A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

FEBRUARY 19, 2002

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 19, 2002, 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: Robert A. Pool, Chairman; Welton G. Cadwell, Vice Chairman; Debbie Stivender; Jennifer Hill; and Catherine C. Hanson. Others present were: Sanford A. (Sandy) Minkoff, County Attorney; Bill Neron, County Manager; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, Board of County Commissioner's Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

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

AGENDA UPDATE

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that Tab 30, under the County Manager's Departmental Business, a request for approval of the Highway Safety Concept Paper for Bus Wrap Traffic Safety Campaign, informing the public of the dangers of speeding, drinking and driving, red light running, non-buckling up, and other traffic safety issues, was being pulled, noting that it was an item that did not need to come before the Board for approval. He stated that there was an Addendum No. 1 to the Agenda, as well, with several items on it.

MINUTES

Regarding the Minutes of January 15, 2002, the following change was requested:

On Page 4, Line 26, change City of Leesburg to City of Tavares.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of January 15, 2002 (Regular Meeting), as corrected.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of January 29, 2002 (Regular Meeting), as presented.

CLERK OF COURTS' CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson 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.



Municipalities/Ordinances



Request to acknowledge receipt of Ordinance Nos. 2001-45, 2001-46, 2001-47, 2001-49, 2001-50, 2001-51, and 2001-53, from the Town of Lady Lake, Florida.



Municipalities/Ordinances



Request to acknowledge receipt of Ordinance No. 2001-009, from the City of Fruitland Park, providing for the annexation of property generally located on the west side of U.S. Highway 441, southwest of Eagles Nest Road, known as the Gamble Property. Passed and ordained the 24th day of January, 2002, by the City Commission of the City of Fruitland Park, Florida.



Annexations/Municipalities



Request to acknowledge receipt of legal descriptions of City of Groveland Annexations (507/3) that took place during 2001, from the Land Planning Group (LPG), Urban and Regional Planners, Inc.



Utilities



Request to acknowledge receipt of Notice before the Florida Public Service Commission - Notice of Hearing and Prehearing Conference to Florida Power Corporation, Florida Industrial Power Users Group, Office of Public Counsel, Florida Retail Federation, Walt Disney World Co., Buddy L. Hansen, Sugarmill Woods Civic Association, Inc., Publix Super Markets, Inc., and All Other Interested Parties, Re: Review of Florida Power Corporation's Earnings, Including Effects of Proposed Acquisition of Florida Power Corporation by Carolina Power & Light, Docket No. 000824-EI.



Prehearing Conference - 1:30 p.m. EST, Monday, March 4, 2002. Hearing - 9:30 a.m. EST, Wednesday, March 20, 2002, through Friday, March 22, 2002, and Wednesday, March 27, 2002, through March 28, 2002. Both hearings will be held in Room 148, Betty Easley Conference Center, 4075 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee, Florida.



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA

Commr. Pool requested that Tab 15, a request from Growth Management for approval to advertise amendments to Chapter 6 of the Lake County Code, Building and Construction, to add irrigation/sprinkler contractor licensing requirements, be pulled for discussion.

Commr. Hanson questioned whether the lot alluded to in Tab 5, a request from Economic Development for approval to declare surplus and award the sale to the highest and best bidder on a vacant lot (Alternate Key No. 1791782 - 28827 Hubbard Street, Leesburg) acquired through the Code Enforcement Lien process, might be available for the Affordable Housing Program.

Ms. Ava Kronz, Director of Continuous Quality Improvement, addressed the Board stating that staff could look into the matter. She stated that the County had some interest on the part of the neighbors, thus, the reason for bringing it before the Board.

Commr. Hanson requested that Tab 5 be pulled from the Consent Agenda at this time and that, with regard to Tab 16, a request from Growth Management for approval of an Interlocal Agreement between the St. Johns River Water Management District and Lake County to develop a Lake County Water Resource Atlas, that staff make sure it is linked to the County's web site, once it has been approved by the Board.

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

Accounts Allowed/Community Services/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Grants

Municipalities



Request from Community Services for approval of Amendment to Agreement with the City of Mt. Dora for Annual Grant Funding, in the amount of $6,250.00, for their After School Program.



Accounts Allowed/Community Services/Contracts, Leases and Agreements

Request from Community Services for approval of Agreement Between Lake County and LifeStream Behavioral Center for Provision of Transportation for Baker Act Clients, in the amount of $12,500.00.



Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Economic Development



Request from Economic Development for approval of Agreement to award Jobs Growth Investment Trust Funds to Sunstate Carriers, Inc., in the amount of $122,000.00, for the creation of 61 positions, paying at least 110% of the Average Annual Hourly Wage for Lake County, or at least $12.78 per hour.



Accounts Allowed/Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Economic Development



Request from Economic Development for approval of Agreement to award Jobs Growth Investment Trust Funds to Florida Casework, Inc., in the amount of $24,000.00, for the creation of 12 positions, paying at least 110% of the Average Annual Hourly Wage for Lake County, or at least $12.78 per hour.



Accounts Allowed/Budgets/Budget Transfers/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Budget/Impact Fees/Resolutions

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



Budget transfer from Salaries, in the amount of $230,000.00, to Emergency Services, Machinery and Equipment. The NFPA 1981 Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for the Fire Service has undergone significant changes. This new standard is an unfunded mandate placed on fire departments by NFPA and OSHA. Funds are needed to purchase Scott Airpaks, to bring the department into compliance with the mandate. Funds are available from Salaries for six positions budgeted for Station 52. Station 52 will not be opened until February, 2003.



Budget transfer from Machinery and Equipment, in the amount of $42,665.00, to Emergency Services, Machinery and Equipment; and from Machinery and Equipment, in the amount of $134,121.00, to Emergency Services, Machinery and Equipment (total amount $176,786.00). The NFPA 1981 Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for the Fire Service has undergone significant changes. This new standard is an unfunded mandate placed on fire departments by NFPA and OSHA. Funds are needed to purchase Scott Airpaks, to bring the department into compliance with the mandate. Funds are available from monies budgeted for woods truck construction, an integrated database, tanker replacement, and a staff vehicle.



Resolution No. 2002-25, amending the General Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2001/2002, in the amount of $11,000.00, from Surplus Furniture/Fixture/Equipment Sales, for sale of voting equipment, and to provide appropriations for the disbursement of office supplies.



Impact Fee Refund request to David E. Webb, Jr., c/o David Elliot, in the amount of $907.00, due to Building Services error. Credit was not given for mobile home existing on property when permit fees were calculated.



Impact Fee Refund request to Sharon Jackson, in the amount of $1,889.57, due to impact fee waiver. Recipient purchased new home that had already been permitted and full fees paid.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Geographic Information Systems/Municipalities



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for approval of Interlocal Agreement with the City of Tavares, relating to the creation, distribution, and sharing of geographic information, which formalizes the cooperation and sharing of data and resources between the named municipality and Lake County GIS.



Accounts Allowed/Bids/Contracts, Leases and Agreements

Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for approval and authorization to award RFP No. 02-044; encumber funds; and authorize continuing contracts, subject to County Attorney approval, to BCI Engineers & Scientists, Inc. and Professional Engineering Consultants, Inc., to provide stormwater engineering services, in the amount of $300,000.00.



Accounts Allowed/Bids/Contracts, Leases and Agreements

Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for approval and authorization to award RFP No. 01-113; encumber funds; and authorize a contract, subject to County Attorney approval, to RMTS, to provide stop loss insurance to the County, in the amount of $250,000.00.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for approval and authorization to amend Contract No. 01-035, to conduct project design and engineering assistance through the construction phase of five priority stormwater management projects in the Lake Griffin watershed.



Accounts Allowed/Bids/Contracts, Leases and Agreements

Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for approval and authorization to award Bid No. 02-022, Chilled Water Pipe and A/C Unit Replacement; encumber funds, in the amount of $687,000.00; and authorize a contract, subject to County Attorney approval, to Lake Mechanical Contractors, Inc.



Accounts Allowed/Fiscal and Administrative Services - Risk Management



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Risk Management for approval of an offer to settle Alvin C. Veach's claim for property damage, in the amount of $504.30, subject to County Attorney review and approval.



Contracts, Leases and Agreements/Growth Management/State Agencies



Request from Growth Management for approval of an Interlocal Agreement between the St. Johns River Water Management District and Lake County, to develop a Lake County Water Resource Atlas, with a contribution of $10,000.00 for Fiscal Year 2002.



Accounts Allowed/Impact Fees/Public Works/Roads-County and State/Road Projects



Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to award Silver Lake Drive (1-5229)Widening and Resurfacing Project No. 2002-06 to Art Walker Construction, Inc., in the amount of $244,927.40; and to encumber and expend $244,927.40 from the Impact Fee Fund. Commissioner District 1, Benefit District 3.



Accounts Allowed/Public Works/Roads-County and State/Road Projects



Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to execute Change Order No. 1, in the amount of $56,130.37, for additional intersection improvements, relating to CR 437 (North) Widening and Resurfacing Project No. 2001-18.



Growth Management/Public Works



Request from Public Works for permission to advertise a change in Land Development Regulations 9.07.05, Basis for Establishing Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA's), to reflect the adoption of new countywide Federal Emergency Management Agency Flood Insurance Rate Map panels.



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



Request from Public Works for approval to accept Drainage Easement Deeds; a Non-Exclusive Easement Deed; a Perpetual Easement; a Statutory Quitclaim Deed; Statutory Warranty Deeds; and a Temporary Non-Exclusive Easement Deed, as follows:



Drainage Easement



James H. Mayfield and Joan Mayfield Kirby

C 25



Thomas and Joane Fileman

Sunset Drive (3-4161)



Non-Exclusive Easement Deed



Highland Grove, Ltd., a Florida Ltd. Corporation

and Highland Grove Partnership

Road Access



Perpetual Easement



State of Florida, DOT



Statutory Quitclaim Deed



Albert and Muriel Dignan

Fonseca Lane



Statutory Warranty Deed



Fidelity Properties Group, LLC

Glenbrook Entrance



James H. Mayfield and Joan Mayfield Kirby

C 25



James H. Mayfield and Joan Mayfield Kirby

C 25



James H. Mayfield, Trustee

C 25



James H. Mayfield and Joan Mayfield Kirby

C 25



Barnett and Marcia Hatchett

Eagles Nest Road (1-6611)



Thomas and Emma Rathbun

Old CR 50



Travis and Cathy Stiles

Old CR 50



Temporary Non-Exclusive Easement Deed



James H. Mayfield and Joan Mayfield Kirby

C 25





Public Works/Subdivisions



Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Via Gran subdivision. Subdivision consists of three lots - Commission District 4.



Public Works/Subdivisions



Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Estates at Lake Susan subdivision. Subdivision consists of 11 lots - Commission District 2.

Public Works/Resolutions



Request from Public Works for approval of Resolution No. 2002-27, advertising Vacation Petition No. 978, for L. J. Norman, to vacate road and cease maintenance on Dudeck Road

(4-4483), in Section 27, Township 19 South, Range 27 East, in the Mt. Dora/Sorrento area - Commission District 4.



Landfills/Solid Waste Management



Request from Solid Waste Management for approval and authorization for the County Manager to approve the use of the closed Lady Lake Landfill for recreational use by the Southern Eagle Squadron, a model airplane club.



ADDENDUM NO. 1



COUNTY MANAGER'S CONSENT AGENDA (CONT'D.)



Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services/Accounts Allowed

Bids/Libraries



Request from Fiscal and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for authorization to award Bid Request No.02-041, Astor Library Site, at Astor Recreational Park, to Genesis Construction and Management, Inc.; encumber funds; and authorize the signature of the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, in the amount of $61,238.00.



Accounts Allowed/Tourism



Request from Tourism for approval, subject to legal sign off, of the recommendation of the Tourist Development Council to fund up to $40,000.00, as part of the sponsorship fee for a Bass Master Tournament on the Harris Chain of Lakes, in Leesburg, in January of 2003.



PRESENTATION

ELDER READY STUDY COMMITTEE FINAL REPORT

Ms. Carol Clendinen, Co-Chairman of the Elder Ready Study Committee, addressed the Board to present the Final Report of the Elder Ready Study Committee. She stated that she was very proud to work with such a committed and dedicated group of people and wanted to acknowledge their effort and hard work, at which time she introduced the committee members to those present. She stated that Mr. Fletcher Smith, Senior Director, Community Services, and Ms. Robbie Hollenbeck, Special Projects Coordinator, Community Services, did an outstanding job in supplying the committee with information they needed, in a timely manner. She presented the committee's final report, stating that, currently, Lake County's senior residents over the age of 55 comprise 81,232 people, or 38.5% of the total population, with 26.40%, which is 55,613, being over the age of 65. She stated that this unique segment of the population is expected to increase with the continued in-migration of retirees, increasing years of life expectancy, and "baby boomers", who are fast approaching senior citizen status. She stated that there are clearly several distinct segments of the population - those with adequate financial means to provide for their ongoing needs, and those with very limited means. She stated that the 1990 census reflected 8% of Lake County's residents over the age of 65 were living at or below poverty level. She stated that, while income data by specific age bracket has not been released by the 2000 census, application of the same 8% rate to the current elder population over the age of 65 would suggest that approximately 4,448 elderly residents live in poverty in Lake County. She stated that the Elder Ready Community initiative began in July of 2000, with a $15,000.00 grant from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, which was used to contract with the Florida Institute of Government at the University of Central Florida, to start the process of identifying issues, services, and gaps in service. She stated that, beginning in October of 2000, eight community forums were held throughout Lake County, to hear input from the citizens relative to their perceived needs and concerns. She stated that, in addition, five symposia were held, which involved key agencies and community leaders and engaged them to establish a vision and develop a broad strategic plan.

Ms. Clendinen stated that, as a result of this preliminary effort, the Board of County Commissioners established the Elder Ready Study Committee, by Resolution, on April 3, 2001, and appointed ten members (two per district) to study the issues identified in the report and develop recommendations to the Board, as to the most effective methods for increasing awareness of elder issues and coordinating and delivering of elder services. She stated that the Elder Ready Study Committee first met on June 11, 2001, and has continued to meet on a bi-weekly basis since then, learning about the various services currently available to the County's seniors and developing an understanding of the problems faced by its elders. She stated that overviews of current services have been provided by Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging, Mid-Florida Community Services, United Way of Lake/Sumter, Christian Social Services, Lake County Sheriff's Department, and others. She stated that the members have reviewed information from many other sources, such as the National Council on Aging and the Comprehensive Health Care Committee, has compared services of other counties in the service area, and has visited churches, service agencies, and senior meal sites. She stated that, in their study of all the information available, the testimony provided by numerous service agencies, and the results of the original strategic planning conducted by the Florida Institute of Government, the Elder Ready Study Committee was making its recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. She stated that the problems faced by the County's elderly population are many and varied and often directly relational to financial means, yet, even though the County recognizes that its service resources are limited and strained to capacity, improvements could be made through a committed and coordinated effort, which brings the stakeholders into the process, to work together for the benefit of the County's seniors. She stated that the Elder Ready Study Committee was recommending the following:

Ms. Clendinen stated that the cost of implementing said recommendations are those associated with the development of an office with full-time staff, to assist the new Elder Affairs Coordinating Council in meeting their goals. She stated that start-up costs for the first year include the purchase of office equipment and supplies necessary to establish an office which would support staffing function. She reviewed the budget needed for the remainder of the current year and FY 2003 (10/1/02 to 9/30/03), as follows:

BUDGET ITEM FY 2001/2002 FY 2002/2003

Personnel Cost $36,990.00 $65,082.00

Operating Cost $ 5,110.00 $ 8,660.00

Machinery & Equipment $ 1,400.00 $ - 0 -



Total Cost $43,500.00 $73,742.00



Commr. Hanson stated that, originally, $75,000.00 was allotted in the budget for this purpose, however, noted that it now only contains $36,990.00, because it was cut when the Board realized the committee would only be in operation, assuming they voted in favor of the request, for half a year.

Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board needs to direct staff to bring back a Resolution establishing the Elder Affairs Coordinating Council, however, noted that they need to have some type of presentation regarding a budget for said committee, because they need to see how this request is going to fit into a department that is already strapped for dollars.

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that he would like to work with Mr. Smith, Senior Director, Community Services, and his staff, to try to find a way to implement the direction of the Board.

Commr. Hanson interjected that, in the meantime, staff could be directed to go ahead with the Resolution establishing the Elder Affairs Coordinating Council. She stated that there is a lot of potential for volunteer efforts in the County, without it costing a lot of money, but feels the County needs a person, whatever the cost, to head up those efforts.

Mr. Neron stated that he had seen an article where Alachua County hired an individual to be an advocate for a lot of different needs - children, families, elderly, etc., which they combined into one position. He stated that he felt it was a good idea, therefore, requested Mr. Smith to explore it, to see if it was something the County might want to approach.

Commr. Pool thanked Ms. Clendinen for the Elder Ready Study Committee's Report, noting that he felt it was a very good one and he appreciated all the information that was given. On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board directed staff to develop a Resolution establishing an Elder Ready Advisory Committee and to come back with some type of plan for community services.

Commr. Hanson reminded the Board that the County's volunteer program was started with a volunteer, who performed said duties for several years.

PRESENTATION

SITE MANAGEMENT PLAN BY PALATLAKAHA ENVIRONMENTAL AND AGRICULTURAL RESERVE (PEAR) COMMITTEE

Mr. Bob Stevens, Parks and Recreation Director, addressed the Board stating that staff has been working for approximately one year developing the Site Management Plan, as a basis for the requirement in the lease with the State, for the PEAR site.

Mr. Shawn Parks, Chairman, Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Committee, addressed the Board and presented the Conceptual Master Plan for the Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve Park, for the Board's approval and submittal to the State. He stated that the vision the committee developed for the PEAR park site was broken down into four elements, being: Conservation, Restoration, Recreation, and Education, which they feel paralleled the vision that their predecessor had, the PEAR Corporation, who worked for so many years to get an idea of what they wanted to have on the site. He reviewed the plan with the Board, noting that the proposed park is located on Hwy. 27, in the vicinity of Ridgecrest, Legacy, and The Plantation subdivisions. He stated that the park will contain a Scrub-Sandhill Restoration Area, River Trail, Group Camping Area, Group Pavilions, Multi-Use Trail, Fishing Pond, Dog Park, Canoe Launch, Gardens, Nursery and Vineyards, Mountain Bike Challenge Course; Multi-Purpose Area for sports, special events, etc., as well as Restored Herbaceous Wetlands.

At this time, Commr. Pool asked that Mr. Parks' presentation be interrupted for a brief ceremony, due to the fact that the individual being honored had a personal matter to attend to and was going to have to leave the meeting.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

PRESENTATION

RESOLUTION EXPRESSING APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE TO BARBARA LIGHTNER FOR HER CONTRIBUTIONS TO COMMUNITY

Commr. Hanson presented a Resolution to Ms. Barbara Lightner, who was retiring from Joining Hands, Inc. of Florida, expressing appreciation and gratitude for her contributions to the community through said organization. She then read into the record a letter from Senator Anna Cowin to Ms. Lightner, thanking her for her leadership and service to Joining Hands, Inc. of Florida, noting that her dedication and love to terminally ill children and to the elderly in nursing homes was appreciated by many.

PRESENTATION

SITE MANAGEMENT PLAN BY PALATLAKAHA ENVIRONMENTAL AND AGRICULTURAL RESERVE (PEAR) COMMITTEE (CONT'D.)

Ms. Kathy Benton addressed the Board stating that she felt the Conceptual Master Plan for the Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve Park was an amazing document, noting that it was put together within eight months by the PEAR Advisory Committee. She applauded Mr. Shawn Parks, Chairman of the PEAR Committee, Ms. Nadine Foley, and the rest of the committee for producing it. She stated that it comes on the heels of three years of effort by the PEAR Advisory Committee, for the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District, which she noted was the organization that spearheaded the effort. She stated that they got involved in legislative budget negotiations, to get money for the university, in order for them to give up their claim to the land. She encouraged the Board to approve the plan, including the proposed budget, noting that she feels the Department of Environmental Protection will look favorably upon the fact that the Board is willing to commit funds to go forward with the plan. She stated that it was her understanding that money is now available, due to the extension of the one cent sales tax, and noted that volunteers are waiting in the wings, to start working on the park.

Mr. Gary Salzman, President, Plantation at Leesburg, a community that is contiguous to the proposed park, and President of the PEAR Corporation, the volunteer group that is going to be doing a lot of the volunteer improvements at the park, addressed the Board stating that he was present this date representing Plantation at Leesburg exclusively. He read a letter into the record, from the Plantation Residents Organization, Inc., representing the approximately 3,000 homeowners that reside in the Plantation at Leesburg subdivision, regarding the PEAR park and the fact that a Mountain Bike Challenge Course is proposed for the park. He stated that the residents are opposed to the course, because they consider it to be inconsistent with the conservation, education, restoration, and other recreational aspects that are planned for the park and request that it be removed from the plan at this time. He stated that he attended all but one of the PEAR Advisory Committee meetings and the only time the Mountain Bike Challenge Course came up was at the very last meeting that was held and there was no negligible discussion from any committee member concerning the course at that time; therefore, they feel that, until there is greater clarification, in writing, as to what the course will involve, any decision regarding whether or not there should be such a course in the park should be deferred, by taking it out of the plan and, once it is clarified, it can be put back into the plan as an amendment at some future date.

Commr. Cadwell questioned how the Mountain Bike Challenge Course got put into the plan.

Mr. Parks stated that it was his understanding that such a course had always been planned to be incorporated into the park, in some form or another.

Mr. Salzman interjected that, in the plan, this project is listed as a partnership project, where there would not be such an activity, unless there was a partnership. He stated that he discovered what a Mountain Bike Challenge Course was by checking out the Internet and discovered that it is a national/international organization for bikers, with all sorts of trails, activities, challenges, and races. He stated that it is not what the Plantation at Leesburg residents wish to see in the park, noting that it is inconsistent with everything else that is planned for the park.

Mr. Stevens readdressed the Board stating that the Mountain Bike Challenge Course was an idea that came up in the visioning session that was held with the committee. He stated that it came up originally as a BMX track that was approved during the planning session; however, it was never considered to be a priority project for the park. He stated that the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board encouraged the PEAR Advisory Committee to put a skating park, or roller hockey rink in the plan, so the committee changed it to a skate/bike park temporarily, but, it did not go over very well. He stated that he did not know exactly where the Mountain Bike Challenge Course came from, however, noted that it was never intended to be a competitive type situation, just a course that they hoped would keep mountain bikers away from the river trail section of the park, which staff is concerned about having control over.

Commr. Hanson stated that she would recommend not having it in the plan at this time, because she feels it may cause controversy. She stated that she was afraid it could be the focus of the whole plan and she feels the plan is a very good one. She stated that the issue of the Mountain Bike Challenge Course could be resolved later.

Commr. Hill questioned whether the costs involved included staff, or whether it just covered maintenance, noting that it comes out to approximately $4 million over a six year period.

Mr. Stevens stated that the cost included staff.

Commr. Hill stated that she saw where the Board directed staff to look at the Sugarloaf Mountain area and, due to the fact that the Lake Louisa State Park is just below it, questioned whether the County was looking at a master plan countywide.

Mr. Stevens stated that the site in question involves a very unique situation, noting that it was never intended as an active recreational site, but one of conservation and restoration and taking advantage of the nicest section of the Palatlakaha River and preserving it for the public.

Commr. Hill clarified that, in the master plan, this site involves something totally different than what the County would do at the other sites. She then questioned whether the County would be legally bound to construct the park, if it sends the master plan to the State.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the County would not be legally bound to construct the park, however, noted that it does have certain terms in the lease that requires it to do the plan and, ultimately, if the County does not fulfill the plan, it might end up losing the lease.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether the figures listed under Operation and Maintenance of the park were realistic.

Mr. Stevens stated that it was staff's best estimate. He stated that they feel there needs to be one full-time person at the park, from a site maintenance and supervisory aspect.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he intended to endorse the project, however, noted that the Board needed to realize that, once they approved the plan for this park, it was going to be demanded in other areas and there is a pretty good price tag to expanding Parks and Recreation. He questioned whether the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee reviewed the proposed plan and was informed that they had and recommended that it be forwarded to the Board for approval.

Commr. Hanson stated that she saw a potential for having a nursery that the Public Works Department could use for landscaping purposes for the County.

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that he feels there are a lot of good things that can be done with the property in question in a coordinated fashion. He stated that staff feels strongly that they are going to need to come up with a master plan for parks and other county facilities and, along with it, a funding program tied into impact fees and the local option sales tax, not only from the development side, but the operation and maintenance side, as well, once the facilities are built. He stated that the easy part is the construction of the facility, it is finding those ongoing dollars for the operation and maintenance that is going to be the real challenge.

Commr. Stivender stated that she was at the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting, because she is the liaison commissioner for said committee, and there was a lot of discussion about the issue of maintaining the park. She stated that they recommended approval of the plan, because it is part of the agreement, in order to go forward, however, noted that several members of the committee were very adamant about making sure the County would maintain the park. She stated that they felt the overall plan needed to be looked at and how much was actually going to be spent over the next six years and they wanted to make sure all the entities around it were involved - the Plantation at Leesburg, the schools, etc., so that it is not just a matter of the County putting a park some place. She stated that they want the dollars looked at very wisely.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether the PEAR Advisory Committee was going to be a unique committee that would be over just the one park, or whether this park would fall under the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, as all the other parks have.

Mr. Stevens stated that it should fall under the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he had been hesitant about this matter, because of the total park picture, however, feels it is an opportunity the County cannot pass up. He stated that he feels it is a good plan, short of the Mountain Bike Challenge Course, and, if that part of the plan is removed, the Board will move forward with it.

Commr. Pool stated that it has been the Board's goal and commitment to try to do better for the citizens of Lake County and he feels the proposed park is a good example of that. He stated that he feels it is a piece of property the County cannot pass up. He stated that there are expenses involved, but feels the end result will be something that everyone will be proud of and that the Board will look back upon and say was the right decision for Lake County.

Commr. Hanson stated that, as the County moves forward with its strategic plan, it needs to look at other areas that may have similar needs, such as Northeast Lake County and East Lake County.

Commr. Stivender informed the Board that the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee made it very clear at their last meeting that they did not want existing programs in the County to be affected by what the County is doing with this park.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to send the Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve Site Management Plan, by the Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Committee, to the State, minus the Mountain Bike Challenge Course.

PRESENTATION

POSSIBLE TRANSIT SERVICE BETWEEN LAKE COUNTY AND ORLANDO

BY LYNX

Mr. Tony Waters, Planning Manager, LYNX, addressed the Board and gave a brief presentation regarding a possible transit service between Lake County and Orlando. He stated that, in October of 2001, Mr. Byron Brooks, the Executive Director of LYNX, gave a presentation to the Board of County Commissioners at the County's Transportation Forum that was held at Lake-Sumter Community College, so that they would have a familiarity of what LYNX does, which is primarily public transportation. He stated that Mr. Mike Snyder, District 5 Secretary, with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), discussed problems the County has with roadway congestion at said Forum and some of the roads that were identified impact not only the area that LYNX serves, but also Lake County, which are SR 50, SR 441, and SR 46. He stated that, with regard to SR 50, the State is working on a number of design improvements to alleviate some of the traffic on it, however, noted that it will probably be three to five years down the road before some of those improvements are in place. He stated that, realistically, they will be improvements and will probably keep the road from deteriorating much more than it is, but probably will not add a significant amount of capacity, so one traveling along that corridor will still experience congestion.

Mr. Waters stated that he was present this date to discuss a possible partnership between Lake County and LYNX. He stated that they feel the partnership is pretty much already there, noting that county staff and representatives from LYNX have talked to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and everyone involved has an interest in how said area is addressed. He stated that LYNX currently has a bus service that goes to the Lake County line on SR 50, as well as a bus service that goes up Hwy. 441almost to the Lake County line, but they do not have anything that crosses the Lake County line. He stated that, in order to develop the type of service that they are talking about, they need to be sure that the service they develop has the best opportunity for success. He stated that an express service on SR 50 should work well, but there are a lot of issues in developing that type of service that impact the success of it, which they have discovered through experience. He stated that they need to know exactly where people are coming from and going to; therefore, they feel that a survey needs to be done, to see what the desire of the general public is, with regard to it. He stated that LYNX has learned, over the last several years, not to develop a service and put it out there, without input from the community or neighborhood that will be serviced, at which time he reviewed what LYNX does in a typical service development process. He stated that the type of study that LYNX is looking at, for the SR 50 corridor, is in the price range of $35,000 to $45,000. He stated that they would anticipate having a service plan come out of that, which they can take to FDOT, Lake County, and Orange County, or Seminole County, depending on which corridors they determine they want to implement, present it, with a financial plan, and seek guidance from those organizations.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether said funds would include the Hwy. 441 corridor, as well, to which Mr. Waters stated that it would.

Commr. Hanson stated that her recommendation would be to include all of the corridors alluded to - SR 46, SR 441, and SR 50.

Mr. Waters stated that they have a lot of information on Hwy. 441, however, noted that they do not have a lot of information on SR 50, other than what they can physically see. He stated that he would recommend developing a scope, price it out, and then bring it back to the Board at a later date.

Commr. Pool stated that he felt that would be the best thing to do.

Commr. Hill questioned whether there would be any matching dollars from LYNX.

Mr. Waters stated that they did have some funding that they could use for a study such as the one that was recommended and noted that there are some federal dollars available, as well.

Commr. Pool asked staff to meet with LYNX and bring a recommendation back to the Board at a later date, with regard to cost, advantages and disadvantages, and where to start. He stated that there are some opportunities available that the County needs to explore. He thanked Mr. Waters for his presentation and noted that the County looks forward to working with LYNX in the future.

PUBLIC HEARING

FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR 2002 ACTION PLAN PRE-PUBLICATION PUBLIC HEARING TO RECONFIRM USES OF FISCAL YEAR 2002/2003 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS PROPOSED IN FISCAL YEAR 2000/2005 CONSOLIDATED PLAN

Ms. Liz Eginton, Director of the Community Development Block Grant Program, Community Services, addressed the Board stating that this public hearing was the start of the FY 2002/2003 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding cycle and preparation of the Federal FY 2000/2005 Action Plan. She stated that, according to the Citizen Participation Plan, which she noted is part of the Consolidated Plan, the first step is to hold a public hearing, prior to publication. She stated that the intent of the hearing is to provide opportunities for public comment on community needs, program performance, and proposed uses of funds for the coming year and that is what staff would be doing at this hearing. She noted that they would take a brief look at what has been accomplished, to date, and then present a preliminary budget concept for FY 2002/2003. She stated that, once the public has had a chance to comment on the concept budget, staff would be requesting the Board to direct Community Services to implement Year 3 of the Consolidated Plan, with a few minor updates. She reviewed some of the accomplishments that occurred during the first four months of FY 2001/2002, noting that the construction contract for paving of roads in Lake Kathryn was awarded on January 8, 2002; architectural designs for the Ingraham Center renovation in Tavares and the Montverde Town Hall restroom renovations are complete, and a contractor has been selected for the Ingraham Center, with the Town Hall project to be bid shortly; assessment letters for Holiday Road and Holiday Circle in Astor have gone out, and the contract for engineering design on the remaining paving assessment roads is being negotiated; public service projects were started in October of 2001, and, as of January 1, 2002, 66 people had received 487 prescriptions at the Health Department; Mid-Florida Community Services is delivering frozen meals, to be eaten over weekends, to 98 home-bound seniors, and 10 additional clients are being transported to congregate meal sites. She stated that the County has also started implementation of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice, as directed by the Board on September 18, 2001. She stated that a sub-committee of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee has been meeting with county staff and housing delivery system professionals, to finalize implementation strategies. She stated that the sub-committee is to report to the full committee in May of this year.

Ms. Eginton stated that, because these programs have proven to be successful, staff would like to continue the activities next year, as outlined in the Consolidated Plan, however, noted that funding levels will be slightly decreased from the FY 2000/2002 estimate, as the FY 2002/2003 estimated entitlement is $46,000.00 less than this year. She stated that the County is looking at paving a second group of roadways in the Lake Kathryn community near Paisley and the City of Tavares will continue with revitalization of the Ingraham Park neighborhood, by adding streetscaping and sidewalks. She stated that the County will complete accessibility improvements to the Montverde Town Hall, by adding and/or improving doorway ramps and auditorium seating. She stated that the Health Department's allocation for prescription assistance will be slightly reduced, due to the decrease in the 15% public service cap. She stated that staff was suggesting that the County continue to budget general revenue funds to supplement said allocation. She stated that Mid-Florida's allocation for weekend meal deliveries and congregate meal site transportation remain the same as this year. She stated that administration and project overrun contingency set asides are also reduced from this year. She stated that each of these projects is a continuation of an on-going activity. She stated that staff was requesting the Board to direct them to implement Year 3 of the Consolidated Plan, with a few minor updates.

Ms. Kelly Pisciotta, Executive Director of Affordable Housing by Lake, addressed the Board stating that she was present as a representative of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. She stated that it was wonderful where CDBG program dollars have gone, however, noted that there is still a loop that is missing out tremendously. She stated that Affordable Housing by Lake has a home repair program, which utilizes SHIP funds to help repair homes and revitalize neighborhoods in the County, however, noted that they are in a dire emergency at this time. She stated that, according to reports that have come out, CDBG funds across the State are used to help with revitalization of homes and they currently have 285 homes that are on the waiting list to be repaired. She stated that, if they continue to just utilize SHIP funds to repair homes, it will take over 10 years to repair the 285 homes she alluded to, which does not include the list that continues to grow every day. She stated that, if the County were to earmark $100,000.00 of CDBG funds for Affordable Housing by Lake, it would help repair 25 roofs, which would take 25 more people off the list. She noted that, if those homes have to wait the ten years she alluded to, for the roofs to be repaired, the people that live in them will probably no longer be with the County, or their home will have fallen down around them.

Commr. Pool questioned what the average repair cost would be, per roof.

Ms. Pat Trefethan, Community Services, addressed the Board stating that it would be $4,100.00.

Commr. Pool questioned what the average repair cost would be, per home.

Ms. Trefethan stated that it would be approximately $20,000.00.

Commr. Cadwell questioned whether there was a limit on the amount of SHIP monies that can be used for revitalization and whether Affordable Housing by Lake was up to that limit.

Ms. Pisciotta stated that there is a limit to said monies and that they were up to their limit. She stated that they utilize every dollar they have in SHIP funds to revitalize homes. She stated that they also utilize recaptured funds for home repairs, which she elaborated on. She stated that they are utilizing funds in any way they can to get the repairs done. She stated that it is a win/win situation for the County, because it is revitalizing its neighborhoods. She stated that they are getting everybody into home ownership and are doing great with it, but the County needs to help people that are already homeowners.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

No one was present in opposition to the request.

There being no one present who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

Commr. Hanson questioned whether staff had any idea about how legislation was going, with regard to SHIP funds being diverted back to the County, and whether the Association of Counties was dealing with the issue. She stated that she would like to add the Witherspoon Lodge in Mt. Dora to the list, noting that it was recently dedicated as a historic building. She stated that it is going to need restoration dollars and she feels it might qualify for funding. She stated that, with regard to the request before them, she feels the County needs to find a way to work it into future budgets, because she does not feel that funding is available for it in this year's budget.

Commr. Cadwell stated that he would prefer the request be looked at for future years, noting that he did not know where the County would get the $100,000.00 being requested from this year's budget. He stated that he would like for staff to look at the total budget for revitalization and have a discussion regarding it at a later date.

Commr. Pool suggested that the Board take $50,000.00 out of Contingency and allocate it toward the request, noting that it would help repair a lot of homes.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2002/2003 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds Proposed in the Fiscal Year 2000/2005 Consolidated Plan, allowing $50,000.00 of project overrun Contingency money to go toward the Affordable Housing by Lake revitalization program, lowering the Contingency fund to $42,300.00.

PUBLIC HEARING

ORDINANCES/EDUCATION

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

ORDINANCE AMENDING THE LAKE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENT TO THE FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT TO PROVIDE FOR SCHOOL SITING AND LOCATION CRITERIA, PURSUANT TO CHANGES IN SECTION 163.3177(6)(A), FLORIDA STATUES; PROVIDING FOR PROOF OF PUBLICATION, AS REQUIRED BY CHAPTER 163, FLORIDA STATUES, SECTION 163.3184(15); PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.



Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, informed the Board that the County transmitted the proposed Ordinance to the Department of Community Affairs in November of 2001 and they were very pleased with the language in the Ordinance. She stated that it meets all the criteria required; therefore, staff feels it is going to work. She requested approval of the Ordinance.

Commr. Stivender questioned whether the County had received any comments from the School Board, regarding the Ordinance, and was informed that the County had.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

No one was present in opposition to the request.

There being no one present who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance No. 2002-3, concerning School Siting Amendments, as presented.

PRESENTATION

CR 44 CORRIDOR STUDY BY TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERS, INC.

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board stating that the County received partial funding from the State to do a CR 44 Corridor Study, through the Incentive Program, with 35% of the funding coming from the State and 65% of it coming from the County. He noted that the corridor runs from the Leesburg area to the east side of Eustis.



RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

At 10:35 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would take a five minute recess, to allow Transportation Engineers, Inc. to set up for their presentation.

PRESENTATION

CR 44 CORRIDOR STUDY BY TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERS, INC.(CONT'D.)

Mr. Kent Black, Project Manager, Transportation Engineers, Inc. (TEI), addressed the Board and gave a brief presentation regarding the CR 44 Corridor Study that they conducted.

He stated that they were in the initial stages of the study, which is data collection and information compilation. He stated that they were being greatly assisted by county staff, as well as staff from the City of Leesburg, the City of Eustis, and the City of Mt. Dora, who are partners in the study. He emphasized the public's involvement, noting that it will be key to the corridor. He stated that TEI wants to work closely with the subdivisions, residences, and business owners along the corridor; therefore, they will be holding public meetings and workshops to obtain input and ideas from the public, as they move forward to develop short and long-term improvements. He stated that the data collection effort involves many, many things, such as traffic count data and crash data, as well as a number of operational and safety concerns along the corridor, besides the overall capacity of the roadway, which they want to address throughout the project. He stated that they will be looking at future land use plans and noted that cultural, natural, and environmental features are of interest, as well. He stated that they want to address any impacts to neighbors very early in the process, as they move forward with the short and long-term improvements.

Mr. Black stated that some of the issues will involve whether the County will need a two-lane roadway, or a four-lane roadway. He stated that traffic from Hwy. 441 and the interaction between the CR 44 corridor and Hwy. 441 are strong issues. He stated that, with regard to short term enhancements, they want to identify short term operational and safety improvements and get them into the work program, as the study is ongoing. He stated that they would like to start getting some projects completed on CR 44 and then focus on some long-term enhancements and on finishing off the study. He stated that some public concerns are the impact that the project will have on the County's natural resources; a raised or open median, if the road is four-laned, and how it will impact access to businesses, subdivisions, and private residences; and pedestrian accommodations and safety along the corridor. He stated that they want to get some of the short term enhancements identified very quickly and into the work program and some of the types of improvements that they would be looking at would be intersection improvements, such as turn lanes, protected left turn phasing, traffic signal retiming and coordination, and access improvements, such as driveway control and spacing, side street spacing, and deceleration/acceleration lanes at certain access points. He stated that all this will come out of a technical traffic and safety analysis that will be done by TEI.

Mr. Black stated that some of the other short-term enhancements that he believes sets the stage for future enhancements will be focused on land use and zoning issues and also transportation system management type improvements that might include transit service, ride share programs, and some bicycle/pedestrian enhancements, which he feels will set the stage for the long-term enhancements that TEI will have for the corridor. He stated that the long-term improvements that are anticipated are that nothing be done to the corridor, at which time he noted that they will do all their analysis based on doing nothing to it, although they do not think that will be the end finding of the study. He stated that some other long-term improvements will be widening of the roadway to a four-lane divided section along the existing alignment, with minimal rights-of-way. He stated that they have already identified some safety horizontal curves and other situations along the corridor where there might be some slight realignments, which will have some impact on land acquisition and rights-of-way.

Mr. Black stated that he feels public involvement is one of the most, if not the most, important element of this study, noting that TEI wants to obtain suggestions, ideas, recommendations, and input from the public, through their process of coordination and presentations at neighborhood group meetings, public agencies, citizen groups, and Lake County advisory groups (TAC/CAC), as well as through newsletters, their web site, and advertisements and press releases. He stated that they envision having a number of public information meetings, such as an introductory/kick-off meeting and an alternatives workshop. He stated that they will be making presentations and briefings before the Board of County Commissioners, as well as the Planning and Zoning Commission. He stated that the project has just been initiated, noting that they have a 12 to 14 month schedule, extending into the very beginning of 2003. He stated that they are in the initial stage of data collection, which they will wrap up in March or April of this year, and will then begin developing their project strategies - the short-term and long-term enhancement program, evaluate those alternatives, and then do the final report and documentation towards the end of this year and the beginning of next year.

Ms. Pat Mayhill, City of Eustis, addressed the Board stating that the City of Eustis is very much involved in this project and has been from the beginning. She stated that they have wanted to have a study done on the CR 44 corridor for many years, so they are very encouraged by the study and will support it fully. She stated that they will provide whatever information they can, to help the process along.

Mr. Noble Olasimbo, Engineer, Lake County Public Works, distributed a copy of Mr. Black's presentation to the Board, for their perusal, at which time he noted that the County will be providing a link to the project on its web site, so that people can view it at any time. He noted that the public information newsletter will be linked to the web site, as well.

PRESENTATION

MARCH OF DIMES

Mr. Rob Davis, a volunteer with the Lake County March of Dimes, addressed the Board and gave a brief presentation about how the March of Dimes affected his family. He told a very touching story about his mother and the difficulty she had in carrying two pregnancies almost to full-term, only to lose them both, and how she was put on complete bed rest for five months during her pregnancy with him. He stated that he was born six weeks premature, with non-functioning lungs and a rather bleak chance at survival, suffering with something called respiratory distress syndrome. He stated that the doctors turned to an experimental therapy that was developed by a March of Dimes researcher and introduced to Shands Hospital only months earlier, which Shands had been given authorization to use in dire cases. He stated that the experiment saved his life, without any signs of mental retardation, blindness, or deafness, which the doctors were afraid might have been caused, prior to the experiment being applied. He stated that he has since graduated from high school near the top of his class and now attends the University of Florida, where he is studying to become a neonatologist. He stated that he was standing before the Board this date, healthy and happy, due to the March of Dimes. He stated that his mother told him she would be forever grateful to the March of Dimes for what it had given her - him. He stated that he could say without a doubt that, if it was not for the work of walkers and volunteers, he would not have made it this far. He stated that, as a March of Dimes volunteer, everyone has an opportunity to perform life saving work. He stated that every time an individual volunteers their time, raises money, or just talks about the March of Dimes and its mission, they help people and each and every baby struggling to stay alive and provide inspiration to others, but most of all, they set an example for others to follow.

Commr. Pool thanked Mr. Davis for his presentation, noting that the Board is going to do their part to help raise funds. He applauded Mr. Davis' efforts, as well as the efforts of all the March of Dimes volunteers.

It was noted that the County's goal this year is $200,000.00.

CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

Mr. Max Fulton, a resident of The Villages, in Lady Lake, addressed the Board regarding a concern he had about an article that was in their local paper, The Daily Sun, regarding the proposed enhancement of their Emergency Medical Services and the fact that it was stated Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, had indicated there will be an additional charge to the residents, if said service is provided to them.

Mr. Neron stated that the matter is under study and he will be bringing a report back to the Board within the next two weeks.

Mr. Herb Klinker, President of the Sylvan Shores Association, and Ms. Marilyn Kirst, a Morningside Drive resident, Chairman of the Morningside Drive Committee, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Sylvan Shores Association, addressed the Board regarding a concern the residents of Sylvan Shores have about the County's improvement plan for Morningside Drive, which includes the installation of center islands and speed bumps on the road. They indicated that they had submitted a letter to Commr. Hanson outlining their concerns and had some information about how the residents feel the problem can be solved to everyone's satisfaction. A petition containing approximately 100 signatures of the residents in the area of Morningside Drive was submitted, for the record, in opposition to the height (two inches) of the speed bumps that are proposed for Morningside Drive, which the residents feel is not going to be sufficient to reduce the speed and traffic on the road.

Commr. Hanson interjected that the letter that was submitted to her was forwarded to Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works.

Mr. Neron suggested that staff meet with the residents of Sylvan Shores, to address their concerns.

Ms. Terri Ferrar, a resident who lives on Morningside Drive, addressed the Board stating that the residents do not want a beautification project that increases one's ability to go faster on the road - their main concern is speed control on the road.

Mr. Carl Lunderstadt, Chairman, Industrial Development Authority, addressed the Board stating that he had been recruited to represent a new not-for-profit agency that has been set up to handle adult sexual abuse victims in Lake and Sumter counties, called the Family Crisis Center, at which time he introduced Ms. Kathy Cherry, the Executive Director of the Family Crisis Center, who was a trauma nurse in the Emergency Room at Leesburg Regional Medical Center for approximately 20 years and a SANE (Sexual Abuse Nurse Examiner) nurse, with a doctorate in health care administration.

Ms. Cherry informed the Board that the goal of the Family Crisis Center is to reach victims that are not being handled appropriately. She discussed the process that is currently in place and the fact that the Family Crisis Center wants to provide a safe place, a timely forensic exam, and appropriate intervention to victims immediately. She stated that statistics show only 5% of rapes are reported and, using that number, it means that 12,000 rapes occurred in Lake County alone. She stated that a rapist will rape between 8 and 16 times before they are caught and the Family Crisis Center wants to reduce that, by providing evidence that has been collected appropriately, so that they can immediately hand it over to law enforcement, giving them the opportunity to obtain arrest warrants, so they can take the perpetrators off the street and bring them to trial. She further elaborated on the matter, noting that the agency has gained a lot of support from State Attorney Brad King, Senator Anna Cowin, and law enforcement, because of its system and the fact that it provides a timely forensic evaluation and documentation.

Mr. Lunderstadt readdressed the Board stating that the agency has had some financial support, noting that the Economic Development Commission of Sumter County helped them facilitate a computer, printer, office desk chairs, and file cabinets from Office Depot, valued at approximately $7,600.00, and Dr. Alfred Moffett and Dr. Douglas Moffett have graciously offered their services as Medical Directors. He stated that the community medical center of the First Baptist Church in Leesburg has leased the agency space in their building and they have received private donations of a little over $5,000.00, as well. He stated that, in addition, they will be able to invoice and bill victims of crimes for the State forensic medical examinations, which will bring in approximately $25,000.00, giving the agency an overall total of approximately $75,000.00 in in-kind services and cash. He stated that they have requested funds from the hospital foundation and expect to hear a decision back from them in May of this year. He stated that they appreciate the verbal support that the Board of County Commissioners has given them, however, noted that anything further they can do to assist the agency will be greatly appreciated.

Commr. Hanson stated that she sits on the Board of the new agency and their goal is to be self-supporting, through the billing process. She stated that they just need some help with matching funds, to cover start up costs. She noted that there will be no billing to the patients, the billing goes to the State.

Ms. Cherry interjected that the only billable service for victims of crime is the forensic medical evaluation. She noted that insurance companies do not participate in said evaluations.

Commr. Hill stated that the Sheriff has drug seizure money that is discretionary and questioned whether he had indicated he would use any of said money to help the agency.

Ms. Cherry stated that she was told by the Sheriff to come back to him, after she has tried other means of raising funds.

Commr. Hill stated that she was trying to find funding sources that might be able to help the agency now, rather than them having to wait until a budget session to find out if the County will be able to help them.

Commr. Pool stated that the County Manager might be able to find some funding sources and determine whether or not the Sheriff's Office will be able to help with funding, as well. He informed Mr. Lunderstadt that the Board should have an answer regarding the request for funding at the Board Meeting scheduled for March 5, 2002.

Mr. Lunderstadt stated that one of his goals is to have long-term viability for the agency, rather than have a situation where it is asking for funding every fiscal year.

Commr. Pool stated that he was convinced the County can and will help - it was just a matter of getting the dollars. He applauded the agency for its efforts and thanked Mr. Lunderstadt and Ms. Cherry for their presentation.

GROWTH MANAGEMENT/ORDINANCES

Commr. Pool informed the Board that he asked that this request be pulled from the County Manager's Consent Agenda, to discuss whether a permit is required to extend an irrigation line, or make repairs to irrigation/sprinkler systems.

Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, stated that no permit is required for maintenance of irrigation/sprinkler systems that are less than $600.00. She stated that the County was just bringing its Code up-to-date, with regard to irrigation/sprinkler contractor licensing requirements.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Growth Management for approval to advertise amendments to Chapter 6 of the Lake County Code, Building and Construction, to add irrigation/sprinkler contractor licensing requirements.

REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained this request, stating that it was a request to hire J. J. Dahl, who currently represents the Code Enforcement Board, to represent the Board of Building Examiners. He stated that the County sent out Requests for Proposals; however, no one responded. He stated that Ms. Dahl has requested a slight increase in her fee, raising it to $85.00 per hour, however, noted that it is still well below what attorneys are currently charging.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for approval of First Amendment to Agreement between Lake County and J. J. Dahl, relating to Outside Legal Services for the Code Enforcement Board, to include the Board of Building Examiners. REPORTS

COUNTY ATTORNEY

CONTRACTS, LEASES AND AGREEMENTS

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained this request, stating that it was a request for approval of a settlement agreement and administrative hearing that the County intervened in, titled Liberty County versus the Department of Banking and Finance, which involves the distribution of federal funds that used to be done based upon sales of timber in the forest, however, that was changed, because sales of timber have decreased so much. He stated that the Federal Government gave $2.3 million to the State and the Department of Banking and Finance adopted a way to distribute it, but, some of the counties in the panhandle felt cheated and filed an administrative proceeding, to contest it. He stated that the settlement will give the County an amount equal to the average of the three highest, over the last 14 years, which he feels is a good settlement for the County, therefore, requested approval of it. He noted that the Board had been provided with backup information, under separate cover, for their perusal.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Attorney for approval of a proposed settlement between Liberty, Baker, Wakulla, Franklin, Marion, and Lake counties and the Department of Banking and Finance; and authorization to sign the settlement documents.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 2

RESOLUTIONS

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2002-26, recognizing Mr. Don Braksick for his contribution to the community, through his interest in abandoned and neglected cemeteries.

Commr. Hanson stated that Mr. Braksick has worked very hard on his own, with a passion, and has brought cemeteries to a much higher level of awareness, particularly abandoned and neglected ones within the County.

Commr. Pool interjected that Mr. Braksick has been appointed by the Governor of Florida to serve on the Abandoned and Neglected Cemeteries Task Force. He stated that Mr. Braksick has done an admirable job for the County and the Board wanted to thank him for it.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER HILL - DISTRICT 1

MISCELLANEOUS

Commr. Hill thanked Commr. Pool for including her in the Liberty Tree Dedication Ceremony that was held in front of the Historical Courthouse on Monday, February 18, 2002, noting that it was a very nice event.

ADDENDUM NO. 1

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

SUITS AFFECTING THE COUNTY/LANDFILLS/MEETINGS/SOLID WASTE

Commr. Hanson reminded the Board that they were going to schedule a date for a Closed Session, regarding the incinerator lawsuit, and questioned whether that date had been set.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the County Manager has heard from Covanta (formerly Ogden Martin) and staff is hopeful that they will be giving the County something in the next week or two. He stated that, once the County has received said information, he will put a request on an upcoming agenda to set up a Closed Session regarding the matter, however, noted that, until that occurs, there would not really be anything to discuss.

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, interjected that he was having staff prepare for him an analysis of some alternatives that the County can look at, which he will share with the Board. He stated that he should have said information within the next two to three weeks.

Commr. Hanson clarified that said meeting will probably not occur the first Tuesday in March, but perhaps the third.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

MEETINGS

Commr. Hanson questioned whether a date had been set for the next Joint Planning Areas Meeting with Dr. Lance deHaven-Smith.

Commr. Pool stated that he had recently attended a luncheon with the Lake County League of Cities and a remark was made as to whether the County really needed a facilitator. He stated that everyone knows what the County is trying to accomplish and how it is trying to get there; therefore, it is felt the County may not need one. He stated that the League of Cities wants the City Managers to meet and work out a framework for each and every planning area, because it is felt each city is unique and one plan cannot fit all.

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that he recently attended a Florida City/County Manager's Association Winter Retreat in Clearwater and it was felt that the Joint Planning Areas, while they are very important, are only the tip of the iceberg for a whole range of issues that the Cities and the County need to be working together on, such as annexation, joint utility areas, and planning for fire and parks and recreation. He stated that it was felt the City Managers, as a group, need to get together rather quickly, to see if they can do a better job of facilitating candid conversation between the County and the Cities, and start attacking the issues as fast as they can, because they are all interrelated in one shape or fashion. He stated that they are trying to facilitate a meeting, to discuss the matter and try to come up with the framework of an agreement that would be common to all the cities as soon as possible, however, noted that the actual details of that agreement would vary from city to city. He noted that he would need to wait until he meets with the City Managers, to see how quickly they can move on it. He stated that he would rather not give the Board a date and not be able to meet it, therefore, would like to have a chance to meet with them and then work out a schedule. He stated that they understand the importance of this issue and will move it ahead as quickly as possible.

REPORTS

COMMISSIONER CADWELL - DISTRICT 5

MISCELLANEOUS

Commr. Cadwell stated that the Liberty Tree Dedication Ceremony that was held in front of the Historic Courthouse on Monday, February 18, 2002, involving the Sons of the American Revolution, was a nice ceremony and invited everyone to stop and take a look at the tree and plaque. He stated that it is located between the "Dough Boy" and the corner of the Historic Courthouse.



REPORTS

COMMISSIONER POOL - CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 2

COMMITTEES

Commr. Pool stated that the Environmental Protection Advisory Board has given the Board some input as to what they would like to see occur, as the County moves forward, with regard to the issue of septic tanks. He stated that he had discussed the matter with Mr. Allan Hewitt, Water Resource Manager, Growth Management, as well as Dr. Robert Taylor, members of the environmental community, and some developers, to try to figure out the best way to reduce the number of septic systems throughout the County. He stated that the County is currently allowing up to four septic systems per acre on central water, however, noted that it is felt, if that number could be lowered incrementally and the County could start with 2.5 units per acre, it might be something to bring back to the Board for discussion, at which time environmentalists, the development community, and the County's Water Resource Manager, Mr. Hewitt, could be included in the discussion. He stated that they might also include a discussion regarding environmentally sensitive wetlands and/or water bodies, when there are setbacks involved. He stated that he would like to have something regarding the matter brought back to the Board within the next month or so, for discussion and consideration, noting that he feels the County can meet the concerns, the demands, and the community, as it goes forward with development.

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that it would involve a land development regulation change, therefore, questioned whether Commr. Pool would like for staff to draft an ordinance to bring the issue forward.

Commr. Pool stated that he would like to at least have a public hearing and an opportunity for the matter to be discussed.

It was noted that a workshop meeting will be scheduled, at which time staff will have some information prepared, for the Board's consideration.

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 12:05 p.m.



________________________________ ROBERT A. POOL, CHAIRMAN



ATTEST:





________________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK



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