Okaloosa County BOCC — November 17, 2015 — Oct 6, 2015 regular meeting minutes — reading text

Page 239 Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners to spend $21 Million but he could support a motion with a cost estimate more in line with our means. Mr. Windes responded that his motion directed staff on the preferred option and did not nail down an amount. He stressed that we must have a building which does the job and satisfies the public. Mr. Goodwin stated the proposed cost for the building is too high and he will not give his support until the budget for it is reduced. He supported scaling back on the project. Mr. Boyles asked Mr. Goodwin to clarify what an acceptable dollar amount would be. Mr. Goodwin replied that $17 Million is over budget and suggested stretching the money in the bank by 10% to 15%. He said although that is not a clear answer, he does not want to overspend. Mr. Boyles questioned the possibility of tearing down the existing building and rebuilding with a $10 Million to $12 Million budget. He stated the needs for a judicial building are fundamentally different than the needs for an office building. Mr. Boyles encouraged Mr. Goodwin to vote against the motion if he thinks a new facility would cost only $10 Million to $12 Million. Mr. Harris stated we cannot build what we want for $12 Million. He said it should be done right the first time and also encouraged Mr. Goodwin to vote against the motion at this time. Mrs. Ketchel stated this is the County Seat and a new structure will serve us for many years. She said we do not need to do it on the cheap, adding the motion has her full support. Mrs. Ketchel expressed her concern for the employees who work in the building and asked when they will be evacuated. Mr. Autrey said they will move as quickly as possible. He stated Human Resources, Purchasing and Risk Management must be moved from their current locations in order to begin moving people out of the Courthouse. The Clerk’s functions and the judges can then be moved. Mr. Autrey anticipated having the building emptied within eight weeks. Mr. Windes stated that from a commissioner’s standpoint, it is bold and challenging but that is why we are in these seats. He emphasized this will be a building to serve the county for the next 50 to 60 years. October 6, 2015 -17- Minute Book 73, Page 240 Okaloosa County Board of County Commissiocners Mr. Goodwin said he appreciates the advice on how to vote. He stated that he is not saying we don’t need a new building but he does not think a Cadillac design is necessary. Mr. Boyles expressed concern about the motion being hacked up or muddied and said the motion is to go forward with Option B and setting two or three townhall meetings for the public to comment on facade options. Mr. Windes replied, “The water is clear.” Mr. Goodwin asked if the motion includes project hard costs. Mr. Windes answered the costs are not being approved at this time and that will be discussed when the contract is approved. The vote was taken on the motion—4 yeas, 1 nay. (Mr. Goodwin voted no.) PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Cal Zethmeyer stated when the Crestview Board Chambers were being remodeled, the Commission held its meetings at Crestview City Hall. He also said he is hopeful the Board will look at constructing the front of the new Courthcuse to look like to the original built in 1918. Mr. Goodwin stated that he voted no on the motion not because he did not support doing something but because he is uncomfortable with the message of the motion. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:55 a.m. J. D. PEACOCK II NATHAN D. BOYLES, CHAIRMAN CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS (These minutes were transcribed by Teresa Ward.) October 6, 2015 -18- Minute Book 73, Page 241 Okalocosa County Board of County Commissioners