Okaloosa County BOCC — April 7, 2015 — 3-3-15 minutes — reading text

2015-16. March 3, 2015 -16- Minute Book 72, Page 196 Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners Mr. Goocdwin stated, generally, he is in support of the extension. However, he does have concern with the authority given to Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson to hire attorneys outside its firm without direct Board oversight. He said he understands the practicality of this but asked for the language to be rephrased or caps to be inserted. Mr. Goodwin stated he does not think that i1s a responsibility he can delegate in whole regarding the oversight or direct input. He suggested a cap for hiring outside attorneys in an emergency situation with ratification at the next opportunity. Mr. Boyles asked if this is a contract issue or a policy issue. Mrs. Ketchel said she believes Article VII of the contract deals with this item. Mr. Goodwin said he agrees with instances dealing with experts but asked for the portion for outside counsel to be stricken. Mr. Harris expressed confusion and commented this has never been an issue. Mr. Stewart explained the evolution of the process in relation to the Purchasing Manual. He said the procurement of legal services as outlined in the Purchasing Manual was treated like any other procurement and was an unworkable policy. Mr. Stewart stated there was no way to hire counsel and meet the necessary deadlines. He said prior County Administrators (Chris Holley and Jim Curry) made those decisions as the de facto board. The portion regarding procurement of legal services was removed from the Purchasing Manual. He also explained the time constraints regarding certain types of legal issues. Mr. Goodwin said he realizes there are time constraints but would like to have the ability to ratify, saying he can then look the citizens in the face and say he did not delegate his responsibility. Mr. Stewart stated he can bring back a report on the necessity to hire outside counsel but does not believe it will happen very often. He remarked he is not overjoyed at preparing an agenda item for this type issue and does not think the policy should be amended. Mr. Goodwin responded it could be added to the contract. Mr. Stewart replied the firm is willing to add the language and return it to the Board for ratification and modification. March 3, 2015 -17- Minute Book 72, Page 197 Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners Mr. Harris stated he is fine with the contract as it is. Mr. Windes stated his motion stands. 3 yeas, 2 nays. (Mr. Goodwin and Mrs. Ketchel voting no.) PROCLAMATION - THE PAUL HSU FOUDNATION TEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARDS IN MATH & SCIENCE WEEK Mr. Boyles presented for consideration a proclamation designation March 1-7, 2015 as The Paul Hsu Foundation Teaching Excellence Awards in Math Science Week. Mr. Harris made motion, seconded by Mr. Windes, to approve the proclamation as presented. 5 yeas PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. J. D. PEACOCK II NATHAN D. BOYLES, CHAIRMAN CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS (These minutes were transcribed by Teresa Ward.) March 3, 2015 -18- Minute Book 72, Page 198 Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners