LAKE COUNTY VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD MEETING

MARCH 4, 1997

The Lake County Value Adjustment Board met in regular session on Tuesday, March 4, 1997, at 8:30 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner's Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Welton G. Cadwell, Chairman; William "Bill" H. Good, Vice Chairman and Catherine C. Hanson. School Board members present were: Tom Chapman and Kyleen Fisher. Others present were Sanford "Sandy" Minkoff, County Attorney; Ginger Casburn, Exemptions Supervisor; Property Appraiser's Office; and Toni M. Riggs, Deputy Clerk.

VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD

MINUTES

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Mr. Chapman and carried by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of January 21, 1997, as presented.

Ms. Fisher was not present for the discussion or vote.

PETITION NO. 1996-294-L IVY KATHLEEN BALL

Ms. Ginger Casburn, Exemptions Supervisor, explained that the petitioner would have been approved for homestead, except that she had filed too late for 1996. Ms. Casburn stated that Ms. Ball was wanting a 1996 bill correction.

Commr. Cadwell explained to Ms. Ball that she would need to explain to the VAB why she filed late, before discussion could be held about the exemption.

Ms. Ivy Kathleen Ball addressed the Board and stated that she did not know any better when it came to filing a petition.

Commr. Cadwell explained that the law requires that there be some type of mitigating circumstances to prevent someone from filing.

Ms. Ball explained that she lived in a trailer, but she had moved back into her home, on June 5, 1995, because the people who were renting it were destroying the property. She further explained that she lived in the home until last year. Ms. Ball stated that, because the tenants moved out without paying, it would be a big help on her finances, if her request for homestead was approved.

It was noted that Ms. Kyleen Fisher arrived for the meeting at 8:40 a.m., and she requested that the Chairman bring her up to date on the issue before the VAB.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Mr. Chapman and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the VAB denied the request to open the case on homestead exemption, due to the lack of extenuating circumstances.

There being no further issue to be brought to the attention of the VAB, the meeting recessed at 8:45 a.m.



WELTON G. CADWELL, CHAIRMAN



ATTEST:







JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK



TMR\BOARDMIN\3-4-97\3-4-97



A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

MARCH 4, 1997

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 4, 1997, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner's Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: William "Bill" H. Good, Chairman; G. Richard Swartz, Jr., Vice Chairman; Catherine C. Hanson; and Welton G. Cadwell. Commr. Rhonda H. Gerber was not present, due to another commitment. Others present were: Sue Whittle, County Manager; Sanford (Sandy) A. Minkoff, County Attorney; Ava Kronz, Director of Continuous Quality Improvement; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

Commr. Cadwell gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

AGENDA UPDATE

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that she would like to add, under her County Manager's Report, an update on the Visioning Process that is under way and noted that Judge Mark Hill had requested that the Law Library Fees Ordinance be heard at 10:00 a.m.

CLERK OF COURTS' CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

Accounts Allowed/Budgets/Budget Transfers/County Finance

Resolutions



Request for approval of Budget Adjustments for FY 1996-97, as follows:



A. Transfers



1. Fund: General

Department: Constitutional Officer - Sheriff

From: Contingency - Sheriff $10,000

To: Transfer - Jail Capital $10,000

Transfer #: 97-097



Justification: Pursuant to F.S. 30.49, the Sheriff is requesting that $10,000 be transferred into the Corrections Capital Outlay.



2. Fund: General

Department: Constitutional Officer - Sheriff

From: Contingency - General $12,304

To: Aids to Government Agencies $12,304

Transfer #: 97-098



Justification: The Sheriff is requesting reimbursement from the General Fund for costs associated with the Jail Work Farm.



3. Fund: County Transportation Trust

Department: Public Works

From: Contingency $20,000

To: Professional Services $20,000

Transfer #: 97-087



Justification: Additional funds needed to pay for legal services regarding "Todd vs. Lake County".



Accounts Allowed/Courts-Judges



Request for approval of Satisfaction of Judgment for Edward Johnson, in the amount of $250.00, Case No. 87-1253CFA01, and authorized proper signatures on same.



Bonds/County Finance



Request for approval of Engagement Letter, with regard to the calculation of arbitrage rebate on the $35,995,000 Lake County, Florida, Sales Tax Refunding Revenue Bonds, Series 1992.



Bonds - Contractor



Request for approval of Contractor Bonds - New, Stipulation, and Cancellation, as follows:



New



5060-97 Howard N. Hill d/b/a Hill Roofing Company, Inc.

5522-97 James B. McCullar (Residential)

5523-97 Cardinal Construction & Aluminum, Inc./Leon Merian (General)

5524-97 Charles Gabriel d/b/a Gabriel Plumbing

5525-97 David Harbin d/b/a Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning

Stipulation



5097-97 Eugene W. Maines d/b/a Maines Electric

(Principal's name is amended to: Eugene W. Maines d/b/a Registered Electric)



Cancellation



4962-96 John P. Ryan



Accounts Allowed/County Property



Request to approve list of items to be deleted from Fixed Assets, for the month of February, 1997, in the amount of $66,341.49.



Accounts Allowed



Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136 of the Florida Statutes, which shall be incorporated into the Minutes as attached Exhibit A and filed in the Board Support Division of the Clerk's Office.



Reports/State Agencies



Request to acknowledge receipt of Fiscal Year 1996 Fiscal Report and Fiscal Year 1997 Five Year Capital Improvement Plan for the Southwest Florida Water Management District.



State Agencies



Request to acknowledge receipt of St. Johns River Water Management District surplus equipment list.

Reports/State Agencies



Request to acknowledge receipt of State of Florida Auditor General Report No. 12899 - Audit of Lake County District School Board, for Fiscal Year ended June 30, 1996.



Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that she would like to pull Tab 5, a request from Growth Management for approval to renew a Mobile Home Bond for Benjamin Blasingim, to keep a travel trailer on his property, located north of Griffin Avenue, while construction of his conventional home is completed - Commissioner District 5; and Tab 7, a request from Growth Management for approval to fill a Building Inspector position that was put on hold at the beginning of Fiscal Year 1996-97, from the County Manager's Consent Agenda, to be rescheduled at a later date.

Commr. Hanson noted, for the record, that Tab 3, a request from Facilities and Capital Improvements for approval and execution of an Agreement between Lake County and the Eustis Little League, Inc., pertains to community recreational equipment, rather than programs. She then noted that she was glad to see that the sidewalk program, alluded to in Tab 10, a request from Public Works for approval to advertise for bids for Countywide Sidewalk Project No. 2-97, was going forward.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:



Community Services/Miscellaneous



Request from Community Services for approval and execution of Satisfaction of Mortgage for Eunice Williams.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Municipalities

Facilities and Capital Improvements



Request from Facilities and Capital Improvements for approval and execution of Agreement between Lake County and Eustis Little League, Inc., relating to contribution of infrastructure sales tax funds, for community recreational equipment.



Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases and Agreements

Fire and Emergency Services/State Agencies



Request from Fire and Emergency Services for approval and execution of Addendum to Cooperative Agreement between Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry, and Lake County, for forest/wildland fire protection, at a fiscal impact of $9,229.83.



Bonds - Mobile Home/Growth Management



Request from Growth Management for approval of cancellation of the following Mobile Home Bonds:



MB 4-90-15 Margaret Braun Shegas

MB 5-91-12 George Rossell

MB 1-92-1 Robert Perdue

MB 10-93-8 David Duitsman

MB 5-94-4 Walter Roenbeck and Marsha Young

MB 5-94-5 James Flach

MB 13-94-5 DeWaine and Lisa Isaacs

MB 15-94-2 Barry Erckert

MB 3-95-2 Debbie Little

MB 7-95-2 David Lawrence

MB 8-95-2 Barbara McCaskill

MB 10-95-2 Lauri Palmer

MB 13-95-2 Robert and Connie Price

MB 14-95-3 Clyde and Sandra Nelson



County Employees/Human Resources



Request from Human Resources for approval of certificates for employees with one and three years of service to the County.



Accounts Allowed/Public Works/Road Projects

Roads-County and State



Request from Public Works for approval to award CR 455 Rebuilding and Resurfacing Project No. 11-96, Bid No. 97-061, to C.A. Meyer Paving and Construction Company; and approval to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $383,792.10, from the Transportation Trust Fund - Commissioner District 2.



Accounts Allowed/Bids/Public Works



Request from Public Works for approval to advertise for bids for Countywide Sidewalk Project No. 2-97, at an estimated cost of $100,601.00, from the Transportation Trust Fund.





Accounts Allowed/County Employees/Grants/Public Works



Request from Public Works for approval to apply for grant, in the amount of $24,000.00, to assist in funding of a Transportation Traffic Safety/Crash Studies Engineer position.



Resolutions/Rights-of-Way, Roads and Easements

Public Works



Request from Public Works for approval and execution of Resolution requesting a Perpetual Easement for Poe Street

(5-5834).



Resolutions/Roads-County and State/Signs/Public Works



Request from Public Works for approval and execution of Resolution to post "No Trucks" signs at both ends of Vista Del Lago Boulevard (2-0850), in the south Lake County area.



Deeds/Roads-County and State/Public Works



Request from Public Works for acceptance of the following deeds:



Statutory Warranty



Michael J. Straub and Andrea Lee Straub

Twin Ponds Road (5-7676)



David B. Royal, et al

Twin Ponds Road (5-7676)



Azar S. Ali

CR 455



George R. Ikeler and Muni V. Padman

Merry Road (Center Section)



Drainage Easement



Charles N. and Delores M. Youngblood

Shirley Shores Subdivision



Jack W. and Shirley M. Guignard

Shirley Shores Subdivision



Assessments/Roads-County and State/Solid Waste



Request from Solid Waste for approval and authorization for Chairman to execute nine (9) Satisfaction of Assessment Liens, for road assessments, as follows:



ASSESS NO. NAME DATE PAID



657001 Pamela M. Toffey 12/03/96

671044 John Prowse 01/28/97

671147 Robert G. Buckner 01/06/97

677002 Patrick D. & Dawn R. Case 01/21/97

677020 Terry L. Klis & Charlotte M. Pentz 01/07/97

677048 Robert Puckett, Jr. 01/21/97

679065 Roland L. & Lynn E. Broadway 01/16/97

772078 Jessica L. Anderson 01/02/97



Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.



PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCES

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

Ms. Lourdes Ramos, Personnel Manager, Human Resources, appeared before the Board and noted the accomplishments of the employee receiving an award this date.

Commr. Good presented said employee with the Employee Award, as follows:

Plaque to Employee with Ten Years of Service to the County



Robert D. Rinehart, Assistant Mosquito and Aquatic Plant Management Director, Public Works, Special Services Division, Mosquito and Aquatic Plant Management Services, Aquatic Plant Management



PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCES

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

Commr. Good presented "PRIDE" Certificates, as follows:

Office of Agricultural Education Service



Rene' Bass - Cooperative Extension Service, Family and Consumer Sciences



County Attorney Office



Bruce Duncan



Department of Growth Management



Katy Courtney - Building Services Division



Donna Bechtel - Planning and Development Services Division



David Hansen - Planning and Development Services Division



Information Services Division



Laura Nichols - E9-1-1 Service

(Not Present)



Department of Public Works



Dennis Warren - Maintenance Area III (Umatilla)



Office of Purchasing



Judi Reid



Department of Solid Waste Management Services



Charles K. Goen



Elaine Hawthorne



PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCES

RESOLUTIONS/EDUCATION

Commr. Good presented a Resolution to Jammie Pennington, a Senior at Mt. Dora High School, congratulating her on her many achievements in cheerleading and on being selected as a member of the All-Star Cheerleading Squad.

MINUTES

Regarding the Minutes of January 23, 1997 (Special Meeting - Board Advance), it was noted that, at the Board Meeting of February 18, 1997, the Board requested that said Minutes be postponed until this meeting, in order to allow staff to review the tapes of said meeting and clarify the language, with regard to the issue of the expenditure for Prelude, in the amount of $200,000.00.

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that the Clerk's Office checked the tape, as requested, and that, while there was a great deal of discussion going on at that point in the meeting, it appears the Minutes accurately reflect what was stated.

Commr. Swartz referred to Page 7, Line 23, stating that he recalled that particular discussion, with regard to Prelude, however, did not recall doing what the Minutes reflect on Page 10, Lines 9-10. He stated that the outcome of the Board Advance Meeting did not include renovating Prelude, in the amount of $200,000.00, therefore, noted that, if it was said, it needs to be noted that it was said in error, because it was not what the Board concluded at said workshop. He stated that, as he recalled, it was discussed by Mr. Mike Anderson, Senior Director, Facilities and Capital Improvements, but the Board did not list it as one of their priorities.

Commr. Hanson stated that it was set forth as more of a workshop type item and prioritizing of the expenditure, but a vote was not taken regarding it.

Ms. Whittle, County Manager, stated that she did not come out of that meeting with the Prelude renovation on her list, therefore, noted that staff would bring said list back to the Board at a later date.

Commr. Cadwell suggested that the Board approve the Minutes of January 23, 1997 (Special Meeting - Board Advance), as presented, and then correct what was done at the next Board Advance, scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 1997.

A motion was made by Commr. Hanson and seconded by Commr. Swartz to approve the Minutes of January 23, 1997 (Special Meeting - Board Advance), as presented.

Under discussion, Commr. Good noted that, on Page 11, Lines 38-43, it reflects the projects as they would have been prioritized and the Prelude renovation is shown as an "A" item.

Commr. Swartz stated that he did not come out of the Board Advance Meeting with the Prelude renovation being an "A" item. He stated that it is not, in his opinion, an "A" item and noted that the Board has not had a request from the Sheriff to do it, therefore, felt the matter should be addressed and clarified at the next Board Advance Meeting.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

PUBLIC HEARING

ASSESSMENT ROLL SA-86 - DIVISION STREET

ASSESSMENTS/RESOLUTIONS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE/PUBLIC WORKS

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, appeared before the Board and explained this request, stating that it was a request to award and authorize Project No. SA-86, Division Street, in the Highland Lakes area, Special Assessment Lump Sum Construction, to Paquette Paving; to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $107,386.00, Commissioner District 4, CTT Funds; and to execute the assessment roll resolution for the Division Street special assessment. He stated that petitions were received from 64% of the property owners requesting that the street be paved and brought into the County Road Maintenance System.

Mr. Stivender discussed some concerns that had been brought to his attention from several residents in the area, one being Ms. Carol Neill, regarding the legal description of her property and the use of a 25 foot easement along the south side of the property that the County is utilizing for the right-of-way for this project, and the second being a couple of lots (75 and 76) where the property owners (Dignan and Bush) are asking for an adjustment to their front footage, due to the fact that they are being assessed an excessive amount of money, because of the shape of their lots. He stated that staff checked with the County Attorney's Office, regarding the use of the 25 foot easement, and was informed that it was a viable right-of-way and that adjustments had been made in the assessments of Lots 75 and 76.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Mr. Jere Bush, one of the residents of Division Street whose assessment was lowered, appeared before the Board stating that he was not in favor of Division Street being paved, yet was being forced to pay his share of the paving, and that he was concerned about the fact that his property will be valued the same as his neighbor's property, even though he will have had to put out a larger expenditure than his neighbor, however, felt the solution Mr. Stivender alluded to would alleviate part of the problem. He noted that two of his neighbors will have full use of the road, with no expense at all to them, due to the fact that the paving will stop just this side of their properties.

Ms. Edythe Bach, a resident of Division Street, appeared before the Board stating that Division Street receives a lot of traffic from the other roads in the area, because they are inaccessible, therefore, feels the County should pave them, as well. She stated that Division Street needs to be paved, noting that her husband died, because emergency vehicles were unable to travel down the road.

Mr. Tom Harbin, a resident of Division Street, appeared before the Board stating that the road is not for the people that live on it, but for the community. He stated that the paving is badly needed and requested the Board to approve the request.

There being no further individuals who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

It was noted that, once the road is paved, the speed limit will be 25 mph.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works to award and authorize Project No. SA-86, Division Street, in the Highland Lakes area, Special Assessment Lump Sum Construction, to Paquette Paving; to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $107,386.00, Commissioner District 4, CTT Funds; and to execute the assessment roll resolution for the Division Street Special Assessment, with changes to the Dignan

(Lot 75) and Bush (Lot 76) properties, as noted.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

PUBLIC HEARING

BUILDING DEPARTMENT/GROWTH MANAGEMENT/ORDINANCES

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, placed the proposed ordinance on the floor for its first and final reading, by title only, as follows:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 6 OF THE LAKE COUNTY CODE, BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION, IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FOR CONSISTENCY WITH SECTION 489, FLORIDA STATUTES, AND RULE 61G4-20.001, FLORIDA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (F.A.C.), AS AMENDED BY THE FLORIDA CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY LICENSING BOARD; BY ADDING SECTION 6-46(1), INTENT; AMENDING SECTION 6-47(a), MEMBERS; AMENDING SECTION 6-50(d)(3), NOTICES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE LAKE COUNTY CODE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.



Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, appeared before the Board stating that, on January 21, 1997, staff requested permission to advertise the changes being requested and that, at that time, a change was made in the membership, to go from seven (7) members to nine (9), to include two consumer individuals who are not a part of the industry. She stated that said change was made and that staff was back this date to obtain approval of the changes.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Ms. Jean Kaminski, Executive Director, Home Builders Association of Lake County, appeared before the Board and questioned whether the two members-at-large (consumer members), being added to the Board of Building Examiners, were directly related to the requirements of Chapter 489 of the Florida Statutes, or whether it was a local requirement.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the changes required by Chapter 489 of the Florida Statutes were to add an architect, a business person, an engineer, and a contractor. He stated that the additional two members were added by the Board.

Ms. Kaminski stated that her only concern about the matter was having people serve on the Board of Building Examiners who do not have any knowledge of the Code or the industry.

Commr. Swartz stated that the two positions were added, because the Board felt it would probably strengthen that Board and its decisions, by having lay people as members of it.

There being no further individuals who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance No. 1997-19, amending Chapter 6, Article III, Board of Building Examiners, Sections 6-47 and 6-50, as read on its first and final reading, by title only.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

No one present wished to address the Board.



RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

At 9:50 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess for 10 minutes.

PUBLIC HEARING

CLERK/LAWS AND LEGISLATION/ORDINANCES

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, placed the proposed ordinance on the floor for its first and final reading, by title only, as follows:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 9, SECTION 9-2 OF THE LAKE COUNTY CODE AMENDING FILING FEES TO SUPPORT THE LAW LIBRARY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE LAKE COUNTY CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.



The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Judge Mark Hill, Circuit Court Judge, appeared before the Board to address any questions or concerns there might be regarding the proposed ordinance. He noted that said fees would be sufficient to operate the Law Library.

There being no further individuals who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance No. 1997-20, amending the filing fees, to support the Law Library, as read on its first and final reading, by title only.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

COUNTY MANAGER'S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS

MUNICIPALITIES/PUBLIC WORKS/STATE AGENCIES

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, appeared before the Board and explained this request, stating that, at the Board's direction, during February, 1997, staff was asked to bring the Lake Gertrude Basin Study to the Board, for discussion, to see which direction to go regarding same. He stated that said project has not been budgeted this year, due to the fact that staff had intended to include it in the 1997-98 budget. He stated that the funds ($48,000.00) identified for said project would come out of the Professional Services line item for Public Works, earmarked for Transportation Studies in east and south Lake County.

Mr. Stivender stated that the study for Lake Gertrude is an amendment to the Master Stormwater Plan for the Dora Basin, which he noted is approximately 95% complete. He stated that the plan was approved by the Board in September of 1995, in joint participation with the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). He stated that staff would bring the study to the Board at the next quarterly workshop, scheduled for May of this year. He noted that the report is a very detailed one, costing $161,000.00. Mr. Stivender discussed what is involved with the Lake Dora Basin Study, noting that it involves a lot of data collection and field investigations, with the County's participation being $70,000.00 and the SJRWMD being $50,000.00. He stated that, with the Lake Gertrude Basin Study, there is a great deal of historical data and computer runs that need to be done, to develop the lake levels and rain fluctuations, which are not in the original Lake Dora Basin Study. He stated that more historical data needs to be collected than in the original study.

Commr. Hanson questioned why this project was not budgeted earlier, or why it did not at least come before the Board for discussion.

Commr. Cadwell interjected that he felt it was due to the fact that staff had to identify some revenue sources. He stated that he did not know where the County's motivation has been on the sub-basin studies, with water quality or flooding, however, assumed it was flooding that prompted the County to move forward in some of the other areas.

Mr. Don Griffey, Director of Engineering, Public Works, appeared before the Board stating that, with regard to the Lake Gertrude Basin Study, there was equal concern over water quality and flooding.

Commr. Hanson stated that, if the County did not have the funding, it should not have moved forward with the project and allowed the residents to think it was going to do it. She stated that now the project is going to be two years away, if not three. Considerable discussion occurred regarding problems associated with the study, the budget regarding same, and improvements that are planned to alleviate some of the problems associated with Lake Gertrude.

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that staff is working on adding all the studies to the Five Year Plan, so that they can be prioritized, during the budget process, and staff can start planning for them. She stated that the reason it was not included in this year's budget was because the County did not have the funding source for it.

Mr. Stivender stated that May 6, 1997, is the date that is scheduled for the Public Works Quarterly Report and noted that staff could come back at that time with a list of capital improvements, or stormwater basin study priorities - which ones staff would like to do and how they would fit into the plan, over the next five years. He stated that staff could look at those priorities and give the Board a recommendation on how they compete with each other and why staff looked at one over another.

Commr. Hanson questioned whether the Lake Dora Basin Study could be completed without the Lake Gertrude Basin Study.

Mr. Stivender stated that the Lake Dora Basin Study, as of this date, stands on its own. He stated that the Lake Gertrude Basin Study is a much more detailed study.

Commr. Hanson questioned whether staff had checked with the Water Authority, to see if they had an interest in helping fund the studies.

Mr. Stivender stated that he had not, however, noted that the County has been utilizing some of their funds for the FEMA remapping and has been working with them on certain basins and areas that may be flood prone that need to be better identified.

The Chairman opened the meeting to public comment.

Mr. Rod Stroupe, Public Services Director, City of Mt. Dora, appeared before the Board stating that the City has been negotiating the contract in question for approximately one and a half years and that it looks like there is going to be another delay. He stated that the City has appropriated funds to the project this year; however, he does not know if funds will be appropriated for next year, which would cause the entire cost to fall on the County, if it does the study at all. He stated that the City would like for the County to move forward with the study, noting that it is going to take nine months before a plan is even put together. He stated that it is going to be even more expensive down the road, the longer the County waits.

Mr. Art Turnell, a local resident, appeared before the Board and distributed, for their perusal, a handout containing water quality comparison figures for East Crooked Lake, Lake Harris, Lake Yale, Lake Dora West, Lake Beauclair, Lake Minnehaha, and Lake Gertrude. He stated that the water quality of Lake Gertrude and East Crooked Lake are in the top 5% of the lakes monitored in the State of Florida and are among the top of the list in Lake County, however, noted that the secchi depth (measured in feet) in Lake Gertrude has declined from an average of 17.88 feet in 1994, to 13.45 feet in 1995, to 12.9 feet in 1996. He stated that much of the decline is attributed to unbridled stormwater runoff and that the City of Mt. Dora, the SJRWMD, the Conservation Council, residents near the lake, and the Public Works Department recognize the ongoing risk and have taken action, within their limits, to arrest the problem.

Mr. Turnell stated that there is a unique window of opportunity, with financial participation from other governmental bodies, to limit the damage at the best possible cost, during the evaluation of Lake Dora and that, if the County fails to act, he feels there is little doubt the other entities that have agreed to participate in the study, financially, will reassign those monies to other considerations. He stated that he hoped, for the sake of Lake Gertrude, the Board would act favorably to evaluate the cause and the correction of stormwater runoff into Lake Gertrude.

Ms. Michelle Pillow, a resident who lives on the east side of Lake Gertrude, appeared before the Board stating that studies take a long time and the water quality of the lake is going down fast. She stated that the lake is going to die, while the County waits for someone to do something. She stated that a study would be great, however, in the meantime, someone needs to do something to stop the runoff into Lake Gertrude.

Mr. Tom Youngs, a resident who lives on the north shore of Lake Gertrude, appeared before the Board stating that the culvert from Hwy. 441, which runs into the lake, is located next to his property and that the runoff from it creates a sandbar beneath his and his neighbor's dock that requires a backhoe to dig it out once or twice a year. He stated that he cannot describe how the water quality has changed over the years, since he purchased his property. He stated that Lake Gertrude is one of the most pristine lakes in the County and he feels the County should try to maintain its pristine lakes, before they get polluted.

Ms. Chris Tedesco, a resident of the south side of Lake Gertrude, appeared before the Board stating that, every time it rains, whatever is on the roads gets into the lake. She stated that she routinely picks out cigarette butts, cups, etc. that goes into the lake from the runoff. She stated that she can visibly see the pollution going into the lake.

Mr. Richard Norford, an individual who owned a home on the south side of Lake Gertrude for approximately ten years, appeared before the Board stating that he thought the issue at hand had been talked about so many times, over so many years, that it was time for action; however, it sounded like the Board had made up its mind that it was not going to do anything this date. He stated that the City of Mt. Dora put up its money and he felt it was time to get on with the study. He stated that it seems like the County goes from year to year and all they do is talk about the problem and save it for somebody else. He stated that it was time to get on with the study and stop passing the buck.

Dr. George Spencer, a doctor of medicine and a volunteer lake watcher, appeared before the Board stating that he has watched Lake Beauclair and Lake Dora for the past five years. He asked the Board to not let Lake Gertrude end up where those lakes are, as far as water quality is concerned, noting that they are probably the worst lakes in Lake County, other than Lake Apopka.

Commr. Hanson stated that she would like to see the project move forward, noting that she thought the County was moving forward with it.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he felt, at this point in time, anything that is done is going to be for the good and that he feels the County needs to move forward with the project. He stated that, if the County needs to do something, funding wise, so that they do not stop some road projects, he would suggest using the money set aside for the spillway project that the County will not be spending this year, understanding that said money has to come from somewhere and will have to be replaced.

Commr. Hanson concurred, stating that she would not like to see the dollars come from road projects that are already scheduled.

Commr. Swartz stated that he did not want to see the County spend $161,000.00 to put another study on the shelf. He stated that, unless the County starts taking what limited resources it has and does something, the County is not going to get anywhere. He stated that the County needs to prioritize where the worst problems are and do something about it. He stated that, rather than vote this day to spend another $161,000.00, he would like to see the Board, through its work with staff, get a laser point on whatever it is they want to work on and then work on it until it is done.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he felt, if the Board took action this date, they would not be throwing money away. He stated that the information contained in the Board's backup material states that the study will assess the water quality problems and the integrity and effectiveness of existing drainage structures and will determine appropriate remedial measures. He stated that it further states that it is expected that a water management permit could be obtained at completion of the study that will identify necessary capital improvements and recommend an implementation schedule, so it is not throwing money away. He stated that it is an opportunity for three government agencies to work together for a common good. He stated that, while there are other priorities, if the County spends said funds, it is still going to be for the good.

Commr. Good stated that he was very cautious about moving study money forward without implementation dollars being identified and that he was concerned about several things, with regard to this request, being (1) that the Department of Transportation (DOT) was not present to discuss their contribution to the problem; (2) that the Water Authority was not present, to discuss the issue, noting that they are key players and stake holders in the Lake Gertrude project; and (3) his major concern, that of dollars being identified. He stated that he was not sure the study was going to eliminate the problem of flooding, nor the problem of water quality. He stated that all the tests are monitoring tests, they are not remedial actions. He stated that the Lake Watch Committee is there for analysis; the residents' survey would give information about what needs to be done; a citizen's task force, who could identify what needs to be done, could be used in place of another study or contract, for further analysis. He stated that this is a study, with no analysis dollars, and that it was not a good direction for the County to take. He stated that Lake Gertrude is an important lake, but the study in itself is not going to protect the lake - rerouting the water will, but he is not sure that it will take this study to get to that place.

Discussion occurred regarding the fact that, if a vote was taken this date, it would be a 2-2 vote, which would be a negative vote and would not benefit the County in any way; therefore, it was the consensus of the Board to wait until Commr. Gerber was present, in two weeks, to vote on the matter.

Commr. Hanson suggested that staff get in touch with the Water Authority and with DOT, to see if they would be willing to be a player. She stated that it is possible that there could be some cost sharing up front.

Commr. Swartz questioned why the Board would not want to wait until May 6, 1997, for the quarterly stormwater report, noting that staff will have had a chance to look at the Lake Dora report and the Board can look at whether or not they want to revise their priorities.

Commr. Hanson stated that, if it is going to take nine months to do the study, then the County is looking at another three months on top of that, so she feels the County needs to move forward with it. She stated that a partnership has been created and she feels the County needs to take advantage of it.

A motion was made by Commr. Hanson that staff be directed to give the Board an update on this issue, in two weeks, with any input they may have from DOT and the Water Authority.

The motion failed, for lack of a second.

A motion was made by Commr. Swartz and seconded by Commr. Cadwell that the Board put on a future agenda a request from Public Works for approval to negotiate Joint Participation Agreements between Lake County and the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) and between Lake County and the City of Mt. Dora, for the purpose of obtaining a detailed study of the Lake Gertrude Basin, with Mt. Dora's cost share being 40% and the remaining 60% being split between Lake County and the SJRWMD; approval to negotiate an addendum to the existing Lake Dora Basin contract between Lake County and Ghioto and Associates, to perform the Lake Gertrude Study, with the estimated cost of the study being $161,000.00, as part of the May 6, 1997, quarterly stormwater update; that staff have the Lake Dora Basin Study available; and that staff be prepared to evaluate and make recommendations relative to the existing priorities that the County has, and whether or not the Board should consider some changes, as a result of that study and the Board's request to deal with specific areas, until the Board Meeting of May 6, 1997.

Under discussion, Commr. Cadwell questioned Mr. Stivender as to whether there was any indication from the SJRWMD that this issue was a "now or never" type situation.

Mr. Stivender stated that he had not heard that, to date. He stated that all the players involved in this matter will be invited to the May 6, 1997 Board Meeting and that staff will make sure DOT is present, noting that they have some plans along their section of roadway.

Commr. Good stated that the action being taken may not be the action that was being sought this date, but hoped that the Board would address the needs in the near future, even if not addressing what some consider the needs today.

Commr. Hanson interjected that staff has felt the need for said study for over a year and that they are working with the City of Mt. Dora, regarding the matter.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

It was noted that the issue would be brought back to the Board on May 6, 1997 for further discussion and action and that a letter would be sent from the Chairman to the City of Mt. Dora and the SJRWMD indicating that the County has not eliminated its desire to help with this issue, but want to wait until May 6, 1997 to do so.

RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

At 11:25 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess for five minutes.

WORKSHOP

PUBLIC HEARING

LAWS AND LEGISLATION/ORDINANCES

Commr. Good informed those present that this workshop meeting was for the purpose of discussing and obtaining input from the public regarding a draft ordinance to amend Chapter 14, Section

14-2 of the Lake County Code, with regard to the discharging of firearms within Lake County, which provides for the specific definitions of "firearm", "shooting range", "shotgun", "shotshell", and "occupied structure". Prohibited activity is stated as no person shall discharge a firearm within the unincorporated areas designated as urban, urban expansion, suburban, rural village, urban compact node, ridge, transitional and employment center, within 150 yards of any structure, without the consent of occupant or owner; no person shall discharge any firearm upon, from, or across any county maintained or owned road, right-of-way, or easement; and provides for exceptions for a person lawfully defending life or property, or performing official duties; or within licensed and approved ranges, gun clubs and official hunting areas. The prohibited activity is not applicable to shotshell on land zoned agricultural, a minimum of 5 acres, and 150 ft. of a structure. The draft ordinance provides for enforcement by the Lake County Sheriff's Department and all other law enforcement agencies within Lake County.

Mr. Bruce Duncan, Assistant County Attorney, appeared before the Board stating that some concerns had been expressed to the County Attorney's Office, through the Board of County Commissioners, about the discharging of firearms in urbanized areas of the County and that, as a result of those concerns, he had conducted a survey with some of the local counties and discovered that approximately half of them have ordinances which regulate the discharge of firearms in urbanized areas. He stated that Chapter 790.15, of the Florida Statutes, deals with the discharging of firearms, specifically with public parks, public highways, streets, etc., however, does not deal with urbanized areas. He stated that the Statute has been fairly difficult for the State Attorney and the Sheriff's Department to implement and, as a result of that, the County Attorney's Office decided to draft an ordinance, as to the legality of the County regulating the discharge of firearms. He noted that there has been some concern expressed over the fact that there is a State Statute that says the regulation of firearms and ammunition is prohibited in the State, which he read into the record. He then made some clarification, with regard to the penalty portion of the proposed ordinance and the definition of an authorized hunting area.

Mr. Duncan stated that staff initially started out with an ordinance that prohibited the discharge of firearms anywhere in the unincorporated areas of the County, within 300 yards of a structure; however, in discussing the matter with several gun enthusiasts in the County, decided that perhaps they should limit it to the urbanized areas of the County and reduce the yardage from 300 to 150 yards. He stated that staff limited the effect of the proposed ordinance to urban, urban expansion, suburban, rural village, urban compact node, ridge, transitional, and employment centers, which are zoning districts that have densities of one dwelling unit per acre or greater, noting that the proposed ordinance would not apply to anything that is less than one unit per acre. He discussed the definition of a shooting range, noting that, in reviewing the National Rifle Association's Manual for Shooting Ranges and discussing the matter with Mr. Baker, at Peterson's Gun Shop, he feels it is acceptable. He stated that that covered all the concerns staff was faced with, during the drafting of the proposed ordinance.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether shooting ranges were allowed in any zoning districts in the County, at the present time.

Mr. Duncan stated that there are zoning regulations for shooting ranges, noting that one would have to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), or something along those lines, that would specifically allow a shooting range. He stated that he had spoken with Lt. Chris Daniels, Lake County Sheriff's Office, and that Lt. Daniels expressed a concern about the language contained in Subsection D, under Section 1, which states, "It shall be the duty and responsibility of the Lake County Sheriff's Department and all other law enforcement agencies..." He stated that Lt. Daniels and the Sheriff feel that said language is a little inappropriate and should state, "The Sheriff's Department is authorized to enforce the provisions of this ordinance, within the unincorporated areas of Lake County."

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether "occupied structure" would include an agricultural barn.

Mr. Duncan stated that it would not, noting that "occupied" means a residence. He stated that the proposed ordinance contains a specific exemption for agricultural property over five acres.

Mr. Minkoff, County Attorney, read into the record the uses contained in the Code, with regard to same.

Commr. Hanson questioned whether a shooting range could be exempted and still be in a suburban land use.

Mr. Duncan stated that he felt the specific exemption would override the suburban land use category.

Commr. Hanson stated that she felt the word "occupied" should be inserted before the word "structure", in the last sentence, on Page 3 of the proposed ordinance.

Mr. Duncan pointed out the fact that a period should be inserted after the word "acres", on Page 3, Line 22, of the proposed ordinance, and that the remainder of the sentence should be deleted.

The Chairman opened the workshop to public comment.

Lt. Chris Daniels, Lake County Sheriff's Department, appeared before the Board, on behalf of Sheriff George Knupp, who could not be present, due to another commitment. He stated that the problem the Sheriff's Office is faced with is urban in nature, noting that there are a lot of urban areas in the County that are as dense as any residential area. He stated that the Sheriff's Office responded to over 100 complaints, during the months of January and February and the first four days of March, of shooting in the unincorporated areas of Lake County, so it is a significant drain on manpower in the Sheriff's Office, particularly, when the best they can offer is to go out and identify the person who is doing the shooting and suggest that they select a better area, or a more appropriate time or place to shoot.

Lt. Daniels stated that the biggest problem the Sheriff's Office is faced with is the intoxicated individual who stands in his back yard and fires rounds into the air, not the hunter, or farmer, who is dove hunting in his 20 acre pasture. He stated that any ordinance the County can provide, as a tool to restrict the discharge of firearms in residential areas that just happen to be in the unincorporated areas of the County, would be beneficial.

Mr. Hersh Volat, a resident of unincorporated Lady Lake, appeared before the Board stating that he was a responsible gun owner, who lives in an area that is zoned urban expansion. He stated that he was glad to see the proposed ordinance was exempting shotguns, however, was concerned about the use of high powered weapons. He stated that he did not feel they should be exempted, under any circumstances, at which time he discussed an incident that occurred involving one of his neighbors who was bailing hay and had a bullet whiz by his head from some men who were shooting nearby. He stated that there are public and private ranges available for people to utilize for target practice. He urged the Board to approve the proposed ordinance and see that it is enforced.

Mr. Roy Hunter, a resident of Paisley, appeared before the Board and distributed a handout containing a packet of information titled "Refuse to Be a Victim", A Personal Safety Program from the Women of the National Rifle Association; a packet of information titled "Promote gun safety with me", from the Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program; and a copy of a letter from Mr. Robert Dowlut, Deputy General Counsel, National Rifle Association of America, to Commr. Hanson, regarding the proposed ordinance, which he read into the record. He stated that it all boils down to one thing - education. He stated that he felt the Board should work with the Board of Education to educate people about firearms, rather than pass another ordinance and put more of a burden on the Sheriff, for laws that are already on the books.

Mr. Louis Muse, a resident of unincorporated Lady Lake, appeared before the Board stating that he did not feel education was the answer. He stated that there is no time for education, the County needs to act now. He stated that the proposed ordinance needs to be on the books. He noted that he was the neighbor Mr. Volat had alluded to earlier that had a bullet whiz by his head while bailing hay, at which time he read a letter into the record that his attorney had written to the property owner that had allowed the men that fired at him to utilize his property for a shooting range, suggesting that he control the utilization of his property for same, however, the letter had no effect on the property owner.

Mr. Keith Horner, a resident of Lake County, appeared before the Board stating that the proposed ordinance needs to be effective and one that can be cited, noting that, if there is reckless shooting, the individuals doing so should be cited. He stated that, if they do not know where their bullets are going to hit, then they should not be shooting.

Ms. Ruth Rowley, a resident of Lady Lake, appeared before the Board and read a statement into the record, with regard to the proposed ordinance. She stated that she is a responsible gun owner and does not believe in gun control for other responsible gun owners, however, does believe that sensible restrictions are needed to protect the safety, health, and welfare of everyone. She stated that, in reading the proposed ordinance, she found that the issue of noise from gun fire is not addressed and that she feels the 150 yard distance stipulation is grossly inadequate. She discussed the fact that a neighbor of hers allows people to use his clay pit as a shooting range, at which time she submitted, for the record, a picture that she had taken of a sign that he had placed on the side of the road, which reads "Hunter Ed", with an arrow pointing in the direction of his property. She stated that she does not believe it is fair to be treated as second class citizens, just because one lives in an area designated as "rural", noting that they have the same concerns for their safety, health, and welfare as those people living in residential areas. She also submitted, for the record, a letter from her neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Ewerks, to the Board, indicating their sentiments about the proposed ordinance, as well.

Ms. Sherie Wolkens, a resident of Clermont, appeared before the Board and discussed an incident that occurred in her neighborhood where a man was discharging a firearm, while she, her husband, and her daughter were outside. She stated that she called the Sheriff's Department and was informed that there was nothing they could do, due to the fact that she lived in the unincorporated area of Lake County and there was no law regulating the discharging of firearms. She submitted, for the record, a petition containing a large number of names of residents and registered voters in Lake County requesting the Board to adopt the proposed ordinance. She stated that everybody has the right to protection, no matter where they live, or who it is.

Ms. Rachel Smith, a resident of Fruitland Park, appeared before the Board stating that she was quite concerned about the proposed ordinance, noting that she felt it would not do any good, if the County was going to put a limitation on the shooting distance. She stated that she reviewed the State Statutes and felt they covered everything that was addressed, including the penalties, and that she agreed with the gentleman who had appeared earlier and stated that he felt education was the answer. She stated that she felt the Sheriff's Department needed to be given more "bone" - something to go on. She stated that what is contained in the proposed ordinance is not what the County needs, however, feels it is a start.

Mr. John Opicka, a resident of north Lake County, appeared before the Board stating that he was a hunter and responsible gun owner and that he was very concerned about the issue of gun control, gun legislation, etc. He stated that he felt the 150 yard limitation was an ineffective distance, noting that he had constructed a clay pit, to be used for discharging his firearms; however, it is located less than 150 yards from his neighbor's home and, if his neighbor decides to sell his home to an individual who is opposed to firearms, he will not be able to discharge his firearms. He stated that the issue is not distance, it is gun safety and whether people who own guns are responsible enough to discharge them. He stated that he is not in favor of the proposed ordinance and does not feel the Board should approve it.

Mr. Michael Craig, a resident of Fruitland Park, appeared before the Board and questioned how the County would determine whether or not a clay pit was going to be used as a shooting range, noting that there is nothing in the proposed ordinance that covers it. He stated that he would like to have "shooting range" defined in the proposed ordinance.

Mr. Lou Mattiucci, a resident of Eustis, appeared before the Board stating that he did not feel another law was the answer, that it was responsibility of the gun owner and common sense.

Commr. Good informed those present that this was the first workshop regarding the proposed ordinance and that there would be additional public hearings, for comments regarding same.

Commr. Hanson stated that it seemed to her the issues addressed this date were (1) gun range regulations, which she noted the County should have, if it does not already have them; (2) noise from gun fire, which she noted should be covered by the Noise Ordinance; (3) reckless shooting, a major concern, which is already on the books; and (4) night shooting. She stated that she was concerned about the urbanized areas and noted that, when the County adopted the Vegetation Abatement Ordinance, it was limited to the urbanized areas and that is probably what is driving this ordinance - the urbanized areas.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he knows the County needs to do something, but is not convinced that this ordinance is what it needs, or that it will answer the majority of the things that were addressed.

Commr. Swartz stated that this was a difficult issue to bring forward and commended Commr. Good for doing so. He commended those individuals who attended the meeting and spoke, as well, noting that all the comments heard this date were good. He stated that he was pleased to be able to have this kind of discussion civilly and with an underlying desire by everybody, even if they might take a different view of the proposed ordinance, to have the discharge of weapons done responsibly and find a way to ensure that it is. He stated that it is a very real problem and he is not sure how the County is going to get around it. He stated that he agreed that the Board needs to continue to work to make it easier for the Sheriff, in those instances where State law is not giving them the tools they need.

Commr. Swartz suggested that the Board try to put together a small working group that will take the information that came out at this meeting and try to fashion something that will address legitimate concerns that State law does not seem to address and take the first step that will protect the citizens of the County from those irresponsible discharges of firearms.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he felt Commr. Swartz's suggestion was a good idea and that he would support it. He stated that, in those instances where someone is running a firing range, the County may already have some codes that would address it as a land use issue, rather than a firing issue, and that maybe the County needs to be a little more aggressive with it.

Commr. Good stated that, in his mind, this is a health, safety, and welfare concern and that is what the Board is charged to protect, which is why he took the time to bring the issue forward.

Commr. Swartz suggested that Commr. Good head a committee of five individuals, who can bring a recommendation back to the Board, within 60 days, that will address the issues of both sides.

A motion was made by Commr. Swartz and seconded by Commr. Cadwell that Commr. Good put together a committee, comprised of five individuals, with him heading said committee, to address concerns of both sides of the issue of the discharging of firearms within Lake County, and bring a recommendation back to the Board, within 60 days, regarding same.

Under discussion, Mr. Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the Committee will fall under the Sunshine Law, therefore, noted that it should be put in Resolution form.

Commr. Swartz stated that Commr. Good could be identifying the people that he would like to put on said committee and bring those recommendations back to the Board at the next Board Meeting, along with the Resolution. He stated that the intent is not to drag the issue out.

Commr. Good stated, for informational purposes, that he had written a memorandum requesting the Board to readdress the Noise Ordinance, particularly its enforceability. He stated that he had sent a copy of said memorandum to Mr. Tommy Leathers, Director of Code Enforcement, requesting input regarding same. He noted that it may dovetail some of the work that is being done, with regard to the proposed firearms ordinance.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES/OUTDOOR RECREATION

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board reappointed the following individuals to vacancies on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, with terms to expire March 2, 1999:

Mr. Lloyd Hlavac

Mr. Fred Michels

Ms. Judy Smathers

Ms. Lori Webb-Paris



Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.



OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES/OUTDOOR RECREATION

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board appointed the following individuals to vacancies on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, with terms to expire March 2, 1999, with the exception of Mr. Lippert, whose term will expire March 2, 1998:

Mr. John McCowan

Ms. Rachael C. Augspurg

Ms. Laura Hargrove

Ms. Barbara A. Milazzo

Mr. Paul Lippert (to fill unexpired term of Mr. Elbert "Steve" Stevenson)



Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.





OTHER BUSINESS



APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board reappointed Mr. Glenn Tyre and Mr. John F. "Jack" Nelson and appointed Ms. Margo Odom, replacing Mr. Edd Holder, who declined consideration for reappointment, to the Industrial Development Authority, for two year terms, expiring March 10, 1999.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

COUNTY ATTORNEY/SUITS AFFECTING THE COUNTY

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained this request, stating that a settlement of $500.00 was reached in the lawsuit of Creticos vs. Lake County, therefore, staff was recommending approval.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for acceptance of the Settlement of Litigation, with regard to the lawsuit of Creticos vs. Lake County.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

Mr. Minkoff noted, for the record, that the transcripts that were being held by the Clerk's Office, with regard to the case, could now be made public.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/COMMITTEES

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board, for informational purposes, that the Steering Committee had held its first meeting, with regard to the visioning process, and that it was a very positive meeting. She stated that there had been some discussion about the County entering into a contract with the University of Central Florida Institute of Government, which she noted will offer the assistance that the Steering Committee will need in facilitating their meetings and planning the visioning process and making sure that it goes the way the Committee would like for it to go. She stated that, originally, the contract was in the neighborhood of $55,000.00, however, through negotiation and changing the Scope of Service, that figure has been changed to $28,000.00. She stated that the County will pay approximately

$10-15,000.00 of said amount and the remainder will come from the private sector, other government agencies, etc. She stated that she needed to sign the contract and guarantee the $28,000.00, therefore, requested the Board's permission to do so.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved a request by the County Manager for approval of a contract between Lake County and the University of Central Florida Institute of Government, in the amount of $28,000.00, for the purpose of obtaining their assistance in facilitating Steering Committee meetings and planning the visioning process and making sure that it goes the way the Committee would like for it to go, with the County paying approximately $10-15,000.00 of said amount, and the remainder coming from the private sector, other government agencies, etc.

Commr. Gerber was not present at this meeting.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER

COMMISSIONERS/MEETINGS

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board, for informational purposes, that their next Advance Meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 1997, at 9:00 a.m., at River Trace (forestry campground), on Route 42, in Astor.



REPORTS

COMMISSIONER CADWELL

LAWS AND LEGISLATION/MEETINGS

Commr. Cadwell informed the Board, for informational purposes, that he had planned to put together and distribute a packet of information from the National League of Cities, regarding the Legislative Conference, however, did not have time to do so. He noted that the Board members would be receiving the packet within the next day or so.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER GOOD

LAWS AND LEGISLATION/MISCELLANEOUS

Commr. Good informed the Board, for informational purposes, that C-Span had been carrying the NACO legislative activities and that Vice President Al Gore and the Secretary of Agriculture, Mr. Daniel Glickman, were on the program recently addressing the concerns of counties. He suggested that the Commissioners try to catch some of the telecasts, if possible.

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 1:25 p.m.



_______________________________

WILLIAM "BILL" H. GOOD, CHAIRMAN



ATTEST:







_________________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK



sec/3-4-97/3-12-97/boardmin