A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

may 7, 1974

A regular meeting of the Lake County Board of County Commissioners was held on Tuesday, May 7, 1974 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioner’s Room, Courthouse, Tavares, Florida.

The Chairman called the meeting to order with the following members present: James R. Carson, Jr., Chairman; C.A. Deems; Thomas J. Windram; Glenn C. Burhans; and J.M. Hoskinson.  Others present were:  James C. Watkins, Clerk; Christopher C. Ford, County Attorney; and Andrea Gambrell, Deputy Clerk.

The Invocation was given by James C. Watkins.  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Chairman, James R. Carson, Jr.

minutes

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, the November 20, 1973 minutes were approved as amended.  Commr. Hoskinson was absent for the vote.

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, the November 21, 1973 minutes were approved as amended.  Commr. Hoskinson was absent for the vote.

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, the April 9, 1974 minutes were approved as amended.  Commr. Hoskinson was absent for the vote.

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board requested that Mr. Glyn Faircloth be sent copies of that portion of the April 9, 1974 minutes pertaining to State Agencies.

elections – precincts

Mrs. Emogene Stegall, Supervisor of Elections, appeared before the Board concerning an error in precinct boundaries.  Mrs. Stegall stated that the problem could be solved by changing the Commissioners Districts 1 and 2 boundaries to conform with House District 34 and 35.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried, the Board approved the recommendation of Mrs. Stegall in solving this problem which was caused when the Legislature established House District 34 and 35.  Commr. Hoskinson abstained from voting because he was not present for the entire discussion.

salaries and wages

Mary M. Hamner, R.N., Administrator of the Lake Memorial Nursing Home, appeared before the Board concerning the minimum wage law.  She stated that she had 17 employees that appeared to be making less than the minimum wage.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board approved an increase in salary for the aides in the Nursing Home from $325 per month to $330 per month effective May 1, 1974.

county employees

The Chairman brought to the Board’s attention a letter of resignation from L.L. “Red” Hulett, Assistant Field Manager of Pollution Control.   On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried, the resignation of Mr. Hulett was accepted by the Board effective May 3, 1974, and a resolution was adopted commending him for his service while employed by the County.

Mr. Morey stated that Mrs. Donna Fay Murphy is a laborer on the Road and Bridge crew and is the wife of the Construction Foreman.  County Policy states that any relative of a present County employee must have approval from the Board.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the employment of Mrs. Donna Fay Murphy as a laborer on the Road and Bridge crew.

Commr. Deems presented to the Board the resignation of Miss Jacquelyn Hester, Administrative Assistant to the Public Works Department.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, Miss Hester’s resignation was accepted effective June 30, 1974 and that by a resolution the position of Administrative Assistant to the Public Works and Planning Departments be abolished.

planning and zoning

Mr. Michael Willett, Planning Director, appeared before the Board stating that he had received communications from the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council asking if the Board would like to have a representative of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council present at the DRI hearing of Villeron XIII on May 20, 1974.  The Board members instructed Mr. Willett to inform the Planning Council that the Board would be pleased to have a representative present at the hearing.

east central florida regional planning council

Commr. Carson brought before the Board a letter from the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council requesting Lake County to appoint one representative to the Florida Aviation Systems Plan Technical Committee.  Commr. Carson stated that he would like to recommend Mr. Frank B. Ezell of Leesburg as the Lake County Representative to this advisory committee.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the recommended appointment of Mr. Ezell to this committee.

beverage law

Commr. Burhans presented to the Board a letter from Mrs. Mary Ann Mahoney regarding the selling of beer and wine on Sunday.  The Clerk was instructed to write to Mrs. Mahoney informing her that her letter has been referred to the County Attorney for research.

public health

Commr. Windram brought to the Board’s attention that the Highway Patrol is having budget problems and that when an officer resigns, the Highway Patrol is not replacing him.  The newness of the 55 mph speed limit is wearing off, and drivers are back up to 60 or 70 mph.  The Highway Patrol’s problem is not having enough officers or traffic guns to enforce the speed limit.  Commr. Windram stated that he realizes that this is the State’s responsibility, but yet if the Highway Patrol can’t get the job done, it isn’t helping Lake County.  It was the suggestion of Commr. Windram that he speak with the Sheriff’s Department and the Highway Patrol with the idea in mind that the Board of County Commissioners would buy the Speed Guns and loan them out to the Highway Patrol on a hand-receipt basis.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board instructed Commr. Windram to discuss this problem with the Highway Patrol.

Commr. Carson presented to the Board a letter from Mr. G.M. Dykes, Jr. from the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services objecting to the County considering a landfill operation near the water supply wells serving Astor.  Commr. Burhans stated that this land was under consideration but has been abandoned, and the Board is now considering an area three miles away.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr. Dykes informing him of the change in plans and assure him that when a permit is obtained, it will be in full compliance with the regulations.

Commr. Carson presented to the Board a letter from the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services to the citizens of Tavares regarding the Physicians and Surgeons Ambulance Service.  Christopher C. Ford, County Attorney, stated that a copy of the letter from the Health and Rehabilitative Services should be sent to the City Council of Tavares.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the above letter was referred to the County Attorney for immediate attention to clarify its contents.

Commr. Carson asked Christopher C. Ford, County Attorney, if he had received any response from other counties regarding the building of a morgue to be used by the Medical Examiner.  Mr. Ford stated that he had only heard from two, and they were not interested in financing a morgue to be used by the Medical Examiner.  Mr. Ford further stated that Hernando County was receiving approximately $1,000 in bills per year from the Medical Examiner.  The Board requested the Attorney to contact the Medical Examiner and ask him to place the residence of the victim on the bill sent to Lake County, because it was the Board’s opinion that Lake County is being charged for the majority of work done because the Medical Examiner is located in Lake County.  The Board further requested the County Attorney to research the matter to find out what if anything can be done to correct this situation.

Commr. Hoskinson suggested that the Board write to the State Department of Pollution Control requesting a one-year extension on the condemned landfills.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board requested that the Clerk write to the State Department of Pollution Control requesting a one-year extension on the landfills in Astor, Clermont, Montverde, and Bay Lake.  The Board requested that a copy of this letter be sent to the Legislative Delegation.

tax assessor

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried, the Certificates of Error and Corrections 10362-10373 on the 1973 Tax Roll were approved and #10355 was voided.

clerk of the circuit court

On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Board authorized a telemote unit to be installed in the Clerk’s office as well as a two band radio be installed in his automobile, and that it would be purchased with funds budgeted for the Clerk’s office equipment.

deeds

Christopher C. Ford, County Attorney, stated that due to a title problem, he would like authorization from the Board to negotiate with Mrs. Elizabeth Burleigh for the purpose of obtaining a quitclaim deed to the Pioneer Building land site.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board approved the County Attorney to take whatever steps needed to obtain a clear title to the land in question.

sheriff

Commr. Windram brought to the Board’s attention that Sheriff Guy Bliss has requested a liaison Commissioner to assist him with his budget for the 1974-75 fiscal year.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board appointed Commr. James Carson as this liaison Commissioner.

bonds

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the following Firearm Bonds were approved:

Albert P. Boyle – Security

James M. Miller – Dispatcher, Eustis Police Department

Douglas W. Bevill – Security Guard

Walter Imel – Assistant Manager of a Gas Station

James J. Hay – Firearm Salesman

James D. Davis – Florida Telephone Corp.

Maurice E. Hindman – Chief of Security at Sun Bank, Leesburg

John E. O’Bryant – Assistant Cashier at Sun Bank

Watson Bacon

Jimmie A. Watson – Grocery Store Owner (2)

Carrie Anderson – Employee of Jimmie A. Watson

Carol J. Watson – Employee of Jimmie A. Watson

Charlene Mikell – Employee of Jimmie A. Watson

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the following Contractor Bonds were approved:

354-73 Joseph L. Sandronia dba Modern Movers, Inc.

1174    James S. Daugherty (Specialty)

1175    Charles Copeland (Residential Building)

1176    Abraham Johnson dba Johnson and Montgomery

1177    W.B. Meyers dba Carefree Pools, Inc.

1178    John R. Simms dba Clermont Hardware & Supply Co. Inc.

1179    John P. Volzone (Swimming Pools)

1180    Jerry D. Erlewein

1181    William Reed Johnson (Electrical)

1182    Jerry C. Szeliga (Plumbing)

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the following Contractor Bonds were approved for cancellation:

500      John R. Conner dba Gold Seal Pools, Inc.

1014    Arthur Lee Clark

561      James Street dba Lake Sumter Aluminum Co.

467      Ira L. Barbee (Carpentry and Masonry)

854      Earl F. Sowards (Carpentry)

404      W.C. Hammock dba Hammock Brothers Roofing

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans, the following Deputy Sheriff Bonds were approved:

Luches L. Hulett

Lenord J. Blair

C.T. Owenby

Sheila Schwartz

Carol a. Campbell

Sandra R. Franklin

reports

Mr. James C. Watkins, Clerk, reported on the meeting he attended in Orlando on April 18, 1974 concerning the Sanford Crime Laboratory.  Mr. Watkins stated that discussion was held concerning the funding of State Crime Laboratories, but that it was decided that the Laboratories should remain funded on an independent basis until the State Wide Laboratories could be brought up to the same standard of operation as the laboratories now operating.

The Clerk informed the Board that he had sent to Leonard Wegman Company, Inc., Engineers, the information necessary to qualify under the Competitive Negotiations Act.

contracts and agreements

The Clerk brought before the Board a letter from Kerr-McGee Corporation on behalf of the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad informing the Clerk that the rent for the property adjacent to the Courthouse will be set at $45 per year.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved pursuing this lease agreement with Seaboard Coast Line Railroad based on the need for additional parking.

James C. Watkins, Clerk, brought before the Board the contract with Youth Services, Inc.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Chairman and Clerk were authorized to sign the agreement as amended.

recess and reassembly

The Chairman announced that the Commissioners would have lunch at the Green Tile Restaurant in Eustis and that the public and press were invited on a Dutch-treat basis.

roads – county

Mr. William Henderson, Code Enforcement Officer, brought before the Board a petition from the residents in Golden Isle Subdivision requesting that a load limit be placed on trucks entering or parking on the streets within that area.  The Code Enforcement Officer recommended that a “Five Ton Load Limit” be established in this subdivision.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, a resolution was adopted placing a five-ton load limit on the streets in the Golden Isle Subdivision.

Mr. Michael Donoghue, County Engineer, appeared before the Board.  Mr. Donoghue stated that he was becoming oriented with the Public Works Department since beginning work on May 1, 1974.  Mr. Donoghue asked Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, to present the items for the Board’s discussion.

Mr. Morey brought before the Board a request for Mr. C. E. Middlebrooks to obtain a Hauling Permit for County Road 4-4298.  The County Attorney stated that it would be advisable to have a $20,000 Bond to cover any damage done to the road.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the County agrees to enter into the agreement as presented by Mr. C.E. Middlebrooks to haul fill dirt over a County Road with the addition of a $20,000 bond and that he also notify the Public Works Department at the beginning and the completion of the work.

Mr. Morey requested permission to establish a School Crossing on DR 4-3987.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Board approved establishing a School Crossing on DR 4-3987.

Mr. Morey presented a request from Mr. Sam Carroll of Donna Vista regarding improvements to a dedicated public road in Donna Vista that is not maintained by the County.    On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the Public Works Department to establish cost estimates on time and material basis for improvements to Pine Drive in Donna Vista.

Mr. Morey presented another request from a landowner in Donna Vista to clear a portion of the right-of-way on Washington Avenue in Donna Vista.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, the above request was approved.  The work will be done at the owner’s expense.  Commr. Burhans abstained due to a possible conflict of interest.  The Affidavit concerning a possible conflict of interest is on file in the Minute Folder of May 1974.

Mr. Morey requested permission to make a study of DR 5-7528 to determine if speed signs are justified.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the speed limit study for DR 5-7528.

courthouse

Commr. Carson asked the Board if it should take any action on the meeting the County Attorney had with Mr. Duncan with regards to moving his building.  Commr. Windram stated that some house movers should be contacted to find out approximate costs.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Architects are to be instructed to contact house moving companies to obtain the cost, time element and the reestablishment of utility service for Mr. C.E. Duncan’s building.

licenses and permits

Commr. Carson presented to the Board a letter from Mr. William Hennessey, Acting Director of Pollution Control, requesting the Board’s approval for Mr. John E. Aills of Leesburg to apply to the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund to build a boat ramp, fill in a portion of an existing canal, and put a seawall across his lakefront.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board had no objection to Mr. Aills applying for this permit.

deeds

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, presented to the Board a request to release Murphy Act Deed #1086.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, a resolution was adopted to release Murphy Act Deed 1086 with the exception of 33 feet along the northern end of the center line of County Road 1-8010.

road closings

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, requested permission to advertise to vacate a portion of Sunrise Drive in Breezee Shores Subdivision.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the request to advertise the above road closing for May 21, 1974 at 10:00 a.m. was approved.

road and bridge

Commr. Hoskinson stated that on Lake Louise Road they are having a fishing tournament and would like to have “No Parking” signs placed 600 yards in both directions from the launching area entrance.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, temporary “No Parking” signs will be placed on Lake Louise Road 600 yards in either direction from the launching site.

machinery and equipment

Commr. Hoskinson stated that he had been contacted by the Mascotte Elementary School requesting the use of the County’s Water Wagon on its Little League Field.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, County Equipment was authorized to be used on property owned by the School Board for improving the Little League Fields on a one-time basis only.

Commr. Hoskinson brought before the Board another request for use of County Equipment from the Minneola Mission Alliance Baptist Church.  The County Attorney stated that this was private property, and therefore County Equipment could not be used.

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, requested permission to advertise for two motor graders and lowboy tractor for the Fiscal Year 1973-74.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried, the Board approved for the Public Works Department to write the specifications and advertise for bids on the above-mentioned items to be opened on June 11, 1974 at 10:00 a.m.  Commr. Burhans voted “no.”  Commr. Burhans stated he is opposed to the specifications that have been used in the past, because in his opinion, they are not stringent enough to bring quality equipment into County service.

autos and trucks

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, presented to the Board the specifications for the new station wagon for the Lake County Agricultural Agent.  Mr. James C. Watkins, Clerk, noted that a radio was not included in the specifications and that an AM radio should be included so that the Agricultural Agent can keep track of the weather conditions. On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the Board approved the specifications of the new station wagon for the Agricultural Center with the addition of the AM radio and that proper advertisement be made.  The bids will be opened on June 11, 1974 at 10:00 a.m.

maps and plats

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, requested the Board’s approval of the Plat of Lee Acres Subdivision.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Plat of Lee Acres, meeting the County Standards, was approved by the Board.

Mr. Morey presented to the Board another Plat of Cedar Park Subdivision for its approval.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried, the Plat of Cedar Park, meeting all the County’s standards, was approved by the Board.  Commr. Carson abstained from voting due to a possible conflict of interest.  The affidavit concerning the possible conflict of interest is on file in the Minute folder for May 1974.

Mr. Morey brought to the Board’s attention the Pitman area.  He stated that it is unplatted and that a map has never been drawn.  The Board referred this to the County Attorney.

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the Lake Improvement Association, Inc. to have the Southern Guide Fishing Maps of Tallahassee prepare maps of eight major lakes in Lake County.

James C. Watkins, Clerk, brought to the Board’s attention that from time to time due to the public use of the zoning maps, they need replacement.  The Clerk asked for authorization to sign replacement maps for originals approved when Frank E. Owens was in office and requested the Board’s approval to microfilm the zoning maps for permanent record which would not be used by the public.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Clerk was authorized to sign the replacement maps and also gave the Clerk permission to have the zoning maps microfilmed if it was possible.

roads – state

The Chairman brought before the Board a letter from C.A. Benedict, District Engineer for the Department of Transportation, requesting that due to a technical error, it will be necessary that the Board reconfirm its desire by resolution to proceed with State Project No. 11050-2507 (SR 19A) in Fiscal Year 1943-74.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, a resolution was adopted reconfirming the Board’s desire to proceed with State Project No. 11050-2507 in the Fiscal Year 1973-74.

Commr. Carson brought before the Board another letter from the Department of Transportation accompanied with a proposed typical section for the design of Secondary Funds:  Job No. 11640-1609, S-33, Dixie Avenue SR 25 to Canal Street.  On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the typical section as prepared by the Department of Transportation was approved and the Chairman and Clerk were authorized to sign same.

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, a resolution was adopted to be sent to the Department of Transportation requesting the deletion of Work Program Item #522594 which is the resurfacing of State Road S-565 from SR 50 to SR 25 from the Current Florida DOT Construction Plan.

state agencies

It was brought to the Board’s attention that the Commissioners had received several letters from individuals concerning the discontinuance of the Lake Community Action Agency.  Discussion was held.  The Board requested Commr. Burhans to look into the matter and report back to the Board.

meetings

Commr. Hoskinson presented to the Board a memorandum from Senator Jim Glisson to Senators Jim Williams and Bruce Smathers requesting that they delay taking up Senate Bill 232.  The Bill concerns persons owning property in an area designated an area of critical concern allowing the property owners to petition the Tax Assessor for a reclassification and reassessment of the land based on its designation as an area of “Critical State Concern.”  The Board requested that the County Attorney try to attend this hearing.  Mr. Ford stated that it would also be advisable that some of the commissioners attend this hearing also.  Mr. Ford will try to find out when and where this hearing will take place.

tax valuation and equalization

Mr. Otis Lee representing the Astor Park Water Association appeared before the Board to request relief of taxes on the 1973 tax roll for property owned by the Association.  The County Attorney stated that he saw no reason why this request could not be handled in the same manner as the Board handled tax relief with regard to municipalities.  The Tax Assessor had written for an Attorney General’s Opinion, and no action should be taken until the opinion is received.  The Board took no action at this time.

Mrs. Wanda Isaacs appeared before the Board regarding property she bought through a tax sale and later discovered that the property possibly belonged to the federal government.  The County Attorney stated the procedures she must follow to have her money returned to her.  Mrs. Isaacs would prefer to keep the land if she could obtain a clear title.  The County Attorney advised her that if she intends to legally keep the land, it would be advisable to retain a private attorney.  No action was taken at this time.

road material

Mr. Larry Morey, Assistant County Engineer, requested that the County Attorney contact John M. Warren Co of Mobile Alabama regarding its negligence in furnishing sign materials at its annual bid price. On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Hoskinson and carried unanimously, the County Attorney was instructed to write to the John M. Warren Co. stating that they will be expected to honor their bid price.  Copies of this letter are to be sent to Dunn and Bradstreet and the banks having accounts with John M. Warren Co.

mvi

Commr. Windram brought to the Board’s attention the matter of installing the Brake Machines at Leesburg and Minneola.  Commr. Windram stated that Mr. Norman Trampish would install them after hours.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, Mr. Norman Trampish and an assistant were authorized to install the new Brake Machines in Leesburg and Minneola on an overtime pay basis.

animals

Miss Dorothy Gross, Lake County Animal Shelter Manager, appeared before the Board and presented the Operations Report for April.  Miss Gross stated that the volunteers had collected $2,615.52 for the Euthanasia Machine and stated that to order the machine it was required to have ½ the cost as a down payment.  The total price of this machine is $3,915.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board approved the proper authority to order the Euthanasia Machine for the Animal Shelter.

fire districts

Commr. Burhans brought to the Board’s attention the two severe fires in Paisley and that Mr. Fred Bollenberg and those that assisted him did an outstanding job in the control of the fires.  He suggested that a letter of appreciation be sent to all involved on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Clerk was instructed to obtain the names and addresses of all individuals and organizations involved in the firefighting in Paisley and write them a letter of appreciation on behalf of the Board.

prisoners

Commr. Carson presented to the Board a letter from the Boy Scouts of America requesting the use of Prisoners to clear brush from the Scout Camp at Camp La-No’-Che in Paisley.  On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the request of the Boy Scouts, provided the workers are available.

resolution

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Board adopted a resolution requesting the Florida Legislative Delegation to provide for the payment of autopsies by the state rather than from the County Fine and Forfeiture Fund and that a copy be sent to our Delegation.

On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board adopted a resolution cancelling taxes on certain land in Lake County acquired by the State of Florida for recreational purposes.

On a motion by Commr. Hoskinson, seconded by Commr. Deems and carried unanimously, the Board adopted a resolution cancelling taxes on certain land in Lake County acquired by the State of Florida for the purpose of creating a facility for the Division of Corrections.

communications

The Chairman presented to the Board a letter from the City of Leesburg to Mr. John McLeod of Royal Industries requesting a letter stating that Royal Industries will be responsible for all materials purchased in the Crossover at East Highway 441 at the entrance to Royal Industries’ property.  A letter conforming to this request was written by Mr. John McLeod.  Both letters are on file in the Minute Folder of May 1974.

Commr. Carson brought before the Board a letter from the Department of Transportation regarding Chapter 72-328 of the Florida Statutes dealing with the minimum standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of Florida’s streets and highways.  This was referred to Mr. Michael Donoghue, County Engineer.

Mr. James C. Watkins, Clerk, brought to the Board’s attention a letter from Mr. Carl R. Ludecke, Realtor, asking if the County would be interested in selling Lot 21, Block 15 of East Umatilla Lots, which the County owns.  The Board requested the Clerk to write to Mr. Ludecke informing him that the County has no interest in selling the property at this time.

Commr. Carson presented to the Board a request from the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District asking that the week of May 19-26 be proclaimed as Soil Stewardship Week.  On a motion by Commr. Windram, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried unanimously, the Board approved their request and instructed the County Attorney to draw up the proclamation.

checks received

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board accepted a refund check in the amount of $1,955.80, which is the balance of the payroll for witnesses.

accounts allowed

Mr. Michael Willett brought before the Board a memo from Mr. Fred Bollenberg concerning communications equipment.  Due to inflation, the equipment which was authorized for purchase in the 1973-74 budget at $1600 has increased to $1767.15, which is $167.15 more than the approved amount.  On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the transfer of $167.15 from Contingency in the General Revenue Fund to Account #3991402.

On a motion by Commr. Burhans, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved travel for the Public Works Director, Assistant Public Works Director, and Road Superintendent to the American Public Works Association meeting in St. Petersburg from May 8 to May 11, 1974.

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the rental of a house in Tavares at $200 per month plus utilities for Mr. John Howze and his workers while they complete the Tax Reevaluation in Lake County.

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the bills to Mid Florida Boiler, Inc. for work done on the boiler in the Sheriff’s Department in the amount of $3,131.09 were approved, and the transfer of $3,131.09 from Contingency in the General Revenue Fund to account #3344337 was authorized.

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Burhans and carried, travel was approved for Philip J. Yoder and Margaret M. Gebhart to Key West on April 28, 29, 30 and May 1, 1974.

On a motion by Commr. Deems, seconded by Commr. Windram and carried unanimously, the Board approved the purchase of two Remington adding machines in the amount of $179.55 each; one will be charged to the County Court Budget and the other to the Circuit Court Budget.

There being no further business to be brought before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

 

 

_________________________________

james r. carson, jr., chairman

 

___________________________

James C. Watkins, Clerk