Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the Monday, June 29th, 2026 1pm special call meeting. Uh, at this time, we will rise for a moment of silent reflection and an invocation by myself and a pledge of allegiance by
Administrator John Tatanic. Please pray with me. Our heavenly father, we thank you for this wonderful day in late June. Father, we thank you for the opportunity to meet and bless each and every one of us in the mission today. Father, as you know, our mission
today revolves around children, your chosen group. Father, in Proverbs 22:6, your word tells us to train up a child in the way he should go. Even when he is old, he will not depro from much. Father, we thank you for this
opportunity again to collectively pull our minds together and do what's best for the county of Indian River. In your son's name, amen. >> Please face the flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the
United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [clears throat] >> Okay. Welcome again, ladies and gentlemen.
Uh this is again a special call meeting that was called about uh two weeks ago. and the topic is the Gford Florida Children's Innovative Initiative Resolution. And we will begin by
comments from our assistant general counsel, Miss Susan Pra. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Susan Praau, deputy county attorney for Indian County, Florida. Yes. Um, this particular item, uh, I believe there's a a sorry, corporation Pioneering Change,
Inc., It's a local nonprofit organization that has approached the board of county commissioners and they're requesting support for the attached resolution to designate the Gford community as a Florida Children's Initiative community pursuant to Florida
statute 409.147. Um that particular statute establishes a process for any county or municipality to apply for that particular designation um to the state of Florida ounce of
prevention fund for the FCI designation. Um the purpose of this statute is to identify severely disadvantaged areas and provide guidance and resources to assist communities to address critical needs. um in reviewing of this I believe
that the resolution that was provided as I said it's attached here too and um did look at the Florida statute the 409.147 um to see about the uh proposed deadline of June 30th. I did not see that
deadline in the statute. Um in the statute I did see the requirements that are in there. One of them would be pursuant to Florida statute 409.147. If you're looking at subsection 4, it does require adoption of a resolution by
the county um in order for the county to apply to the ounce of Florida's children initiative. Um it it would if the board decided to adopt that resolution, there would be several steps that would be required to come afterwards. Um the
statute requires there to be a planning team provided. Um there has to be a strategic community plan adopted. Um and then you identify or create a nonprofit corporation from there um from the planning team. Um this is all lined out
in 409.147 subsection 4. Um it goes into subsection five, six, and seven as well. Um,
so at this time, however, I don't I don't know that it's from the way that the statute's written, it doesn't appear that it would be the organization that applies. It appears that it would be once the resolution is adopted, the local governing body being ourselves as
a county would be the ones to apply. So, I just want to make sure that we have that straight as far as the statute works. Um, but at this time, I would leave it to the board. um and staff to if they have recommendations as to whether to support or not support um
this resolution being mindful that it wouldn't be the organization applying. It would be the county who is in charge of applying pursuant to 409.147. >> Okay. So this is a little different than most other resolutions in that in some
cases the a simple resolution by this governing body would simply um suggest or encourage that we in fact would support a particular mission uh but particularly uh excludes the administration of a particular
uh function. Um, I read and I know we had this meeting because of a June 30th deadline. I have read several things and maybe Mr. Administrator could could answer. I haven't seen anything about a June 30th
deadline and I I may have overlooked it. >> Uh, Mr. Chair, members of the board, I I did go to the Florida ounce of Prevention's website and they have a very detailed overview and designation process as well as looked at the statute
and I couldn't find the the deadline >> either of June 30th uh not withstand it does have a in that one section does talk about submitting a request and everything that's been required to be submitted if it's done so on behalf of the county which I probably agree I do
agree with the our deputy county attorney that the county uh based on the statute should be seeking the designation and then there would be some additional information that would be required in this process but I mean they're asking to us to support and I
think even in the the resolution that they prepared is for the county to be this says whereas pioneering change will apply for so I mean I don't that suffices is for the
>> right well there there's no doubt that there's clearly a need uh for this initiative in Gford. I think the question is um does the county want to be in a position to administer this particular program
and that is for this body to uh to contemplate today. >> Commissioner Adams. >> Yeah. Um there seems to be another path or option forward though under 14B
to implement the section for the Florida Children's Initiative. The department shall contract with a notfor-profit corporation directly. Is that an option that they can take? they could pursue instead of going through this resolution where we
submit and have the administrative oversight, they can contract directly which doesn't require the resolution from us. >> That that is correct, Commissioner. So, if you look at um Florida statute 409147 subsection 14B, um it states that uh to implement this
section of the Florida Children's Initiative listed in this section, the department shall contract with a non-for-profit corporation. So they can work with the the Department of Children and Families to get an you know contract with them to then move forward and
further in this process for the um for what it is that they're trying to do um with the needs that are much needed. And to that I would add continuing on in that section it says to work in collaboration with the governing body meaning that nonprofit corporation and
the department to adopt the resolution. So maybe at this point what the board needs to do is provide a letter of support to uh pioneering change versus a resolution because this is
saying that the to implement department shall contract with a nonprofit, to work in collaboration with the government body to adopt the resolution. They've already done that. they've done a lot of the work already, you know, the statement of need and at least in the
resolution. But I think I think what's important is we follow the process so we don't set false expectations. So neither needs to be I think >> Okay. I think uh commissioners have any
other comments. I was going to have Miss Green come up uh because I believe on the 16th she mentioned there were two paths and one was for her organization and one was for the county if I'm remembering this right
you two have anything >> that that's what that's kind of the way I remember it too way I read it there's there's two different >> right and I and I don't and I think one thing that I'll say what I how I feel is I don't want the county to be involved
in uh something that's going to be time consuming from our employees and as important money and [snorts] if this has any uh effect on binding on our
current finances and manpower then we need to come up with another alternative. I think to look and see if there is a >> I mean this is usually a resolution is it's saying us as a body support something uh whether it's the arts or
softball little it's basically saying we support something we resolve it >> well I think what I'm hearing is if there's a path to move forward independently without the county but maybe with a letter of support we don't want to hinder that >> right >> um we just don't want to we want to make
sure we understand whatever the obligation might be >> right whichever's cleanest for >> for the success of the of the organization >> the only as far as the second pathway
where we would support would we have to have a committee a legislative or administrative function >> I don't that pathway was chosen I >> I don't see that what it does say that
the the department will contract with a notfor-profit to work in collaboration with the body the governing body to adopt the resolution and to establish a planning team and I know they have a planning team uh and then there's some required documents and there's some
requirements for the planning team in terms of the composition and the workg groupoups and there's other items that we don't have. So that's why I'm hesitant about saying we go to the county route where the county adopts a resolution because there's some of the 13 items that we just don't have and and
maybe they do and they can work with the department to accomplish that. And that's why I wanted to point it out because it appears that the second option is uh a bit vague and may be inclusive of all of the what I believe
I'm hearing are the concerns about engaging with the resolution. I believe that there is by taking the second option it's not going to uh eliminate the concerns.
Well, the one you're just looking at the last sentence in this the uh that section the not forprofit is also responsible for the development of the strategic business plan and for the evaluation fiscal management and oversight of the Florida children's initiative. So I think that goes to the
chair's point about >> and what differentiates this initiative of what's already existing with the community now I guess. >> So what >> we're going to hear that from
>> okay >> councelor Green >> okay if we don't have any further yeah as whatever we can do to to facilitate this Yeah, I I just when uh Commissioner Adams pointed out option two, uh it
sounded like it was very different, but from what I read, it's not very different. It's just we're on the side, but we're fully engaged. I I don't believe, >> right, we're just not the conduit. I don't believe I just want to clear that
the this second option is not it while it's different it's similar and will still have the same mechanism of uh and concern in
application and producing the product. >> No, it sounds like it. I saw Miss Green if she or any representative that wants to talk. >> Good afternoon. >> Good afternoon. Um, thank you all. Thank
[clears throat] you all for having uh us here um to discuss this. I just have a question for Jennifer. Did you talk to >> That's Susan. >> That's Susan. Uh >> sorry, Susan Praau, deputy attorney. I'm filling in for Miss Schuler. is out
today. >> She's out of pocket on assignment. >> Please go ahead. >> Were you in the meeting with um the state representative? Did you have a conversation with the state representative? >> Uh I was I can tell you that we set up a time to meet with state with a
representative with Miss Winnie from the um what is it from >> Florida? Florida ounce of protection, I'm sorry, prevention. >> Um and she did not show. Um after that we actually left several voicemails not only with her assistant but on her voicemail asking her to return a phone
call so we could make inquiry as to what we needed to do, what we could help, what were the deadlines to see if maybe there was a little bit more wiggle room for us to work with >> something. And we never received a return phone call. Um never heard back from her. So that was
>> well that okay then that explains where your statement today because I thought that you had met with her. The deadline was established when we applied for the planning grant um of June 30th. So for us that's why our um workshops were like
every week kind of quickly to ensure that we met um the deadline. Um, the ounce of Florida Prevention only only contracts with nonprofits, which is why if it is a municipality or a county that
does it, they would have to then create a nonprofit or nonprofits from the area do it and then they get a resolution from the governing body saying that basically as um, Commissioner Lur said that other res resolutions do that we
confirm um that this area does need additional support. Like our our process was about I'll say it was about 90 days from planning to our workshops
to the strategic plan which we unveiled and I also shared with you all. Um we did receive the planning grant which required an application to put in our statistics um as well as the our reasoning for why we're applying for um
the designation. Um we are here today not to ask you all for financial commitment. Um our resolution is just for your support and partnership. Uh we know that having you as a partner can help maximize
um our resources as well as ensure that others come to the table because our county commission has basically said that yes, this is something that we believe in and deserves our support. Um, we are in hope that in the future as you
see the work of the initiative and the impact that it has on children and families that your staff as well as you all will want to bring ideas and projects and say, "Hey, we can work together in the community on these issues. But by all means, we are not
here today trying to ask for financial support or put you on the um put you on a position where now you have a financial commitment. >> Gotcha. I understand that and I appreciate that. Uh Miss Green, the
Let me look at my notes. You said the ounce of prevention dollars only go to nonprofits. So that excludes us. So that Okay. >> Yeah. So you would so you would either have to create a nonprofit or designate >> but you already have your right.
>> So what what is our role? I I guess I should ask um acknowledging that you're that your organization's doing this in the community uh supporting it. >> Yeah. And then the demographics of the community. So basically they want whatever they like if we were in the
city limits they would want the city to say yes Gford has these different issues and even if we were to finance it it wouldn't be enough so there is need for state and additional um ambassadors. >> Gotcha. Gotcha. Commissioner.
>> So, so councelor, you're you're the way you state it now. Uh we are a codifier of the needs in which you want to address. >> Yes. >> Okay. Can you tell me how how much
funding is in the balance? So, so how this initiative works once the county or whatever governing body is over that area says that this is an area that need additional resources the state then provides basically seed money. So
this is how once you get the designation the state will provide seed money to get the programs going. Now the hope is that different partners in our area which is uh where we got our letter of supports different partners understand the program and says yes this is an area
that we're working in already we would love to collaborate with you because every year the state may not give funding but if partners are working together collaboratively it doesn't matter like for instance let's say that we have services in Gford that deals
with um with early learning right We may not have funding for early learning, but we're partnering with safe families. We're partnering with healthy families. So, programming is happening regardless of whether or not pioneering change is getting funding. And so, that's how we
got the buy in from most of the partners. We had over 30 nonprofits to attend and they're all willing to work together. We plan on having provider meetings um every month to discuss services and we're basically a convenor with the services. So whether funding is
coming in or not, um the program will go forward. >> How do you become the overseer? >> Basically, we're yeah, we're the convenor. So we become the people that make sure that everything happens and that we fill in the gaps. And we've already been talking to people about
diversifying um funding with what we're doing. >> And you stated uh seed money. Let's bring it down to sea level about how much do you estimate and what will be the operating factor in
>> so so the seed money is based off the legislature state legislature they decide um how much funding that they're given to the areas that are designated it's a part of um their budget so it may have they may there may be funding for a
year or two then there may not be funding and there may be that's why it's important that we collap collaborate with other organizations to ensure that we don't have duplicated duplicative services. Right? So if there's organizations already doing the work, we're just bringing them together and
bringing them to the residents. >> Okay. Uh so and you know the community uh councelor and we have many 501c3s >> that are producing or addressing the
needs of the community. What differentiates what you your intentions are with this program that would enhance what exists? >> Um streamline services. So right now
different organizations are in the community but during our workshops we learned that they don't have access to the community. Um community members aren't aware of the services being offered and sometimes they don't get the feedback that they need in order to um
make their services better. So that's why we're a convenor because it goes beyond just providing services. We're not trying to provide services that already exist. What we're trying to do is bring those people to the table and ensure that now they're reaching the people that they need to reach. And
another thing that um would be different is that let's say that healthy families can't reach a family or the family missed the appointment. Now you'll have a hub in Gford that can then go to that family's house and find out what's going on. We don't know mom may be in crisis.
But by having this extra hand and extra support, we can then ensure that the kids get what they need regardless of what their parents are going through. >> And how would you be able to do that? By providing >> um well, one of the things that is in
our uh strategic plan is navigators. So the navigators would be the people who um volunteer to be a part of this program and go out to the community and check on families to ensure that people get the information they need to ensure
that people um are also aware of services being provided. Um they will also help folks fill out applications or apply for services. That's another u feedback that we got during our workshop was that a lot of people don't know about services and then they don't know
how to attain them. So we'll work to ensure that that happens. >> Annually, uh, as you know, um, there are 501c3s who seek grant funding through children's services, >> right?
>> U, would you foresee your this organization, if accomplished, uh, being a participant in that granting process? um if I would say if it's something that fits what we're already doing uh
absolutely um applying for it but if there's some another organization already doing the work more than likely we would just support that organization and maximize the capacity ensure that they also serve us in the ger area. Okay,
>> because that's what we talked about having monthly provider meetings where everyone all the providers know what everyone else is doing because that's not happening right now. There isn't communication between those different organizations, but also having warm transfers for families. So families may
come to us and they're looking for a certain service. um we know who provided, we refer them to them, but not before calling that organization, telling them the situation and setting up an appointment for the family. So, it'll kind of help with ensuring that
different um residents and families know about services [clears throat] without having to go to three, four, five different organizations to get what they need. It >> It's your intention to have an office of operations. >> Yes. And has that been determined or foreseen
yet? >> Uh we are we have been um in the process of discussing possible locations. >> Do you have any thoughts on that? >> Um I don't want to show my hand [laughter] uh with that just yet.
>> This is the best time to do it, >> but but yes, but but there are um possible locations that will be willing to donate space for us. Would they be a county facility or a private facility? >> Uh, probably private.
>> Probably private. >> Yeah, more than likely. >> Well, we've got we've gotten the most um the most uh I'll say the most interest with wanting to provide a facility for us from private entities.
>> Okay. Commissioners, before us today is a question to support in resolution or not. I don't want to get too far in the weeds if we had our boys and girls or softball teams or basketball teams that wanted our support via resolution. We wouldn't be asking
them what's their playoff schedule, what what are their plans. We would be saying are we going to resolve to support them? Yes or no. >> So >> what they do in their other finite business, that's their business. We're here to decide to support them by resolution or by letter of intent.
>> Correct. And Mr. Chairman, thank you uh for adding that. But >> uh you know, when we're looking at the two different pathways, there are concerns about involvement, setting up committee, setting up um over
oversight, and a location of operations, which might be not appropriate for and that's why I asked those questions. It might not be appropriate to do something that may
appear to be a general conflict. >> I would like to see this >> in other words imply right imply that we would that we're supporting them financially. I got you. >> Right. And and exactly or have an office of operations or have uh a a county team
or a committee uh that >> we we do plan to um create like advisory committee and would want uh one of you to serve on it if you're willing. >> Well, that that's different than setting up >> that's different. >> Another county committee,
>> right? That's well we don't support I mean we don't we're not on a committee for the softball league and the soccer league right >> so I'm against you know you can ask but we we're not in a position to tie our people up >> supporting you know different nonprofits throughout the community that's my
thought >> and chairman Susan wants to say something and then I'm going to I'm going to add to this conversation >> I I have a couple of questions um because I think a little bit of what is being asked has been clarified by Miss Green correct Correct.
>> Okay. By my screen. Um, so it looks like what she's asking for is for the second path, um, which is 14B under the Florida statute. That one, um, requires the department shall contract with a
notfor-profit corporation um, to work in collaboration with the governing body >> to adopt the resolution described in subsection 4. Do you have a copy of the contract that you've entered into with the department? >> No.
>> Okay. >> With what department? >> With the Department of Children and Families. Underneath 14B, it says to implement this section of the Florida's Children's Initiatives listed in the section. The department shall contract with a notfor-profit corporation to work
collaboratively with the governing body to adopt the resolution. So, it looks like the the entity, the nonforprofit that's supposed to be working with us is supposed to be one that's contracted with the Department of Children and Families. So, that's why I asked if you have that if you could please provide it
to us. >> No, we're um we're doing an application to ounce of prevention like that. It's it's basically the same way as you all would. The only difference is that we're
the nonprofit instead of the county. And I I'm a I'm a little surprised that uh you all didn't have the conversation with Wendy because I think it would have cleared up a lot of what is being discussed today because the only thing that we're missing like if you look at
as prevention where it says applying the only thing we're missing is the resolution. We have everything else created >> for our application to be submitted. >> I think we did try to speak with Wendy multiple times, but Wendy
>> apparently was not available. And I I understand she was in the office but just couldn't call back or email for whatever reason. So I don't know. >> Yeah. cuz the one time >> I don't know what conversation she had with you but she hasn't >> um just earlier she talked to me earlier
in the week and said and I told her that you all would be reaching out to get some clarification and >> I can tell you we did but all I can do miss is I can only read the statute and as it says and as it provides and I can only read the um the website. So, we did
go to the website. We did look we looked at the requirements and so that's why I'm asking these questions because since Miss Wendy Winnie I'm not sure um didn't answer unfortunately I have to ask these questions of you now because I have to
give guidance to them as to what they would be required to do under the statute and under the statute it says that we're to contract that we're to work with a nonforprofit that's contracted with the corp. These are the two avenues. Either a you work with a nonforprofit that's contracted with DCF
to establish a resolution and um or or the other method is for the county to apply. I don't see a method in the statute that says where a nonforprofit would apply. It only says either or. And I think that's what I'm trying to
understand. >> Okay. So, can I say this to the board? Right. because the CERN the concern is being responsible right for finances or any of that. Can you put in your resolution that that you're not responsible because
basically like you said that you have done a resolution for little league or whatever. Um cuz >> we we know that the program is needed. We're we're not asking you for funding. Um, we just want to be able to submit
our application. Uh, it's very unfortunate that you did not have the opportunity to speak with Wendy, uh, Winnie, but at the same time, we have done the work for this and and we just need a resolution that
does not obligate you to anything. um just basically saying that this area is an area that meets the criteria for the for the statute. >> Let me ask you this question because I think um resolution versus letter of
support maybe in different people's mind implies different things. >> Is it possible instead of a resolution that there is a letter of support for your application? So basically she um when I spoke to her before we had the
last meeting um it was if we did not have a resolution then our application wouldn't be accepted. So all of the other um Florida Children's Initiative the governing body did do a resolution for
them and so there are seven >> uh of the other areas. So I think in and the resolution I think we're getting usually when we're recognizing someone um I think we're talking about the chair when he's mentioning little leagues and
baseballs and stuff those usually what we're recognizing then they don't have a statutory framework. This one does have a statutory framework and it does say that under 4A adopts a resolution that and it has specific criteria that the resolution has to have in it. And it
says finds that an area exists in such a county or municipality or in the county or one or more municipalities that chronically exhibits extreme and unacceptable levels of poverty, unemployment, physical deterioration, as well as limited access to quality
educational health care and social services. determines that the rehabilitation, conservation, or redevelopment of a com or a combination thereof the area is necessary for improving the health, wellness, education, living conditions, and livelihoods of the
children and families who live in the county municipalities. Three determines that the revitalization of the area can occur only if this state and a private sector invest resources to improve infrastructure and the provision of services and B establishes a planning
team as provided in subsection 5 and C develops and adopts a strategic community plan as provided in subsection 6 and D identifies or creates a non-for-profit corporation as provided in subsection 7. That's all the stuff that's required by this statute to be in
that resolution. So, if what you're seeking is something of just support, it would have to be a letter and not the resolution. Because in looking at, give me one second. In looking at subsection B that it says we have to establish a planning team as provided in subsection 5. If you look back down at subsection
five again, it says after the governing body adopts the resolution described in subsection four, the county or municipality shall establish the team, not the not the nonforprofit. It puts the onus on the county.
So I do we do have a contract with DCF um because our sponsors was ounce of prevention and department of children and families. So to get the planning grant we signed the contract but my communication was with ounce of pres
prevention um fund of Florida which is why I said no. thinking back to all of our flyers had to have sponsored by prevention and department of children and families. So I can send over the contract that we signed with prevention.
>> Okay, >> if I could interject, I was going to bring that point up because we had seed money. They gave us money up front and a contract. She keeps hopping on this committee that the committees have already been done. We have the planning
committee. We've done the strategic plan. We've done the workshops. We've met uh and one of the commissioners was in the meetings. A lot of the people in this room were in those meetings. We're not trying to reinvent the wheel. We're trying to support the wheel. Once were a
impoverished, underresourced community of color come to you to help to allow you to help us help ourselves. We're not begging. We want the opportunity to increase what is being done. As the uh administrator said last time, the Alice
process is all over this. For you to indiscriminately say, well, because of technicalities, you keep going back to the first part. The second track is what we're doing, not the first track. And that part, do we have a
contract? Yes, we have a contract. I was concerned that Wendy didn't speak with you all, but she all over the place not making excuses, but we're standing before you and as uh Commissioner Fletcher was asking, how can we
give you those answers and we don't even have the designation. We cannot tell you we have a building. We cannot tell you we have a budget. We cannot tell you we have all these things, the nuances associated with a successful uh project
if we've not been designated. We have 30ome letters of support from nonprofits. We have the community buy in. We have a lot of buyin to this process only. However you can define it, we need
something for the county to say this is relevant. This is needed. These [clears throat] people deserve a chance to help them help themselves. Not begging, not pleading, but coming to you as a governing body that sits over us and the coffers of our
communities asking you not for money. We're not asking for money. We're not asking for you to put a committee. We're not asking you to give us workers. We're asking you to do a document that says these people are looking at something
that's worthwhile that can enhance our community, that can make our community better. When you look at the school district and you get all these false numbers where the graduation rate is for African-Americans is at 94% in our community, that's a joke.
When you saying that they're doing this right now, our kids are are signing up because they're uninformed. SESAC is doing good work, but you ask the question about why they are not it's called trust.
Commissioner man, as a fireman, do you remember the year when the hurricane hit Fails Mayor and you all took all those care packages out there and nobody would come and get them? And when y'all started to leave, the people start coming out to get the stuff. Trust factor. this organization we are doing
can put a trust factor into the process which going to enhance SESAC. It's going to enhance the school district. It's going to enhance everybody. Dr. Moore said, "Boy, if y'all pull this off, you'll keep me out of a lot of trouble. Everybody sees this, but we're
not getting all the nuances of why it can't work." Somebody sitting up there, please tell me why it can work. If there's a problem, as Michon said, we don't want to obligate you. No. And I was commissioner Laura, we don't want
you on our committees. We got enough people in this room and enough people who've been a part of the process that we can get them to serve on our committees. But when you keep saying that we got to do this, we've done it. Why would the state give us the money
to do what we've done without a contract? M miss you wouldn't have done that, would you? >> Well, I just want to ask one question. I got two two comments. One is in the resolution, it it it states that you're
actually applying for a planning grant. >> And I is that >> Well, that was incorrect. We already have the planning grant. >> So, that just needs to be stricken. >> Yeah. We already have. And then the the other thing related to what you're saying because I did read all the information you sent me and you had a lot of presentations and it had a lot of
the data and stuff like that. The resolution has it. So to the to your point and I and I think yours uh councelor uh green so you have all the items that relate to the submitting the request. >> Yeah. The budget and everything we had
to create um all that. So so I've done the entire application >> the resolution. We have the boundary lines you're using different for community >> uh the description of social economic challenges kind of discussed in here as well as your presentations
>> the the I'm assuming you have the roster of the planning team that meet the requirements at half or at least >> members of the the area the roster of the work groups name addresses and all that other stuff you have all that >> I mean because we want it to be successful I think that's what the board
wants we want it to be successful and the way the statute reads it says the county drives the process and even in absent that the department does with a nonprofit then to come to the county and work. So we wanted to be successful. So then you mentioned the budget and I'm
sure corporate bylaws and the policies and procedures and then the letters of support you mentioned 30 of them and then the statement of financial need. >> Yes. So if if you were to strike the one provision I think about the >> planning
>> the planning grant at the end you're it's saying you're going to be resolved the county recommends and supports the application on behalf and then section two the supports the application as written to improve the conditions it doesn't obligate I don't believe that
the to the to the extent that may be concerned >> and we also took took basically most of the language from the city of Pompo Beach. Um Broward, one of Broward's nonprofits put in the application and
then they did the work and >> we just couldn't find that in the statute and or on the ounce of prevention website >> which I know they would did it independently and I did it independently and I couldn't find this alternate track that said a the nonforprofit can be the to the can be the the person that
convenes everybody. It actually describes even in under the 14B that the not for-profit working with the department would collaborate with the county government and then go do the rest of the process together. So that that that's I understand you all did the
process up front and it and it's I think we said before it was unique. You kind of we might be backing into it if possible, but we just want to make sure that if whatever we do, I'm assuming that it's going to be received appropriately and not like y'all didn't follow the process correctly. Right. I
understand. >> That's the concern. >> Yeah. And that's why I was hoping that you all would have had the conversation. So, I apologize for that not happen happening because this would that would make this meeting like 10 minutes top. >> Correct. >> That's okay. >> Well, it's unfortunate for you guys. I
mean, I would hope that the ounce of prevention fund would be providing more support for you in the future as you work through this. For sure. >> Came to meet us. That's why it's strange that she didn't respond. She drove all the way here to meet with us.
>> Well, they are in the process of moving from one building to another, which um may be a part of the reason why they couldn't contact them. Like the um department is moving to an entire different building. So, >> and for the our administrator,
everything we did had to show the zip codes. She was added on the question. I was just asking make sure that the everything is ready to >> Yeah, because tomorrow is the deadline. So, I had to have the application done already in hopes that we would get a yes
today. >> Commissioner Flesher, >> Mr. Chairman, thank you. I I know commissioner airman was looking but uh >> didn't say >> I I just want to say that uh my questioning uh to councelor was once
again this is an element of public trust for the benefit of the community the citizens the citizens that will be served by such a program. In that respect, total transparency
is of premium importance. So I I ask these questions because they were not vetted out and I want to ensure that the public understands what's about to occur. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, uh again, I didn't need the
physical address of where the headquarters was going to be. I wasn't looking for all of that. I just don't want anybody to steal our possibilities. >> In fact, [laughter] >> if you're going to set up something that the county wasn't setting up a building
that we're not doing this and duplicating efforts as opposed to enhancing the efforts, that's a whole different ball game. >> I mean, if you guys want to give us space, we're welcome to that, too. >> Well, maybe we opened up uh >> and I'll close with this >> another window, but I I just wanted to
explain that >> you you mentioned transparency. two people uh that sit up there that we addressed initially with this. We would not put them in a compromising position. We were doing this by the book. It was
open. It was transparent. We had rooms full of people. The process was according to what we were told, >> right? >> We did it. And we kept saying, "We're not reinventing the wheel. We're enhancing the wheel." There is some
people in our community that are nomads. None of these organizations that SEESAC fund and others fund get their attention. You drive by Gford and you don't see what we see that there's a need. the
hours that Michan, she drags me along, but you would be astonished at the number of hours she's put into this. 2:00 in the morning, we having conversations. Early in the morning, 7:00, we're having
conversations on the phone, how to do this, how we see this, how we work this. This is important to us, especially to me because I want to see something change. We see little increments But this can be major and it can come
back to show you as superstars when the work that Michon is willing to do gets done and it enhances our community. That's my >> and I just like to add that it is cradle to career. So um out of all the different areas, there's really no um
municipality doing this work outside of Orlando. everyone else um has a nonprofit that does the work because it's from um early learning, early development all the way to um careers.
So, it it is going to take a lot to get it done. And that's why Tony is saying like it's going to be so impactful because it is, which is why we're not trying to duplicate services and we're trying to bring everyone to the table because it's cradle to career and we know one organization can't do this
work. But if we come together, we maximize resources, we can all work together to have collective impact. >> Okay. Question, Mr. >> Who is the established who who is going to be the existing or qualified nonprofit?
>> Um, so Pioneer and Change Incorporated. >> Okay. >> Which I I serve as the executive director. >> Okay. So that's a nonprofit or says are you created nonprofit corporation, etc., etc. Let me I got to I got to simplify this for me a little bit.
It says adopt a resolution. We've also talked about a letter of support, but here I'm the state statute says clearly adopt a resolution to find that an area exist in a county or municipality. Okay, we know that is we we're good with that. And then then it goes to the next one. Determines the revitalization currently
occur if the state or private sector invest resources to approve. And that means you establish a planning team. You develop an and adopt a strategic community plan. You identify or create a nonprofit corporation is identified in the subsection. >> Yeah.
>> So we got the we know about those. Okay. Listen to me on that. Then you go to the Florida Children's Initiative Plan after the governing body adopts a resolution described as subsection 4. They establish a working group and they develop objectives to identify the
strategies or focus area. And there's numerous of we all know what those can be. Everything from child care to sports to athletics to going to college, whatever, whatever you want, whatever you want it to be. So it keeps going down the list. It says after the governing body here, it's again it's
clear again that after a governing body adopts a resolution described in subsection 4 establishes a planning team provided in subsection 5 and develops and adopts strategic plan is provided in subsection six. The county municipality
shall either identify an existing qualified nonprofit corporation or create a nonprofit corporation that is registered etc etc and then they will begin to transfer the responsibility for the planning from the planning team to
that corporation begin the implementation and governance of the strategic plan and update the strategic plan every five years and the requirements for state funding and this is where we why we're We've been talking about this. We want to get this right. Especially with what could happen in the
near future about state plan, about money you given from the state. Everything's got to be accounted for because I've already warned some of the people out there that that are funded strictly by adorum. They say, "Well, the state will take care of us." Well, we all know the state will take care of
from you to take care of us, but there's going to be restrictions on that money and how you're going to spend it and how you're going to do it. So we want to make sure that this is this is done correctly. So so the initiives must be awarded through a performance-based contract that links
payments to the achievement and outcomes directly related to goals, objectives, and strategies outlined in the strategic community plan. The other thing I don't want to do is duplicate services. I'm sorry whether you like them or not. We got SEESAC here. We got director
sitting right back there. We do it every day. >> Yeah. But do but do you guys also so the difference with SESAC is that they just give money right basically. So for this do they do cradle to career um services? Do they do convenings where
they bring all of the providers from whatever area is being served, for instance, Gford to one room and ensure that those providers are able to reach the residents and that the residents are aware of what those providers provide because that's the difference with this.
This is more concentrated. instead of it being um an entire county, you choose a small area that's impacted and then you bring everyone who's bringing services to that area to ensure that they're working together to meet the needs of
that area, right? And it's very um resident driven, right? So the requirements is that the residents are the ones um that come up with the strategic plan, that the residents have the feedback, that the residents are heard. And so that's what makes it
different as opposed to any other um program out there. >> Okay. So what what I'm saying is is that I don't I I agree with you. It should be and it should be controlled by those
people. These ideas should come from the people in that community that want to see a change and want to be see a difference and that's where the money should go and it should be done in the right way and it should be accountable and transparent as we all know. So
again we it says it has to go to an identified existing qualified or you all already have already established that. >> Yes. So we have a strategic plan everything the whole application is actually >> okay because for us to do for us to be involved in if it's just a resolution I'm I'd like to hear what my other
fellow commissioner say or let her support whatever works but there's still stuff that has to be followed. I think the the county attorney mentioned that and I've repeated it because I wanted to make sure I could facilitate it in this small brain of mine of how how it's
going to work. Um, I just see as a I I mean Cindy can come up here and say this for me, but you don't have to. But we work with the United Way. We work with all of them. I don't want to reinvent
the wheel if we don't have to. We have people that are already up and running and and doing this. Commissioner, >> but but what you're you're looking at it as just a financeier. This is a convenor. Like there may not be any
money coming from the state. So is the United Way going to still be in Gford ensuring that providers are meeting when parents aren't showing up for appointments? Are United Way going to go to those homes and talk to those parents when there's trust needed to be built?
is the United Way going to go doortodoor to talk to different families to ensure that they understand that hey we're trying to do this in the area so we really need you to come out to meetings or better yet we'll come to you like are they going to go to them because that's the difference like a lot of people get
focused on the money but this is not a getrichqu scheme like the one thing this lady from the state told us there may be years that no funding comes in but it is our job to care about this community and to meet with those providing different
services to ensure that families still receive the service that they require. And so when it comes to saying reinvent the wheel, there's no more people in these people in this room who has a heart for Gford and is going to ensure that giver
succeeds regardless if there's a dollar coming in or not. And so that's what sets us apart. That's what makes us different. And I wanted to say I've been on this is my fourth year going into SEESAC >> and I've been dedicated to it.
>> But I said we are not in reinventing the wheel. We are supporting the wheel. We have nuances in our community Mr. Man that Seesac or none of those pro non forprofits will ever see or touch. But Michan and I can. Some of these people
in the audience can. These are the nomads I spoke of who don't trust, who don't believe in government, who will sit on idly and suffer because there is a lack of trust. Michon, myself, and
others. We have a trust factor. We can go into these people. We won't get caught up in their attitudes. We will be there to help them in spite of themselves. And we keep going into this what the county got to do. If anybody
heard us, everything has been done. The only thing we were waiting on was a resolution from the county. We didn't need none of this other stuff because they gave us money to do it. They gave
us the money to do the workshops. They gave us the money to do the surveys. They gave us all of that that we have done. a piece of paper with commissioner's signature on it. We said resolution. We finding out all this resolution. I would
ask one question. If you take to the attorney, if you take track two, what is the county obligated to? >> Okay. So, >> I can Sorry. Go ahead, Commissioner. >> If I can just try to like
get us out of the weeds a little bit. Um the resolution that's in front of us, we can agree that the whereas clause on page two that starts at whereas pioneering
change is applying for a planning grant that we can we can take that out. >> So we're applying for the designation. >> Okay. So we can because I think it says that >> um and the next where are this? Yeah, it says like three whereases later that
you're applying for the designation. So, we can take the whereas out that says planning grant. >> Yes. >> Can we in order to make everybody maybe have a better level of comfort include a whereas clause that says that the resolution um is meant for support for
the application and does not obligate the county to funding future funding or resource allocation. Is that >> Yes. Yeah, that's fine. >> Does that sound okay? >> Yeah. That's the exception. >> So one one one additional whereas we swap it for >> we swap it for that. >> Gotcha.
>> Um and then I think if you look at then down in the resolution like what we're actually resolving to now therefore be it resolved the county hereby recommends and supports the application on behalf of the children and families of the
Gford community. the county supports the application as written to improve conditions for the community. Is there a way if you already have the application done since we're resolving to support that as it's written that you
can provide us with a copy of that just so we have it for everybody's comfort level >> of the application >> after the meeting I can >> yeah that's what I mean not like right this second yes we can maybe get something done contingent upon that >> okay
>> and then um I know you mentioned that you had that contract with DCF and I'm assuming that's part of that application So, so, so basically to get the planning grant, we had to fill out a contract. Okay. And so she told us that the money
is sponsored by Florida Prevention and Department of Children and Families. So that was a >> So maybe if we could just get the application and that >> okay >> and um swap out those whereas clauses then I think that addresses the non-binding
nature of of this. And then I would just say as we as you move forward through this process in the community in the strategic plan, there's already some of these things that are, you know, in the works or will be done probably by the time the legislature decides to
>> probably >> fund stuff. Um, so I would hope that those some type of coordination would continue just because I I know we don't want to reinvent the wheel. Nobody wants to reinvent the wheel, but I think by the nature of how the strategic plan was
done with some of us that are involved in different aspects of the community, >> it's kind of >> I think some of the concern is it appears to be ingrained in there, but I think that's just part of the process. So, as you move through um >> so for the application, we have to list
um like different entities that are partnering with us and that's what we did. So from the workshops, early development workshop, we have the different entities that were there. Um they actually were a part of developing the strategic plan for that area. And
we've all agreed that once we start doing the work, we're going to have monthly meetings of all the providers together to discuss how the work will be done. So So there's definitely going to be collaboration and not duplication of
services. >> Okay. So, I think that um I feel like I had one more question, but it's okay. I think I've covered enough for now. >> Great. >> Well, Commissioner Adams, um [clears throat] thank you for addressing
the many concerns that I heard throughout our discussion and uh with you and counsel. Thank you uh for uh your responses. Really appreciate it. I wanted to ask the uh attorney
>> uh you you heard all of the changes and do you think that that would fully address the criteria for a resolution? >> Sorry, please forgive me. I'm trying to find the section again.
I And I want to make this abundantly clear that this is based off of the 14B, the secondary subsection which the entity claims that they are applying or have applied under. Um that does not erase the resolution requirements that are in
subsection 4A. nor does it erase the Florida Children's Initiative Planning Team requirements under subsection five. And um subsection five, Florida initiative planning requirements still requires even under this once a
resolution is passed that the county or municipality shall establish the Florida Children's Initiative Planning. So, even if we were to sit here and say in the resolution that we aren't liable for anything pursuant to Florida statute, the county still, it says shall, it's
not a may, it's a shall um establish a Florida Children's Initiative planning team. And that is under the 14B, the secondary um and under which you said that you applied. Um, so it's still the same um, under
the resolution as far as the language. So that's my concern with that. As far as the language and the resolution, um, I don't know that that would meet the requirements for the resolution under subsection 4. Um,
but if the board wants to establish support, we can most definitely establish support, but I don't think So it still says we shall establish. >> We're being directed to by the election. >> If you want to, if you're thinking about
it, it says shall. >> So even if they have a committee and planning >> program and strategic plan, uh that would be uh great to have, but we would
have to have our own planning. Well, I mean, I guess >> it would have been best described that we're doing this post de facto. We're doing it after the fact, adopting the resolution. If if this resolution works for you, then you'll be able to proceed.
If not, you'll >> because we'd like to see something like this happen, come back and we'll go through the process statutoily. >> Yes. Well, that I think that's part of my point is that I cannot necessarily say that this
will meet the legal requirements because it I I cannot say that underneath the Florida statute and the plain language of the statute. I mean it appears that this program will have great potential in assisting
uh those individuals who are marginalized or not getting the services because there's a lack of awareness, participation, trust and understanding and
communication. Yeah, I get it. Yeah, >> this this sounds great and it it does have great potential. >> Just concerned as to what we can do >> uh following the guidelines to ensure it
happens. So >> So >> Miss Green and council, I just want to ask you one other question. Sorry, Miss Green. Uh if if we were to do the letter of support that would not satisfy the
requirement to have this program enabled or move forward for consideration. >> No. Um it requires a um a resolution from >> requires the word resolution >> says resolution. >> Yes ma'am. Good afternoon. Name and
record for the address for the record. [clears throat] My name is Valerie Brandt Wilson and I'm on her on the board. May I address the attorney to ask a question? >> Yes, ma'am. And my question based on the statute
that you have is dealing with section 4 Florida charter initi initiative nominating process where you say a county or m municipality or a county and one or more municipalities together may apply
since just based on the discussion it appears that you feel that you're at the back end instead of at the front end. Am I correct? >> I >> Yeah, that'd be true. >> I don't know about >> I don't know. >> No, that that that's No, yeah, I think
it is true because you're what we're saying is what the statute's saying is that you the county municipality adopts a resolution and then does everything else working with the planning team. So yes, we're being asked that's what I meant by postacto after the fact. So
we're but yes, >> so may I ask and I have not spoken to both and I don't want them mad with me. So may I ask this question? Since the work has been done
and you backtrack the application as if you had already given pioneer change an opportunity to do the work that has already be done. Could this board
agree to that? I I think her question is since Pioneer's already gotten the planning grant, maybe I'm not understanding, but I think she's asking that since they've already done that, now we come in in the in the
>> as if you had you had initially told them to do it. >> We we haven't initially told him anything. >> I know. I know. And I don't want you to lie, but I'm just trying to see [laughter] That's where that transparency thing comes in. >> I wanted to make sure
>> that ensure that we are looking at this on the same plane for the public and for the public in need and we are serving the greater good of the community.
>> And yes, agreed there is a need, but some parts of this have already been done. Can we metriculate that and bring it into well yeah that satisfies this that satisfies that might be pushing the
window. >> No counselor. >> Oh how do you how >> well >> well it's asking the county to coach. >> We're asked to develop. We're asked to ensure where we shall >> shall >> we shall that shall word is well I have
to say it to you. >> All right. So, so there and and this is like I say why we wish that the um that you all had opportunity to speak to the person from ounce of prevention who
actually they're the organization that reviews the application and determines whether or not we get the designation and they have more than one route and they only contract with nonprofits. I was hoping that the conversation had
been had so that you would know like in order for us to even qualify for the um grant, the planning grant, we had to do an application and you have to qualify. Which means that if we were not if if we
were not qualified to seek the designation, we would not have gotten money from DCF and ounce of prevention because they they would have denied our application. >> So that's the first step. So, >> and that was the original intention, I
believe, for all of my colleagues, uh, when we deliberated and [snorts] determined that a special call meeting would take place two weeks in advance that there would be ample time for discussion to vet out all of our concerns.
>> It didn't happen, right? >> That's why there's questions today. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And and again, I'm not >> Yeah. Yes. I I agree with that. Commissioner Flesher, one question is >> if you've gotten dollars from DCF for
the planning grant, presumably that did not require a resolution. >> No. So, they give you they give you the planning grant funds based off the application you submit about the area um and the need and then we do the process.
And once we do the process, now the final application for designation requires a resolution. And so from what it was told to me that it needs to be it needs to be as what sorry as what I provided and I also
provided the um city of Pompeo Beach's original one that shows that they supported another nonprofit doing the process as well. >> Right. So, so you've already gotten some state dollars without a resolution, but to go to the next level, I guess is what
I'm hearing, you need a resolution. >> Yeah. For them to say, okay, this is an area that um needs special attention from the state and uh welcomes private funders. They need the >> res kind of asking us to co-sign on
>> Yes. >> on the organization. >> Good afternoon. Uh name and address for the record, please. Good afternoon. My name is Miranda Swanson. I'm the health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Indian River County. Um, all of you know our work in community health
improvement. and what I would like to volunteer on behalf of the county if it's possible to delegate the responsibility for that convening that planning team if needed the health department would be able to be ready and willing to take on
that role um >> in those introductory stages of this and work with pioneering >> not to interrupt you Miranda but they've already convened the planning >> they have indeed but what I'm saying is is that Susan had brought up that this
may still be a requirement. So, and given that we can't receive that clarification before the deadline, I mean, that would be something we would be willing to do if that would help >> if if I may, I think now that I'm listening and you're and just between
the information that Miss Green has stated, um, and I'm sorry, I think I was misunderstanding what she was saying earlier about the planning, it's already been done. If you go on to the actual website for I'm sorry, what's this called again? For the ounce of
prevention fund for Florida, there are two separate AL um applications. You are correct, Miss Green. So, it sounds like it like you guys did the planning application and that you guys got the grant money for the planning application. That was the one-time grant fund. Is that correct? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, then this is a completely
separate application. This separate application is where you guys are now applying for Gford to be designated for the designation for the city. So there are two separate things. So if that's the case, I don't with even more reasoning I
think that then the planning hasn't been done because the planning's been done for the planning designation, not for this designation. >> No. So the planning grant is for you to do the planning and everything for the actual designation.
>> So So the planning grant like I did the application for the planning um grant and so we've already did that but the convening and everything in court of statute is what we did for the actual designation. And so now if you look at all those things all that's completed
the only thing left is the resolution. >> Okay. Good afternoon. Name and address for the record, please. >> Denita Henry, 57 55 57th Avenue Beach.
>> Um, my question is all the work for this has been done. We went to the meetings, we did the planning, you got u 30 nonprofits that's willing to help out. My um question is to understand what is the hesitation
with the um county whether just giving the letter or actually even saying that you want to be a part of helping our community because it's not just our community in the Gipper community. This is the county itself and we sit in the middle as we
call it the hub if you look at the area that we are located in. So, what is the hesitation with saying that you want to see a area grow? because I mean as far as the programs the themselves the other nonprofits they're not in the area or
they come out to be able to support that community specifically where here it is you have people that do not have cars and as far as the buses and you have people that's working at night time where here it is you can't I mean in the daytime where you can't get to those open programs where here it is this is
what is that's being offered to the people in that area. So, if you have people that do not have cars, you have single parents that's working late trying to support their household, you have um and they needing to get these services or even to understand that they're there. We don't have those type
of programs that's actually in that area to say yes, it's supporting this area. It's it's it's accessible. All the if you look at the addresses themselves of all the nonprofits, they're not in the Gford area. They're I mean I mean they're in
What? Vero, South Vro by 95. You know, even Fails has something. But as far as the Gford area, it does not. We used to have a um what it was for the one source. They used to have a mobile bus. We don't they we don't even have that.
I've had a family member had to go all the way to Port the um um St. Lucy County just to access and they they give them the runaround. So my question is what is it where here it is you're acting we're asking we're asking you to
come aboard instead of being so divided in this city where we coming aboard and being together to make sure that our community our county survives everything else is going on where it is they're actually taking the local government's funding and if we can't support our own
communities what are we going to do? Well, first of all, let me correct you. Um, that's not true. Each and every one of us support not only the entire county, but the Gford community. I'm pretty sure we all have a track record of doing that. Second thing is this
resolution is not a typical resolution. This is more of an agreement. Uh, we typically do not hear resolutions that have language like shall included in them. this uh really is is a sounds like to me an agreement
uh with pioneering in addition to a resolution and that's the big difference and please understand that seems to be some of the the resistance or hesitation that we have
>> not it's not lost on me about uh the >> and I'm trying >> the future of the the future of the the finances of the state and the county. But we have to keep that in mind. We have to be mindful of 170,000 people in
our community and not so to speak uh encumber ourselves or put ourselves [snorts] in a position where we may not be able to hold our end of the bargain. Uh so please don't think that it's not it's nothing against the
Gford community by far. No, I'm not what I'm not saying as far as being a gift a part of the GIF community. I'm saying of being becoming into, you know what I'm saying? I mean, they have the the stuff that's going on at the GIF community center, right? >> But the GIF community center can only
help so many families as far as just say the after school program, they can only help so many, >> right? >> But if you have a program that's there in the community that's willing to go out doortodoor, you know what I'm saying? whether it's in the morning time or it's in the evening time, you know,
from the kids from from the newborn all the way to the the parents themselves helping them support their kids as well as educate themselves and, you know, get them into um training for work. >> You know, >> we we understand what you're saying. We
understand what you're describing specifically uh for the community. Today we're voting up or down a resolution. Uh we've already established that a letter of acknowledgement or or a statement of acknowledgement to support
is not acceptable pursuant to the next level of the grant. So it is this body's task today to either vote up or down this particular resolution. Uh the
concerns have been in addition to needing the resolution and our general counsel has described within those things are certain requirements that the county has to essentially contract into with the terms
like shall. So that's where this hesitation is. And if this was like I said before a regular resolution, this is more than a resolution. Um, you know, and I I I don't know the direction that the board wants to go.
>> Obviously, I hate to repeat myself, but a letter is not going to work. So, it's either resolution or not. >> So, who would like to bring this in for a landing? >> I need my suggestions. We have Commissioner Adams suggestion about changing the language which is kind of
basically words smmithing the the preamble of the proclamation. Um Mr. Administrator would anything other uh appear to have the county co-signing if you will on this
>> the agreement that they would hopefully successfully obtain. What I would recommend in addition to the whereas clause that Commissioner Adams offered besides the the deletion of the other one is on the the second to last page is
just stopping the word at county whereas guiding children out of poverty in the Gford community must be supported by actions and resource investments to improve and the pro uh and infrastructure and the provision services within the county because then it talks about the partnership thing
that you're that The concern of the board is is locking itself into something that it may not be able to fund depending on the future landscape of fiscal or uh local government finance. >> Okay. Can we remove that whereas clause?
>> Oh, I don't I don't think >> it's right above the where it says whereas pioneering change will apply for the Florida Children's Initiative. >> I don't think it changes the spirit and intent of what you're trying to accomplish, >> but I think it would further clarify that I agree with
>> there's no obligation other than supporting the application. >> Yes. >> Right. And and who knows, Miss Green, it could be something as simple as when they go over your checklist, you know, they say, "Well, there's the resolution. On to the next level." We may be hyper
sensitive to this process and not needing to be. >> Good afternoon. Name and address for the record. >> Good afternoon. John Kirkland 1920 Highway 81A Vero Beach. >> Good afternoon, Mr. Kirkland. >> I thought maybe I could give you guys some clarity just because I was sitting
back there and reading the statutes and I was a lawyer for 50 years. Um the June 30 deadline is the end of the fiscal year. So the funds have to be spent by June 30. So that's the reason they want you to do it today. >> That would be the state fiscal. >> Yes, the state fiscal year. So the the funds under the program have to be spent
by June 30 or it rolls over to the next year. And the implication is they have the funds for this year. So if you submit it by June 30, you'll get the money. That's not >> that's not how it works. Mr. >> There is a It's not been approved yet, the budget, but there's a $ 1.9 million appropriation.
>> The budget gets signed today. It was signed today. >> Yeah. >> It has to be signed by the 30th for the new facility. >> Well, under the I mean, I'm just going by what the what what the website says. >> It says the funds have to be allocated by June 30. So, the reason they need you
to approve it before June 30th is so that they can allocate the money. >> Well, >> well, that would have Okay, >> but I would if all you want to do is meet their requirements, which it sounds like it, I would just approve the resolution exactly as it's stated. I don't think you need the whereas
clauses. I don't think the shall l >> the clauses are part of the resolution. >> You don't need that. Well, that establishes the pre the everything that it asks you to do in terms of the social and economic challenges that can that
exist in the area. So, you do need those because that's your statement of need. Correct. >> Yes. >> Where I I think all you need to meet the requirement of the statute is the three items listed in the statute and that's >> and one of them is the the statement of need.
>> Yes. those I think you need to adopt the resolution exactly as stated in the statute each of those three things and if you deviate I don't think you meet the requirement but if you adopt those three things I think that's all you have to do I don't think there's any additional requirement so if the goal is to let them meet the requirement
adopting those three things would do it as I read the statute the shall doesn't obligate the county to do anything it just says if you want to have this thing finally designated these are the things you have to do so I don't think just adopting that resolution obligates you to do something. I think adopting the
resolution just says there's a community, it's poor, it needs help, this is a way we can help it. And if you do that, then I think they've got what they need to go to the state and go to the next step in the process. I don't think you're finalizing anything today. You're just taking the next step in the
process. >> And also, by the way, the statute says that the county can get a $30,000 onetime grant to help pay for staff to figure this out. So, you might want to apply for that. >> Where where in the statute is that, sir? Because I've read the statute forward, backwards, and sideways because I'd love
to see that. >> All right. You'd go to the I can if you give me your email address afterward, I'll email it to you. >> Okay. But I just want to make sure and make clear that that's nowhere in this statute, which is the 409. >> I'm sorry, I misspoke. It's not the stat. It's their website. They say they've got a $30,000 one.
>> They've already grant that they've already been awarded to me like the county can get it, too. Well, I don't that would >> Okay, but so not to go down a rabbit hole here, but this is part of the problem with not being able to speak to the people that actually administered
the program for DCF. >> I don't understand why they're not here. That's mindboggling to me, especially since they have a deadline of tomorrow. I don't know why they're >> Thank you, Mr. Kirk. >> Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. Name and address for the record. >> Thank you. Peggy Jones, 15656 Court.
Been in the community about 46 years. First of all, thank you very much for this meeting. Um, I certainly know uh what position you're in and what you do for our county and I I appreciate each and every one of you. My husband and I attended all of the meetings at Gford except one and I can tell you I've been
at thousands of meetings during my life and the dialogue and the conversation and the data given at this meetings was just phenomenal. And it wasn't one of those top- down meetings saying this is what we have to do. No, it was the entire community sitting there. I think the first meeting I went to was 40. Next
or the final meeting was about 70 when we worked on the strategic plan. Um and most of our nonprofits were there. You know, we live in a community that is absolutely exceptional. We have two ladies in this room who work with SEESAC and work with them on a diligent,
you know, just so diligent in what they do. And what we do for our community, I think, is wonderful. And Commissioner Laura, you're right. This is a different resolution. It's a different type. little bit special words on the state statute. But what I do know when you look at the components of this grant
from prek to adult education to health and safety and the data that was given at those meetings on birth rates on death rates if you live in Gford compared to the beach and so forth and being the principal that opened Gford
Middle 67 and 8 in 1995 came very close to this community very tight-knit very um had a true ownership to this community and people in this room were there saying what can we do better? Uh we're not like Mr. Brown has said and
Miss Green has said, we're not looking to um take anyone's place. We're just looking for the giver community and how we can make it better. Um I'm very very proud. I'm speaking as an individual, but our school board was one of the first letters of support and Dr. Moore
looked at this very carefully saying, you know, if this works, this will help us. So, um, Commissioner Adams, thank you for your ideas on the resolution and all the commissioners asking the questions you asked because they're good questions and our lawyer keeping us going along with state statute. I know
how important that is. Go Sharks, but that's another story. [laughter] Um, so whatever you can do today, we appreciate because I can tell you >> these people are ready to work and we have a great um, you know, from old to
young to the um, u Chris Peterson giving us all the data, the supporters there from nonprofits. I saw many many nonprofits there during the meeting. So, whatever you can do, we appreciate it. Thank you. >> Thank you, Doc. We appreciate that. Uh fellow commissioners, you've heard the
uh resolution being uh modified word smith by commissioner Adams and um Bernie Prada. Any discussion? So >> any any further discussion by the
this actually isn't public comment time. Go ahead young fella. >> Name and address. >> Sienna Kirkland uh 1920 A1A. Uh my question was going to be uh can you clarify what approving this resolution would actually commit the county to in terms of resources or future actions?
>> We did. So, I think you're asking what it would what it would bind the county to as far as f resources and future actions. I can only say as far as what the statute says it would do. I'm not sure. I know that there was a plan that was
provided a strategic plan. I'm not sure what in there would require binding items on the county um or not. Um, but at least from the statutory standpoint, it says that the county shall establish
a Florida Children's Initiative planning team. So, it doesn't say how. It doesn't say with whom. It just says we should that the county needs to do that shall do that after the adoption of the resolution.
>> Correct. I would say also under section sorry under section seven and section 8 there are some improvements that are requested and it doesn't clarify by whom and some of them look government in
nature and I think the county is in a position right now just to kind of being obviously wary of future commitments of a a check that's not written and don't know the amal the amount and then we're facing potential potentially different
fiscal landscape in the future. >> Thank you. >> You said section seven where >> and your and your strategic plan I believe it is is what he's looking at. Section seven. If you look at page 28 of 30 I think is where it starts on and
then 29 of 30. Is that what you're looking at John? >> Yeah. There's a number like expanding safe public spaces, recreation, local library access, shelters, and youth programming. >> Sure. >> And we've been going through exercises as it relates to what the future may
look like for county finances and to commit. It does doesn't say who's responsible for that, >> right? So, basically, [clears throat] the entire strategic plan is aspirational. Um, but as I stated initially, we do hope that our work would
prove to the county that, you know, it is impactful and worthy of county support. We do know that you have SESAC um, available if we were to apply for funding, but then also we also have the Progressive Civic League that is over
our development in the community. So when it comes to things like that, we partnership with pro progressive civic league because as again we're not reinventing the wheel, but we're just ensuring that we are now taking a guided
step toward improvement as opposed to um scattered incremental unstreamlined. So >> I I I I think the resolution as modified would doesn't mind the county do a
commitment that cannot you know we don't want to create false expectations. Nobody's saying the county doesn't want to participate. We just don't want to create false expectations that we're going to do certain things that are identified. >> Okay. So what area did you say about
taking out? Um >> it it's under the the the second to last recital whereas guiding children out of poverty in the Gford community must be supported by actions and resources resource investments to improve infrastructure and the provision of
services within the county. And then just put the semicolon and and then go to the going on to the next one. >> Yeah. Well, I think that's because that's the need right there, right? That's >> that you're expressing the need, but but the in the partnership with local and
state and private sectors, the local the local sector is us, not the private sector. And then you also have the state. >> Okay. So, you're saying that you guys don't so you guys don't invest in Gford at all already?
>> I didn't say that. Yeah, because that because basically if we look at the statute, it's basically saying this designation is needed because giving even investing locally only it does not
provide enough investment to come out of the state that it's in. So it is necessary that state and private investors are now supporting this area. If we remove this, it's saying that one,
you all don't provide at all and that our need is not necessary for a giver because I I mean >> local. >> So if we can just remove Miss Green, I don't believe that's what the statute says. Again, that's if you can remove local. What it's saying is that the the
resolution you have to find that that area is so chronically um exhibits extreme and unacceptable levels of poverty. And it's the designation that you get state and private sector. That's subsection 4 A3
determines that the revitalization of an area can occur only if the state and the private sector. It says nothing about local. Right. So that's why I think we're asking that if you at least remove you're right you don't have to remove all of it but at least remove the word in partnership and then with take out
with and then just take out the word local and it would be with state and private sectors because that achieves what it is you need for the for the actual statute because that's what it says if only it says can occur only if the state and private sector invest doesn't say local it says state and
private sector >> right and so the application says that these this area is applying for designation because local support alone will not right is not sufficient and that that was my point of deleting that
all together then >> it's it's moved but >> thank you point so just local thank you Susan >> okay >> Mr. Commission, >> you happy with that? Council, [clears throat] [snorts]
>> I I don't think I don't want anybody get the wrong idea that we're not for for this or for for making sure that if we can get some, you know, help through this initiative to the community Gford that we're not we're not for. We're
absolutely I think all of us support that. Again, I think Commissioner Lure or Chairman Lure made a good thing. It's just this this resolution should it probably been easier if it was just a contract instead of instead of a resolution as to as to what we wanted to
do. But, you know, to me to to move this thing forward and get going so everybody's at peace. My my thing was I didn't want to reinvent the wheel if the wheel is already out there. That was why I asked the questions I had. But with that, I think it's fair to to change to
follow what Commissioner Adams said to go with that. So, if it if it needs to be a motion, I'd defer to Commissioner Adams if she already made one. I may have missed it. >> I did I I did not I was just making suggested changes to the resolution to see where everybody was. So,
>> yeah, that wasn't a motion by her. >> That wasn't Oh, I didn't have that. That's why I was asking. Do you want to make it one? Oh, she's inviting you. >> You're inviting me to make a motion. [laughter] >> I mean, you came up with the idea. I don't want to steal your thunder.
>> I love to share my thunder. You're totally fine to do it. But no, I'll be I'll be happy to um make a motion to support the resolution as amended. With those changes, do we
need to list them again? Elimination of the recital related to applying for the planning grant and then also removing the word local from the second to last recital and then and then adding a new recital about not obligating or binding
the county for future funding. >> Second. >> We have a motion. We have a second. Any further discussion? >> I I do just have one question or ask um followup for Miss Green. Can you just when you're done submitting
send those documents to us just so we have it. And I think we would still staff would still like the opportunity to speak with um Winnie. Yeah. >> If we can track her down once they finish moving. >> Other than that, yes, that's where I'm at. >> Thank you. We have a motion. We have a
second hearing. No other discussions. All in favor? >> I. And the motion carries 40 with Commissioner Moss being absent. Thank you ladies and gentlemen for being here. The time is 2:37. This meeting is adjourned.