COMMITTEE ON BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS

COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

MINUTES

NOVEMBER 26, 1996

ATTENDANCE:

B & A MEMBERS: Wishnie, Darcy, LaMotte, Delfino, Abinanti

ENV. MEMBERS: Carsky, LaMotte, Delfino

OTHERS: C.E.’s Office: Gina Angiulo, Jamie Hastings; Budget: Joe Phelan, Tom Coleman, Leslie Bennett, Robert Kopenhaver, Brian Fitzpatrick; CBAC: George Hosey; Barbara Strauss; LWVW: Jo Brill; PRC: Commissioner DeSantis, Anthony Aurricchio, Neil Squillante, Joe Stout, Bob Young, George Ilse, Lorraine Velez; BKS: Les Storch, Nick DeSantis, Lynn Bader; Action League for Lyme: Mona Marcus; BOL: Pat Gorski, Chairman Oros, Robert J. Boland, Glenn Guzi, Tina Seckerson

Co-Chair Wishnie called the Budget Committee meeting to order at 9:48 a.m.

Chair Carsky called the Environment Committee meeting to order at 9:48 a.m.

DISCUSSION: (There is a cassette tape on file for more detailed information.)

BENNETT KIELSON:

Mr. DeSantis stated that there is a $4 million increase in revenues mainly attributable to sales tax revenues. BK estimates $2 million higher for 1996 and will continue to monitor the growth rate

Hotel Tax: BK recommends an increase of $500,000 over the Administration’s estimate, using a 3% growth factor. Mr. Delfino informed the Committee that at a recent tourism meeting it was confirmed that the hotel tax revenues are expected to increase for 1997.

Motor Vehicle tax: recommending an increase of $500,000 predicated on the ‘94-’96 growth rate.

Dept. of Correction: Federal Inmate Program: Projecting a middle ground of 70 inmates -- an increase of $650,000. Mr. Phelan informed the Committee that the agreement we have with the Federal Marshall’s Office only guarantees us 60 inmates and there have been many instances where are numbers have been below that.

BK estimates total an addition $3.85 million in revenues.

Legal settlements: Estimated lag of $800,000 -- BK recommends increasing the $3.8 million provision to $4.2 million

Health Benefits: BK will continue to analyze this area but currently feel there could be a potential $5 million shortfall. Provider is going to a managed care program at WCMC that could provide some savings.

6N Fund: BK recommends increasing this fund by $5 million

 

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Mr. Phelan stated he has a strong argument for not raising the sales tax revenue number. He referenced the growth taxable sales which have averaged 2.4% per year, not drawing down any more than that -- the spur and growth rate for 1996 is the Westchester Mall which will level off -- and a historical trend which does not support higher numbers.

With regard to Motor Vehicle Tax Mr. Phelan stated that he believes that BK has miscalculated the structural events. He further stated that when the tax was first imposed it captured 52% of the registrations one year and 48% the next year. The numbers fluctuate. If BK’s recommended additions are added in I t will produce a number higher than we have ever had, according to Mr. Phelan. He stated that the same scenario holds for the Hotel Tax Revenues.

Mr. Phelan cautioned the Committee that revenues are unpredictable.

Health Insurance: Mr. Phelan stated that there has been a huge change in the way the County’s provider bills us. While improving the system it has totally undone the historical data statistics used by the County. The provider has also accelerated the payment of bills.

Mr. Boland recommended the Committee consider adding in all of the monies suggested by the auditors due to the December 2nd adds date. He reminded the Committee they will then have time to work on deletions. Mr. Wishnie suggested that the auditors and Budget Director discuss their recommendations together. He further stated that in his business he has found that the actuaries are always right, while they are usually conservative they put you in the right place.

Mrs. LaMotte stated that Mr. Phelan informed the Committee that with regard to the 6N fund 75-80% of funds are put in, why change the system now? Mr. Storch stated that usually the amount put in is most of the contributions, although they do not feel that this is the case now -- they would like to see the County put in a higher amount as a safety net.

According to BK: Total expenditures: potential $10.4 million shortfall and recommend additional revenues of $3.85 million

 

 

PRC:

Commissioner DeSantis stated that revenue in PRC has increased in the last two years. Mr. Boland questioned the $1.5 million difference in revenue against budget based on the 1996 probable number ($18,870,000) combined with the state aid number ($222,000). The Commissioner responded that the revenues have increased although they did not meet the 1996 appropriation.

Commissioner DeSantis stated that the revenue downfall was due to bad weather conditions therefore they have been very conservative in their projections for 1997.

Retirement Systems (1650): According to Mr. Phelan the decrease is due to FICA for OT

Overtime (1400): Mr. Wishnie inquired as to the wide variance in OT for 1996. Mr. Squillante responded that it was due to a very bad winter (snow) and the Department’s re-location to Mt. Kisco. He further stated that the reduction in rent shows in the buildings & space account.

The Commissioner stated that they have made significant reductions in OT at the County Center.

 

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Lyme Disease: Mr. Wishnie inquired as to whether there is any money in PRC budget for public awareness signs throughout the County’s parks. Mr. Stout stated that the Health Department supplies signs warning of ticks that PRC puts up in every County park. Ms. Marcus stated that her group toured all of the County parks one month ago and only found three signs. She cautioned that the County should look at the liability issue here as there are at least 75 trails throughout the County.

Employee Health Insurance (1680): Mr. Phelan stated that the increase is due to an upward trend in health insurance in general and an increase in the "family" plan vs. the "single" plan which has a cost factor attributed to it.

There are currently 347 full-time PRC employees. The Commissioner stated that they will probably decrease at least 40 seasonal positions this year. Mr. Wishnie inquired as to whether the services of these 40 seasonal employees will be missed. Commissioner DeSantis stated that they are working with the Budget Department and they have some flexibility with regard to hiring these people back if revenues continue to trend upward.

Mr. Darcy inquired as to work shifts on the Glen Island Bridge. The Commissioner stated that if the Coast Guard says that they cannot diminish the shift they will be mandated by law to continue the 24 hour shift. Mr. Darcy inquired as to whether there are any specific qualifications required of this position., Mr. Squillante required the only requirement is the training provided by PRC. There are currently 3 bridge attendants -- seasonal people have been used to fill this position rather than OT over the years and that practice will be continued.

Contractual Services (4380): Mr. Squillante explained that the difference in this account is due to the shifting of charges to more appropriate accounts. He cited a decrease in the hourly account (1200) and increase in the contractual account for various functions (i.e. "Happy New Year", Croton Point Park Festival).

Mr. Wishnie inquired as to the status of the Arboretum at Lasdon Park as the Planning Board has raised some serious concerns with regard to this. The Commissioner reported that this project has been put on hold. There are other ongoing projects at Lasdon, i.e. the establishment of a visitor center that will be operated by non-PRC personnel. In light of consolidation efforts in other areas, Mrs. LaMotte questioned whether there have been any discussions with other organizations (i.e. Botanical Gardens) with regard to the Arboretum project.

Marketing (4630): The Commissioner explained that they would like to continue the positive trend factor at Playland by increasing the marketing account. The tax levy has been reduced by $368,000. They intend to get $500,000 in revenues for the $250,000 in expenditures in this account. Mr. Phelan cautioned the Committee that the marketing account is directly linked to revenue -- a decrease here would directly increase the tax levy.

Playland: Mr. Abinanti requested a complete assessment of Playland -- a breakdown of revenue, income, bonding, etc. -- in an enterprise fund format.

Mrs. LaMotte inquired as to what the Golf Course numbers located on page C290 of the Proposed Budget represent. Mr. DeSantis stated that they are "individual rounds of golf". She also asked about the Tree Trust. The Commissioner responded that there is $40,000-$42,000 in committed funds and about $8,000 in uncommitted funds.

 

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COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

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Mr. Delfino inquired as to whether Dunwoodie Golf Course was being underutilized looking at the individual rounds of golf figures. Mr. Young responded that the use of Dunwoodie is maximized, the lower number is due to the fact that it is the only county course that has a 10 minute tee time. The other courses have a 9 minute tee time.

Mrs. Carsky inquired as to the status of the Parks Masterplan. The Commissioner responded that the 1st Phase included a full inventory of Parks facilities which has been completed by the outside consultant (Volmer); an advisory committee has been developed, and a recreation survey has been completed. The 2nd Phase will include recommendations for the various facilities.

Mrs. LaMotte asked about the "Main Stream" work program for developmentally disabled. The Commissioner reported that this has been a very successful program.

Mrs. LaMotte asked for the status of the Hudson Hills Project. The Commissioner stated that the environmental is still in progress in the Planning Department. They have proceeded with the preliminary designs of the course and the Integrated Pest Management Study.

Saxon Woods Pool: There has been a delay in construction. The pump house and filter room have gone out to bid.

Mr. Wishnie noted that, in light of employees possibly losing their jobs, it is important to get the message out that this investment will bring in revenue while reducing costs and saving jobs.

Mrs. Carsky asked if RFP’s have gone out for privatization of Hudson Hills. Mr. DeSantis stated that they went through this with Mohansic and it was proven that an entrepreneur cannot make a profit on this. Hudson Hills will pay for parkland which has never been done before. It is highly likely that a private entrepreneur will do this and still make a profit.

Data Processing (5260): Mr. Hosey stated that PRC is one of the few departments showing a decrease in charges for data processing services by GS and asked why. He further inquired as to how much of PRC’s data processing work is done in-house and how much will remain in-house if IS is privatized. The Commissioner responded that all golf related data processing is done in-house (GS is not involved at all) and their point-of-sale system is done in-house. (By in-house they mean that PRC contracts work out as needed but does not use IS). The charges for GS-Data Processing are network and maintenance charges for desktop computers. PRC started its own network system in June of 1996.

Mrs. Carsky inquired as to the increase in charges for Services by Public Safety (5390). Mr. Squillante reported that the increase is due to added police patrols in parks and at the County Center. Mr. Boland requested an analysis of this account.

 

Mr. Wishnie called for a recess at 12:00 p.m.

The Committees reconvened at 12:45 p.m.

MINUTES: On motion of Legislator LaMotte, seconded by Legislator Darcy, the motion to approve the Minutes of November 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, 1996 was carried by a vote of 3-0. (Legislators Abinanti and Delfino out for vote)

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COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

MINUTES - NOVEMBER 26, 1996

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MISCELLANEOUS BUDGET:

Mr. Phelan informed the Committee that most of the items in the miscellaneous budget are contracts that go through A&C.

Certiorari Proceedings (2020): $11.4 million for ‘97: Not a contractual item and not totally in our control. The Budget Director stated that they were hoping for some savings in this area for 1996 but, due to the Rye Town Hilton case, it looks as the $11.5 million will be enough to cover it. Mr. Phelan informed the Committee that they will be coming to the BOL for a budget transfer for one of the sewer districts.

Citizens’ Services (information Center) (2070): Increase due to contractual step increases in salaries including a re-certification of a position from a Grade 12 to Grade 13.

County Membership Fees (2030): For NACo and NYSAC memberships. Mr. Wishnie stated that an additional $10,000 will probably be added in for consideration of membership in the Supervisors and Legislators Association. Mr. Oros stated that he would be willing to give it a shot for a year to weigh the advantages of membership in the organization.

Court Ordered Medical Examinations (2035): These are for court-ordered criminal psychiatric exams that there is a continuing need for. Ms. Bennett informed the Committee that this has nothing to do with inmates already incarcerated at the jail. Ms. Bennett will provide back-up for 1995. Mr. Phelan informed the Committee that EMSA is providing medical services not psychiatric services.

Crime Victims Assistance (2040): Mr. Darcy noted that this service has expanded and asked if it is being picked up in the DA’s budget? Mr. Phelan explained that this is for different services than the D.A.’s Office provides.

Drug Testing (2055): reallocated from the Misc. Budget to the Personnel Office Budget. ($43,500)

Ethics Commissions (2062): new account for 1996; pays for outside counsel, investigations

Family Center Program (2064): new account: to provide day care for people who come to court, not for employees -- attempting to shape this program now. Mr. Wishnie requested something in writing that would explain this program.

In Rem Proceedings (2075): The Committee requested more information on this account. Mr. Phelan will provide.

Independent Audit (2065): Audit of year-end books. There is a new contract. An RFP was sent out -- six were sent out -- two responded. Mr. Phelan stated they are currently negotiating terms with Bennett Kielson.

Interest Income-District Repayment (2080): Repayment to sewer district for money used from their accounts throughout the year.

Invest in Kids (2081): Mr. Boland asked why was it isn’t in the budget of the Office of Advocacy. Mr. Phelan stated that it was moved out and put in Misc. Budget.

OSHA Safety Standards (2095): This is managed by the Budget Office (Risk Management). It is to meet regulations for testing, education and training. Mr. Phelan stated that this money has already pad for TB testing for CO’s, police officers, and Labs & Research employees.

 

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COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

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Public Utility Service Agency (2110): An organized unit in County service that is used when rates are being raised -- used to pay for outside counsel in this area.

Special Studies (2120): Special instances that were not contemplated in budget, - Mr. Boland requested a breakdown of this account.

Mr. Boland inquired as to whether a budget transfer has to come before the Budget Committee to transfer from one account to another within the Miscellaneous Budget. Mr. Phelan responded that it does not although they cannot transfer from funds that have been committed.

Statutory Charges (2125): The Committee requested a list of what comprises this account. Mr. Phelan will provide.

Taxes on County Property (2130): Mr. Fitzpatrick explained that this is for sewer and water taxes.

Mr. Boland asked where PILOT payments could be found. Mr. Fitzpatrick stated that they are found in various places, i.e. the Mt. Vernon PILOT is paid for by GS and charged back to the departments that occupy the building.

Mrs. LaMotte inquired as to the relationship between Westchester County Public/Private Partnership (2171) and Westchester Partnership for Economic Development (2187). Ms. Bennett explained that in ‘95 the Office of Economic Development was downsized and the County entered into a contract with the Westchester County Association. The County Assn. privatization contract was combined with the Westchester Business Partnership contract and it was requested that the name be changed to Westchester Partnership for Economic Development. Mr. Abinanti requested back-up on this.

Retirement Systems (1650): $16 million is for FICA and $11 million is

Employee Health Insurance (1680): Mr. Phelan explained that this is our employee benefit plan that is managed by POMCO. Finance Department requested $34 million for 1997, the Budget Department allowed $29 million.

6N Fund (4937): Mr. Phelan stated that on an actuarial basis Bob Boland and the auditors feel this figure is too low and recommend an addition of $5 million.

The Committee discussed the possibility of adding $150,000 to cover the cost of adding a Legislative Office of the Inspector General to oversee contracts. Mr. Wishnie stated that other organizations who have such an office have uncovered masses of wasted dollars. Mr. Phelan reminded the Committee that this would require a Charter change.

 

 

 

There being no further items for discussion, on motion of Legislator Abinanti, seconded by Legislator Wishnie, the Budget Committee meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p.m.

There being no further items for discussion, Chair Carsky declared the Environment Committee adjourned at 2:45 p.m.