A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

JUNE 16, 1998

            The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 16, 1998, 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: G. Richard Swartz, Jr., Chairman; Welton G. Cadwell, Vice Chairman; William "Bill" H. Good; Rhonda H. Gerber; and Catherine C. Hanson. Others present were: Sue Whittle, County Manager; Sanford (Sandy) A. Minkoff, County Attorney; Ava Kronz, Director of Continuous Quality Improvement; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

            Pastor Ray Kirkland, Bay Lake Baptist Church, Groveland, gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

            AGENDA UPDATE

            Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that there was an Addendum to the Agenda, which had been properly advertised. She requested that Tab 24, a request from Facilities and Capital Improvements for consideration of the Sheriff’s request to rent the property adjacent to the Eustis Vehicle Maintenance Facility, in the amount of $6,000.00 per year, subject to the Phase I Environmental Assessment Report, be pulled from the Agenda, to be rescheduled at a later date.

            MINUTES

            On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of May 5, 1998 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of May 19, 1998 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of May 26, 1998 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

            CLERK OF COURT’S CONSENT AGENDA

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

            Budgets/Budget Transfers/County Finance

            Request for approval of Budget Adjustments for FY 97/98, as follows:

            A.        Transfers:

 

            1.         Fund:                          General

                        Department:                Constitutional Officer/Sheriff

                        From:                          Contingency - Sheriff                                     $ 10,000

                        To:                              Transfer/Law Capital                                     $ 10,000

                        Transfer #:                  98-231

 

                        Justification:   The Sheriff is requesting $10,000 from Contingency - Sheriff be transferred to Law Capital account pursuant to F.S. 30.49.

 

            2.         Fund:                          County Transportation Trust

                        Department:                Public Works

                        From:                          Contingency                                                   $182,002

                        To:                              Machinery and Equipment                             $182,002

                        Transfer #:                  98-232

 

                        Justification:   Additional funds are needed due to the bid quotes being more than the original estimates developed during the budget process on several pieces of equipment.

 

            3.         Fund:                          Property and Casualty Insurance

                        Department:                Human Resources

                        From:                          Special Reserve                                              $200,000

                        To:                              Claims Payments                                            $200,000

                        Transfer #:                  98-233

 

                        Justification:   The County is defending an unusually large number of uninsurable lawsuits that are so convoluted that coverage cannot be determined at this time. Special Reserve was established to be used in these situations.

 

            Bonds - Contractor

 

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

 

            New

 

            1301-98          Laurier Poirer (Electrical)

            5618-98          Danny Cannon d/b/a Cannon Marine Construction

            5619-98          Charles Gabriel d/b/a Gabriel Plumbing

            5620-98          Lee D. Browne d/b/a Rutland Roofing, Inc.

            5621-99          Art’s Electrical Service and Contracting

            5622-99          Farrells Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc.

            5623-98          Joseph M. Greene of Greene’s Electrical Service

            5624-98          Michael Mowery G.C., Inc. (General Contractor)

            5625-99          Judd’s Masonry

 

            Accounts Allowed/County Property

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of list of items to be deleted from Fixed Assets, for the month of May, 1998, in the amount of $22,658.32.

 

            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.

 

            Budgets

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Country Club of Mt. Dora Community Development District Proposed Budget for FY 1998/99, in accordance with Chapter 190.008(2)(b), Florida Statutes, for purposes of disclosure and information only.

 

            Reports/State Agencies/Water Authority

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Lake County Water Authority’s Special District Public Facilities Report for the Oklawaha Basin Recreation and Water Conservation and Control Authority, as required by Florida Statute 189.415, to increase cooperation between special districts and local general-purpose governments in development of local comprehensive plans.

 

            Municipalities/Ordinances

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Annexation Ordinances from the City of Tavares, as follows:

 

            Ordinance No. 98-07, amending the boundaries of the City of Tavares, by annexing approximately 284 acres located east of SR 19 and west of Eichelberger Road, subject to the rules, regulations, and obligations ordained by the City of Tavares Council; rezoning the property from County PUD (Planned Unit Development) to City PUD and RSF-A; providing certain PUD conditions; providing an effective date. Passed and ordained by the City Council of the City of Tavares, Florida, the 6th day of May, 1998.

 

            Ordinance No. 98-08, amending the boundaries of the City of Tavares, by annexing approximately 2 acres located east of SR 19 and west of Eichelberger Road, subject to the rules, regulations, and obligations ordained by the City of Tavares Council; rezoning the property from County A (Agriculture) to City RSF-A; providing an effective date. Passed and ordained by the City Council of the City of Tavares, Florida, the 6th day of May, 1998.

 

            Ordinance No. 98-09, amending the boundaries of the City of Tavares, by annexing approximately 2 acres located south of SR 19 and east of Eichelberger Road, subject to the rules, regulations, and obligations ordained by the City of Tavares Council; rezoning the property from County A (Agriculture) to City PFD; providing certain PFD conditions; providing an effective date. Passed and ordained by the City Council of the City of Tavares, Florida, the 6th day of May, 1998.

 

            Ordinance No. 98-10, amending the boundaries of the City of Tavares, by annexing and rezoning approximately 8.0 acres located north of Dailey Drive and east of SR 19, from Lake County A (Agriculture) to City PID; subject to the rules, regulations, and obligations ordained by the City of Tavares Council; providing an effective date. Passed and ordained by the City Council of the City of Tavares, Florida, the 15th day of April, 1998.

 

            COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

            Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, requested that Tab 3, a request from Economic Development for approval and execution of First Amendment to Real Estate Purchase and Sales Agreement between Lake County and Ackerbloom (Maritec), be pulled from the Consent Agenda, for discussion. She further requested that Tab 15, a request from Purchasing for approval of a request from the Department of Solid Waste, authorizing the sole source procurement of a truck tire derimmer from Tire Resources System, Inc., in the amount of $30,054.00, be pulled from the Agenda, to be rescheduled for the June 23, 1998 Board Meeting; and that Tab 19, a request from Solid Waste for approval for the Chairman to execute all necessary documents to authorize the Assignment of the Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Service Contract between Lake County and South Lake Refuse Service, Inc., to transfer more than a twenty (20%) percent share to Superior Services, Inc., be pulled from the Agenda, as well.

            Commr. Gerber requested that Tab 5, a request from Public Works for approval of an impact fee credit for Building Permit No. 98040745, in the amount of $4,548.00, to offset traffic impact fees, due to the voluntary dedication of additional right-of-way by the Clermont First Church of the Nazarene, be pulled from the Consent Agenda, for discussion.

            Ms. Valerie Fuchs, Assistant County Attorney, informed the Board that Tab 17, a request from Solid Waste for approval and execution of Solid Waste Recycling and Education Grant Application, Part One; approval and execution of Recycling and Education Grant Application, Part Two; approval and execution of quarterly reimbursement requests; authorization to encumber and expend funds during FY 1998/99; and approval and execution of interlocal agreements with fourteen municipalities, for application and use of grant funds, contained some typographical errors. This request was pulled from the Consent Agenda, for discussion.

            On a motion by Commr. Good, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:

            Accounts Allowed/Facilities and Capital Improvements/Public Works

 

            Request from Facilities and Capital Improvements for approval and execution of Change Order to Doug Ross Construction, for increase in scope of services, for addition/renovation of Public Works Building, in the amount of $52,088.00.

 

            Accounts Allowed/Public Works/Rights-of-Way, Roads and Easements/Road Projects

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of check for $1.00, for purchase of rights-of-way from Dr. and Mrs. William Leach, for Laws Road (2-0528) Paving Project.

 

            Accounts Allowed/Bonds/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Public Works/Resolutions

            Roads-County and State/Subdivisions

 

            Request from Public Works for acceptance of final plat for Clear Creek, Phase 1, Subdivision; acceptance of maintenance bond, in the amount of $23,797.40; approval and execution of Developer’s Agreement, for maintenance of improvements, between Lake County and Dr. R. Horton, Inc.; and approval and execution of Resolution No. 1998-87, accepting following roads into County Road Maintenance System:

 

            Woodcrest Way “Part” (2-0163)

            Silver Creek Court “Part” (2-0165A)

            Winding Water Way “Part” (2-0165B)

            Clear Creek Circle “Part” (2-0166)

 

            Public Works/Subdivisions

 

            Request from Public Works for acceptance of final plat for The Woods of Sugarloaf Subdivision, consisting of six lots - Commissioner District 2.

 

            Public Works/Subdivisions

 

            Request from Public Works for acceptance of final plat of Hilly Acres Subdivision, consisting of three lots - Commissioner District 2.

 

            County Property/Municipalities/Public Works/Rights-of-Way, Roads and Easements

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of utility easement across county property, on CR 44B, between Lake County and City of Eustis.

 

            Deeds/Public Works/Rights-of-Way, Roads and Easements

 

            Request from Public Works for acceptance of the following:

 

            Drainage Easement

 

            Sutton, William Richard and Sarah

            Pine Island Drive (5-6043A)

 

            Statutory Warranty Deed

 

            Goebel, Seaborn Earl and Fannie Sue

            Apshawa Road (2-2053)

 

            Gant, James E. and Susan

            Lake Emma Road (2-2119)

 

            List, Ralph and Ella

            Lake Mack Drive (4-8698)

 

            Temporary Non-Exclusive Deed

 

            Hanson, Thomas C., Jr.

            Griffin View Drive (1-7212)

 

            Drainage Easement

 

            Caswell, Harold and Carol

            Pine Island Drive (5-6043A)

 

            Non-Exclusive Easement Deed

 

            Hayden, John Stewart and Kelly Lynn

            Lakeview Drive (2-3221A)

 

            Hargrove, Maxye and Sherrie

            Robbins Road

 

            Statutory Conservation Easement Deed

 

            Suggs, Ralph D. and Camilla J.

 

            Statutory Quitclaim Deed

 

            Lott, Frank and Debra S.

            Watson, George Jr. and Rosemarie

            Laws Road (2-0528)

 

            Statutory Warranty Deed

 

            Witherill, Sherry F. and Wayne W.

            Chatham Road (2-1401)

 

            O’Brien, Lola M. and John Paul

            Wyatt, Theodore V. and Patricia A.

            Laws Road (2-0528)

 

            Wyatt, Theodore V. and Patricia A.

            Laws Road (2-0528)

 

            Horton, Dennis L.

            Laws Road (2-0528)

 

            Caine, Theodore E. and Meyer, Linda A.

            Laws Road (2-0528)

 

            Meyrick, Gordon and Beulah

            Thomas Boat Landing Road (5-7940)

            Em-En-El Grove Road (5-8037)

 

            Carter, Douglas A. and Stephanie

            Wekiva River Road (4-4298)

 

            Public Works/Road Vacations

 

            Request from Public Works for approval to advertise Vacation Petition No. 867, by Darrell Chaney, to vacate right-of-way (Second Street), Plat of Okahumpka, Section 15, Township 20S, Range 24E, Okahumpka area - Commissioner District 2.

 

            Public Works/Road Vacations

 

            Request from Public Works for approval to advertise Vacation Petition No. 868, by Joanna Fox, to vacate Utility Easement, Squirrel Point Subdivision, Section 3, Township 20, Range 26, Deer Island area - Commissioner District 3.

 

            Public Works/Road Vacations

 

            Request from Public Works for approval to advertise Vacation Petition No. 869, by A. C. Janney, President, Association of Christian Ministries, Inc., to vacate right-of-way, Section 18, Township 21S, Range 24E, Tuscanooga area - Commissioner District 2.

 

            Bonds/Clerk/Property Appraiser/Tax Collector/Sheriff/Supervisor of Elections

 

            Request from Risk Management for approval of bonds of County Officers, in accordance with Florida Statute 137.05.

 

            Accounts Allowed/Grants/Solid Waste

 

            Request from Solid Waste for approval and execution of Waste Tire Grant Application request, in the amount of $106,732.00; and execution of the subsequent application and any and all reimbursement requests, as needed, throughout FY 1998/99.

 

            Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Grants/Solid Waste

 

            Request from Solid Waste for approval and execution of Litter Control & Prevention Grant Application for 1998/99 and execution of reimbursement requests, as needed; and approval and execution of the 1998/99 Interlocal Agreement between Lake County and Keep Lake County Beautiful, Inc., providing for funding, in the amount of $19,165.00.

 

            Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Tourist Development

 

            Request from Tourist Development for approval and execution of Location Agreement between Lake County and Eyecatcher Display Systems, for the purpose of displaying advertising.

 

            ADDENDUM NO. 1

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES

            RESOLUTIONS

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 1998-88, honoring Pastor Ray Kirkland, for completing forty years of service as Pastor of the Bay Lake Baptist Church, at which time said Resolution was read into the record and presented to Pastor Kirkland.

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES

            ASSESSMENTS/FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

            The Chairman noted that a presentation scheduled for this date, regarding the Fire Rescue Services Special Assessment Program, by Camille S. Gianatasio, Government Service Group, had been postponed until the Board Meeting of June 30, 1998.

            CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

             Mr. Leonard Hokaszewski, a resident of Pine Lakes, addressed the Board regarding the issue of a fire that had recently occurred in Pine Lakes, where two homes were destroyed, due to what some of the residents feel was the condition of the roads in that area, and what the Board intended to do regarding same. It was noted that the issue of the roads would be addressed later this date.

            CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

            Ms. Valerie Fuchs, Assistant County Attorney, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that, in the original sales agreement between the County and Ackerbloom (Maritec), there is a provision that provides that the County will grant an easement, for boat ramp purposes, at Church Lake; however, on the original plat, said area was designated as a conservation area. She stated that, after this fact was brought to the attention of the County Attorney’s Office, they reviewed the issue and feel confident that, although it was designated as a conservation area, there are no documents recorded making it as such. She stated that the property designated as a conservation area belongs to the County and there are provisions that allow the County to use a conservation area for such purposes as a boat ramp. She stated that it has been determined that it would be legally sound for the County to grant said easement.

            The Chairman noted that Maritec will still have to enter into an easement agreement with the County, for the use of the Church Lake property.

            Ms. Fuchs stated that said document has been drafted, with conditions noted, and will be presented to the Board at a later date.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 4-1 vote, the Board approved a request from Economic Development for approval and execution of First Amendment to Real Estate Purchase and Sales Agreement between Lake County and Ackerbloom (Maritec).

            Commr. Gerber voted “No”.

            ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/BUILDING DEPARTMENT/PUBLIC WORKS

            RIGHTS-OF-WAY, ROADS AND EASEMENTS

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board, in response to a question by Commr. Gerber as to where the County is getting the money to purchase rights-of-way in the County. He stated that they are purchased with impact fee monies, noting that, at a previous meeting, discussion occurred regarding the issue of using said funds for such situations.

            On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval of an impact fee credit for Building Permit No. 98040745, in the amount of $4,548.00, to off-set traffic impact fees, due to the voluntary dedication of additional right-of-way by the Clermont First Church of the Nazarene. It was noted that credit shall be granted at the time of recording the dedication of the right-of-way.

            CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/GRANTS/EDUCATION

            MUNICIPALITIES/PUBLIC WORKS/STATE AGENCIES

            Ms. Valerie Fuchs, Assistant County Attorney, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that there were two sections of the interlocal agreement regarding the Solid Waste Recycling and Education Grant that required some minor changes, being:

            On Page 6, under Section 4 (a) (5), the language at the expiration of said agreement should be added to the last sentence of Paragraph 5; and on Page 8, under Section 7 (a), it should be noted that any correspondence sent to the City of Leesburg, regarding their interlocal agreement, should be sent to the attention of the City Manager.

            On a motion by Commr. Good, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Solid Waste for approval and execution of the Solid Waste Recycling and Education Grant Application, Part One; approval and execution of the Solid Waste Recycling and Education Grant Application, Part Two, upon receipt from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection; approval and execution of quarterly reimbursement requests; authorization to encumber and expend funds during FY 1998/99; and approval and execution of interlocal agreements with fourteen municipalities, for application and use of grant funds.

            ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/BONDS/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

            CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/RESOLUTIONS

            Mr. Bruce Duncan, Economic Development Director for Lake County, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that it involved a company (Today’s World Transportation, Inc.) proposing to locate in the Sorrento area, which will create up to 300 jobs within the next three years. He stated that the company will initially create 75 jobs, with a salary range of approximately $8.00 to $20.00 per hour. He stated that the owners of the company hope to begin construction in September of this year. He stated that the company is very unique, in that it takes old buses and refurbishes them, making them more environmentally sound, and then distributes them worldwide. He stated that there are already contracts in place with China and the Middle East, so the company has export ramifications, which will help not only Lake County, but the State and country as well. He stated that the request had been reviewed by the Industrial Development Authority, as required by Chapter 159 of the Florida Statutes, and that they had recommended approval. He stated that the County’s financial advisor, Mr. William Huff, had some minor concerns about the request, which he read into the record, however, noted that said concerns had been discussed at the IDA meeting and it was determined that they would be addressed, prior to the actual issuance of the bonds. He noted that the bonds had been reviewed and approved by the County’s bond counsel, Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson, in Tampa.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Economic Development for approval and execution of Resolution No. 1998-89, relative to the issuance of Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, in an amount not to exceed $9,000,000.00, for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, and equipping a facility for the production of remanufactured motor coaches, including related office and storage facilities, for Today’s World Transportation, Inc.; and approval and execution of the agreement between Lake County and Today’s World Transportation, Inc., with the recommendations that came through the Industrial Development Authority, as noted.

            COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS/MUNICIPALITIES

            Mr. Bruce Thorburn, Director, Communications Systems, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that, over the last three or four years, the County has attempted to renew the Comcast Cablevision franchise agreement, in full cooperation with nine of the municipalities in the County, being the Cities of Eustis, Fruitland Park, Leesburg, Mt. Dora, Tavares, and Umatilla; the Towns of Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, and Montverde; and Comcast SCH Holdings, Inc. (Lake County Cablevision). He stated that they were able to arrive at some negotiating points and, with the cooperation of the County Attorney’s Office, put together the document before the Board this date. He stated that Comcast has agreed to a five year rebuild of their system, which will increase their channel capability, and, in the event they succeed in meeting that benchmark, an extension will be granted for seven additional years. He noted that they have also agreed to maintain the high quality standards that they already provide to the people of Lake County.

            Mr. Phil Yapkowitz, General Manager, Comcast Cablevision, addressed the Board, stating that the rates being charged the residents of Lake County are fair and in line with the Cablevision industry all over the United States, but, most importantly, they are in line with the Federal rules and regulations that govern rates. He noted that Lake Sumter Community College will be receiving a $50,000.00 grant, to improve their educational access equipment. He stated that he feels the upgrading alluded to by Mr. Thorburn will be done in half the time expected, if not less. He stated that the system will be state-of-the-art, with a lot more channels and opportunities available, in the near future. He thanked the County Attorney’s Office for their cooperation in this matter, noting that, if it had not been for their cooperation, the contract before the Board this date would not be in place.

            The Board thanked Mr. Yapkowitz for the job that he has done and noted that whoever takes his place will have some big shoes to fill.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Communications Systems for approval and execution of the Cable Television Franchise Agreement between Lake County; the Cities of Eustis, Fruitland Park, Leesburg, Mt. Dora, Tavares, and Umatilla; the Towns of Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, and Montverde; and Comcast SCH Holdings, Inc. (Lake County Cablevision).

            ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/GRANTS/PUBLIC WORKS/STATE AGENCIES

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that the grant in question is in the amount of $19,568.00. He stated that the Supporting Resolution for the grant is the same as one that the County approved in the past for the Transportation Disadvantaged.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval and execution of the Planning Grant Application to the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged for FY 1998/99, in the amount of $19,568.00; and approval and execution of Supporting Resolution No. 1998-90.

            GRANTS/PUBLIC WORKS/STATE AGENCIES

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that the County is applying for a grant, to extend the County’s current bus service from Leesburg to Clermont, as a new plan. He stated that staff feels it is a good move for the future of the County.

            Mr. Stuart Buchanan, Alternative Transportation Specialist, Public Works, addressed the Board, stating that the County currently has a service route that runs east and west, along Hwy. 441, through Eustis, Leesburg, and into Lady Lake. He stated that staff would like to apply for service development funding, which will provide a north/south route that will go through Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola, and Clermont, stopping at many of the County’s larger multi-family subdivisions and retirement communities, such as Hawthorne, Royal Highlands, and Spanish Villas, and then connect to the current service route. He stated that the grant will be for two years and noted that Lifestream Behavioral Center will provide a local match for those two years, in the amount of $33,000.00.

            Mr. Stivender stated that the whole idea behind the grant is to test the ridership, over the next two years. He stated that, in the third year of the plan, the Board can look at it and decide whether they want to continue it, or shut it down.

            On a motion by Commr. Good, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval and execution of the Service Development Funding Application to the Florida Department of Transportation.

            ASSESSMENTS/MUNICIPALITIES/PUBLIC WORKS

            ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, updated the Board regarding various special assessment road projects being discussed for the Pine Lakes area, at which time he distributed and reviewed two handouts (several charts) indicating various roads in the area and what it will cost to pave them.

            Discussion occurred regarding the percentage of families that want the roads paved, versus those who do not, as well as the issue of needing the collector roads to be paved, in order to be able to access the local roads, at which time Commr. Hanson stated that it is a touchy subject and many people may not want the roads paved, but, in order for emergency vehicles to be able to travel them, they are going to have to be paved.

            Commr. Swartz suggested holding a meeting in the area, to find out where there is sentiment for having the roads paved. He stated that, historically, where residents are willing to donate right-of-way and do a special assessment, the County has paved roads; however, if residents are not willing to do either of those things, then it will not be one of the County’s highest priorities.

            Mr. Leonard Hokaszewski, a resident of Pine Lakes, addressed the Board, stating that the condition of the clay roads has created a disaster situation for the residents, noting that 90% of them have turned to sugarsand. He stated that the residents would like to have something done about the situation.

            Mr. Ronald Peterson, a resident of Pine Lakes, addressed the Board, stating that the residents on his road wanted their road paved, until they were told that it would cost approximately $25,000.00 per household to do so. He stated that they cannot afford to do it.

            Commr. Swartz stated that the County can try to find ways to reduce the costs a little, but the residents need to realize that there are going to be some costs involved with the project.

            It was noted that Commr. Hanson will be scheduling a meeting with the residents in the Pine Lakes area, in the near future, to discuss the condition of the roads and what costs the residents will have to incur to have them paved.

            No action was taken at this time.

            RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

            At 10:25 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would take a ten minute recess.

            CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/SOLID WASTE

            Mr. Don Post, Senior Director, Solid Waste Management Services, addressed the Board and explained this request, being a request from Solid Waste for approval and execution of Amendment No. 3 to the Solid Waste Recycling Collection Services contracts between Lake County and Town & Country Refuse, Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries, Inc., and South Lake Refuse Service, Inc., stating that the County originally started working on this issue last Fall, at which time the Board gave staff some specifics, when they mentioned the possibility of rebidding the solid waste and recycling collection services contracts. He stated that the Board suggested staff do some renegotiating with the haulers and outlined specific items that they wanted staff to renegotiate. He stated that staff did so and gave a presentation to the Board regarding same in December of last year. He stated that staff did a survey of other counties and would be presenting their findings to the Board, however, noted that one of the things they recognized was that the costs offered by the franchise haulers could be improved upon. He stated that there were two ways of accomplishing it, being (1) to go out for bid, and (2) to continue the negotiation process.

            It was noted that June 30, 1998 is the current deadline of the last extension to the negotiation period; therefore, the Board would need to either extend that period of time, or go out for bid.

            Mr. David Crowe, Senior Contracts Administrator, Solid Waste Management Services, addressed the Board and gave a brief presentation regarding this issue. He distributed a memorandum indicating the results of a collection rate survey that staff conducted, which he reviewed with the Board. He stated that staff looked at non-mandatory collection counties, as well as those counties with twice-a-week collection. He stated that, of those counties that responded to the survey without mandatory collection, only Pasco County had the same rate for twice-a-week garbage collection and once-a-week recycling pick up; however, they do not include bulk collection in their rate. He stated that, other than Pasco County, the rates ranged from $9.00 to $13.50 per month, for non-mandatory counties. He stated that the majority of the counties have twice-a-week garbage collection, noting that Hillsborough County, a mandatory county, is the lowest, with a rate of $6.22 per month. He stated that the rates ranged from a low of $6.22 per month (Hillsborough County) to a high of $29.00 per month (Dade County). He stated that the average rate of the ten counties that responded to the survey is about $14.81 per month, with Lake County’s rate being $8.77 per month, for twice-a-week pickup, which is below the average rate. He noted that the current contract expires in the year 2000 and it would be a five year renewal on top of that, making it seven years from this date, but five years on top of the existing contract.

            Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, stated that she felt the Board had given staff enough direction regarding the issue, therefore, they would be back before the Board on June 30, 1998.

            It was noted that, at said meeting, the Board is to receive from each of the three haulers a signed agreement to extend their services, should the Board choose to take such action, or they will take action to bid out said services.

            OTHER BUSINESS

            APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Bob McKee, Lake County Tax Collector, to the Women’s Hall of Fame Selection Committee for District 5.

            APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Good and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Shannon Elswick as the Industrial Development Authority’s representative on the Impact Fee Evaluation and Review Committee, for a term ending August 6, 2000.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER SWARTZ- CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT NO. 3

            APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

            On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Jim Miller as the United Chambers Representative on the Lake County Impact Fee Evaluation and Review Committee, to complete a term ending August 6, 1998, and to fill the next two year term ending August 6, 2000.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER SWARTZ - CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT NO. 3

            APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

            On a motion by Commr. Good, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Commissioner Welton Cadwell as the Designated Delegate and Commissioners Catherine Hanson and Rhonda Gerber as Alternates 1 and 2, for the annual election of officers, at NACo’s 1998 Annual Conference.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER GERBER - DISTRICT NO. 1

            EDUCATION

            Commr. Gerber commended Commr. Good and School Board member Tom Chapman, for their participation in Kid’s College, which is held two weeks out of each year.

            ADDENDUM NO. 1

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER GOOD - DISTRICT NO. 2

            MUNICIPALITIES/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE

            Commr. Good informed the Board, for informational purposes, that the City of Clermont had recommended approval of a name change for Grand Highway, at their regular city council meeting held June 6, 1998; and that the City of Clermont is considering the possible annexation of a five acre parcel on the southwest corner of Hartwood Marsh Road and Highway 27 into the City limits, noting that he wanted them to be aware of same.

            Commr. Swartz suggested that staff draft a letter to the municipalities expressing the Board’s sentiments, regarding future annexation of properties into their municipalities and any changing of the County’s Land Use Map. He stated that they need to know that the Board does not look at rural land use designations lightly, noting that they do not seem to be getting the message.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER GOOD - DISTRICT NO. 2

            CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/WATER AUTHORITY

            Commr. Good informed the Board, for informational purposes, that the Lake Lowery agreement is moving forward. He stated that the next meeting to be held with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, regarding said matter, is June 23, 1998; the Lake County Water Authority is June 24, 1998; and the St. Johns River Water Management District is July 7, 1998.

             It was noted that the Board would need to have the issue agendized for a future meeting, for discussion, by the end of June or the first of July, 1998.

            The County Attorney’s Office was requested to draft some language, as a recommendation from the Board, stating that there must be an abatement of all petitions for the Administrative Hearing prior to the commencing of the proposed study or any parties receiving a request for payment, so that the public hearing abatement will occur before the County receives any receipts for payment.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

            FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

            Commr. Hanson questioned the County Manager, Ms. Sue Whittle, as to what the procedure is regarding fires that are reported in the County and whether any investigations are held, to make sure that standard procedures are followed.

            Ms. Whittle stated that there is a standard procedure that is to be followed, that said procedure is being reviewed, and as soon as she receives a report regarding same, she will provide a copy of said report to the Board, for their perusal.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER SWARTZ - CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT NO. 3

            EDUCATION

            Commr. Swartz informed those present, for informational purposes, that he, Commr. Hanson and Commr. Good recently attended the County’s Horticultural Learning Center and were very impressed. He stated that the project far surpassed any expectations they had regarding it and they feel it is an excellent project and a great resource for the County.

            There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

 

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G. RICHARD SWARTZ, JR.,CHAIRMAN



ATTEST:


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JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK