sources.
  • The department reported receiving a statewide report award for increased collections and exceeding performance averages.
  • Labor concessions prevented layoffs following a last-minute funding reduction of $175,000.
  • No service level reductions were reported for the upcoming fiscal year.

First Five Children and Families Commission Presentation

  • The commission presented a budget supported by approximately $3.9 million in tobacco tax allocations.
  • The department highlighted a reduction in child abuse recidivism rates from 30% to 4.7% through the Front Porch program.
  • A strategic planning process is underway to cut approximately $600,000 from the budget beginning in FY 2014-15.
  • The commission maintains a policy of holding at least one year’s core operating expenses in reserve.

Public Health Department Presentation

  • The department presented an $80 million budget with a general fund contribution of just over $8 million.
  • Staffing includes a 15 FTE increase from the Hazmat program transferring from the Fire Department.
  • The department identified the state’s proposal to pull back realignment funds as a significant financial risk.
  • A detailed report on Affordable Care Act impacts is scheduled for the June 25 Board meeting.

Social Services Department Presentation

  • The director presented a $146 million budget with a general fund contribution of only 2%.
  • The budget includes an increase of 77 positions funded by federal, state, and realignment sources.
  • The department reported no anticipated negative service level impacts for the upcoming year.
  • The director discussed the department’s role in assisting with Medi-Cal eligibility and Covered California exchanges.

Clerk-Recorder-Assessor Presentation

  • The Clerk presented a $15.3 million budget with a general fund contribution of approximately $9.5 million.
  • The Assessor division is experiencing a backlog, with assessment work expected to be 95-98% complete by July 1.
  • The Clerk requested the addition of another appraiser to reach a stable staffing level for optimal performance.
  • Election staffing has decreased from 15 FTEs to 9 FTEs, with five full-time equivalents dedicated to elections.

General Services Department Presentation

  • The director presented a $40 million operating budget with a 25% staffing reduction since 2006.
  • The department highlighted the completion of capital projects, including the Lompoc Animal Shelter and courthouse remodel.
  • The proposed budget includes $1.3 million for deferred maintenance, though the total backlog exceeds $30 million.
  • The Board reminded the department to provide a more comprehensive sustainability plan as previously directed.

Treasurer-Tax Collector Presentation

  • The Treasurer presented a $6.6 million operating budget and a $1.2 million capital budget for a property tax system replacement.
  • The department reported a 10% decrease in unsecured property tax delinquency rates, increasing collections by $3.2 million.
  • Permanent funding of approximately $200,000 is required for the property tax system’s ongoing maintenance.
  • The Board discussed the timing of revenue from the Carpinteria sale and other transactions.

General County Programs, Successor Agency, and Fund Balances

  • The CEO presented revised estimates for fund balances, noting approximately $3.7 million available with projected decreases.
  • The department proposed using a portion of the deferred maintenance reserve to fund outside consultants.
  • Clarification was provided on the general fund allocation, which was reduced by $7.8 million in unanticipated revenue.
  • The Board agreed to a timeline for submitting information for Friday’s deliberations, with responses due by 12:00 PM the following day.

Full summary

Public Comment

  • Probation Department Compensation: A Probation Department supervisor addressed the Board regarding compensation disparities, noting that managers are not covered by Civil Service Rule 410, which requires line-level supervisors to earn at least 5% more than the staff they supervise. The speaker stated that some managers currently earn less than their subordinates due to pay freezes and furloughs, and urged the Board to approve a budget expansion request to bring compacted managers to 3% above those they supervise.
  • Election Programs: A representative from the Clerk-Recorder-Assessor’s office provided an update on poll worker programs. The department is reviewing a counter poll worker program for various California counties and preparing a draft for Human Resources and the County Council review, with the intention of having the program in place before the 2014 elections. The speaker noted the continuation of five "adopt-a-poll" programs and a student poll worker program that had 80 participants in November 2012. The department also plans to inquire with the Santa Barbara County Employees Retirement System about the interest of recent retirees in working as poll workers.
  • Santa Barbara County Taxpayers Association: Joe Armandariz addressed the Board on multiple topics. He opposed service level reductions in county fire and law enforcement, arguing that core services must be fully funded. He suggested using Planning and Development to generate revenue to fund public safety and proposed considering a holiday on Development Impact Fees to stimulate economic activity. He commented on the general fund contribution to social services and public health, raised concerns about the sustainability of the "First Five" program as tobacco-related revenues diminish, and urged the Board to hold the Public Health Department accountable for its new role in hazardous materials. He also criticized the Board for celebrating credit agency ratings while managing fiscal decay and urged the adoption of an economic vitality strategy, specifically proposing a policy to take advantage of oil and gas reserves to generate revenue.
  • SEIU Local 620: A representative addressed the Board, noting that 60% of the members represented are not funded by the general fund. The speaker expressed concern about the move to contract out juvenile justice mental health services, arguing that it would increase costs and workload for remaining personnel. They noted that caseloads in child support, social services, and ADMHS have increased while staffing has been reduced, and stated that staff have made significant pay concessions and are not proposing further concessions. The speaker argued that the county is becoming a "training facility" due to high workloads, low wages, and low staffing, and urged the Board to prioritize frontline service providers.
  • Andy Caldwell: Andy Caldwell addressed the Board regarding Fire Station 22, asking if cutting down the station was acceptable. He questioned the disparity in budget increases, noting that Probation was looking at a 0.4% increase while Planning and Development was increased by 8.2%, Administration by 17%, Commission Board Support by 47%, and Long-Range Planning by 38%. He requested a board inquiry comparing gross increases from 12-13 to 13-14 for several departments. He asked about the approval for five additional Mental Health Services Act units in Lompoc and whether the City of Lompoc was consulted. He expressed concern about leaving without a placeholder in the budget for the mental health beds and asked if Probation and ADMHS were comfortable delegating services to Corizon. He also asked about the duration of ACA funding, where the revenue for the budget would come from, and unfilled vacancies in the department.

Agenda Item: County Auditor-Controller Budget Presentation

  • Discussion: Bob Geis, County Auditor-Controller, presented the department’s budget of $7.6 million. The office manages 199 county funds, 257 school funds, and other state/city/tax funds. The presentation highlighted the decentralization of application development, resulting in the management of 65 distinct applications across five main systems.
  • Property Tax System: Implementation of a new vendor purchase property tax system is scheduled for early 2013–2014. The Auditor expressed 80% confidence in meeting the target, noting that the fifth data conversion was completed recently, with two more required before go-live.
  • Staffing: Budgeted staffing has decreased from 57.9 FTEs to 46.2 FTEs over six years (a 23% reduction). The department requested the restoration of four positions: a Financial Systems Analyst, a Financial Accounting Analyst, an Accountant/Auditor for the training program, and a Senior Accountant for Customer Support. The CEO recommended funding for two of these positions.
  • RDA Dissolution: The department completed accounting and reporting for the dissolution of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), generating $4.2 million in ongoing revenue and $5.9 million in one-time revenue. A lawsuit from the City of Goleta regarding uncollected amounts is pending.
  • Training: The department reported on its New Auditor Training and Development Program, noting that 39 of 67 hires obtained CPA licenses.
  • Credit Ratings: Geis reported that S&P recently rated the county SP+1 on its short-term rating, the highest rating for borrowing short-term debt. S&P was also issuing a report on the long-term rating, giving the county a double A plus, which Geis noted was the highest rating for any California county or government entity.
  • Financial Management: The presentation covered the work done on cable franchise agreements to increase revenue and hold providers accountable, as well as the county’s credit rating, which was noted as the best in the state. The presentation also addressed the sale of the TRAN (Transportation Revenue Agency) and the county’s financial systems.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members inquired about the status of a lawsuit filed by the City of Goleta against the state regarding the RDA and bonds, and whether the county or the Auditor was also being sued. County Counsel clarified that the lawsuit was a challenge to the state, and the Auditor was named only because they have a ministerial duty to disperse funds, with no allegation of wrongdoing by the county.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Management Salary Options (CEO Office)

  • Discussion: The CEO’s office presented three options for management salary increases, focusing on compaction and cost-of-living adjustments.
  • Option 1: A 3% increase for 105 managers who have not received raises since 2008, plus a 3% compaction increase. Estimated net general fund cost: $370,000 (after estimated state/federal reimbursement).
  • Option 2: Includes Option 1, plus additional percentage increases (1–2%) for managers hired in 2008–2010 who have not received raises.
  • Option 3: A uniform cost-of-living increase for all eligible managers.
  • Auditor’s Input: The Auditor-Controller expressed support for Option 3, arguing that performance-based annual evaluations for pay increases are difficult to implement equitably and that employees have lost 8.2% to inflation since the last raise.
  • Clarification: The CEO clarified that Option 3 includes elected officials, while Options 1 and 2 exclude them. The Board confirmed that compaction would not result in "double dipping" for employees.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken. The Board indicated they would consider the options during deliberations.

Agenda Item: Property Tax Growth Estimates

  • Discussion: The Auditor-Controller discussed the impact of the Assessor’s roll extension on general fund property tax estimates. The initial estimate was 2.22%, but recent activity suggests it may exceed 4%.
  • Financial Impact: For every 0.5% increase in the estimate, the general fund increases by approximately $650,000. A 1% increase would yield approximately $1.3 million for the general fund and $290,000 for the Fire Department.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken. The Board noted the preliminary nature of these figures.

Agenda Item: Fire Department Budget Presentation

  • Discussion: Fire Chief Michael W. Dyer presented the FY 2013-14 operating budget of over $51 million and a capital budget of $440,000. The General Fund contribution is zero, attributed to the previous year’s fire property transfer and the department’s movement to a special revenue fund. The budget supports 229 FTEs, a reduction of 56.3 FTEs since FY 2007-08.
  • Accomplishments: Dyer outlined FY 2012-13 accomplishments, including the completion of a career development guide, critical command training for chief officers, updates to the strategic plan and fire service training curriculum, and the acquisition of 12 lead defibrillators through a Fire Act grant.
  • Service Level Reductions: Proposed service level reductions include the shutdown of Engine 11 in Goleta (9 positions, $1.5 million to restore) and the unstaffing of the fourth firefighter position at Station 22 in Orcutt (1 position, $411,000 to restore). Dyer noted that Engine 11 responded to 10% of the department’s total calls in 2012 and is a designated water rescue resource.
  • Risks and Funding: Dyer identified risks related to salary increases, benefit costs, and a $78 million capital improvement program with only 13% of funding identified. Dyer stated the department has approximately $2.5 million in fund balance available to address deficits and proposed using one-time savings to bridge the gap until property tax growth and RDA funds become available.
  • Gap Solutions: The discussion included a list of potential gap solutions, such as water tender deferrals, apparatus deferrals, and fleet reduction, totaling approximately $1 million.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members inquired about the status of the gap solutions and whether any were preferred over the proposed service level reductions. A board member noted that a board inquiry form regarding property tax growth indicated an estimated 3% growth, which would result in an increase of approximately $225,000 to the fire district. Questions were raised regarding the impact of reducing the Type 3 engine fleet, the necessity of the fourth firefighter at Station 22, and the cost of a professional incentive plan ($80,000–$90,000) to support career development.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Probation Department Budget Presentation

  • Discussion: Chief Probation Officer Beverly Taylor presented the proposed operating budget of approximately $50 million, noting a 3% decrease from the current fiscal year due to increased public safety realignment and sales tax revenue. The presentation highlighted a reduction of 8.2 FTEs, primarily at the Santa Maria Juvenile Hall, and a reduction of the facility’s staff capacity from 110 to 90 youth.
  • Funding and Staffing: The department reported that the Governor’s May revision restored most of the statewide funding previously proposed for reduction, allowing the retention of three targeted gang intervention officers and their supervisor. To close the remaining budget gap of approximately $919,000, the department proposed eliminating standby transportation from Santa Barbara to the Santa Maria Juvenile Hall effective July 1.
  • Programs: The presentation addressed the implementation of Moral Reconation Therapy, the Sex Offender Containment Model, and a Veterans Treatment Court grant.
  • Compaction: The Chief Probation Officer supported the CEO’s recommendation for management compaction and compensation, noting that senior managers currently earn less than their subordinates.
  • Contracting Out: The department proposed contracting out juvenile justice mental health services to Corizon, with an estimated savings of $300,000. Additional savings of $108,000 were noted from contracting out court-ordered medical evaluations to local psychiatrists. Total potential savings were estimated at approximately $500,000.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members inquired about the definition of Moral Reconation Therapy, the status of on-call transportation services, the use of Prop 172 funds for equipment and security upgrades, and the flexibility of juvenile institution officers to work at both facilities. Questions were raised regarding the potential financial risk if the juvenile hall population exceeds 90, which would trigger mandated staffing ratios and additional daily costs. The Board discussed the logistics of transporting juveniles from North County (Santa Maria/Guadalupe) to Santa Barbara, questioning the efficiency of using high-paid staff for transportation and suggesting coordination or privatization of transport services. The elimination of three gang intervention officers was discussed; the Board inquired if this was grant-funded.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Sheriff’s Department Budget Presentation

  • Discussion: Sheriff Brown presented the proposed 2013-14 budget, which is approximately $120 million. 58% of funding comes from the general fund. The department is budgeted for 640.1 FTEs, a reduction of 69 FTEs (roughly 10%) from the 2007-2008 level. Sworn management staff has been reduced by 28% since 2007.
  • Service Changes: The presentation highlighted the elimination of the community services unit, tactical officers, and research and planning unit, as well as reductions in detectives, narcotics, gang enforcement, aviation, DARE, internal affairs, training, court services, civil, crime analysis, and forensics units. A 24-hour patrol post was lost due to reduced state special distribution funding.
  • Operations: The Sheriff noted that frontline services in patrol and jail have been maintained through innovative planning and salary concessions by unions. The department has addressed increased panga boat smuggling activities, interdicting boats and seizing over 14,000 pounds of illicit drugs. The Consolidated Air Support Unit was formed, and Copter 3 was commissioned. The department secured an $80 million AB-900 Phase 2 grant for the Northern Branch Jail, increasing capacity from 308 to 376 beds. Compliance Response Teams were activated to address criminal justice realignment (AB 109) supervision needs.
  • Deficit: The Sheriff detailed a $1 million budget deficit, comprising:
  • 1. $331,323 for three custody deputy positions previously funded as a one-time expenditure. 2. $454,502 for anticipated increases in inmate medical and pharmaceutical expenses. 3. $298,733 for increased aviation maintenance and fuel costs.
  • Recommendations: The County Executive Office recommended ongoing funding for the pharmaceutical and aviation shortfalls. The Sheriff negotiated a package deal with Corizon Health Care to eliminate the need for additional pharmaceutical funding and shifted the recommended $270,000 to the custody deputy need, reducing the request to 2.4 FTEs. The Sheriff requested that the aviation maintenance funding come from the general fund, noting that asset forfeiture funds are restricted and cannot supplant ongoing operations. The Sheriff emphasized that the recommended budget represents a "status quo" for the first time in seven years, with no staffing cuts.
  • Contract City Staffing: The Sheriff’s Department representative explained that the City of Carpinteria reduced a deputy sergeant and an admin position, and the City of Buellton reduced an admin position to balance their budgets. The Sheriff’s Department absorbed these positions, resulting in a budget expansion rather than a reduction, as the positions were originally funded through city contracts. The department is not requesting restoration of these positions.
  • Prop 172 Funds: The Sheriff’s Department representative stated that the initial balance of approximately $1.7 million has been spent on replacing computer servers, contributing $650,000 to the Northern County Jail Project, completing a dispatch radio replacement plan, and funding a $100,000 jail security enhancement. The department anticipates landing better than budget, which will generate additional Prop 172 and 1314 funds, some of which are earmarked for another $368,000 payment towards the Northern County Jail Project.
  • Chumash Tribe: The Sheriff discussed the status of negotiations with the Chumash tribe regarding the restoration of five deputy positions, noting that the scope of service for these positions is under negotiation.
  • Jail Staffing: The Sheriff referenced a jail staffing study that indicated issues with staffing the existing jail, which may impact estimates for the new jail.
  • Questions/Comments: Supervisor Farr inquired about staffing reductions in contract cities. Supervisor Farr asked about the status of Proposition 172 revenue. Supervisor Adam asked about the threshold for when the Sheriff’s Department handles maintenance versus when General Services is involved. The representative stated that minor issues are handled internally, while material issues, such as plumbing, are referred to General Services. Supervisor Farr asked about augmenting reductions in city staffing. The Sheriff’s representative explained that the City of Goleta is desirous of increasing staffing, creating a counterbalancing effect. Supervisor Farr asked about the remaining Prop 172 fund balance. The Sheriff’s representative stated it is earmarked for the new jail project, radios, and computer servers. Supervisor Farr asked if a staffing study would recommend additional personnel. The representative stated that any study would likely recommend additional people in patrol, investigations, and support, but the department must balance ideal needs with realistic constraints. Supervisor Farr asked if deputies assigned to the Santa Ynez Valley reservation would be free to respond elsewhere. The Sheriff confirmed they would be free to respond anywhere in the valley as needed. Supervisor Lavinino clarified that his reference to "cuts" referred to authorized staff numbers, not budget amounts. The Sheriff acknowledged the challenge of balancing declining revenues and increasing costs. Supervisor Adam asked if major maintenance costs go to General Services. The Sheriff confirmed that major projects go through the CIP and General Services, while minor projects are handled internally. Supervisor Wolf asked if asset forfeiture funds could be used for helicopter repairs. The Sheriff stated that while some funds might be used for law enforcement-related repairs, it would be unfair to burden law enforcement funds for repairs on assets used for firefighting and rescue, and the highest-cost repair was on a fire department-owned asset. The Sheriff explained the dilemma of funding the three custody deputy positions, which were previously funded as a one-time expense but are critical for operations. The negotiation with Corizon allowed the department to shift funding to cover these positions without an ongoing challenge. Board members inquired about the specific cities involved in the contract funding request, the balance of the Sheriff’s share of Prop 172, and the scope of the Chumash tribe agreement (whether it covers community calls or only tribal property/casino monitoring). A request was made to provide the jail staffing study to the board to inform ongoing cost discussions for the new jail.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Services (ADMHS) Budget Presentation

  • Discussion: Dr. Wada, serving as interim director for both ADMHS and Public Health, presented the FY 2013-14 operating budget of just over $78 million and a capital budget of $110,000. The General Fund contribution is $1.77 million (2.2% of the total budget). The budget supports 281.2 FTEs, a decrease of 16 FTEs from the prior year, primarily due to the Probation Department’s decision to contract with Corizon for the juvenile justice mental health program (11 FTEs) and MHSA program efficiencies.
  • Budget Expansion: The representative requested a budget expansion of $216,000 to address increased inpatient bed costs, noting a projected $1 million gap between revenues and expenses if significant changes to the inpatient system are not made.
  • Fund Balance: The department anticipates using $1.4 million of its $1.7 million fund balance in FY 2013-14.
  • Risks: Risks identified include potential state reductions of up to $2.5 million in realignment revenue, exhaustion of MHSA reserves in FY 2014-15, and uncertainties regarding ACA impacts.
  • Corizon Contract: The presentation addressed the transition of mental health services and the proposed contract with Corizon. The CEO recommended using general fund monies to eliminate a cost increase associated with pharmaceuticals, thereby avoiding a reduction of four custody deputy FTEs in the Sheriff’s Department. The discussion focused on the potential outsourcing of mental health services at the Santa Maria Juvenile Hall and Los Prados to Corizon, with estimated savings of approximately $300,000.
  • Staffing: The representative clarified that the 11 FTEs impacted by the Corizon contract are expected to be reassigned within the department, resulting in no layoffs.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members expressed concern about the timing of the contract proposal, which was scheduled for the following week, and requested a more in-depth discussion before making a decision. Questions were raised about how Corizon would provide the same level of service with potentially fewer dedicated staff, the consistency of treatment protocols, and the impact on the medical director’s role. A board member stated they could not feel comfortable moving forward with the recommendation without reviewing the contract and having further discussion. The Board discussed the potential displacement of current employees due to proposed changes. The Board was informed that the state is finalizing its approach to realignment takeaways, which could significantly impact 12 counties, including Santa Barbara, due to Affordable Care Act implementation timelines. Questions addressed the approval process for MHSA housing units, the level of service provided by Corizon, and the status of cost report liabilities with the state.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Child Support Services Presentation

  • Discussion: Director Karen Topliff presented the annual budget of $9.4 million, funded two-thirds by federal and one-third by state sources, with no county general fund involvement. The department reported receiving a statewide report award for increased collections and exceeding statewide averages in five major performance areas. The presentation highlighted technology innovations, including virtual court files and SharePoint software, and noted a perfect score in an extensive state security audit. The Director stated that labor concessions prevented layoffs following a last-minute funding reduction of $175,000. No service level reductions were reported for FY 2013-14.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members acknowledged the department’s performance and lack of general fund reliance. The Board inquired about the department’s profit margin, noting it appeared excessive.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: First Five Children and Families Commission Presentation

  • Discussion: The First 5 Santa Barbara County representative presented the FY 2013-14 budget, noting a tobacco tax allocation of approximately $3.9 million, confirmed grant income of roughly $400,000, and the use of approximately $700,000 in reserve funds to maintain level funding. First 5 receives no direct General Fund allocation but contributes $200,000 to the Children’s Health Initiative. The budget supports 14 FTEs, down from 16 in FY 2007-08.
  • Accomplishments: The representative highlighted FY 2012-13 accomplishments, including the administration of 35 grants totaling $4.3 million, a reduction in child abuse recidivism rates from 30% to 4.7% through the Front Porch program, and a 16% increase in kindergarten readiness in Thrive Communities.
  • Future Planning: The representative stated that no service level reductions are expected in FY 2013-14, but a strategic planning process is underway to cut approximately $600,000 from the budget beginning in FY 2014-15 due to declining tobacco tax revenues. The commission maintains a policy of holding at least one year’s core operating expenses in reserve.
  • Governance: The Board noted the unique structure of the First Five Commission in Santa Barbara County, which has autonomous decision-making authority over financial and programmatic decisions.
  • Reserve Funds: The Board discussed the deliberate strategy to draw down the reserve fund to a more appropriate level, as the initial reserve was established higher than necessary.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Public Health Department Presentation

  • Discussion: Dr. Wada presented the FY 2013-14 operating budget of just under $80 million and a capital budget of $23,000. The General Fund contribution is just over $8 million. The budget supports 486.4 FTEs, a net decrease of 13 FTEs, including a 15 FTE increase from the Hazmat program transferring from the Fire Department and decreases from the phasing out of the medically indigent adult program due to the ACA.
  • Accomplishments: FY 2012-13 accomplishments included ACA preparation, a $106,000 Blue Shield grant, participation in a patient-centered medical home project, renovation of the Lompoc Animal Shelter, and implementation of an electronic health record system.
  • Efficiencies: Proposed efficiencies include reducing three FTEs in Utilization Review and Medical Social Services, slight reductions in Santa Maria and Santa Barbara health care centers, reducing five FTEs in Health Information Management due to automation, and consolidating the Santa Maria Women’s Center.
  • Risks: The representative identified the state’s proposal to pull back 1991 realignment funds as a significant risk, noting that the county would be hit with significant reductions. The ACA is 100% federally funded for the first three years, phasing down to 90% by 2020. A detailed report on ACA impacts is scheduled for the June 25 Board meeting.
  • Questions/Comments: The Board discussed the potential impact of state realignment takeaways on the department’s funding, particularly regarding the transition to Affordable Care Act services. Board members discussed the importance of attending the CSAC (County Supervisors Association of California) legislative conference in November to advocate for the county’s interests regarding the ACA and other funding issues. A board member encouraged other supervisors to attend the conference to provide input on policy groups and committees.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Social Services Department Presentation

  • Discussion: Director Dan Nielsen presented the FY 2013-14 requested budget of approximately $146 million, plus $270,000 in capital expenses for technology. The budget includes an increase of 5.8 million dollars resulting from the Board’s June 4 decision to add 77 positions, funded entirely by federal, state, and realignment funds. The General Fund contribution is $3 million (2% of the total budget), reduced from the historical 6% due to the use of fund balance. The department is staffed with 718.9 FTEs, increasing to 795.9 FTEs with the new positions.
  • Accomplishments: Nielsen highlighted FY 2012-13 accomplishments, including services for over 40 non-minor dependents under AB 12, finalization of over 100 adoptions, and the implementation of MyBenefits CalWin for online applications.
  • Service Levels: The department reported no anticipated negative service level impacts.
  • ACA Implementation: Nielsen discussed the upcoming implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in January 2014, noting the department’s role in assisting with Medi-Cal eligibility and Covered California insurance exchanges. He cited a current call abandonment rate of 17% against a Covered California expectation of 3% or less.
  • Questions/Comments: The Board noted that only approximately 2% (or $3 million out of $146 million) of the Social Services budget comes from the general fund. The Board expressed interest in applying similar monitoring metrics used by Social Services to other county departments.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Clerk-Recorder-Assessor Presentation

  • Discussion: Joe Holland, County Clerk-Recorder-Assessor-Registrar of Voters, presented the FY 2013-14 total budget of approximately $15.3 million, including $183,000 in capital expenses. The General Fund contribution is about $9.5 million (57% of the total budget). The department has 94.4 FTEs, down from 123 in FY 2007-08.
  • Accomplishments: FY 2012-13 accomplishments included recording 20% more official documents than the previous year, 100% same-day recording, and conducting the November 2012 presidential election with an 81% turnout.
  • Assessor Division: Holland noted that the Assessor division is down from 74 to 62 FTEs, leading to a backlog situation, with assessment work expected to be 95-98% complete by the July 1 annual roll. No service level reductions are predicted for FY 2013-14. Holland requested the addition of another appraiser at the end of budget hearings, citing the need to reach a stable staffing level to perform work optimally. He noted that an entry-level appraiser costs approximately $85,000 fully loaded.
  • Election Department: Holland reported that staffing decreased from 15 FTEs to 9 FTEs. He specified that four of these positions are half-time, with the other half of their time allocated to the Assessor division, resulting in five full-time equivalents dedicated to elections. He noted the continued use of one-time funding sources to mitigate service level reductions in 2013–2014 and the reliance on seasonal extra help employees to offset risks in critical functional areas.
  • Property Assessment Trends: Holland addressed property assessment trends, noting that 20,000 properties have had their assessments lowered from peak market levels. He stated that as the market rises, adequate staffing is required to review individual properties to ensure accurate assessments in accordance with the law, rather than relying on mass trending which may result in lower assessments.
  • Questions/Comments: The Board inquired about the timeline for filling three vacant positions and the cost of additional staff. The Board noted the shift from physical site visits to using digital tools like Google Earth for reappraisals. Board members inquired about the Assessor’s capacity to conduct upward reassessments and the status of the proposed county poll worker program. Questions addressed the use of one-time funds for ongoing operations and the availability of restricted funds for hiring.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: General Services Department Presentation

  • Discussion: Matt Pontes, General Services Director, presented the recommended budget for fiscal year 2013-2014. The proposed operating budget is slightly over $40 million, with a capital budget of approximately $9 million, equal to the previous year. The general fund contribution is approximately $8 million (20.3% of the total budget). Staffing levels represent a 25% reduction from the 2006-2007 level of 151.4 FTEs, partly due to the reassignment of the risk management function to the County Executive Office.
  • Accomplishments: Pontes highlighted recent accomplishments, including executing professional service agreements for the design and management of an $80 million state grant for the Northern Branch County Jail, completing capital projects funded by Community Development Block Grants (Lompoc Animal Shelter, Lompoc Veterans Building, Cuyama Family Resource Center, Santa Maria Court Seismic Retrofit), completing a $5.6 million public defender remodel at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, transitioning county radios to narrowbanding technology, and completing a countywide technology strategic plan. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the BetterAvia administrative building addition is scheduled for July.
  • Challenges: The presentation addressed challenges, including deferred maintenance. The proposed budget includes $1.3 million for countywide deferred maintenance, but the backlog is over $30 million. Pontes stated that current funding levels only allow for reactionary repairs and that more adequate funding is needed for proactive replacement and preventative maintenance. He also discussed organizational stability, noting recent management changes and vacancies at the assistant director and director levels, with an aggressive campaign underway to fill these positions. Technology upgrades, including Voice over IP and new procurement software to replace antiquated systems, were also discussed.
  • Questions/Comments: Supervisor Farr asked if vacancies affected the spending of the deferred maintenance allocation. Pontes confirmed that the allocation was fully spent and that interviews for assistant director positions were ongoing. Supervisor Farr asked if the department was ready to move forward with high-priority projects identified in consultant reports. Pontes confirmed that high-priority projects, particularly those involving health and safety, were already identified and verified by the consultant reports. Supervisor Lavenier asked for clarification on a $2.8 million figure for a specific project. Pontes indicated the information needed to be double-checked. Pontes confirmed the department has an energy coordinator focused on a holistic approach to energy consumption. The Board reminded the department to provide a more comprehensive sustainability plan, including broader goals for solar and other initiatives, as previously directed. The Board noted the addition of Ford Fusion vehicles to the fleet.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: Treasurer-Tax Collector Presentation

  • Discussion: Harry Hagan, Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator, presented the proposed FY 2013-14 operating budget of $6.6 million and a capital budget of $1.2 million for the Thompson Reuters GRM property tax system replacement. The General Fund contribution is $3.1 million (40% of the total budget). The department reported a 23% staffing reduction since FY 2006-07, with 41.5 positions proposed.
  • Accomplishments: Hagan highlighted FY 2012-13 accomplishments, including the accreditation of two Veterans Services representatives, the conduct of two secured property tax sales (the first in 10 years), and a 10% decrease in unsecured property tax delinquency rates, resulting in a $3.2 million increase in collections.
  • Service Level Impact: Hagan identified a potential service level impact: the loss of one Financial Systems Analyst position funded as one-time money in the prior year. He stated that permanent funding of approximately $200,000 is required for the property tax system’s ongoing maintenance and the analyst position to ensure the successful migration from the legacy mainframe.
  • Questions/Comments: The Board acknowledged the county’s triple-A credit rating. The Board discussed the timing of revenue from the Carpinteria sale and other transactions, with estimates ranging from $1.4 million to $1.7 million. The Board inquired about the impact of a potential vacancy in a key position, estimated at $149,000–$150,000 fully loaded. Questions were raised regarding the department’s debt service components, including principal payments, interest, and IRS subsidies related to recovery zone economic development bonds.
  • Decision/Vote: No motions were made or votes taken.

Agenda Item: General County Programs, Successor Agency, and Fund Balances

  • Discussion:
  • General County Programs: The presentation covered the General County Programs department, which functions as an incubator for new programs. It has no FTEs but approximately $3.9 million in operating costs and $11.5 million in general fund contributions. Major elements include the Children’s Health Care Initiative ($1 million), LAFCO ($100,000), and the Central Coast Collaborative on Homelessness ($75,000). The general fund contribution primarily funds facilities maintenance, capital outlay, strategic reserve, roads projects, and contingencies. A portion of concession savings ($5.1 million) was retained to anticipate increased retirement costs in 14-15.
  • Fund Balances: The discussion focused on the utilization of fund balances and board designated accounts. The CEO presented revised estimates for fund balances, noting a total of approximately $3.7 million available, with projected decreases of $2.8 million, leaving a balance of approximately $900,000. The discussion included the Assessor’s AB 1818 fund, which has a balance of $435,000, and the Naomi Schwartz building account, which may have a balance of $350,000.
  • Reserve Funds: Supervisor Wolff discussed a policy of setting aside $3 million per year for deferred maintenance. A balance of approximately $2 million was built up. The department proposed using a portion of this $2 million to fund outside consultants for deferred maintenance needs, with the remaining balance to be diverted to Public Works or General Services as determined by the Board.
  • General Fund Allocation: Clarification was provided on the general fund allocation for the 13-14 budget year. The original allocation was about $9 million. The department identified $7.8 million in unanticipated revenue, including $3.6 million in ongoing realignment dollars and a one-time amount of $3.6 million, which reduced the general fund contribution. The contribution is planned to increase by $3.6 million in the following year as the one-time element is no longer available.
  • Funding Sources for Expansions: It was clarified that CEO recommended expansions are funded in the budget with set-asides, while any additional items from Tab 31 would require identified funding sources.
  • Restricted Funds: A $310,000 balance identified as restricted was noted. The Auditor-Controller’s Office planned to move it to capital, but the Board has the authority to move it to program restoration if requested. A Board Information Form (BIF) would be prepared.
  • Board Inquiry Forms: Updates to board inquiry forms were noted in Section 2 of the agenda packet.
  • Departmental Expansions: Updates to departmental requested expansions and restorations were posted in Tab 31, including items discussed with the County Council and one department that had not previously submitted a request.
  • Deferred Maintenance Backlog: It was clarified that the $35 million deferred maintenance backlog for General Services includes projects already listed in the department's listing.
  • Questions/Comments: Board members questioned why the available funds were not being utilized more quickly to address budget gaps and inquired about the status of vacancies in the departments responsible for spending these funds. A board member suggested using the AB 1818 fund to hire an FTE to improve property tax administration efficiency, noting that the fund balance has been rolling over year-to-year.
  • Decision/Vote: No formal motions were made or votes taken. The Board agreed to the timeline for submitting information for Friday’s deliberations. The Chair requested that supervisors submit any additional information or requests to the CEO by 12:00 PM the following day to allow staff to prepare for the Friday deliberation session. The CEO’s office committed to providing responses to board inquiries by the morning of the deliberation session.

Adjournment

  • Action: The meeting was adjourned without objection. The next session was scheduled for Friday at 12:00 PM.