MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

 MONDAY – April 1, 1968

A regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Lake County, Florida, was held in the Commissioners’ Room in the Courthouse, in Tavares, at 10:00 o’clock A.M. Monday, April 1, 1968, with the following members present to-wit: Commr. H. A. Babb, Chairman; Commrs. Theus, Cowart, Dykes and Windram.  Also present were Attorney Duncan, Engineer Hays, Planning & Zoning Director Webb, Clerk Owens and Deputy Clerk Norma Coven.

The meeting was called to order by the Chairman and the invocation was given by Father Walter B. Peterson, St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, Mount Dora.

Rights of way – road

Emmett Peter appeared relative to the right of way of street in Piney Woods Subdivision.  Mr. Peter said it is his belief that the road has been deeded to the County and dedicated to the public.  He would like to close a portion of the street.  The County Attorney was instructed to check the title to the property.

The Engineer presented written recommendation for the acquisition of road rights of way and same was approved on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried.

Assessments

It now being the time advertised to hold public hearing for the purpose of hearing objections to any of the assessments as set for in the Special Assessment Roll for paving streets in Suburban Shores Subdivision, the Chairman called for interested parties to be heard at this time.  There were no objections or complaints and on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, a resolution was adopted approving the Special Assessment Roll as prepared by the Tax Collector.

roads – county

H. R. Fogle, Sr. of Deland appeared and presented map and three affidavits of a road in the Cassia area that has been a public road in excess of 20 years.  The Engineer and Commissioner Windram agreed to view the road and report on same.

Engineer Hays reported we are still experiencing dumping problems on county Road 1-5108, the clay portion of Tally Box Road and West of #1-4909.  On motion of Commissioner Theus, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Engineer was instructed to erect “No Dumping” signs.

Mr. Hays advised residents on County Road 5-9788 are interfering with the maintenance of the Road.  On motion of Commr. Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Theus and carried, a resolution was adopted authorizing the Sheriff to remove from N. George Street in the Town of Astor, any obstruction placed on the street or in the right of way.

A request from three property owners on County Road 1-6313 (Lake Unity Road) that the Board approve the name “Quail Hollow Road” was approved on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried.

safety

Trooper Jim Hooks appeared and informed the Board that the personnel employed by the Board to operate the Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations must be checked out by the Department of Public Safety.  The minimum age limit is 18 years and the individuals must pass the County’s physical examination.  Trooper Hooks asked that the names be submitted to him as soon as possible in order for the investigation to be made and a training school scheduled. 

Joe Williams, Field Services Representative of the State Treasurer’s Office, appeared relative to the Governor’s Highway Safety Commission and advised federal funds are available for the operation of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations.  On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried, the Chairman and Engineer were authorized to execute application for Highway Safety Project Grand (Form HS 1).

Maps & Plats

K. F. Clay presented Plat of Jackson Park Addition, owners Kermit F. Clay and Lelia E. clay and Rext T. Winn and Joyce E. Winn.  Attorney Duncan advised the streets are the proper width and adjoin state and county roads.  Title opinion from Lake Abstract & Guaranty Co. and the title is in order with no mortgages against the property.  Letter from the County Engineer approving same for septic tank type sewage and advising that permanent streets have been erected, streets cleared by not graded.  Mr. Duncan advised the law provides the graded streets are not required until the lots have been sold.  Mr. Clay stated a grader is on the site now.  on motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the plat was accepted and approved for record. 

E. T. Hall presented Plat of Hobby Hill First Addition, owners Ray J. Newell and Wilma Newell and J. W. Hastings and Betty R. Hastings.  Attorney Duncan advised the streets are the proper width and have proper access to state and county roads.  Lawyers’ Title Guaranty fund Policy No. 317511 shows the title is in order except there is a mortgage on the streets and a partial release releasing the streets.  The plat is acceptable.  Letter form the County engineer recommending the use of septic take type sewage.  Mr. Hall advised permanent street markers are being erected today.  On motion of Commissioner Theus, seconded by Commissioner Dykes the plat was accepted and approved for record. 

County agents

County Agent Earl Kelly appeared and introduced Royce Cecil Williams who is presently Ass.t County Agent in Citrus County.  Mr. Kelly recommended that Mr. Williams be appointed Asst. County Agent at an annual salary of $4,205. And travel expense of $1200., effective May 1, 1968.  On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Theus and carried, Mr. Williams was accepted and approved as Asst. County Agent at the salary stated above.

The Board also approved provision for an additional Asst. County Agent at a cost of $3,500. Salary and $1200. Travel expense effective July 1, 1968.

Licenses & permits

On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, Bonds for carrying firearms were approved for the following:

                                    Earl Clifford Alger

                                    Cecil R. Clark

The Engineer filed the following Use Permits:

No. 114 to Florida Telephone Corporation for the construction and maintenance of buried cable along a portion on County Road 5-9587 between SR 40 and Dexter Palms.

No. 115 to Florida Telephone Corporation for the construction and maintenance of “H” fixture along County Rd.4-4484 South of SR 46.

To Sumter Electric Coop., Inc. for the construction and maintenance of change to power line along County Rd. 1-7611.

Road maintenance

Engineer Hays presented list of roads to be maintained which the Board members considered on March 18.  On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, the priority list of roads was approved. 

Road & bridge department

Engineer Hays advised the Marion County roads have been maintained in accordance with the contract, whereupon, motion was made by Commissioner Theus, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, the Clerk was instructed to forward statement for the road work to Marion County.

Machinery & equipment

The Engineer was instructed to have repairs made to the Asphalt Seaman Mixer in the approximate sum of $300.00.  

Recess & reassembly

The meeting recessed for lunch at 12 o’clock noon and reconvened at 1:15 o’clock P.M. to take up the remaining items of business.  Commissioner Theus was not present during the afternoon session.

Bids

On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Engineer was authorized to prepare specifications and advertise for an industrial tractor.  Bids to be received May 6 at 10 o’clock A.M.

Clerk Owens advised the Architect failed to advertise bids for the removal of the metal fair buildings to meet the requirements of the law, and has rescheduled bids for April 17 at 2 o’clock P.M. if agreeable with the Board.  The change of bid date was approved by the Board.

County engineer

Engineer Hays advised he is being considered as Regional vice President of the National Association of Engineer and asked the Board’s approval, if elected, to attend 4 or 5 meetings a year on the weekends.  On motion of Commissioner Theus, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Engineer was authorized to attend the meetings and his expenses will be paid by the Board in the event the State Association does not pay the expenses.

Appraisal

The following appraisers were appointed by the Board members to appraise County Road rights of way:

                        District No. 1 – Lester Huey

                                            2 – Dalton Payne

                                            3 – Don Driggers

                                            4 –

                                            5 – Memory Martin

Road closings

On motion of Commissioner Windram, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Board adopted a resolution authorizing advertising for a public hearing to be held on May 13, 1968 of the intention to close the following described streets:

That portion of Holmes Avenue lying between the North boundary of Chautauqua Street and the South boundary of Whittier Street;

ALSO: that portion of Emerson Avenue lying between the North boundary of Chautauqua Street and the South boundary of Whittier Street:

ALL according to the Plat of Washington Heights, as the same appears filed and recorded in the public records of Lake County, Florida, in Plat Book 10, Page 14.

It now being the time advertised to hold a public hearing to consider a petition to close portion of the following described streets in Paisley, and no one appeared to object to the closing, action was deferred pending receipt of the deed form the owners for road right of way.

That portion of Avenue B lying between Lots 481 and 482, and lying West of Fourth Street;

That portion of Avenue C lying east of First Street and Central Avenue, and lying between Lots 250 and 251, and 270 and 271;

That portion of Avenue B lying east of East Fourth Street and lying between Lots 11 and 12.

All according to the Map of Paisley, as filed and recorded in the public records of Lake County, Florida, in Plat Book 9, Page 73.

County property

Chester Crum from Inland Abstract & Title Company appeared regarding a strip of land owned by the County and located in the City of Mount Dora.  The adjoining property owner is interested in purchasing the land.  Attorney Duncan advised the land must be appraised and advertised for sale; whereupon, on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram, a resolution was adopted declaring the following described land to be surplus and of no foreseeable use to Lake County:

The west 5 feet of the North 144.5 feet of Block 358 in Section 32, township 19 South, Range 27 east, in the City of Mount Dora, Florida, according to the Official Plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 3, Pages 37 to 43 inclusive, public records of Lake County, Florida.

Road & bridge department

Engineer Hays informed the board the owner of property on SR 500 just South of the County line is interested in selling clay to the County.  The property is a hill which the owner wants graded down.  The engineer was instructed to secure cost price per yard for the clay.

Road maintenance

Engineer Hays stated the Motor Vehicle Inspection Station is located on Center Street in Minneola and the City would like the Board’s assistance in maintaining the street.  Commissioner Cowart moved that the street be improved through to Lakeshore Drive (U.S. 27).  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Dykes and unanimously carried.

County employees

On recommendation of the Engineer and on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram, the Board approved the following number of employees and wage scale for employees of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations:

            1 – Supervisor                                                 $500.00 per month

            1 – Chief Inspector at each station                   425.00 per month

            3 – Inspectors at each station                            400.00 per month

            1 – Clerk at each station                                   300.00 per month

Working hours will be 8:00 o’clock A.M. to 5:00 o’clock P.M. Tuesday through Saturday, except holidays.

The Engineer was instructed to contact a rental uniform service regarding cost of rental uniforms for the vehicle inspection station personnel.

Notice from the Juvenile Court Board of Visitors terminating the employment of Mr. and Mrs. Emory L. Jones effective March 26, 1968 was read and filed.

Public health

After discussing the resolution adopted on March 11, 1968 relative to the requirements of Long Range and Interim Period Plans regarding proper treatment of water and sewage problems, a motion was made by Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried amending the resolution as adopted on March 11, 1968.

Mr. L. T. Barksdale, route 2, Leesburg, appeared relative to the requirements in the above subject resolution and asked the Board’s consideration of exempting his property form the provisions.  Mr. Barksdale advised he has seven acres prepared to be platted at considerable expense.  Commissioner Dykes confirmed Mr. Barksdale’s statement, and on a motion the adoption of a resolution exempting the following described land form the provisions of the Interim Period Plan:

That part of Government Lot 2 in Sec. 18, Tp. 19 S, R. 26 E., in Lake County, Florida, lying South of recorded Plat known as Western Shores, located at the West end of Lake Eustis.

Zoning

Mr. John W. Coffey appeared relative to a variance in zoning classification on property west of Yalaha to permit him to build another cottage on the property.  Zoning Director Webb advised this type use is no longer permitted in Agriculture Classification.  Mr. Coffey was advised to apply to the Board of Zoning Appeals for the variance.

Copy of resolution adopted by the Board of Zoning Appeals granted variance as requested in Appeals Case #2-68 was filed.

Federal agencies

Attorney Duncan reported the Department of Interior has answered our inquiry regarding the purchase of 2.31 acres of land on Cypress Lake.  They will sell the land for $50. Provided it is used for educational or recreational purposes.  On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Attorney was instructed to consummate the purchase of the land, including other lands contiguous in the area.

pollution

On motion of Commissioner Windram, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Attorney was directed to write to the following relative to their interest in serving as a member of the Lake County Water Pollution Control Board:

            Joseph L. Yazvac        - Howey

            George F. Karst          - Clermont

            Neal D. Huebsch         - Eustis

            Delos Kane                 - Leesburg

            Phil Conant                 - Umatilla

            Bob D. Hurley            - Mount Dora

budget

Clerk Owens advised the operation of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations required that the budget be amended to provide the necessary funds, whereupon, on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, a resolution was adopted amending the budget for the fiscal year 1967-68 as follows:

            See Resolution on pages 185-186 in Record Book 20.

Hospitals

On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried, application of Emmett Kirby to the Tuberculosis Hospital was referred to the Welfare Director, and the action of the Chairman and Clerk in approving the application of James Lewis Benton was approved.

State road department

Clerk Owens presented notice from the State Road department together with revised Rules and Regulations of the Highway Secondary Trust Fund Trustees.  The Clerk informed the Board the new rules provide the maximum amount a county with less than 150,000 inhabitants may borrow will be $500,000 and the debt must be paid off within 5 years.

Tax delinquent

On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried, the Clerk was authorized to redeem tax certificate of 1961 #293 non-payment of 1960 taxes in the sum of $11.49.

Courthouse

Clerk Owens advised that the Coast Guard Auxiliary wants to conduct a boat safety program in the County Commissioners’ Room on Monday and Thursday nights for four (4) weeks beginning April 22.  He was instructed to notify the Auxiliary the room will be available.

Tax assessor

Certificates of Correction of Errors and Corrections on the 1967 tax roll numbered 117-123 were approved on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried.

Reports – official

Report of Receipts, Expenses and Net Income from Ernest C. Aulls, Jr., Judge of Small Claims Court, for the year ending December 31, 1967 was filed and approved.  Report shows a net income of $3,169.50.

Outdoor recreational facilities

On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, a resolution was adopted requesting the Department of Interior to establish a National Seashore Park on the Atlantic Coast near New Smyrna in the area known as “Turtle Mount.”

Elections – primary

The board appointed Clerks and Inspectors for the Primary Election on May 7, and the Clerk was instructed to advertise same according to the law.

Clerk Owens advised the voting place for Precinct #39 in Tavares will be the City Hall.

Opinions – legal

The Clerk submitted copy of the Attorney General’s opinion dated January 16, 1968 relative to the Board providing furniture for the State Attorney’s Office.  The Public Defender is requesting the Board to furnish him 3 filing cabinets which are excess equipment in the Clerk’s office.  Attorney Duncan advised as this is equipment already on hand, same can be furnished the Public Defender.

Contracts

Engineer Hays informed the Board the specifications regarding paving streets in Suburban Shores failed to stipulate a time limit, however, the contractors is willing to do the work and receive the contract amount when the special assessments are collected.  The board approved this procedure.

Form of agreement with Jack Jones relative to architect fees on the construction of fair buildings was referred to the Attorney. 

State agencies

On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, the Clerk was directed to notify the Game & Fresh Water Fish Commission that Lake County will participate in a seining program in Lake Eustis and Lake Harris on a 50/50 basis.

Accounts allowed

On recommendation of the engineer and on motion of Commissioner Theus, seconded by Commissioner Dykes, the Board authorized payment of $35.00 to Herbert Sumner for preparatory and clean-up work at the Juvenile Shelter, which was not included in the contract.

On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Engineer was authorized to install wire fencing around the three motor vehicle inspection stations, installation to be by the prison crew.

On motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried, the Board approved payment of $5.00 to the Courthouse Custodian for opening the Courthouse after office hours for various meetings, etc.

On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, requisition from the Clerk of Circuit Court for $200.00 additional monies for paying State trial witnesses for the Fall Term of Court.

Travel expenses were approved for Lorraine Rety to attend Annual Service Officers School and Conference in Daytona Beach, May 4-5; also, J. W. Bryant to attend May 3-12.

Requisition from Waterman Memorial Hospital in the amount of $17,000 was approved on motion of Commissioner Cowart, seconded by Commissioner Dykes and carried.

Requisition from Leesburg General Hospital for $34,000 was approved on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried.

On recommendation of the Clerk and on motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Windram and carried, the Board approved the purchase of two interlocks and sixty-six (66) strap assemblies, including installation, to the 93 voting machines with payments to be made over a two year period.

On motion of Commissioner Dykes, seconded by Commissioner Cowart and carried, the payrolls for March were approved.

Complaints

Letter of complaint from Edward Alden concerning water and sewage treatment requirements was read and filed with the comment the proposal does not meet the requirements.

Communications

Letters from American buildings of Pinellas, Inc. and Aetna Steel Fabricators were referred to the Architect.

Letters from the Ixora garden Club of Eustis and the Clermont Garden club endorsing the proposed long range plan for developing the Lake County exposition Park were read ad filed. 

Letter from the morning Optimist Club recommending a multi-purpose building at the Exposition Park was read and filed.

Copy of letter to Captain Harold Drake from the President of Florida civil Defense Assn. congratulating him on being elected to the position of Central Area Governor was read and filed.

Copy of letter form the Florida State Board of Health regarding Dixieland Trailer Park was filed.

Letter from the Florida State Board of Health regarding Camp Emanuel was filed.

reports

The following monthly reports were filed:

            Home demonstration Agent and Assistants

County Agent and Assistants

            Veterans Service Officer

            Building Department

            Supervisor Surplus Commodity Warehouse

            Florida Division of Corrections re: Lake County Jail and Stockade

            Florida division of Corrections re: Road Prison No. 58

Annual Report from the Department of Public Welfare was filed.

Annual Statistical Report from the Department of Public Welfare was filed.

Agricultural Development Report from E. Central Florida Regional Planning Council was filed.

There being no further business to bring before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 4:30 o’clock P.M.

 

___________________________________                          ______________________________

CLERK                                                                                   CHAIRMAN