BCC Board Meeting Minutes

A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

JANUARY 9, 2001

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 9, 2001, 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: Catherine C. Hanson, Chairman; Robert A. Pool, Vice Chairman; Welton G. Cadwell; Debbie Stivender; and Jennifer Hill. Others present were: Sue Whittle, County Manager; Sanford A. Minkoff, County Attorney; James C. Watkins, Clerk of the Circuit Court; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; Wendy Taylor, Administrative Supervisor, Board of County Commissioner's Office; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

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

AGENDA UPDATE

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he had two items to add to the Agenda, being (1) an amendment to the lease for the Tax Collector's Office, located in The Villages, in Lady Lake; and (2) a request for the Board to hold a private meeting, to discuss some litigation regarding Ogden Martin.

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to place said items on the Agenda.

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that she would like to discuss, under her County Manager's business, the February schedule for the Board of County Commissioner's Meetings.

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to place said item on the Agenda.

MINUTES

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of December 5, 2000, as presented.

Regarding the Minutes of December 12, 2000, the following was requested:

On Page 1, Lines 23 and 24, clarification was made regarding the language pertaining to the impact to the County, with regard to the not-for-profit ambulance service. It was requested that the language read as follows: "...there was no negative impact in the level of services to the County."

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of December 12, 2000, as amended.

CLERK OF COURTS' CONSENT AGENDA

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

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.

Bonds - Contractor

Request to approve Contractor Bonds - New and Cancellations, as follows:

NEW

4303-01 J & H Electric Company

4937-01 Wolfram A. Grothe

5485-01 Danny James d/b/a Danny James Refrigeration and A/C Service

5664-01 Daniel Hill and Gordon G. Douglas d/b/a Alumico, Inc. (General)

5808-01 Scott Rine d/b/a Rine Construction

5809-01 William R. Bil d/b/a William Bil Plumbing

5810-02 Kook Han Kim d/b/a KDEC, Inc.

5811-01 William G. Redmond d/b/a First Class Electric Service

CANCELLATIONS

5301-00 David A. Labagh

5749-01 Michael Anderson d/b/a Anderson Gas Service, Inc.

5777-00 Eric Vincent McCoy d/b/a Central Florida Construction Group, Inc.

5794-00 Roger Woodruff d/b/a Woodruff Signs, Inc.

Accounts Allowed/Clerk

Request to acknowledge receipt of list of items to be deleted from Fixed Assets, for the month of January 2001, in the amount of $285,436.72.

Accounts Allowed/Clerk

Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases, for the month ending November 30, 2000, in the amount of $134,182.39. Same period last year: $115,532.09.

Florida Public Service Commission/Utilities

Request to acknowledge receipt of Notice Before the Florida Public Service Commission, Undocketed, In Re: Proposed Rule 25-24.517, F.A.C., Notice of Proposed Rule Development to All Interested Persons, Issued: December 7, 2000. Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 120.54, Florida Statutes, that the Florida Public Service Commission staff has initiated the development of Rule 25-24.517, Florida Administrative Code, to adopt provisions relating to the location of pay telephones. A rule development workshop will be held at the following time and place: Florida Public Service Commission, 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 10, 2001, Betty Easley Conference Center, Room 152, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0850.

Accounts Allowed/Courts-Judges

Request to acknowledge receipt of the following:

Satisfaction and Release of Fine for Marshall H. Gaard, Trustee, and Betty L. Gaard, Reduction of Order of Fine, in the amount of $5,000.00, dated July 21, 1999, and recorded in Official Record Book 1736, Pages 2136 and 2137, of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lake County, Florida, on the 26^th day of July, 1999, and the acknowledgment of $4,476.05 as payment in full of said indebtedness; and authorized proper signatures on same.

Satisfaction and Release of Fine for William F. Daugherty, deceased, and William F. Daugherty, Jr., Reduction of Order of Fine, in the amount of $500.00, dated September 16, 1999, recorded in Official Record Book 1882, Pages 1497 and 1498,of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lake County, Florida, on the 27^th day of November, 2000; and in Official Record Book 487, Pages 171 and 172, of the Public Records of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Hamilton County, Florida, on the 4^th day of December, 2000; and authorized proper signatures on same. (Note: Two originals to be signed)

Municipalities/Ordinances

Request to acknowledge receipt of the following Ordinances, from the Town of Lady Lake:

Ordinance No. 2000-02, pertaining to Comprehensive Planning, amending Town of Lady Lake Ordinance No. 81-8-(83) and Ordinance 91-21, which established the Town of Lady Lake Comprehensive Plan; establishing criteria for the location of public schools within the Town limits, by amending the Future Land Use Element (Chapter 1) of the Town of Lady Lake Comprehensive Plan; repealing conflicting ordinances, recorded in Book 1888, Pages 972-979.

Ordinance No. 2000-21, voluntarily annexing that property being 9+/- acres of land owned by North Lake Baptist Church, located in the vicinity of Griffin Avenue, into the corporate limits of the Town of Lady Lake, recorded in Book 1887, Pages 2159-2181.

Ordinance No. 2000-24, voluntarily annexing that property being 9+/- acres of land owned by John Fisher, located in the vicinity of Griffin Avenue, into the corporate limits of the Town of Lady Lake, recorded in Book 1887, Pages 2182-2204.

Ordinance No. 2000-19, pertaining to the merchandising of tobacco products.

Ordinance No. 2000-23, pertaining to redesignating zoning classification for property owned by North Lake Baptist Church.

Ordinance No. 2000-26, pertaining to redesignating zoning classification for property owned by John Fisher.

Ordinance No. 2000-27, pertaining to a special election to fill a vacancy when a vacancy occurs more than 150 days prior to a general election.

Ordinance No. 2000-29, pertaining to voluntarily annexing property, being 45 +/- acres of land owned by the Town of Lady Lake, located in the vicinity south of Skyline Subdivision, west of April Hills Subdivision, and north of Hidden Oaks Subdivision.

Ordinance No. 2000-31, pertaining to redesignating zoning classification for property owned by the Town of Lady Lake.

Ordinance No. 2000-32, pertaining to adopting the operating budget for Fiscal Year October 1, 2000 through September 30, 2001, for the Town of Lady Lake.

Ordinance No. 2000-31, pertaining to redesignating zoning classification for property owned by the Town of Lady Lake.

Ordinance No. 2000-32, pertaining to adopting the operating budget for Fiscal Year October 1, 2000 through September 30, 2001, for the Town of Lady Lake.

CLERK OF COURTS' DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

Mr. James C. Watkins, Clerk, informed the Board that he came before them last Summer and obtained approval to meet with the management of First Union Bank, located at 122 E. Main Street, in Tavares, along with Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, with respect to the purchase of said property, to be occupied by the Clerk's Office, and to have an appraisal done, as well as to have an architect look at the building, to see if there were any problems, such as asbestos. He stated that the bank had originally quoted $1,124,000.00, or $83.00 per square foot, however, noted that two appraisals which had been done on the property both came back at $850,000.00. He stated that there are some things that need to be done to the building, but there is no asbestos, or anything that would indicate that the County should not pursue the purchase of it, therefore, recommended that the County purchase it and remodel it for the Clerk's operations. He stated that he planned to move the Recording Department into the building. He stated that he met with the City's Mayor and City Administrator and they are concerned that, as the County continues to grow and government continues to eat up the properties located in the downtown area, what they would like to see achieved for the downtown area may or may not happen. He stated that he informed them that the Recording Department would bring more people to the downtown area than any other operation that is currently there, with possibly the exception of City Hall.

Mr. Watkins stated that he felt the original asking price of $1,124,000.00 was a good price; however, he was glad to announce that it will be considerably less than that. He stated that he would be willing to make a commitment that, within a four year period, the Clerk's Office will be able to pay for the building and the remodeling of it through excess fees collected by his office. He stated that he would like to see two things happen this date, being (1) authorization for the County Attorney to negotiate a contract, for the Chairman's signature; and (2) authorization for the remodeling of the building, so that the matter can move forward. He stated that approximately six months have already passed since he last brought this matter before the Board, which was the Summer of 2000. He stated that his office is out of space and pointed out the fact that it is probably going to be another four to six months before his office will be able to occupy the building.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he had discussed the two appraisals that were done on the building, which both came back at $850,000.00, with the bank administrators and they agreed to sell it at said price.

Mr. Mike Anderson, Senior Director, Facilities and Capital Improvements, addressed the Board and discussed the cost to renovate the building, stating that a lot of the renovation will depend on what accommodations the Clerk's Office will need to occupy the building. He stated that the building is in very sound condition and can almost be used as is, with some minor modifications, however, noted that it will need a roof repair. He stated that the renovations could cost as little as $20.00 per square foot up to $80.00 per square foot.

Mr. Watkins interjected that he would like to see the building remodeled to the same quality that the County remodeled the Post Office, for the Law Library. He stated that he wanted removable partitions, rather than permanent walls, therefore, felt that, from a budgetary standpoint, the remodeling job would probably cost $75.00 to $80.00 per square foot. He stated that he planned to save some costs involved by taking out walls and using office landscaping to separate some of the areas. He stated that he would like to have a state-of-the-art building - one that the County could later use for itself, or sell to another business.

It was noted that the building consists of 13,520 square feet, it sits on approximately one and a half acres, and there are currently 60 parking spaces.

Mr. Watkins stated that he felt the drive-thru teller area could be demolished and turned into additional parking spaces, increasing parking for the downtown area, which is one of the things that the City is concerned about. He stated that approximately 30 of his employees will be transferred from the Judicial Center to said building.

It was noted that the renovation could cost as much as $1 million, if it is done at the $80.00 per square foot figure; however, the Clerk feels that the excess fees collected by his office will cover said costs.

Commr. Stivender stated that she met with Mr. Watkins and his staff and asked that they meet with the City's administrators, on a formal basis, to find out how they feel about the building being taken off the City's tax roll. She stated that she toured the Clerk's Office and found that the employees are sitting on top of each other, so it is definitely a necessity that he be given additional space. She stated that she planned to approve the request, because it is something that the Clerk needs. She stated that she was concerned about the fact that the Clerk's space needs have been brought to the attention of the Board for the past four to five years, to no avail. She stated that she feels the Board needs to address the issue, find a funding source, get a plan in action, and get the additional space built, noting that the purchase of the First Union Bank building will only be a short-term fix. She stated that it is the Board's responsibility to address the problem. She stated that, due to the fact that many of the County's buildings are located in downtown Tavares, she feels the Board needs to work with the City and come up with a master plan of what the County's overall build-out is going to be in the next 20 years. She stated that, if the Board needs to hold a workshop meeting to discuss the matter, that is what they should do, particularly for the new commissioners, because it is an issue that she feels needs to be addressed now.

Ms. Dottie Keedy, City Administrator, City of Tavares, addressed the Board stating that she had not been directed by the City Council to come before the Board and oppose the purchase of the First Union Bank building; however, she noted that the matter has been discussed in past council meetings and the consensus of the Council is that, from the City's perspective, it would be more advantageous for the County to lease the property, rather than purchase it. She stated that, if it is going to be a short-term use, leasing the property would keep it on the tax roll and it would be available in the future for any redevelopment use. She stated that the City does not have a problem with the Clerk's Office being located at the site, noting that they feel it would be a great use for the property.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he felt it would be a mistake to lease the property, if the County is going to invest a lot of money in it renovating it for the Clerk's Office.

Mr. Watkins stated that he felt the original asking price of $1,124,000.00 was a good buy and that he still feels it would be a good buy, noting that $83.00 per square foot for a building located on Main Street, in downtown Tavares, that overlooks a park that will always be there, as well as a lake is a good deal. He stated that he feels the property could be used by the County for at least ten years, if not forever, noting that the County is only going to get bigger, in terms of needed office space.

A motion was made by Commr. Stivender and seconded by Commr. Pool to authorize the County Attorney to execute a contract, for the Chairman's signature, regarding the purchase of the First Union Bank property, to be occupied by the Clerk's Office; and authorized the remodeling of said building, for said purpose.

Under discussion, Mr. Watkins informed the Board that his office would be bringing the plans back to them, for approval, when they know what the cost is going to be and that they will be very sensitive to said costs.

Commr. Pool stated that he felt the County needed to be very careful during the renovation process and invest the dollars wisely.

It was noted that the contract for the renovations, as well as the architect, will have to come before the Board for approval before any renovations are done to the building.

Mr. Watkins stated that his office will do everything it can to keep the cost of the renovations down, yet have it be the same quality that the County has done on other projects.

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

COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that she would like to pull Tab 15, a request from Public Works for authorization to award the North Hancock Road Extension (2-1354), Phase 1B, Project No. 2001-014, Bid No. 01-027, to J. Malever Construction Company; and to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $1,107,674.20, from the Road Impact Fee Fund, to be addressed at a later date.

Commr. Pool requested that Item No. 7, under Tab 6, a request for approval of an Impact Fee Refund Request to Mr. Alan Baron, in the amount of $1,019.80, be pulled and addressed separately, noting that he needed to abstain from the discussion and vote, because he personally knows the individual involved.

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

Community Services/Resolutions/State Agencies

Request from Community Services for approval and authorization of Resolution No. 2001-3, amending the Lake County Affordable Housing Assistance Plan for the State, for Fiscal Years 2000-2001, 2001-2002, and 2002-2003, to include a Disaster Mitigation/Recovery Strategy; and adopt the Median Area Purchase Price established through the Local Housing Finance Authority (HFA).

Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Facilities and Capital Improvements/Grants

Municipalities

Request from Facilities and Capital Improvements for approval to execute an Interlocal Agreement between Lake County, the City of Umatilla, and The Eustis Little League, Inc., recipients of the grant for FY 2000/2001.

Accounts Allowed/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Budget/Budgets

Budget Transfers/Clerk's Office/Grants/Impact Fees/Resolutions/Sheriff's Office

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

Budget transfer from Insurance Payment, Administrative Fees, in the amount of $50,000.00, to Claims, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, in the amount of $50,000.00. Additional funds are needed to replenish loss reserves, which have been depleted by a recent large loss in the Emergency Services Department. The total amount paid of $157,424.00, for overturn of a fire truck (date of loss 6/3/00), has substantially reduced Lake County's reserve amount in the loss account for funding expected liability claims for the 2000/2001 fiscal year. Lake County's self-insured retention for a single property loss is $100,000.00. Funds will be transferred from Insurance Payments ($50,000) and Administrative Fees ($50,000). The amount budgeted was in anticipation of a significant rate increase. The rates charged were lower than the amount budgeted. The transfer from these accounts, along with a resolution for anticipated revenue for reimbursement, should provide adequate funds to meet expected obligations for the current year.

Resolution No. 2001-4, amending the Property and Casualty Insurance Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2000/2001, in the amount of $100,000.00, from insurance reimbursements and to provide appropriations for the disbursement of these funds to Property and Liability claims payments.

Resolution No. 2001-5, amending the General Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue, for Fiscal Year 2000/2001, in the amount of $630,330.00, from the Lake County School Board, for school resource officers and to provide appropriations for the disbursement of these funds to the school resource office transfer account. Per the agreement between the School Board of Lake County, the Sheriff is requesting that the Board of County Commissioners be the Sheriff's designee for invoicing the School Board for the funding of school resource officers. The Sheriff's Office will request these funds from the Board on the monthly requisition of funds.

Resolution No. 2001-6, amending the General Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2000/2001, in the amount of $28,019.00, from the Florida School Readiness Partnership Initiation Grant, in accordance with Board approval on November 2, 1999. This makes the total distribution to Lake County $78,019.00.

Request from the Clerk's Office for payment of Criminal Court costs for November, 2000. This request exceeds the County Manager's approval limit of $25,000.00. Total payment is for $25,868.00.

Request from the Sheriff to refund excess fees resulting from auditors' request to accrue retirement and workers compensation on wages accrued as of September 30, 2000. The request exceeds the County Manager's approval limit of $25,000.00. Total payment is for $82,881.00.

Impact Fee Refund Request to Lucas Clermont Limited Partnership, in the amount of $285.00. Road impact fee was charged incorrectly when permit was issued. Road impact fee charged was $1,005.00 and should have been $720.00. Refund difference is $285.00.

Impact Fee Refund Request to PEI Homes, Inc., in the amount of $1,227.58. Permit charged for a four bedroom home; residence is a three bedroom home.

Accounts Allowed/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Impact Fee Coordination

Impact Fees/Resolutions

Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Impact Fee Coordination, for approval of Resolution No. 2001-7, updating the Reservation of Capacity Fee originally determined in Resolution No. 1995-102; and authorization to execute same.

Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Building Department/Growth Management

Subdivisions

Request from Growth Management to accept and execute agreement between Lake County and Citrus Highlands, Inc., to pull six (6) building permits, prior to acceptance of final plat. Commission District 2.

Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Growth Management/Municipalities

Request from Growth Management for approval of Interlocal Agreement for the Town of Groveland, dealing with regulation of licensed and unlicensed contractors within its municipal limits.

Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Building Department/Growth Management

Subdivisions

Request from Growth Management to accept and execute agreement between Lake County and Whitemark Homes, Inc., for issuance of six (6) building permits for Lots 2, 3, 4, 34, 35, and 36, in the Glennbrook Subdivision, prior to acceptance and recordation of final plat.

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

Request from Public Works for approval and acceptance of the following deeds:

Conservation Easement Deed

Robert K. Hogan, Trustee of the

Robert K. Hogan Family Trust, dated 8/12/99

Drainage Easement Deed

Park Square Enterprises, Inc., a Florida corporation

N. Hancock Road (2-1354)

Non-Exclusive Easement Deed

William E. and Martha B. Burleigh

Disston Avenue

Statutory Warranty Deeds

Lake Region Packing Association, a Florida corporation

CR 448 (3-3156)

Park Square Enterprises, Inc., a Florida corporation

Temporary Non-Exclusive Easement Deeds

Lake Region Packing Association, a Florida corporation

CR 448 (3-3156)

Park Square Enterprises, Inc., a Florida corporation

N. Hancock Road (2-1354)

Accounts Allowed/Bids/Public Works/Road Projects

Request from Public Works for authorization to advertise for bids for CR-42 Paved Shoulder Improvement Project No. 2001-08, at an estimated cost of $950,000.00. FDOT has agreed to fund $950,000.00 for the project. Commission District 4.

Assessments/Public Works

Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to execute Satisfaction of Liens for seventeen (17) road assessments, as follows:

Assessment No. Name Date Paid

677014 Roland and Judith Belanger 11/15/00

677015 Roland and Judith Belanger 11/15/00

677016 Roland and Judith Belanger 11/15/00

677017 Roland and Judith Belanger 11/15/00

677051 Alfred Shapiro 10/16/00

677052 Alfred Shapiro 10/16/00

677071 Alfred Shapiro 11/27/00

677072 Alfred Shapiro 11/27/00

679054 Margaret Brewer 10/11/00

679060 Bruce Kroencke and Peggy Philipson 10/02/00

679077 Gladys Wollet 10/03/00

681003 Samuel and Matina Pickett 10/18/00

681009 Frederick and Emma Grimes 10/18/00

685029 Judith and James Paynter, Jr. 10/30/00

685060 Harvey and Barbara Caldwell 10/23/00

685067 Joseph and Jana Paynter 10/30/00

688025 Robin Klearman 10/18/00

Accounts Allowed/Bids/Public Works/Road Projects

Request from Public Works for authorization to award CR-42/CR 450 Intersection Improvement Project No. 2001-02, Bid No. 01-019, to Lem Bryant Land Clearing; and to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $143,495.00, from the Impact Fee Fund. Commission District 5, Benefit District 1.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCES

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

The Chairman presented the following Employee Awards:

Certificates to Employees with One Year of Service to the County

Brenda R. Eastman, Permitting Specialist, Growth Management/Building Services

Stanley E. Miller, Maintenance Worker, Ag Education Extension Services

Russell H. Felker, Environmental Technician, Solid Waste/WMFO

Landis Arroyo, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue

Timothy D. Judy, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue

Joshua C. Hayes, Mower Operator, Public Works/Roads/M.A. II

William E. Hyde, III, Senior Building Inspector, Growth Management/Building Services

John A. Magrum, Traffic Signal Technician, Public Works/Roads/Signs, Signals & Striping

Kelly A. Messer, Permitting Specialist, Growth Management/Building Services

Mary E. Roberts, Program Assistant, Solid Waste/WMFO

Joseph A. Martin, Parking Courtesy Monitor, Facilities and Capital Improvements

Certificates to Employees with Three Years of Service to the County

Daniel P. Miller, Firefighter/EMT, Emergency Services/Fire Rescue

Brenda C. Reynolds, Veterans Services Specialist, Community Services/Veterans Services

Deryl D. Boyd, Environmental Inspector, Solid Waste/WMFO

Plaques to Employees with Five Years of Service to the County

Martin "Skip" A. Nemcek, Chief Building Examiner, Growth Management/Building Services

Elizabeth N. Wright, Parts Inventory Specialist, Public Works/Roads/Special Services

Leeland B. Shelton, Jr., Equipment Operator III, Public Works/Roads/ M.A. III

Plaques to Employees with Ten Years of Service to the County

David J. Warren, Director, Conventions and Visitors Bureau, Tourism

Linda J. Schneeberger, Administrative Office Associate I, Tourism (Not Present)

Rebecca L. Holland, Animal Control Officer, Emergency Services/Animal Control

Plaque to Employee with Fifteen Years of Service to the County

Michael W. Termeer, Sr., Maintenance Specialist, Solid Waste/WMFO

Plaque to Employee with Twenty Years of Service to the County

Linda J. Lorentz, Budget Office Coordinator, Fiscal and Administrative Services/Budget (Not Present)

Plaque to Employee Retiring with Fourteen Years and One Month of Service to the County

Patricia Ann Stahl, Human Services Specialist, Community Services/Human Services

PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

PRESENTATION

FRIENDS OF LAKE APOPKA DEVELOPMENT DESIGN GUIDELINES

Mr. Jim Thomas, representing the Friends of Lake Apopka, addressed the Board to present the Lake Apopka Development Design Guidelines, stating that the Friends of Lake Apopka was incorporated in 1991, as a citizens grassroots group, focusing on the restoration of Lake Apopka. He stated that, since that time, they have had excellent support from Lake County, which he noted is a very important part of the restoration of Lake Apopka. He stated that they are happy with what has happened since 1991, however, look forward to the future. He stated that they see as a real possibility a tremendously rapid development of the Apopka basin and feel that, if they trade stormwater for farm runoff, they have not gained very much and have wasted a lot of tax dollars in the process. He stated that they wanted to get ahead of the game as much as they could, therefore, began putting together a group to look at ways to decrease the impact of development that they know is going to occur, which they would like to have in place as quickly as possible. He stated that the southern end of the basin, around Winter Garden and Ocoee, is developing very rapidly and a lot of those areas have tributaries that flow into Lake Apopka; therefore, it is critical that they look at it and see what can be done. He stated that, along with the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC), they put together a Steering Committee consisting of an elected official from each of the eight jurisdictions within the basin. He noted that Commr. Pool served as Chairman of that group. He stated that they have had tremendous response from all the jurisdictions - not only from the elected officials, but from the planning staff of each group as well.

Mr. Thomas stated that the Friends of Lake Apopka were able to raise enough money, through a grant from Orange County, to hire a professional planning firm to coordinate the program. He stated that, at the same time, the ECFRPC began to look at conceptual ideas for the whole basin, in terms of greenways and trails. He stated that the end product of the study that was conducted by the Friends of Lake Apopka is the set of Development Design Guidelines before the Board this date. He stated that they were asking the Board to look at those guidelines very carefully, adopt those parts that are applicable to Lake County, and prevent further damage to the lake in the future.

Mr. Thomas stated that one of the most significant parts of the program requests a 50 foot upland buffer, to be maintained in a natural state. He stated that the regulations involving surface water permitting currently requires a minimum buffer of 15 feet and an average buffer of 25 feet, which sounds good, however, noted that they have discovered that there is no enforcement beyond the development stage of the parcel, so the homeowner begins to mow that area and landscape it and it eventually becomes part of the landscape. He stated that they looked at the possibility of making the 50 foot buffer a common area, so that there will be no lakefront lots extending all the way to the lake, which will allow everyone in the development to enjoy the lakefront, without damaging it. He stated that they have asked for restrictions on docking, noting that the accumulative effect of the docks on the lake is major. He stated that they have recommended policy language, in the Executive Summary of the design guidelines, which they hope the County will adapt to its own planning process. He stated that he was informed that the County is working toward including some of the guidelines in a proposed new ordinance and encouraged the Board to do so.

Mr. Thomas stated that, beyond the ideas for buffering the lake, they also included in the guidelines a detailed planning process for dealing with lakefronts, which he noted could be applied to any lake in the County. He stated that they show how to remove exotics from the lake; which exotics should be removed; how to replant a literal zone, so that there is protection to the lake; and how to work with the upland buffer, with native species, so that one does not have to use fertilizers and pesticides. He displayed a map, which he reviewed with the Board, showing areas of Lake Apopka where there are good wetland buffers and areas where there are not. He stated that a lot of the areas have exotics, rather than native species, which are damaging to the lake, because they are mostly tropical and decay in the water during the winter months. He stated that the map indicates what is in place at the present time, what should be left in place, what should be removed, and what should be replaced. He stated that the Friends of Lake Apopka encourage the Board to enforce existing regulations and get existing developments in the area to comply with those regulations as best they can.

Mr. Thomas stated that the next phase is to proceed with the conceptual part of the planning process, which deals with greenways, trails, and economic incentives, such as eco-tourism and recreational opportunities. He stated that these things need to be identified in the basin, before moving forward with any further development. He stated that they have put together a second phase and are now in the process of trying to acquire some funding. He stated that they have asked for support from the Planning Department, noting that they want to come up with a master plan that deals with trails, greenways, eco-tourism opportunities, and recreational opportunities in the whole basin, including the area to be restored - the former farmlands that have great possibilities for eco-tourism. He urged the Board to support the second phase of the process, noting that they have a chance for some matching funds and would like to raise enough money to hire a professional planner to coordinate all the activities going on within the basin. He stated that he hoped to bring that phase before the Board within the year, with a master plan, as to what can be done to give the public access and develop some economic incentives.

Commr. Pool stated that he applauded the Friends of Lake Apopka for their leadership in trying to help bring about some development guidelines, noting that he feels it will benefit everyone if the buffer zones are in place, as well as stormwater management, and retrofitting where one can, as the lake is developed. He stated that he appreciated the cooperation of Orange County, as well as the residents and municipalities involved.

Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, addressed the Board stating that staff has finished a draft of the proposed ordinance dealing with development guidelines and will probably be bringing it before the Board, requesting approval to advertise, February 6, 2001.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS

PUBLIC HEARING

ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER XV, LAKE COUNTY CODE

APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED ROAD AND SCHOOL IMPACT FEES

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 XV, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED ROAD AND SCHOOL IMPACT FEES; CREATING SECTION 15.02.11 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED TRANSFER OF IMPACT FEE CREDITS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE LAKE COUNTY CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Mr. Minkoff stated that the purpose of the Ordinance was to allow a developer who puts improvements in his development over and above the on-sight impacts to be able to obtain impact fee credits and transfer them to other developers within the same road impact fee district. He stated that the only issue that is not addressed in the Ordinance that the Board may wish to address is whether or not to charge an administrative fee for the transfer.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Ms. Cecelia Bonifay, Attorney, Akerman, Senterfitt & Eidson, addressed the Board stating that a member of her firm had attended a Planning and Zoning Commission Workshop regarding this issue and has been working with the County Attorney's staff on the proposed Ordinance for a number of months. She stated that their primary interest was the impact on the Lost Lake Reserve Project. She stated that she felt everything her firm was questioning got addressed at said Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting, without any changes to the Ordinance, therefore, requested that the Minutes of that meeting be made a part of the record, in case a question arises at a later date. She stated that her firm had some questions about the timing and noted that, in some cases, certain references would not apply to the Lost Lake Reserve Project, because they had already entered into a Developer's Agreement with the County, specifically for Johns Lake Road. She stated that they would be coming forward with impact fee credited improvements, with regard to Citrus Tower Boulevard, and perhaps others.

Mr. Minkoff stated that the Ordinance was written to accommodate the prior agreement that the Board approved. He stated that, for the benefit of the new Board members, when the Lost Lake Reserve Project came before the Board, they approved a Developer's Agreement for it, indicating that if, in the future, the Board approved the proposed Ordinance, the Lost Lake Reserve Project would be able to transfer their funds. He stated that the Ordinance is written in such a way as to allow that agreement to automatically go into effect, however, noted that any future project that has not been approved will have to go before the Board for approval.

Ms. Bonifay stated that her firm had questioned the issue of transfer of credits and learned at the Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting that there could only be one transfer of credits. She stated that they also questioned the length of time that would be given to accomplish the transfer and was informed that it should be done in a timely manner. She stated that, with regard to the Lost Lake Reserve Project and the issue of off-site versus on-site improvements, the major road improvements that have been made are not ones that are necessary for that development. She stated that they are allowed to have a two-lane local road, but have agreed to tie into what is more of a county-wide road system, as part of the planning process, with the inclusion of Citrus Tower Boulevard, Johns Lake Road, and perhaps one or more other connector roads, such as Steve's Road, which she noted would off-set the impact on Hwys. 50 and 27. She stated that the City of Clermont would like for the developer to extend beyond his geographic boundaries, in making the improvements; therefore, her firm wanted to make sure they were impact fee eligible. She requested that clarification of off-site versus on-site improvements be included in the proposed Ordinance.

Mr. Minkoff stated that the Ordinance does not impact the issue of off-site versus

on-site improvements, noting that that is another provision of the Impact Fee Ordinance and, when a developer proposes it, the Public Works Department usually deals with it. He stated that the proposed Ordinance will allow a developer, if he has 100 homes worth of impact fees, to transfer each of them to a separate developer, so they could make 100 transfers. He stated that what the Ordinance does not allow is for the subsequent developer to reassign them to another developer, because it would create a record keeping nightmare. He stated that the signee cannot further assign the credits; however, if the developer wanted to assign the credits 100 times, he could do so.

Ms. Bonifay informed the Board that she appreciated the County's help and responsiveness, with regard to this matter, and noted that she would be coming back before them with another Developer's Agreement, regarding the issue of impact fees. She stated that she felt the proposed Ordinance would give the County a lot of flexibility, especially in those areas of high growth, where a lot of impact fees are generated.

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

Mr. Minkoff informed the Board that, if they wanted to preserve the ability to establish a fee, by resolution, his office had language that would create Subsection G, under Section 2 of the Ordinance, stating such, however, noted that said language would have to be added to the Ordinance.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance No. 2001-1, amending Chapter XV, Lake County Code, Appendix E, Land Development Regulations, entitled Road and School Impact Fees; creating Section 15.02.00 of the Land Development Regulations, entitled Transfer of Impact Fee Credits; providing for severability; providing for inclusion in the Lake County Code; providing for an effective date; and providing language creating Subsection G, under Section 2 of the Ordinance, which addresses the issue of creating a fee, by a resolution of the Board of County Commissioners.

CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

Mr. George Hovis, Attorney, addressed the Board stating that he was a member of the Lake County Shoreline Protection Ordinance Committee and that said Committee would like to turn the matter of the Ordinance over to Mr. Allan Hewitt, Water Resource Specialist, Growth Management Department, for handling, on a temporary basis, due to the fact that the Committee was not able to come to a consensus, regarding the proposed ordinance. He stated that the Committee had a difference of opinion on the issue of mechanical harvesting.

Ms. Elaine Reddick, Chairman, Lake County Shoreline Protection Ordinance Committee, addressed the Board stating that the Committee gave Mr. Hewitt a rough draft of the proposed Ordinance. She stated that the Committee got to the point where they were just spinning their wheels over the issue of mechanical harvesting, thus, their reason for wanting Mr. Hewitt to take it over.

Mr. Roy Hunter, a member of the Northeast Lake Chamber of Commerce, addressed the Board and suggested that the Committee draft a mirror image of the State's Shoreline Protection Ordinance.

It was noted that staff would be bringing the proposed ordinance back to the Board with some recommendations, at a later date.

Ms. Nancy Fullerton, Lake County Save Our Lakes Committee, addressed the Board stating that, because of the drought and low water levels that the County is currently experiencing, the Save Our Lakes Committee is requesting that the Board declare a water shortage, set stricter irrigation regulations and enforcement, and increase conservation education. She stated, however, that the main thing they are requesting is that the District consider a moratorium on new consumptive use permits. She stated that the Committee feels the County and the State need to coordinate their efforts in protecting the water resources, by changing the sequence of the development review process, noting that it was her understanding that the District does not get involved in the DRI or PUD process until late in the process and that the availability of water and whether they are going to issue a consumptive use permit is not addressed. She stated that the Committee is asking the Board to look at that issue during the development review process.

Mr. Mark Venzke, a resident of Lake County, addressed the Board and discussed some ideas he had about the Lake Apopka Development Design Guidelines, presented to the Board earlier in the meeting. He displayed and reviewed two drawings that he had done, indicating said ideas, which he submitted, for the record.

COUNTY MANAGER'S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

COMMITTEES/FIRE AND RESCUE ADVISORY BOARD/ORDINANCES

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, explained this request, stating that it was a request to advertise an ordinance that would disband the Fire and Rescue Advisory Board, which was adopted, pursuant to Ordinance No. 1996-3, and that the Lake County Code provisions relating thereto be repealed. She stated that the reason for doing so is due to the fact that said Board completed the assignments given to it by the Board of County Commissioners approximately three years ago and have not met since then. She stated that there does not seem to be a reason to continue with said Board.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Emergency Services for approval to advertise that, due to the completion of its assignment, the Lake County Fire and Rescue Advisory Board will be disbanded, per Ordinance No.1996-3, and that the Lake County Code provisions relating thereto will be repealed. The Ordinance will repeal Lake County Code, Chapter 2, Article IV, Division 5.

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/BIDS/PUBLIC WORKS/ROAD PROJECTS

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that it was a request for authorization to bid for countywide resurfacing and restriping for FY 2001, at an estimated cost of $692,145.83. He referred to the Board's backup material regarding this request, which he reviewed with the Board, noting that it shows what has been occurring in each Commissioner's district, with regard to the Countywide Resurfacing and Restriping Program. He stated that the targeted needs for FY 2000/2001 amounts to $2,024,423.68, however, the current budget for same is $692,145.83. He indicated which roads were being resurfaced and which ones were being restriped only, with no resurfacing involved. He stated that, if the County were to maintain $2 million a year in the budget for resurfacing/restriping, it would take 25 years to resurface every road in the County. He stated that the life expectancy of pavement is 15 to 25 years, so the County is in the tail end of the life expectancy for many of the roads.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for authorization to advertise for bids for Countywide Resurfacing and Restriping Project No. 2001-07, at an estimated cost of $692,145.83, from the Transportation Trust Fund.

ACCOUNTS ALLOWED/BUILDING DEPARTMENT

GROWTH MANAGEMENT

Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that staff was requesting authorization to transfer dollars from the Contingency Account to Permitting, to cover all the permits for the individual homesites for the Astor Park Wastewater Project. She stated that one of the costs that the Astor Park Wastewater Association did not think through and budget for was the individual permits - the individual site inspections. She stated that staff is requesting that the County continue its part in such a worthwhile project.

Commr. Stivender stated that she felt the project was a great one, however, questioned why the County needed another building inspector for said project.

Ms. Farrell stated that staff's current work load is ahead of the staffing levels that the County has for inspections; therefore, the Growth Management Department does not have an extra inspector to dedicate to electrical and plumbing inspections for the project for the next year.

Commr. Stivender questioned where the additional inspector would be utilized, once the Astor Park Wastewater Project is completed.

Ms. Farrell stated that there are usually one or two vacancies in the Growth Management Department; therefore, she would shut that position down, once the last permit is issued, and not fill a vacancy for that position at the end of the year.

Commr. Stivender questioned whether it would not be more economical to hire an outside inspector to handle the wastewater project.

Ms. Farrell stated that staff had looked into it and found that it would not be more economical to do so.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Growth Management for authorization for $75,000.00 to be taken from the Contingency Account, for permits; and authorization to hire an additional building inspector. It was noted that the increase anticipated the Board's contribution of funding the Astor Park Wastewater Project, to assist with the costs of permitting and inspection fees.

PUBLIC WORKS/REPORTS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board and discussed the issue of non-maintained dirt roads in the County, stating that, in August of 1999, staff was asked to re-evaluate the original list of non-maintained dirt roads in the County that would qualify for special assessments and see where they are today, as well as to identify the neighborhood collector roads and what the cost would be to build and maintain them. He stated that, during the review process, staff found that, in June of 2000, the County was involved with the claying of several of the roads. He reviewed a list that staff prepared, indicating what they found, what they inventoried, and where the County should go from this point. He stated that there are 19.14 miles of neighborhood collector roads and it is estimated that the cost to clay said roads would be $1,370,160.00, with an estimated yearly maintenance cost of $74,340.00. He stated that, to pave said roads would cost approximately $6,522,912.00, with an estimated yearly maintenance cost of $29,571.00. He stated that there is a total of 105.91 miles of non-maintained dirt roads, and it is estimated that the cost to clay those roads would be $6,981,902.00, and to pave them would be $32,608,224.00.

It was the consensus of the Board for each Commissioner to sit down with the Public Works staff, prioritize the list, and then have staff bring back a more realistic list, for further discussion, at a later date.

OTHER BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED COORDINATING BOARD

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed individuals to the Lake County Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board, as follows:

Childhood Development Services Representative

Ms. Patty Spallone

Lake County Schools Representative

Mr. Phil Lucas

Lake County Schools Alternate Representative

Ms. Judy Stiefl

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS

COMMITTEES

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously,

by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed individuals to the Lake County Board of Adjustments, as

follows:

District 1

Ms. Barbara Newman (Reappointed)

District 3

Mr. Henry Wolsmann

District 5

Ms. Mary Bennett (Reappointed)

APPOINTMENTS-RESIGNATIONS/COMMITTEES

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by

a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed individuals to the Lake County Planning and Zoning

Commission, representing District 1, as follows:

District 1

Mr. Timothy Morris

Ms. Pamela Murray

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried

unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed individuals to the Lake County Planning

and Zoning Commission, representing District 3, as follows:

District 3

Mr. Michael Carey (Reappointed)

Mr. James Gardner

It was noted that Commr. Cadwell would make his appointments to the Lake County Planning and Zoning Commission, representing District 5, at a later date.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS/TAX COLLECTOR

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained this request, stating that it was a request from Mr. Bob McKee, Lake County Tax Collector, for approval of an amendment to the lease for the Tax Collector's Office located in Lady Lake, noting that he needed some additional space at said office, for storage. He stated that Mr. McKee has negotiated an agreement with The Villages, where they have agreed to give him said space at no additional cost. He stated that it would just be an amendment to his lease, to include said space. He stated that it will give the Tax Collector an additional 1,160 square feet of needed space.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney, on behalf of Mr. Bob McKee, Lake County Tax Collector, for approval of an amendment to the lease for the Tax Collector's Office, located at The Villages, in Lady Lake, for an additional 1,160 square feet of space, to be utilized for storage, at no additional cost.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

MEETINGS/SOLID WASTE/SUITS AGAINST THE COUNTY

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained this request, stating that the Florida Statues provide a procedure where the Board can meet privately to discuss ongoing litigation, however, noted that said meeting had to be initiated by a request from him and that he would like to do so, utilizing one of the Board Meetings scheduled for February to discuss the Ogden Martin issue. He stated that the meeting will be a closed session, however, noted that a court reporter will be present to record the proceedings. He stated that the Board will not be able to make any decisions, they will only be able to discuss strategy and what is ongoing, involving the case.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

COMMITTEES/MEETINGS

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that Thursday, January 11, 2001, his office is conducting an educational seminar for members of the County's appointed Boards, as well as City Boards and Committees. He stated that approximately 100 people have signed up to attend the seminar.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER

COMMISSIONERS/MEETINGS

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that she had received information about an Annual Growth Management Short Course, which is being held in Orlando February 20-21, 2001, therefore, questioned whether the Board would like to cancel the Board Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 20, 2001, to allow those Commissioners who would like to attend the Short Course to do so. She stated that she could split items scheduled for the February 20^th Board Meeting between the Board Meetings scheduled for February 13^th and February 27^th.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a change in the February schedule for Board Meetings, eliminating the February 20^th Board of County Commissioners Meeting and splitting items scheduled to be heard on said date between the February 13^th and the February 27^th Board of County Commissioners Meetings, to allow those Commissioners who would like to do so to attend an Annual Growth Management Short Course, which is being held in Orlando February 20-21, 2001.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

MEETINGS/SOLID WASTE/SUITS AGAINST THE COUNTY (CONT'D.)

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request by the County Attorney to set a closed meeting date, to discuss the Ogden Martin issue, for February 13, 2001.

REPORTS

COUNTY MANAGER

MEETINGS/MISCELLANEOUS

Ms. Sue Whittle, County Manager, informed the Board that the County will be holding a session of the Citizen's Academy on Thursday, January 11, 2001, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the Training Room (Room 233), on the second floor of the Administration Building.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - DISTRICT 2

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Commr. Pool informed the Board that he would like to thank the Lake County firefighters for all they have done recently in the County, with regard to the wild fires, noting that he feels they have done a fine job. He thanked the Forestry Service for their help as well.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - DISTRICT 2

MISCELLANEOUS

Commr. Pool informed the Board that he would like to congratulate the East Lake County Chamber of Commerce and Ms. Betty Ann Christian for the very nice banquet they held at Ferran's Restaurant, in Eustis, on Monday, January 8, 2001.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - DISTRICT 2

LAKE COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY/WATER RESOURCES

Commr. Pool brought up for discussion the issue of whether citizens of the County would need permission or a permit to clean out canals in the County, during times of low water levels, when they see something that would be an obstruction during high water levels.

The County Attorney stated that he did not think a permit would be needed to do so..

Commr. Pool suggested that the County contact the Lake County Water Authority and request their help in cleaning out the canals in the County.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER STIVENDER - DISTRICT 3

ORDINANCES

Commr. Stivender brought up for discussion the issue of revising the County's Landscape Ordinance, to help with water conservation, brought to the Board's attention at the December 12, 2000 Board of County Commissioner's Meeting by Commr. Pool, and questioned whether staff had started working on it.

It was noted that staff would address the issue in the near future.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER STIVENDER - DISTRICT 3

MUNICIPALITIES

Commr. Stivender informed the Board that she would like to have them address, possibly at the next Fiscal Retreat, the issue of redevelopment for downtown Tavares, since the County's buildings take up a large majority of the City and the City is in the process of redeveloping the downtown area. She stated that she would bring information regarding the matter to the Fiscal Retreat.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER STIVENDER - DISTRICT 3

PUBLIC WORKS/ROAD PROJECTS/ROADS-COUNTY AND STATE

Commr. Stivender informed the Board that she has been working on the issue of that portion of Lakeshore Drive between Tavares and Mt. Dora and that she and Mr. Jim Stivender, Senior Director, Public Works, had met with some of the residents in the area, to try to allay their concerns. She stated that the Public Works Department is planning to do a test strip, to show the residents that the County is not going to be removing some trees that they are concerned about, it is just trying to make Lakeshore Drive a safer road.

REPORTS