A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

MARCH 1, 2005

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 1, 2005, 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: Jennifer Hill, Chairman; Catherine C. Hanson, Vice Chairman; Debbie Stivender; 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 Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

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

RECOGNITION

The Chairman recognized and welcomed to the meeting Sheriff Chris Daniels and Ms. Nancy Fullerton, a member of the Lake County Water Authority, who were present in the audience.

AGENDA UPDATE

Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that there was an Addendum No. 1 to the Agenda, containing an item under the County Manager’s Departmental Business and a Report under his business.  He stated that he would like to add to the Agenda a discussion regarding the FY2005 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), noting that his office had just been notified about the grant, and, in order for it to meet deadlines, it needed to be acted on by the Board this date, should they desire to pursue it.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he would like to add to the Agenda a change to the lease that the County has with the American Legion Hall, in Umatilla, regarding insurance requirements.  He stated that it would need a vote by the Board.

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

CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

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

Bonds – Contractor

Request for approval of Contractor Bonds – New, Cancellation, and Riders, as follows:

New

4214-05           Elgenia S. Insalaco (Residential)

5701-05           Douglas Griffin d/b/a Douglas Griffin Roofing

5736-05           Landon Burr d/b/a Burr & Tiegs Electrical Contracting, Inc.

5795-05           Calvin Andes (Electrical)

6109-05           Brian D. Rossell d/b/a Central Florida Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

6239-05           James E. Milburn, Jr. d/b/a  J & R Roofing, LLC

6240-05           Wayne Deaton d/b/a Fayette Home Repairs

6341-05           Robert L. Strong d/b/a Robert & Bonnie Strong Enterprises, Inc.

6342-05           Paul Bursztynski d/b/a P H B Electric, Inc.

6343-05           Jim Hillman d/b/a Hillman & Company, LLC

6344-05           Gary Coutier d/b/a Courtier Industries, Inc.

6345-05           Bruce Randall Prince d/b/a Prince Land Services, Inc.

6346-05           Mike Hunter d/b/a Hunter Roofing, LLC

6347-05           Rickey J. Russell d/b/a Russell Homes

6348-05           Robert Pruitt, Jr. d/b/a Atlantis Water Services, Inc.

6349-05           Glenn J. Gallagher

6350-05           Dave Loden d/b/a Dave Loden Construction, Inc.

6352-05           Robert B. Smith d/b/a “B” Electrical

6353-05           Mathias Henry Kirbach, III d/b/a AmPro Builders, Inc.

 

Cancellation

 

4870-05                      James J. Cooke (Aluminum)

 

Riders

 

4262-05           Principal changed from Kelton Braxton d/b/a Kelton Electrical Service to Kelton’s Electical Service, Inc.

 

5864-05           Principal changed from Ronald L. Vail to Ronald L. Vail Plumbing, Inc.

 

6165-05                      A. R. Hartsfield (Electrical Contractor)

Bond Number is changed from 047712 20646709 to 047712 66646709

 

            Satisfaction and Release of Fines

 

Request for approval of Satisfaction and Release of Fines, as follows:

 

Order of Fine (2004080125), in the amount of $1,000.00, dated January 27, 2005, Medallion Convenience Stores, Inc. and Tweedle Oil Company, Inc.  The Judgment-Creditor acknowledges receipt of $1,000.00, as payment in full of said indebtedness, and hereby acknowledges satisfaction of said Judgment and directs that said Judgment be canceled of record.

 

Order of Fine (2004080132, in the amount of $1,000.00, dated January 27, 2005, Medallion Development Corporation.  The Judgment-Creditor acknowledges receipt of $1,000.00, as payment in full of said indebtedness, and hereby acknowledges satisfaction of said Judgment and directs that said Judgment be canceled of record.

 

            List of Warrants

 

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.

 

Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases, for the month ending December 31, 2004, in the amount of $102,795.23.  Same period, last year:  $184,002.74; and for the month ending January 31, 2005, in the amount of $137,812.24.  Same period, last year:  $191,974.43.

 

            Property Placed on Lands Available List

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of property placed on the Lands Available List.  Lake County has until April 11, 2005, to purchase property from the Lands Available List before it is available to the public.

 

Ordinance from City of Clermont

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Ordinance No. 497-M, from the City of Clermont, annexing a vacant parcel of land into the City limits of the City of Clermont.  Passed and Ordained the 11th day of January, 2005, by the City Council of the City of Clermont, Florida.

 

            Meeting Notice from the Southwest Florida Water Management District

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Meeting Notice from the Southwest Florida Water Management District – Agenda for Governing Board Meeting scheduled for January 25-26, 2005, at 9:00 a.m., at the Bartow Service Office, located at 170 Century Boulevard, Bartow, Florida  33830-7700; and a set of approved Minutes from the Governing Board Meeting that was held on November 16, 2004, in Arcadia, Florida.

 

            Notices Before the Florida Public Service Commission

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Notices Before the Florida Public Service Commission, as follows:

            (a)        Application of Raintree Utilities, Inc., for Authority to Transfer Water System Providing Water Service to Silver Oaks Subdivision, in Lake County, Florida, to Applicant; and for Amendment of Water Certificate No. 539-W, to Add Territory to its Certificated Area in Lake County, Florida - Docket No. 050028-WU.

 

            Objections to the Application must be made in writing and filed with the Director, Division of the Commission Clerk & Administrative Services, Florida Public Service Commission, 2540 Shumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0850, with a copy to Martin S. Friedman, Esquire, Rose, Sundstrom & Bentley, LLP, 600 S. North Lake Boulevard, Suite 160, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701, within 30 days from the date of this Notice.  The objection must state the grounds for the objection with particularity.

            (b)       Application for Certificates to Provide Water and Wastewater Service in Lake County, by Hidden Valley SPE LLC d/b/a Orange Lake; Docket No. 041141-WS, Order No. PSC-05-0059-CO-WS, issued January 18, 2005.

 

            Consummating Order by the Commission:  By Order No. PSC-04-1270-PAA-WS, issued December 22, 2004, the Commission proposed to take certain action.  Order has become effective and final as of January 18, 2005.

 

            (c)        Docket No. 050028-WU, Application for Authority to Charge for Water Service in Lake County, Florida, by Raintree Utilities, Inc., dated January 21, 2005.  Notice is hereby given, on January 11, 2005, that Raintree Utilities, Inc. (Utility) filed an application with the Florida Public Service Commission.  The Utility has entered into an agreement with RTG Properties, the owner of the water system serving the Silver Oaks Subdivision, for the transfer of the water system to the Utility.  The Utility has requested the Commission’s approval to charge the 39 customers located in the Silver Oaks Subdivision, in Lake County, Florida, the Commission approved rates and charges for water service provided by the Utility.  Comments regarding the Utility, the rates that the Utility is requesting authorization to charge, or requests to be placed on the mailing list for this case, may be directed to:  Director, Division of the Commission Clerk & Administrative Services, Florida Public Service Commission, 2540 Shumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, Florida  32399-0850.

 

            Letter from St. Johns River Water Management District

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of letter from St. Johns River Water Management District to Lake County and Interested Persons, and a copy of the attachment that will appear in the newspaper, relating to Water Oak Utilities, Application No. 95654.

 

            COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

 

            Commr. Hanson asked that Tab 15, a request from Public Works for approval and authorization to award CR 46A Widening and Resurfacing Project No. 2004-09, Bid Number 05-055, to Art Walker Construction; and to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $2,168,935.40, from the Infrastructure Sales Tax Fund, be pulled, for discussion.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, asked that Tab 18, a request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Bella Collina West and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Bella Collina West final plat; accept a Performance Bond, in the amount of $13,769,113.00; and execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Ginn-Pine Island GP, LLC, be pulled, for discussion, as well.

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

            Budget

            Request from Budget for approval of the following:

1.         Budget Transfer – County Library System Fund, Department of Community Services, Library Services Division, in the amount of $40,000.00, is requested. Transfer $40,000.00 ($5,000.00 from Books, Publications and Dues; $10,000.00 from Machinery and Equipment; $5,000.00 from Books, Publications and Library Materials; and $20,000.00 from Library Materials Not Inventoried) to Contractual Services. Additional funds are needed in Contractual Services for the consultant fee for the Long Range Plan of Services for Libraries, and for the contract with Unique Management Services, to assist with the recovery of library overdue items and fines, which was approved by the Board of County Commissioners on February 1, 2005. Funds available in above listed line items.

 

2.         Budget Transfer – Resort/Development Tax Fund, Department of Economic Development/Tourism, in the amount of $250,000.00, is requested. Transfer $250,000.00 to Promotions. Dollars budgeted for television and radio has exceeded projected budgets. In addition, the Department has been increasing the advertising of more events and sponsoring more events to promote Lake County. Additional monies are needed in Promotions, to be able to continue this increased advertising and promotion. Funds available in Special Reserve.

 

            Community Services

 

            Request for approval to submit grant application for Library Services and Technology Act Grant, for purchase of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Patron self-checkout stations.

 

            Request for approval to submit grant application, and to authorize signature on partnership agreement for Library Services and Technology Act Grant, for continuation of Lake County Library System Family Literacy Program.

 

            Request for approval of Lake County Policy regarding Library Impact Fee Application and Distribution Process, and approval to establish March 1 of each year, except for 2005, as project application deadline; and to establish April 1 application deadline for 2005.

 

            Request for approval for county staff to assist with and participate in fundraising for new Citrus Ridge Library and Cooper Memorial Library capital building projects; and assistance from County Commissioners in fundraising efforts, where appropriate.

 

            Environmental Services

 

            Request for approval to return $5,000.00 to Lake County Water Authority, for proposed Rainwater Capture System; and to retain authorization to pursue completion of project, using previously allocated Board funds.

 

            Growth Management

 

            Request for approval and execution of Release of Fine, for property owned by Kathleen H. Fuchs and Marjorie L. Summers.

 

            Request for approval and execution of Release of Fine recorded in error, for property owned by Raymond Erjavic.

 

            Procurement Services

 

             Request for approval to award contract for Emergency Management Consulting Services, on Homeland Security Grant Award Program for Public Safety Department, to General Physics Corporation, for $98,500.00, in accordance with Florida State Contract No. 973-001-00-1.

 

            Public Safety

 

            Request for approval of Resolution No. 2005-24, setting annual wire line E911 fee for FY 2005-2006 at fifty cents ($.50), pursuant to requirements of Florida Statute 365.171.

 

            Public Works

 

            Request for approval and execution of Agreement with City of Fruitland Park, for portions of Picciola Road (No. 5710) and Picciola Cutoff (No. 5509), adjacent to city limits.

 

            Request for approval to accept Deed for Road Right of Way; Deed for Trail Improvements; Non-Exclusive Easement Deeds; Statutory Quitclaim Deeds; and Statutory Warranty Deeds, as follows:

 

            Deed for Road Right of Way

 

            Guber, Donald and Ann (As Trustees)

            Old CR 50 (1551)

            South Lake Trail

 

            Deed for Trail Improvements

 

            Guber, Donald and Ann (As Trustees)

            Old CR 50 (1551)

            South Lake Trail


            Non-Exclusive Easement Deeds

 

            The Deacon Shores Partnership

            Libby Road West (2130)

            Clay to Pave

 

            Center Lake Properties, Inc.

            Old CR 50 (1551)

            South Lake Trail

 

            Statutory Quitclaim Deeds

 

            Arrowhead Estates Homeowners Association, Inc.

            C 455 (2354)

            South Lake Trail

 

            Cross Creek Ranch & Grove, Inc.

            N. Buckhill Road (2739)

            Road Project

 

            Miller, James T.

            Old 441 (0500A)

            Site Plan

 

            Statutory Warranty Deeds

 

            Hubbard, Arthur and Jean

            CR 455 (2354)

            South Lake Trail

 

            McComb, Joseph

            Edward Road (7009)

            Road Project

 

            McComb, Peter S.

            Edwards Road (7009)

            Road Project

 

            McComb, Peter S.

            Edwards Road (7009)

            Road Project

 

            Dunstan, Mary Lee McComb &

            McComb, Joseph Allen &

            McComb, Peter Stuart &

            McComb, David Frampton &

            McComb, John Walker

            Edwards Road (7009)

            Road Project

 

            Dunstan, Mary Lee

            Edwards Road (7009)

            Road Project

 

            Shamrock Homes, Inc.

            Lakeshore Drive (5151)

            Road Project

 

            Request for approval and authorization to award Duda Road (No. 3168) Intersection Improvement Project No. 2005-04, Bid No. 05-054, to Professional Dirt Service; and to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $537,616.00, from Road Impact Fee Fund. Commission District 3 – Benefit District 2.

 

            Request for approval of Supplemental Agreement No. 3, in the amount of $74,683.50, related to South Clermont Connector Project.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to accept final plat for Bella Collina East and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on Bella Collina East final plat; accept Performance Bond, in the amount of $1,880,388.00; and execute Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Ginn-Pine Island GP, LLC. Bella Collina East consists of 84 lots – Commission District 3.

 

            Request for adoption and execution of Resolution No. 2005-25, facilitating South Lake Trail/Lake Minneola Trail Phase II Construction Project; execution of Local Agency Program Agreement with Florida Department of Transportation, for South Lake Trail/Lake Minneola Trail Phase II Construction Project (FDOT FPN 241438-1-58-01); and authorization to advertise for bids, for South Lake Trail/Lake Minneola Trail Phase II Project No.2005-05, at an estimated cost of $2,014,371.65. Through the Agreement, the Florida Department of Transportation will fund $1,613,217.00, for construction, and the Renewal Sales Tax Capital Projects Fund will fund the remaining $401,154.65 – Commission District 2.

 

            Request for adoption and authorization for Chairman and County Attorney to sign Grant Agreement with City of Clermont, upon approval and return of said Agreement, relating to contribution of Infrastructure Sales Tax Funds for Community Recreation Projects.

 

            PUBLIC WORKS

            CR 46A WIDENING AND RESURFACING PROJECT

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that she asked that this request be pulled from the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, for discussion.  She stated that it deals with the widening and resurfacing of CR 46A and, although she feels the resurfacing aspect of it is long overdue, given the fact that the eastern part of the road may be eliminated, questioned whether it really needed to be widened at this time, or at least whether all of it needed to be widened.

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, addressed the Board stating that, with the amount of heavy traffic that travels CR 46A, staff felt having paved shoulders would be a good investment, even for the short period of time that they will be in place, which he noted may only be five to ten years.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval and authorization to award CR 46A Widening and Resurfacing Project No. 2004-09, Bid Number 05-055, to Art Walker Construction; and to encumber and expend funds, in the amount of $2,168,935.40, from the Infrastructure Sales Tax Fund.  Commission District 4.

            PUBLIC WORKS

            FINAL PLAT FOR BELLA COLLINA WEST

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that he asked that this request be pulled from the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, for discussion.  He stated that it was a request for approval of the final plat for Bella Collina West, however, noted that staff had pointed out to the developers that there was an old underlying agricultural plat that contained a right of way that they neglected to vacate in a timely fashion.  He stated that the project got all the way to the final plat process, when it was realized that the right of way impacted 31 of the lots in the development; therefore, in order to allow the project to go forward, the County entered into an agreement with the developers, which states that they cannot sell those 31 lots, until they get the vacation completed.  He stated that the developers have filed for the vacation and it will be coming before the Board for approval in one to two months.  He stated that he just wanted to bring the matter to the Board’s attention.

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Bella Collina West and all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Bella Collina West final plat; accept a Performance Bond, in the amount of $13,769,113.00; and execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Ginn-Pine Island GP, LLC. Bella Collina West consists of 328 lots – Commission District 3.

            PRESENTATION – MARCH OF DIMES

            Ms. Kelly Pisciotta, Chairman of the Lake-Sumter Board of Directors for the March of Dimes, addressed the Board stating that she has been a March of Dimes volunteer for over 20 years.  She stated that babies being born prematurely are on the rise and that a local resident, Mr. Gus Grizzard, would be showing the Board a video about his daughter, who was born prematurely, and her stay in the hospital.  She stated that last year county employees raised over $7,000 for the March of Dimes, helping the County raise a total of $220,000, in the fight to save babies.  She thanked the Board and everyone involved in raising said funds, however, noted that the March of Dimes looks for their continued support.  She stated that they would love to see the County out in full force this year, at which time she noted that an individual could take an envelope that she would provide to them and collect money and be considered a “walker”, even if that individual cannot participate in the March of Dimes Walk America, scheduled to be held April 30, 2005, in Wooten Park.

            Mr. Grizzard addressed the Board stating that he was invited to share with them the story about his daughter, Olivia, who was born May 10, 2005, at 27 weeks, weighing 2 lbs. 11 ozs.  He stated that his family spent 71 days in the hospital with his daughter and, while there, shared a lot of triumphs with other parents, as well as tears.  He stated that his family was one of the lucky ones, because his daughter is now doing fine, which he feels is a direct result of the involvement of the March of Dimes and organizations like it.  He stated that he could not speak highly enough for the Lake-Sumter March of Dimes volunteers, noting that they stayed in constant contact with his family, checking with them on a daily basis.  He charged the Commissioners, personally, and as a group, to use their influence to bring awareness to the March of Dimes, at which time he played a brief video showing a montage of events that happened during his daughter’s 71 day stay in the hospital.  He thanked everyone that has been involved with the March of Dimes and personally challenged those who have not to get involved.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to place on the Agenda approval of a Resolution supporting the March of Dimes.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2005-26, in support of the March of Dimes, to be presented at a later date.

            PRESENTATIONS/PERSONAL APPEARANCES

 

            The Chairman presented Employee Awards, as follows, with Ms. Cindy Hall, Assistant County Manager, commenting about each employee’s

 

service to the County:

 

            EMPLOYEE AWARDS

 

            Presentation of Award to Employees with Five Years of Service

 

Truman E. McCall, II, Equipment Operator II, Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area III  (Not Present)

 

Neal J. Sandy, Senior Building Inspector, Growth Management/Building Services/South Lake Annex

 

William C. Cork, Jr., Firefighter/EMT, Public Safety/Fire and Rescue

(Not Present)

 

Susan F. Goldfuss, Staff Assistant, Public Works/Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning

Office

 

Noah W. Hollis, Jr., Firefighter/EMT, Public Safety/Fire and Rescue

(Not Present)

 

Michael A. Quick, Firefighter/Paramedic, Public Safety/Fire and Rescue

 

Presentation of Award to Employee with Twenty Years of Service

 

Dale A. King, Energy Maintenance Technician, Facilities Development & Management/Facilities Management/Energy Management

 

Presentation of Award to Employee with Twenty-Five Years of Service

 

Teresa E. Dunham, Permitting Specialist, Growth Management/Building Services/Main Office

 

BOARD/COMMITTEE PRESENTATIONS

 

            The Chairman presented Board/Committee Certificates, as follows:

 

            CERTIFICATES

 

            Affordable Housing Advisory Committee

 

            Mary Walker - for service from 2001-2005

 

Citizen Transportation Advisory Committee

 

Lorraine Johnson - for service from 1998-2004

Dr. Marcella Vogelmann-Peper - for service from 1998-2004 (Not Present)

Jan Miller - for service from 2000-2004 (Not Present)

Tom Winn - for service from 1998-2004

Desmond Byrne - for service from 1998-2004 (Not Present)

Elmer Webb - for service from 1998-2004 (Not Present)

Lee Hokr - for service from 1998-2004

Susana Gibson - for service from 1998-2004

Gerald Wayne - for service from 1999-2004 (Not Present)

Thomas Reid - for service from 1998-2004 (Not Present)

Gordon Warner - for service from 2002-2004 (Not Present)

 

Elder Affairs Coordinating Council

 

Nancy Smith for service from 2003-2005 (Not Present)

 

PUBLIC HEARING

 

ORDINANCE ENTITLED TEMPORARY HOUSING DURING CONSTRUCTION

 

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

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA; AMENDING SECTION 10.02.02, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED TEMPORARY HOUSING DURING CONSTRUCTION; DELETING THE REQIREMENT THAT MOBILE HOMES MUST MEET THE CRITERIA OF 3.01.02(A)(1)(a. THROUGH d.); PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

            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 portion of the meeting.

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Ordinance No. 2005-19, amending Section 10.02.02, LDRs, Temporary Housing During Construction, as presented.

            CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

            Mr. Raymond Handloser, representing the majority of homeowners on Southglen Drive, in Silver Glen Subdivision, addressed the Board requesting that the County set up a special assessment district for the purpose of engaging Lake Utility Services, Inc, an affiliate of Utilities, Inc. (a private company), to supply water to each homestead located within the Silver Glen Subdivision.  He submitted, for the record, a packet containing petitions signed by the homeowners requesting the special assessment district, a map of the area, and a letter from Mr. Bryan K. Gongre, Assistant Operations Manager, Lake Utility Services, Inc., indicating the preliminary costs for providing said service, being $22,460.00.

            Mr. John Heinrich, a resident of Silver Glen Subdivision, addressed the Board stating that he spends approximately $170.00 per month to clean his water and it still is not drinkable and it has ruined his icemaker and a lot of his family’s clothes.  He stated that he has been fighting this problem for six years and is just asking for clean water for his family.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that, if the Board were to approve the special assessment, there would have to be a public hearing and the County would need to notify everybody concerned.

            It was the consensus of the Board that staff take the necessary steps to set up a special assessment district, for the purpose of obtaining potable water for the residents of Silver Glen Subdivision, as requested.

                                                                                                ------------------------------

            Mr. Roy Hunter, representing the Northeast Lake Chamber of Commerce, addressed the Board asking that the County help the residents in the northeast part of the County with transportation.  He suggested that the County survey the people that are presently being served and then set up regular routes for them.  He suggested that staff discuss the matter with Mr. Ken Harley, Public Transportation Manager, Program Analysis and Contract Management, noting that he feels a lot of the transportation problems could be solved, without additional costs to the County.  He stated that retired people are on a declining income, rather than a fixed income, and one-third of the County’s population is 60 years of age or older and retired.  He stated that they pay their taxes and deserve more than what they are getting for what they are paying.  He stated that they need the County to come up with something regarding transportation and less taxes, or at least no additional taxes.

            Commr. Hill informed Mr. Hunter that the issue of transportation is on the Agenda for the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting scheduled for March 15, 2005, for discussion.

                                                                                                ------------------------------

            Mr. Travis Whigham, President of the Forest Hills Association, addressed the Board and thanked them for allowing the residents in the Forest Hills/Lake Mack area to use the old fire station for a community center.  He then questioned whether the Board had any leads on how he could obtain some grant funding, or financial backing, for an invention of his that will protect the roofs of homes during hurricanes, noting that residents will not lose a single shingle, if they utilize his invention.  He stated that, should he be able to obtain funding, he hopes to start a business manufacturing his invention in the northeast Lake County area and would be able to employ a lot of county residents.

            Commr. Cadwell informed Mr. Whigham that Lake Sumter Community College has a Business Assistance Center, which offers assistance to individuals trying to open their own business, which is run by Mr. Ken Bragg, former Principal of the Bragg Safety Complex.  He stated that staff could get him in touch with Mr. Bragg, if he wished.

            Mr. Whigham thanked the Board for everything they have done for his community, thus far, however, noted that there is a lot more that needs to be done in the future.  He noted, for informational purposes, that a homeowner in the flooded area has moved out of state and is anxious to move forward with the County purchasing his property, should they still wish to do so.

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, addressed the Board stating that  his department has an agenda item coming forward in a couple of weeks, requesting authorization to have appraisals done on some of the properties that are located in the flooded area alluded to by Mr. Whigham.  He stated that staff will be looking for funding from the County, or from the St. Johns River Water Management District, to pay for said appraisals.

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

            PUBLIC WORKS

            DRAFT PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, addressed the Board stating that staff had some questions for Mr. Bob Stevens, former Parks and Recreation Director, about this request, therefore, were requesting approval to postpone it until March 15, 2005.

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to postpone Tab 22, a request from Public Works for review and approval of the draft Parks and Recreation Master Plan, until the Board Meeting scheduled for March 15, 2005.

            RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

            At 9:50 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess for 10 minutes.

            ADDENDUM NO. 1

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS (CONT’D.)

            PUBLIC WORKS

            CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FOR NORTHEAST COMMUNITY PARK

            Mr. Randy Raymond, representing Herbert-Halback, Inc. (HHI), the firm hired by the County to design the Northeast Community Park, addressed the Board and gave a brief overview of the conceptual design for the park.  He stated that, initially, there were three concepts for the park, but the concept before the Board this date was the one preferred by county staff, as well as by the community, during a community workshop that was held regarding the park.  He displayed a drawing of the conceptual plan, noting that the entry to the park, off of Roger Giles Road, will be realigned slightly, for safety purposes, and there will be a park entry sign that will be lighted and landscaped.  He stated that the ball fields will be full length, which is 300 feet, as suggested by the residents, and the lighting for the fields will be centralized.  He stated that there will be two entries into the park for vehicular traffic - one accessing two 250 space parking lots and the other one accessing one 250 space parking lot.  He stated that the concession/restroom area has been centrally located between the baseball and soccer fields; two playgrounds have been located adjacent to said fields; and some courts for sports such as basketball, racket ball, tennis, etc. have been located adjacent to the parking lot on the northern side of the park.  He stated that a pedestrian circulation system has been included throughout the park, which could be used as an exercise path, although it will also be used by maintenance vehicles, to access the various fields.  He stated that one of the components of the plan is for a maintenance compound that will not only service this park, but other parks in the area, as well, which is located at the secondary entry, in the back of the park.  He stated that they have also included a picnic area in the park.

            Mr. Raymond stated that the site in question is an orange grove and that the County plans to maintain as many of the trees as possible along the perimeter of the park, for buffering, for the residents that currently live in the area, as well as future residents.  He stated that the overall topography of the site slips to the south, so the retention areas are located on the south end of the park.  He pointed out the fact that the conceptual drawing shows the inclusion of a recreation center, to be located adjacent to the parking lots in the middle of the complex, however, noted that it will involve a future phase of the development.  He stated that something that could be a highlight of the park is an agricultural exhibit area, which could showcase the County’s agriculture.  He then answered questions from the Board regarding the plan.

            Commr. Stivender stated that, since this plan will probably be a prototype for future regional parks to be constructed in the County, she wanted to make sure that there were sufficient softball fields, noting that there is a major need for them, for the County’s softball teams.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that the County plans for the park to be open from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and that the residents that live in close proximity to the park understand that.  He stated that, although there were some initial concerns about the park, everyone is excited about it.  He stated that something that was brought up during the meeting that was held with the community is the need for a swimming pool in Umatilla, at which time he noted that, although one has not been planned for the park at the present time, there is an area where one could be constructed, should that interest continue to grow.

            Commr. Hill addressed the issue of lighting, at which time she was informed that the intent is to try to light as much of the park as possible.  She then addressed the issue of seating and was informed that staff has talked about having portable bleachers; however, there are a couple of options being considered.

            Commr. Hanson questioned whether there would be a separate landscape design for the park, utilizing plants that are native to the area and that are drought resistant, and was informed that there would be such a design throughout the park.

            Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that, when the property for the park was rezoned, it was rezoned to include a caretaker’s residence on the north end of the park, however, noted that it is not being shown in the plan, because it is scheduled to come back to the Board at a later date for discussion.  He stated that the realignment of Saltsdale Road and Roger Giles Road is really going to help that intersection and that, since the County has envisioned paving up to the entrance of the park and Rogers Giles Road is on the double surface treatment list with the County, which will take it back to Baker Road and Dexter Hill Road, that whole community, which now has clay roads, will be helped.

            It was noted that the pedestrian paths within the park will be asphalt, which will give them a multi-functional use and will make them handicapped accessible, as well.

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, addressed the Board stating that the County held off on a couple of its plans for sidewalks in the area, to see where the park was going to fit in, so that they could plan for them beyond this site.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for approval of the conceptual design for the Northeast Community Park; and approval to move to the construction document phase of the project development.

            REPORTS - COUNTY MANAGER

            MASTER SPACE STUDY

            Ms. Chloe Jaco, Carter Goble Lee (CGL), one of the consultants for the County’s Master Space and Facilities Plan, addressed the Board stating that she would be recapping the results of the planning worksession that was held on February 8, 2005, with the Board and other elected officials, as well as department heads and county staff, along with Mr. Steve Carter and herself, from CGL, regarding the County’s Master Space Study.  She stated that, during that worksession, they reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of the four development options that had been created, from discussions that were held between the County and CGL.  She stated that, from that emerged what they are calling a consensus option, which she reviewed with the Board, as follows:

CONSENSUS OPTION – KEEP COUNTY ADMINISTRATION DOWNTOWN, DEMOLISH OLD JAIL, AND EXPAND JUDICIAL

Elements

 

§         Use County Administration Building for General Government Functions, to Include County Administration and Supervisor of Elections

§         Demolish Sheriff Headquarters/Old Jail

§         Use Historic Courthouse for Museum, Growth Management, and Information Technology

§         Use Public Works Building for Growth Management

§         Expand Judicial Complex

§         Build New Tavares Complex for Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, Community Services, Health, Public Works, Public Safety, and Sheriff

§         Build/Lease New Future Complex in South Lake and North Lake

            Advantages/Disadvantages

§         Consolidation of Judicial Functions

§         Growth Management and Information Technology at Multiple Locations

§         Departments Assigned to County Administration Building Exceed Space Projections Before 2015

§         Demolition of Old Jail Reduces Tavares’ Parking Deficit and Provides Space for New Parking

§         Demolition of Old Jail Reduces Availability of Existing Downtown Space

§         More Than Double Expansion of Judicial Complex Required

§         Expansion of Tavares Central Energy Plan

§         Downtown Parking Need of 684 Spaces by 2020

Total Project Cost 2015                                                                $82,000,000

            Ms. Jaco stated that, with regard to parking needs for the downtown area, some new information has come to light, so her firm hopes to get a better handle on that issue.  She stated that she would like to get comments and direction on how the County wants to proceed, in preparing the Master Space and Facilities Plan itself.

            Commr. Stivender informed the Board that she would like to clarify a statement that appeared in an article in The Daily Commercial this date that was written by one of the newspaper’s staff writers, Mr. Jacob Ogles.  She stated that she does not agree that it is a good idea to move the Property Appraiser, the Tax Collector, and some of the other departments to the proposed complex in south Tavares, but that she did not state that she felt the Tax Collector’s Office should be moved to the Sheriff’s Administration Building (formerly Old Jail), as Mr. Ogles indicated in his article that she had stated, during the Board Retreat that was held on February 28, 2005, and that she apologized to Mr. McKee for it.  She stated that, although the Historical Courthouse is a prestigious, beautiful building, Mr. McKee has run out of space and there are options that need to be looked at.  She stated that, had she been present at the February 8, 2005 meeting, when CGL gave their presentation regarding the Master Space Study, she would have addressed the matter then.

            Commr. Stivender stated that, with regard to the issue of parking, the County looked at constructing a parking garage across the street from the Administration Building when she was the Capital Improvements Liaison Commissioner last year, but it did not get into the discussions with CGL, when they were doing their space study.  She stated that she asked staff to talk with the private property owners across the street from the Administration Building about a private/public partnership, with regard to the parking garage, and about the possibility of locating their businesses underneath the parking garage and having some retail space available for lease.  She stated that she is on the Downtown Redevelopment Committee for the City of Tavares and feels that the County could possibly lease some of the space for the Property Appraiser, the Tax Collector, or some of the other constitutional officers, as additional space, rather than constructing new buildings.  She stated that it would take care of some of the additional parking that the City needs for the buildings that were constructed in the downtown area in the past.  She stated that the City’s parking is in a deficit, whether anything else is built in the downtown area or not.  She stated that the parking garage was brought up for discussion at the Board Retreat on February 28, 2005, at which time some drawings of the garage that were done six to eight months ago were shown to the Board, however, noted that some of the Commissioners have not yet seen the drawings.  She stated that she wanted the issue to be looked at, as well as an option that Commr. Cadwell suggested at the Board Meeting that was held on February 8, 2005, with regard to the County looking at lease space.

            Ms. Jaco stated that the issue of parking is a huge one and one that needs to be addressed, however, noted that, before they can approach it, the County needs to come to a consensus about which downtown buildings will be staying, which ones will be going, and which ones will be expanded.  She stated that the discussion about lease versus own was more for those departments and space that are not in the downtown area.  She stated that the key elements being discussed this date are for those participants who are currently in the downtown area, not so much for the leased space in The Golden Triangle area, the Eustis area, or the Mt. Dora area, noting that that has been tabled, in a sense, as something that the Board will have to address in Phase II.  She stated that the space crisis involves the Judicial Center’s needs and the Sheriff’s needs, noting that, when one looks at the numbers, they have the two highest deficit space needs.

            Discussion occurred regarding the relocation of the various departments, at which time Commr. Stivender stated that the County has discussed relocating Public Works for the past 15 years.

            Ms. Jaco stated that it has been a given from the onset that Public Works is going to be relocated and that that building is going to be available to be utilized by another department.  She stated that the focus has always come down to a few key elements, but the Sheriff’s Office, Public Safety, and Public Works have been givens.  She stated that the key question is the status of the Sheriff’s Administration Building and whether or not it is an asset that the County wants to keep, noting that the amount of space involved will drive who can stay in the downtown area and who cannot.

            Commr. Pool interjected that that is where he is having a struggle – whether or not to demolish the Sheriff’s Administration Building, as it now exists, noting that he feels the building is structurally sound, but questions whether it is functional and what the benefits and liabilities would be to maintaining or refurbishing it.  He stated that the issue is the cost effectiveness of having the building renovated, or having a new roof put on it, at which time he noted that he felt staff should let the Board know what the cost would be for a total refurbishing of the building, versus the cost of a new roof.

            Ms. Jaco stated that some other givens in the scenario is Community Services and Health and Human Services, noting that moving those two departments to the proposed complex has been discussed, as well.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that, if space is available, he would rather have Community Services in town, however, noted that he feels the Property Appraiser and the Tax Collector would be better served at the proposed complex.

            Commr. Hanson stated that, with regard to the Sheriff’s Administration Building, the County recently put a number of dollars into restoring and renovating it for the Sheriff; therefore, if the County can utilize it and reduce the parking needs, by not having a high customer use in it, she would rather keep it than demolish it.

            Mr. Stivender stated that the County has gotten 10 years of life out of the building, since it has been refurbished, and he assumes the process to get everything done that the Board is talking about will take almost as long.  He stated that the decision about whether or not that building goes could be made at a later date, noting that the County is going to have to have people occupying it continually, as they move offices around, so it might be used as an “option” building.  He stated that sooner or later the building will become obsolete, but the County will have gotten some useful life out of it.

            Commr. Cadwell pointed out the fact that, with Emergency Services being moved to the proposed complex, it will free up a lot of parking.

            Mr. Bob McKee, Tax Collector, addressed the Board stating that he mentioned at the Board Meeting that was held on February 8, 2005 the fact that, when the former Tax Collector, Mr. T. Keith Hall, originally moved into the Historical Courthouse, he was asked by the then sitting Board not to do motor vehicle transactions in the new office, because the traffic that it would generate would be so exorbitant that it could not possibly be accommodated in Tavares, so his office has not handled those transactions for the past eight years.  He stated that, if the Board chooses to move his office to the south end of Tavares, they will be able to provide those services and mitigate the impact on the south Lake County and golden triangle offices.  He stated that he spoke to Mr. Ed Havill, the Property Appraiser, at length about the matter and was asked to speak on his behalf, noting that he concurs with that position.  He stated that they feel the County is on track, so whatever the Board decides to do, as long as they have adequate space and parking for their customers, they will be as flexible as the County needs them to be.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that he hopes whatever departments end up in the Historical Courthouse will be ones that will generate foot traffic, because sometimes that is the only exposure that the Historical Museum gets.

            Ms. Jaco questioned what the Board planned to do about the Health Department and the space that the County leases for it and was informed by Mr. Neron, County Manager, that a couple of weeks ago he put together a group, consisting of the County Attorney and several members of staff, to look at the issue of leasing versus building and they used the Health Department as the test case for that.  He noted that the group is headed by Mr. Greg Mihalic, Economic Development and Tourism Director.  He stated that he would be discussing the issue with them tomorrow and would question when they expect to have some information to bring back to Board.

            It was noted that the group has been gathering information about the matter, but they have not yet met.

            Commr. Hill questioned what the plan is for the Judicial Center, with regard to expanding it – whether the consultants were looking at increasing the number of floors on the building, or whether they were looking at constructing another building.

            Ms. Jaco stated that they had discussed the possibility of constructing another building, approximately the same size, next to the original building and connecting the two together.  She stated that some of the givens will be the demolition of the mail receiving building and the old Tavares Health Clinic, located across the street from the mail receiving building.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that there seems to be a consensus that the Sheriff’s Administration Building will need to be utilized for several more years, while all the changes are taking place, at which time he noted that he would like to know what that building’s current needs are and what it will cost to take care of those needs.

            Mr. Neron stated that, with regard to the cost of the new construction, staff can bring back to the Board a more refined cost and, after meeting with the County’s financial advisors, how the County will pay for it.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board will be going through two Chairmen, while they make some serious decisions about what they are going to do, with regard to the Master Space and Facilities Plan.  He stated that, when the Judicial Center was built, the Board at that time had very little to say about it and that, while he certainly would want this Board to respond to the Clerk’s needs and the Judges’ needs, he feels they need to be very active in how the new complex is built.

            Mr. Stivender informed the Board that, with regard to the Sheriff’s Administration Building, there will be an item on the agenda for the Board Meeting scheduled for March 15, 2005, requesting approval to have the roof reshingled, at a cost of $200,000, due to patches that were left from the tower being replaced, plus the age of the roof and the fact that part of it was blown off during the hurricanes.

            Commr. Pool interjected that it will be a good investment for the County, if they can get another five years out of the building.

            It was noted that the roof was replaced in 1995, during the restoration of the building.

            Ms. Dottie Keedy, City Administrator for the City of Tavares, addressed the Board stating that, with regard to expanding the Judicial Center, she did not feel the Board could make that decision separate from the parking, noting that the current parking spaces serve the building that is there, which she assumes will be expanded; however, it is going to get rid of parking that is there, as well as produce the need for additional parking.  She stated that, in looking at the chart, if the first phase that they are talking about doing is 210,000 square feet, the County is going to need at least 300 additional parking spaces, plus the ones that they will lose when they build out over the parking lot.  She stated that it involves a significant amount of spaces and the Board is going to have to figure out where they are going to put them.  She stated that the stance the City has taken, as long as she has been the City Administrator, is that, when the County builds something new, the City does not look at it as a deficit, because they understand the problem that the County is having.  She stated that they just look at the square footage that the County is adding, which is what they did when the County built the Public Works building.  She stated that the issue has nothing to do with the deficit, or moving people out of the City, it is that the County will not be able to get site plan approval, unless they address the parking specifically for that building.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board needs to state that, as they build, they will commit to the fact that parking is part of that budget and that it will be done at the same time that the building is constructed, so they will not have to go before the City requesting variances.

            Ms. Jaco was asked to recap the revised consensus regarding Phase I of the Master Space and Facilities Plan, at which time she stated that Phase I will involve expanding the Judicial Center to at least meet a 10 year need; beginning a complex in south Tavares for Public Safety, the Sheriff, the Tax Collector, the Property Appraiser, and Public Works; and to determine what the parking need is in the downtown area and, hopefully, come up with some possible solutions to it, which will have to be part of Phase I.  She stated that Phase II will involve how the County will want to address the Sheriff’s Administration Building and what impact it will have, as to which functions will either move into that building, or be moved out to the new complex.  She stated that, once the Board has taken care of those issues, they can start thinking about the south and north areas of the County and how they want to address them, which will involve Phases III and IV.  She noted that she will give the County a very rough schematic vision for the downtown area and for the proposed complex, as part of the Master Space and Facilities Plan.

Commr. Stivender questioned when the funding part of the plan would come into play and was informed by Mr. Neron, County Manager, that, now that staff has some direction, they can work with CGL and come back with the estimated cost, as well as the timing, and he will then start working with Mr. Mitch Owens, the County’s financial advisor, and would probably have to have a workshop with the Board, once they get the timing down, as to potential ways to fund the project.  He stated that the County is going to need some type of a general fund revenue bond issued, to cover the day to day ongoing expenses that will be incurred for this type of a project.  He stated that he would rather not commit to a time frame at this time, however, noted that staff will consider this project as a top priority and stay on it.

Commr. Cadwell clarified the fact that, once it is known who is going to be relocated and what space is going to be left, the Board will still have input about who is going where.

Mr. Minkoff informed the Board that there is a possibility that Lake County will get two new judges – one County and one Circuit, who will need office space, at which time Mr. Neron stated that the County will have to work with the Judiciary and the Clerk on some type of an  interim plan.

It was noted that the County will have to look at additional staffing that goes along with the judges, as well, in that one judge generates ten additional employees.

            On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved that Phase I of the Master Space Study will include the Judicial Center at the 10 year square footage level; that the Public Works Department, the Property Appraiser’s Office, the Tax Collector’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, and the Public Safety Department will be moved to the proposed south Tavares complex; and that the Board will address the issue of parking and the cost of parking for the downtown complex, when staff brings back to the Board the estimated cost and phasing of the Master Space Study.

            Mr. McKee, Tax Collector, thanked the Board for allowing the Constitutional Officers to participate in the process.

            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS (CONT’D.)

            PUBLIC WORKS

FERNDALE PRESERVE  FLORIDA COMMUNITIES TRUST GRANT PROJECT

            Ms. Cindy Hall, Assistant County Manager, addressed the Board stating that staff was requesting authorization to request an increase in the award amount, from the Florida Communities Trust (FCT), for the Ferndale Preserve on Lake Apopka Project.  She stated that the County was awarded the grant, in the amount of $1,950,000, and, at that time, the County match would have been $650,000.  She stated that the County went forward with the grant request of $2.6 million; however, since then, the price has increased.  She stated that the increase in the purchase price will necessitate an increase in the award from the Florida Community Trust of $1,166,250 and an increase in the County match of $388,750.  She stated that the Lake County Water Authority still has pledged $187,500, in assisting the County with its match, and the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) has pledged $250,000 towards the match.  She stated that she spoke with the SJRWMD this morning and they indicated that they may consider increasing that amount, so the County may get a little extra support from them.  She stated that staff was requesting authorization to go forward to the Florida Communities Trust, to request the balance of the grant money, however, noted that, in doing so, it obligates the County to a higher match amount of money.

            Commr. Pool stated that he declared a conflict of interest and abstained from the discussion and vote on this issue the first time it came before the Board and, while the conflict has potentially been resolved, to be consistent, he was going to do so again, because of an in-law issue with ownership of the property.

            Commr. Hill pointed out the fact that, when the County first submitted this request, the amount of money involved was $2.6 million, but it has increased to $4 million.  She stated that she was sure staff had appraisals done and had the property evaluated, however, questioned how much of the acreage was actually uplands.

            It was noted that approximately 137 of the 192 acres is uplands.

            Ms. Hall stated that the County has sufficient dollars available for its match, so, if the Board so chooses, at a later date, they could consider reimbursement from the bond proceeds for environmental lands.

            Commr. Hill clarified the fact that the property is approximately $30,000 per acre.  She stated that she knows the general public wants the County to buy property, but she is uncomfortable with the increase in the cost, although it seems that that is what property goes for in that area of the County.  She stated that the County has discussed utilizing said property for a regional park, but she does not feel that the road structure in that area is conducive for a regional park, at this time, and she does not feel there is enough acreage for a regional park.

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried, by a 4-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Public Works for authorization to request an increase in the award amount, from the Florida Communities Trust (FCT), for the Ferndale Preserve on Lake Apopka Project.

            Commr. Pool had declared a conflict of interest, therefore, abstained from the discussion and vote.

            REPORTS – COUNTY ATTORNEY

            COUNTY LEASE WITH AUSTIN GILES POST 21 IN UMATILLA

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, informed the Board that Austin Giles Post 21, in Umatilla, also known as the American Legion Hall, has been used by the American Legion for many years and, for a long time, the County did not have a separate insurance requirement in their lease; however, in 1996, the County started requiring the American Legion to have insurance, which has been difficult for them, since that time.  He stated that a representative of the American Legion has been in contact with his office, as well as the Board of County Commissioners, requesting the County to waive the insurance requirement, just as they did recently for the Lake Mack Fire Station.  He stated that he has discussed the matter with Risk Management and they do not have a problem with it, due to the fact that said post does not allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages.  He noted that the County would have to make a slight change to the lease, because it currently allows them to let other people use the facility, and, if it is not going to be covered by insurance, the County would only want the American Legion to use it, not other groups.  He stated that staff was recommending approval of the request.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to waive the insurance requirement for Austin Giles Post 21, in Umatilla, also known as the American Legion Hall, as requested.

            Mr. Minkoff informed the Board that Risk Management is going to be looking at this issue more globally, to see if such facilities can be covered under the County’s policy.

            REPORTS – COUNTY MANAGER

            FY 2005 JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG)

            Mr. Fletcher Smith, Community Services Director, addressed the Board stating that his office has just received notice that Lake County is eligible for the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, formerly known as the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant, and that the County could receive up to $88,210 for FY 2005.  He stated that staff was requesting that Ms. Robbie Hollenbeck, Special Projects Coordinator, Community Services, be appointed as the contact person, to do the day to day grant related activities, so that the County can submit the grant by March 31, 2005.  He stated that the Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to identify what types of equipment they want to purchase with said dollars.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from Community Services for approval to submit an electronic application for the Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for FY 2005, in the amount of $88,210; and to designate Ms. Robbie Hollenbeck, Special Projects Coordinator, Community Services, as the program’s contact person, who will handle the day to day matters related to the program.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER CADWELL – DISTRICT 5

            COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE PROCESS

            Commr. Cadwell brought to the attention of the Board the fact that the Chief of Comprehensive Planning, Department of Community Affairs (DCA), wrote a letter to Ms. Amye King, Chief Planner, Long Range Planning, Growth Management Department, expressing the DCA’s support and appreciation for the update process that the County is currently going through, with regard to its Comprehensive Plan.  He stated that he thought it was very nice for DCA to take the time to write Lake County expressing their support and appreciation of the County’s Comprehensive Plan update process and expressing to staff that they feel they are doing a good job.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER POOL – DISTRICT 2

            SEVENTH ANNUAL PIG ON THE POND FESTIVAL

            Commr. Pool reminded the Board about the 7th Annual Pig on the Pond Festival, scheduled to be held March 11-12, 2005, at the Waterfront Park, in Clermont.  He stated that there are lots of great events, lots of barbeque, and it is lots of fun.  He stated that the whole idea behind the event is to generate dollars back into the community, noting that it is a fundraiser for the South Lake County Community Foundation and invited everyone to attend.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER POOL – DISTRICT 2

RESOLUTION FACILITATING SOUTH LAKE TRAIL/LAKE MINNEOLA TRAIL PHASE II CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

Commr. Pool expressed appreciation to the Board for adopting Resolution No. 2005-25, earlier in the meeting, which facilitates the South Lake Trail/Lake Minneola Trail Phase II Construction Project, and the expenditure of funds for same.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HANSON – DISTRICT 4

            NEIGHBORHOOD LAKES

            Commr. Hanson stated that she was very disappointed about an article that was written in The Lake Sentinel, by Columnist Lauren Ritchie, the day after the Board voted on the issue of Neighborhood Lakes, a development being proposed for the Wekiva Basin area.  She stated that the article was unfortunate and that she felt it was written before the vote was actually taken by the Board, because it contained a comment that she felt was slipped in, in that it was almost hidden, that the Board did the right thing in voting against the rezoning for Neighborhood Lakes.  She stated that she realizes Ms. Ritchie, as a columnist, can write her opinion any time she wants, but she feels it is unfortunate that she wrote the article.  She stated that she feels that vote was a very significant one for the Board for Neighborhood Lakes and that she feels they did the right thing, however, noted that there was very little recognition of it.  She stated that she took the lead on both votes, one being not to postpone the request and the other being not to rezone the property.  She stated that the Board has worked too hard to protect the Wekiva Basin, which she has been at the forefront of, to have such negative articles written about them.  She stated that people believe what they read and such articles do a lot of harm, for the good things that the Board is trying to do.  She stated that it is a little discouraging, but the Board can move forward knowing that they did the right thing.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HANSON – DISTRICT 4

APPOINTMENT TO THE WEKIVA RIVER SYSTEM ADVISORY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Commr. Hanson informed the Board that she was asked by the Secretary of the Interior to serve on the Wekiva River System Advisory Management Committee, representing the interests of the Lake County Planning Department, which is a tremendous honor.  The purpose of the Committee is to assist in the development of the comprehensive management plan for the Wekiva River System and provide advice to the Secretary of the Interior, in carrying out the management responsibilities of the Secretary, under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.  She stated that she will do her best to represent Lake County and protect the environment and what they have protected very well in the Wekiva Basin.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER – DISTRICT 3

RESOLUTION DESIGNATING PORTION OF SR 50 IN LAKE COUNTY AS “ERIC RAMIREZ HIGHWAY”

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2005-27, supporting Florida Senate Bill 820, designating a portion of SR 50, in Lake County, between the community of Stuckey and the Mascotte city limits, as the “Eric Ramirez Highway”.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER – DISTRICT 3

REQUEST FOR LIGHTING ON SOME OF COUNTY’S HIGHWAYS

Commr. Stivender stated that an elderly resident, who lives at the corner of SR 19 and Dewey Robbins Road, which is in a rural area of the County, has requested that a light be installed on the power pole that is located at that corner, because of safety issues at night involving cars that are speeding down SR 19, while he is trying to turn off of the highway onto his property.  She stated that she asked staff to look into the matter, at which time Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, informed her that the issue had been addressed with prior Commissioners; however, they felt that it would be too expensive for the County to have said lights installed.  She stated that it will only cost the County $7 per month for the light; therefore, she wanted staff to look into the matter again, but was informed by the County Manager and the County Attorney that she would have to bring the request before the Board for approval.  She stated that she knows this same problem is occurring in other areas of the County, where elderly residents are having trouble finding their intersections at night, without being tail-ended.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, suggested that he and Mr. Stivender work with the County Attorney and prepare an issues paper and possibly suggest some criteria to be used, as well as look at the costs that would be involved.  He suggested that it be taken care of at the financial retreat, when the Board discusses other budget related issues.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that, countywide, the cost would be great and pointed out the fact that one neighbor may want the light, while another may not, noting that it is not as simple as it sounds.

            Commr. Hanson interjected that there may be some other alternative than having a street light installed.

            Mr. Stivender stated that the County is trying to bring attention to its intersections, especially on some of the major corridors, however, noted that the dilemma with this request is that it is a policy decision by the Board, in budgeting money, not just for maintaining the lights being requested, but the demand and criteria that goes along with it.  He stated that there are a lot of subdivisions that want the County to participate in their entire subdivision, so the policy needs to be very clear on what the Board wants and does not want.  He noted that the County has just started something that some of the other counties already have, which are signs erected on the right sides of the roadways stating the names of the intersections, which are illuminated at night, warning motorists that they are approaching the intersections.

Commr. Hanson stated that it is also one of those issues that would probably help the elder friendly communities, such as the Communities for a Lifetime, because it makes it easier for everyone.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HILL – CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 1

            TEACHER OF THE YEAR CEREMONY

Commr. Hill thanked those Commissioners who attended the Teacher of the Year ceremony recently, noting that it was a very nice ceremony and very well attended.  She stated that she appreciated Mr. Tom Terry, Chief Meteorologist with Channel 9, attending the ceremony, as well, noting that he was very delightful.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HANSON – DISTRICT 4

BOARD RETREATS

Commr. Hanson stated that she felt the Board Retreat that was held on Monday, February 28, 2005, was very good, but she would again like to remind the County Manager to put together a Board Retreat that is more of a brainstorming retreat.

The County Manager stated that he had already made some telephone calls regarding the matter.

            REPORTS – COMMISSIONER CADWELL – DISTRICT 5

            TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D. C.

Commr. Cadwell reminded the Board that he would be leaving town for Washington, D.C., on behalf of the Board, and would be there until Wednesday, March 9, 2005.

            REPORTS – COUNTY MANAGER (CONT’D.)

            CANCELLATION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONER’S MEETING

            The County Manager reminded the Board that the meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 8, 2005, had been cancelled.

            ADJOURNMENT

            There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

 

 

 

__________________________

JENNIFER HILL, CHAIRMAN

 

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

__________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK