A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

FEBRUARY 1, 2000

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 1, 2000, 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: Welton G. Cadwell, Chairman (arrived at 9:10 a.m.); Catherine C. Hanson, Vice Chairman; G. Richard Swartz, Jr.; Rhonda H. Gerber; and Robert A. Pool. Others present were: Sue Whittle, County Manager; Sanford (Sandy) A. Minkoff, County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Administrative Supervisor, Board of County Commissioner's Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

Mr. Alvin Jackson, Deputy County Manager, gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

COMMISSIONERS

Commr. Catherine Hanson, Vice Chairman, opened the meeting, noting that the Chairman, Commr. Welton Cadwell, would be a little late.

AGENDA UPDATE

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that there was an Addendum No. 1 to the Agenda, indicating the joint meeting with the Lake County School Board and the City of Clermont, scheduled for 11:00 a.m., and that she would also like to add to the Agenda an amendment to the Agreement with the Lake County Medical Examiner's Office, which she noted would require a vote.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved to place the above noted item on the Agenda.

Commr. Cadwell was not present for the discussion or vote.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he had two items to add to the Agenda, being (1) an authorization for the Chairman to sign IRS Form 8283, acknowledging a gift from Sprint to Lake County of a 0.82 acre parcel of property, for right-of-way purposes; and (2) approval of a lease for the Tax Collector's new facility in Clermont.

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Gerber and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved to place said items on the Agenda.

Commr. Cadwell was not present for the discussion or vote.

MINUTES

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of January 4, 2000 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

Commr. Cadwell was not present for the discussion or vote.

CLERK OF COURTS' CONSENT AGENDA

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

Bonds - Contractor



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



NEW



5024-2000 Gary Gioia d/b/a Anthony's Plumbing, Inc.

5318-2000 Susan M. Smith and Smith Roofing

5380-2000 Douglas Basham (Electrical)

5755-2000 Dennis W. Burdge d/b/a Skyline Improvements



CANCELLATIONS



5449-99 Timothy J. Fox d/b/a Fox Building Contractors, Inc.

5718-99 United Refrigeration, Inc.



Accounts Allowed



Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases, for the month ending December 31, 1999, in the amount of $150,937.34. Same period, last year: $164,599.41.



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.



Commr. Cadwell was not present for the discussion or vote.



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA



On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously,



by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved the following requests:



Community Services/Public Health



Request from Community Services for approval for the Lake County Probation Office to sponsor the Lake County Treatment/Service Provider's Fair, on February 17, 2000, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Lake County Agricultural Center.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Economic Development/Impact Fees



Request from Economic Development for approval of Agreement to Defer Impact Fees between Lake County and VistaPak Industries, Inc.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Economic Development/Impact Fees



Request from Economic Development for approval of Agreement to Defer Impact Fees between Lake County and Handex Environmental, Inc.





Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Economic Development/Funds



Request from Economic Development for approval of Jobs Growth Investment Trust Fund Agreement between Lake County and Restor Telecom, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $50,000.00.



Accounts Allowed/Fiscal and Administrative Services/Procurement Services

Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Roads-County and State/Road Projects



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services, for approval of Change Order No. 5 to the Superior Asphalt Company, Inc. contract for CR 455 Widening and Resurfacing Project No. 8-98, in the amount of $41,437.00.



Accounts Allowed/Fiscal and Administrative Services/Procurement Services

Contracts, Leases and Agreements



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services, for authorization to award RFP 00-008; encumber funds, in the amount of $100,000.00; and authorize annual contracts, with four additional renewal options, subject to County Attorney approval, to Tindale Oliver and Associates, Inc. and TEI Engineers and Planners, for on-call transportation planning and engineering services.



Accounts Allowed/Budgets/Fiscal and Administrative Services

Community Services/Landfills/Libraries/Public Works/Solid Waste



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Budget, for approval of the following:



Budget transfer from Landfill Enterprise Fund - Contingency, to Solid Waste Management Services - Professional Services, in the amount of $10,800.00. Additional funds are necessary to cover payments not budgeted in this year's budget for additional services performed by Perconti Data Systems, Inc.



Budget transfer from Countywide Library System Fund - Special Reserve, to Community Services - various line items, in the amount of $473,000.00. The budget change will transfer funds from Special Reserve to the appropriate object codes, for the operation, maintenance, and administration of three branch libraries for the Lake County Library System - Groveland, the Four Corners, and the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento area.



Budget transfer from the Sales Tax Capital Project Fund - General Government Buildings, to Facilities and Capital Improvements - Public Works Building, in the amount of $108,384.00. This transfer is required to complete the Public Works facility project. It was anticipated that the contract would be completed and closed by September 30, 1999. A total of $82,582.00 is a rebudget for items that have had prior approval. New budget items, including general contractor change orders, floor covering, and signage, amount to $25,802.00.



Deeds/Growth Management/Rights-of-Ways, Roads and Easements



Request from Growth Management for approval to accept a Non-Exclusive Easement Deed from Brian and Allan L. Silbernagle, for Minor Lot Split (MLS 99-074) (BOA No.

76-99-5). This property is located off Fishcamp Road (5-6549) - Commission District 5.



County Employees/Personnel



Request from Personnel for approval and execution of Certificates for employees with one and three years of service to the County.



Assessments/Public Works/Roads-County and State



Request from Public Works for approval and authorization for the Chairman to execute Satisfaction of Liens for the following road assessments:



Assess. No. Name Date Paid



679083 Harold and Lulabelle Webb 12/07/99

680003 Philip and Bonita Haskins 12/29/99

680004 Philip and Bonita Haskins 12/29/99

685035 Cicily Joseph 12/27/99



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



Request from Public Works for approval to execute Resolution No. 2000-15, for Howell Park Subdivision, accepting Silver Trail (1-5626), Genny's Lane (1-5626A), Rum Run

(1-5626B), Mutiny Point (1-5626C), and Treasure Cove Road (1-5626D) into the County Road Maintenance System. Subdivision is in Commission District 1.



Accounts Allowed/Public Works/Subdivisions



Request from Public Works for authorization to release a cashier's check, in the amount of $1,210.00, that was posted for sod installation within the Oak Pointe Subdivision. Subdivision is in Commission District 5.



Public Works/Roads-County and State



Request from Public Works for approval of a measure that would designate Duda Road/Jones Road and a segment of CR 448A as CR 48, to encourage trucks to use said route, instead of CR 448/Sadler Road, between CR 448A and US 441.



Commr. Cadwell was not present for the discussion or vote.



PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS



PERSONAL APPEARANCES



EMPLOYEE AWARDS



COUNTY EMPLOYEES



The Vice Chairman, Commr. Hanson, presented Employee Awards, as follows:



Plaque to Employees with Five Years of Service to the County



Chris Croughwell, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue (Not Present)



Charles Blinco, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue



Jeff Letourneau, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue (Not Present)



Plaque to Employees with Ten Years of Service to the County



Kathy Hartenstein, Executive Secretary, Solid Waste/Operations and Support



Deann Schultz, Human Resources Coordinator, Human Resources/Personnel



Plaque to Employee with Twenty Years of Service



Gwen Benton, Human Resources Officer, Human Resources/Personnel



Plaque and Bond to "Employee of the Quarter" - First Quarter (October, November, and December)



Brenda Quattlebaum, Executive Secretary, Department of Community Services/Administration



COMMISSIONERS



At this time, the Chairman, Commr. Welton Cadwell, arrived.



CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD



No one present wished to address the Board.





COUNTY MANAGER'S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE/SUBDIVISIONS

Mr. Bruce Thorburn, Director, Communications Systems, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that there was some controversy over it, which is to change the spelling of Spinaker Loop, in the Harbor Hills subdivision, to Spinnaker Loop. He stated that "spinaker' is a naval term for a triangular shaped sail for running with the wind. He stated that the correct spelling should be with a double "n", however, noted that the street was platted with a single "n". He stated that, per the County's ordinance, every homeowner on said street had to be contacted and it had to be determined whether or not they wanted to have the street renamed with a double "n". He stated that 40% of the individuals contacted did not want to see the spelling changed. He emphasized the fact that it is not a public safety issue, whether the name has one or two "n's", the request is merely to correct a grammatical error. He stated that, due to the fact that over 20% of the homeowners did not want the name to be changed, the Board would have to make the final decision.

Mr. Frank Altomari, who lives on said street and is the gentleman that requested the change, addressed the Board stating that he had submitted to the County a copy of a letter that he had written to each of the homeowners on Spinaker Loop, explaining the situation and requesting their input. He stated that he had informed the homeowners that they did not need to do anything and that it would not affect their deed, or the delivery of their mail. He stated that he also informed them that they would not have to change their stationery, checks, or business cards, until they had exhausted their supply. He stated that the only thing that would change would be the street sign, which would be at his expense. He requested the Board's approval of the request.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Swartz and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Communications Systems for approval of a request to change the spelling of Spinaker Loop, in the Harbor Hills Subdivision, to Spinnaker Loop.

OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES/IMPACT FEES

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Dale Bartch as the Industrial Development Authority's Representative on the Lake County Impact Fee Evaluation and Review Committee, replacing Mr. Shannon Elswick, who resigned.

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES/SOLID WASTE

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Guy White to the vacant League of Cities' position on the County-Wide Solid Waste Study Committee.

ADDENDUM NO. 2

COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA

COMMUNITY SERVICES/CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS

PUBLIC HEALTH

Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that the Medical Examiner's Selection Committee met in Ocala recently and interviewed four individuals, one of which would be submitted to the Medical Examiner's Commission, to be presented to Governor Jeb Bush. He stated that Dr. Valerie Rao, from Dade County, was the number one choice and Dr. Lisa Flannagan, from Broward County, was the second choice.

Mr. Fletcher Smith, Senior Director, Community Services, addressed the Board stating that the contract the County has with the Medical Examiner's Office expired at the end of September, 1999, and this request was for approval of an amendment to extend the contract, to pay for professional services through June of 2000. He noted that it is paid on a monthly basis.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he had suggested that the contract contain a stipulation that it be terminated if Dr. Susan Rendon, the current Medical Examiner, is no longer serving as Medical Examiner. He stated that it is the intent of the County that, when a permanent Medical Examiner is in place, a new contract will be written, which he noted will be reviewed in detail with the Board.

It was recommended that the stipulation alluded to by the County Attorney be made a part of the motion.

On a motion by Commr. Gerber, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved and authorized the execution of Amendment to Agreement between Lake County and the Medical Examiner for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, with a stipulation that the contract be terminated if Dr. Susan Rendon, the current Medical Examiner, is no longer serving as Medical Examiner for Lake County.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

COUNTY PROPERTY/RIGHTS-OF-WAY, ROADS AND EASEMENTS

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, requested authorization for the Chairman to sign IRS Form 8283, acknowledging a gift from Sprint to Lake County of a 0.82 acre parcel of property, for right-of-way purposes. He stated that it does not put a value on the property, it just acknowledges the fact that the County received the gift, for Sprint's tax purposes.

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for authorization for the Chairman to sign IRS Form 8283, acknowledging a gift from Sprint to Lake County of a 0.82 acre parcel of property, for right-of-way purposes.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS

MUNICIPALITIES/TAX COLLECTOR

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, requested approval of a lease agreement between the County and Scott and Steven Strong, for the new south Lake County Tax Collector's Office, to be located on Hwy. 27, in Clermont. He stated that it was a three year lease, with two three year renewal options. He stated that the building consists of approximately 2,320 square feet and the rental is $11.00 per square foot.

It was noted that the County's Building Department, in south Lake County, would move into the building that the Tax Collector is vacating, for the time being, until the County can establish some long-range goals.

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for approval of a three year lease agreement between the County and Scott and Steven Strong, with two three year renewal options, for a building located on Hwy. 27, in Clermont, consisting of approximately 2,320 square feet, at $11.00 per square foot, to be utilized as the new south Lake County Tax Collector's Office.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - DISTRICT 2

COMMISSIONERS/MISCELLANEOUS

Commr. Pool informed the Board that he would like to thank Mr. Frank Kinney, Executive Director, Kennedy Space Center, and Chairman Mel Martinez, Orange County Board of County Commissioners, for putting together a tour of the space complex for the seven county area, which he recently attended. He noted that the tour was interesting and very informative. He stated that the Kennedy Space Center is very important to the region and he feels it is important for the region to support the space complex and any legislation coming before it, when possible.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER SWARTZ - DISTRICT 3

RESOLUTIONS

On a motion by Commr. Swartz, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Proclamation No. 2000-16, designating February as the month to honor American Veterans wounded in combat (Viola Days).

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER CADWELL - CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 5

CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/SOLID WASTE

Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that the County received some documents it had requested from Ogden Martin, however, noted that said documents have created more questions than answers. He stated that he feels the Board should meet with Ogden Martin and Mr. F. Browne Gregg, to see if some issues that said documentation has raised can be clarified. He stated that the County is still moving forward with the issue and noted that April 1, 2000 is the deadline date for deciding whether to go with condemnation, or go to court.

OTHER BUSINESS

E-911/PUBLIC WORKS

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, informed the Board that the Mobile Home Parks Resort and Campground Map Book that was requested several years ago by Commr. Swartz, because of E-911 issues, has been completed and will soon be available to the public.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER (CONT'D.)

MEETINGS

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that the Ambulance Presentation, scheduled for February 8, 2000, on the Tentative Agenda, was an error and should be February 15, 2000.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER GERBER - DISTRICT 1 (CONT'D.)

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Commr. Gerber informed the Board that the Historical Society's educational program, which involves a five to eight week course, would be starting this date at Lake Sumter Community College.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER (CONT'D.)

MEETINGS

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that a Fiscal Retreat has been scheduled for 9:00 a.m., February 18, 2000, at Trout Lake Nature Center, located on CR 44A, in Eustis.

RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

At 9:30 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess until 11:00 a.m., for the meeting with the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, the Lake County School Board, and the City of Clermont.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

MEETING BETWEEN LAKE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, LAKE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD, AND CITY OF CLERMONT, REGARDING PROPOSED SOUTH LAKE HIGH SCHOOL SITES

Commr. Cadwell, Chairman, Lake County Board of County Commissioners, opened this meeting stating that the Lake County School Board has been looking at various parcels in the south part of the County at the same time that County staff has been looking at parcels for the purpose of constructing some type of governmental facility in that part of the County. He stated that discussions have been held with the City of Clermont, to see if something could be done together, be it governmental offices, recreation, etc., thus, the reason for this meeting.

Ms. Kyleen Fischer, Chairman, Lake County School Board, stated that she appreciated having all the entities involved at the table with the School Board, noting that they have a unique venture in south Lake County, with the extreme growth pattern that is occurring there. She stated that the School Board wants to make sure that the education facility it constructs is conducive to education for every child in south Lake County and that it meets the needs of the City of Clermont and the County, as well.

Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board does not want to interfere with the School Board's business, they just want to try to come up with some type of checklist that they can sign off on, with regard to transportation, future growth needs, etc., even if it is an unofficial checklist. He suggested an interlocal agreement between the two Boards, where the County would be involved in the process, so that there will not be school sites in areas where roads are not available.

Mr. Greg Beliveau, Land Planning Group, Inc., addressed the group stating that his firm has been tasked with evaluating six sites, however, noted that there are approximately 24 components that the Department of Education provides, in looking for school sites, be it elementary, middle, or high school. He stated that, of the six sites, three were determined to be the best, although none of the sites met all 24 components perfectly. He stated that the three parcels that met most of the criteria were (1) the Kenneth Bosserman site, located slightly south of Hwy. 50; (2) the Charles Bosserman site, located on the west side of Hwy. 27; and (3) the Lincoln Groves site, located further south. He stated that, after further evaluation, only two of the three tracts remained on the list, being the Kenneth Bosserman site and the Lincoln Groves site. He discussed problems that the School Board is faced with, with regard to the two sites, such as the availability of roads, utilities, etc. He stated that the weak link for the Bosserman site was transportation, however, noted that utilities are in close proximity and it is close to the current student body needs. He noted that the Lincoln Groves site has transportation links already in place. He distributed, for the group's perusal, a map indicating the proposed school locations and road network, as well as a memorandum, dated January 13, 2000, from the Land Planning Group, Inc. to Mr. Jerry Cox, Assistant School Superintendent, giving a transportation system update for the Bosserman and Lincoln Groves sites.

Mr. Gerald Smith, Vice Chairman, Lake County School Board, addressed the group and discussed the issue of roads (current and proposed) for the two sites in question, at which time he reviewed maps on display, stating that there were four possible points of entrance and exit for the Bosserman site, coming from multiple directions. He stated that, contrary to that, with regard

to the Lincoln Groves site, most of the traffic would be accessing the school from Hwy. 27, by way of Hartwood Marsh Road. He stated that there is a significant difference in the traffic flow for the two sites. He stated that the School Board currently has money borrowed on a contract for the Bosserman site, but it does not have one for the Lincoln Groves site. He stated that the School Board's first choice is the Bosserman site, however, because of some concerns they have about it, they have the Lincoln Groves site as a backup site. He stated that the bottom line is that they need support from the City of Clermont, as well as the Board of County Commissioners, for roads.

Mr. Jimmy Conner, Lake County School Board, informed the Board that the School Board has had a contract on the Bosserman site for approximately six months and are now at the point where they have to move forward, because they have money at risk.

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the group and distributed a map indicating a list of priorities for road construction for Road Impact Fee Benefit District 5 (the district in question) that was approved by the Board in August of 1999. He discussed the status of various roads in the area of the school sites being considered and noted that the County has put approximately $25 million into road projects in the County. He stated that they are trying to address many issues throughout the County and have set up a meeting between each benefit district and representatives from the County and the cities, to be held in March of this year. He stated that the purpose of said meeting is to work out a list of priorities, which will be taken to the Board, to be critiqued. He reviewed the 13 projects currently shown on the map, indicating the status of each.

Commr. Pool stated that he felt a very important link missing in this process were the property owners and that he felt the County should schedule a meeting with them, as soon as possible, to see how they feel about the matter.

Mr. Stivender stated that a lot of negotiations will need to take place, before the County can proceed forward with any road projects.

Mr. Hal Turville, Mayor, City of Clermont, stated that he felt the School Board's priority would be the location of the students, as they relate to the proposed school.

Ms. Hope Lamb, Councilmember, City of Clermont, stated that she felt Hook Street (one of the proposed road projects) was a priority for the City of Clermont. She stated that the level of service on Hwy. 50 is going to be a "D" before anyone can blink. She stated that the City of Clermont is facing a crisis situation with Hwy. 50 and needs Hook Street as an alternate means

of transportation, therefore, there are two reasons for the City to set its sights on Hook Street and getting it completed. She stated that she could not imagine the School Board not having 110% of cooperation from the City of Clermont, to move the project forward and get it completed. She stated that she agreed with everyone present this date that the needs of the students should be the number one priority and she feels the site closest to Clermont feels that need.

Dr. Jerry Smith, Superintendent, Lake County Schools, commended the Board of County Commissioners, the County Manager, and members of her staff for being so available to the School Board over the past year. He stated that they have had many meetings with county staff and that it was a lot of the information they received from the County that led him and his staff to consistently be in favor of the Lincoln Groves property.

Mr. Jerry Cox, Assistant Superintendent, Lake County Schools, reviewed what was discussed at said meetings, at the county level, and some of the reasons for looking at different options. He stated that, in his opinion, the only positive thing that the Bosserman site had over the Lincoln Groves site was the location of students. He discussed how said site could have a negative impact on the County, depending on the growth in south Lake County in the future. He stated that some of the greatest assets of the Lincoln Groves site is that the School Board will only have to deal with one property owner, to do what it has to do, and water and sewer is available to the site. He stated, however, that traffic will have only one way in and one way out.

Commr. Pool suggested a possible joint venture with the School Board, regarding the purchase of the Bosserman site, noting that the County may want to construct a facility at the site sometime in the future, due to its proximity, and he felt the School Board probably would not need all said property. He stated that he felt the Bosserman site was the better of the two sites.

Dr. Smith stated that he felt the people of Lake County would applaud the fact that the School Board, the Board of County Commissioners, and the City of Clermont met, to try to solve this problem. He stated that he felt it was important to not miss the opportunity to at least leave this meeting thinking about the possibility of joint ventures. He stated that he felt this meeting could possibly be a model that could continue to be used in Lake County, noting that no matter how hard the County tries, it is not going to be the "sleepy side of Orlando" much longer. He stated that he heard a lot of good information at this meeting and a lot of things that he felt he and the School System's staff could continue working on, to bring the School Board to a consensus about what should be done. He stated that he felt the Bosserman site might be an ideal site for a school, but maybe an elementary school, rather than a high school, and that, perhaps, the Lincoln Groves site, partnered with the County, the City of Clermont, the YMCA, and other partners, might be an ideal location to start the joint venture alluded to by Commr. Pool.

Mr. Conner requested a consensus statement from the Board of County Commissioners and invited the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jerry Smith, to follow that directive. He stated that this group heard a lot about the cost of roads, but had not heard one word about transportation costs, if the School Board builds a school at the Lincoln Groves site. He stated that there are a lot of other costs that have not been considered, as well. He stated that he would not vote to buy the Lincoln Groves site, because he feels it is in a dangerous location. He stated that he felt they would be putting the students' lives at risk, with the truck traffic that travels Hartwood Marsh Road. He stated that he could not believe there was a serious proposal to put a school across the street from a sand mine. He stated that he hoped the School Board had obtained enough data, over the last six months, that they could take a stand, once again, for what they feel is the best site. He stated that, because the School Board has a contract and money at risk on that contract that will be forfeited if they do not close, he feels the Board needs to make a consensus statement about what their intentions are and then have the leadership move forward and try to get the road rights-of-way they need to make the Bosserman site work.

Commr. Swartz stated that he felt this was a good meeting and something that should have been done in the past, because of concerns about roads, fire and emergency services, and those types of things. He stated that he would not be able to support the Lincoln Groves site, because he could not support having a school constructed so far away from everything. He stated that he would vote against any joint ventures, because he feels it would move the County further and further away from the infrastructure, which would end up costing the County more and more. He stated that the County is beginning to see how important it is to have development occur as close as possible to existing infrastructure, or planned infrastructure. He stated that, if the School Board stated they wanted the Bosserman site, he feels the Board would support their decision and do everything they could to get roads to the site, however, noted that the School Board needed to be aware of the fact that, even under the most optimistic projections, if the road started getting paved two years from now, he would be surprised.

Ms. Lamb discussed some concerns she had about Hartwood Marsh Road. She stated that, even though her business is located in Orange County, the only access she has to her business is Hartwood Marsh Road. She stated that, when she built her business there 15 years ago, it was a little country road; however, it is now getting to be a freeway. She stated that it is a severe problem and feels that the last thing the School Board would want to do is put another problem where a problem already exists.

Mr. Turville stated that the proposed school needed to be as centrally located as possible. He stated that, if the School Board is planning to construct a school in the Hartwood Marsh Road area, or south of it, it did not make any sense to him.

Ms. Fischer, Chairman, Lake County School Board, stated that, if nothing else, this meeting clarified the intent of the City of Clermont and the County and what can and cannot be done. She stated that the School Board had heard rumors that the County and the City of Clermont felt a specific way, but now they have heard how they feel face to face.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether the School Board would have any problem with county staff drawing up an interlocal agreement that would address the school site selection, where the County could play a part in it. He stated that they will try to stay out of areas that are not any of their business, but feel they should be involved in issues such as transportation, fire and emergency services, etc.

Mr. Smith, Vice-Chairman, Lake County School Board, stated that he felt the School Board could use the help.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he appreciated everyone's candor and that he felt it was a productive meeting.

Ms. Fischer thanked everyone for their input.

RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

At 12:30 p.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess until 1:30 p.m.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

PRESENTATION

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION - TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

Mr. Mike Snyder, District Secretary, State of Florida, Department of Transportation, addressed the Board stating that one of the primary reasons for his being at this meeting was to hear some of the issues of Lake County and obtain some feedback regarding same.

Mr. James L. Ely, District Secretary, Florida Turnpike, Florida Department of Transportation, addressed the Board stating that the Florida Turnpike's Headquarters was being relocated from Tallahassee to the Turkey Lake Service Plaza, on the Turnpike, which is scheduled to be completed in July of this year. He stated that he and many of his staff have

chosen Lake County as their residence. He stated that Lake County is a beautiful county and he was glad to be a resident of it. He gave a brief overview of Florida's Turnpike Program, at which time he reviewed a slide presentation of same. He stated that the Turnpike has been in business for over 40 years and has changed a great deal during that time. He stated that the mission of the Turnpike is to help meet the transportation needs of the State, as well as the regions in the State; to pursue public and private sector partnerships; to help build transportation projects; to serve its patrons, of which over 800,000 travel the Turnpike per day; and to protect the interest of those who have invested monies in the program - the bondholders.

Mr. Ely stated that the primary misconception of the Turnpike is that it is a Turnpike Authority, however, noted that there has not been a Turnpike Authority in the State since 1969. He stated that that year the Turnpike Authority was disbanded and the Turnpike became part of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). He stated that the Turnpike is one of the eight FDOT districts, with the primary difference being how they are funded, which he elaborated on. He discussed changes that have been made in the Florida Turnpike System, since its conception. He stated that the next two primary projects that are being constructed in the State are the Suncoast Parkway 1 (scheduled for completion in 2001), which will connect the Veterans Expressway to U.S. 98, and the Seminole Expressway 2 (scheduled for completion in 2003), known as the "missing link". He stated that, with the two projects alluded to, the Florida Turnpike System will expand to 449 miles, most of which are in Central and South Florida, the primary reason for the movement of their headquarters from Tallahassee.

Mr. Ely discussed projects that are being constructed, in partnership with the Expressway Authority, the Department of Transportation, the Turnpike District, several developers, and two counties, to help fund and build projects such as the Western Beltway C Project and the Seminole Expressway Project 2. He stated that the two largest complaints received by the Florida Turnpike is (1) having to pay a toll to ride it, and (2) having to wait in line to pay the toll. He stated that FDOT began an electronic toll collection system last year called SunPass, which began in south Florida. He stated that the system uses a "transponder", at which time he showed the Board what a "transponder" is, and noted that they have sold over 140,000 of them, to date. He stated that it goes in the inside windshield of one's car and will enable one to go through any toll plaza in the State, without having to stop and wait in line to pay the toll. He noted that the E-Pass System has been working very successfully, as well.



Mr. Ely discussed the Turnpike's toll revenues, noting that this year's revenues will be $350 million, from all sources, and will grow to $425 million by the year 2004. He stated that approximately one-third of the State's total revenues are able to be invested in renewal, replacement, and improvement projects in the Turnpike System, however, noted that the Turnpike System currently has approximately $1.8 billion in outstanding debt.

Mr. Terry Denham, Director of Planning, Turnpike District, addressed the Board and discussed the Turnpike District's Tentative 5-Year Work Program through Fiscal Year 2005; the Ten Year Work Program, from Fiscal Year 2006 to 2010; and the Cost Feasible Turnpike System Plan. He stated that the Turnpike System Plan, which they plan to issue in the Fall of this year, is divided into three areas, being (1) the 10 Year Finance Plan, in which they are moving projects, or doing all the planning work to move them into the Five Year Work Program; (2) the 20 Year Cost Feasible Plan, where they are preparing projects to move into either the 10 Year Finance Plan, or the Five Year Work Program; and (3) the TSP Needs Plan, where they put all the projects that have been recommended to the Turnpike System that they feel are suitable for further study.

Mr. Ely readdressed the Board stating that, by Statute, there are three requirements that have to be met for the Turnpike to invest in a project, which were established in 1990, being (1) the project has to be environmentally sound; (2) it has to be economically feasible; and (3) it has to have local support. He stated that they look forward to working with the County, in the years to come, and would like to build a strong and lasting relationship with the County, the Orlando Expressway Authority, and District 5.

The Chairman thanked Mr. Ely for his presentation.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

PRESENTATION

ORLANDO-ORANGE COUNTY EXPRESSWAY AUTHORITY- TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

Mr. Harold W. Worrall, Executive Director, Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority, addressed the Board and gave a brief presentation about the history of the Orlando Expressway Authority and where they think they are going to go. He stated that the Orlando Expressway Authority is in the middle of its 2025 plan at the present time. He stated that the Expressway Authority was formed by the State Legislature in 1963 and noted that their activities

are controlled by a five member board. He stated that the Expressway currently has 79 miles, not counting the Western Beltway Part A, which will put them at about 89 miles when it opens June 30, 2000. He stated that it will have 39 interchanges, 186 bridges, 10 mainline toll plazas (not counting Part A's plaza), and 38 ramp toll plazas. He stated that the Bee Line was their first project, which opened in 1967 and was built for $7 million. He stated that the next project was the East/West Expressway, or SR 408. He stated that the last project was the Southern Connector, opened in June of 1993, which was approximately 21 miles long, and cost $273 million to build. He stated that that shows how things changed from 1967 to 1993. He stated that they are now in the process of building Part A, which is on schedule, under budget, and will open June 30, 2000. He stated that the major interchange of the Turnpike will open nine to twelve months after that, so one will be able to get to SR 50 on the current interchange, get on the Turnpike, and go to SR 408. He stated that approximately one year after that, they will have the full interchange.

Mr. Worrall stated that the Expressway Authority took a survey and found that, whether people are E-Pass customers, non-E-Pass customers, business E-Pass customers, or non customers, they would prefer to pay tolls, as opposed to a general tax. He stated that the Expressway Authority is in the middle of its Long Range Master Plan, at the present time, where it evaluates its policy strategies, existing roadway systems, and potential future strategies. He stated that they identify priorities and a general approach and provide a strategic framework for its Five Year Work Plan. He stated that their Five Year Work Plan is updated annually, it identifies capital projects that the Authority anticipates funding, its current plan runs from 2000 to 2004, it contains 71 projects, and has approximately $375 million in expenditures planned over that period of time. He stated that some of the Programs and Projects are E-Pass (Electronic Toll Collection), which was deployed in May of 1994. He stated that it has 215,000 active transponders, the weekday transactions average 40%, its peak period transactions average 48%, and SunPass and E-Pass are to become compatible. He stated that the Western Expressway - Part A consists of 10.6 miles, will cost $237 million to build, is currently under construction, and is scheduled for completion in 2001. He stated that the Western Expressway - Part C consists of 22 miles, will cost $500 million to build, is a partnership project, the design is under way, and right-of-way acquisition is presently ongoing. He stated that, with regard to the SR 408 - Western Extension Project, the Authority is looking at the possibility of doing something with the County, if it so chooses. He stated that it will be an alternative to SR 50 and will provide better access between South Lake County/Clermont and the Metro Orlando area; however, no studies have been done to date.

Mr. Worrall stated that they are looking at doing a study on three corridors, as a relief for SR 50, if the County chooses to do so, being the Northern Corridor, the Central Corridor, and the Southern Corridor. He stated that the County would need to request the Expressway Authority to proceed with the study and there would need to be some sort of interlocal agreement between the two entities. He stated that a concept study would need to be done, to consider various alignments, as well as a revenue and cost analysis, along with environmental impacts. He stated that they would need public input and Lake County's coordination, as well. He stated that another project the Expressway Authority has done a study on is the Western Expressway - Northwest Extension, which is an alternative to U.S. 441 and will provide improved access between Mt. Dora/Leesburg and Metro Orlando

Mr. Joe Berenis, Deputy Director, Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority, addressed the Board and reviewed several slides of the alignments alluded to by Mr. Worrall, explaining what will be done, with regard to same.

Mr. Worrall readdressed the Board stating that the Expressway Authority is in sound financial condition, it is experiencing extraordinary growth, the management group, as a whole, is stable, the system condition is excellent, and their approach to the future is an innovative one.

Commr. Cadwell questioned what timeframe the County would be looking at, if it decided it wanted the Expressway Authority's help in the south part of the County and entered into an interlocal agreement to proceed with the study.

Mr. Worrall stated that, after the necessary steps have been taken and the study is approved, they could probably start in March or April of this year. He stated that it would take approximately six to nine months to complete the study, at which point everyone involved would look at the results, to determine whether or not to pursue the project any further.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he would like for the County Attorney to meet with the Expressway Authority's attorney and come back with an interlocal agreement for Board approval. He stated that the interlocal agreement will be asking the Expressway Authority to do the things that are necessary to do a concept study.

Commr. Pool stated that, in the event the County cannot work out a 100% partnership with the Expressway Authority, they may find that there are still opportunities or dollars available, by including other partners. He stated that, in the event the County cannot reach an agreement either way, he would like to see a three way partnership between the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority, the Florida Department of Transportation, and Lake County.

A motion was made by Commr. Hanson and seconded by Commr. Pool to direct the County Attorney to meet with the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority and move forward with an interlocal agreement that would allow the County to proceed with a concept study, for both the north and south parts of the County.

Under discussion, Commr. Swartz stated that he was going to support the motion, because it appeared to be two possible corridors that might be of benefit to the people of Lake County. He stated that the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority has one advantage over what the Department of Transportation does, which is control access to their roads, however, noted that counties and cities have pretty much destroyed the capacity to use their roads. He stated that he would like to caution the Board, as they look at these types of agreements, noting that they may, at some point, come to one that may not necessarily benefit Lake County, but may solve some of the traffic problems that exist to the east of the County. He stated that those are the types of agreements that he would not support, noting that he has seen too many places where the "loop" has gone around the "loop" and they are looking at the third "loop" and he feels that is not the way to do it.

The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which was carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote.

The Chairman thanked Mr. Worrall for his presentation.

OTHER BUSINESS

PUBLIC WORKS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE/ROAD PROJECTS

Commr. Cadwell questioned Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, about the Lakeshore Drive project, in Tavares, with regard to the tagging of trees and whether or not the rumors that trees would be removed were true.

Commr. Swartz interjected that the County is not the one tagging the trees. He stated that it is being done by people who are opposed to doing anything with the road, suggesting that the tagged trees might be ones that will be coming down.

Mr. Stivender stated that there were no plans to remove any trees on Lakeshore Drive, noting that it is classified as a scenic highway, which was approved in 1991.

The Chairman noted that there will be public input before that project is approved.



There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p.m.







______________________________ WELTON G. CADWELL, CHAIRMAN



ATTEST:







_________________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK



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