Item T3 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
County of Monroe � 7=11, Mayor Sylvia J.Murphy,District 5
The Florida Keys ;4h,T- r Mayor Pro Tem Danny L.Kolhage,District 1
y �i Michelle Coldiron,District 2
Heather Carruthers,District 3
David Rice,District 4
Commissioner David P.Rice , . 0
9400 Overseas Hwy., Suite 210
Florida Keys Marathon Airport Main Terminal
Marathon, FL 33050
Boccdis4@monroecounty-fl.gov
• 305-289-6000
Interoffice Memorandum
•
Date: August 22,2019
To: Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Court
County Clerk's Office
From: Commissioner David Rice, District 4 /1/4,745e-X-----
RE: NOTICE OF VOTING CONFLICT
• Per Florida Statute 112.3143, I hereby disclose by written memorandum that I will
abstain from the vote on certain issues brought before the Monroe County Board of •
Commissioners with entities with which I am involved.
I will abstain from the vote on issues concerning the following entities:
Guidance Care Center,Inc., a private,not-for-profit entity,which receives some of its
.operational funding from the County,as I currently sit on the Board of Directors of the
Guidance Care Center. I am also a member of the Board of the Historic Florida Keys
Foundation,Inc.
At the August 21,2019 BOCC meeting,I abstained from the vote on item(s):
#T-3
Copy of agenda item listing from the Revised Agenda for each of the referenced item(s)is included for
documentation.
ATT: State Form 8B Memorandum of Voting Conflict for County,Municipal,and Other Local Elected
Officers
FORM 8B MEMORANDUM OF VOTING CONFLICT FOR
COUNTY, MUNICIPAL, AND OTHER LOCAL PUBLIC OFFICERS
LAST NAME—FIRST NAME—MIDDLE NAME NAME OF BOARD,COUNCIL,C MMISSION,AUTHORI 0 COMMITTEE
T-
tr C-E DAvio P YA E rnonrva-�'ovaisv LoarcL o` commi ss(o0
MAILING ADDRESS THE THE BOARD,COUNCIL,COMMIION,AUTHORITY OR COMMITTEE ON
3.3 //' 'o no L c rd. Lu . WHICH I SERVE IS A UNIT F: Li
CITY COUNTY 0 CITY COUNTY 0 OTHER LOCAL AGENCY
r(1 alra9-kan Yla rt r a9-- NAME OF POLITICAL SU�,BDIVISII N:
DATE ON WHICH VOTE OCCURRED ! �� �aQ- �-CJU
MY POSITION IS:
)iCELECTIVE 0 APPOINTIVE
WHO MUST FILE FORM 8B
This form is for use by any person serving at the county, city, or other local level of government on an appointed or elected board, council,
commission, authority, or committee. It applies to members of advisory and non-advisory bodies who are presented with a voting conflict of
interest under Section 112.3143, Florida Statutes.
Your responsibilities under the law when faced with voting on a measure in which you have a conflict of interest will vary greatly depending
on whether you hold an elective or appointive position. For this reason, please pay close attention to the instructions on this form before
completing and filing the form.
•
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 112.3143, FLORIDA STATUTES
A person holding elective or appointive county, municipal, or other local public office MUST ABSTAIN from voting on a measure which
would inure to his or her special private gain or loss. Each elected or appointed local officer also MUST ABSTAIN from knowingly voting on
a measure which would inure to the special gain or loss of a principal (other than a government agency) by whom he or she is retained
(including the parent, subsidiary, or sibling organization of a principal by which he or she is retained);to the special private gain or loss of a
relative;onto the special private gain or loss of a business associate. Commissioners of community redevelopment agencies(CRAs) under
Sec. 163.356 or 163.357, F.S., and officers of independent special tax districts elected on.a one-acre, one-vote basis are not prohibited
from voting in that capacity.
For purposes of this law, a "relative" includes only the officer's father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, brother, sister, father-in-law,
mother-in-law, son-in-law, and daughter-in-law.A"business associate" means any person or entity engaged in or carrying on a business
enterprise with the officer as a partner,joint venturer, coowner of property, or corporate shareholder(where the shares of the corporation
are not listed on any national or regional stock exchange).
ELECTED OFFICERS:
In addition to abstaining from voting in the situations described above, you must disclose the conflict:
PRIOR TO THE VOTE BEING TAKEN by publicly stating to the assembly the nature of your interest in the measure on which you are
abstaining from voting; and
• WITHIN 15 DAYS AFTER THE VOTE OCCURS by completing and filing this form with the person responsible for recording the
minutes of the meeting, who should incorporate the form in the minutes.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
•
APPOINTED OFFICERS:
Although you must abstain from voting in the situations described above, you are not prohibited by Section 112.3143 from otherwise
participating in these matters. However, you must disclose the nature of the conflict before making any attempt to influence the decision,
whether orally or in writing and whether made by you or at your direction.
IF YOU INTEND TO MAKE ANY ATTEMPT TO INFLUENCE THE DECISION PRIOR TO THE MEETING AT WHICH THE VOTE WILL BE
TAKEN:
• You must complete and file this form (before making any attempt to influence the decision)with the person responsible for recording the
minutes of the meeting, who will incorporate the form in the minutes. (Continued on page 2)
CE FORM 8B-EFF. 11/2013 PAGE 1
Adopted by reference in Rule 34-7.010(1)(f),F.A.C.
•
' 1
APPOINTED OFFICERS (continued)
• A copy of the form must be provided immediately to the other members of the agency.
• The form must be read publicly at the next meeting after the form is filed.
IF YOU MAKE NO ATTEMPT TO INFLUENCE THE DECISION EXCEPT BY DISCUSSION AT THE MEETING: •
• You must disclose orally the nature of your conflict in the measure before participating. •
• You must complete the form and file it within 15 days after the vote occurs with the person responsible for recording the minutes of-the •
meeting,who must incorporate the form in the minutes.A copy of the form must be provided immediately to the other members of the
agency,and the form must be read publicly at the next meeting after the form is filed.
•
DISCLOSURE OF LOCAL OFFICER'S INTEREST
•
I, DaV( Q P• • , hereby disclose that on Iql% t,6 2( , 20 I? :
.(a)A measure came or will come before my agency which(check one or more) l;Y P-
inured to my special private gain or loss; •
inured to the special gain or loss of my business associate, ;
inured to the special gain or loss of my relative,
inured to the special gain or loss of , by
whom I am retained;or
•
inured to the special gain or loss of ,which
• is the parent subsidiary,or sibling organization or subsidiary of a principal which has retained me. •
(b) he measure before my agency and the nature of my conflicting interest in the measure is as follows:
I currently sit on the Board of Directors of the Guidance Care Center, Inc. •
I am also a member of the Board of the Historic Florida Keys Foundation, Inc.
•
•
SEE ATTACHED AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
•
•
If disclosure of specific information would violate confidentiality or privilege pursuant to law or rules governing attorneys, a public officer,
who is also an attorney, may comply with the disclosure requirements of this section by disclosing the nature of the interest in such a way
as to provide the public with notice of the conflict.• :A,715e25-"-*
Zz ?v(9 •
Date Filed I Signature
•
NOTICE: UNDER PROVISIONS OF FLORIDA STATUTES §112.317, A FAILURE TO MAKE ANY REQUIRED DISCLOSURE
CONSTITUTES GROUNDS FOR AND MAY BE PUNISHED BY ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING: IMPEACHMENT,
REMOVAL OR SUSPENSION FROM OFFICE OR EMPLOYMENT, DEMOTION, REDUCTION IN SALARY, REPRIMAND, OR A
CIVIL PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.
CE FORM 86-EFF. 11/2013 PAGE 2
Adopted by reference in Rule 34-7.010(1)(f),F.A.C.
T.3
t, BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
County of Monroe Mayor Sylvia Murphy,District 5
The Florida Keys � � �l'U � Mayor Pro Tern Danny Kolhage,District 1
�pw° Michelle Coldiron,District 2
Heather Carruthers,District 3
David Rice,District 4
County Commission Meeting
August 21, 2019
Agenda Item Number: T.3
Agenda Item Summary #5949
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: County Administrator
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Lisa Tennyson (305) 292-4444
n/a
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Approval of the Monroe County 2020 State Legislative Agenda.
ITEM BACKGROUND: Staff is seeking Board approval of the issues herein to be included in the
County's 2020 State Legislative Program.
Each year, the BOCC and staff evaluate the trends and issues affecting all County programs and
services to identify potential policy or substantive legislative issues. Staff has provided a list of
substantive priorities and a list of general issues that we should monitor for 2020 State legislative
session; and welcomes the addition or deletion of issues that the Board deems appropriate for the
County's 2020 legislative efforts.
Most of the County's legislative efforts are incremental and focused on issues that are built upon
throughout several sessions, such as our unique water quality and land acquisition needs, and the
importance of wind insurance affordability; these will continue to be legislative priorities in the 2020
session.
Each year the agenda reflects changes or additional tasks in response to new challenges, new ideas
for existing challenges, or new opportunities for funding sources. For example, Hurricane Irma
provided an unprecedented challenge to our housing stock, and in response, we developed a list of
legislative strategies to bolster our housing recovery efforts.
Another example is the challenge presented by the first joint County-State takings judgment, which
prompted us to propose to seek an avenue for codifying what has been a long-standing assumption of
a shared financial responsibility between the County and the State last session. We will continue to
work on this priority for the 2020 session.
This year we are experiencing the impacts of a massive sargassum event, even larger in scope than
2018's record breaker. Tides and wind have deposited large amounts of sargassum along the Keys'
beaches and in canals. It is washing up on every Atlantic coastline in Florida. There are few realistic,
immediate, cost-effective interventions for this complex, naturally occurring event. The legislative
Packet Pg. 2253
T.3
team will continue to monitor the situation, work with our staff and other local governments, and
stand by to lend legislative assistance, if warranted.
Upon Board approval, the County's legislative team will pursue all of the legislative issues approved
by the Board, and in so doing,place appropriate priority on the issues that the Board directs to
receive a special level of attention in 2020.
Typically, through each session, the County's legislative team focuses on its priorities, and then
works through the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) and the Small County Coalition (SCC)in
achieving broader legislative issues. FAC and SCC will finalize their legislative programs during the
FAC legislative conference in November. As a member of the Southeast Florida Regional Climate
Compact, Monroe County works collaboratively to help develop the Compact's draft legislative
program. When the Compact finalizes its draft agenda, it will be presented to the County
Commission for approval.
Key dates for the 2020 State Legislative Session:
❖ November 6: Election
❖ November 28-30: FAC Legislative Policy Conference
❖ December-February: Legislative Committee Weeks
❖ January 8: Inaugural Day
❖ March 1: Deadline for filing General Bills
❖ March 5: Session Begins
❖ March 19: Keys Day
❖ April 23: Last Day for Committee meetings
❖ May 3: Session Ends
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION: Approval of the 2019 State Legislative Agenda.
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
n/a
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
DOCUMENTATION:
2020 Monroe County State Leg Agenda draft
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Effective Date:
Expiration Date:
Total Dollar Value of Contract:
Total Cost to County:
Packet Pg. 2254
T.3
Current Year Portion:
Budgeted:
Source of Funds:
CPI:
Indirect Costs:
Estimated Ongoing Costs Not Included in above dollar amounts:
Revenue Producing: If yes, amount:
Grant:
County Match:
Insurance Required:
Additional Details:
REVIEWED BY:
Bob Shillinger Completed 08/13/2019 1:50 PM
Budget and Finance Pending
Kathy Peters Completed 08/13/2019 2:27 PM
Maria Slavik Pending
Board of County Commissioners Pending 08/21/2019 9:00 AM
Packet Pg. 2255
T.3.a
Illlw moo
® Illlw moi moo Illlw
�> �' moo moo moo moo
i
i as
CID
CID
(f 04
qs
CID
^r
� qb
4
�j
W
04
n
E
gg �fN
� {4
1
MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Office of Legislative Affairs
AuguSt 21., 2019
DRAFT
Packet Pg. 2256
T.3.a
I oruroe County I13oaird of County Cornrnkslioineirs 53-tate Il.... gkllabiv IlIu°l ai li'bi S 2020
Mayor Sylvia Murphy, District 5
Mayor Pro Tern Danny Kolhage, District i
Commissioner Michelle Coldiron, District 2
Commissioner Heather Carruthers, District 3
Commissioner David Rice, District 4
Roman Gastesi
cv
cv
w IIIIV w
House District i2o: Representative Holly Raschein
Senate District 39: Senator Anitere Flores
Florida Association of Counties
0
Small County Coalition
0
Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact
South Florida Regional Planning Association cv
National Association of Counties
Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus
F �
Packet Pg. 2257
T.3.a
REPORT AND DISCUSSION.............................................................................................. 3
STATE LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES:
LandAcquisition.............................................................................................. 5
WaterQuality.................................................................................................. 6
Wind and Flood Insurance................................................................................ 7
Marine Protection (Derelict Vessels and Pump Out Program).......................... 8
AffordableHousing......................................................................................... io
VacationRentals.............................................................................................. io
Funding Sources:Tourist Impact Tax and Green Utility Fee.............................. io
Overseas Heritage Trail (Sugarloaf Section and Pedestrian Bridges)................ ii
Single Use Plastic Bags .................................................................................... ii
Drilling/Fracking........................................................................................... ... 12 cy
CD
cv
Everglades Restoration.................................................................................... 12
CoralReef Protection....................................................................................... 12
Resilience Hardening and Planning................................................................... 12
Emergency Management.................................................................................. 12 cm
c
Clerks'Funding/Judgeships............................................................................... 3.3
Florida Retirement System............................................................................... 13
Medical Marijuana................................................................................. 3.3 cis
Home Rule, Unfunded Mandates, County Revenues .......................... 3.3
0
Appropriations...................................................................................... 14 t0
0
0
GENERAL STATE LEGISLATIVE ISSUES:
CD
Growth Management/Environmental Regulation.............................................. 3.5 `CD
d
cv
Emergency Management................................................................................... 3.5
Homelessness .................................................................................................... 1.6
Health, Mental Health, and Social Services.......................................................... 1.6
Libraries.............................................................................................................. 3.7
Transportation.................................................................................................... 3.7
Veterans.............................................................................................................. 3.7
County Jails,Juvenile Justice............................................................................... 1.8
Sustainability/PACE/Recycling .......................................................................... 1.8
CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................................... ig
Page 2
Packet Pg. 2258
T.3.a
IMoini oe Courity I13oaird of Courity Cornr6isslioineirs St.ate Il....eglisllabive IFlii l oii lit.lies 2020
Illlu Illlu w
LEGISLATIVE AGENDA DEVELOPMENT
Staff is seeking Board approval of the issues presented herein to be included in the County's 2020 State
Legislative Program. Upon Board approval, staff and the contract lobbying teams will pursue all of the
legislative issues approved bythe Board,and in so doing,place appropriate priority on the issues that the Board
directs to receive a special level of attention in 2020.
Annually,the Board reviews legislative priorities and gives direction on and approval of priority legislative issues
to guide the County's lobbying efforts at both the State and federal level. Typically, the County identifies as
priorities only its most pressing issues and then supports the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) and the
Small County Coalition (SCC) in achieving their broader substantive initiatives. FAC and SCC will finalize their
legislative programs during the FAC legislative conference in November. Asa member of the Southeast Florida
Regional Climate Compact, Monroe County works collaboratively to help develop the Compact's draft J
legislative program. When the Compact finalizes its draft agenda, it will be presented to the County
Commission for approval.
Each year, the BOCC and staff evaluate the trends and issues affecting all County programs and services to `d
identify potential policy or substantive legislative issues. Staff has provided a list of substantive priorities and a
list general issues that we should monitor for the 203.9 State legislative session; and welcomes the addition or
deletion of issues that the Board deems appropriate for the County's 2020 legislative efforts.
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
The County's legislative efforts are incremental and focused on issues that are built upon throughout several
sessions, such as funding for water quality infrastructure and land acquisition, and protecting Citizen's wind
insurance affordability;these will continue to be legislative priorities in the 2020 session.
The County's number one priority is to secure a s25M appropriation through the Florida Keys Stewardship Act
(FKSA), of which $20M is to fund water quality projects and $5M is for land acquisition. 0
The FKSA authorizes an annual $5M set-aside of Florida Forever funding for the next ten years, dedicated
specifically to enable Florida Department of Environmental Protection to renew an aggressive land acquisition
program in the Florida Keys. As the universe of development permits shrinks, and the County reaches "build
out," there is a need to keep our State legislators mindful about the impacts and consequences of Monroe
County's challenge of protecting both environmentally sensitive lands while balancing private property rights.
The State of Florida, having designated the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern, is a partner with
Monroe County in this challenge and we continue to work closely with the State's ACSC oversight agency,the
Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) on these issues, and the State's main environmental regulatory
agency,the Department of Environmental Preservation.
Monroe County and the State are facing the first joint takings judgement in the Galleon Bay case. With this
judgement,the cost of takings is no longer theoretical. County and State officials have been jointly defending
the litigation and operating under the long standing assumption that the State would partner equally with the
in the payment of the judgement, however, that assumption has not been formalized. The judgment was
entered against the State and the County,jointly and severally, which means that each is fully responsible for
payment. To that end,the County will seek an avenue for codifying thisjoint responsibility, clarifying that the
County and the State are separately obligated to pay half of such judgments(including interest,attorney'sfees
and costs).
Page 3
Packet Pg. 2259
T.3.a
Wind insurance affordability is yet another critical need for our constituents and a key component in preserving
the Keys'strong local economythat is a valuable economic engine forthe State. Atthe State level,this requires
working with and monitoring Citizens Property Insurance Company's windstorm insurance to find ways to
enhance affordability,with the Office of Insurance Regulation to address annual rate increases, and to oppose
efforts to increase premiums, reduce coverage, and reduce eligibility. Affordable flood insurance is another
important issue, but mainly a federal one. However, Monroe supports any efforts that may be made by State
Legislature on behalf of the 1..8 million Floridians who are policyholders in the National Flood Insurance
Program,to preserve the NFIP and affordable flood insurance.
State and local investment in affordable housing construction and land acquisition remains a priority especially
as we continue our post-Irma housing recovery.
The spate of pre-emption bills introduced in recent legislative sessions such as those related to vacation rentals,
single use plastic bags, business regulation, use of county rights of way,affordable housing,and local referenda
represent a significant challenge to home rule. We expect these State legislative efforts to continue with
respect to preemptions, revenue reductions, cost shifts and unfunded mandates.
It is beneficial for the Board to be active participants in the legislative process by testifying on behalf of the
County and working with the legislative delegation. Staff will continue to keep the Board involved in legislative
issues through agenda items, resolutions, memoranda, FAC"Call to Action"emails, and regular updates.
cv
LOBBYING CONTRACTS CD
The County utilizes contract lobbying services at the State level to further Monroe County's legislative goals
and to secure vital appropriations. Monroe County currently contracts with Robert Reyes with Capital Group,
John Wayne Smith of Peebles Smith (with a sub-contract with Dean Canon of Gray-Robinson), Frank
Bernardino with Anfield Consulting,and Eduardo Gonzales with Sun City Strategies.These firms provide a daily
presence in Tallahassee and advocate for the County's legislative priorities.
Staff coordinates regularly with the County's State lobbying team by phone and e-mail to strategize on key
State policy, regulatory, and budget issues. In addition to weekly conference calls during session, and weekly
issues tracking, lobbyists also submit monthly reports, and formally report annually to the Board of County
Commissioners.
0
Please find on the following pages a listing of the proposed Monroe County 2020 State legislative issues, with
a brief discussion on each. 0
0
r_
0
KEY DATES
CD
cv
CD
202o Legislative Session `14
September-November: Legislative Committee Weeks
September 23: Local Delegation Meeting
September 25-26: FAC Legislative Policy Conference
November 20-22: FAC Legislative Conference
January 3-4: Session Begins
TBD: Keys Day
March 3: Last Day for Committee meetings
March 1.3: Session Ends
202o Election Calendar
April 27-May is Qualifying for Candidates for Congress, State Attorney, Public Defender
June 3-5-June ig: Qualifying for State Senate, State Representative
August 25: Primary Election
November3: General Election
Page/+
Packet Pg. 2260
T.3.a
Monroe County I13oaird ofCounty Coir nicnikslioners Staten Il...eglisll Eve IPirioiritlieS 2020
i o00 ooi i oo i i
LAND ACQUISITION:
BUILD OUT, LEGAL LIABILITY, CONSERVATION, MILITARY BUFFERS
CHALLENGES:
➢ Area of Critical State Concern: The State of Florida designated the Florida Keys an Area of Critical State
Concern, in recognition of its unique and significant environmental resources, and through the
Administration Commission, the State maintains oversight of the growth and development issues in the
Florida Keys.
➢ Hurricane Evacuation: State law limits residential housing growth in the Keys so that permanent residents
can be safely evacuated within 24 hours. U.S. i has limited capacity for cars on the road, which limits the ('
number of people that can live here. The State accomplishes this through an annual rationing of building
permits, until we reach a cap or"build out." °b
as
➢ Development Permits:The State caps the total number of new building permits in the Keys. In 2013 that
cap was set at 3,550. Each year, for the next ten years,the State allocates 355 permits to the Keys.We will CD
04
reach build out in 2o2-4, after which there will be no more permits, and no further development will be CD
permitted.
➢ Property Rights/Legal Liability:After we apply all of the available permits(3,550),there will still be 7,800
privately owned, undeveloped parcels, potentially with no ability to develop. The deficit of permits could
trigger property rights lawsuits against the local governments and the State from owners who may have
been denied the ability to build a home on their property. The total value of the remaining 7,800 parcels, as
and the liability of potential takings claims, is conservatively estimated at $317M. The County and the
State have already been named as co-defendants in property rights suits filed as a result of ACSC as
regulations, and arejointly defending those suits.
➢ Conservation and Non-Conservation Lands: Florida Forever provides a programmatic funding source
through which the State can acquire lands to retire development rights, as long as those properties are
conservation lands within the Florida Forever project boundaries. Of the 7,800 privately-owned,
undeveloped properties that could be left without permits approximatelY3,400 lie within Florida Forever as
project boundaries. In 2oi8, we secured legislative changes that authorizes the State to acquire non-
conservation lands in ACSCto retire development rights. However,this type of acquisition requires a State o
funding source. CD
04
CD
➢ Military Base Buffering: The Keys are home the U.S. Naval Air Station Key West. Approximately 50o of 04
the 7,800 privately-owned, undeveloped parcels lie within NASKW's military buffer areas. In 2oi8, we
secured legislative changes that prioritized NASKW within the State's military buffer lands program, but E
the program requires greater State funding in order to acquire more base buffer land.
➢ LOCAL COMMITMENT: Since August 1, 2016, Monroe County has expended a total of$12.3M in local funds
(a combination of infrastructure sales surtax and Monroe County Land Authority)to reduce this liability by
acquiring land and retire the development rights.The County has an additional $7.1M budgeted. The State
has expended $2.8M. To date, 229 development rights have been retired (168 by the County and 61 by the
State).
REQUESTED ACTIONS: Continue to work with in partnership with DEO and FDEP to fund and implement an
aggressive, long-term land acquisition strategy aimed at reducing the total inventory of privately owned vacant
land to curtail the threat of significant future takings liability.This can be done through multiple routes:
SUPPORT appropriation of$5M within Florida Forever as authorized in The Florida Keys Stewardship
Pag(w 5
Packet Pg. 2261
T.3.a
Act for land acquisition within the Florida Keys that will both conserve environmentally sensitive land
and retire development rightsto mitigate future takings liability.
SUPPORT efforts to codify a shared 50%-50%apportionment of State-County responsibility on takings
judgements.
°"" SUPPORT increased funding for Military Base buffering for State acquisition of buffer lands around
NASKW that will protect base encroachment AND retire development rights to mitigate future takings
liability.
°"" SUPPORT funding for State acquisition of non-conservation lands in ACSC to retire development rights
and mitigate future takings liability.
WATER QUALITY PROTECTION:
WASTEWATER TREATMENT, STORMWATER, CANALS a
CHALLENGES: as
➢ Unique Ecosystem:The Florida Keys lie within the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
This fragile and complex marine ecosystem of the Florida Keys is one of the unique ecosystems in the world
and is home to the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. and the third largest barrier reef in the 04
world,the largest sea grass meadow in the hemisphere,and 6,00o species of marine life. Leaching cesspits,
runoff and degraded canal waters pollute the nearshores waters of the Sanctuary and threaten the
ecosystem.
➢ Unrivaled Economic Impact: This ecosystem is the lifeblood of marine-based tourism and fisheries
economy unrivaled in the State of Florida generating over$413 in economic activity, enabling the Keys to °b
generate $zzSM in sales tax revenue for the State last year.
as
➢ Federal State Water Quality Mandates: The implementation of Advanced Wastewater Treatment
standards,storm water management and canal water restoration in the Florida Keys are all pursuantto and
in furtherance of the Federal Water Quality Protection Program mandates that apply to all of the waters
surrounding the Florida Keys. Congress created the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in iggo, and
directed US EPA and the State to develop a Water Quality Protection Program to restore and protect water
quality.
as
0
➢ Wastewater Implementation:The State,through Florida Administrative Code 28-20, mandated that The
Florida Keys Area of Critical Concern construct a centralized wastewater treatment system in compliance
with FS 381.and 403 across the span of the ioo+ mile archipelago. This has cost the local governments of CD
CD
the Florida Keys sgooM.The State has invested siooM in that system. 04
➢ Storm Water and Degraded Canal Waters: With wastewater treatment system improvements almost
complete, the Keys must now address two remaining areas of water quality concern, storm water and E
degraded canal waters. Runoff and poor canal water leach into the nearshore waters of the Florida Keys
National Marine Sanctuary and threaten its fragile ecosystem. Environmental testing has determined that
many canals in the Keys have poor water quality that fall below the State water quality standards.
➢ LOCAL COMMITMENT:
o County Funds: The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners expended $7M in local funds to
conduct a Restoration Pilot Program, wherein we implemented a number of different restoration
technologies on seven different canals to determine the costs and benefits of each technique.
o RESTORE Act funds: The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has committed all of its
$20M in its RESTORE Act funds to Canal Restoration.
Page 6
Packet Pg. 2262
T.3.a
Monroe County IE)oard ofCounty Coir nicnikslioners Staten I1...eglisl46ve IPirioirifieS 2020
o Natural Resources Conservation Service Funds: The County secured a $45M federal grant to remove
hurricane-related debris from almost 200 canals.
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT a$2oM appropriation pursuant to The Florida Keys Stewardship Act(Chapter 2oi6-225, Laws
of Florida)to construct water quality projects in the Florida Keys.
WIND INSURANCE AND FLOOD INSURANCE:
AFFORDABILITY AND ACCESSABILITY
CHALLENGES:
CD
➢ Wind insurance rates: Monroe's residential and commercial Citizens'wind insurance rates are the highest
CD
in the State. Monroe's premium rate 175%higher than the median coastal rate. Citizens Property Insurance as
Company provides wind insurance coverage for approximately go%of Keys'homes. High costs and limited
coverage negatively impact our citizens, our workforce, our property values, and our economy.
04
➢ Monroe's building standards: Monroe County's building standards are among the most rigorous in the CD
State,yet this is not reflected in Citizens'rate calculations for Monroe.
➢ Modeling: Despite dramatic differences in projected losses for Monroe County from the various rating
models, Citizens until this year used only the model most unfavorable to the County to apply statewide
increases to Monroe.
➢ Premiums vs.Claims: Premiums charged by Citizens are not commensurate with actual risk.
o From 2004-2oi8 Monroe paid in total more than a half billion dollars in premiums over claims. as
as
➢ Affordability and Annual Glide path: Monroe's already high rates are compounded with annual Zo%
increases. These costs exacerbate the County's housing cost crisis. Property insurance affordability is a key
component in preserving the Keys' strong local economy. The legislature recognized the importance of
affordable property insurance, but Citizens has failed to apply an "affordability" definition or standard
(beyond capping annual increases to io%.)
o Citizens Property Insurance Corporation statute reads: "The absence of affordable property insurance
threatens the public health, safety, and welfare and likewise threatens the economic health of the State. CD
The State therefore has a compelling public interest and a public purpose to assist in assuring that CD
property in the State is insured and that it is insured at affordable rates so as to facilitate the remediation,
reconstruction, and replacement of damaged or destroyed property in order to reduce or avoid the
negative effects otherwise resulting to the public health,safety,and welfare, to the economy of the State,
and to the revenues of the State and local governments which are needed to provide for the public
welfare."
➢ Flood Insurance: Affordable flood insurance is another important issue, but mainly a federal one.
Affordable flood insurance is provided through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). With more
NFIP policies than any other State, Florida has a lot at stake with the future of the program, and its
continued ability to provide flood insurance to Floridians at affordable rates. The majority of NFIP policies
belong to homes and businesses in the State's coastal communities;these coastal communities generate
8o%of the State's GDP. The County encourages the State Legislature to recognize the value of NFIP and
the local and statewide economic benefits of affordable flood insurance and to ensure and support
measures that preserve it.
Pag(w 7
Packet Pg. 2263
T.3.a
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT legislation that reduces Monroe's annual wind insurance rate increase maximum from io%to a
COLA-based annual increase, recognizing Monroe's unique affordability issues, strong building codes and
overall importance to the State of Florida.
°"" SUPPORT legislation to help lower premiums and annual rate increases by requiring Citizens to:
o Apply mitigation credits that account for Monroe's rigorous building standards;
o Apply an affordability definition or standard, per the statutory language mandating affordability.
°"" SUPPORT legislation to lowerwind insurance premiums on multifamily affordable units by re-categorizing
them to"personal residential"from "commercial residential."
°"" OPPOSE legislation that limits the availability of Citizens'coverage (particularly in areas such as Monroe,
where there is no reasonable degree of competition for windstorm insurance.) -�
SUPPORT State legislative efforts that recognize the importance of affordable flood insurance to
homeowners and local businesses, particularly in coastal communities,and to their local economies,which
in turn contribute tremendously to the overall State economy; and that seek to address flood insurance
premium rate hikes associated with changes to the National Flood Insurance Program.
SUPPORT the legislative efforts of Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe (FIRM) related to both wind and flood
insurance affordability and availability for Monroe County.
04
CD
MARINE PROTECTION:
DERELICT VESSELS AND PUMP OUT PROGRAM
as
CHALLENGES:
➢ Derelict Vessels: Monroe County has the highest number of derelict vessels in the State. The generation
of derelict vessels Statewide has been recognized by the Florida Legislature and FWC as posing significant
navigational and environmental impacts to be addressed. In 203.4, the FWC held a series of workshops
throughoutthe State to consider options forthe development of anchoring restrictions,acknowledging the
issue of long-term anchoring (storage) of vessels, and recognizing that such vessels often degenerate to
derelict condition. o
Consistent with FWC and Statewide goals, Monroe County supports legislation that:
o Reducesthe number of derelict vessels, including specifically addressing long-term anchoring(storage)
of vessels that often leads to degeneration and ultimately to derelict condition, and CD
04
o Ensures sufficient funding to remove and dispose of derelict vessels, such as adding an additional CD
04
surcharge to the vessel registration fee, both Statewide, and in Monroe County.
r_
as
➢ Vessel Pump Out Water Protection Program: The pristine waters of the Florida Keys attract high numbers E
of boaters from all over the State and country. These waters are all part of the National Marine Sanctuary
and are designated as a No Discharge Zone(NDZ)by DEP and the Sanctuary. Monroe County implemented
a large-scale mobile vessel pump out program in 203.3to assist boaters in complying with the NDZ.
o Monroe County requires occupied vessels to provide a"proof of pump out"and provides a weekly pump
out service. This requirement in concert with the no-charge pump out service has ensured near i00%
compliance with NDZ regulations.
o The program has captured over i million gallons of vessel sewage overthe past five years.
o Monroe County supports this program through its Boater Improvement Funds, Clean Vessel Act
funding, and direct legislative appropriations forthe past three years.This funding makes it possible to
provide the pump out service at no charge, which is highly effective at incentivizing boaters to pump
out, and protecting the quality of waters and the marine ecosystem surrounding the Keys.
Page S
Packet Pg. 2264
T.3.a
Monroe County IE)oaird ofCounty Coir nicnikslioners Staten Il...eglisllative IPirioiritlieS 2020
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT statutory change that limits the storage of a vessel at anchor in one location on public waters of
the State to not more than 6o days.
SUPPORT a $i surcharge on vessel registrations to be deposited into a State fund for the sole purpose of
derelict vessel removals, and an additional $i surcharge on all Monroe County vessel registrations to be
retained for Monroe County and to be used solely forthe purpose of derelict vessel removals within Monroe
County.
°"" SUPPORT a legislative appropriation of$750,000 to support the County's pump out program.
°"" SUPPORT continued Clean Vessel Act funding to Monroe County, and State efforts to secure higher level
of CVA funding from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and State appropriation for pump out services.
OPPOSE further dilution of county authority to regulate vessels and waterways.
as
AFFORDABLE HOUSING/POST-IRMA HOUSING RECOVERY
as
CHALLENGE:The challenges facing citizens of finding and securing affordable housing in Monroe County are
CD
04
not new but have increased exponentially after the devastation from Hurricane Irma. The storm destroyed CD
thousands of homes in the Florida Keys and compounded an already dire affordable housing market.
Throughout our post-storm housing recovery,the State has been an active and engaged partner. DEO worked
closely with Monroe as it developed the State plan forthe statewide allocation of CDBG-DR recovery funds. Its
Plan reflects the County's specific housing recovery needs, and allocates$goM (including $1oM for acquisition
and $25M for construction)to the local governments in Monroe to help address those needs. We are working
closely with the State this year as we begin this work.
as
As an "Area of Critical State Concern," Monroe is the only County to receive a special set aside in the State's
competitive annual allocation of Housing Tax Credits. This set aside is usually sufficient to develop one
affordable/ workforce rental project per year. However, the housing and displacement crisis created by
Hurricane Irma has magnified the need for additional funding resources to rebuild affordable housing, restore
the economy,and ensure the quality of life for these Keys communities.
as
Staff works in partnership with Florida Housing Finance Corporation for awards of Tax Credits and SAIL funding,
as well with DEO to highlight the importance of funding and other incentives to aid in our ongoing housing
recovery and rebuilding efforts, and to address the County's affordable housing challenges. CD
04
CD
We are also hopeful that the State will work with and assist Monroe as we seekthe legislative changes related 04
to taxation relief for affordable rental housing and vacation rental regulation, to help ease the County's
affordable housing crisis. E
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT award of Tax Credits to Monroe County, and protection of the Florida Keys set-aside;
SUPPORT award of SAIL funding to Monroe County;
SUPPORT legislation to enable us to dedicate one of the Monroe's two currently unutilized Tourist
Development Tax pennies for affordable housing for a period of two years;
°"" SUPPORT legislationthat provides propertytax relief on residential propertiesthat provide long-term
affordable/workforce rental housing; and
SUPPORT full appropriation of Sadowski Housing Trust Fund monies for affordable housing.
Page 9
Packet Pg. 2265
T.3.a
VACATION RENTALS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT legislation that provides a "carve out" for Monroe County from preemptive vacation rental
regulations via the County's status as an Area of Critical State Concern to enable the County to
amend/update our vacation rental regulations in order to increase supply of workforce housing.
°"" SUPPORT legislation that protects Monroe County's grandfathered vacation rental ordinances and that
would allow local governments with grandfathered ordinances to amend and update their regulations
without losing their grandfathered status.
OPPOSE legislation that preempts local communities from regulating vacation rentals, and legislation
that threatens grandfathered protections.
as
FUNDING SOURCES FOR LAND ACQUISITION AND LAND MANAGEMENT:
TOURIST IMPACT TAX AND GREEN UTILITY FEE as
CD
CHALLENGES:
04
➢ As an Area of Critical State Concern with a Land Authority, Monroe County is empowered to implement CD
Tourist Impact Tax, a one-cent tax that is collected on transient accommodations. A half-penny of this tax
funds land acquisition and the other half-penny goes to the County's general fund to offset the loss of ad
valorem taxes due to those land acquisitions and to offset the impacts of tourism.
For the Florida Keys, tourism is the most significant economic sector, creating jobs and bolstering the local
economy. Tourism also increases the costs for public safety,sanitation,additional infrastructure and utilities
like water, sewer, power, roads, bridges, sidewalks, lighting, parking, boat ramps, mooring fields, parks and as
beaches. It also increases the cost of living and the costs of land and housing, and places demands on the as
environment and the water quality.
Monroe County implemented this Tourist Impact Tax in 1.988, and it has remained unchanged since then
despite every increasing numbers of tourists.
Additionally, given the challenge of land acquisition to mitigate the potential financial and legal liability as
associated with the Keys'"build out"scenario in 2023, and the costs of addressing the impacts of climbing
tourism numbers, Monroe County seeks a statutory change to increase this tax by an additional penny to
generate additional revenue to meet these needs. This second Tourist Impact Tax penny will approximately CD
04
generate an additional $4M for land acquisition, and $4M to general fund to offset impacts, annually. CD
04
➢ As the County acquires more land to address takings issues,the costs to manage that land will increase.The
Green Utility Fee is an avenue for potential funding for these costs. Though the Green Utility Fee has been
in statute for several years it has not yet been implemented by any local governments. Currently the statute
limits the implementation of the GUFto local governments with populations over 500,000,this would require
amending in order for Monroe to be able to avail itself of this option. Fees collected is on a voluntary basis
and would require a local referendum or an individual opt-in, and an ordinance.
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT a statutory change (125.oio8, FS)to add one-cent to the Tourist Impact Tax.
SUPPORT a statutory change(369.255)to lowerthe population eligibility criterion to enable Monroe to avail
itself of this funding opportunity should the Board of County Commissioners determine in future years to
utilize it.
Page .1.0
Packet Pg. 2266
T.3.a
Monroe County IE)oaird ofCounty Coir nicnikssioners State I1...egk46ve IPirioiritlieS 2020
OVERSEAS HERITAGE TRAIL:
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES AND SUGARLOAF SECTION
CHALLENGES:
➢ Sugarloaf Segment of OHT:The segment of the trail required redesign because the former design did not
include work to mitigate erosion that occurred along shoreline during storms. FDOT funded the design in
FY 1.8, with $740,000 in Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) funds. The design is underway. The
focus now is on funding the construction,which is estimated to cost approximately s8-ioM.The project is
being designed so that it can be easily divided into three or four construction contracts as it may be easier
to secure smaller funding amounts and complete the project in phases rather than all at once (ie, s3M per
phase forthree phases). FDOT's SUN Trail Grant Program is a possible source of funding; FDEP must make
application to FDOT. FDEP could also include the funding in its departmental legislative budget request.
FDOT could include the funding in its 5 Year Work Program. TAP funding is not a viable funding option
since its limited to a siM/yr for three years. as
as
➢ Pedestrian/Fishing Bridges: These bridges are an essential part of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage
co
Trail.They are on the National Register of Historic Places.The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail Master CD
04
Plan (completed in 2000) was prepared by Monroe County in partnership with FDEP, FDOT, and the CD
National Park Services to fulfill the expressed vision by Monroe County citizens to have a continuous trail
along US ispanning the length of the Keys.As such,completion of the trail is a high priorityforthe County,
FDEP and other project stakeholders. The bridges are in poor condition, posing hazards to trail users and
boaters underneath and posing environmental hazards to the waters of the National Marine Sanctuary. (In
203.4, DEP closed 4 of these bridges due to their unsafe structural condition.) DEP must conduct a
Preliminary Design and Engineering study (PDE) to assess the conditions of the bridges and
repair/rehabilitation options. The PDE will cost$7.5M. Possible sources for funding include the following: as
inclusion in DEP's legislative budget request and TAP funds are also a possibility, but TAP funds are also
limited.
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
0
°"" SUPPORT DEP's efforts to fund the construction of the Sugarloaf segment of the Florida Keys Overseas as
Heritage Trail, including specifically:
o Request a direct appropriation for the first phase of construction, $3M.
o Support inclusion of funding for first phase of construction in FDEP's legislative budget request. CD
04
o Request FDOT support DEP's SUN Trail application for construction funds. CD
o Request FDOT include the project in its 5 Year Work Program. 04
as
°"" SUPPORT DEP's efforts to fund the Preliminary Design and Engineering study including specifically: E
o Support$7.5M for the PDE in FDEP's Legislative Budget Request
o Request FDOT provide funding assistance.
o Request a direct appropriation.
SINGLE USE PLASTIC BAGS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
OPPOSE legislation that preempts local communities from banning single use plastic bags, particularly
coastal communities where plastic bags are not only an environmental pollutant but also pose a danger
to ocean and coastal wildlife.
Pa g.,°.r..°.r..
Packet Pg. 2267
T.3.a
OIL DRILLING/FRACKING
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" OPPOSE legislation authorizing hydraulic fracturing or"fracking"or similar well stimulation processes and
treatments performed for the purpose of exploration or production of energy resources in the State, or in
the Florida Keys,or any area near conservation land or drinking water aquifers.
°"" OPPOSE legislation pre-empting local regulation of fracking/drilling activities, including ancillary activities
such as waste storage, handling and disposal,trucktraffic,and other local public health and safety impacts.
°"" OPPOSE legislation that would create a public records law exemption for proprietary information provided
by drilling companies.
°"" SUPPORT continuation of prohibitions against leases or permits for oil or gas drilling within Florida's
territorial seas, State lands, and the Everglades.
as
EVERGLADES RESTORATION CD
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
04
CD
SUPPORT legislation and funding to support continued implementation of the Comprehensive
Everglades Restoration Plan.
CORAL REEF PROTECTION as
as
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
as
SUPPORT legislation and funding that protects and preserves Florida's coral reef tract.
0
RESILIENCE HARDENING AND PLANNING
0
0
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
CD
04
SUPPORT State legislation that encourages vulnerability assessments, coordinates resources and CD
04
supports the efforts of local governments to mitigate and adapt to hurricanes, sea level rise, and other
climate-related challenges, and State funding for adaptation planning and investments in areas such as
roads and other infrastructure projects that provide hazard mitigation and serve to reduce immediate and
long-term risks to critical infrastructure.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT legislation creating a public records exemption for emergency management database
platforms,applications, programs, software,and the date and records contained therein; and the personal
identification information and financial information of persons related to disaster management and
response, including disaster responders, persons using a public shelter during an emergency, persons with
special needs, and persons providing or receiving damage assessment information.
Packet Pg. 2268
T.3.a
Monroe County Board ofCouinty Coir nirnikssioners Staten Il...egkll tive IPirioiritlieS 2020
CLERKS FUNDING/JUDGESHIPS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT continued attention to the adequate funding for the functions of the clerks of court, including
an allocation process that result in a fair and sufficient distribution of court generated revenue.
OPPOSE the decertification of any Monroe County Courtjudgeships and to any reductions to the local
judiciary.
FLORIDA RETIREMENT SYSTEM
as
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
as
°"" OPPOSE any benefit changes that result in an increase in the FRS county and county employee
contribution rates.
SUPPORT requiring all legislation that potentially results in an increase in the FRS contribution rate orthe
04
closing of the traditional pension plan to new employees to be analyzed and evaluated to determine the CD
direct fiscal impact of proposed changes to all local and State government to be eligible for consideration.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA
as
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
as
SUPPORT home rule: maintaining local authority to determine land use, zoning, and other regulatory
standards for marijuana cultivation, processing, and distribution.
°"" SUPPORT recurring revenue: a taxation or fee structure should be implemented with the State or
independently to help counties recoup all costs for public services, including but not limited to law
enforcement, and regulatory enforcement. o
as
SUPPORT legislation that provides comprehensive health-based regulatory system where the DOH is
responsible for licensing cultivation sites, dispensing facilities, and manufacturers of marijuana for o
medicinal purposes. CD
04
CD
04
HOME RULE, UNFUNDED MANDATES,
COUNTY REVENUES, STATE FUNDING LEVELS E
CHALLENGES:
➢ Pre-emption of Home Rule: Home rule, conferred to Florida counties by Article Vill, Section i(f) and i(g)
of the Florida Constitution (1.968), and by section 3.25.oi, Florida Statutes, is the principle that the
government closest to the people is the appropriate authority to serve the needs and requirements of the
community.The preservation of this concept is essential to the operation of county governments in Florida,
and which allows counties to develop and implement county-based solutions to local problems.
o Pre-emption Examples:The State Legislature often pursues local government pre-emptions in its
bills that prohibit local governments from banning or even regulating activities enabled by the
Legislature such as:fracking, single use plastic bags and vacation rentals.
P a d e:.r..,3
Packet Pg. 2269
T.3.a
➢ Unfunded Mandates:The State Legislature frequently passes legislation that compels local governments
to provide a service, program, or benefit without providing the appropriate funding. As more and more
mandates are created, local governments are faced with the burden of using local tax dollars to finance
functionsthat they have little control over and compromising local governments'abilityto provide services
requested by our local communities.
➢ Cost shifts: The State Legislature frequently passes legislation that passes along the costs or increases
local share requirements for services traditionally funded by the State, such as but not limited to County
Health Departments, Courts, Clerks'offices,Juvenile Justice, and mental health services.
➢ Restrictions of County Revenue Sources:Atthe same time the State Legislation imposes more mandates
and costs, it often pursues legislation reducing, restricting or eliminating sources of revenue for county
services, such as the Local Business Tax, Communication Services Tax, impact fees, transportation
concurrency fees, State park admission fees, and salestaxes.
REQUESTED ACTIONS: as
OPPOSE legislation that would revise current law in a manner that reduces or eliminates current local
government-related revenues or preempts home rule authority.
OPPOSE efforts to shift cost of services, implement unfunded mandates, reduce State funding for
infrastructure, programs and services, or other legislation that is costly and limits Monroe County's ability
04
to serve the needs of its citizens. CD
OPPOSE legislation that preempts the legislative and policy-making powers of counties used to regulate
land use and implement local zoning controls.
APPROPRIATIONS °'
REQUESTS: as
as
$20M legislative appropriation for water quality projects in the Florida Keys.
$5M legislative appropriation for land acquisition in the Florida Keys through Florida Forever set-aside.
$750,000 legislative appropriation for pump-out services in the Florida Keys.
$500,000 legislative appropriation for facility and security upgrades to the Guidance Care Center's Baker as
Act facility.
$3M Legislative appropriation to DEP and/or DOT SUNTrail Grant funding for the construction of the
o
Sugarloaf section of Overseas Heritage Trail; and/or, a DEP legislative budget request for project funds. CD
CD
04
as
E
Page`.r../+
Packet Pg. 2270
T.3.a
Monroe County IE)oard ofCounty Coir nirnikssioners Staten I1...egk46ve IPirioiritlieS 2020
GROWTH MANAGEMENT/ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT the continued designation of the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern.
OPPOSE legislation that prevents counties from having local environmental protection programs that are
stricter in nature than State or federal regulatory programs.
°"" OPPOSE any legislation that restricts State, county and city government purchases of conservation land,
and which would effectively eliminate land conservation efforts in the Florida Keys.
SUPPORT growth management legislation that is thoroughly vetted with all stakeholders,and thattakes
a targeted approach to increasing regulatory efficiencies, rather than broadly preempting local as
governments.
SUPPORT legislative efforts that strengthen the existing roles and home rule powers of local
04
governments to implement comprehensive planning programs that guide future development and CD
encourage the most appropriate use of land and natural resources.
SUPPORT county home rule authority, and current statutory provisions, which allow counties to retain
their current transportation concurrency systems, and impact fees,as adopted by local ordinance.
as
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT as
as
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT legislation creating a public records exemption for emergency management database
platforms,applications, programs,software, and the date and records contained therein; and the personal
identification information and financial information of persons related to disaster management and
response, including disaster responders, persons using a public shelter during an emergency, persons with
special needs, and persons providing or receiving damage assessment information.
CD
SUPPORT assistance for building/identifying Out of County Shelter for residents of Monroe County in 04
CD
cases of mandatory evacuation during storm-related events and other emergencies. 04
SUPPORT an increase to the county base grant funding, which has remained unchanged for nearly a
decade.
U
SUPPORT maintaining the original intent and purpose of the Emergency Management Preparation And
Assistance Trust Fund, which is to serve as a funding source for State and local emergency management
programs, by ensuring that all monies collected for purposes of funding emergency management,
preparedness and assistance are deposited into the EMPA Trust Fund and spent on emergency
management activities, and opposing legislative sweeps of these trust fund monies.
SUPPORT changes to the EMPA trust fund by ensuring the $2.00 and $4.00 annual surcharge on all
homeowner and business insurance policies is assessed on either a per-parcel or per-unit basis of coverage,
rather than on a single policy and a repeal of the service charge to general revenue on the EMPA trust fund
and redirect these monies back to the counties in the same manner in which the EMPA base grant is
distributed.
Page 15
Packet Pg. 2271
T.3.a
Disaster Funding: SUPPORT a 50/50 cost-share arrangement with the State for the non-federal portion
of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). SUPPORT the creation of an emergency bridge loan
program for counties to provide a source of expedient cash flow to counties impacted by a major
catastrophe.
HOMELESSNESS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT legislation that creates a dedicated State funding source for homelessness programs and
services.
°"" SUPPORT continued coordination with the State's homeless planning council, specifically as it develops
policies in support of the new Federal Strategic Plan to end Homelessness.
SUPPORTthe development of strategiesthat would allow local governmentsto workwith the State and
federal government to serve target populations: The chronically homeless, Veterans and Families and as
children,with particular emphasis on children aging out of the foster care system.
SUPPORT a process that would waive the fees related to obtaining personal identification from the State
CD
for persons identified as homeless. 04
CD
HEALTH, MENTAL HEALTH,
SOCIAL SERVICES, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
as
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
as
°"" SUPPORT efforts to secure state financial assistance (ie, legislative appropriation) to make necessary
upgrades to the Guidance Care Center facility that serves as Monroe County's Baker Act facility.
SUPPORT increasing State general revenue funding for County Health Departments (CHDs), preserving
the ability of CHDs to provide primary care and direct patient care services, particularly in communities
without adequate substitutes or alternative providers for these services, and maintaining a coordinated as
system of count health departments (CHDs) that is central) housed within the Department of Health
Y Y p Y p
(DOH).
CD
OPPOSE efforts to decentralize the public health system by transferring authority over CHDs from the 04
DOH to the respective county governments, any State reductions to the County Health Department Trust 04
Funds; and any efforts, legislative or otherwise,to limit or eliminate the provision of primary care services
in CHDs. E
U
SUPPORT increased funding for core mental health and substance abuse services. SUPPORT efforts to
increase supportive housing,employment and education initiatives for people with behavioral health issues
and/or disabilities. SUPPORT diverting, medically assisting, or treating mentally ill persons outside of the
criminal justice system through alternative community programs.
SUPPORT establishing a cap on growth in the individual county Medicaid costs to address cost shifts; and
continued evaluation ofthe County-State Medicaid cost-share arrangement.
°"" SUPPORT State legislation drawing down federal funds made available to Florida under the PPACA to
expand health care coverage to certain individuals who earn up to 1.38 percent of the federal poverty level,
if such a program does not further shift Medicaid costs to counties.
Packet Pg. 2272
T.3.a
Monroe County IE)oaird ofCounty Coir nicnikslioners Staten Il...eglisllative IPirioiritlieS 2020
OPPOSE legislation that limits the ability of county EMS providers to be reimbursed for out of network
transports.
°"" SUPPORT maintaining a countywide regulatory system for EMS through the current Certificate of Public
Convenience and Necessity(COPCN) process.
SUPPORT efforts to increase supportive housing, employment and education initiatives for people with
behavioral health issues and/or disabilities.
°"" SUPPORT appropriate funding for children in early learning and school age care to ensure children's access
to educational, enrichment and readiness programs; and continuation of funding for the Florida Healthy
Start and Healthy Families program.
°"" SUPPORT restoration and expansion of State funding for the Community Care for the Elderly Program,
which provides cost efficient diversion from nursing home placement for impaired elders.
CID
SUPPORT the continuation of a coordinated Transportation Disadvantaged (TD)system,and appropriate
as
and dedicated State funding for the TD program; protect the TD trust fund.
as
04
LIBRARIESCD
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" SUPPORT full funding of State Aid to Libraries based on the current statutory formula that provides
counties 25 cents for every local dollar spent, and measures that ensure decisions and policies regarding as
county libraries are made at the local level.
as
as
TRANSPORTATION
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT continuing enhanced State funding for the Small County Outreach Program (SCOP). This
funding is critical to Monroe County, which is a small county with major bridge and local road
responsibilities.
CD
04
SUPPORT increasing the cost cap (from $400,000 to $750,000) for counties to self-perform road CD
improvement projects using the Constitutional Gas Tax proceeds.
as
°"" SUPPORT legislation that would index local option fuel taxes to annual adjustments of the CPI. E
SUPPORT amending s.336.045, Florida Statutes,to include an additional paragraph expressly authorizing
Florida counties to determine the reasonable level and frequency of local road maintenance.
VETERANS
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
SUPPORT legislation establishing a program that allocates State funds to hire Veterans Services Officers
in counties in order to increase services and federal benefits for Florida veterans.
Page 17
Packet Pg. 2273
T.3.a
COUNTY JAILS, INMATE MEDICAL COSTS, JUVENILE JUSTICE
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
°"" OPPOSE sentencing of State inmates to county jails, but support counties' ability to contract with the
Department of Corrections for housing State inmates.
°"" SUPPORT legislation that reduces jail expenses by setting a reimbursement amount paid by counties to
medical providers for health care services for inmates and arrestees at no higher than the established
Medicare rate plus io%,the same rate as currently charged to the Department of Corrections, unless there
is an existing contract in place or a business practice providing a lower rate.
SUPPORT continued efforts to obtain Medicaid eligibility for persons incarcerated in county jails while
waiting disposition of their cases and to ensure that existing Medicaid benefits are not terminated during
incarceration.
as
SUPPORT initiatives that reduce juvenile detention through prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation
services.
as
as
°"" SUPPORT the Legislature appropriating State funds to the Department of Juvenile Justice to upgrade,
renovate, or reconstruct detention centers across Florida that are in a State of disrepair and State
04
investments in juvenile facilities to improve the conditions of secure confinement for detained youth CD
without such costs being shifted to the counties.
SUSTAINABILITY, PACE, RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE
REQUESTED ACTIONS:
as
SUPPORT the 2020 legislative initiatives of the SE Florida Regional Climate Compact's Legislative as
Program.
SUPPORT amending statutory language to clarify that in addition to energy retrofits and wind mitigation,
that flood mitigation is also an allowable use for PACE program.
SUPPORT incentives for local governments to assist in furthering State energy policies such as green as
building and carbon emissions reductions, and the technical assistance to implement these programs and
legislation that provides appropriate resources and incentives to local governments to achieve any
statewide recycling goals. CD
04
CD
SUPPORT State legislation that encourages vulnerability assessments, coordinates resources and 04
supports the efforts of local governments to mitigate and adapt to sea level rise, increasing storm severity
and other climate changes, and State funding for adaptation planning and investments in areas such as E
roads and other infrastructure projects that provide hazard mitigation and serve to reduce immediate and
long-term risks to critical infrastructure.
SUPPORT a State comprehensive climate change action plan, energy policies, and other initiatives to
reduce carbon dioxide and other compounds in the atmosphere which will help provide solutions to present
and future generations, including ecosystem sustainability, longterm water supply,flood protection,public
health and safety, and economic growth and prosperity.
°"" SUPPORT State funding of Solid Waste Management Grants.
Page'.r..S
Packet Pg. 2274
T.3.a
IMoini oe Courit.y I13oaird 0f Courit.y Cornr6isslioineirs St.ate Il....eglisllabive IFlii l oii lit.lies 2020
boo
MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Danny Kolhage, District i
BOCC1@monroecounty-fl.9Qv 305-292-3440
Michelle Coldiron, District z
BOCC22monroecounty-fl.pov3o5-2g2-4512
Heather Carruthers, District 3
BOCC32monroecounty_-fl.90v 305-292-3430
David Rice, District 4
BOCC4 @Monroecounty-fl.gOv3o5-289-6000
Sylvia Murphy, District 5
BOCC52monrocount - l.gov 5-453- 7 o 8 8
3 7
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Roman Gastesi
Gastesi-roman@monroecounty-fl.gov
cm
Office:305-292-4441
Cell:305-394-1332
DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
Lisa Tennyson o
Tennyson-lisa@monroecounty-fl.gov
Office:305-292-4444
Cell:305-509-1709
cv
cv
COUNTY ATTORNEY
Bob Shillinger E
Shillinger-bob@monroecounty-fl.gov
Office:305-292-3470
Cell:305-747-4717
LOBBYISTS:
Capitol Group, Robert Reyes,Tallahassee, FI 850-425-4050
Peebles-Smith,John Wayne Smith,Tallahassee, FI 850-681-7383
Anfield Consulting, Frank Bernardino,Tallahassee, FI 866-960-5939
Sun City Strategies, Eduardo Gonzalez, Miami, FI 850-488-1683
Page`.r..q
Packet Pg. 2275