A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 21, 2004

            The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in a regular session on Tuesday, September 21, 2004, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting Room, on the second floor of the Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Debbie Stivender, Chairman; Jennifer Hill, Vice Chairman; Catherine C. Hanson; Welton G. Cadwell; and Robert A. Pool. Others present were: Sanford A. “Sandy” Minkoff, County Attorney; William “Bill” Neron, County Manager; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, Board of County Commissioner’s Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Toni M. Riggs, Deputy Clerk.

            INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

            AGENDA UPDATE

            Ordinance-Temporary Housing/Final Budget Hearings

            

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that the Board has been presented with Addendum No. 1, which has three consent items, and two items for discussion. He noted that the County has just gotten new software, so the update on the fire stations will be delayed until some time in November. He also wanted to remind the Board that Tab 35, the public hearing on the Ordinance concerning temporary housing, and the public hearings on the final budget, have been rescheduled to September 28, 2004, at 5:05 p.m.

            Evaluations - County Manager and County Attorney

            Under her business, Commr. Stivender stated that the Board members were not able to get all of the evaluations done for the County Manager, and the County Attorney, so they will be postponed until next week, September 28, 2004. She would implore everyone to complete them and submit them to Ms. Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, Board Office.

            Public Hearing - Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento Planning Advisory Committee

            Commr. Hanson stated that Tab 33, the public hearing on the Ordinance creating the Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento Planning Advisory Committee, and Tab 37 regarding the appointment of individuals to this Committee, have been postponed until October 5, 2004. Mr. Keith Schue, Central Florida Sierra Club, Wekiva Issue Chair, could not make it to this meeting, so he had made this request for postponement. She would like him to make a small presentation at that time.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, noted that Tab 33 is a public hearing, and staff has already started the re-advertisement process for the proposed Ordinance.

            Commr. Hanson made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Pool, to approve to postpone Tabs 33 and 37 relating to the Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento Planning Advisory Committee, until October 5, 2004.

            Commr. Stivender opened the public hearing and called for public comment on the motion to postpone these items, as noted. There being none, the public hearing portion of the meeting was closed.

            Commr. Stivender called for a vote on the motion, which was carried unanimously by a 5–0 vote.

            MINUTE APPROVAL

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5–0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of July 27, 2004 (Joint Meeting with the School Board), as presented.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of August 11, 2004 (Joint Meeting with the School Board), as presented.

            CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Clerk of Courts’ Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 4, as follows:

            List of Warrants

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of the 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.

 

            Contractor Bonds - New

 

            Request to approve the following Contractor Bonds, new, stipulations, riders, and cancellations:

 

390-05Thomas G. Phillips/Ram Electric USA, Inc. (Electrical)

1431-05Alfred E. Tinney DBA Tinney Plumbing Company Plumbing)

4849-05Larry D. New/Economy Electric of Central Florida, Inc. (Electrical)

5027-05Kenneth Lawrence Watson/Ken Watson Roofing Inc. (Roofing)

5232-05David Rauh/Brierhill Homes, Inc. (Class C Residential)

5393-05E. B. Hacker/Lennar Homes, Inc./Clermont-Division (Building)

5459-04Patrick J. Verner/Delta Star Electric Inc. (Electrical)

5569-05William Greenberg/DBA Morris Electric (Electrical)

5766-04Guy Clement/Clement Electric, Inc. (Electrical)

5869-05Laurier A. Poirier III/Direct Electric, Inc. (Electrical)

5906-05Michael J. Stauffer/Michael J. Stauffer, Inc. (Irrigation)

5920-05James E. Jacob/Focal Point Landscape, Inc. (Irrigation)

5926-04James Ronald Smith DBA James Ronald Smith Sprinklers, Inc.

6012-05Frank J. Malamisura/Prime Electrical Contracting LLC (Electrical)

6053-04Charles Melton DBA Melton Construction

6180-05Jasper T. Bowling/All-Tite Roofing, Inc. (Roofing)

6200-04Richardo Vega DBA Vega Irrigation, Inc.

6201-04David B. White/The Exspirt Lawn Sprinkler System LLC (Irrigation/Sprinkler)

6202-04Michael B. Martin DBA Alamar Services, Inc.

6203-04John D. Odom DBA Odom Electrical Services, Inc.

6204-04Dixie Landscape DBA Dixie Landscape

6205-04Gilbert Johnson DBA Gilbert Johnson Framing

 

Stipulations

 

3077-04Ken Oliver Roofing amended to Ken Oliver Roofing, Inc. (Effective 8/19/04)

5887-04Ken Abrehamsen DBA Pro Delta amended to Ken Abrehamsen DBA Pro Delta and Pro Delta, LLC (effective 7/13/04)

 

Riders

 

1378-04Change Name of Principal from A. Derrell Baugh DBA Baugh’s Electric to Derrell Baugh, Inc. and Bond Number is changed from 027712 20621348 to 027712 66621348 (effective May 3, 2004)

1378-04Correcting Name of Principal from Derrell Baugh, Inc. to Derrel Baugh, Inc. (Effective August 18, 2004)

1950-06Change Name of Principal from Richard Gerth DBA Dart & Gerth Construction to Richard L. Gerth DBA Dart & Gerth, Inc. (Effective 7-12-04)

4197-04Change Name of Principal from Philip A. Berg to Philip A. Berg DBA Berg Electric, Inc. (Effective July 15, 2004)

4388-05Change Name of Principal from Richard Hirsch to Richard Hirsch, Inc. (Effective 8/23/04)

4793-04Change Address for Bruce Baumgardner Aluminum, Inc. (Effective June 28, 2004)

4834-04Change Name of Principal to read Melvin B. Benn and Melvin Benn Masonry, Inc. (Effective July 21, 2004)

5697-04Change Name of Principal from Coy L. Thomas to Coy Thomas Electric, Inc. (Effective 1-20-04)

5783-04Change Name of Principal to read Gregory J. Vaughn DBA Gregory Homes, Inc. (Effective May 7, 2004)

5896-04Amending Name of Principal from Gary Anderson DBA Anderson Landscape & Lawn Care & Irrigation to Anderson Landscape & Lawn Care & Irrigation LLC (effective May 25, 2004)

5952-05Change Expiration Date to 8/9/04 - Wilburth Landscaping, Inc./Russell Wilburth

6097-04Change Name of Principal from James Brandon Drawdy DBA JBD Construction to JBD Builders Inc. (Effective 1/12/04)

 

Cancellations

 

4968-04Lilley Air Conditioning Inc. (Effective 9-30-03 - Cancel Date 10-30-04)

5598-01Douglas Electric, Inc. (Cancel Date 9-30-04)

5817-05Freddie F. Fleming DBA Fleming Electric, Inc. (Cancel Date 10-20-04

5899-03Larry G. Blue (Cancel Date 10-21-04)

5915-04South Lake Irrigation (Danny Gaughan) (Cancel Date 9/30/04)

5926-04James Ronald Smith Sprinklers, Inc. DBA James Ronald Smith Sprinklers (Cancel Date 9-30-04)

5986-04Mike Moucha DBA Grassmasters of Central Florida (Cancel Date 10/1/04)

6031-03James Norman (Cancel Date 9/30/04)

6078-04Daryl Carbaugh t/a Carbaugh Construction, Inc. Cancel Date 8-27-04)

 


            Satisfaction of Judgments

 

            Request to approve and authorize signatures on the following:

 

            Satisfaction of Judgment Assessing Attorney’s Fees and Costs - State of Florida vs. Leroy Coburn, Case No. 1985-25192TT53 - in the amount of $250.00 - Final Judgment was entered on the 16th day of January, 1996, and recorded in OR Book 865, Page 849, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida; and

 

            Satisfaction of Judgment Assessing Attorney’s Fees and Costs - State of Florida vs. Leroy Coburn, Case No. 9300206CFA01 - in the amount of $250.00 - Final Judgment was entered on the 30th day of October 1996, and recorded in OR Book 1483, Page 1203, of the Public Records of Lake County, Florida.

 

            Satisfactions and Release of Fines

 

            Request to approve and authorize signatures on the following:

 

            Satisfaction and Release of Fine, which fully releases and discharges AJ Petroleum, LLC and Sam and Floranse Mansour from Order of Fine, in the amount of $500.00 dated July 26,2004; and

 

            Satisfaction and Release of Fine, which fully releases and discharges AJ Petroleum, LLC and Lloyd M. Bellis, Trustee from Order of Fine, in the amount of $500.00, dated July 26, 2004.

 

            COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 3 through 30, and Addendum No. 1, Items I. A. 1, and B. 1 and 2, as follows:

            Budget Transfer/Landfill

 

            Request from Budget to approve a budget transfer – Landfill Enterprise Fund, Department of Environmental Services, Fiscal Support Services Division, in the amount of $43,000.00 is requested. Transfer $43,000.00 from Reserve for Operations to Contractual Services. Additional funds are needed to pay hauler collection fees. Original budget planned for smaller increase in the growth of residential units. Funds are available in Reserve for Operations.

 

            Resolution/Unanticipated Revenue/Ad Valorem Taxes

 

            Request from Budget for approval of Resolution 2004-147 to amend the General Fund in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2003-2004 in the amount of $53,420.00 deposited into Ad Valorem Taxes – Delinquent and provide appropriations for the disbursement for Transfer – Tax Collector.

 

            Grant Funding/Citizens’ Commission for Children/Agreements

 

            Request from Community Services for approval of annual grant funding for 12 children's service providers who have submitted applications for County funds through the Citizens' Commission for Children (CCC) Request for Proposal (RFP) process; permission to expend funds; and authorization for signatures on subsequent agreements contingent on County Attorney approval.

 

            State Aid to Libraries/Grant Application and Agreement

 

            Request from Community Services for approval and signature on the FY 2004-2005 State Aid to Libraries Grant Application and Agreement.

 

            Proclamation/Cultural Affairs Council/Leesburg

 

            Request from Economic Development and Tourism for approval of Proclamation 2004-148 to proclaim October 1, 2004 as the "Day in the Park" celebration for the Cultural Affairs Council sponsored Arts in Learning Festival at Rimes Early Education Learning and Literacy Center in Leesburg.

 

            Benefits Enhancement Addendum/Agreement

 

            Request from Employee Services for approval to accept the Benefits Enhancement Addendum for the Bradman/UniPsych Mental Health/Substance Abuse Program and extend the Agreement for two additional years until September 30, 2007.

 

            Contracts/Professional Engineering Consultants/Lake Harris/Little Lake Harris Basin

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award the contract to provide stormwater engineering services for Lake Harris and Little Lake Harris Basin to Professional Engineering Consultants, Inc. in accordance with Request for Proposal (RSQ) Number 04-077 in the amount of $299,612.52.

 

            Contract/Construction & Renovation Projects

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award the contract for Bid Number 04-029 Job Order Contract for Construction and Renovation of Projects $100,000.00 and less to Dimensional Contracting, Inc., Blankenship Land & Marine, Inc., and E & T Total Site, Inc.

 

            Contract/Lois Drive Drainage Improvements/Superior Asphalt

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award the contract to provide the Lois Drive Drainage Improvements in accordance with BID Number 04-138, in the amount of $184,799.50, to Superior Asphalt of Central Florida, Inc.

 

            Contract/Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc./Insurance

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to extend the current contract with Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. for the Third Party Administration Services for the property, liability and worker's compensation insurance.

 

            Contract/Bid Documents/Solid Waste/Landfill/Brown and Caldwell

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award the contract for the design, permitting and preparation of construction bid documents for the Lake County Solid Waste Management Class I Landfill, Phase II to Brown and Caldwell in accordance with RSQ Number 04-094 in the amount of $120,000.00.

 

            Contract/Southeastern Telecom, Inc./County’s Telephone System

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award the contract for Telecommunications Maintenance and Service to Southeastern Telecom, Inc. in accordance with RFP Number 04-079 to provide full service technical support of the County's in-house, multi-switch telephone system.

 

            Agreement/Mid Florida Community Services, Inc./Transportation Services

 

            Request from Program Analysis and Contract Management for approval of the Agreement extension between Mid Florida Community Services, Inc. and the Lake County Board of County Commissioners for the provision of Transportation Services.

 

            Resolutions/County Road Maintenance/Lake Kathryn/Block Grant

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to execute Resolution 2004-149 accepting Veva Avenue (County Road Number 8991A), Georgia Street (County Road Number 8991B), Poinsettia Avenue (County Road Number 8992D), Lake Street (County Road Number 8992F), Palm Street (County Road Number 8992G), and Panther Street (County Road Number 8994) into the County Road Maintenance System relating to the Lake Kathryn Community Development Block Grant Phase III, Project Number 2004-04.

 

            Letter of Credit for Maintenance/Johns Lake Estates, Phase 3

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to release a Letter of Credit for Maintenance in the amount of $60,630.00 posted for Johns Lake Estates, Phase 3. Johns Lake Estates, Phase 3 consists of 64 lots – Commission District 2.

 


            Letter of Credit for Performance/High Grove Unit 2

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to release a Letter of Credit for Performance posted for High Grove Unit 2 in the amount of $89,093.96. High Grove Unit 2 consists of 80 lots – Commission District 2.

 

            Letter of Credit for Installation/Garden City Subdivision

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to release a Letter of Credit for Installation of a public well in the amount of $31,385.46 posted for Garden City Subdivision. Garden City consists of 87 lots – Commission District 2.

 

            Returned Funds/Susan’s Landing

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to return funds in the amount of $561.00 to the developer of Susan's Landing.

 

            Final Plat/Lakewood Ranches Plat/Performance Bond/Developer’s Agreement

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Lakewood Ranches and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Lakewood Ranches plat; accept a Performance Bond in the amount of $273,108.00 for site preparation and cleaning; accept a Performance Bond in the amount of $3,581,361.85 for construction of infrastructure; and execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and FL Land Partners, LLC. Lakewood Ranches consists of 149 lots – Commission District 4. (Rescheduled from September 7, 2004)

 

            Property Exchange Agreement/Deeds/Resolutions/South Lake Recreational Trail

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of a Property Exchange Agreement, a County Deed, and Resolution 2004-150 between Lake County and David Warren, in conjunction with the South Lake Recreational Trail.

 

            Letter of Credit for Maintenance/Developer’s Agreement/Resolutions

            County Road Maintenance/Tradd’s Landing

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept a Letter of Credit for Maintenance in the amount of $129,638.34; accept a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements between Lake County and Tradd Land, Inc. and Loulou Hiresh; and execute Resolution 2004-151 accepting the following roads into the County Road Maintenance System: Harvest Boulevard "Part" (County Road Number 0456D); Ponce De Leon Lane (County Road Number 0456E); Block Island Lane (County Road Number 0456F); Point Bonita Lane (County Road Number 0456G); Cape Sandy Hook Lane (County Road Number 0456H); and Hatteras Drive (County Road Number 0456J) all relating to Tradd's Landing.

 

            Purchase Agreement/Keene Road Paving Project/Umatilla

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of a Purchase Agreement with Kenneth Johnson and James Alan Engebretsen for right of way, and authorization for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to sign any and all documents necessary for closing, in conjunction with the Keene Road Paving Project located in the Umatilla area.

 

            Purchase Agreement/Keene Road Paving Project/Umatilla

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of a Purchase Agreement with Gary Harbison and Deborah Harbison for right of way, and authorization for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to sign any and all documents necessary for closing, in conjunction with the Keene Road Paving Project located in the Umatilla area.

 

            Purchase Agreement/Keene Road Paving Project/Umatilla

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of a Purchase Agreement with Suzanne Rogers for right of way, and authorization for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to sign any and all documents necessary for closing, in conjunction with the Keene Road Paving Project located in the Umatilla area.

 


            Subordination of Utility Interests/Sprintcom, Inc./Sleepy Hollow Road Realignment

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and execution of a Subordination of Utility Interests with Sprintcom, Inc., a Kansas Corporation, in conjunction with the Sleepy Hollow Road Realignment Project located in the Leesburg area.

 

            Final Plat/Eagles Point Plat/Letter of Credit for Maintenance/Developer’s Agreement

            Resolution/County Road Maintenance

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Eagles Point and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Eagles Point plat; accept a Letter of Credit for Maintenance in the amount of $11,066.00; execute a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements between Lake County and Paul M. Buchanan, as Trustee and Shangri-La By The Lake, Inc.; and execute Resolution 2004-152 accepting the following roads into the County Road Maintenance System: Eagle Point Court (County Road Number 5741) and Golden Tree Drive (County Road Number 5841C). Eagles Point consists of 27 lots – Commission District 5.

 

            Resolution to Advertise/Vacation Petition 1030 by Keith Shamrock/Tavares Area

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and signature on Resolution 2004-153 to advertise Public Hearing for Vacation Petition Number 1030 by Keith Shamrock, Representative Bowen & Campione, P.A., to vacate a portion of an existing 50.00 foot wide deed that is consistent with the actual location of the paved roadway, located in Section 15 and 16, Township 19 South, Range 26 East, in the Tavares area – Commission Districts 3 and 4.

 

            Resolution to Advertise/Vacation Petition 1034 by Verde Ridge

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and signature on Resolution 2004-154 to advertise Public Hearing for Vacation Petition Number 1034 by Verde Ridge, Representative Donald W. McIntosh Associates, Inc., to vacate tracts and right of way in the Plat of Lake Highlands Company for the replat of Verde Ridge PUD, located in Section 15, Township 22 South, Range 26 East, in the Clermont area, Commission District 2.

 

            Resolution to Advertise/Vacation Petition 1035 by William P. & Florence A. Lange

 

            Request from Public Works for approval and signature on Resolution 2004-155 to advertise Public Hearing for Vacation Petition Number 1035 by William P. and Florence A. Lange to vacate a right of way reservation for C-435 on lots, in the Plat of Mt. Plymouth, located in Section 28, Township 19 South, Range 28 East, in the Sorrento area, Commission District 4.

 

            ADDENDUM NO. 1 -

 

            Budget Transfer/Fleet Maintenance

 

            Request from Budget for a budget transfer - Fleet Maintenance Fund, Department of Public Works, Special Services Division, Fleet Maintenance Section, in the amount of $80,000.00 is requested. Transfer $80,000.00 from Special Reserve to Operating Supplies. Additional funds are needed to purchase fuel for the remainder of the fiscal year. Due to the hurricanes that have affected Lake County, more fuel is being consumed and fuel is being provided to other entities. Funds are available in Special Reserve.

 

            Fixed Asset/Vann Gannaway Chevrolet

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to ratify the disposal of the fixed asset (1993 Nissan Sentra, Property Number 15413); authorize the removal of the fixed asset from the County’s official fixed asset inventory system records; and authorize the Procurement Services Director to sign the vehicle title of the traded-in unit to Vann Gannaway Chevrolet.

 

            Non-Competitive Contract/Emergency Management Services

            James Lee Witt Associates, LLC

 

            Request from Procurement Services for approval to award a non-competitive contract for Emergency Management Services for Federally Declared Disaster Damages for Lake County, Florida, to James Lee Witt Associates, LLC, for a total cost not to exceed $30,000.00.

 


            PRESENTATION: BRIEFING BY THE CITY OF LEESBURG STAFF

            SUNNYSIDE TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS 

 

            Commr. Stivender noted that Tab 31 will be delayed a short time this morning, until the Board receives the additional information for the meeting.

            PUBLIC HEARING:

 

            ORDINANCE RELATING TO AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 14 OF THE

            LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT

            REGULATIONS ELIMINATING REFERENCES TO THE PLANNING

            AND ZONING COMMISSION

 

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, placed the following proposed Ordinance on the floor, by title only, and noted that it will be Ordinance 2004-66, if approved by the Board:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA; AMENDING SECTION 14.00.04, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED APPLICATIONS; AMENDING SECTION 14.00.05, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED NOTICE PROCEDURES; AMENDING A REFERENCE TO THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

 

            Commr. Stivender opened the public hearing and called for public comment. There being none, the public hearing portion of the meeting was closed.

            On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance 2004,66, as read by title only.

            ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

            Commr. Stivender recognized Major Chris Daniels, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, who was present in the audience.

            PRESENTATION: BRIEFING BY THE CITY OF LEESBURG STAFF

            SUNNYSIDE TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS (CONTINUED)

 

            Ms. Laura McElhanon, Community Development Director, City of Leesburg, addressed the Board and introduced Ms. Yvette Brandt, Project Planner, who would be assisting her with today’s presentation. Ms. McElhanon stated that they would be reviewing the Sunnyside Task Force Recommendations, as presented to the Board in the Sunnyside Task Force Study Report.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that, in November, 2003, the Leesburg City Commission had a hearing on a very controversial annexation in the Sunnyside area. The City Commission did not approve the annexation but, because of issues that were raised at that time, they passed a moratorium for anything that increased density in the Sunnyside area and directed staff to put together a Task Force and start looking at future development, and the appropriate density in this area. Today they are presenting the actual Study Report that came from the Task Force, which was supported by the City Commission. Ms. McElhanon stated that the Study Report has not gone to the Lake County Local Planning Agency (LPA), but she was hoping that this would be the direction of the Board today. She explained the membership of the Sunnyside Task Force, in response to the inquiry made by Commr. Cadwell.

            Ms. McElhanon reviewed the Study Report, which contained Figure 1: Sunnyside Study Area; Figure 2: City and County Zoning; Figure 3: City and County Future Land Use; and Figure 4: Recommended Density Levels; and noted that the high (red) was approved at 8 units per acre; the medium (orange) was approved at 3 units per acre; the low (blue) was approved for 1 unit per acre; and very low (green) was approved at 1 unit per three acres. There were some similarities with the County’s density in the low and very low, with one exception in the green (very low) area where there is one unit per five acres. A lot of the undeveloped area is wetlands, and the Task Force was provided with wetland information. There are two areas where the Task Force supported nonresidential development, on the existing 40 acre tract of land on Sleepy Hollow that has been removed from Sunnyside, which has zoning approval from the City for 18 units per acre; and a smaller area to the west that is totally cleared land that has already been zoned commercial. The Task Force was provided with traffic counts, as well as information relating to the condition of roadways, and there was discussion about road projects, and the County’s classification system.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that the City Commission approved the recommendations from the Task Force in a Resolution, which supports the density shown in the report, and the banding of density ranging from eight units per acre, to one unit per three acres. There is support for cluster developing in the medium and high and, in terms of utilities, the City Commission conveyed to the Task Force that it would not be cost effective for them to extend the utilities, unless they have at least three units per acre. Even though the City if not really supportive of wells and septic tanks, they did address the existing ones, and provisions have been included to allow people to fix them, which they were never allowed to do in the past.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that, even though the City has indicated that it would not be profitable to run utilities with less than three units per acre, they could actually look at an area like this as a large Planned Unit Development (PUD), with the understanding that, while certain portions of it may not fit into that threshold, the overall density of the whole area may fit into it, and the City may need to determine whether it would be profitable for that entire area.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that right now the City is not looking at extending utilities to the whole area. The City has some existing high density developments in an area where it would be extremely expensive to extend utilities, however, if residents approach the City, they are doing agreements with them, and any specific situation would be considered.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that he would like the City to at least say that they will go back and look at the number of utility customers they would have in the entire area, with the understanding that the very low density is going to be cost prohibited if they were to just provide utilities for that area, but he believes the densities would be enough.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that she will take this information back to the City, but she wanted the Board to know that a lot of the residents do not want the City to take utilities near them, because they do not want to be obligated to hook up to the City.

            Commr. Cadwell felt that the residents are worried that, once the utilities are there, they will lose the densities that they have been promised and that there will be increased densities.

Commr. Hanson felt that it could be manipulated so that the services would go to those areas that have clustered development.

            Commr. Hill reiterated that the residents were very mixed about the sewer and septic idea, particularly those who were close to the lake and located in the lower densities. They do understand that, if their systems should fail for some reason, they would be able to revisit the issue with the City, but right now they would like to protect their current systems.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that the City of Leesburg is already using this Study Report, because there is a lot of land for sale in this area, and people are approaching them to be annexed into the City, and for utilities. She welcomes the opportunity to have a working document for everyone to use, so that people get identical answers. They strongly encourage the County to consider adopting this document and using the same densities, as outlined.

            Commr. Hanson stated that, even though it was pointed out that the clustering would be mostly in the high and medium density, she feels there is still an opportunity for clustering in the low and very low.

            Ms. McElhanon explained that they do not specifically address that in the report, but some of their new regulations allow for clustering, because the City did create a PUD zoning district where each one establishes its own type of development and density.

            Commr. Stivender stated that this is a great document, it contains a lot of information, and the Task Force did a great job. She wanted to commend County staff for working with the City, which shows that the County and the cities are working together to accomplish what needs to be done, when it comes to the growth that abuts the municipalities. She stated that the Study Report needs to go to the County’s Local Planning Agency (LPA), for their comments.

            Ms. McElhanon stated that the Sunnyside people wanted the City to make sure that the Board understands that this is not an annexation document, but a guide for future growth of the area, in all jurisdictions.

            Commr. Hill stated that she appreciates the hard work and dedication of the Sunnyside Task Force, and she appreciates Ms. McElhanon facilitating this study. With any document there are compromises, and she knows that both sides had to make compromises.

            Commr. Hill made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Pool, for the Board to forward this Study Report to the LPA for review and recommendation, and it will return to them as a Comprehensive Plan amendment, depending on how staff would like to do that, to either wait until the full Comprehensive Plan comes to them or, as a separate amendment, to be determined by staff.

            Under discussion, Commr. Cadwell wanted to know how this item will fit in with the Joint Planning Agreement (JPA) process the County is going through with the City of Leesburg, and other areas.

            Mr. Gregg Welstead, Deputy County Manager/Director of Growth Management, stated that staff received the Study Report for the Board’s consideration about two or three days before the Board’s last consideration of the Leesburg JPA. With the Board’s permission, he will bring that forward at this point in time, so that they can continue with the JPA and include provisions. He noted that the Leesburg JPA has been to the LPA, and it will now come to the Board most likely before any Comprehensive Plan changes.

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

            PUBLIC HEARING -

            RESOLUTION FOR FEE SCHEDULES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, addressed the Resolution for Fee Schedules for Fiscal Year 2004-2005 and stated that, on Exhibit E, based on the action taken by the Board last week, they need to change the tipping fees from $45 to $40.

            Commr. Hill pointed out that it looks like the County is dropping the wastewater treatment plant annual fees and questioned whether the County was no longer providing a service as far as the inspection fees.

            Ms. Blanche Hardy, Environmental Services Director, explained that the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has picked up additional inspections, so it is a duplication.

            Commr. Stivender opened the public hearing and called for public comment.

            Mr. Travis Whigham, Forest Hills Association, addressed the Board and suggested that, instead of giving a refund to the people in the County on solid waste disposal, the County should put this money aside in the budget for the future, in case the County has another large disaster, or storm, where it would require a lot of extra use for the waste facilities and, in case FEMA, or other agencies, are not able to help foot the bill for the disaster.

            Commr. Stivender called for further public comment. There being none, the public hearing portion of the meeting was closed.

            Commr. Cadwell made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Hanson, to approve Resolution 2004-156 for Fee Schedules for Fiscal Year 2004-2005, with the change to Exhibit E.

            Under discussion, Commr. Hanson stated, for Mr. Whigham’s benefit, that this is why the Board reduced the solid waste fees just a little bit this time, until they know what is happening next year, and to work through the budget year, but they did feel a small amount of decrease was certainly appropriate at this time.

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

            CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

            Language Educational Course

            Mr. Kenneth Howard Ellis, Lake Griffin Iles, and County protectorate of Picciola Road, Lake Unity Road, and Eagles Nest Road, addressed the Board and requested that the County consider an educational course for people who do not speak English, or Spanish, very well.

            Commr. Stivender suggested that this would be an idea that should be passed on to the School Board.

            Development in the Green Swamp

            Mr. Travis Whigham, Forest Hills Association, addressed the Board and stated that he has heard a lot of discussion about the Green Swamp, and he has never had an opportunity to visit that area. It was his understanding that developers are wanting to put three to four homes per acre in the Green Swamp, where right now this area allows five homes per acre. He wanted to know what kind of research has been done to determine what would happen if there was additional flooding due to development, because the homes are already flooded there. He also wanted to know whether developers will be held responsible for any flooding in the Green Swamp, or for any kind of flooding that may be created from their developments.

            Commr. Pool explained that anyone who builds in the Green Swamp is required to meet strict County and State regulations, and the developments that are already there have been approved at the correct densities. He offered to give Mr. Whigham a tour of the Green Swamp.

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

            INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS/LIBRARY SERVICES

            Ms. Wendy Breeden, Library Services Director, addressed the Board and explained that every three years the County renews their agreements with the cities to provide library services in the County. They have not made any major changes to the agreement, but they have added Montverde, and they have revised Section 7 to agree with changes that they have already made to the Lake County Code regarding the make up of the Library Board. They are also transitioning the reimbursement formula in Section 13. The libraries wanted to get away from the patron based formula, because they feel that it makes them compete too much with each other, and they have agreed that circulation is a work load that really reflects what they do. Ms. Breeden noted that, in another three years, staff will have to look at this again, because their biggest member library, which is Leesburg, grows at a faster rate, and they are going to have a tendency to draw a greater percentage of the funds and, while they want them to be compensated, they also want to make sure that the other cities are not hurt by it, therefore, they call it a transition formula.

            On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the request from Community Services for approval and execution of Interlocal Agreements related to provision of Library Services for the City of Fruitland Park, Town of Lady Lake, City of Leesburg, Town of Montverde, City of Mount Dora, City of Tavares, and City of Umatilla; including all of the changes in the provisions; pending execution by affected parties; and subject to County Attorney's approval.

            REPORTS - COUNTY ATTORNEY

            RATES FOR OUTSIDE COUNSEL

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained that staff has brought forth a list of outside counsel that they have used for legal work. In the annual report that staff gave the Board last month, they showed the Board what had been spent with each law firm. He would like the Board to approve the rates, and then staff will bring back an annual report, and each year they will update the rates.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the request from County Attorney for approval of rates for outside counsel for legal work.

            RESOLUTION/LOAN AGREEMENT/ONE-CENT SALES TAX

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, addressed the Loan Agreement for $15 Million Line of Credit using the one-cent sales tax as the pledged revenue and stated that this is the final document, which will implement the Loan Agreement. The only real impact today will be the cost for the bond counsel, and the fee for SunTrust, which was relatively minor. Any future draws on the Line of Credit would have to be done by the Board. They are anticipating with Covanta that any draws would probably be postponed until after the first of the year, so that they can take advantage of the bank qualified debt, but this is the money that would be used and reimbursed by the sales tax, to advance projects as they needed them.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the request from County Attorney for approval and authorization of Resolution 2004-157 and Loan Agreement for $15 Million Line of Credit using the one-cent sales tax as the pledged revenue.

            REPORTS - COUNTY MANAGER

            COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION COORDINATOR (CTC)

            TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED

 

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that Ms. Cindy Hall, Assistant County Manager, will be presenting some options for the Board relating to the desired role of the Board as the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) for the transportation disadvantaged program.

Mr. Neron stated that staff would like the Board to review these options, before they go out for proposals, as they anticipate doing later in the year.

            Commr. Stivender stated that the Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board met yesterday, and they would like to make sure that everything goes through them, as the County goes through a transition. She stated that this Board has been very diligent in making sure this program has worked over the years, and they want to make sure that they are apprised of any changes or decisions.

            Ms. Hall addressed the Board and stated that staff is requesting direction relating to the Board’s role as the CTC for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program. The contract with their current transportation provider will expire December 31, 2004. Staff had received previous direction from the Board to prepare and issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for transportation services for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program, however, with the establishment of the new Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), the Board may want to consider other alternatives. She explained that currently the Board serves as the CTC and is approved in that role until 2009. It is the Board’s responsibility, as CTC, to ensure that transportation disadvantaged services are provided; the MPO is charged with recommending a CTC to the State. Although the Board currently serves in that capacity, a non-governmental agency can serve as the CTC. The Board could request that the MPO consider this alternative. She included, as backup, a number of charts. She stated that Chart I shows the Transportation Responsibilities of the MPO, CTC, Local Coordinating Board, and State Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged; Chart II lists three types of possible CTCs - Non-Governmental CTC, MPO serves as CTC, or the Board of County Commissioners could continue serving as the CTC. She noted that some of the advantages and disadvantages are itemized in each of those headings. If the Board desires to remain as the CTC, staff has listed three different methods of providing service, which include either taking that service in-house, or in a partnership arrangement with some provider such as Sumter County, or they could contract out the transportation but retain certain administrative functions, or they could contract out the entire service.

            Commr. Stivender stated that, as Chair of the Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board, she wanted to point out that, as of December 31, 2004, they will no longer have a transportation provider (LifeStream), so they need to get the RFP out as soon as possible, so that they will have options for providers come January 1st. Commr. Stivender wanted to thank Ms. Hall, Mr. Jeff Cooper, Support Services Director, Program Analysis & Contract Management, and Mr. Ken Harley, Public Transportation Manager, Program Analysis & Contract Management, for diligently working with the staff at LifeStream.

            Mr. John Cherry, LifeStream Behavioral Center, stated that he wanted to update the Board on the services that they have been providing to the County. Mr. Cherry stated that LifeStream has been the County’s public transportation provider since the mid 1980s, and the program has grown tremendously over the years. Over the last couple of years, there have been huge cost increases associated with transportation, especially after the tragedy on September 11, 2001 (9-11) and gas prices increasing significantly. He stated that last fiscal year, they operated this program for the County at a loss of $340,000. There are a couple of contracts that are directly related to the County budget, the elderly services that they provide in conjunction with the AAA contract, and the 5311 TD disadvantaged services. They lost $289,000 of that $340,000 this past fiscal year. They continue to provide this service at a loss and, for the last two months, the loss has been $40,000 per month. He stated that the County has included in next fiscal year’s budget for Board approval a doubling of the dollars that the County will be putting into the program. Mr. Cherry stated that, in the Board’s consideration, he would ask them to consider providing them with some compensation to make up some of the loss ($289,000) that they incurred this last fiscal year. He stated that the Board has a number of good choices, and they are facing a December 31st deadline. As the Board knows, they are going to work with the County on a transition, so that services will continue until they are ready to transition those to other providers.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that everyone understands that the Board’s relationship with LifeStream is twofold and that the Board had hoped that the transportation would provide a little resource for them, because they provide the mental health services for the community. He stated that the Board never intended for them to lose money, and he has always felt that the Board under budgeted for mental health services. The Board needs to realize that LifeStream has tried to help them with the transportation, even though they provide mental health services, and maybe it is time for someone else to manage the transportation. The Board needs to do whatever is necessary to help LifeStream get back to where they were before they took on this task. The Board also needs to look at their commitment to mental health in the future.

            Commr. Stivender stated that between now and next week, when the Board discusses the budget, staff needs to look at these two separate items, transportation versus mental health, as explained by Commr. Cadwell and, if they have been under budgeting mental health over the years, they need to address that issue.

            Commr. Hanson pointed out that, in addition to that, the Board needs to continue to be a partner, as they try to get the State to be steadfast in providing the dollars at the local level.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board needs to be a better partner and understand that LifeStream is their provider for mental health, and to make sure that the legislature understands, when they are speaking on behalf of mental health in Lake County, that LifeStream is their provider.

            During the Board’s discussion, it was pointed out that Lake County receives one of the lowest allocation of dollars for mental health and, because they are dealing with the two issues, transportation and mental health, they felt that there was a possibility that the State was looking differently at their mental health needs.

            Mr. Neron stated that staff has received a letter from Mr. Cherry that they have under review, and they will have a report back to the Board at the budget hearing next week.

            Commr. Hanson stated that, in getting back to the CTC issue, she still feels that they will have more control over the system, if the Board of County Commissioners are actually the CTC.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that the MPO is the only vehicle to have the cities involved with the transportation issue, and perhaps the County can get a financial commitment from them.            Ms. Hall explained that, in Pinellas County, the MPO itself is the CTC. There are a number of MPOs that have other entities as the CTC.

            Mr. Ken Harley, Public Transportation Manager, explained that Mr. David McDonald serves as the staff representative for the Pinellas County MPO, and they perform the duties of the MPO and CTC. Mr. McDonald has indicated that, at the current time, they have no problem with the dual responsibilities. He did note that the MPO has to evaluate the CTC on an annual basis but, from their program, it functions very well.

            Commr. Stivender explained that, if the Board puts the CTC under the MPO, all it does is add the involvement of the cities, and they need to be involved in this issue. She noted that the MPO is not having a meeting this month, and the Board cannot wait until October to make a decision.

            Mr. Neron explained that the MPO currently has a transportation study underway, and one of the recommendations will be to establish fixed routes in some of the areas. From an efficiency standpoint, in terms of staffing and administration, to have it all under one entity would be a better approach. Right now the County has the full financial responsibility and, if they get into fixed routes that benefit primarily cities, there may have to be some cost sharing. Staff would suggest that they refer this to the MPO, with the MPO having the role of choosing the CTC, to provide this service. The RFP is almost ready and can be placed on the agenda of the MPO, so they can move forward with it.

            As Chairman of the MPO, Commr. Stivender recommended that a special MPO meeting be scheduled to discuss the RFP.

            Commr. Cadwell pointed out that, if the Board turns the power over to the MPO, to some extent it will be out of their hands, and it would make him very nervous if the MPO decides that they want to be the provider. Commr. Hanson felt that the Board should absolutely be in charge, but the question would be the contribution of funding from the cities.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that one of the problems is that the Board is not in charge anymore. The CTC is only the provider. When it came into existence, the MPO automatically became in charge, and they evaluate the CTC and make recommendations to the State so, if the County remains the CTC, the MPO will be evaluating the job that they are doing in providing transportation. They still set the priorities, they still do the planning; the CTC role is a provider role and not a policy making role. The State gives the ultimate approval but the MPO is the body that makes the recommendations to the State. For clarification, Mr. Minkoff explained that, before they had the MPO, they had the role as the planning agency for the transportation disadvantaged, and they had the opportunity to hire someone as a CTC, which they did for a long time, or to do it themselves. In Mr. Harley’s report, it shows that throughout the State about a third of the counties act as the CTC, and most of them are non-MPO counties, and most of the CTCs throughout the State are not-for-profit organizations, or private companies, that do transportation work, and then there is the one MPO that is the CTC. The MPO is always going to be the policy making entity that reports to the State.

            Commr. Stivender stated that she would like to go back to her idea of a special MPO meeting and discuss this issue with the cities, so that they can expedite the RFP. She would like this to be a single item for the meeting, to be held the first week in October.

            Mr. Minkoff noted that, under the MPO by-laws, the Chair can call a MPO meeting.

            Mr. Neron stated that it was his understanding that the Board would like the MPO to select the CTC and be in charge of the RFP process.

            Mr. Minkoff explained that, if the County’s contract was terminating this year instead of 2009, and it was time to automatically choose a new CTC, then that would be a MPO function to make a recommendation to the State; it would not be a Board of County Commissioners’ function.

            At this point, it was noted that staff was clear on their direction.

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

            RESOLUTION/LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN

            Mr. Fletcher Smith, Director of Community Services, addressed the Board to discuss the Resolution amending the Local Housing Assistance Plan for State Fiscal Years 2003-2004, 2004-2005, and 2005-2006, to include a Disaster Mitigation/Recovery Strategy. Mr. Smith stated that, with the several storms that have passed through the County, there are a number of questions about whether the County would be able to assist homeowners with some of the storm recovery efforts. He met with Ms. Nicie Parks, Affordable Housing Coordinator, and Ms. Cheryl Thomas, Housing and Community Development Director, to look at any funding that may be available through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program that could be used for emergency disaster recovery. Ms. Parks developed a relatively good plan where they could tap into the recaptured funds that they receive back from homeowners who refinance their homes that have been either renovated or purchased with SHIP dollars. Mr. Smith reviewed the list of needs outlined in the Resolution and noted a maximum award of $3,000.00. He wanted everyone to understand that the homes that will be eligible for this funding will be homes, not mobile homes, or manufactured homes, unless the manufactured homes have the DCA insignia on them. Currently they have approximately $471,000 in recaptured funds that they could use to fund this program. Staff feels that they will get plenty of applications, and it will be on a first come, first serve basis, and it will be based on the income guidelines that they currently use with the SHIP program. It was noted that the applicants can be individuals that have never been in the SHIP program.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the request for approval and authorization of Resolution 2004-158 to amend the Local Housing Assistance Plan for State Fiscal Years 2003-2004, 2004-2005, and 2005-2006 to include a Disaster Mitigation/Recovery Strategy.

            Mr. Smith stated that the information will be sent to the State SHIP office for their approval and, once they get State approval, staff will advertise this information. They will not take applications until they receive State approval.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, noted that staff received a call from the DCA last Friday asking questions in this area, so they are aware that several of the counties are following this process. With the emergencies, he feels that they can expedite the process.

            Commr. Stivender reported that she had received a letter from Massey Services in Maitland, and they are offering free service to individual citizens who are unable to pay, so this works into Mr. Smith’s program, with mosquito control and bug control after the hurricane. If anyone needs this assistance, they can get in touch with Mr. Smith and his staff.

            Commr. Hanson questioned whether there was a centralized effort to lend generators and chainsaws to the northern part of the State, and even Alabama, and Mr. Neron explained that most of volunteer resources are coordinated through the State Department of Emergency Management through their tracker system.

            PUBLIC LANDS ACQUISITION ADVISORY COUNCIL (PLAAC)

            Mr. Gregg Welstead, Deputy County Manager/Director of Growth Management, stated that the Public Lands Acquisition Advisory Council (PLAAC) has put together a draft Resolution for a process to handle public lands acquisition, in the event that the referendum should pass in November. The criteria established in the process is modeled to a great extent on Volusia County and Seminole County areas where the program has been implemented successfully and has been in effect for a long period of time. Mr. Welstead pointed out that he did not think that the Board should adopt this Resolution, because it would go into effect today and, after talking with Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, about the process after selection, the steps outlined do not necessarily follow the County’s existing policies and procedures, and he would like an opportunity to review them. If the referendum should pass, they can then go forward and put this in place as a policy, or procedure, or resolution/ordinance. Mr. Welstead explained that this gives the PLAAC the ability to publicly say that there is some sort of established criteria, but it has not been officially adopted.

            The Board discussed the direction they should take at this time noting that they had a consensus to put the referendum on the ballot but, because they did not have an opportunity to really review the information, and they did not want to advertise it at this point in time because it could give the public the wrong perception, Commr. Stivender suggested that the Board members review this item and present their comments to Mr. Welstead and Mr. Minkoff and that the item be brought back for discussion at the October 5, 2004 Board meeting.

            Mr. Minkoff explained that the main part of the Resolution involves the ranking criteria and management criteria, and how they are going to use the funds, and the Board could focus a little less on the processes, which he felt could be worked out in the next couple of weeks. The information is in the referendum for the ballot, but the Resolution includes more detail.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that staff can separate the election criteria and the actual process and give the Board a new document for review.

            After further discussion, it was noted that the PLAAC will meet on Wednesday, October 6, 2004, whereas the Board will meet on October 5, 2004, so the Board will have an opportunity to meet with staff, with their questions and comments, before the PLAAC meeting.

            DEBRIS DISPOSAL UPDATE

            Commr. Stivender asked Mr. Jim Stivender, Director of Public Works, to update the Board on the debris disposal situation in the County. She has been receiving numerous phone calls every day about the pickup of storm debris in specific areas, and she has reminded everyone that they need to be patient because the contractors are working from dawn to dusk to help expedite the pickup process.

            Mr. Stivender addressed the Board and reviewed the Hurricane Frances Tree Debris Removal Progress map noting that the worst hit, by volume of damage, was the “red” area, which is east Lake County, with the least damage being in the south end of the County. He pointed out the areas where they have already collected debris, which accounts for approximately 105,000 cubic yards, which is about 30% of what they believe is the total, as of this date. Most of this is the pickup and hand debris, and the auditors are watching this very closely, along with FEMA, to make sure they get a good sound number. He reviewed the Summary of Daily Debris Removal information noting that the volume declines but the weight increases, because they are working on the heavier debris in the second pass, and they hope to complete the process in the third pass. Staff is looking at completing the first pass in the middle of October, with the middle of November being the final phase. He asked that everyone be patient, because they are addressing about 300,000 to 350,000 cubic yards of material. In talking with FEMA, he has found that they like the system being used in Lake County, which is moving very smoothly compared to other counties around the State. In regards to those individuals who are hauling their own debris, once the County qualifies the grinding part of the process, he believes that will be reimbursable. He stated that right now the mulch is going in a big pile, and staff will determine options for using it at the incinerator. Mr. Stivender stated that he hoped to be able to give the Board a weekly update throughout this process.

            Mr. Stivender addressed the issue of flooding in the Lake Mack area noting that the County has already cleaned out some of the swales that had filled in over the last two years with debris and other things, but it is flowing again. He noted that staff is working in other areas of the South Lake County, and they will go to the next phase in the process, if necessary. There are a lot of mosquitoes, as he explained and, even though there is no indication of mosquitoes with disease, the County does have a contract with the State, if needed, but they are watching their numbers very carefully. He explained that staff has treated the areas over the weekend where there is standing water.

            Mr. Travis Whigham questioned whether it was possible for landowners that have acreage to burn off some of their own debris, such as tree branches, and Commr. Stivender suggested he meet with Mr. Stivender after the meeting to get the correct information.

            Commr. Stivender asked Ms. Blanche Hardy, Director of Environmental Services, to update the Board on the drop-off volumes, and she wanted to commend her staff for doing an excellent job handling all of the situations that arose during this time. She stated that Ms. Nikki Foster, Special Programs Administrator, Environmental Services, and Mr. Gary Debo, Waste Management Facilities Director, were phenomenal.

            Ms. Blanche Hardy, Director of Environmental Services, addressed the Board and reviewed charts that reflected the residential drop-off volumes. As shown in the chart, Saturdays are the days that they are getting the most customers and, to date, they have addressed 7,319 individual customers. They are reaching capacity but, in looking at the charts, they definitely want to continue to be open on Saturdays and Sundays. They have worked with Grubbs Emergency Services (Grubbs) on shutdowns, so they can empty the facilities, and they are looking at doing those Thursday and Friday, if possible, so that they can be open again on Saturday. Staff agrees with Mr. Stivender that they are at 30%, so they need to get that material out of there now, so they can address what is going to continue to come in to the facility. The material will have to be ground, and then Grubbs will transport it to the PEAR Park, and to their Pine Lakes facilities. The incinerator is in a partial shutdown right now for maintenance and, as of today, they are in a total shutdown for possibly a week. Ms. Hardy stated that they will stockpile for them as long as they can but the mulch turns into soil, and it holds a lot of moisture. Then it becomes inappropriate material for them, but they are trying to create as much material for them as they can and will take it to them as makeup material. They also have a lot of agricultural citizens who have requested the mulch, so people in the animal husbandry business can get in touch with them.

            Mr. Gary Debo, Waste Management Facilities Director, stated that staff is looking for alternative disposal means for the mulch. He would prefer to find a beneficial use for the mulch rather than burn it at the incinerator. The incinerator will probably be going through this outage for about the next three weeks, as Mr. Debo explained. Staff is working on an agreement with Watts Dairy, which has nine barns, and they said they could take 14 semi loads for each barn. The City of Eustis also has a mulching/compost operation, and they are trying to see if they can get beneficial uses inside the County to dispose of it. He noted that the recycling from the cities would go to the County’s credits. All of the old mulch is being used to stabilize the ground for these mulching operations, and he is hoping they can use that for recycling credits, too.

            Commr. Stivender stated that she has received several calls from ferneries, or major agriculture industries, along with the call from Ms. Cummings, Uni-Flora in Okahumpka, that have substantial damage, and she suggested that they talk to the FEMA representatives. She wanted to make sure that staff does not forget to work with them.

            Mr. Debo stated that those types of materials relating to the ferneries and others, as noted, are Class III material, and the CR 33 pit is a Class III pit. There are also some Class III pits in Orange County, where their disposal expense will be greatly reduced, if they visit those pits.

            Mr. Welstead stated that he had contact with Ms. Cummings yesterday, and he put her in touch with the FEMA representative. There is a public assistance group, a citizen’s group, as well as an agricultural group, who are assisting with the problems.

            RESOLUTIONS/COUNTY ROAD MAINTENANCE

            LAKE KATHRYN/BLOCK GRANT

 

            Commr. Hanson referred back to Tab 15 regarding the Resolution accepting roads into the County Road Maintenance System, Lake Kathryn Community Development Block Grant Phase III, Project Number 2004-04, and stated that she was glad to see some of those streets being brought into the County Maintenance System, specifically Georgia Street, which is a very important road in that area.

            Commr. Stivender stated that the questions that the Board has brought up before about the programs on the County maintained and non-County maintained roads is coming back to the them in December, or January.

            REPORTS - COMMISSIONER CADWELL - DISTRICT #5

            FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES

            Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that the Florida Association of Counties cancelled their legislative conference, due to all of the devastation to the different counties, but the Board of Directors will still meet by conference call on Thursday, at 4:30 p.m., and anyone that is a member of the Association is welcome to listen in on the call.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, reminded the Board members to only listen and not to engage in discussion amongst themselves during that meeting.

            ANNOUNCEMENTS

            Commr. Stivender congratulated Commr. Cadwell on being a new grandfather. His new grandson weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces. 

            ADJOURNMENT

            There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:39 a.m.

 

 

 

 

_________________________________

                                                                                    DEBBIE STIVENDER, CHAIRMAN

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

________________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK