JAC BUDGET HEARINGS 01/10/2006

 

 

2006 Budget Hearings, January 10, 2006

#024 State Parks & Cultural Resources, #026 Dept of Workforce Services, #025 Dept of Employment, #008 Public Defender

 

      0 ~ 1/10/2006 8:02:57 AM ~ State Parks & Cultural Resources - 8:00 a.m.-

      0 ~ 1/10/2006 8:02:57 AM ~ Start Recording

     11 ~ 1/10/2006 8:03:08 AM ~ Chairman Hines

     24 ~ 1/10/2006 8:03:21 AM ~ Director Nole. Milward Simpson, Pat Green 2 Governor's Letter #2, start on Exception Budget - #1 p. 18 training & development of employees, recommended approval from Gov. $10,500 of the $50,000 request, cut budget in half.

   3:58 ~ 1/10/2006 8:06:55 AM ~ Noble - does show up correctly on e-org page

   4:31 ~ 1/10/2006 8:07:28 AM ~ Noble-#2 priority workshops around state by SHIPO on landowner rights and procedures

   5:31 ~ 1/10/2006 8:08:28 AM ~ Hines-artifacts?

   5:50 ~ 1/10/2006 8:08:47 AM ~ Noble-yes

   6:02 ~ 1/10/2006 8:08:59 AM ~ Hines- road construction energy projects?

   6:23 ~ 1/10/2006 8:09:20 AM ~ Noble - that is what they would do. #3 to help students learn about history, build trunks for school materials, loan out to communities, court houses, some territorial issues at stake, must protect artifacts.  Gov approved $90,000

   8:32 ~ 1/10/2006 8:11:29 AM ~ Noble - 100 days of arts, re-granting funds to community

   8:51 ~ 1/10/2006 8:11:48 AM ~ Milward Simpson - match $135,000 raised all for granting programs,

   9:48 ~ 1/10/2006 8:12:45 AM ~ Nicholas - what put in for fund endowments vs. operating costs?

  10:08 ~ 1/10/2006 8:13:05 AM ~ M. Simpson - 15 yr. ago endowment program?  Purpose for seed money to create endowments of own. NEA funds also obtained, all have been dispersed, orig. $500,000 pool, would be a valued program to re-fund.

  11:45 ~ 1/10/2006 8:14:42 AM ~ Nicholas - status of Trust fund Board?

  11:55 ~ 1/10/2006 8:14:52 AM ~ M. Simpson - meetings, due to expire in Feb.  Will redraft Cultural Resources plan rules.  Spring expect input from public.

  12:53 ~ 1/10/2006 8:15:50 AM ~ Noble - Gov. Letter was for re-funding

  14:00 ~ 1/10/2006 8:16:57 AM ~ Nobel #5 SHIPO review, our office is busiest tripled requests of next busiest.  Request for 2 extra employees for SHIPO.  Gov. denied based on BLM, but not really work for SHIPO.  Will live with GR, and try  to get their employees more in line with SHIPO guidelines.  May not dous good.

  16:27 ~ 1/10/2006 8:19:24 AM ~ Hines - in Cheyenne office?

  17:07 ~ 1/10/2006 8:20:04 AM ~ Nobel - one in Rawlins + 1 elsewhere, not in Cheyenne

  17:29 ~ 1/10/2006 8:20:26 AM ~ Job-delays?

  17:48 ~ 1/10/2006 8:20:45 AM ~ Nobel - only can go 30 days delay, streamline process - electronic review, goal for 106 reviews is 10 days average.  30 day delay causes significant $ loss

  19:05 ~ 1/10/2006 8:22:02 AM ~ Petersen - if we approved 2 new employees, would it ease backlog?

  19:24 ~ 1/10/2006 8:22:21 AM ~ Nobel - would really help.  Coalbed methane crunch just getting started

  19:53 ~ 1/10/2006 8:22:50 AM ~ Petersen - devestating to state if delay?

  20:11 ~ 1/10/2006 8:23:08 AM ~ Nobel

  20:15 ~ 1/10/2006 8:23:12 AM ~ Nobel - yes, we should try to expedite

  20:47 ~ 1/10/2006 8:23:44 AM ~ Philp - some companies hire own archeologists, do you review their work?

  21:12 ~ 1/10/2006 8:24:09 AM ~ Nobel - yes, we have to review by law.

  21:23 ~ 1/10/2006 8:24:20 AM ~ Philp-

  21:43 ~ 1/10/2006 8:24:40 AM ~ Philp - cited case he knew about - actual examination revealed no chipping or rocks reported originally.  Private land, someone can pick up if made public.  Who?  Downside to making it public.

  23:02 ~ 1/10/2006 8:25:59 AM ~ Nicholas - SHIPO employee issues - applicant submits if private archeologist, or ask agency to have SHIPO do.

  24:03 ~ 1/10/2006 8:27:00 AM ~ Nobel - % of total not sure, we have an archeological review in Laramie. Entry level position with anthropology or archeology background.

  25:20 ~ 1/10/2006 8:28:17 AM ~ Hines - review required - how work around snow and weather obstruction?

  26:02 ~ 1/10/2006 8:28:59 AM ~ M. Simpson - they do operate year around, as possible

  26:32 ~ 1/10/2006 8:29:29 AM ~ Warren - what does 106 review involve?

  26:45 ~ 1/10/2006 8:29:42 AM ~ M. Simpson - federal law review of proposed project if have sensitive site.

  27:29 ~ 1/10/2006 8:30:26 AM ~ Nicholas - when do we send you back to the Gov. for a reconsideration and Gov. letter since he was operating on misinformation.

  28:23 ~ 1/10/2006 8:31:20 AM ~ Nobel, we can live with it, but we could go back.

  28:39 ~ 1/10/2006 8:31:36 AM ~ M. Simpson  #6

  28:56 ~ 1/10/2006 8:31:53 AM ~ WY one of few rural states without a folk art project.  Incredible variety of traditonal arts in WY.  Successfully applied for funds, $40,000 for each of last 2 years, can apply 1 more yr.  Request is for keeping program alive after this funding expires.

  30:53 ~ 1/10/2006 8:33:50 AM ~ Nicholas - how will it ever become self-sufficient?

  31:08 ~ 1/10/2006 8:34:05 AM ~ M. Simpson - will become part of Arts Council budget.

  31:31 ~ 1/10/2006 8:34:28 AM ~ Warren - overlap?

  32:01 ~ 1/10/2006 8:34:58 AM ~ M. Simpson - Arts Council has various programs with specific funding.  Will give you information.  Not overlap.  Blacksmithing, e.g.  Using models used in other states.

  33:04 ~ 1/10/2006 8:36:01 AM ~ Petersen - have municipalities/tribes join in.  45,000 vome over Labor Day weekend an example - perhaps could become self-sustaining.

  34:03 ~ 1/10/2006 8:37:00 AM ~ M. Simpson - Ms. Hatch hired to work with folk art programs and existing folkart festivals.

  34:39 ~ 1/10/2006 8:37:36 AM ~ Anderson - Southern states, students FoxFire books based upon documentation of folk art in Blue Ridge Mtns.  Would it help WY as a model?

  35:50 ~ 1/10/2006 8:38:47 AM ~ M. Simpson - exactly!  Would like to sit down with you on this.

  36:13 ~ 1/10/2006 8:39:10 AM ~ Hines - flow chart on grants requested.

  36:27 ~ 1/10/2006 8:39:24 AM ~ M. Simpson - also do Cultural Trust Fund - yes

  36:42 ~ 1/10/2006 8:39:39 AM ~ Nobel - #7 completion of database not for IT per se.  Can live with GR to deny and look for money elsewhere.

  37:44 ~ 1/10/2006 8:40:41 AM ~ Hines - would this be example of problem Rep. Philp expressed by identifying?

  38:21 ~ 1/10/2006 8:41:18 AM ~ Nobel - this is not public accessible, must have a password, energy companies subscribing to the service. Really a data entry request.

  39:17 ~ 1/10/2006 8:42:14 AM ~ Nicholas - collect data from applicants,  prove to agency that database is wrong, assume applicant is wrong and database is right.  Expense potential great.  Speed up process.

  41:08 ~ 1/10/2006 8:44:05 AM ~ Nobel - crew mostly does highway survey of sites at present and hard to get out.

  41:37 ~ 1/10/2006 8:44:34 AM ~ Nobel #8 Biennial Arts Council - First Lady sponsored, Gov. approved

  42:24 ~ 1/10/2006 8:45:21 AM ~ M. Simpson - First Lady feels she can aid this, tremendously excited.

  42:55 ~ 1/10/2006 8:45:52 AM ~ Nobel - #8

  43:18 ~ 1/10/2006 8:46:15 AM ~ M. Simpson - Gov. denied, project grants, competetive grants - general support

  43:58 ~ 1/10/2006 8:46:55 AM ~ Nobel #10 Veterans Museum - 1 year funding + supplement to this.  GR ok,  Also 5 yr. plan for Veterans' Museum.  Took over from volunteer group.

  45:29 ~ 1/10/2006 8:48:26 AM ~ Petersen - how have things gone with appropriation?

  45:50 ~ 1/10/2006 8:48:47 AM ~ Nobel - Now have supt. who had been at a military facility, works with volunteers, melding both  into a more professional museum.  It is a significant asset, just murals alone are priceless.

  46:52 ~ 1/10/2006 8:49:49 AM ~ Meuli - funding for $41,000 - one-tiime or ongoing funding?

  47:22 ~ 1/10/2006 8:50:19 AM ~ Nobel - ongoing funding to be rolled into budget from last year.

  47:43 ~ 1/10/2006 8:50:40 AM ~ Nobel #11 Cultural records relocating to Anthropology building, specific expensive shelving.  GR approved

  48:28 ~ 1/10/2006 8:51:25 AM ~ Nobel #12 - GR approved

  48:48 ~ 1/10/2006 8:51:45 AM ~ M. Simpson - disconnect between artists and how to partner with agencies that can play a role in community dev.  Modest attempt to provide some assistance.  All funds go into grants.

  50:18 ~ 1/10/2006 8:53:15 AM ~ Nobel #13 Gov. denied, should be in Educ., we will work with them

  50:48 ~ 1/10/2006 8:53:45 AM ~ Nobel #14 Gov. approved

  51:00 ~ 1/10/2006 8:53:57 AM ~ M. Simpson - Reinstate a very popular program that had cut for past funding concerns.  A very important tool - newsletter to state

  51:56 ~ 1/10/2006 8:54:53 AM ~ Nobel #15 SHIPO personal computers, oldest computers, reviewing and creating replacement schedule not now.  GR ok

  52:54 ~ 1/10/2006 8:55:51 AM ~ Nobel #16 - Historic Trails Commission has met, developed rules, GR approved

  53:34 ~ 1/10/2006 8:56:31 AM ~ Nobel #17 -Linda Fabian, Chuck    here, dept. had severed earlier relationship with State Historical Society, I have worked to re-establish relationship. Request includes Annals of Wyoming and WY History Day at UW funds.  Contract employee for 2 years to liasion.  GR approved

  55:44 ~ 1/10/2006 8:58:41 AM ~ Hines - use of state funds?

  56:19 ~ 1/10/2006 8:59:16 AM ~ Nobel - involved selling membership AG

  56:44 ~ 1/10/2006 8:59:41 AM ~ Chuck Lanham, pres. State Historical Society - WY one of few states where State Historical Society is not part of the state organization, have about 1,500 members with 1 staff, all volunteers thru state, $ would be very helpful.  Annuls goes out worldwide.  Need to become a partnership envisioned 15 years ago.

  59:42 ~ 1/10/2006 9:02:39 AM ~ Case - split, state employee working for a non-profit. Arts Council similar, other models? Boys/Girls Scouts - should they be supported?  Blending concerns, but not knocking the mission.

1:01:07 ~ 1/10/2006 9:04:04 AM ~ Nobel - Don't want to make full employee, controlled by dept. but as a liasion with Historical Society.

1:01:50 ~ 1/10/2006 9:04:47 AM ~ Case - how different from other non-profits?  Why special?

1:02:14 ~ 1/10/2006 9:05:11 AM ~ Nobel - mission of dept is history, unlike other non-profits.  Dept. focus on history of state.  Positon would help.

1:03:33 ~ 1/10/2006 9:06:30 AM ~ Case - DFS support family, lots of non-profits cooperate to fulfill mission, Why not have state publish Annuls of WY

1:04:43 ~ 1/10/2006 9:07:40 AM ~ Jorgensen - agree Annuls is fragile and has sustained well, Teton Co. broke away from state group for some reason.  Need to tie state together.  How to be done.  Funding the magazine deserves to be done while going thru study.

1:06:12 ~ 1/10/2006 9:09:09 AM ~ Nicholas - also concerned about hiring employees  and working for non-profit.  Troubled by number of new programs being asked to fund.  Tied to funding new program.   Number?

1:07:46 ~ 1/10/2006 9:10:43 AM ~ Nobel - not a new program, reinstate a good program.  Dept. sets the policy based upon your legislation, non-profit does not.  Folk Arts program would be a new program.  No answer for how many new programs. Try to tie budget to strategic plan.

1:09:05 ~ 1/10/2006 9:12:02 AM ~ Jorgensen - soft part of dept. starting, challenge

1:10:21 ~ 1/10/2006 9:13:18 AM ~ Nobel #18 part time storage and microfilm at Intermountain Records in Casper, not privatizing  records, we have problem with storage.  GR ok.

1:11:15 ~ 1/10/2006 9:14:12 AM ~ Philp - why continue to use microfilm?

1:11:27 ~ 1/10/2006 9:14:24 AM ~ Nobel, great question, seems to be out of date, is still standards for archiving records.  Last year legislative discussion suggested electronic records.  Question of how long it will last.  CD's will no longer be used.  Microfilm lasts and is still used.  Not really outmoded.

1:12:53 ~ 1/10/2006 9:15:50 AM ~ Meuli - camera and scanners, aren't these already available?

1:13:13 ~ 1/10/2006 9:16:10 AM ~ Nobel, not for scanners themselves, is for contract with private company.

1:13:34 ~ 1/10/2006 9:16:31 AM ~ Job - investigation of guarantees of companies which could go out of business.

1:14:05 ~ 1/10/2006 9:17:02 AM ~ Nobel - contractural recourse, located at airport, easily accessed.

1:14:28 ~ 1/10/2006 9:17:25 AM ~ Nobel - #19 for actual equipment Rep. Meuli asked about.  GR approval of part and denied part, suggested looking at other agencies for some of the equipment.

1:15:26 ~ 1/10/2006 9:18:23 AM ~ Hines - p. 33 - 34 funding shift?  $5m Gov. for trust fund

1:16:31 ~ 1/10/2006 9:19:28 AM ~ McVey - yes, references Gov. Rec. in Gov. Letter #2 $3.5m net change

1:17:30 ~ 1/10/2006 9:20:27 AM ~ Hines - lefthand column fund shift?

1:17:46 ~ 1/10/2006 9:20:43 AM ~ McVey - reflects $ into corpus of cultural trust fund.

1:18:18 ~ 1/10/2006 9:21:15 AM ~ Philp requested list of grants

1:18:28 ~ 1/10/2006 9:21:25 AM ~ Rep. Simpson - go to the old mansion and look at  survival  kits.  "Big Al" gave them to be  passed off to agency.

1:20:18 ~ 1/10/2006 9:23:14 AM ~ Pause

1:20:18 ~ 1/10/2006 9:37:08 AM ~ Resume

1:20:18 ~ 1/10/2006 9:37:08 AM ~ Hines - take break

1:20:42 ~ 1/10/2006 9:37:32 AM ~ Noble - # 1For this project - it continues to go down   #2 - Our seasonal workers need to have a raise because we are competing w/ Burger King, etc at only $6.50 / hour.

1:23:04 ~ 1/10/2006 9:39:54 AM ~ Pat Green - As I was working in Human Res. we had less and less applications for employees.  Sometimes we have these people to come back and work full-time for us later.  This is a good training opportunity.  We want to get quality employees .  This helps us to know if they are going to be good employees if we can have them as seasonal employees.

1:25:33 ~ 1/10/2006 9:42:23 AM ~ Petersen - Do you have feel for how much you'll be able to pay these people with money you've asked for?

1:26:45 ~ 1/10/2006 9:43:35 AM ~ Green - You can find that in the narrative.

1:29:12 ~ 1/10/2006 9:46:02 AM ~ Noble - Exception req. - need replacements for equipment.  We often buy them from DOT because they maintain their vehicles.    #10 WYOlink for law enforcement at parks and historical sites, etc.

1:31:22 ~ 1/10/2006 9:48:12 AM ~ Jones - Have you accessed Homeland sec. money?

1:31:41 ~ 1/10/2006 9:48:31 AM ~ Green- Yes, we have used what we have been given.  Other states have screamed about WY getting so much from them and now they have cut us off.

1:32:29 ~ 1/10/2006 9:49:19 AM ~ Case - Have had discussion about the law enforcement in parks--fill us in about that.

1:33:02 ~ 1/10/2006 9:49:52 AM ~ Noble- They go through the training in Douglas like other peace officers, but they are doing other things also.

1:35:10 ~ 1/10/2006 9:51:59 AM ~ Green - Our peace officers also do other things like maintenance, etc.  About 56% of people that use our state parks are just passing through.  We want to keep everyone safe.

1:37:08 ~ 1/10/2006 9:53:58 AM ~ Case - What is directive that dept gives to them about how to divide their time?

1:38:08 ~ 1/10/2006 9:54:58 AM ~ Anderson - Can you give us #'s of people at Glendo for 4th of July?

1:38:50 ~ 1/10/2006 9:55:39 AM ~ Green - We try to AWAC contract extra people to be in the parks on the big weekends.  Sometime that is hard because cities and counties have to beef up then also.

1:41:02 ~ 1/10/2006 9:57:52 AM ~ Jorgensen - Is there a max. # that can be in these parks?

1:41:56 ~ 1/10/2006 9:58:46 AM ~ Green - we are moving toward having designated camping areas in Glendo.  That will help the #'s situation.

1:42:34 ~ 1/10/2006 9:59:24 AM ~ Philp - Would archives be able to use same machine??

1:42:59 ~ 1/10/2006 9:59:49 AM ~ Noble - I think that this is a different type.  #12 - is for GIS equipment - Gov approved  #13 - Off road rec. vechile prog. - gov approved  #14 - Rec. trails prog.

1:45:15 ~ 1/10/2006 10:02:05 AM ~ Hines - Parks maintenance 5 yr. program

1:46:16 ~ 1/10/2006 10:03:06 AM ~ Noble - Our req. are different from A & I because these don't fall under them.  This report outlines where we are and what we need to have.  It was produced in-house.

1:48:26 ~ 1/10/2006 10:05:16 AM ~ Hines - You have this report set up by bien.  Right???  What will you do if you need some other monies?

1:49:24 ~ 1/10/2006 10:06:14 AM ~ Noble - We have tried to prioritize projects - much of what we have asked for is for roads w/in state parks.  If we could have money up front it would be much easier for us to manage these projects rather than trying to piecemeal everything.

1:51:43 ~ 1/10/2006 10:08:33 AM ~ Hines - Does your enterprise fund take care of daily maintenance?   As you do one gp of backlog are you creating more backlogs??

1:53:05 ~ 1/10/2006 10:09:55 AM ~ Green - the enterprise fund does take care of some, but we are creating some other problems.

1:53:51 ~ 1/10/2006 10:10:41 AM ~ Nicholas - Are we talking about new site work or preserving what we have?

1:55:00 ~ 1/10/2006 10:11:50 AM ~ Noble - the 29 mil is all for maintenance.  The consultant just went around and identified that needs to be done around the state.

1:56:38 ~ 1/10/2006 10:13:28 AM ~ Warren - Can you identify what you really need to have so that we can save some.  What if you had it as lump sum?

1:58:38 ~ 1/10/2006 10:15:28 AM ~ Green - We would like to have larger amt. so that we can know we have money we can better utilize it.

1:59:13 ~ 1/10/2006 10:16:03 AM ~ Nicholas - Can we see what you get from other agency?

1:59:45 ~ 1/10/2006 10:16:35 AM ~ Noble - We do not fall under A & I by AG opinion.  We have to come to you for everything that we get.

2:00:26 ~ 1/10/2006 10:17:16 AM ~ Nicholas - Mike, what do they get now?

2:00:42 ~ 1/10/2006 10:17:32 AM ~ McVey - Mr. Noble is correct but their only source of funding is the bit that they get.  I have asked Mr. Cathcart to tell me what the funding  could be - 1.8 mil for major maintenance could be added to their budget.

2:03:35 ~ 1/10/2006 10:20:25 AM ~ Nicholas - I would like for you to pursue this.

2:03:53 ~ 1/10/2006 10:20:43 AM ~ Noble - We were told after AG opinion that our bldgs. don't fall under state agency.  We have to come to you and ask for money.

2:05:15 ~ 1/10/2006 10:22:05 AM ~ Nicholas - Every agency has backlog and need to keep working on chunking away.

2:06:03 ~ 1/10/2006 10:22:53 AM ~ Job - I don't understand why DOT doesn't take care of roads in state parks?  Why?

2:06:34 ~ 1/10/2006 10:23:24 AM ~ Hines - WyDot - just does roads, not buildings.

2:07:14 ~ 1/10/2006 10:24:04 AM ~ Anderson - WyDot gives engineering assistance to other agencies.

2:07:49 ~ 1/10/2006 10:24:39 AM ~ Green - I want to address Sen. Job's ques.  In statutes there it says we are to have $6K for roads.

2:09:49 ~ 1/10/2006 10:26:38 AM ~ Bonds - $6K does not go very far.  We do use WyDot for some of our projects.  People are reluctant to chg. formulas because it cause big problems.

2:12:17 ~ 1/10/2006 10:29:07 AM ~ Hines -

2:12:54 ~ 1/10/2006 10:29:44 AM ~ Noble - I share Sen. Job's concern and I don't know why we aren't under state buildings, but  the AG said that we weren't.

2:15:29 ~ 1/10/2006 10:32:19 AM ~ Hines - we are ready for capital construction

2:15:42 ~ 1/10/2006 10:32:32 AM ~ Noble - pg. 55 - we are asking for more for health and safety projects  -

2:17:24 ~ 1/10/2006 10:34:14 AM ~ Nicholas -

2:17:30 ~ 1/10/2006 10:34:19 AM ~ Green - That just gives us spending authority.

2:17:46 ~ 1/10/2006 10:34:36 AM ~ Jones - Are they enterprise funds?

2:18:00 ~ 1/10/2006 10:34:49 AM ~ Noble - pg. 62 -

2:18:42 ~ 1/10/2006 10:35:32 AM ~ Meuli - Could talk a little about req. on pg. 59 that was denied?

2:19:02 ~ 1/10/2006 10:35:52 AM ~ Noble - The State Bldg. Commission denied it because the land was outside the capital complex and they thought it should be closer to here.  W/ realty neg. going on around this area - Won't know outcome for a year.

2:22:36 ~ 1/10/2006 10:39:26 AM ~ Petersen - With thought of archives deteriorating, where are you??

2:23:10 ~ 1/10/2006 10:40:00 AM ~ Noble - The archives are deteriorating faster than necessary because the warehouse is not appropriate.    We need to have these taken care of quickly.   The bldg. commission asked that existing bldgs. be considered also.  We are to work w/ architect as we are doing.    We are looking at other options even though consultant suggested a new bldg.

2:26:09 ~ 1/10/2006 10:42:58 AM ~ Hines - pg. 65

2:26:20 ~ 1/10/2006 10:43:10 AM ~ Noble - You said to keep funds funds that we collect.  This is basically a spending authority for monies that we collect at territorial prison.

2:27:23 ~ 1/10/2006 10:44:13 AM ~ Anderson - Would you tell us where we are w/ prison?

2:27:45 ~ 1/10/2006 10:44:35 AM ~ Noble - Need lots of maintenance at the territorial prison- expense proposition there.

2:28:31 ~ 1/10/2006 10:45:20 AM ~ Green - much of cost is for broom factory is to stabilize it.  We have had living exhibits there.  Territorial prison used to have a broom industry there.

2:29:58 ~ 1/10/2006 10:46:48 AM ~ Nicholas - lots of space there for $18 mil building

2:30:25 ~ 1/10/2006 10:47:15 AM ~ Green - once we get this repaired it will be a really nice building for artisans to use for living history.

2:32:03 ~ 1/10/2006 10:48:53 AM ~ Warren - Wasn't there a loan for this?

2:32:17 ~ 1/10/2006 10:49:07 AM ~ Nicholas - That was actually repaid -  Ha!!!!

2:32:45 ~ 1/10/2006 10:49:34 AM ~ Pause

2:32:45 ~ 1/10/2006 10:50:01 AM ~ Resume

2:42:10 ~ 1/10/2006 10:59:26 AM ~ Hines - Lets get started with Workforce Services.

2:42:47 ~ 1/10/2006 11:00:03 AM ~ Kathy Emmons - Intro her staff  Overview of department - created from 4 other depts.   This dept has helped  state move forward in helping the business world.  We need to help in recruitment and training for state. As state grows need to try to meet the demand for more workers.  Primarily dependent on fed. funds.  Have seen dec. of fed funds - 4-8% less 3 divisions  Services in every community in state.  People that use our services are more successful in getting employment.  Wage rate is progressing if from our training.  People are staying in jobs longer.  Turnover is much less now.   Exception #1 - Awareness campaign for public Need to have consultant to help in some of this  #2 - Workforce analysis for future Investment- would want to have some outside help with this

2:53:22 ~ 1/10/2006 11:10:38 AM ~ Warren- Is there overlap with employment dept??

2:54:01 ~ 1/10/2006 11:11:18 AM ~ Emmons - We will work with them.  We need to have real time, not old data.

2:54:58 ~ 1/10/2006 11:12:14 AM ~ Meuli - on this request , did you req. that this funding start this yr or gov?

2:55:28 ~ 1/10/2006 11:12:44 AM ~ Emmons - Gov suggested and we were thrilled to start now.

2:55:59 ~ 1/10/2006 11:13:15 AM ~ Berger -

2:57:25 ~ 1/10/2006 11:14:41 AM ~ Anderson - with crystal ball how will you work w/ ed. depart to teach students for the future?

2:58:14 ~ 1/10/2006 11:15:30 AM ~ Emmons - are working closely w/ dept of ed to dev. some materials that will work w/ kids.   Currently we are working on career paths to get to kids so they will know what they need to have to do a particular job.

3:00:32 ~ 1/10/2006 11:17:48 AM ~ Emmons - #3 - Position status change - funding is already there  pg. 30 - GED prog to move to Community College Comm. pg. 34 - Comm. services priority - this was moved from state gov to nonprofit

3:04:31 ~ 1/10/2006 11:21:47 AM ~ Nicholas - How does the nonprofit get fed funds?

3:04:56 ~ 1/10/2006 11:22:13 AM ~ Emmons- it is Americor and Vista program. Prog. where most states the money goes directly to nonprofit.  Now it is set up that way.  pg 40 - dec. fed revenues - & inc. personnel costs --When the leg inc. personnel wages we don't get those because we are primarily fed. funded.  Would like to get inc. for our workers. #4 funding adjustments  Warren - some of funding is contingent upon fed funding?  ?When will you know about that?

3:13:23 ~ 1/10/2006 11:30:39 AM ~ Emmons - food stamps - We do that because it was means that there is a working requirement.    We do know that we won't get funding so unless something funny happens we know that those monies won't be there.  pg. 53 - Workforce dev. training fund   #

3:17:10 ~ 1/10/2006 11:34:26 AM ~ Emmons - #2 - Bus. training & outreach admin.  #3 - Senior community service employment prog.  #4 apprenticeship utilization program  pg. 68 - Kemmer Expansion - have been seeing real growth here and need more  #2 Motor vehicle management system rate inc. -  Voc rehabilitation has not taken cuts from feds as have other areas.  We haven't asked for as many gen funds as we could.    #4 - portion for new telephone systems for five field offices

3:23:02 ~ 1/10/2006 11:40:18 AM ~ Jim McIntoch - just need to update 1979 phones.

3:25:17 ~ 1/10/2006 11:42:34 AM ~ Emmons - #5 - furniture for field offices

3:26:25 ~ 1/10/2006 11:43:41 AM ~ Meuli - if you don't get gen funds do you not get fed funds??

3:26:57 ~ 1/10/2006 11:44:13 AM ~ Emmons - No gen funds we don't get fed funds.

3:27:16 ~ 1/10/2006 11:44:32 AM ~ Petersen -

3:27:29 ~ 1/10/2006 11:44:45 AM ~ Emmons - training that bus. req. funds for they ask  for the particular training and apply for our funds.

3:29:13 ~ 1/10/2006 11:46:29 AM ~ Petersen - What if the training they req. is not of high standards??

3:29:43 ~ 1/10/2006 11:46:59 AM ~ Emmons - We make sure that they are good trainers.

3:30:30 ~ 1/10/2006 11:47:47 AM ~ Anderson - What about out of state workforce??

3:30:46 ~ 1/10/2006 11:48:02 AM ~ Emmons - we need to look out-of-state, but we don't want to look out of country yet.  We'll need 40 K more workers in next 5 yrs.  Need to recruit in states and closed industry that would be like WY.  Don't want them to be surprised or disappointed.

3:33:12 ~ 1/10/2006 11:50:29 AM ~ Case - What about chg positions from part-time to full-time?  Do your have the money already?

3:34:05 ~ 1/10/2006 11:51:21 AM ~ Emmons - Some have been working full-time but classified as part-time.  We do have the funding.

3:34:53 ~ 1/10/2006 11:52:10 AM ~ Case - you mentioned that dept. has grown.  What is your head count?

3:35:43 ~ 1/10/2006 11:52:59 AM ~ Emmons - 284 across the state.  --If this req. is filled we won't have any part-time positions.

3:36:21 ~ 1/10/2006 11:53:38 AM ~ Nicholas - Why should state of WY go out and recruit for cyclical jobs.

3:37:11 ~ 1/10/2006 11:54:27 AM ~ Emmons - We aren't always going to know what jobs are going to be here.

3:37:48 ~ 1/10/2006 11:55:05 AM ~ Philp - on GED, didn't we transfer it from CC budget to you.  Why are we moving?

3:39:12 ~ 1/10/2006 11:56:28 AM ~ Emmons - Yes, we did move them , but they administer the GED so we think it should be there.

3:40:41 ~ 1/10/2006 11:57:57 AM ~ Hines - thank you. Committee, Steve has the new CREG report for us.

3:42:07 ~ 1/10/2006 11:59:24 AM ~ Steve - we can add some monies .  We left the minerals estimate as was.  We did add $37-38 mil to our estimate.  Gov rec. that we add some to LSRA.  See gold profile sheet.  If take gov rec. and factor in new calibration we'll still be in hole.

3:47:01 ~ 1/10/2006 12:04:17 PM ~ Nicholas - please explain some of the figures.  What about the Hathaway

3:48:13 ~ 1/10/2006 12:05:30 PM ~ Steve - if you decide not to transfer that amount to the school foundation.  You might not get all of the 280mil.

3:49:02 ~ 1/10/2006 12:06:18 PM ~ Nicholas - how is all that going to work?

3:49:27 ~ 1/10/2006 12:06:43 PM ~ Steve - depends on when we transfer that money over.

3:50:02 ~ 1/10/2006 12:07:18 PM ~ Nicholas - I think that it should drop below 100 mil $$ profile.

3:50:34 ~ 1/10/2006 12:07:50 PM ~ Steve - we're basically taking what he wants and plugging it in.

3:51:39 ~ 1/10/2006 12:08:55 PM ~ Nicholas - I thought that it had to leave 100 mil.

3:52:44 ~ 1/10/2006 12:10:00 PM ~ Steve -

3:53:20 ~ 1/10/2006 12:10:36 PM ~ Hines - Thanks Steve.  We'll back at 1 p.m.

3:54:39 ~ 1/10/2006 12:11:54 PM ~ Pause

3:54:39 ~ 1/10/2006 1:01:38 PM ~ Resume

3:54:46 ~ 1/10/2006 1:01:45 PM ~ Hines - #025 Employment

3:55:03 ~ 1/10/2006 1:02:02 PM ~ Director Pomeroy - thank you for allowing us to present budget, introduced staff have over 160 yrs. of experience, also thanks to Budget staff, Mike McVey & Jill Jensen.

3:56:39 ~ 1/10/2006 1:03:39 PM ~ Pomeroy -explained goals and activities of dept. quality of life, responsible steward of WY.  Concern for aging population, workers' comp, higher risk occupations, OSHA, uses technology to better serve population.  Serve public while saving $.  Major focus 31% of all employees will reach retirement age or rule of 85 in 5 years.  Create supervisory accident report, accident investigation, training for safe lifting, etc.  Implemented wellness program, 110 of 300 employees participate.  $20,070 employees registered in W. Comp, other statistics given. FY 2007-2008 $70m budget, 6.1% increase, only 5% GF, IT software or equipment.

4:04:03 ~ 1/10/2006 1:11:02 PM ~ Pomeroy - 55% of cases investigated within 5 days.Interactive voice response, OSHA marketing effort on good safety practices.  Referenced #40 Safety calendar

4:05:54 ~ 1/10/2006 1:12:54 PM ~ Job - hearings for Workers' Comp, long time?

4:06:27 ~ 1/10/2006 1:13:26 PM ~ Pomeroy - scheduled almost 1 yr. out due to lack of staff proficiency.  Right to appeal, attorney  fees pd. at each level.  We are doing better, independent assessment done in 2004, WY is one of few states that pay attorney fees

4:07:40 ~ 1/10/2006 1:14:39 PM ~ Job- help in interim before appeal?

4:07:57 ~ 1/10/2006 1:14:56 PM ~ Pomeroy - no help

4:08:10 ~ 1/10/2006 1:15:10 PM ~ Jorgensen - make a call early, 15% of cases not settled, how long will they take?  Entitled to make a claim, do they know state pays claims?

4:09:13 ~ 1/10/2006 1:16:13 PM ~ Pomeroy - yes, they kno.

4:09:30 ~ 1/10/2006 1:16:30 PM ~ Child - Office of Administrative Hearings - till settlement = average is 260 days.  Continuances affect.  Medical Commission scheduled up to November this year.

4:11:27 ~ 1/10/2006 1:18:26 PM ~ Jorgensen - receive a report?

4:11:42 ~ 1/10/2006 1:18:42 PM ~ Pomeroy - June meeting, will give all information.

4:12:00 ~ 1/10/2006 1:19:00 PM ~ Nicholas - DOAH ebbs and flows, staff now will be dead silence until hearings, fund someone to do mandatory mediation for DOAH?  Settlement at 200 days could be done thru mediation early.

4:14:38 ~ 1/10/2006 1:21:37 PM ~ Pomeroy - visited North Dakota and they do have a Mediation Board.  Will pursue.

4:15:05 ~ 1/10/2006 1:22:04 PM ~ Jorgensen - when completed?

4:15:15 ~ 1/10/2006 1:22:14 PM ~ Child- tentative draft due by end of month, is a concern.  Mediation is offered thru

4:16:32 ~ 1/10/2006 1:23:32 PM ~ Jorgensen - requested DeLoit Report

4:16:47 ~ 1/10/2006 1:23:47 PM ~ Job also wants copy.  Do you  do customer satisfaction interviews.  Interested in what you do with the results.

4:17:36 ~ 1/10/2006 1:24:35 PM ~ Child - last month we got an 89% satisfaction rate on injured worker questionnaires.  Also use as a training tool.

4:18:39 ~ 1/10/2006 1:25:39 PM ~ Simpson - Like copy of DeLoit rept.  Do you have a report of legislation sponsored or other results.  Track results?

4:19:43 ~ 1/10/2006 1:26:42 PM ~ Child - yes, AG also gives actions we can do.  Assessed on individual basis.

4:20:11 ~ 1/10/2006 1:27:10 PM ~ Simpson - what paying attorneys, how many doing Workers Comp?

4:20:31 ~ 1/10/2006 1:27:31 PM ~ Child $95/hr, have 10 contract attorneys per division

4:20:53 ~ 1/10/2006 1:27:52 PM ~ Child- OAH set rates,

4:21:19 ~ 1/10/2006 1:28:18 PM ~ Nicholas - distribute rept. to all members.

4:21:35 ~ 1/10/2006 1:28:34 PM ~ Hiens - go into budget

4:22:01 ~ 1/10/2006 1:29:00 PM ~ Pomeroy p. 10 #1 training for succession  of retirees.

4:23:07 ~ 1/10/2006 1:30:07 PM ~ Pomeroy p. 15 storage by imaging employees' files

4:24:02 ~ 1/10/2006 1:31:01 PM ~ Pomeroy p. 20 prevaliling wage now since 2001 is resp. on this dept.  No funding, Dept. of Transportation has management of funds.  UW Dr. Godfrey now does survey, and need funds in our

4:25:37 ~ 1/10/2006 1:32:37 PM ~ Nicholas - reason why we did that?  Federal funding?

4:26:10 ~ 1/10/2006 1:33:10 PM ~ Pomeroy p. 27 #1, asking for 2 full-time case workers. Alleviate hardship  Have 1 nurse who can approve, also working in case mgmt.

4:28:33 ~ 1/10/2006 1:35:33 PM ~ Simpson - how many cases are open at any one time?

4:28:48 ~ 1/10/2006 1:35:48 PM ~ Pomeroy about 14,000.  Pg. 28 reclassification of 9 staff members.  B-11 in 1995, become part of standard budget.  #3 1999 WINGS Program Assessment, do a technical assessment to replace this to a more effective, cheaper program.

4:31:41 ~ 1/10/2006 1:38:40 PM ~ Hines - explain

4:31:58 ~ 1/10/2006 1:38:57 PM ~ IT Manager

4:35:02 ~ 1/10/2006 1:42:02 PM ~ Pomeroy #4, CIO approved replacement of scanner, etc.  Redundency was denied by CIO and Gov.  No problem.

4:36:41 ~ 1/10/2006 1:43:41 PM ~ Pomeroy #6  approved CIO and Gov.

4:37:29 ~ 1/10/2006 1:44:29 PM ~ Pomeroy #7  approved by  CIO and Gov.

4:38:10 ~ 1/10/2006 1:45:09 PM ~ Pomeoroy #8 online statements

4:38:34 ~ 1/10/2006 1:45:34 PM ~ Hines #7 standard budget or one time funding?

4:38:50 ~ 1/10/2006 1:45:49 PM ~ Pomeroy one-time

4:39:01 ~ 1/10/2006 1:46:00 PM ~ Pomeroy #9 eliminate objectionable materials on internet.  #10 IT Staff training denied by CIO to absorb into budget.

4:40:05 ~ 1/10/2006 1:47:05 PM ~ Nicholas - CIO turn down as not necessary or doesn't like program.  Governor denies due to funds.  CIO didn't think it was necessary.  They prioritize requests.  This was a low priority.

4:41:44 ~ 1/10/2006 1:48:43 PM ~ Pomeroy - #11 request for vehicles approved.

4:42:28 ~ 1/10/2006 1:49:27 PM ~ Pomeroy pg. 36 #1 absolutely critical, approved by Gov.

4:43:42 ~ 1/10/2006 1:50:42 PM ~ Nicholas -

4:43:49 ~ 1/10/2006 1:50:48 PM ~ Pomeroy - must be invited in,

4:44:12 ~ 1/10/2006 1:51:11 PM ~ Hines - funding source?

4:44:20 ~ 1/10/2006 1:51:20 PM ~ Pomeroy enterprise funds

4:44:35 ~ 1/10/2006 1:51:34 PM ~ Pomeroy- #2 MVMS adjustments approved by Gov.

4:45:03 ~ 1/10/2006 1:52:02 PM ~ Pomeroy #3 parttime to fulltime positions Gov. approved.

4:45:37 ~ 1/10/2006 1:52:37 PM ~ Warren - how do these positions invite self  in, what do when in? How found out about?Timeline of how to do?

4:46:32 ~ 1/10/2006 1:53:31 PM ~ Pomeroy-start immediately, put one in Casper, newsletters, media, promote into different safety programs.

4:47:44 ~ 1/10/2006 1:54:44 PM ~ Child series of programs VEP program,has 6 employers, other 2 programs and numbers of employers discussed.  33% participate and reduce costs by     %.  Full spectrum of programs which affect their premiums.  Target various industries, determine which employers need assistance.  Can opt out and invite consultation in.

4:50:36 ~ 1/10/2006 1:57:35 PM ~ Hines - Total funding in good shape for Workers Comp?  Rates increase?

4:51:17 ~ 1/10/2006 1:58:17 PM ~ Pomeroy - pleased that no increase to base rate happened this year.

4:51:49 ~ 1/10/2006 1:58:48 PM ~ Hines 11% increase?

4:52:01 ~ 1/10/2006 1:59:00 PM ~ Child 11% decrease in injuries of employers who are enrolled in program.

4:52:25 ~ 1/10/2006 1:59:24 PM ~ Simpson - WINS  program

4:52:37 ~ 1/10/2006 1:59:37 PM ~ Pomeroy

4:52:46 ~ 1/10/2006 1:59:45 PM ~ Nicholas - enforcement officer is it his discretion to write up other problems found if going out for 1 item?

4:54:14 ~ 1/10/2006 2:01:14 PM ~ Pomeroy - can fix

4:54:44 ~ 1/10/2006 2:01:43 PM ~ Pomeroy - do have that authority.

4:55:06 ~ 1/10/2006 2:02:06 PM ~ Simpson - employers paying into fund, any problem with employers attempting to pay lower rate.

4:55:45 ~ 1/10/2006 2:02:45 PM ~ Pomeroy - State Unemployment Tax - no further  problems.

4:56:16 ~ 1/10/2006 2:03:15 PM ~ Pomeroy, p. 45, #1 part time to full time positions approved by Gov.  low unemployment rate, 3 positions.

4:57:14 ~ 1/10/2006 2:04:13 PM ~ Hines, p. 42?

4:57:50 ~ 1/10/2006 2:04:49 PM ~ Pomeroy - typo, we have grown with employees, will correct this.

4:58:12 ~ 1/10/2006 2:05:11 PM ~ Pomeroy, p. 51 request 7 positions from part time to full time + a funding adjustment to correct putting it into an incorrect revenue code.

4:59:35 ~ 1/10/2006 2:06:35 PM ~ Hines - ?

5:00:25 ~ 1/10/2006 2:07:24 PM ~ Pomeroy - misconduct on job, difficult to win, and case law - use of drugs during work hours.

5:02:07 ~ 1/10/2006 2:09:06 PM ~ Hines - federal issue?  Illegal employees on Workers Comp?

5:02:57 ~ 1/10/2006 2:09:57 PM ~ Pomeroy - all on fed. side, must be conformed to feds, not on workers comp side - enterprise funds.

5:03:33 ~ 1/10/2006 2:10:33 PM ~ Case - very soured on my experience with .

5:04:21 ~ 1/10/2006 2:11:20 PM ~ Job - policy of alcohol and drug free workplace?  Would it qualify?

5:04:52 ~ 1/10/2006 2:11:51 PM ~ If employer had informed employee and if he terminates and tells why, then it can be misconduct.

5:06:19 ~ 1/10/2006 2:13:19 PM ~ Nicholas - lawyers tell fired employees not to tell why.

5:06:53 ~ 1/10/2006 2:13:52 PM ~ Pomeroy  - p. 61 asking for additional personnel in light of West Virginia mine disaster.  30% up with no new personnel since 1980.  Locate in Casper for central location

5:08:27 ~ 1/10/2006 2:15:26 PM ~ Pomeroy #2 MVMS, #3 in-state travel, #4 technical equipment, #5                    #6 researchmaterial in-house library.

5:10:53 ~ 1/10/2006 2:17:53 PM ~ Warren #5 how determine lease or purchase computers?

5:11:17 ~ 1/10/2006 2:18:17 PM ~ Pomeroy, Leases are good due to outdated equipment, more expensive to replace than to rent.

5:11:49 ~ 1/10/2006 2:18:49 PM ~ Petersen - how often do we inspect open pit and underground mines.

5:12:13 ~ 1/10/2006 2:19:12 PM ~ J. D. Danni - Twice per year inspect both mines and inspectors.

5:13:06 ~ 1/10/2006 2:20:05 PM ~ Petersen - are owners receptive to corrections?

5:13:25 ~ 1/10/2006 2:20:25 PM ~ Danni - shut entire or section of mine down if found a violation.  Operator doesn't like it, but understands.  Federal mine inspectors also there twice per yr.  Most infractions not substantial enough to shut down.

5:14:36 ~ 1/10/2006 2:21:36 PM ~ Anderson -

5:14:41 ~ 1/10/2006 2:21:41 PM ~ Danni - Mining permit required

5:15:27 ~ 1/10/2006 2:22:26 PM ~ Anderson - yellow cake inspected also?

5:15:42 ~ 1/10/2006 2:22:42 PM ~ Danni - inspect mine, if part of mine inspected by MOA or definition.

5:16:28 ~ 1/10/2006 2:23:27 PM ~ Nicholas

5:17:10 ~ 1/10/2006 2:24:09 PM ~ Danni - not saying WV situation would happen here, but we try to be proactive, not reactive

5:17:49 ~ 1/10/2006 2:24:48 PM ~ Petersen - how many fatalities in last 2 years?  Under your jurisdiction?

5:18:26 ~ 1/10/2006 2:25:25 PM ~ Danni - 3 in last 2 years, mine rescue teams not specified in statute, are under federal regulations.  We are involved, members on team are miners too.

5:19:35 ~ 1/10/2006 2:26:35 PM ~ Pomeroy - p. 71 roof repair, replace membrane, revenue funds to be used.  Partial replacement in 1996, needs repair, no federal funds, asking for UI Revenue funds generated from delinquent accounts

5:21:47 ~ 1/10/2006 2:28:47 PM ~ Meuli - insurance?  Caused by hail?

5:22:06 ~ 1/10/2006 2:29:05 PM ~ Pomeroy - we are self insured.

5:22:14 ~ 1/10/2006 2:29:14 PM ~ Hines - capital construction?

5:22:24 ~ 1/10/2006 2:29:23 PM ~ Pomeroy purchase parking lot approved by the State Building Commission and the Gov.

5:22:51 ~ 1/10/2006 2:29:51 PM ~ Hines - Thank you for the information.  Take 10min break and then continue with Public Defender.

5:23:08 ~ 1/10/2006 2:30:07 PM ~ Pause

5:23:08 ~ 1/10/2006 2:46:00 PM ~ Resume

5:23:08 ~ 1/10/2006 2:46:00 PM ~ Ken Koski - Public Defender  Introduced his staff

5:23:38 ~ 1/10/2006 2:46:30 PM ~ Koski - Have provided organ. chart so you can see our agency  Ref. to gov. ltr - effective immediately -  Death penalty - have handled 5 diff. cases - inc. case load that my agency is facing.  Providing free council has been very expensive.   We do need effective immediate funding in order to finish this bien.

5:27:47 ~ 1/10/2006 2:50:39 PM ~ Nicholas - do you know that you are going to expend that or only if you go to trial?

5:28:12 ~ 1/10/2006 2:51:04 PM ~ Koski - We will probably expend it whether we go to trial or not.  Our budget could be over $800K shortfall.  With these death penalty cases it is more expensive.    Sometimes if the staff doesn't have the time to do appeals in a timely fashion we have to farm them out.

5:31:15 ~ 1/10/2006 2:54:07 PM ~ Nicholas - Do you have any 900 line item series in you ?

5:32:15 ~ 1/10/2006 2:55:07 PM ~ Brian Young - fiscal officer Encumbrances are money that we have set aside for particular use.

5:33:58 ~ 1/10/2006 2:56:50 PM ~ Anderson- At least one of Fremont cty cases have been referred to fed court, how would you sit?

5:34:55 ~ 1/10/2006 2:57:47 PM ~ Koski - If that happens the cost will go down, but we have to be prepared.

5:36:07 ~ 1/10/2006 2:58:59 PM ~ Nicholas - When asked for your 900 series we had hoped that you would be able to show us where we could help you.  How do I evaluate your office costs, etc. ??

5:37:48 ~ 1/10/2006 3:00:40 PM ~ Koski - gov. has put some of money in for us.  He put in the 903 series to help us out.

5:38:47 ~ 1/10/2006 3:01:39 PM ~ Nicholas - Do you think that you will hit that 903 series?

5:42:40 ~ 1/10/2006 3:05:32 PM ~ Hines - this move into your budget

5:43:03 ~ 1/10/2006 3:05:55 PM ~ Koski - I will discuss the exception budget.  We are seeing an inc. in case load, more drug cases and the death penalty cases.  In last 2 yrs we have grown by over 20%.    Our trial level attorneys have over 125 open cases.  We are far exceeding the number of suggested.    Exception budget - #1 -

5:46:58 ~ 1/10/2006 3:09:50 PM ~ Anderson - You were denied a position in Goshen county.  Is the crime rate going to increase there when the prison is up and running?

5:47:59 ~ 1/10/2006 3:10:51 PM ~ Koski - We don't pay our attorneys as much as other state agencies.  That's disgraceful.  The independent contractors are paid more.  As a state employee you get benefits.    It is easier to get one with guaranteed month income.  All our employees are willing to work since we give full-time work.  Simpson -What about defendents wanting to use their own attorney and then have state pay.???  Koski - That has happened.  Not during this session, but I do plan to pursue to have the statue changed so that would not be possible.

6:00:51 ~ 1/10/2006 3:23:43 PM ~ Hines - any other questions>???  If not, we are adjourned for today .

6:01:25 ~ 1/10/2006 3:24:17 PM ~ Stop Recording