fiscal year 2014/2015 annual report to the citizens of santa rosa county
DESCRIPTION
The annual report highlights the activities, programs, projects and accomplishments of the departments under the board of commissioners for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2014 and ending September 20, 2015.TRANSCRIPT
Reaching ForwardC
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015ANNUAL REPORT
TO THE CITIZENS OF SANTA ROSA COUNTY
PRESENTED BY THE
Santa Rosa CountyBoard of Commissioners
santarosa.fl.gov @SRCBOCC
/SantaRosaCountyBOCC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT SANTA ROSA COUNTY
Santa Rosa County is Florida’s 21st county created from portion of Escambia
County in 1842. It gains its name from Santa Rosa Island, which was named for
Saint Rosa de Viterbo.
REACHING FORWARDSanta Rosa County’s population is
currently estimated at 163,422 with a population growth of 39 percent since 2000.* Job growth between 2010-2013
was at 11.23 percent.**
*Source: US Census Bureau.
**Source: FloridaJobs.org
3 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS4 COUNTY LEADERSHIP6 COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR AND ATTORNEY7 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART8 COUNTY PROFILE12 COUNTY STATISTICS14 COUNTY ENGINEER14 Engineering Department 15 Environmental Department16 Navarre Beach Department18 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT19 HUMAN RESOURCES19 Personnel 20 Risk Management21 Grants22 Library Services23 OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET23 Budget Office 23 Procurement24 IT/Geographic Information System26 PUBLIC SERVICES26 Animal Services 28 Development Services30 Housing31 Transportation31 Long Range Planning32 Veterans Services33 Emergency Management37 PUBLIC WORKS37 Building Maintenance38 Parks39 Road and Bridge40 Administrative Services41 PUBLIC INFORMATION AND NEWS42 VETERANS MEMORIAL PLAZA43 COUNTY EXTENSION46 MAPS
The photography shown throughout this report was taken throughout Santa Rosa County courtesy of Santa Rosa County employees.
Cover Page PhotoField of Flowers by Sabrina White
This PageMap image by Florida Center for Instructional Technology, University of South Florida. Kayaking photo by Tammy Simmons.
About the 2014/2015 Annual Report to the CitizensTo offer this service at the lowest cost possible, this publication was created in-house and is available as a PDF on the county’s website at santarosa.fl.gov. The public can view current and past issues of county publications at santarosa.fl.gov/news and sign up to receive publications automatically via e-mail by clicking the subscribe button. To help ensure access to the county’s informational pieces, citizens without internet access are encouraged to use the public computer resources available at one of the five county libraries or call (850) 983-1877 to receive a copy by mail.
2 2012/2013 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT2 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
3 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The photography shown throughout this report was taken throughout Santa Rosa County courtesy of Santa Rosa County employees.
(From Left to Right) Vice-Chair and District 1 Commissioner Jayer Williamson, District 2 Commissioner Bob Cole, District 3 Commissioner Don Salter, District 4 Commissioner Rob
Williamson, and Chair and District 5 Commissioner Lane Lynchard
MESSAGE FROM THE COMMISSION CHAIRMAN
JAYER WILLIAMSON, VICE-CHAIR AND DISTRICT 1
BOB COLE, DISTRICT 2
DON SALTER, DISTRICT 3
ROB WILLIAMSON, DISTRICT 4
LANE LYNCHARD, CHAIR AND DISTRICT 5
As we prepare for a new year, I am excited about the bright future for Santa Rosa County. The year 2016 will mark a new chapter for Santa Rosa County with the retirement of Hunter Walker, who served as our county administrator for 20 years. Our new county administrator, Tony Gomillion, has the knowledge and skills to oversee the continued growth and prosperity of our great county.
Our county’s story is one not just of potential, but results. Santa Rosa County ranks high in the categories that matter. Our economy is strong, with unemployment rates well below the state and national average. Our low crime rate makes us attractive to visitors and those looking to relocate. Our education system ranks near the top in the state year after year.
Add to that the potential, not just Santa Rosa County but the whole region has, as a result of the RESTORE Act, Triumph Gulf Coast, and the other sources of funding coming from the BP disaster. We are already seeing the benefits of these funds bear fruit, and it is going to be an exciting time to live and work in the Panhandle.
Santa Rosa County will remain not just a good place to live, but a place where we continue to lead in those areas that matter to people: education, the economy, responsive local government, and a low crime rate.
I wish you the best of success in the coming year. I appreciate all you do in our community, and look forward to continue working to make Santa Rosa County an even better place to live, work and play.
Lane LynchardChair and District 5 Commissioner
4 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY LEADERSHIPThe board of county commissioners consists of five constitutional officers or five elected commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve and represent one of five districts and the county as a whole, as the governing body for Santa Rosa County. The Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners serves as the legislative and policy-setting body of Santa Rosa County as established under Section 125 of the Florida Statutes.
Jayer Williamson DISTRICT [email protected]
Jayer Williamson is a native of northwest Florida, graduating from Milton High School and the University of West Florida. An electrical contractor and part owner of Williamson Electrical Company in Milton, he currently serves on several local boards and has been heavily involved in community service and volunteer efforts throughout his lifetime. Williamson was appointed by Governor Rick Scott on June 18, 2014 to fill the vacancy created by the passing of his father, Jim Williamson and was elected to complete the term in August 2014.
Bob Cole DISTRICT 2 [email protected]
Cole earned his associate degree from Pensacola State College in industrial education. He owns local business, Bob Cole’s Automotive. He’s also an involved member at Pine Terrace Baptist Church and is prior President of the Men’s Brotherhood. Cole serves as a charter member of the Milton Rotary, member of the National Association of Counties and supports Milton High School soccer and track.
Don Salter CHAIR AND DISTRICT [email protected]
Salter was first elected to the commission in November 2000 and was re-elected in 2004, 2008 and 2012. Before becoming a county commissioner, he proudly served his country as an U.S. Army paratrooper in Vietnam. He also worked for Gulf Power Company, retiring in 2000 after 32 years. Salter has a masters of science in management degree from Troy State University. He serves as chairman of the Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial Foundation, and Santa Rosa Military Advisory Council.
Rob Williamson DISTRICT [email protected]
Rob Williamson is a Florida native, growing up in the small town of Seminole and has called Santa Rosa County home since 2003. Rob earned his bachelors degree from Florida State University and has been a successful Santa Rosa small business owner for more than a decade. Rob brings his years of successful business leadership experience, a passion for helping others maximize their God-given talents and a strong belief that government should be focused on delivering outcomes citizens want.
Lane Lynchard DISTRICT [email protected]
Lynchard graduated from Milton High School and received a bachelors of science in finance, cum laude, from the University of South Alabama. Lynchard received his law degree, cum laude, from Cumberland School of Law, and his master of laws in taxation from the University of Florida. He is an attorney with Lynchard, Greene and Seely. Lane is an active member of Community Life United Methodist Church and enjoys fishing and boating.
RECOGNITION OF FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION WEEK
SPRINGHILL SUITES GROUNDBREAKING
RECOGNITION OF OKINAWA CULTURE WEEK
COUNTYCOMMISSIONERS
6495 Caroline StreetSuite MMilton, FL 32570
santarosa.fl.gov/bocc
5 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY LEADERSHIP
BOARD DUTIESThe board duties include, but are not limited to:
• Adopting, reviewing and adjusting the annual county budget and authorizing expenditures (see page 12)
• Setting and authorizing the levy and collection of county-wide property taxes, with the exception of school board, water and fire district millage rates (see page 13 for millage rate history)
• Establishing policies and procedures for county departments to meet county goals
• Appointing the county administrator, county attorney, and county representatives to other governmental boards or committees (see page 6)
• Ratifying, modifying or denying the actions of commissions and boards which are advisory to the county board
• Adopting and ratifying ordinances and resolutions as needed for the enforcement of county-wide actions
• Reviewing the effectiveness of county services and programs as performed by the departments under the board of county commissioners (departments primarily provide development, building, emergency, environmental, road, and park functions or services)
• Communicating to state and federal government agencies and officials the needs and concerns of Santa Rosa County residents and our community
• Representing the county on administrative/advisory boards, commissions and associations which provide direct and indirect county services, on a local, regional and state level
• Other duties and responsibilities that may be enacted by the federal government, state legislature and governor
The commission meets in regular session to vote on agenda items at 9 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Discussion of agenda items takes place during committee meetings on the Monday prior to the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Both meetings are held in the commissioners’ board room in the administrative center located at 6495 Caroline Street. Meetings can be viewed live or at any time at santarosa.fl.gov/bocc/bocc_calendar. Special meetings and workshops are advertised and open to the public.
In Santa Rosa County, the commission is elected “at large,” meaning all registered voters in the county are able to cast a vote for each commission seat on the ballot. The commissioners represent one of the five districts and the county as a whole. Each member must reside within the particular district for which seat he/she seeks election. Each year the board organizes itself selecting a chair and vice-chair from among its members to preside at commission meetings.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PRESENTATION
FAIR HOUSING WEEK PROCLAMATIONRECOGNITION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ACCREDITATION
6 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR AND ATTORNEY
Gulf Breeze sunset photoby Amy McDonald
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RESPONSIBILITIESThe county administrator acts as the chief administrative officer for the county and is responsible to the board for the day-to-day operations of county government.
Department directors and staff work under the county administrator to provide a variety of services to our residents as directed by the policies and procedures established by the board of county commissioners.
The county administrator’s main duties include assuring the commissioner’s directives are conducted thoroughly and efficiently, drafting a recommended county annual operating budget for the board, preparing policy recommendations for commissioners’ approval, preparing commission meeting agendas, assisting the commission in establishing long and short term goals and objectives for the county, and coordinating efforts with other state, federal, county, municipal and non-profit agencies.
Tony Gomillion was selected to serve as the Santa Rosa County administrator after Hunter Walker retired December 31, 2015.
Hunter Walker, County Administrator
COUNTY ATTORNEY RESPONSIBILITIES The county attorney serves as the in-house chief legal counsel to the county in all legal matters. The attorney provides legal advice and representation to the board of commissioners, the county administrator, all county departments, and the boards and committees organized under the board of commissioners on matters related to its official responsibilities. Roy Andrews was selected as Santa Rosa County’s attorney in 2014.
The county attorney represents the commission in litigating claims filed both on behalf of and against the county in state and federal court. Duties also include attending mediation and arbitration sessions, drafting ordinances, resolutions, contracts, interlocal government agreements and other legal documents, handling mortgage foreclosures and bankruptcy petitions and performing legal research. The county attorney is not authorized to provide legal advice to private citizens.
On behalf of the Santa Rosa County Board of Commissioners, it is my honor for the last time as the county administrator to present the 2014/2015 Santa Rosa County annual report. This report is designed to encapsulate the accomplishments, achievements and initiatives developed by the board of commissioners and implemented by the offices, functions, and departments responsible to the board during fiscal year 2014/2015.
As you will note from this report, the board of commissioners is responsible for a number of varied departments and functions providing multiple services to county residents. From roads and bridges to animal services to branch libraries to building inspections and so on, county employees provide quality customer service across the spectrum of local government services.
I am proud of the work of the board and employees during fiscal year 2014/2015 and I am extremely appreciative of the dedication to providing the best service to Santa Rosa County residents by both the board and its employees. With my retirement at the end of 2015, I know the county and employees will be in good hands with the new county administrator, Tony Gomillion.
HUNTER WALKER PRESENTED WITH CONGRESSIONAL RECORD RECOGNIZING 20 YEARS OF SERVICE
COUNTYADMINISTRATOR
6495 Caroline StreetSuite DMilton, FL 32570
santarosa.fl.gov/bocc/ administrator.cfm
COUNTYATTORNEY
6495 Caroline StreetSuite CMilton, FL 32570
santarosa.fl.gov/bocc/ attorney.cfm
Upda
ted
Janu
ary
2016
8 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY PROFILE
Background: Sunset photo by Ginny Palmer
2014 COUNTY POPULATION ESTIMATES
Total Population 163,422 % Change, April 2010 to July 2014 8%Median Age 39.4 yearsPopulation Under 18 years old 22.6%Population 65 years old + 14.5%Source: US Census Bureau
REGISTERED VOTERS
Republican Democratic Other Total Source: votesantarosa.com as of Oct. 20, 2015
INCOME (2014)
County Median Household Income $57,703Florida Median Household Income $46,956County Population Below $15,000/year 9%County Income Over $150,000/year 7.4%County Population Below Poverty Level 12.3%Florida Population Below Poverty Level 16.3%Source: US Census Bureau
GEOGRAPHY
Land 1,017 square miles Water 157 square milesCoast Line 88.5 square miles Total Area 1,174 square miles
COUNTY ROADS
Dirt Roads 98.5 miles Paved Roads 1,479 milesTotal Miles 1,577.5 miles
PROPERTY VALUE (IN BILLIONS) 2013 2014 2015
Value of Real PropertyResidential Vacant Land Commercial
PARCELS 2013 2014 2015
Total Parcel Count Homesteaded parcels Senior Exemptions
TOP 10 MAJOR PRIVATE EMPLOYERS #EMPLOYED
Walmart Stores Baptist Health Care Santa Rosa Medical Blackwater Correctional Facility Publix Navy Federal Mediacom Goldring Gulf Distributing AppRiver, LLC Lifeguard Ambulance
PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS #EMPLOYED
County School District Federal Military State Government County Government Federal Government (Employment numbers as of September 2015)
LABOR FORCESEPTEMBER 2015, NOT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED
Civilian Labor Force 74,755 Number Employed 71,318 Number in County Unemployed 3,437Unemployment Rate 4.6%Change in % from August 2014 -1.1%Source: FloridaJobs.org
AGRICULTURAL (2014)
Total Planted Crops 73,098 acresCounty Gross Value $66,278,233*Top Crops Cotton and PeanutsLivestock Gross Value $13,452,050*Includes Horticulture Nurseries
TOURISM (BED TAX COLLECTIONS)
Bed Tax CollectionsFY 2014/2015 $2,175,353FY 2013/2014 $1,544,964Change in % +23%
69,63125,91326,579
122,123
$10.87$7.14
$.65$1.01
$11.63$8.37
$.69$1.06
$11.99$8.09
$.72$1.32
104,30341,874
2,576
105,15942,135
2,591
105,81342,522
2,621
1,285543400400380340300240220160
2,7501,3361,282
949751
9 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY PROFILEESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION DOLLARS SPENT - SANTA ROSA COUNTY
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
Commercial Permits
Single Family Permits
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
3,298
1,270
2,509
253 175
1,869
Num
ber o
f Per
mits
2010 2011
Residential Permits
2012 2013
71
958
1126
2014
BUILDING PERMIT HISTORY
CONSTRUCTION BY IMPACT FEE AREA (NO FEE CURRENTLY EXISTS)
AREA 1
New Homes 32Average Construction Cost $144,850 Remodel/Additions Single Family 53 All Commercial* 5
AREA 2
New Homes 443Average Construction Costs $134,380 Remodel/Additions Single Family 893 All Commercial* 38
AREA 3
New Homes 457Average Construction Costs $163,420Remodel/Additions Single Family 1,207 All Commercial* 215
*Commercial includes townhouses and condominium construction
Area 1
Area 2
Area 3
IMPACT FEE AREAS
Construction is on the rise. Residential and commercial structure dollars spent in our county for calendar year 2014 totaled $190,647,065. Over the last five years, the construction dollar amount was only higher in 2009 when totals were $222,643,827 as a result of the construction of the Blackwater Correctional Facility and the H.T. Hackney distribution center. The panhandle also saw an increase in construction in 2005 after hurricanes Ivan and Dennis.
All graphs represent calendar year figures.
Residential Commercial
050
100150200250300350400
In M
illio
ns
$399,149,178
20102009200820072000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2011 2012
Hur
rican
e Iv
an
Hur
rican
e D
enni
s
2013
$190,647,065
2014
10 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY PROFILE: HOW DO WE COMPARE?
COST PER CITIZEN
County2014 Population
Estimates% Change 2014
Estimates2014 Operating
Millage RateTotal Taxes Levied
per Capita 2014% Change
2013% of Population in
Unincorporated Areas
Citrus 140,798 .2% 7.7855 $496 -23.6% 93%Escambia 303,907 .93% 6.6165 $349 +3.3% 82%
Indian River 140,955 .98% 3.3375 $563 +4.7% 66%Martin 148,585 .34% 5.9651 $1,007 +4.6% 87%
Okaloosa 190,666 1.23% 3.4308 $269 +4.3% 58%Santa Rosa 159,785 1.57% 6.0953 $293 +3.2% 90%
COUNTY STAFFING COMPARISON
Evening Walk photo by Andrew Hill
Santa Rosa County continues to have one of the lowest per capita costs per citizen, or the average cost per person residents pay for county services. The per capita rate (county taxes only) does not include the operating millage and any special county taxes for certain districts, MSTU, or debt service levies. The chart above compares Santa Rosa County to our two neighboring counties and three comparable sized Florida counties. The data is available from the Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research at http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/local-government/data/data-a-to-z/a-f.cfm.
Santa Rosa County provides services at the lowest cost compared to four of five neighboring and similar-sized counties. Okaloosa County does have a lower per capita rate, but it also has only 58 percent of its population living in unincorporated areas, where Santa Rosa has 90 percent. People living in incorporated areas, or towns and cities, generally pay additional town or city taxes which are not reflected in this table.
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800
403385
519525
848815
892873
916903
17271653
Santa Rosa
Okaloosa
Martin
Escambia
Indian River
Citrus
Fiscal Year 2015/2016
Fiscal Year 2014/2015
11 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY PROFILESANTA ROSA AUTHORIZED POSITION HISTORY
Santa Rosa County has the least number of employees per resident when compared to our neighboring counties and those Florida counties of similar size. For fiscal year 2014/2015 Santa Rosa County averaged one employee for every 396 residents. While some counties’ staff numbers include county-run EMS and fire services, Santa Rosa County’s staffing numbers are still significantly lower than our comparable and neighboring counties.
CountyStaff to
Resident RatioCitrus 1: 271Escambia 1: 176Indian River 1:166Martin 1:162Okaloosa 1:214Santa Rosa 1:396
SANTA ROSA COUNTY STAFF SALARY RANGES
0
100
200
300
400
500
2000/01 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2009/102008/092007/082006/072005/06
361 379 385 395 407450
375388
450481
Fiscal Year
Num
ber o
f Em
ploy
ees
2010/11 2011/12
364 358
2012/13
362
2013/14
369 385
2014/15
403
2015/16
$29,999 or less (41%)
$30,000 - $49,999 (41%)
$50,000 - $69,999 (13%)
$70,000 - $89,999 (2%)
$90,000 - 140,000 (2%)
$30,000 - $49,999
$29,999 or less
$50,000 - $69,999
41%
41%13%
2% 2%
$70 - $89,999
$90K+
Satsuma photo by Cheryl Powell, Navarre Beach after remnants of Patricia by Sheila Taylor
12 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY STATISTICS
2014 PROPERTY TAX REVENUE COMPARISON
0 20 40 60 80 100 1200 20 40 60 80 100 120
2014 County Property Tax Revenue Comparison
Okaloosa County
Santa Rosa County
Citrus County
Indian River County
Escambia County
Martin County
$46,868,543
$49,337,289
$61,301,541
$44,728,749
$94,259,092
$105,664,444
Revenue data: http://edr.state.fl.us/Content/local-government/data/data-a-to-z
EXPENSES EXPLANATION
Public Safety - services provided for the security of persons and propertyGeneral Government - services provided by the legislative and administrative branches of the local government for the benefit of the public as a whole Transportation - cost of services for the safe and adequate flow of vehicles, travelers and pedestriansTransfers Out - flows of assets (such as cash or goods) between funds without equivalent flows of assets in return and without requirement for repaymentHuman Services - services for the care, treatment and control of human illness, injury or handicap, and for the welfare of the community as a whole and its individuals Culture and Recreation - cost of providing and maintaining cultural and recreational facilities and activities for the benefit of citizens and visitorsPhysical Environment - services provided for the primary purpose of achieving a satisfactory living environment by controlling and utilizing elements of the environmentCourt Related - costs of operating the judicial branch including county court, circuit court, the state attorney’s office and the public defender.Economic Environment - services which develop and improve the economic condition of the community and its citizens
Where the Money Goes
Total Expenses: $84,607,480Total Revenue: $89,881,762
Where the Money Originates
REVENUE
TaxesLicenses and PermitsIntergovernmental
Charges for Services
Fines and Forfeits
Miscellaneous
Transfers In
EXPENSES
Economic EnvironmentHuman ServicesCulture/RecreationCourt Related
General GovernmentPublic SafetyPhysical EnvironmentTransportation
Transfers Out
13 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C
$0 $10,000,000 $20,000,000 $30,000,000
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
SHERIFF
PROPERTY APPRAISER
TAX COLLECTOR
CLERK TO THE BOARD
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
COUNTY STATISTICS
BREAKDOWN OF CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS FUNDING
SANTA ROSA COUNTY MILLAGE RATE HISTORY
Total General Fund: $73,510,459
YOUR TAXESIn Santa Rosa County, there are two primary taxing authorities to which all property owners pay property tax also known as “ad valorem taxes,” the county and the public school system. Each taxing authority has the ability to charge or levy a tax on a property and each have their own governing board to propose and adopt their respective tax rate. The county’s taxes are levied by the board of county commissioners. The taxes collected are used to fund the board of county commissioners and the other five constitutional offices - tax collector, property appraiser, clerk of the court, supervisor of elections and sheriff- and the vital services they provide to county residents. Property taxes are charged in “mills” and the amount paid is based on the value of the property. A mil is equal to $1 per $1,000 of value.
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
6.9720
6.6175
6.0953
2000
2012
200820092010
2007200620052004200320022001
Mils
2011
201320142015
Praying Mantis and Flower photo by Kim Gallagher
$0 $10,000,000 $20,000,000 $30,000,000 $40,000,000
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
SHERIFF
PROPERTY APPRAISER
TAX COLLECTOR
CLERK TO THE BOARD
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
More than half of your ad valorem taxes goes toward funding the public school system.
?DIDYOUKNOW
14 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY ENGINEER
The engineering division is comprised of three departments consisting of engineering, environmental and Navarre Beach utilities.
The engineering department provides technical support to all county operations and departments. Services include engineering, planning, surveying, environmental and regulatory permitting, design and construction document preparation, and inspection for multiple county projects involving stormwater management, traffic management and control systems, roadway improvements, airport infrastructure, hazard mitigation, county owned water and wastewater systems and industrial park infrastructure improvements. Additionally, all commercial site plans and subdivision developments are reviewed to determine potable water, and wastewater concurrency and compliance with the county’s stormwater requirements with the land development code. The department reviews four submittal phases - preliminary plat, construction plans, final plat, paved road and drainage maintenance of subdivision developments and makes recommendations to the board of county commissioners for each phase of development.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Blackwater Heritage Trail connector | Design
• Berryhill Road resurfacing | Administer design consultant and construction contract bidding
• Tiger Point Boulevard sidewalk | Design, construction contract bidding and administer CEI consultant
• Local agency program estimates | King Middle School and Glover Lane sidewalks
• Review initial RESTORE project submittals
• Assist with grant application for Godwin bike/ped connector
• Identify and prioritize corridor management projects with Florida Department of Transportation
• Villa Venyce Canal dredging
• Grand Canal washout and Venetian Way washout
• Industrial Boulevard parking lot
• Villa Venyce, Patterson Lane, and Maranatha/Chipper drainage improvements for hazard mitigation grant program
• Settlers Colony drainage improvements
• Tennis Center at Benny Russell Park
• Aurora Drive drainage improvements
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
6051 Old Bagdad HighwaySuite 300Milton, FL 32583
santarosa.fl.gov/engineering
Engineering Department
VENETIAN WAY BEFORE
VENETIAN WAY DURING REPAIR
GRAND CANAL BEFORE GRAND CANAL AFTER VENETIAN WAY AFTER
15 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY ENGINEER
The environmental division consists of three departments consisting of solid waste, household hazardous waste and mosquito control.
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCE RECOVERYThe solid waste program for Santa Rosa County includes Central Landfill, Jay Residential Drop Off Station and two closed landfills.
Central Landfill is a Class I and III facility. Garbage is categorized into either Class I for household garbage or Class III for non-hazardous, non-food contaminated debris. Special waste and certain regulated materials are accepted under specific requirements. Residential household hazardous waste is taken at HHW. Many items that are brought to the landfill for disposal are actually segregated for recycling or alternate disposal. During fiscal year 2014/2015, Central Landfill received over 160,000 tons of Class I materials, nearly 70,000 tons of Class III materials
and diverted over 13,000 tons of materials from landfill disposal. In addition, the landfill reused over 4,500 tons of yard waste as alternative daily cover. The scale house attendants assisted nearly 120,000 customers.
A major environmental project at Central Landfill has been to take steps to convert landfill gas into usable compressed natural gas, or CNG, an alternative vehicle fuel. Phase I of our landfill gas project included installing the collection system at Central Landfill. The collection system included 30 vertical landfill gas (LFG) extraction wells, three condensate sumps and a total of 14,048 feet of high density polyethylene piping for collection and transportation of LFG to the flare station for destruction, removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Phase II of the project included the engineering design to move forward for approval of the next phase which will include converting the gas being destructed into CNG. Another goal completed this fiscal year included leasing major equipment. The department leased six key pieces of large equipment that are essential for landfill everyday operations. Leasing the equipment saved thousands of dollars in reoccurring repair and maintenance costs for over used, older equipment. A six-acre, double-lined Class 1 disposal cell is in the process of being completed and will provide an additional four years of disposal capacity.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• The ECUA contract began for residents north of the Yellow River, including areas such as Pace, unincorporated Milton and Jay. This provides residents cheaper rates and increased service options.
• Over 6,000 customers were serviced at the Jay Residential Drop Off Station.
• Central Landfill pumped to date approximately 6.7 billion gallons of groundwater for treatment before returning it to the sand and gravel aquifer. Santa Rosa County continues to be an example of successful remediation.
• The environmental department hosted education tours for approximately 120 in the fifth grade from Rhodes Elementary School. They were taught landfill concepts, leachate management, groundwater monitoring, proper disposal of household hazardous waste and the importance of categorizing materials for proper disposal and planning.
• Design plans have begun to implement and construct a new commercial inbound scale and entrance road at Central Landfill. The plans will accommodate not only commercial waste haulers but also help accelerate the weigh-in process for county residents.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
• The Household Hazardous Waste Facility assisted nearly 6,000 customers and recovered nearly 14,000 gallons of paint, 2,000 gallons of chemicals, over 11,000 gallons of oil and gas, and nearly 5,000 fluorescent bulbs and tubes.
• Household Hazardous Waste shipped over 200 tons of electronic scrap to be recycled, rather than buried in the landfill. They also diverted over eight tons of batteries from landfill disposal. Proper disposal saves landfill, makes a product reusable again and also helps protect against groundwater contamination.
• On average, 14 televisions were recycled per day.
• Over 300,000 pounds of used tires were diverted from Central Landfill disposal.
• Over 9,000 tons of single stream recyclables were collected. Continued on Page 16...
Environmental Department ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT
6065 Old Bagdad HighwayMilton, FL 32583
CHECKING OUT A CHEMICAL LOCKER
16 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C
The Navarre Beach department is responsible for utilities, such as water and wastewater, on Navarre Beach including, but not limited to, running a wastewater treatment plant and two wells that supply water to island residents and businesses. Members of our staff perform all maintenance for Navarre Beach Park, park restrooms and pavilions as well as maintaining 12 walkovers and public parking areas on the island. In our office we assist residents with all things related to Navarre Beach including utility issues and billing questions. We also handle all pavilion reservations for Navarre Beach Park. Our department hires and supervises seasonal certified lifeguards each year to oversee public safety on Navarre Beach.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• The water system pumped 108 million gallons of water last year to 1,868 customers on Navarre Beach.
• The wastewater treatment facility treated 112 million gallons of wastewater.
• Lifeguard season ran from March 14 - November 1 with lifeguards making 93 rescues. July 4th was the busiest day of the year with 1,195 beachgoers on the lifeguarded portion of the beach. The month of July was the busiest month with 13,519 beachgoers on the lifeguarded portion of Navarre Beach.
• Lifeguards began doing roving patrols at unguarded beach areas, resulting in both increased visitor awareness and rescues this fiscal year.
• Pavilion rentals at Navarre Beach Marine Park totaled 355.
• Navarre Beach Pier sold 152,855 passes for visitors who enjoyed fishing and walking the pier.
• Thirteen turtle nests hatched on Navarre Beach.
• The beach renourishment project is scheduled to begin at the end of 2015.
• The Navarre Beach boat ramp dredging project is scheduled to begin at the end of 2015.
COUNTY ENGINEER
NAVARRE BEACHDEPARTMENT
1411 Utility DriveNavarre Beach, FL 32566
santarosa.fl.gov/navarrebeach
Environmental Department (continued) MOSQUITO CONTROLThe mosquito control department is responsible for the larvacide and adulticide treatment of mosquitoes for Santa Rosa County. Mosquito prevention is achieved through public education, surveillance and treatment. Larvacide assessments are completed throughout the year. Mosquito larvae are treated in ditches, abandoned pools, holding ponds, etc. In addition to larvaciding, when temperatures are above 60 degrees, technicians utilize up to three fog trucks per week night for spraying adult mosquitoes. The mosquito control department has 30 spray routes that cover the entire county. Traps are set throughout the county, to monitor species of mosquitoes, migration patterns, and breeding areas.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Mosquito control held educational activities for students from Bagdad Elementary, Rhodes Elementary, Santa Rosa Christian and Gulf Breeze Middle School. The presentations included species identification, health risk, life cycle, treatment and source education.
• During the fiscal year, mosquito control treated approximately 800,000 acres with adulticide and
approximately 250 acres for larva.
Navarre Beach DepartmentPink Flowers photo by Casey Smith-Cavazos
17 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY ENGINEER
VIEW FROM THE PIER
TURTLE NEST ON NAVARRE BEACH
2015 NAVARRE BEACH LIFEGUARD STAFF
Lifeguard photo by PIO OfficeTurtle nest photo provided by Navarre Beach Department
Pelican in the Gulf photo courtesy of Darliene StanhopeView from the Pier photo by Sarah Whitfield
Background: Condos from the Pier photo by Sonja Lusk
Navarre Beach Department (continued)
PELICAN IN THE GULF
18 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTEconomic development is a team sport and like any team sport, players are brought in and used for their special talents that will develop a winning program. In Santa Rosa County this team is assembled and ready to take that winning shot. Members of our team include various stakeholders such as CareerSource Escarosa, and the Small Business Development Center along with educators from the Santa Rosa County School District, Pensacola State College, and University of West Florida plus our fellow county departments such as development services, engineering, and road and bridge just to name a few. These entities, along with our utilities and cities help all those pieces come together with the final result being job creation for Santa Rosa County.
The economic development office focuses on three major pieces of the economic development puzzle; recruitment, retention and expansion. Recruiting new companies to move to Santa Rosa County and create jobs is just one of the pieces of the puzzle. Once companies call Santa Rosa County home, economic development staff have a business retention program that helps the company retain their employees and grow their business allowing for that final piece of expansion.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
6491 Caroline Street Suite 4Milton, FL 32570
santarosaEDO.com
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Successfully completed the Gulf Power Site Certification Program for two county owned sites including 135 acres in the Santa Rosa Industrial Park East located off Jeff Ates Road in East Milton and 90 acres in the Northwest Florida Industrial Park at I-10, acquiring information that included:
o All environmental/archaeological/wildlife studies completed o Showing all utilities are near/adjacent to site and meet site certification standards o Develop topographic surveys to showcase flat-level terrain of each site o Identifying the site as a Zone C, which is an area of minimal flooding through FEMA Flood Maps
• Since site certification of the two sites, approximately two-dozen site location consultants and companies have shown interest in the property, resulting in more than 10 site visits from these interested parties.
• Celebrated the opening of the newly constructed 190,000 square foot Goldring Gulf Distributing facility in the Santa Rosa Industrial Park. The company, a multi-line beverage distributor, will employ over 200 and will service the northwest Florida region.
• Conducted 58 existing industry visits to provide information on state and local programs like incumbent worker training grants, NWFL Manufacturing Council, machinery and equipment sales tax exemption. These visits also help identify what common barriers to growth companies are seeing which in turn assists economic development staff in helping them overcome those barriers.
• Assisted companies with workforce issues by making the connections through CareerSource Escarosa and other workforce entities such as the Transition Assistance Program for separating military and also through the local Career Academies and Technical School graduating students.
• Hosted Secretary of Commerce Bill Johnson, showcasing our three industrial parks, and touring numerous companies.
• Managed over 20 active projects in the following sectors: o Aviation and Defense o Advanced Manufacturing o Customer Contact Centers o Building Components o Logistics and Transportation o Cyber Security
• Managed the expansions of five existing industries in the following sectors: o Manufacturing o Distribution o Education and Training
STRAND CORE WORKER
NEW GOLDRING GULF DISTRIBUTING FACILITY
19 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C HUMAN RESOURCES
Human resources is comprised of two departments, personnel and risk management. Together, they provide extensive human resource management services and strengthen the fair and equitable application of rules, policies and procedures across county departments. The core functions are to provide technical assistance, advice and guidance to departments and their employees on a variety of employer‐employee topics. Such topics include federal and state employment‐related laws and regulations, human resources policies and disciplinary actions.
The personnel department is responsible for providing a centralized program for personnel administration for approximately 351 board of county commission employees. The department provides recruitment and referral of applicants for authorized county positions, administers the position classification and pay plan, organizes employee benefit programs, coordinates training and career development programs, oversees health and wellness programs, and ensures fair and equal treatment of employees and applicants. The department also provides recruitment assistance and personnel procedural information to the clerk of courts, property appraiser, sheriff’s office, supervisor of elections, and tax collector.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Employment applications received and evaluated for minimum qualifications - 2,163• Eligible employment lists certified to departments for hiring - 94• Certified applicants referred to hiring departments - 923• Employment announcements and postings - 70• Web page employment page views - 44, 306• Employee separations - 37 - 13 resigned, 19 retired, two dismissed, three released during probation• Position descriptions created and/or revised - 90• Prepared and processed personnel actions - 738• Organized and facilitated employee orientations - 62 orientations, 63 attendees
PERSONNELDEPARTMENT
6495 Caroline Street Suite HMilton, FL 32570
santarosa.fl.gov/hr
Personnel
The average employee age is 48 and the average employee salary is $37,134.54?DID
YOUKNOW
Rhododendron Bloom by Scott Markel
Ibis Birds in Flight photo by Aleta Floyd
20-2425-3031-3738-4546-5455-5960-75
13324262967855
# OF EMPLOYEES AGE OF EMPLOYEES
20 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C HUMAN RESOURCES
From top to bottom: Church with Cotton photo by Ron Strickland, Butterfly Flower photo by JoLynn Peoples and Blackwater Bay photo by Tammy Simmons
The risk management department is responsible for administering the processing and adjusting of all claims made against the board of county commissioners, clerk of courts, property appraiser, sheriff’s department (property only), supervisor of elections and tax collector. Safety training and inspections are also handled through this department.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Reviewed certificates of insurance and contracts for those doing business with Santa Rosa
County and those using county facilities• Worked with a third party administrator, physicians, rehabilitation nurses and
attorneys on auto liability, general liability and workers’ compensation claims• Adjusted 24 new workers’ compensation claims and continued maintenance of
ongoing claims from previous years• Adjusted 91 new claims comprised of 22 auto claims, three equipment claims, 32
general liability claims and 34 property loss claims, along with continued maintenance of ongoing claims
• Conducted indoor air quality/mold testing in areas of concern• Attended mediations and hearings related to liability and workers’ compensation
claims• Continued maintenance of the county’s property schedule• Worked to insure ADA compliance of county facilities• Coordinated employee safety awards• Managed the county’s safety shoe program• Generated loss-analysis reports reflecting all claims against Santa Rosa County• Attended workshops and completed online courses required to maintain
insurance licenses• Worked with department leaders in an effort to reduce lost-time expenses by
placing injured employees in light-duty positions when possible• Continued maintenance of all material safety data sheets for county departments• Submission of forms, as required by the Florida Department of Financial Services• Generated insurance billing to county departments
RISKMANAGEMENT
6495 Caroline Street Suite IMilton, FL 32570
santarosa.fl.gov/hr
Risk Management
21 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
CThe grants department provides grant writing, grant research, grant management and project management assistance to county departments. This year the grants department assisted other departments with the management of over 55 grants totaling more than $13 million in state and federal funding. These grants are for a variety of projects including drainage improvement projects, flood mitigation projects, housing projects, park projects, sewer extension programs, emergency management preparedness programs, disaster recovery public assistance programs, and transportation improvement projects.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Defense Infrastructure Grant funds of approximately $304,000 were expended to purchase property and restrictive easements around NAS Whiting Field to prevent further encroachment and incompatible development.
• Managed construction of a fishing pier at the Bagdad Mill Site with Coastal Partnership and Land and Water conservation funding. It is expected that the park will be open to the public in May 2016.
• Secured flood mitigation assistance program grant funds to elevate two flood-prone properties in Milton and Pace.
• Completed the elevation of two repetitively flooded properties in Milton and Gulf Breeze utilizing flood mitigation assistance program grants.
• Secured hazard mitigation grant funds for two stormwater drainage projects in the Pace Lane/Patterson Lane area of Pace and the Ranchettes Subdivision in Gulf Breeze. Design will take place in 2016.
• Secured a Florida Recreational Development Assistance Program grant in the amount of $50,000 for improvements to Navarre Park.
• Assisted with Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill funding opportunities, including the Natural Resource Damage Assessment process and the RESTORE Act.
• Developed a draft multiyear implementation plan including 15 projects totaling $3.7 million to be implemented with RESTORE Act direct component funds available to Santa Rosa County.
• Completed and closed out an economic development trust fund grant project to construct a rail line to service the expansion of Gulf Cable in the Santa Rosa County Industrial Park.
• Completed the Florida Defense Support Task Force grant-funded project to remove a derelict carwash and improve line of sight for the NAS Whiting Field main entrance.
• Secured Florida Defense Support Task Force grant funds to update the Land Acquisition Study that was completed in 2003 in conjunction with the Joint Land Use Study.
• Received and processed 502 Health Care Responsibility Act, or HCRA, applications. Fifty-five applications were approved, resulting in 12 claims received, of which five were approved and paid in the amount of $18,744.59.
• Secured an FDOT Beautification Assistance Grant in the amount of $171,300 for the Andorra Street to Ortega Lane segment of Highway 98 in Navarre.
• Continued management of FEMA Public Assistance Program funds for the April 2014 flooding event.
• Participated in the Local Mitigation Strategy Plan Update process for 2016-2021.
• Participated in the FEMA High Water Mark Initiative Pilot Project.
HUMAN RESOURCESGRANTSDEPARTMENT
6495 Caroline Street Suite HMilton, FL 32570
Grants
GULF CABLE RAIL EXTENSION
HIGH WATER MARK INITIATIVE
EAST MILTON ELEVATION PROJECT
REMOVAL OF DERELICT CAR WASH BEFORE AND AFTER
22 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C HUMAN RESOURCES
Santa Rosa County libraries offer a wide range of services to its citizens. Library cards are free to Santa Rosa County residents and property owners, and Pensacola Beach residents. Library cardholders have access to bestselling fiction and nonfiction, both popular and classical music, current and classic movies and television series, as well as public computers and free wi-fi. Meeting rooms are available at the Gulf Breeze, Milton and Navarre libraries and most of the libraries have study rooms. Library patrons may also use their library cards to access numerous databases either inside the library or in their homes. For more information or to access the library’s online resources, please visit the Santa Rosa County Library website at www.santarosa.fl.gov.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Number of library visits: 279,373• Items added to collection: 17,101• Items checked out: 420,730• New library cards issued: 5,159• Reference questions answered by library employees:
64,376• Computer uses: 29,630• Meeting room uses: 829 uses with 10,450 attendees• Scholarship Student Volunteer Hours: 901 hours by 23 students• Adult Volunteer Hours: 1,119 hours by 21 adults• Youth Programs and Attendance: 86 with 2,367 attendees• Summer Reading Program Attendance: 2,936• Adult Programs and Attendance: 85 with 2,158 attendees • Items provided for outreach: 5,185 with 13 outreach facilities• Voter registration forms received: 128• Tax assistance provided to more than 1400 citizens by
AARP through the use of library meeting roomsIT’S NEW @ YOUR LIBRARY
• This year the library system received five A.W.E Early Literacy Stations through a Library Services Technology Act Grant. These interactive computers are designed for children ages two-eight and feature over 4,000 activities that promote learning. The activities included in the software promote literacy in math, science, social studies, geography, reading and writing, art, music, and computer skills. Since adding the A.W.E Stations in February, these attractive computers have had more than 1,500 uses by some of our youngest patrons.
• EBooks have arrived at the Santa Rosa County Library System! Library patrons may select from over 250 bestselling adult and teen titles through AXIS 360, 75 titles through OneClick Digital, and younger patrons can select numerous titles through Tumblebooks.
Library Services LIBRARY SERVICES 6275 Dogwood Dr. Milton, FL 32570
850.981.7323 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/libraries
NEW A.W.E. EARLY LITERACY STATION
SEARCHING FOR EBOOKS
EBOOKS ARE HERE!
SUMMER READING PROGRAM AT NAVARRE LIBRARY
ARTISTS AND AUTHORS DAYLearning at the Library photo by Ginny Palmer
23 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
The office of management and budget, or OMB, is responsible for working with the county administrator in developing a fiscally conservative financial plan to achieve the goals of the board of commissioners. OMB provides fiscal analyses of proposed county endeavors and state mandates to ensure the fiscal impacts are manageable, and adopted policies provide Santa Rosa County taxpayers with the most value for the dollar.
Additionally, OMB coordinates the Municipal Service Benefit Unit, or MSBU, process for new projects and monitors more than 70 lighting and a dozen paving/water/sewer and canal projects.
Balancing state and departmental requirements with sustainability, resource efficiency, and minimal burden on the taxpayer proves more challenging each year. After evaluation of the county’s needs and lengthy discussion of possible revenue streams to meet these needs, the 2016 budget maintained the millage of prior years and added an additional six cents of gas tax to meet the county’s transportation needs.
As the 2017 budget process begins, OMB will meet the challenge of responsible stewardship seeking additional funding sources to meet the continuing needs of Santa Rosa County.
Photos on right top to bottom: Adventures Unlimited Zip Line photo by Sheila Fitzgerald, Purple Flowers photo by Linda Leccese, Yellow Flowers photo by Aleta Floyd, River View photo by Darliene Stanhope, and Sunset photo by Kim Gallagher
The procurement department is responsible for all aspects of the county bid process including the review of bid specifications, development and submittal of the advertisement of each bid request in accordance with the Florida statutes associated with each one, notification to vendors of each project or item up for bid, receipt and review of bid submissions, maintenance of the files related to each bid request, and maintenance of the list of registered vendors (currently numbering more than 2,500).
Budget Office BUDGET OFFICE 6495 Caroline Street Suite L Milton, FL 32570
850.983.1853 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/budget
All Santa Rosa county approved budgets and budget amendments can be found at santarosa.fl.gov/budget
?DIDYOUKNOW
Procurement
PROCUREMENT 6495 Caroline Street Suite G Milton, FL 32570
850.983.1870 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/bids
24 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
The Santa Rosa County Information Technology (IT)/Geographic Information System (GIS) Division provides technical and mapping support for over 40 divisions and agencies and fulfills map and public record requests for the public. The IT/GIS department supports and maintains over 1,000 various types of technology equipment such as PC’s ,tablets, servers, network equipment, printers, and GPS equipment. The department also provides full telecommunications support for all county departments and other elected official offices such as the clerk of courts, property appraiser, supervisor of elections, state attorney, public defender and the judicial offices in the courthouse. The telecommunications support is for over 700 phones, fax lines, and security systems along with support for over 200 cell phones. The software support staff maintains and supports county databases, creates and maintains hundreds of county software programs both written in-house and purchased. This department supports the Emergency Operations Center and staff is on standby to work around the clock during activations along with supporting operations with the paging system, and E911 mapping.
NEW HIGH SPEED PUBLIC WI-FI IN COUNTY BUILDINGS, EOC, AND PUBLIC LIBRARIESA new high-speed, secure public wi-fi is now available in all county buildings in order to meet the needs of our customers who depend on wireless access to conduct business. It also allows county employees to have better access to their work files as they travel to different county buildings for meetings, etc, which increases work efficiencies and productivity. The new wi-fi in the Emergency Management building has additional benefits by allowing business partners who help support the EOC during activations to have a secure private connection back to their business data centers. The libraries have had wi-fi for several years, but the speed has been doubled to meet the demands of the library customers who bring their own device for free Internet access. Over 2,150 unique devices have been brought into the libraries by customers over a recent six-month time period. The public wi-fi also provides a great service to those renting the county auditorium. Vendors can now easily process credit card payments for customers during sales events.
BROADCAST OF PUBLIC MEETINGS TO ALL DEVICES AND DIGITAL FEED UPGRADESIn years past, the streaming of the county meetings were best suited for personal computers. But with the trend of people using mobile devices today more than pc’s such as tablets, iPads, and smart phones to access the web, the county now streams all public meetings using the latest technology that will auto detect device screen size and will adjust the meeting stream accordingly. This was done to ensure all customers were reached across all platforms and devices that are interested in watching public meetings. For citizens who attend the public meetings in the county commissioners meeting room, the quality of the presentations displayed on the large wall projection screen have been improved by upgrading to a high definition digital feed. Thus projected PowerPoints and images are much sharper and easier to view as one follows the agenda items on the screen.
COUNTYWIDE TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE MILESTONES• Over 2,100 work tickets requesting technology assistance were completed by staff as they support over 1,000 computer devices, 700+
phones and 200+ cell phones• The county’s website and data access connections that allows citizens to search county databases for pertinent data had major
security firewall upgrades which provides a critical layer of protection. This was a joint effort with the State of Florida’s Department of Management Services using F5 Technologies company to prevent malicious intrusion attacks.
• The internal web services servers were replaced to latest version of intelligent detection protection software along with the email firewall system.
• The Tourist Development Office and Blackwater Soil Conservation Jay Office was networked and added to the county network system after a new ethernet connection was installed.
• Network services were expanded for the new Veterans Service office in Jay.• Two hundred county cell phones were replaced and upgraded to current models to ensure staff has solid communication links for not
only safety reasons but also to ensure staff is accessible outside of the office for customer calls.
Continued on Page 25...
IT/Geographic Information System IT/GIS DEPARTMENT 6495 Caroline Street Suite L Milton, FL 32570
850.983.1840 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/gis
25 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
COUNTY SOFTWARE MAJOR REVISION RELEASESSince the county has in-house programming staff, millions of dollars have been saved over the years as opposed to buying expensive commercial counterparts that also require hefty annual maintenance fees. This fiscal year, the trend of saving taxpayer dollars continue by creating new county office software and implementing software enhancements to existing apps as employees make specific requests to improve efficiencies. Constant team effort!• A new “Go Work Orders” app was created to assist park and building maintenance support staff with reporting and tracking service requests of repairs needed at county public parks and county buildings. Statistical reporting is also available to the staff and management to analyze trends and issues.• All county apps received software and database upgrades such as the GoPermitsMobile which continues to assist the building inspectors with their daily inspections of construction to new and existing residential and commercial buildings all from the convenience of their smartphones.• GoBiz – software enhanced by improving tracking and search options for development services staff.• GoPermits – customer service features of this building permits app was expanded to provide additional inspection feedback reports to the building contractors. Also the new permitting fees and calculator tools were updated to assist staff.• GoCompliance was updated with a new automatic reminder call system of outstanding compliance issues
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM - COUNTY MAPPING DIVISIONThe GIS mapping staff’s main job function is to create and provide maps to county departments and managers and also per request for businesses and citizens. One of the most popular features on the county website is the ability for citizens to search for data on maps and create custom maps on the fly just by entering their address. Please visit www.santarosa.fl.gov/gis for your mapping needs.
GIS Milestones:• This year GIS staff worked diligently with E911 staff as they upgraded their computer dispatch center software to a more GIS mapping centric system. This joint effort was needed to ensure the mapping was updated to latest routing standards to
quickly identify the location of an emergency along with the best route to travel for the responders.• Key map layers provided for the new Reverse911 GeoCast system.• New and current wall maps with street and hydrant locations were created for fire departments per their customized specifications. These maps also assist with providing joint aid to other fire districts. • New 2016 map books of the entire county, including color map pages of Navarre Beach, were printed and are available for sale to the public at the development services building.
GIS STATISTICS• Over 111,000 residential and commercial buildings identified for structure layer which is needed
not only by E911 dispatchers but all county departments.• A total of 15,918 street segments with attached street details used by public works road and bridge daily, along with details on 177
identified bridges and over 500 retention ponds.• Over 30,000 street signs are mapped and used daily by road and bridge. • A total of 6,138 fire hydrants are identified. This critical data is used by E911, fire departments and water utilities. • Over 400 billboards are mapped to assist development services staff.
DOCUMENT/IMAGING STATISTICSA total of 182,571 pages, or 40,674 documents, were added to the county’s document and imaging system.
IT/Geographic Information System (continued)
Map Book includes: Master street listings, commission districts, bridges, retention ponds, county owned parcels, county fiber, subdivisions, mobile home parks, campgrounds/RV parks, railroad crossings, railroads, waterways, parks, boat ramps, fire stations, libraries, hospitals, multi-unit structures, governmental offices, landfills/transfer stations, schools, sheriff substations, jails/prisons, public beach access, dune walkovers, and municipalities.
Map Book Compiled by the Board of County Commissioners Computer/GIS Department
2016-2017 Public Works Map Book by Commission District
SANTA ROSA COUNTY
2015 PW Map Book Cover.indd 1 12/2/2015 11:37:01 AM
Santa Rosa County 2016/2017 Offic ial Map Book
Compiled by the Board of County Commissioners Computer/GIS Department
www.santarosa.fl.gov
Includes master street listings, parks, boat ramps, fire stations, fire hydrants, sheriff office sub stations, schools, hospitals, public beach accesses, subdivisions, railroads, apartment complexes, mobile home/RV parks, libraries, waterways and municipalities.
Also includes a color Navarre Beach section with multi-purpose paths, buildings, parcels, pavilions, restrooms, lifeguard towers, and aerials.
2015 Map Book Cover.indd 1 9/15/2015 12:40:11 PM
26 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
Continued on Page 27...
Throughout the years animal services has served the citizens of Santa Rosa County as both the animal shelter and animal control. The goal is to educate the public about responsible pet ownership as well as enforcing state laws and county ordinances. The shelter receives animals for various reasons, such as: owner surrenders, euthanasia requests, roaming at large, nuisances causing destruction to private property, aggressive behavior, endangering public, and injured animals in need of medical attention.
Animal control officers respond to regular calls for service between 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is anafter hours on-call officer who responds through the dispatch center at emergency communications, between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. One animal control officer is available for emergency calls on weekends and holidays. The on-call officer can be reached for emergencies at 850-983-5372. They face many challenges everyday, such as animal bites, injured animals, citizen complaints, as well as impound stray animals, issue citations for ordinance violations, investigate cruelty/neglect cases, and prosecute court cases.
The kennel technicians work hard everyday to ensure the animals we receive, whether strays or owner surrenders, are kept in a clean environment, watered and fed, and stay healthy so that they may be able to be adopted if they meet the criteria. Pets available for adoption are screened for heartworms, given vaccinations, de-wormed, and temperament tested before they are put up for adoption. There is an application and short interview process to adopt with a minimal fee, plus the cost of altering and rabies vaccination.
Animal Services is located at 4451 Pine Forest Road in Milton, just off of Old Bagdad Highway. Hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with kennel/adoption hours from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Night drop boxes for stray or owned animals are offered to the citizens after business hours from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. You can also visit the website at www.santarosa.fl.gov/animals that is updated hourly to view the services and see pictures of the stray and adoptable animals, plus other helpful information.
The Partners for Pets program has continued to make a huge impact by aiding in getting the adoptable animals spayed or neutered and vaccinated for rabies in preparation for their new homes. This program is made possible through donations to the shelter by the citizens as well as contributions from different organizations and fund-raising projects.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 STATISTICS
Total adoptions | 613
• Animals transferred to rescue | 529• Animal control officer responses | 7,153• Animals in shelter | 7,537• Animals returned to owner | 613
Animal ServicesANIMAL SERVICES 4451 Pine Forest Road Milton, FL 32583
850.983.4680 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/animals
Although the shelter does rescue hundreds of dogs and cats every year, from time to time there are also wildlife and animals of nature that need saving!
?DIDYOUKNOW
Pig, birds, rabbits, goat and possum photos provided by Jeni Arn and duckling, skunk, turtle and deer photos provided by Audra Mullins
27 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• On October 18, 2014, animal services held its 8th Annual Adopt-a-Thon which was a great success as always. The theme was Superheroes Wanted: Mission…Adopt A Pet! All the animals were altered and the adoptions were $20. There were over 20 vendors that made donations of food, gift certificates, and merchandise, as well as participation at the event. There was also food, games, special guests, and fun to be had by all.
• In honor of Dominic Persichini, who served as the shelter’s director from March 2003-September 2013, a new sign was installed in the animal services lobby in recognition of his hard work and dedication to this department and to the citizens of Santa Rosa County.
• Animal Services fifth year of approval and participation in the Florida Animal Friend Low Cost Spay/Neuter program was a great accomplishment. The grant was for $25,000 which helped 377 families of Santa Rosa County get their pets spayed or neutered.
CONTINUED PARTNERSHIPSAnimal Services continues to partnership with different businesses and organizations throughout the county.
• This fiscal year there were 102 cat adoptions through partnering with Petsmart.
• Through the Healthy Pet Program, local veterinarians alternated to donate one to two hours of their time per week to evaluate shelter animals who needed medical attention.
• Mediacom continued their support for the eighth year by airing monthly videos on channel 27 of individual pets taped at the shelter to promote adoption by showing each pet’s personality and history.
• The shelter continues to offer pet safety programs to the schools in Santa Rosa County.
• The shelter collaborates with many pet rescues all over the state, and a few out of state, in transferring animals to find homes that may be otherwise unadoptable due to health, special needs, or breed.
Photos top to bottom: Dog in the Creek by Casey Smith-Cavazos, Bluebird by Darliene Stanhope, Pepper by Ginny Palmer, Goat by Cheryl Powell, Heron on the Beach by Sonja Lusk, Deer by Cheryl Powell, Sascha on the Go by Karen Haworth, Soundside Pelicans by Connie King, and Giraffe at Gulf Breeze Zoo by Aleta Floyd
Animal Services (continued)
28 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
The Santa Rosa County Development Services Center provides many services to our customers enabling the county to maintain high standards of building integrity and to preserve property values. Development Services’ goal is to help customers understand and meet the requirements that may apply to their project as promptly as possible. The department seeks to facilitate an efficient and effective development process that supports economic growth and development. These processes include land use approval, plan review services, inspections, floodplain management, sign regulation, contractor licensing, tree preservation, and code compliance.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• A total of 8,246 building permits were issued. Of this total, 1,437 were new living units and 55 were new commercial units
• Estimated cost of construction for all projects was $293,176,999
• Conducted a total of 107 pre-application meetings with new customers
• Selected by FEMA as High Water Mark Initiative Community
• Sponsored 58 applicants for contractor licensing
DEVELOPMENT REVIEWWhat is land use review? Site plans are reviewed to ensure the proposed use of the land is allowed by the zoning designation of the property. In addition, all projects are reviewed for consistency with the land development code and comprehensive plan requirements such as parking, access, tree protection, landscaping, and signage.
What is building plan review? Building plans are reviewed through a process of validating the plans to ensure the plans conform to the regulatory requirements of local, state and sometimes federal regulations. Depending on the occupancy of a building, plan review disciplines may consist of one or more of the following:
• Building• Electrical• Plumbing• Mechanical• Fire/Life Safety• Energy
Staff continues to monitor the plan review workload closely and will take the appropriate measures to address workload increases that exceed their ability to meet stated timelines.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Commercial site plan applications - 61
• Commercial building plan applications - 439
• Residential building plan applications - 3,918
• Subdivision plat applications - 4
• A total of 178 projects was added to the department project management list
Continued on Page 29...
Development Services DEVELOPMENTSERVICES 6051 Old Bagdad Highway Milton, FL 32583
850.981.7000 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/developmentservices
There are many types of trees that are protected and cannot be removed without a permit. It pays to check first before clearing land or removing a tree.
?DIDYOUKNOW
29 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
PERMIT SERVICESThe permit services section is responsible for the intake of permit applications, permit approval coordination and issuance of permits in accordance with the approved plans and/or intended construction work and development orders. Staff has continued to focus efforts on scanning permitted documents. Having documents available electronically has resulted in quicker fulfillment of public records requests.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Issued a total of 18,475 permits
- Building | 8,246 - Electrical | 5,013 - Mechanical | 2,396 - Plumbing | 2,161 - Gas | 563 - Life Safety | 96
INSPECTION SERVICESOver the course of the past year there has been signification progress made towards further customizing the “technology improvement plan.” Each inspector has been equipped with a smart phone that allows them to enter the inspection results into an in-house built program, GoInspector. This software has resulted in inspection results being entered more quickly. Staff continues to evaluate workflows, processes and activities to streamline the inspection process.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Performed a total of 34,083 inspections• Performed a total of 280 life safety/fire prevention periodic inspections of existing commercial structures
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Permits Issued FY 2014/2015
Building
Electrical
Mechanical
Plumbing
Gas
Life Safety
ADDRESSING AND ZONING
• Addressing for new development in the county is handled at the development services office. Several county departments work together in a coordinated approach to ensure addresses are issued in a systematic and logical approach and a correct address is assigned to each residential or business location. During FY 2014/2015, a total of 1,457 new addresses were assigned.
• Zoning division assists customers with the land development code questions and zoning approvals. During FY 2014/2015, a total of 6,288 customers were assisted and a total of 2,062 zoning reviews were performed.
On December 9, 2014, Santa Rosa County and FEMA officials held a High Water Mark Initiative (HWM) event at the Navarre Park located on US98 near the foot of Navarre Beach Bridge. This event was to unveil the first of thirteen HWM signs to be located throughout the county to mark the point of the highest water level during Hurricane Ivan in 2004. The event was to also draw attention to Santa Rosa County’s proactive approach to flood risk mitigation and encourage citizens in low-risk areas to buy flood insurance at the low-cost preferred rate, as well as to raise awareness about the risk of flooding. In addition to the Navarre Park HWM sign, signs have been strategically positioned at the following locations:
• Shoreline Park Boat Launch• Navarre Visitors Center• Riverwalk on Blackwater River• North side of Avalon Bridge• Oriole Beach Boat Ramp• Navarre Beach Park
Continued on Page 30...
• Bay Bridge Boat Launch (west side of Gulf Breeze Parkway)• Carpenter’s Park Boat Launch• Andrew Jackson Drive Boat Launch• Russell Harbor Landing Park• Deaton Bridge• Woodlawn Beach Boat Ramp• South side of Avalon Bridge
Development Services (continued)
The fifth edition of the Florida Building Code went into effect on June 20, 2015.?DID
YOUKNOW
30 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
Housing program efforts focus on utilizing state and federal funding to improve housing conditions and to increase home ownership opportunities for low and moderate income families. During the past fiscal year, 73 families were assisted and $503,000 was invested to support affordable housing initiatives, compared to 50 families and $503,000 in fiscal year 2013/2014.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Florida’s State Housing Initiatives Partnership, or more commonly known as the SHIP Program, awarded: o Down payment and closing cost assistance to 37 families to help with the purchase of their first home, up from 14 last fiscal year. o Assistance with rehabilitation work to address safety/sanitary issues and building code violations for 12 low income homeowners
• Housing and Urban Development partnership Initiative through the Escambia Consortium, known as the HOME program, awarded: o One low-income rehab/reconstruction project. o Assistance with down payment and closing costs for 18 low-income homebuyers.
• Fair housing activities were held throughout the year to share information on housing rights. The policy of Santa Rosa County is to promote through fair, orderly and lawful procedure the opportunity for each person to obtain housing of their choice, without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, familial status, handicap, or age.
ZONING BOARDThe Zoning Board hears all requests for rezoning, future land map amendments, variances, conditional uses, special exceptions and changes to the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan. The board meets once a month and heard a total of 153 cases during FY 2014/2015 compared to 115 total cases in the FY2013/2014.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• Rezoning case - 20• Variance cases - 89• Conditional use cases - 39• Special exception cases - 5
CODE COMPLIANCESanta Rosa County understands the need to enforce minimum standards and to ensure a reasonable quality of life for our residents and neighborhoods. The Code Compliance Division is committed to effective enforcement of the Florida Building Code, Santa Rosa County Land Development Code, adopted ordinances of the county and also investigates contractor complaints. The department is committed to securing voluntary compliance whenever possible and only resort to a judicial proceeding when necessary to gain compliance.
In July 2015, the board approved the revised code enforcement ordinance, which creates the ability for cases to be heard more quickly by its own magistrate. This created a mechanism for quicker compliance in unresolved cases.
During FY 2014/2015 the code compliance section received 621 new cases of complaint.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS • Issued 21 citations• Closed 571 cases• Hired site inspector to perform site inspections and assist with compliance investigations.
CODE COMPLIANCE
Total Complaints Received: 621 Total Cases Closed: 571 Total Citations Issued: 21 Contractor Licensing:
1. Sponsorship Applications Completed: 2. Letters of Reciprocity: 3. Letters of exam verification written:
Zoning Violation 444Sign Violation 28
Noise Violation 3Address Violation 0Kudzu Violation 0Erosion Control 4
Abatements 81Building Violation 41
Certified Contractor 4Registered Contractor 8Unlicensed Contractor 8
444
28
3
0
0
4
81
41
4
8
8
0 100 200 300 400 500
Zoning Violation
Sign Violation
Noise Violation
Address Violation
Kudzu Violation
Erosion Control
Abatements
Building Violation
Certified Contractor
Registered Contractor
Unlicensed Contractor
Development Services (continued) HOUSING 6051 Old Bagdad Highway Suite 201Milton, FL 32583
850.981.7076 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/housing
Housing
31 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICESTransportation and Long Range Planning
The departments of transportation and long range planning are tasked with looking at the long-term growth of the county. Staff works with residents as well as local, regional and state agencies in planning for the future. The department’s goals consists of providing a safe, cost-effective, and functional transportation system for all residents of and visitors to Santa Rosa County that appropriately balances access and mobility needs.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS • Managed grant and local funds to provide the door-to-door community transportation service in the rural areas of the county.• Obtained a Transportation Regional Incentive Program grant from the Florida Department of Transportation to fund the Navarre Community Access Road feasibility study.• Coordinated future public transit options with faith-based organizations and Santa Rosa Bridges Out of Poverty. • Submitted eight Transportation Alternative Program applications to the Florida Department of Transportation for sidewalk projects throughout the county.• Obtained state funding to construct sidewalk projects along Hamilton Bridge Road and Glover Lane. Also worked with the City of Milton to obtain state funding to construct sidewalks in the King Middle School vicinity.• Participated in the Escambia/Santa Rosa Community Traffic Safety Team.• Participated in the Florida – Alabama Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and the US 98 Corridor Authority planning processes.• Served with the team that operates Vets to VA Clinics, a shuttle service for Santa Rosa County veterans in need of transportation to the Veterans Affairs Clinic in Escambia County.• Partially completed an Evaluation and Appraisal Report Based update to the county’s comprehensive plan, creating a more locally focused, results based plan for the county’s future growth and development. This project included numerous zoning board and county commission meetings and a total of six public meetings held through the county. • Completed the annual Utility Operational Status Report that provides the board of county commissioners with the opportunity to monitor the ability of the utilities to provide critical infrastructure services to county residents both now and in the future. • Completed a South Santa Rosa County Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan with grant funding from the State Department of Economic Opportunities. This plan is completely citizen based and links citizen ideas for a more walkable/bikeable south Santa Rosa to state and federal plans and priorities. This plan provides a blueprint and forward-moving concept to make south Santa Rosa’s transportation network more linked, multi-modal and to expand mobility and recreational options for resident and visitors. • Submitted a multiuse trail grant to the State Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways and Trails. This project included securing an easement through the Soundside Preserve and a neighborhood to develop a paved trail connection from Soundside Drive to Madura Street in Tiger Point. In addition, design plans and cost estimates were prepared. • Submitted a grant to the State Department of Economic Opportunities to fund a bicycle pedestrian study for the Pace-Pea Ridge area.
Photos top to bottom: Setting Sun by Andrew Hill, Allentown Sunset by Sabrina White, Floridatown Park by Rhonda Royals, Sunset by Aleta Floyd, and Chumuckla Soccer Complex by Tom Lloyd
TRANSPORTATION ANDLONG RANGE PLANNING 6051 Old Bagdad HighwaySuite 201 Milton, FL 32583
850.981.7082 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/transportation
32 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
The mission of Veterans Services is to assist eligible veterans and their families in obtaining Veterans Affairs benefits. These benefit claims include: medical, disability compensation, pension, death/burial benefits, education, and appeals. County staff, one staffed full-time in Milton with one full-time administrative assistant, provided by housing department and one part-time at the South Service Center, assists navigating through VA paperwork, correspondence and other military-related issues. Veterans Services also provides assistance with state of Florida benefits such as homestead tax exemption letters and Florida ID cards for veterans who are 100 percent permanently and totally disabled. Santa Rosa County is home to 23,503 veterans, which is 15 percent of the population.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS• 23,503 veterans call Santa Rosa County home (15 percent of the population)
• 7,113 veterans and 2046 family members were assisted
• Over $1.8 million (tax free) was awarded to veterans or family members
• 278 new claims (new customers) were filed for VA benefits
• 2820 newsletters copied for a veteran service organization
• 2601 items of correspondence was processed
• 21 Assisted Living Facility visits conducted to assist veterans or surviving spouses
• Outreach: seven visits to Santa Rosa Correctional Institute for 80 incarcerated veterans • Participated in Vets to VA Transportation Program, VA Homeless Stand Down, Veterans Day Parade/Ceremony, Memorial Day Ceremony, Veterans Local Network Meetings
• Multiple VA Homeless Grant Program referrals
• Established a pilot office in Jay for north county residents
• Provided Landrum administrative assistance in Midway office
• Employees continue to provide excellent customer service indicated by clients’ comments and thank you cards
Veterans Services VETERANSSERVICES 6051 Old Bagdad HighwaySuite 204 Milton, FL 32583850.981.7155
South Santa Rosa Service Center5841 Gulf Breeze Pkwy.Gulf Breeze, FL 32563850.981.7110 [email protected]/veterans
Photos top to bottom: Board meeting photos provided by PIO office, Memorial Day by Sarah Whitfield, and White Flowers by Aleta Floyd
33 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
Because disasters start locally, county emergency management agencies have a vital role in preparation for, response to and recovery from disasters – both natural and man-made. While emergency management cannot predict what situations will occur, they can prepare by identifying area risks, developing plans and procedures, maintaining prevention programs, identifying resources, along with training and educating the community.
YEAR-ROUND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Emergency and disaster operations planning
• Threat and hazards analysis
• Emergency response coordination
• Coordination of fire/rescue and EMS system
• Promotion of community involvement
• Hazardous materials coordination
• Training, drills and exercises
• Promotion of multi-organization participation
One of the primary responsibilities of emergency management is developing and maintaining a comprehensive emergency management plan. This is the framework within which Santa Rosa County prepares for, responds to, recovers from, and mitigates the effects of a wide variety of disasters, regardless of cause, size or complexity. This plan is continuously being reviewed for updates and modifications. In accordance with Florida Statute 252, this plan is reviewed by the Florida Division of Emergency Management every four years.
Fiscal year 2014/2015 was another interesting year for emergency management. In November a CSX train derailed along Highway 90 just east of Highway 87S. This provided many challenges for first responders who had to secure the area, evacuate local residents, deal with a hazardous materials leak and provide an extended presence to help CSX as they removed the damaged cars. Then in March of 2015 the Blackhawk military aircraft crash occurred in the intercoastal waterway east of the Navarre Bridge. This response required a lot of resources from many different agencies and Santa Rosa Emergency Management helped in the coordination of these resources. An interagency branch was established to help Eglin Air Force Fire manage the incident. Participating agencies included Eglin Fire, Holley Navarre Fire, EM, Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office and USCG along with many other local fire departments.
Continued on Page 34...
EMERGENCYMANAGEMENT 4499 Pine Forest Road Milton, FL 32583
850.983.5360 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/emergency
Emergency Management
Emergency Management is on Facebook! Like their page to get the latest updates on events from natural disasters to safety tips. Check it out at facebook.com/SRCEmergencyManagement.?DID
YOUKNOW
CSX TRAIN DERAILMENT
CSX TRAIN DERAILMENT CSX TRAIN DERAILMENT
34 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Thirty-six CPR Pro classes teaching 207 students
• Sixty-two CPR community classes teaching 1,011 students
• Eighteen CPR and first aid classes teaching 254 students
• Four first aid classes teaching nine students
• Seven EMR classes teaching 67 students
• Twenty-seven school safety site visits
• Seventy-eight hazard analysis of local businesses with extremely hazardous chemicals
• Three Teen CERT classes at two high schools teaching 70 students
• Thirty emergency plan reviews
• Annual emergency operations center training
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS AND ENHANCED 9-1-1Total number of calls answered | 123,482
• 9-1-1 calls received | 64,142 • Administrative calls received | 59,340
FIRE AND RESCUEThe fire service is comprised of 15 departments. Each district has a board of directors which is responsible for district funds. Fire department personnel consists of 65 career firefighters and more than 160 volunteer firefighters who responded to 16,142 calls last year.
• Activated EOC one time for CSX train derailment and responded to the Black Hawk crash site
• Participated in Pensacola Airport exercise
• Participated in active shooter training at Benny Russell Elementary and Santa Rosa County Courthouse
• Participated in the LEPC exercise
• Conducted two ICS 300 classes with 43 in attendance
• Conducted two ICS 400 classes with 47 in attendance
• Conducted a hurricane and recovery exercise
• Ebola preparedness exercises with Santa Rosa Medical Center and Gulf Breeze Hospital
• Tsunami table top exercise
• EMAP Accreditation
Continued on Page 35...
Fire Department Tax Designation
Annual Calls
ISO Rating
Allentown MSBU 255 5/9 Avalon-Mulat Legislative 797 5/9 Bagdad MSBU 573 5/9 Berrydale MSBU 187 6/9 East Milton MSBU 1,059 6/9 City of Gulf Breeze
Municipality 974 4
Harold MSBU 171 6/9 Holley Navarre Legislative 3,044 4/4 Town of Jay MSBU 329 7/9 Midway Legislative 2,213 3 City of Milton Municipality 1,678 6 Munson MSBU 182 7/9 Navarre Beach Special 385 5 Pace MSBU 2,832 6/9 Skyline MSBU 1,463 5/9
Emergency Management (continued)
Santa Rosa County dispatches the Lifeguard-1 helicopter from the Santa Rosa County 911 Dispatch Office. ?DID
YOUKNOW
35 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICESThe county has a ‘no subsidy’ contract with Lifeguard Ambulance Service, which means no tax payer dollars subsidize Santa Rosa’s ambulance service. The provider charges all costs to the patient. Santa Rosa County uses a tiered response system consisting of certified emergency medical dispatchers, medically trained first responders, advanced life support ambulance crews and a dedicated medical director. The complimentary skills and expertise of each partner and their desire to provide the public with optimal patient care create a successful, high performance emergency medical service system.
• EMS calls received | 24,694
LIFEGUARD AMBULANCE REMAINS COMPLIANTLifeguard Ambulance Service is required to maintain a 95 percent compliance to all emergency calls. They have maintained record setting response times for 98 consecutive months and remains 100 percent compliant.
Rural calls: On-scene <18 minutes - 95.36 percent of the timeUrban calls: On scene <10 minutes - 93.39 percent of the time
Emergency Management (continued)
MAINTENANCE PERFORMED IN-HOUSE ON LIFEGUARD AMBULANCE
LIFEGUARD-1 IN THE HANGAR
Lifeguard Remains 100% Compliant“Record Setting Response Times for 98 Consecutive Months”
September 2015 Volume and Response Times 1,817 Requests for Service
Rural Calls: On-scene <18 minutes = 95.36% of Time
Urban Calls: On-scene <10 minutes = 93.39% of Time
50.00
55.00
60.00
65.00
70.00
75.00
80.00
85.00
90.00
95.00
100.00
Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sept.
93.19 92.26
90.37 92.00 92.21 91.47 91.15 92.35 93.39 92.98
94.90
91.95
97.44
93.60 93.94 95.00 94.37 95.36
UrbanRural
Giving Back to the CommunityCommunity Prevention EventsLifeguard participated in several community outreach/prevention initiatives. Lifeguard’s chief and one of the captains attended the round table discussion for “Injury Prevention/Safe Community,” along with representatives from Emergency Management, hospitals, Department of Children and Families, the Health Department, and fire departments. Organized by the Florida Department of Health in SRC and SAFER Santa Rosa, the round table discussion was the first in the safety/prevention series that will focus on issues, such as: falls prevention, water safety, child car safety seats, poisoning, and suicide prevention.
Along with Tom Lloyd from Emergency Management, one Lifeguard ambulance crew and the on-duty captain participated in the drill at Blackwater Correctional facilities. The drill consisted of a demonstration of inmates starting a fire in the laundry room and how the whole campus would be affected. The drill allowed Lifeguard to work with the Blackwater staff, but also to demonstrate
its knowledge and ability to start a triage area during a chaotic emergency. The debriefing at the end was also beneficial, as it gave the entities time to talk through suggestions for system improvements.Furthermore, statewide the Florida Department of Health services led the initiative on World Heart Day within communities. Locally, Lifeguard participated in raising awareness by demonstrating CPR outside its office and at the Senior Day at the Milton Community Center. Lifeguard’s chief of operations was also a guest on 1620 AM radio, where he used the platform to mention the initiative and raise awareness.
36 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC SERVICES
Emergency Management’s website is easy-to-use and mobile friendly! The site offers residents access to valuable information on disaster preparedness, response, recovery, mitigation and community programs. www.santarosa.fl.gov/emergency
?DIDYOUKNOW
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITYThe emergency communications center/911 personnel continue the 9-1-1 Awareness Program which teaches all first graders throughout the county their address and phone number as well as how and when to call 9-1-1. While these men and women work behind the scenes day in and day out 365 days a year you can also find them assisting emergency management with CPR/First Aid classes as well as CERT training. Many of them also volunteer with local charities, community organizations, churches and fire departments. To them their community and neighborhoods deserve the very best whether they are on the clock or on their own time making our county a safer and better place to live.
Emergency Management (continued)
KIDS LEARNING HOW AND WHEN TO DIAL 9-1-1
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TRAINING TO BETTER SERVE THE COMMUNITY
INCIDENT MANAGEMENT TEAM TRAINING HURRICANE EXERCISE
37 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC WORKSThe Public Works Department serves residents by developing and maintaining quality infrastructure relevant to roads, parks and county buildings. The department strives to provide timely services in the most cost-effective manner to enhance the quality of life of Santa Rosa County residents. A major emphasis is placed on professionalism and customer service as the department continually seeks ways to improve service to county residents. This past fiscal year was marked with the retirement of Avis Whitfield. Avis Whitfield served Santa Rosa County for 39 years, and his guidance will be missed. Stephen Furman was promoted to the position of public works director, with Glenn Bailey being hired as the assistant public works director.
Public Works is the largest department under the authority of the board of county commissioners and consists of the roads and bridges, building maintenance and parks departments.
The building maintenance department provides custodial services and building repairs to all county owned buildings, rental buildings and county parks, as well as landscaping and grounds keeping duties. Building repairs include HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, floors, painting and many other repairs. Buildings maintained include the county courthouse, administrative offices, county auditorium, libraries, emergency operations center, health department buildings, the south end annex, and several other office and storage buildings.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Requisitioning materials and assisting volunteers on the Navarre Park public restrooms project
• Completed 124 work orders at Peter Prince Airport
• Completed 218 work orders at county parks
• Completed 1,266 work orders in county buildings
PUBLIC WORKS 6075 Old Bagdad Highway Milton, FL 32583
850.626.0191 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/roads
BUILDINGMAINTENANCE 4530 Spike’s Way Milton, FL 32583
850.623.1569
Building Maintenance
NEW BRIDGE TO THE FOUNTAIN AT VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK
ROOF REPAIRS AT PUBLIC WORKS
NEW LIGHTS INSTALLED AT A COUNTY LIBRARY ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
38 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC WORKS
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Conversion of conference room to a rentable event room | Benny Russell Park
• Hosted Flicks on the Field movie nights | PARA Football Complex
• Rebuilt stairs to announcer stand | PARA Football Complex
• Continued progress toward the opening to the community | Bagdad Mill Site
• Security lighting installed | East Milton Park
• Arena water system installed | June Ates Arena
• Security light added | McCallister Park
• New bridge to fountain, new fencing and renewed paint | Veteran’s Memorial Park
• Replaced trash receptacle and added to passive park crew for trash removal and trimming | Whiting Trail
• Cover for new concession stand installed | Fidelis Community Center and Park
• Contribution given to enhance the junior program | Pace Area Tennis Association
• Provided aid for upkeep and maintenance of city parks | Town of Jay
• Picnic tables provided | Holley Ball Park
• Contribution toward leadership training | Navarre High School NJROTC
• Replaced one play feature in the splash pad | Navarre Park
• Contributed to Christmas in the Park | Navarre Park
• Opened new restroom facility March 20, 2015 | Navarre Park
• Added new trash receptacle | Navarre Park
• Annual Aid | YMCA/Navarre Sports Complex
• Inclusive playground with picnic tables and shelter, upgrades to restrooms and concessions, new scoring tables, bleachers, ATV, benches, and trash receptacle | Navarre Sports Complex
• Installed additional safety netting and refurbished tennis and basketball courts | Tiger Point Park
• Refurbished tennis courts and basketball goals | Villa Venyce
The Santa Rosa County’s parks system offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages including sports programs, camping, picnicking, boating, fishing and wildlife observation. County parks offer year-round recreation for the whole family. The Parks Department maintains 13 recreational parks with athletic fields, one covered and two open horse arenas, 24 boat ramps, 12 basketball courts, two dog park locations, 23 playgrounds, nine tennis courts, and five community centers. Maintenance of these facilities includes mowing, fertilization, herbicide applications, trash removal, and repair of fences, playground equipment, piers, and boat ramps. The parks and building maintenance departments perform all maintenance in the county recreational parks, horse arenas, boat ramps, passive parks and neighborhood parks. The parks department has eight employees who routinely maintain 66 parks with over 500 acres.
PARKSDEPARTMENT 6075 Old Bagdad Highway Milton, FL 32570
850.983.1940 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/parks
Parks
NEW PLAYGROUND AT NAVARRE SPORTS COMPLEX
NEW CONCESSION COVER AT FIDELIS PARKNEW RESTROOMS AT NAVARRE
PARK
NEW EVENT ROOM AT BENNY RUSSELL PARK
REFURBISHING TENNIS COURTS AND BASKETBALL GOALS AT VILLA
VENYCE PARK
39 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC WORKS
The road and bridge department maintains more than 1,500 miles of roadways. Roadway maintenance includes road paving and resurfacing, dirt road grading, drainage work, road shoulder repair, roadside mowing, brush removal, retention pond maintenance, sign installation and repair, traffic signal repair, litter removal and numerous other services. The road and bridge department utilizes four inmate crews to perform manual labor tasks to perform such tasks in a cost effective manner. The department has been able to continually provide all of our assigned services and duties despite significant decreases in budget funding and personnel since fiscal year 2007. Smaller and more specialized work crews have continued to thrive in the quantity and quality of work performed. Work zone foremen Terry Stephens and David Thomas retired during the year after providing over 60 years of combined service to the county.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Resurfaced 64 miles of roadways
• Paved seven miles of dirt roads
• Made significant progress toward completing the Bagdad Mill Site Park
• Restriped Woodbine Road in preparation of the upcoming resurfacing of Berryhill Road
• Replaced and upgraded a significant pipe under Whispering Pines Boulevard
• Repaired major erosion damage to the Floridatown drainage ditch south of Scoggins Street
• Assisted the Florida Forest Service in the construction of a new bridge on Bryant Bridge Road
• Constructed an alternate stormwater discharge along Pace Patriot Boulevard to protect residential properties from flooding
• Repaired erosion caused by the April 2014 flood to the Floridatown outfall ditch
• Completed 3,234 work orders and several hundred incidental work orders
• Continued construction of a concrete multi-purpose path on East Bay Boulevard
• Worked with the county’s engineering consultant to secure RESTORE funding for dirt road paving and water quality projects
• Corrected deficient drainage structures along Harrison Avenue
• Mitigated hazardous shoulder conditions along many major roadways in the county
• Coordinated with the district 4 commissioner and the grants department on the third phase of the US 98 median beautification project that will be funded with a FDOT grant
• Constructed a modified stormwater conveyance for the Pine Forest Road and Highway 90 drainage
• Resolved numerous drainage problems throughout the county
ROAD AND BRIDGE 6075 Old Bagdad Highway Milton, FL 32570
850.626.0191 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/roads
Road and Bridge
WHISPERING PINES CULVERT REPLACEMENT
FLORIDATOWN DRAINAGE DITCH REPAIR
PROGRESS AT BAGDAD MILL SITE
40 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC WORKS
The Santa Rosa County Administrative Services Department provides administration for county owned parks, airplane hangars at Peter Prince Field, road/plat vacation request, county record management compliance and various other services utilizing two full-time employees.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
Parks
• Issued 439 work orders for park related issues - up five percent from last year
• Processed 762 reservations for use of various park facilities - Revenue received from park reservations during the fiscal year totaled $64,054 - up 51 percent from last year. The increase is due to the lease with the Boys and Girls Club
• Management of agreements with host/sports organizations and caretakers
• Assisted in the planning of future projects, renovations, and expansion
• Performed 1,067 background screenings on volunteers associated with sports programming - new Florida Statute requires background screening to be done on an annual basis
• Worked with grants department to identify grant opportunities for parks
• Coordinated and managed the following volunteer projects: - Worked with five scout troops to accomplish their goals - Sam’s Club/Wal-Mart Foundation volunteered 26 hours within county parks and donated $250 toward future park projects
• Maintained parks webpage
Peter Prince Field
• Provided administrative functions for 115 airplane hangars with 98 to 100 percent occupancy - Hangar agreement management and compliance - Biannual hangar inspections - Processing of 128 work orders for repair and maintenance issues during the fiscal year - Staff member to Aviation Advisory Board with administrative functions including writing of meeting minutes during official proceedings
• Performed research, surveys, reports, policy, and more on airport related issues
Record Management Compliance
• Approved and reported to state destruction of 593.39 cubic feet of records for fiscal year 2013-2014. Report due to state by December 31 of each year
Photos provided by Tammy Simmons
ADMINISTRATIVESERVICES 6075 Old Bagdad Highway Milton, FL 32570
850.983.1940 adminservices@ santarosa.fl.gov
Administrative Services
HANGAR INSPECTIONS AT PETER PRINCE AIRFIELD
PETER PRINCE AIRFIELD
FUN AT BENNY RUSSELL PARK
41 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C PUBLIC INFORMATION AND NEWSThe public information office is responsible for coordinating county communications and releasing accurate and timely information to Santa Rosa County residents, the media and board of county commissioners’ employees. The office is tasked with the organization of seasonal campaigns, managing crisis and disaster-related information, as well as the day-to-day management of internal and external communication strategies. The PIO provides services similar to those provided by a full-service communications agency, focusing on heightening awareness of the county’s mission, programs, policies, initiatives and services offered by its 23 divisions. The county public information officer works in the field during emergencies and is available to the media 24/7.
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Responded to over 300 media and resident requests for information and interviews.
• Managed county informational tools including: - Issuing more than 200 press releases and media advisories - Managing the county’s Twitter accounts with over 500 “tweets” from the handles @SRCBOCC and @SRCEDO. - Managing the emergency management and tourist development office Facebook accounts. - Worked with computer staff to keep county website current. - Created and managed distribution of county publications including the 2013/2014 Annual Report to the Citizens, Disaster Preparedness Guide, economic development marketing materials, commission district, employee, development services and economic development newsletters; and other informational web based and printed pieces. - Launched commissioner video newsletter series.
• Provided copy writing, design, media training and other communications support to county departments.
• Responded on-scene to fires, accidents, and weather events to support media and staff.
• Organized and/or assisted county and state organizations with special events.
PUBLICATIONS
DISTRICT MEETING COORDINATION
MEDIA STAGING
SPECIAL MEETING COORDINATION
BOARD MEETING PHOTOGRAPHY
PUBLICINFORMATION OFFICE 4499 Pine Forest Road Milton, FL 32583
850.983.5254 [email protected]
santarosa.fl.gov/news
Santa Rosa County Public Information ▪ 4499 Pine Forest Road ▪ Milton, Florida ▪ 32583 ▪ (850) 983-5254
Feb. 3, 2015 Contact: Public Information Office #150203-RESTORE (850) 983-5254
RESTORE Application Workshop
A pre-application workshop for the first round of Santa Rosa County RESTORE project funding is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 9 at 3 p.m. in the board meeting room located at 6495 Caroline St. in Milton. While attendance is not mandatory, individuals or groups interested in submitting projects to be included in the county’s RESTORE Multi-Year Implementation Plan are encouraged to attend. Approximately $4.3 million is available to Santa Rosa County in the first funding offered through the RESTORE Act. Applicants are asked to review the complete request for proposals, including submittal criteria, guidance, and milestones available at www.santarosa.fl.gov/bocc/restore.cfm before attending the workshop. Questions about the Santa Rosa County RESTORE application process can be emailed before or after Feb. 9 to [email protected] or contact Sheila Harris at (850) 983-1848. This initial release of funding is a small part of an estimated $20-60 million Santa Rosa County is expected to receive once litigation and Clean Water Act fines against BP are finalized. The funding for the county’s multi-year plan, called the direct component, is just one of the many sources of funding associated with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (click here to see flow chart of oil spill funds in Florida).
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PRESENTED BY THE
Santa Rosa CountyBoard of Commissioners
santarosa.fl.gov @SRCBOCC
Working Together for Our Future
Fiscal Year 2013/2014ANNuAl REPORT
to the citizens oF santa rosa countY
Santa Rosa County Division of Emergency Management4499 Pine Forest Road ▪ Milton, FL 32583
(850) 983-5360 ▪ Citizen Information Center (850) 983- INFO or 4636
In Florida, hurricane season is June 1 through November 30, though storms have formed before and after the official season. Modern-day forecasting provides plenty of time to safeguard people and property. Although evacuations are not a top priority when people are on vacation, it is important to monitor the local media or official weather sites:
Santa Rosa County: www.santarosa.fl.govNational Weather Service: www.nws.noaa.gov
National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov
How Will I Know if a Hurricane is Coming?
For more information visit FloridaEvacuates.com
Also available, Florida Evacuates Mobile App!
HuRRICaNe evaCuatIoNS While evacuation orders can be issued at anytime for a variety of safety issues, hurricanes are the most common reason evacuations are ordered in Santa Rosa County as high winds and the potential for severe flooding from storm surge make it dangerous. In the case of a storm, an evacuation may be issued for campgrounds and the beach first. Officials want visitors to have plenty of time to get out of harm’s way as well as to not impede the movement of local residents in the event of a full evacuation. Follow emergency directives in a timely manner when asked, to avoid delays and to leave safely. Boaters also need to respond to the warning quickly because of the extra time needed to secure watercraft.
WHat SHould I do duRINg aN evaCuatIoN?If the threat is not severe, you may wish to stay in a more northern location of the county. For local accommodation information, contact the Santa Rosa County Tourist Development Office at (850) 981-8900 or on the web at www.floridasplayground.com. Other parts of Florida not in the storm’s forecasted track may also be an option. Call Visit Florida at (800) 287-8598 to locate lodging in safe areas.
Staying at a shelter is also available to visitors. However, shelters are crowded, uncomfortable and noisy. A shelter should be considered a last resort. Consider staying in a hotel or with family or friends that are located outside an evacuation zone. A pet friendly shelter is available for visitors who wish to shelter with their cat or dog. Don’t forget your pet’s supplies!
Shelter openings may vary with each emergency. Do not go to a shelter until you have been notified that it is open. We will advise all local media outlets of shelter locations and opening times and will activate the Citizen Information Center phone at (850) 983-INFO (4636). You can also call the Citizen Information Center if you need transportation to a shelter. You will be required to register at the time you enter a shelter.
Once the storm passes, officials will assess damage and safety. If the storm has had little or no impact on the infrastructure, visitors should be able to return quickly, possibly the next day.
Visitors & EvacuationsWelcome to Santa Rosa County
• A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.• Toiletries, personal items and all medications.• Blankets or sleeping bags.• Identification.• Games or toys for children, and books for adults.• Special items for infants or elderly family members.• Any special dietary needs and nonperishable foods for snacks.• Battery operated radio, flashlights and spare batteries.
What to Bring to a Shelter
Stay CoNNeCted
@SRCBOCCfacebook.com/SRCEmergencyManagement
SantaRosa.fl.gov/emergency
Mandatory evacuation Everyone must evacuate the area of danger. It is illegal to stay under a mandatory evacuation order. Access to areas may be restricted. Shelters will open in conjunction with mandatory evacuations. Additionally, traffic control measures are implemented.
Recommended evacuation Residents and visitors in the affected area are encouraged to seek refuge on their own initiative and independently obtain safe accommodations.
FoR SaNta RoSa CouNty, tHeRe aRe tWo typeS oF evaCuatIoNS:
Visitor Evacuation Guide.indd 1 6/10/2015 9:56:14 AM
7th annual santa rosa county animal services adopt-a-thon
Superheroes wanted: mission...adopt-a-pet!
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Opening Ceremony at 9 a.m. with Colors presented by the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets - Whiting Division
Animals adopted during the Adopt-a-thon come with a free spay/neuter voucher or are previously altered. Have pets at home? Please bring proof of current rabies vaccination for your pets.
Activities for KidsCandy Guess -- Color Contest Cutest Pet NameHome Depot Kid’s Workshop Bouncy House Hallelujah Hounds Blue Wahoo’s Kazoo“Smokey Bear” and Fire Safety Prevention @ 9 a.m.
Contests & prizes10:30 - Best Costume11:00 - Best Talent11:30 - “All Bark & No Bite” 12:00 - Dog & Owner Look Alike12:30 - Best of ShowDrawings & more throughout the day!
Bring the entire family for a fun-filled day!Pets are welcome to attend but they must wear current
rabies tag and be on a leash
Santa rosa county animal Services4451 pine forest road in milton
(850)983-4680www.santarosa.fl.gov
Prizesfood
Contact Us
24-Hour Inspection Line: (850) 981-7050
Main:
(850) 981-7000
Fax Number:(850) 623-1208
Winter 2015
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Santa Rosa’s Development Service Center was created to provide a collaborative and comprehensive approach to customer service. The DSC enables residents and property owners to accomplish all of
their development related county business at one location, with the help of well trained and organized county employees.
How’s our customer service? www.santarosa.fl.gov/customerservice/survey.html
South Santa Rosa Bicycle Pedestrian Master PlanSince 2006, there have been 110 crashes involving bikes or pedestrians in the south end of the county, resulting in 19 fatalities. In order to address the increasing conflict between cyclist, pedestrians, and motorist and to find ways to better order our streets for all users, planning department staff applied for a technical assistance grant from the Department of Economic Opportunity to conduct a Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan for the south end of the county. In October, the county received a grant in the amount of $25,000 and staff is using this grant money to contract with the West Florida Regional Planning Council for technical assistance.
The end result of this planning project will be a citizen driven plan for physical bicycle and pedestrian related infrastructure improvements. Some of the infrastructure improvements discussed to date are things like installing sidewalks near schools, constructing a paved connector between Soundside Drive and the eastern side of the Tiger Point neighborhood as part of a designated bike loop, and marking or improving the paved shoulder on Gulf Boulevard to make it safer for bikes. Other critical plan components include the listing of bicycle and pedestrian goals to be used in prioritizing projects and the identification of funding sources. An example of a goal could be something like to increase opportunities for improved community health.
This planning project has been somewhat innovative for the county, in its use of social media such as Facebook, a dedicated project website, project logo creation and the use of internet based feedback mechanisms. So far, this has worked out really well in terms of getting a large amount of citizen input on the front end of the project as well as successfully informing citizens through two way education and information sharing. Through these easily accessible tools, the citizens were able to communicate ideas to staff that will be used to formulate plan recommendations. The plan must be completed by the end of May per the grant specifications and is currently approximately 40 percent complete. Additional public meetings will be held in February to discuss final plan recommendations with the citizens. Additional information can be found by accessing the project Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ssrbpp or by searching for South Santa Rosa County Bicycle-Pedestrian Plan, or the project website at www.ssrbpp.org/.
Pool SafetyRecently, Santa Rosa County Development Services hosted a two hour contractor and inspector continuing education class on the pool safety act. One area of importance that was discussed was “field built sumps” that may be being built in an unsafe configuration creating a potential for entrapment.
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42 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C VETERANS MEMORIAL PLAZA
Veterans Memorial Plaza is dedicated to the men and women of our country who have served in the military armed forces. The location consists of statues to commemorate branches of the military and the memory of the fallen military soldiers. The memorial plaza is located near the riverwalk in downtown Milton.
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VETERANS MEMORIALPLAZA 5191C Willing Street Milton, FL 32570
850.626.7292 vetmemorial@ santarosa.fl.gov
santarosa.fl.gov/vetplaza
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July ceremonies were all conducted at Veterans Memorial Plaza
• Nearing completion of a home for the Daniel Palmer family
• Assisted four veterans in the repair/replacement of their air conditioning units
• Placed 72 bricks in the memorial plaza in honor of the veterans
• Participated in the Vets to VA program. The Vets to VA Clinics program provides scheduled shuttle service for Santa Rosa County veterans in need of transportation assistance to the VA clinic in Pensacola for health care. Vets to VA began service in November 2012 after Operation Connect Vet, which provided a similar service, was suspended in May 2010 due to lack of funds. There are currently 89 veterans signed up for the program. Approximately 378 trips have been made to and from the VA clinic.
Bottom left photo showing presentation of flags at Memorial Day event by Tammy Simmons
43 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C COUNTY EXTENSIONUF/IFAS extension is the county’s access to research-based information developed through the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Through the combined efforts of state and county faculty, staff, volunteers, advisory committees, and local partners, UF/IFAS Extension Programs respond to the needs of area residents. Educational programs are conducted in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, family and consumer sciences, natural resources, marine interest, and 4-H youth development..
FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• The “Northwest Florida Agricultural Innovator of the Year” program, conducted by UF/IFAS Extension and Farm Credit of Northwest Florida, recognized 12 farmers and ranchers across the panhandle for their outstanding agricultural innovation. Jerry Davis of Davis Farms was chosen as Santa Rosa County’s Agricultural Innovator for 2015 and honored at a special ceremony in Monticello.
• Conducted the Northwest District “Extension Beekeeping in the Panhandle Short Course” for the fourth year with 16 other Florida counties. The course consisted of three interactive video sessions and a county “Bee-Yard Field Day.” The team effort taught basic beekeeping topics to 323 new and existing beekeepers, including 24 local residents.
• Conducted a peanut fungicide efficacy demonstration consisting of 14 different fungicide treatments. This demonstration provided area farmers the opportunity to examine peanut fungicide options that are available to them in a side by side comparison. Yield data gathered is used in determining future fungicide programs by our farmers and farmers throughout the peanut production region.
• Over 100 farmers and industry representatives participated in the 2015 Extension Farm Field Day at the West Florida Research and Education Center. Attendees got the latest information on crop genetics and management of cotton, peanuts, and soybeans. They also learned about sesame, a potential new crop for the area.
• Green Industry – Best Management Practices training and certification was provided to 23 local landscapers with 100 percent of participants passing. This will allow the landscapers to apply and obtain a fertilizer application license that became mandatory on January 1, 2014.
• Santa Rosa and Escambia Extension held a “Build Your Own Farm’s Food Safety Manual” workshop for 10 small farmers. Extension agents taught the basics of setting up a farm food safety plan. Food safety plans are an integral part of a farm who wishes to sell to wholesale markets.
• Twenty-three small farmers attended a three-part series on small farm organic production of vegetables focusing on the USDA National Organic Program certification, integrated pest management, and organic production methods.
• Extension hosted a “Spring Field Day” for small farm vegetable production at the UF/IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center. Nearly 40 attendees visited high tunnel trials of organic tomatoes and seedless cucumbers, and field trial of seedless watermelons.
• An advanced horticultural workshop called the “ProHort Series: Tree installation” was held at the University of Florida Milton campus. Thirty-nine landscape professionals learned the details of properly planting containerized and balled and burlap trees into the landscape.
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COUNTYEXTENSION 6263 Dogwood Drive Milton, FL 32570 850.623.3868
5259 Booker Lane Jay, FL 32565
county-extension@ santarosa.fl.gov
santarosa.ifas.ufl.edu
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C COUNTY EXTENSION
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FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• The “Gulf Coast Agritourism and Ecotourism Business Development Conference” was planned and coordinated by a team of extension agents from Santa Rosa and Escambia counties. The two-day conference was held at a local ecotourism business with 76 attendees split evenly between ecotourism and agritourism. The conference focused on teaching agri/ecotourism operators better ways to market and manage their businesses. A follow-up conference is planned for early 2016.
• The Florida Sea Grant Agent coordinated the Great Scallop Search in Santa Rosa County. Twenty-two teams of citizen volunteers were trained and surveyed 22 grids in search of bay scallops in the Santa Rosa Sound. Unfortunately, no scallops were found during the survey, although live scallops were reported in the Sound prior to the survey date. This project supported NRDA funding for scallop restoration in the Santa Rosa Sound.
• The Florida Sea Grant Agent trained and certified 14 local oystermen to receive their oyster harvester education endorsement required by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The agent coordinated meetings with the department to facilitate communication between local oyster harvesters and the shellfish division director on the upcoming NRDA Florida oyster cultch placement project.
• Florida Master Naturalists and citizen science volunteers provided 1,272 hours of volunteer service valued at $27,488 to the Florida Sea Grant marine science extension program in 2015.
• Santa Rosa County 4-H reached more than 5,500 youth through community clubs, school clubs and school enrichment programs. A wide variety of projects were offered to youth including those for new clubs in shooting sports, horse and poultry. 4-H has new clubs all over the county; from Jay to Navarre and everywhere in between. Teen leaders and adult volunteers assisted with the more than100 projects that 4-H has to offer.
• 4-H worked closely with all extension agents to bring their specialty to the youth. Leaning on their expertise in livestock, agriculture, horticulture, entomology, marine science and nutrition education, our 4-H members benefit immensely from the affiliation.
• Nearly 4,000 fourth through sixth grade-students improved their public speaking and communication skills through participation in the annual 4-H Tropicana Public Speaking Program.
• Nearly 50 youth participated in camping with Santa Rosa County 4-H. An additional 150 youth participated in county, district and state contests, workshops and events focusing on the theme of “Learn by Doing.”
• Taught interactive nutrition education programs to 1,717 pre-K through 12th grade students through a total of 585 family nutrition program lessons.
45 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
CFISCAL YEAR 2014/2015 HIGHLIGHTS
• Provided samples of dishes cooked with fresh produce to 400 families participating in the Farm to City Week food basket giveaway event for Thanksgiving. Offered recipes and preservation information for the food the families received. Over 200 participants reported that they learned a more nutritious way to prepare food and more than 100 reported that they used the nutrition information they received the year before.
• Assisted 121 caregivers with installation of 149 child safety seats. Used hands- on training to teach caregivers how to safely and correctly install their own car seats.
• Santa Rosa Home and Community Educators clubs provided 976 volunteer hours, assisting community members through educational programs and handmade resources such as “fidget aprons” for Alzheimer’s patients.
• Santa Rosa County Extension spearheaded a peanut butter drive with counties across the panhandle and collected a record 2,259 pounds of peanut butter for the needy in the county. The Florida Peanut Producers Association donated two pallets of peanut butter in support of the project. Four hundred families at the annual Farm to City Day event in November received a jar and the rest was donated to local food pantries.
• The Residential Horticulture Agent presented 26 programs on vegetable gardening, garden design, citrus, mulch, palm care and other topics to 962 residents.
• Fifteen new master gardeners were trained in 2015 raising the number of Santa Rosa County Master Gardener volunteers to 97. These dedicated volunteers worked 11,486 hours with a value to the county of $243,962 advising residents on Florida-friendly landscaping, volunteering at the Panhandle Butterfly House and teaching youth about horticulture. Master gardeners presented 25 instructional programs to 900 residents.
• A total of 2,180 residents utilized the master gardener plant clinics in Milton, Jay and the South Service Center to obtain advice on their lawns, landscapes and gardens. Free soil pH testing was provided to 319 residents.
• The residential horticulture agent instructed teachers and students at two area elementary schools on planning, planting and maintaining a school vegetable garden.
• Over 14,000 visitors enjoyed the Panhandle Butterfly House, including visitors from 48 states and 18 foreign countries. Nearly 2,000 attended the Annual Monarch Madness Butterfly Festival in October and 500 monarch butterflies were tagged and released in conjunction with Monarch Watch at the University of Kansas. Seventy-five master gardeners and community volunteers contributed over 5,500 volunteer hours to make it possible. The 39 community volunteers contributed 1,786 hours of their time at a value of $37,935 to the county.
• More than 1,000 school children learned about butterfly biology in field trips to the Panhandle Butterfly House.
• Eight seventh grade classes at Woodlawn Heights Middle School received six interactive horticulture trainings from Santa Rosa master gardeners on butterflies, invasive plant species, plant identification, birds, composting and plant propagation.
COUNTY EXTENSION
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C MAPS
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Commission Districts
47 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C MAPS
2010 Census Tracks and Population
48 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C MAPS
County Fire Districts
49 2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORT
C MAPS
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HIGHWAY 4
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WILLARD NORRIS RD
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BERRYHILL RD
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Legend
Zip Codes32542
32561
32563
32564
32565
32566
32570
32571
32583
Disclaimer:The GIS maps and data distributed by the Santa Rosa County BOCC departments are derived from a variety of public and private sector sources considered to be dependable, but the accuracy, completeness, and currency thereof are not guaranteed. The Santa Rosa County Commission makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, currency, reliability, or suitability for any particular purpose of information or data contained in or generated from the County Geographic Databa se. Additionally, the Santa Rosa Commission or any agent, servant, or employee thereof assume no liability associated with the use of this data, and assume no responsibility to maintain it in any matter or form. For further map assistance, call 850 -983-1840 or email: [email protected] . SRC mapping website: http://santarosa.fl.g ov/gis µ
Santa Rosa County Zip Code AreasCounty Zip Codes
2014/2015 SANTA ROSA COUNTY ANNUAL REPORTSanta Rosa County Board of County Commissioners | 6495 Caroline Street | Milton, FL 32570 | www.santarosa.fl.gov
Photos top left to bottom: Navarre Beach Summer by Amy McDonald, Purple Flower by Linda Leccese, Seashells by Sonja Lusk, Jake’s Bayou by Sheila Fitzgerald, Kayaking by Kim Gallagher, Azaleas by Sabrina White, Fall Fun by Ron Strickland, Volleyball Player by JoLynn Peoples, Summer Watermelons by Linda Leccese,
Sunrise by Casey Smith-Cavazos, Navarre Beach Sunset by Sheila Taylor, Clouds by Sarah Whitfield, and Cooper Basin by Sabrina White