A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
July 6, 2010
The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Welton Cadwell, Chairman; Elaine Renick, Vice Chairman; Jennifer Hill; Jimmy Conner; and Linda Stewart. Others present were: Sanford A. “Sandy” Minkoff, Interim County Manager; Melanie Marsh, Acting County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, County Manager’s Office; Barbara F. Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Brenda Press, Deputy Clerk.
INVOCATION and pledge
Reverend Dr. Isaac Deas from Cornerstone Hospice gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
MINUTE APPROVAL
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Hill, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of May 18, 2010 (Regular Meeting) as presented; May 25, 2010 (Special Meeting) as presented; and June 1, 2010 (Regular Meeting) as presented.
CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Clerk of Courts’ Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 11, as follows:
List of Warrants
Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 (1) 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.
Tourist Development Resort Tax Chart
Request to acknowledge receipt of the Lake County Tourist Development Resort Tax Chart and notification of the meeting to be held Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at 4:00 p.m., in Board Chambers, Administrative Building, Tavares.
Order Suspending Tariffs
Request to acknowledge receipt of the Notice Before the Florida Public Service Commission – Regarding Order Suspending Tariffs of Gulf Power Company, Tampa Electric Company, Progress Energy Florida, Inc., and Florida Power and Light Company.
Greater Lakes Sawgrass Bay Community Development District’s Proposed Budget
Request to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2010-2011 for the Greater Lakes Sawgrass Bay Community Development District pursuant to Chapter 190 Florida Statutes, along with a cover letter stating that a public hearing to consider the adoption of this budget has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at the Marion Baysinger Memorial Library, 756 West Broad Street, Groveland.
Central Lake Community Development District’s Proposed Budget
Request to acknowledge receipt of Central Lake Community Development District’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2011. The District will schedule a public hearing not less than 60 days from the date of this letter for adoption of the budget.
Village Center Community Development District’s Proposed Budget
Request to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the proposed budget for the Village Center Community Development District for the Fiscal Year 2010/2011 in accordance with Chapter 190.008(2)(b)(c), Florida Statutes.
Covanta Lake’s Solid Waste Operations Annual Report FY 2009
Request to acknowledge receipt of Covanta Lake’s Solid Waste Operations Annual Report FY 2009 (October 1, 2008 – September 30, 2009).
Covanta Lake’s Solid Waste Operations Monitoring 1st Quarter Report FY 2010
Request to acknowledge receipt of Covanta Lake’s Solid Waste Operations Monitoring1st Quarter Report FY 2010 (October 1, 2009 – December 31, 2009).
Country Greens Community Development District’s Proposed Budget
Request to acknowledge receipt of Country Greens Community Development District’s Proposed Operating Budget for FY 2011. The District’s public hearing is scheduled for August 9, 2010 at 5 p.m., at the Hampton Inn in Mount Dora, Florida.
Black Bear Reserve Water Company, Inc.
Request to acknowledge receipt of Notice before the Florida Public Service Commission. Publication/Legal Notice for Application for Original Certificate for an Existing System with rates and charges pursuant to Section 367.045, Florida Statutes of Black Bear Reserve Water Company, Inc. to operate a water utility to provide service to the described territory in Lake County.
Before the Florida Public Service Commission
Request to acknowledge receipt of faxed Notice before the Florida Public Service Commission – Re: Order Approving Stipulation and Settlement, Order No. PSC-10-0398-S-EI, issued June 18, 2010, for the following:
Docket No. 090079-EI – Petition for increase in rates by Progress Energy Florida, Inc.
Docket No. 090144-EI – Petition for limited proceeding to include Bartow repowering project in base rates, by Progress Energy Florida, Inc.
Docket No. 090145-EI – Petition for expedited approval of the deferral of pension expenses, authorization to charge storm hardening expenses to the storm damage reserve, and variance from or waiver of Rule 25-6.0143(1)(c)(d), and (f), F.A.C, by Progress Energy Florida, Inc.
Docket No. 100136-EI – Petition for approval of an accounting order to record a depreciation expense credit, by Progress Energy Florida, Inc.
COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA
On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 3 through 36, pulling Tab 35, as follows:
Conservation and Compliance
Request for retroactive approval of distribution of Byrne Grant Funds among local jurisdictions applying for funding, and (2) retroactive approval of Chairman signature on original letters of support, and (3) retroactive approval for submission of application for the Sheriff for purchase of robot remote control radio system and remote firing system for bomb disposal team, and (4) signature on grant documents including application, certificate of acceptance, EEO certifications, and subsequent grant documents. No Fiscal Impact; Grant funding will be appropriated as part of the FY 2010-11 Budget.
County Manager
Request for approval to fill vacant Program Specialist and Senior Program Specialist positions in Economic Development & Community Services/Housing Services. The total fiscal impact of filling the positions is $98,860.
Request for approval to fill Employee Services Manager position in the Department of Employee Services. The fiscal impact of filling the position is $69,918.
Request for approval to hire two part-time laborers for the Material Recycling Facility. Fiscal Impact is $29,726.00
Economic Development and Community Services
Request for approval and signature on the Amendment to High Value Job Creation Program Agreement between Lake County, Florida and Petrotech Southeast, Inc. for a twelve month extension. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval for the Lake County Community Health Worker Program to receive grants and/or incentives up to $10,000.00 to support programming and to allow the County Manager to sign documents associated with these requirements.
Request for approval and authorization for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to sign the agreement between Lake County and Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc. d/b/a Elder Options.
Environmental Utilities
Request for approval of the FY 2010/11 Detailed Work Plan Budget – Arthropod Control. Fiscal impact is $35,000.
Facilities Development and Management
Request for approval to award in the amount of $27,946.45 to Teracai for the purchase of Server Room Computer Equipment per Quote 40011909 Dated 5/21/10. Fiscal impact is $27,946.45.
Fiscal and Administrative Services
Request for approval of extensions of contracts 05-074 for Disaster Debris Removal Management and Monitoring and 05-007A & B for Debris Removal Services through the end of hurricane season, November 30, 2010. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to apply for the FY 2010 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) through the Office of Justice Program’s (OJP) Grants Management System (GMS). The FY 2010 allocation for Lake County is $83,545.
Request for approval to declare the items on the submitted list(s) surplus to County needs, authorize the removal of all of the items on the submitted lists from the County’s official fixed asset inventory system records, and authorize the Procurement Services Director or designee to sign vehicle titles. No fiscal impact.
Request for approval of the unanticipated revenue Resolution No. 2010-71 budgeting the Military and Overseas Empowerment (MOVE) Act grant in the amount of $6,435. The grant will fund the MOVE Act information service license fee and the first 24 months of service. Fiscal impact is $6,435.
Growth Management
Request for approval to accept sponsorships for the Green Team’s 2nd Green Symposium to be held on July 29 & 30, 2010 at the Mission Inn, Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida.
Request for approval of Proclamation No. 2010-72 to recognize July 25-31, 2010 as Lake County’s Green Business Week.
Request for approval of Responding Resolution No. 2010-73 consenting to the City of Clermont’s request to participate in the negotiations concerning an Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement (ISBA) proposed by the City of Groveland. There is no fiscal impact.
Public Resources
Request for approval to purchase 80 replacement desktop computers and 3 new laptop computers from Purchasing Officials of Lake (POOL) contract awarded to United Data Technologies, Inc., through the Lake County School Board RFQ #3185BM. Fiscal impact of $42,322, using budgeted State Aid to Libraries operating grant funds.
Request for approval by the Board of County Commissioners to authorize grant application for earnest money to contract for right of first recusal to purchase the property known as Bugg Springs. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval for Chairman and Commissioners to declare and sign Proclamation 2010-74 designating July as Parks and Recreation Month. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to seek individual grants and monetary contributions up to and including $10,000 to support Department of Public Resources division and programs and approval for the County Manager to sign associated documents. Fiscal impact dependent upon receipt of grants and donations.
Request for approval and execution of the submitted contract with Shoemaker Construction for construction of an ADA Ramp at PEAR Park. The fiscal impact is $53,175.82.
Request for approval and signature of “Agreement between Lake County, Florida and Lake County Historical Society, Inc.” No fiscal impact.
Request for approval of the Unanticipated Revenue Resolution No. 2010-75 to receive $25,000 into the MSTU-Parks fund for the restoration of native habitat at Ferndale Preserve.
Public Safety
Request for approval of budget change request transferring funds in the Lake County Fire Impact Fee Fund from Reserve for Operations to Land, to cover the cost of purchasing property located in front of the Ferndale Fire Station. Fiscal impact - $81,768.
Request for approval and authorization for Chairman to execute Amendment to Frequency Reconfiguration Agreement and authorize the County Manager to sign future amendments that do not involve financial impact. No fiscal impact.
Request for approval to apply for a Defense Infrastructure Grant to construct a Communication Tower in Lake County assigning signature authority to Growth Management as the applicant. There is no fiscal impact.
Public Works
Request for authorization to award CR-473 and #5335 Treadway School Road Intersection Improvements Project No. 2010-19, Bid No. 10-0042, to Ciraco Underground, Inc. in the amount of $254,800.00, and encumber and expend funds in the amount of $254,800.00 from the Road Impact Fees Benefit District 3 Fund. Commission District 1. Fiscal impact is $254,800.00.
Request for authorization to release a letter of credit for maintenance in the amount of $25,324 posted for Arbor Ridge. Arbor Ridge consists of 11 lots and is located in Section 25, Township 21 South, Range 25 East. Commission District 3.
Request for approval to advertise for bids for #5876 Estes Road Drainage Project No. 2010-21, Bid No. 10-0045 at an estimated cost of $155,915.10. Commission District 4. Fiscal Impact $155,915.10 (Estimated).
Request for approval of Resolution No. 2010-76 authorizing the posting of 35 MPH speed limit signs on Steves Rd. (1248) and Excalibur Rd. (1248B) between Hooks St. and Citrus Tower Blvd., Section 28, Township 22, Range 26. Commission District 2. There will be no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to advertise for bids for Old Highway 441 Intersection with CR-46 Project No. 2010-22, Bid No. 10-0046, at an estimated cost of $450,000.00. Commission District 4. Fiscal impact $450,000.00 (Estimated).
Request for approval of LAP Agreement and Supporting Resolution No. 2010-77 between Lake County and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for the installation of a traffic signal at Citrus Tower Boulevard and Oakley Seaver Drive, and approval of Resolution No. 2010-78 amending the Lake County Federal State Grants Fund in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2009-2010, in the amount of $202,587.00. Request to advertise for bids for the installation of a traffic signal at Citrus Tower Boulevard and Oakley Seaver Drive. Commission District 2. Fiscal impact is $202,587.00.
Request for approval to award in the amount of $62,900.74 annually, for Sidewalk and Lot/Retention Area Mowing to Helping Hand Lawn Care, Inc. Fiscal impact is $62,900.74 annually.
COUNTY ATTORNEY’S CONSENT AGENDA
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stewart, and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Attorney’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 37 through 44, as follows:
Request for approval of Resolution No. 2010-79 amending the Lake County Solid Waste Alternatives Task Force duties. No fiscal impact.
Request for approval to cancel the Mortgage and release the Note executed by Katie Muriel Delgado on November 30, 2006, and recorded at O.R. Book 3335, Pages 1741 through 1748, upon receipt of the $3,000.00 payment. Fiscal impact at this time is $3,000.00.
Request for approval and signature of Amended Agreement between Lake County and Bricklemyer Smolker & Bolves, P.A. relating to Eminent Domain Legal Services. Fiscal impact is unable to be determined at this time.
Request for approval of Mediated Settlement Agreement between Lake County and Cvigne Holdings, L.P. Fiscal impact is $70,000.00.
Request for approval of Revocable Non-Exclusive License Agreement between Lake County and the Cities of Eustis, Tavares and Mount Dora regarding property located on Frankie’s Road, near the County’s Animal Control Facility (Alt Key 1095123), and approval of the Budget Transfer to appropriate funds for fencing and materials. Fiscal impact of $5,000.00.
Request for approval of Renewal of Lease Agreement between Lake County and SDG Macerich Properties for commercial lease space for the Sheriff’s Substation at the Lake Square Mall. No fiscal impact.
Request for approval of Settlement agreement between Lake County and Jeffrey C. Yeager. Fiscal impact of $342.50.
Request for approval of Resolution No. 2010-80 replacing Remarketing Agent and correcting Scrivener’s Error.
agenda update
Ms. Melanie Marsh, Acting County Attorney, stated that she would like to add an item to the Agenda regarding the Early Retiree Re-Insurance Program.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the addition of this item to the Agenda under the County Attorney’s business.
Commr. Cadwell stated that he would like to add a request from the Lake-Sumter MPO to appoint a liaison to the Orange Blossom Express Initiative under his business.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the addition of this item to the Agenda.
Mr. Sandy Minkoff, Interim County Manager, noted that there is public comment scheduled at the end of the meeting. He stated that staff has provided the Chairman with information regarding public comment as previously requested.
Commr. Cadwell stated that he would like to have a discussion with the Board regarding the public comment process under his business.
employee awards
Ms. Kasie McAdams, Employee Services Manager, presented the following employee awards, commenting briefly about each employee’s service to the County.
five years
James Bell, Equipment Operator II (not present)
Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area III (Umatilla)
Joan Greaney, Office Associate IV (not present)
Growth Management/Planning & Community Design
Arnaz McVay, Equipment Operator I
Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area I (Leesburg)
Pamela Netherton, HLC Gardens Manager
Public Resources/Agricultural Extension Services/Horticultural Learning Center
Kathy Wilson, Office Associate III
Public Works/Road Operations/Signs, Signals & Striping
Ten years
Traci Bates, Permitting Specialist
Growth Management/Building Services
Yvonne Heitzner, Laboratory Analyst
Environmental Utilities/Water Quality Services
Susan Taylor, Senior Landfill Attendant (not present)
Environmental Utilities/Solid Waste Operations
fifteen years
Jane Reich, Office Associate V
Public Resources/Administration
retirement
Mr. Jim Stivender, Director of Public Works, presented the following employee award, commenting briefly about the employee’s service to the County.
Harry Romine, Equipment Operator III (not present)
Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area III (Umatilla)
thirty-five years/retirement
Mr. Jim Stivender, Director of Public Works, presented the following employee award, commenting briefly about the employee’s service to the County.
Clarence Morgan, Equipment Operator III
Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area I (Leesburg)
rezoning agenda
Mr. Steve Greene, Chief Planner, Planning and Community Design, informed the Board that there were no changes to the Consent and Regular Agendas, and that the public hearing was advertised in accordance with the law and Land Development Regulations (LDRs).
rezoning consent agenda
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
There being no one present who wished to address the Board, the Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comment for the Board.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Conner and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Rezoning Consent Agenda, as follows:
Tab 1 – Ordinance No. 2010-30
Rezoning Case No. CUP#10/6/1-4
Harry and Karen Stauderman/Oak Haven Micro Winery
Request for a Conditional Use Permit in the Agricultural (A) Zoning District to allow a Micro Winery.
Tab 3 – Ordinance No. 2010-31
Rezoning Case No. PH#14-10-1
Gregory and Ryan Wilhelm
Request to rezone a 4.6-acre parcel from R-6 to R-1 to house farm animals.
Tab 4 – Ordinance No. 2010-32
Rezoning Case No. PH#20-10-2
Ash Shoeibi
Request to rezone a 5-acre property from the Ranchette District (RA) to Rural Residential (R-1) in order to carry out a minor lot split to create two parcels.
Tab 5 – Ordinance No. 2010-33
Rezoning Case No. PH#8-10-2
FDEP Greenways and Trails – Todd McGee/William S. Neff/Bay Lake Road Trailhead
Request to rezone 1.99+/- acres from Agriculture (A) to Community Facility District (CFD) to permit the construction of a trailhead facility for public parking, picnic area, restroom facility, and administrative office.
Tab 9 – Ordinance No. 2010-34
CUP Revocations:
CUP#731A-2 – City of Clermont
CUP#731B-2 – City of Clermont
rezoning regular agenda
rezoning case no. ph#16-10-5 city of mount dora/thrill hill mining
Mr. Greene reported that this rezoning case is a request to rezone approximately 36 acres of property from Agriculture (A) to Community Facility District (CFD) for the conversion of a clay mine to a reservoir. He noted that the property has a rural future land use and is surrounded by rural land use on all sides. He stated that the clay mine activity was authorized under CUP#113-4 which will be revoked upon the approval of this rezoning request and the submittal of the site plan. He indicated that the CFD rezoning is consistent with the County’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations (LDRs). He commented that there is a great demand for water, and opined that the City of Mount Dora found an innovative way to conserve and provide water for its residents. He explained that the Public Works Department indicated that there may be an impact to Thrill Hill due to the increased traffic which the City of Mount Dora agreed to enact a Developer Agreement where they are responsible for mitigating or improving the road. He reported that the site analysis indicated the presence of gopher tortoises which will be addressed in the site plan along with an environmental study and assessment. He stated that mine site plans include a condition for the reclamation plan. He commented that the Developer Agreement requirement has been added to the proposed ordinance.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
Mr. Fred Breuche, abutting property owner, expressed concern about the smell of the reclaimed water and the seepage of the reclaimed water into his well.
Mr. Mark Reggentin, City of Mount Dora Planning Department, stated that the City’s sewage water is reclaimed water that is highly treated at a wastewater treatment plant, and noted that the water may have a chlorine smell due to treatment. He commented that the water that is discharged from the treatment plant is crystal clear like pool water. He stated that the reservoir is going to be lined with a thick rubber liner which will hold the water in, and explained that the City’s is concerned about the groundwater leeching into the reservoir.
Mr. Breuche asked how the water will be put into the reservoir and where that water will come from.
Mr. Reggentin explained that the City is going to build pipelines from the reuse lines in the Lakes of Mount Dora which will run along Thrill Hill Road which will have a secondary set of lines to take the water from the reservoir to the City’s system. He stated that the City will be required to obtain easements outside of the substandard right-of-way to install the lines.
Mr. Breuche stated that he did not have a problem as long as the pipelines were located along Thrill Hill Road on the west of his property.
The Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comments for the Board.
Commr. Renick commended the City of Mount Dora for thinking outside the box. She stated that she understood the gentlemen’s concerns regarding the odor of the reclaimed water, and commented that a lot of people are not aware of the treatment standards for reclaimed water.
On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Rezoning Case No. PH#16-10-5.
rezoning case no. ph#15-10-3 grass roots estates, llc/david gay
Mr. Rick Hartenstein, Senior Planner, Planning and Community Design, stated that the 73-acre property is located in Commission District 3, north of Mascotte approximately five miles off of CR 33, and noted that it is currently zoned Agriculture with a rural future land use. He explained that the applicant is requesting to rezone a platted subdivision, Grass Roots Estates, from Agriculture to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to permit the addition of an aircraft taxi way to allow twelve of the fourteen lots to access the adjacent air park’s runway. He noted that the application includes a waiver request to allow accessory structures to be placed in front of the principal residence for lots 4, 5, 8, 9 and 11. He commented that staff supports this waiver request, and mentioned that the setbacks for the lots have been addressed in the proposed ordinance. He reported that the applicant has also submitted a waiver regarding the tree replacement requirements for the trees that will be removed to create the taxi way. He stated that there are an estimated 106 trees with an average diameter of 10.25 inches that will be removed for this project. He explained that the LDRs require that a minimum of 50 percent of the caliper inches of the removed trees must be replaced which can be done onsite or offsite on public lands. He commented that this waiver request is inconsistent with several policies in the Comprehensive Plan and the tree protection requirements in the LDRs, and noted that it does not promote preservation or restoration of the impacted area. He stated that staff recommends the denial of the waiver because it presents a negative impact on the citizens of Lake County. He reported that the applicant has requested to be allowed to plant the replacement trees on the adjacent air park if they are required to adhere to the tree replacement requirements, and noted that staff supports the planting on the adjacent PUD. He stated that staff has reviewed the application for the proposed rezoning and requests approval of the rezoning and denial of the waiver regarding the tree replacement. He commented that the Zoning Board recommended approval of the rezoning and recommended that the waiver for tree replacement be denied with the applicant being required to replace 25 percent of the tree caliper inches of the tree survey. He commented that there was an alternative discussed regarding the tree replacement which would exempt the pine trees on the tree survey and require the replacement of all other trees on the tree survey in accordance with the LDRs. He presented a chart with the three different options for the tree replacement. He stated that if the waiver was not permitted, then 544 caliper inches would have to be replaced which is 50 percent of the total caliper inches and equals 218 replacement trees. He noted that the Zoning Board’s recommendation was to require 25 percent of the total caliper inches totaling 272 caliper inches and 109 replacement trees. He mentioned that the alternative would subtract the 38 pine trees or 269 caliper inches from the total required to be replaced for a total of 409 caliper inches or 164 replacement trees.
Commr. Cadwell asked if the pine trees on the property were originally part of the silva culture operation.
Mr. Hartenstein responded that the pine trees were part of an agriculture operation, and stated that it was not cost effective to harvest the remaining trees on the property.
Commr. Cadwell opined that he was more inclined to allow the applicant remove the pine trees and replace the remaining trees because the pine trees did not naturally grow on the property.
Commr. Conner noted that he previously met with staff regarding this request, and asked if the property owner has the right to remove the pine trees for harvesting.
Mr. Hartenstein stated that the applicant is allowed to remove the pine trees upon submittal of the best management practices and culture plan without being required to replace the trees.
Commr. Conner asked for clarification on calculation for the alternative option.
Mr. Hartenstein explained that the third option subtracts the 38 pine trees or 269 caliper inches from the total 1,087 to be removed which equals a total of 409 caliper inches to be replaced based on the 50 percent replacement requirement in the LDRs.
Commr. Conner asked if the Zoning Board voted on the alternative option.
Mr. Hartenstein reported that the Zoning Board discussed the alternative but did not take any action regarding it. He noted that staff recommended the total denial of the waiver, and stated that the Zoning Board recommended replacement of the trees at 25 percent.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
Mr. David Gay, managing member for Grass Roots Estates, LLC., commented that it appeared that everyone was in agreement for the rezoning request of the property, and opined that Grass Roots Estates is a unique community that will add interest and diversity to the County. He noted that there are some prospective purchasers that are ready to build immediately. He explained that a full waiver for the tree replacement was made because the property was historically a citrus grove with some pine trees, and commented that the remaining oak trees are young and in poor condition. He stated that staff performed a site visit on the property and acknowledged that there are over 2,000 trees. He indicated that this project would remove 106 trees totaling only five percent of the total trees on the property. He mentioned that he submitted photographs of the woods and split oak trees to staff to represent the kind of trees in the proposed grass taxi way, and noted that every effort was made to locate the taxi way in an area to minimize the impact of tree removal. He reported that there is a nice tree canopy around the entire parameter that creates a good buffer and is internally located on the property with the nearest neighbor being more than 580 feet away. He commented that the Lake County Landscape Ordinance allows for the removal of trees in a road right-of-way to be exempt from the replacement requirement when the project is approved by the Commission, and opined that this project should be exempt from having to replace the trees.
Commr. Cadwell noted that this taxi way is not open to the public and would therefore be considered like a private driveway.
Mr. Gay stated that the Landscape Ordinance also allows for 30 caliper inches to be exempt, and commented that Grass Roots Estates was only allotted 30 caliper inches for the entire property when he felt that it should be 30 inches per platted lot. He stated that the tree replacement is imposing a financial burden on the property owner, and reported that they proposed a compromise with staff to replace the trees at half the requirement of the ordinance. He commented that the Zoning Board approved the proposed compromise by a vote of 6-1. He asked the Board to approve the Zoning Board’s recommendation to allow the trees to be replaced on the adjacent PUD at a rate of 25 percent of the total caliper inches determined by the tree survey with the 30 caliper inch exemption. He noted that the replacement trees are nicer than the ones being removed and will result in much nicer growth.
Commr. Cadwell stated that there has been mention of the adjoining PUD, and asked what the total acreage is for the property.
Mr. Hartenstein reported that there are a total of 73 acres.
The Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comments for the Board.
Commr. Conner asked how many trees are on the 73 acres.
Mr. Hartenstein stated that staff does not have a full count of everything on the property, but estimated that there are over 2,000 trees. He presented a map of the project, and indicated the amount of trees on the picture.
Commr. Conner commented that there were a lot of trees based on the Google map.
Commr. Cadwell opined that it is important to maintain the integrity of the tree ordinance, and stated that there must be good reasoning behind compromising the ordinance. He reminded the Board that there was a lot debate over the creation of the ordinance, and noted that the Board wanted a strict ordinance. He stated that he was comfortable with the logic to exclude the pine trees, and commented that he would only support the third alternative to exclude the pine trees or to uphold the tree ordinance for the full amount.
Commr. Stewart opined that the third alternative is a good compromise.
Commr. Hill commented that it appeared that the pine trees totaled 25 percent of the total to be removed.
Mr. Hartenstein explained that the Zoning Board recommended that 25 percent of all trees including the pine trees be replaced, and clarified that the first option also included the pine trees in the calculation.
Commr. Conner asked for clarification on the Chairman’s recommendation.
Commr. Cadwell stated that it was his recommendation that the tree replacement be calculated according to the tree ordinance at 50 percent of the total removed minus the 38 pine trees or 269 caliper inches.
Commr. Hill asked if staff calculated the exemption of 30 caliper inches per lot.
Mr. Hartenstein explained that staff allotted only 30 caliper inches because there is only one common owner for all of the property.
Commr. Conner commented that he regretted a past vote because he took a hard line stand based on policy and later realized that there are times when waivers should be granted. He asked if 2,000 trees on 73 acres are enough without requiring larger amount of tree replacement. He mentioned that this scenario may not have been anticipated when the ordinance was written, and opined that he does not want to require someone to plant trees if there is not a need for it.
Commr. Cadwell opined that the Board wrote the ordinance the way they did to ensure that the County had a tree canopy. He commented that he did not know if 2,000 small trees were enough, but stated that the County does have an ordinance that requires the replacement of any removed trees by a predetermined amount of caliper inches.
Commr. Conner commented that the only reason he is struggling with this issue is because of the number of trees already on the property.
Commr. Renick noted that the applicant is receiving credit for the pine trees in staff’s recommendation, and stated that the replacement trees could be planted elsewhere if there is not enough room on the property.
Commr. Cadwell clarified that if there is not enough space on the property after the building has been completed then the replacement trees may be planted on public land.
Commr. Conner reiterated that Mr. Gay indicated that the replacement trees would be nicer than the existing trees. He stated that he was inclined to support the Planning and Zoning Board’s recommendation. He commented that he would support the third alternative because it appeared that the majority of the Commission was in favor of that alternative.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried by a vote of 4-1, the Board approved Rezoning Case No. PH#15-10-3 and required the applicant to replace the removed trees according to the Landscape Ordinance minus the 38 pine trees or 269 caliper inches.
Commr. Hill voted “no.”
rezoning case no. CUP#10/6/2-3 hansen’s world wakeboard center
Mr. Hartenstein stated that the next case is an application by Andy and Joni Hansen to renew their Conditional Use Permit (CUP). He reported that staff recommends approval of this request as it is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and LDRs. He noted that this CUP has previously been before the Board over the past several years.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
The Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comments for the Board.
Commr. Hill confirmed with Mr. Hartenstein that staff has not received any complaints regarding this operation. She asked that the Board approve this CUP without a renewal requirement since there was not any opposition.
Commr. Cadwell explained that this request is for a regular CUP that will not have an expiration date associated with it. He noted that there was some historic opposition and concerns regarding this operation, but opined that the applicants have proven themselves to be a good operation.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved CUP#10/6/2-3.
presentations
griffin view drive and harbor hills boulevard
Mr. Duane Booth, P.E., Booth, Ern, Straughan & Hoitt, Inc. (BESH), stated that his firm was hired by Lake County to perform an Engineering Study of the intersection at Griffin View Drive and Harbor Hills Boulevard to determine possible traffic calming alternatives for the sight distance and speed issues related with the intersection. He reported on the existing conditions at the site including the posted speed limits, limited right of way and profile grade of the location. He mentioned that there are approximately 200 trips on East Griffin View Drive and 800 trips on West Griffin View Drive originating from Harbor Hills. He commented that the 85th percentile speed based on the speed study was 46 mph in the posted 35 mph zone, and noted that eight percent of the trips had speeds exceeding 50 mph. He reported that there have not been any reported crashes at this intersection between January 2000 and March 2010; however, there were crashes reported at a nearby four way stop and at a nearby offset street west of this location. He presented images to depict the topography and profile of the location, and stated that the best fit vertical curve is between 25 mph and 30 mph. He discussed the various design alternatives as follows; three way stop condition with rumble strips, curb section with a dedicated east bound left turn lane, re-alignment of vertical curve for 40 mph design speed, re-alignment of vertical curve for 45 mph design speed, re-alignment of the intersection’s horizontal geometry, addition of an acceleration lane for drives exiting Harbor Hills west bound on Griffin View Drive, addition of speed humps and an intersection modification with the installation of a roundabout. He commented that alternate one is the least expensive and easiest to implement because it does not require any right-of-way, but noted that there would be wheel noise associated with the rumble strips and that the three way stop may increase the risks of accidents. He opined that he would not make any changes to the intersection before selecting this alternative because he believes this alternative will cause accidents at the intersection. He reported that alternate three is a vertical re-alignment that will require right-of-way, grading and will involve cutting down the hill to address the sight distance issue. He stated that this option would cost approximately $290,000. He commented that alternative five is the preferred and recommended alternative because it provides the desired traffic calming, is median priced at approximately $72,000 and only requires right-of-way from Harbor Hills.
Commr. Cadwell asked for clarification on the flow of traffic with alternate five.
Mr. Booth described the flow of traffic for motorists traveling both east and west from Harbor Hills.
Commr. Renick opined that this option would slow down the traffic for this intersection.
Mr. Minkoff informed the Board that the residents of Harbor Hills and those located to the east of Harbor Hills were provided a notice of today’s meeting.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board would hear public comment after a short recess.
recess and reassembly
The Chairman announced that there would be a fifteen minute recess at 10:07 a.m.
griffin view drive and harbor hills boulevard cont’d.
Mr. Lew Jones, Harbor Hills Resident and Vice-President of the Property Owners of Harbor Hills (POHH), commended the County Commissioners for a job well done, and expressed his support for alternate five.
Mr. Donald Lowe, Resident of Griffin View Drive, stated that his property abuts the east entrance or Harbor Hills, and opined that alternate five is the best solution and will solve a lot of problems. He commented that speed is a big concern for this intersection.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the County will be able to implement alternative five and include it in the 2011 Road Program.
Ms. Sheryl Leon, Resident of Griffin View Drive, expressed concern about the lighting at this intersection specifically with the re-alignment of the road with alternate five. She commented that there is a problem with the signage at Harbor Hills because a lot of motorists miss that street. She reported that there is a small sign before the intersection, but opined that the sign is not large enough.
Commr. Cadwell stated that staff would research the concerns on lighting, and noted that the new alignment would change the flow of traffic to hopefully eliminate or reduce the number of motorists missing Harbor Hills Boulevard.
Mr. George Fetrow, Lake County Resident, opined that it is not fair that the Harbor Hills residents do not have to stop in the new alignment of the intersection while the residents east of the development will be required to stop. He noted that Harbor Hills has two entrances for its residents.
Commr. Cadwell acknowledged the frustration of the inconvenience of an additional stop, but explained that 80 percent of the traffic is a result of Harbor Hills and that the Commission is concerned with making the intersection safer for everyone.
Mr. Ira Flagg, Lake County Resident, commented that there are a lot of motorists that miss the turn for Harbor Hills and end up at his home. He suggested installing a 100 foot turn lane to allow motorists to ease onto Harbor Hills. He expressed concern that a lot of motorists are not stopping at the current Harbor Hills stop sign.
The Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comment for the Board.
Commr. Renick opined that she was happy that the Board was taking a proactive approach regarding this intersection to prevent accidents.
Commr. Conner commended BESH on doing a good job, and commented that he was impressed with the thoroughness of their analysis.
On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved alternative five of the engineering study to re-align the horizontal geometry of the intersection at Griffin View Drive and Harbor Hills Boulevard.
laroe pavilion
Mr. Sandy Minkoff reported that staff expressed concerns regarding the safety and condition of the LaRoe Pavilion while he was touring the fairgrounds, and stated that the County engaged a structural engineer to evaluate the building. He commented that the engineer’s initial report indicated that the building needed substantial repairs and that it would cost more to repair the structure than to replace it. He stated that the engineer stated that the building could continue to be used as long as there were not winds exceeding 10 miles per hour within two miles of the facility. He reported that the County stopped using the building approximately two weeks ago. He explained that staff’s request for approval to demolish the structure is based upon the engineer’s finding that the current building is out of compliance with the current building codes and that it would be more cost effective to replace the building instead of repair it.
Commr. Cadwell asked how much the pavilion generates for the year.
Mr. Greg Mihalic, Tourism and Business Relations Division Director stated that there are both season and off season rates and estimated that the pavilion generates $16,000 a year.
Mr. Charles Norris, II, Lake County Fair Manager, stated that his family has been involved with the Fair Association for many generations, and provided a history of the fairgrounds since it opened in 1969 noting that the Fair Association built most of the buildings on the property. He reported that the LaRoe Pavilion was built in 1971, and noted that there was an additional 50 feet added to the pavilion several years after the initial build. He stated that there have been several attempts to paint and upgrade the building over the past 40 years. He commented that the Lake County Chamber of Commerce started the flea market in 1972. He mentioned that the Fair Association used to be granted a ten year lease that protected them in the event that a new facility was built, and noted that now they are only given a one year lease. He reported that the Fair Association contacted a contractor who estimates that the building can be saved for approximately $50,000. He stated that the Fair Association may be able to help save the building, and opined that the County’s flea market will not survive without this building.
Commr. Cadwell commented that it is currently the slowest time of year for the flea market, and opined that if the Board was going to take action on this matter then they would have to do so now. He agreed that the Fair Association built most of the building on the property, and noted that the County has been hesitant to invest any money into that property because they were considering moving from that location. He recommended tearing down the existing building and replacing it, and commented that the building generates cash for the County which might increase with a newer building.
Commr. Stewart opined that this is an important building.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board could approve the plans to replace the building, but noted that the County Manager would have to present a funding plan and timeline to the Board.
Mr. Minkoff stated that the building would be eligible for sales tax funding, and commented that it would be placed in next year’s budget.
Commr. Cadwell informed Mr. Norris that the County would like to meet with them to determine what level of financial assistance the Fair Association could provide.
Commr. Hill remarked that this project is time sensitive, and noted that the removal of the building creates a hardship.
Mr. Minkoff commented that the County can start the design process and obtain firmer estimates if that is the Board’s desire.
Commr. Cadwell opined that the County needed to move quickly to make sure it is completed before the flea market’s busy time and the fair.
Commr. Conner asked if the pavilion was roped off and not in use based on the structural engineer’s findings. He commented that he hoped the new pavilion would keep the same name because there was a reason the structure was given its name.
Commr. Cadwell agreed that the name would remain the same.
Mr. Minkoff stated that if so directed by the Board, staff would leave the building until such time that the contractor could remove and replace the building at one time, and noted that staff would make sure that the building was not being used.
Commr. Cadwell asked if the Board could use any of the tourism funding.
Mr. Mihalic commented that he did not believe this building meet the requirements of the ordinance, and directed the Board to the County Attorney’s Office.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the County Attorney’s Office could inform the Board on the availability of tourism dollars when the financial plan and timeline are presented.
Mr. Minkoff explained that unless it becomes an immediate hazard, the County will not remove the building in an effort to get the removal and replacement on one contract.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the replacement of the LaRoe Pavilion with the stipulation that the existing structure would not be removed until it could be replaced, unless there was an immediate hazard, and directed staff to bring back a funding plan and timeline.
public hearings
fy 2010-11 community development block grant (Cdbg) funds
Ms. Dottie Keedy, Director of Economic Development and Community Services Department, reported that the 2010/2011 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding Cycle starts with the public hearing prior to the publication of the 2010 Action Plan. She explained that the intent of the public hearing is to provide opportunities for public comment on community needs, program performance and proposed uses of funds for the coming year. She stated that the concept budget will continue with the urban partner concept, Community Health Worker Program, Prescription Assistance Program and the Housing Rehabilitation Program which leaves $306,927 for community projects. She commented that the concept budget will be available for public inspection for the next 30 days upon the Board’s approval, and noted that the budget is expected to be adopted in early August.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
Mr. Vance Jochim, Tavares resident who writes a blog about fiscal issues in Lake County, confirmed with Ms. Keedy that most or all of these funds are federal funds. He opined that the 20 percent administration cost seems high, and suggested that the ratio of administration to actual program costs should be monitored. He inquired about the ability to use the CDBG funds for economic development, and commented that none of the projects listed is for economic development. He asked the Board to abandon the old socialism approach and to find ways to allocate funds for economic development.
Commr. Conner noted that some of the projects on the list are infrastructure projects that will create jobs for the people putting in the roads and sidewalks.
Mr. Jochim clarified that he was referring to new job creation.
Commr. Conner commented that he did not disagree that these projects would not reduce the unemployment rate, but noted that some of these projects will put people back to work.
The Chairman closed the public hearing.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Conner and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Conceptual Plan for the Fiscal Year 2010/2011 Community Development Block Grant Funds.
lake county library system long range plan of service 2005-2011
Ms. Wendy Breeden, Public Resources Director, stated that any long range plans must be presented in a public hearing to allow comment from the cities as required in the Interlocal Agreement. She explained that staff is requesting a one year extension on the plan because they would like more time to get a better understanding of the direction of the County and to evaluate other planning methods. She reported that the State Library has approved this concept, as well as the library directors and Library Advisory Board. She noted that the Howey-in-the-Hills and Minneola libraries were not included in this plan, but stated that they were included in the Annual Plan of Services.
Commr. Renick asked if the Board was approving the basic plan only, and noted that there was some required updating for the members of the Library Advisory Board, staff information and the demographics.
Ms. Breeden stated that the State Library recommended that the County forward the old plan with a new date, and clarified that next year the plan would be rewritten to include the updated statistics and other data.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
The Chairman closed the public hearing and reserved comment for the Board.
Commr. Stewart commented that she was happy that all of the libraries were included.
On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the one year extension of the Lake County Library System Long Range Plan of Service 2005-2011.
COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS
community development block grant (CDBG) fund projects
Ms. Dottie Keedy, Economic Growth and Redevelopment and Community Services Director, asked for direction from the Board regarding the projects to be included under the Community Project Allocation of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Fund Conceptual Budget totaling $306,000.
Commr. Hill commented that the Southside Umatilla Water System/Planning, Okahumpka Community Center/Rosenwald School Renovation and the Harvest House Community Development Corporation for Montclair Community Center were her top priorities because she felt they were the most beneficial to have funded.
Commr. Stewart commented that she agreed with two of those projects. She stated that the services provided by Easter Seals at Camp Challenge are indescribable, and explained that they need assistance with the well tank replacement. She commented that the Sorrento and Mount Plymouth areas have missed out on these funds in the past, and supported keeping the Easter Seals Camp Challenge well tank replacement and Sorrento Park projects on the list.
Commr. Cadwell asked if there were any thoughts on saving the money for the Sorrento Park to be used at the park that will be at the school.
Commr. Stewart responded that the Sorrento Park is well used and located in the middle of a neighborhood which has some safety concerns.
Commr. Cadwell acknowledged that the Sorrento Park is in need of improvement.
Commr. Hill questioned if the Sorrento Park required the amount of funds requested, especially considering the new park at the school.
Commr. Stewart commented that the residents have been patient and deserve the improvements at the Sorrento Park. She stated that the park has been there for years without any assistance from the County. She opined that Mr. Bobby Bonilla, Parks and Trails Division Director, has made some improvements and done a good job, but commented that it is not enough.
Commr. Hill stated that she had the Easter Seals project on her list, but asked if the sewer is the County’s responsibility.
Commr. Renick commented that the CDBG funds are supposed to be concentrated in low and moderate income areas, and opined that the Board should keep that in mind when determining which projects should be funded.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the Umatilla water system and community center projects were important to him, and noted that the after school program and Meals on Wheels program are based at the community center. He explained that the funding for the community center would be to upgrade the electrical system to install computers for the children.
Commr. Stewart gave her support for the Umatilla community center project.
Commr. Conner commented that most of the projects fall into the category of low and moderate income areas. He stated that the Southside Umatilla water system falls into that category, and asked if $70,000 was going to fix that system.
Commr. Cadwell reported that the $70,000 was the cost for the engineering, and stated that the County is evaluating several funding options, including federal money.
Commr. Conner stated that the Southside Umatilla water system is owned by the County which came from a private utility, and opined that the County should put money into its own system before putting money into a private system, particularly with the amount of people affected by this project. He commented that there is a costly repair needed at this facility, and suggested allocating more CDBG funds to this project to minimize the amount that the County will have to use in the future. He stated that all of the projects are worthy; however, the Southside Umatilla water system is the County’s responsibility.
Commr. Stewart commented that the Southside Umatilla water system was one of her priorities.
Commr. Hill asked if any of the projects have been bid.
Ms. Keedy stated that the figures are only estimates.
Mr. Minkoff clarified that the figure on the Umatilla water system is a firm price because the City of Umatilla received a price from their city engineer.
Commr. Hill stated that the Southside Umatilla water system is her number one priority because it is a health and safety issue. She expressed concern about getting involved with a private sewer project because it might create a liability for the County if something else is uncovered.
Commr. Stewart stated that the funding would only be for the well tank replacement. She invited the Board to visit Camp Challenge during their summer camp program to witness the indescribable services they provide to the adults and children that attend the program. She stated that Easter Seals is struggling financially, and opined that their organization is a worthy place to invest the CDBG funding.
Commr. Hill asked if there was another program that could fund the well tank replacement for Camp Challenge.
Mr. Minkoff explained that the County has an inspection program, but stated that the program does not have any funding for replacement.
Commr. Hill expressed concern that the County would be liable if something was uncovered during the tank replacement.
Commr. Stewart stated that the County would only be responsible for the tank replacement.
Commr. Cadwell commented that he likes to review who has previously received funding and the status of those projects. He cautioned the Board about withholding funding if the Board previously granted funding to start a project and more funds are required to complete it, regardless of whether the Board agrees if the project should have been started or not.
Ms. Keedy reported that Forest Hills Association and Friends of Ferndale have received funding in the past years.
Commr. Cadwell noted that the County just purchased some property in Ferndale, and commented that the Friends of Ferndale project may be put on hold for a while.
Commr. Conner thanked the Board for their support in the Ferndale area, and opined that he is more interested in properly managing the funds because not every project can be funded.
Commr. Renick asked for details on the Forest Hill Association project.
Ms. Keedy reported that the previous funding was to convert a former fire station into a community center.
Commr. Renick asked if this was one of the projects that the Chairman was referring to when he cautioned the Board not to stop a project before completion.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the building may not be everything they want it to be, but noted that it is functional.
Ms. Keedy reported that the Forest Hills Association has already received $154,000.
Commr. Cadwell asked for clarification on the timing that the Board will hear comments regarding the selected projects.
Ms. Keedy explained that the public will have 30 days to review the project list and a public hearing will be scheduled to adopt the plan in August.
Commr. Cadwell agreed that the Board has spent a lot of money on the Forest Hills project, and stated that he would have some dialogue with them since the Board needs to remove some of the projects from the list.
Commr. Renick suggested removing the Forest Hills Association project.
Commr. Cadwell recommended removing the Friends of Ferndale project.
Commr. Stewart asked if the Board could discuss the Astor area Chamber of Commerce electronic emergency notification project. She commented that it appears the request is for flashing signs to warn of potential flooding.
Commr. Conner questioned the amount of $38,000 for signs.
Mr. Minkoff stated that it was his understanding that it is for an electronic sign.
Commr. Cadwell suggested removing this project, and noted that he would have some discussion with the Astor Chamber of Commerce.
Commr. Stewart stated that if one more project was removed, then the Camp Challenge and Sorrento Park projects could be funded.
Commr. Conner asked what the Board thought of his suggestion to raise the funding amount for the Southside Umatilla water system.
Commr. Cadwell stated that he liked the suggestion to raise the funding, but noted that without proceeding further the amount needed for the project is unknown.
Commr. Renick clarified that the $70,000 is what is known to be needed for this year, and commented that this project would be the top priority for next year.
Commr. Cadwell stated that there will be a lot more money needed for this project in the future, and thanked the Board for their understanding of the importance and cost of this project to the County.
Commr. Hill asked if the $156,000 would complete the Okahumpka Community Center renovation.
Ms. Keedy reported that the $156,000 is a match for another funding source that Okahumpka is trying to obtain to complete the renovations.
Commr. Stewart asked what will happen if they do not obtain the match funds.
Ms. Keedy stated that they have applied for the funding but have not received any at this point.
Commr. Hill explained that she wanted to keep them on the list because of the matching funds, and stated that if they don’t receive the match, then the funds could always roll back into the budget. She commented that Montclair has not received any funding.
Commr. Stewart commented that Sorrento has not received any funding either.
Commr. Hill agreed with Commr. Stewart, but opined that when the new park opens a lot of the residents are going to use the new park. She stated that she agrees that there may be a need for security lighting at Sorrento Park.
Commr. Stewart commented that the community really uses the Sorrento Park.
Commr. Hill noted that the community uses that park because that is the only one in the area.
Commr. Stewart explained that Sorrento Park is not close to the other park, and noted that it would require a great deal of walking to the new park.
Commr. Conner commented that the County cannot continue to provide services at the current level. He opined that he would be willing to put a little bit of money into the park for security and lighting purposes, but stated that rural communities might have to have only one park instead of two. He asked if it would be wiser to repair Sorrento Park to a certain standard and then put the remaining funds into the new park that more people are going to use.
Commr. Cadwell commented that Sorrento Park is a walk up park and is located in an area that needs that kind of park because there are residents that will not be able to get to the other park. He suggested reducing the funding to the Sorrento Park from $153,000 to approximately $100,000. He stated that the removal of the Forest Hills, Friends of Ferndale, and Astor projects along with the reduction of funding for Sorrento Park would balance the fund.
Commr. Stewart stated that the reduced funding would still be enough to install lighting to address the security issues.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the Parks Director can do a lot with $100,000.
Commr. Conner asked what the Board’s thoughts were on the funding of the Umatilla water system. He asked if a majority of the funding would go to that project next year.
Mr. Minkoff stated that staff is hoping that there will be access to grants once the engineering is completed, and explained that one of the obstacles has been that the County has not had something that is ready to build. He opined that once the design was completed, the County would have access to other funds to build it, and noted that this project will be a priority in the next fiscal year to receive CDBG funding.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board removed the Astor Area Chamber of Commerce project, Forest Hills Association project, and Friends of Ferndale project from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Projects List and reduced the funding for the Sorrento Park project from $153,000 to approximately $100,000 to balance the funding for the next fiscal year.
employee medical and dental contribution rates for fy 2010/11
Mr. Minkoff stated that historically staff has not presented the medical and dental plans and associated costs to the Board for approval, but explained that staff was presenting it to the Board for approval this year before open enrollment begins. He recommended that there not be any changes to the plan or to the employee contribution amount. He noted that he provided the Board with an outline of the plan benefits, and reported that claims have been favorable this year which can be attributed to the employee’s remaining well. He stated that he would like to see an increased emphasis on wellness as it translates into lower claims. He commented that the majority of the employees are lower paid and have not received a raise in three years. He reported that the County’s contribution rates for single employees are equal to or greater than most and the County subsidizes family coverage more than some. He indicated that the County is in the same ballpark as large private sector employers.
Commr. Conner stated that he does not support staff’s recommendation. He commented that the County has done an excellent job at holding down medical costs, but opined that the Board should not approve the current plan without reviewing other alternatives. He agreed that the Board should research and consider adding some of the wellness programs as they reduce cost. He reported that private businesses have been forced to look into alternatives and make decisions that they would not have made in the past. He stated that he would feel more comfortable if the Board reviewed alternatives even if the end result was the same.
Commr. Hill commented that it was her understanding that the County went through that exercise a year ago when the Board made the decision to go back to Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Commr. Conner clarified that he meant the County should look at alternative plans not at different companies.
Commr. Renick stated that she could not support raising the employee contribution rates.
Commr. Conner suggested that the Board review all options. He stated that some plan changes might reduce the cost with a small sacrifice in benefits.
Commr. Renick stated that she felt strongly that the Board should not alter the benefit package after everything the employees have been through.
Commr. Stewart agreed and commented that the employees have already made sacrifices.
Commr. Cadwell noted that the fund is in good shape.
Commr. Hill commented that the Board surveyed employees when they were evaluating a new company last year to determine what components in the plan were important to the employees.
On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried by a vote of 4-1, the Board approved the employee medical and dental plans with no changes to the plan provisions or employee contribution rates for Fiscal Year 2010/2011.
Commr. Conner voted “no.”
developer’s agreement between long and scott farms, orlando north airpark and lake county
Ms. Amye King, Growth Management Director, stated that the next item is a Developer’s Agreement for Mitigation of Development Impacts between Long and Scott Farms Family Limited Partnership, Orlando Northair Park, Inc., collectively known as the developer, and Lake County. She commented that the developer owns approximately 454 acres located at the west end of Jones Avenue at the Orange and Lake County boundary. She stated that the property currently includes Long & Scott Farms, and Orlando Northair Park which is a privately owned airport facility with 50 hangers for single and light twin engine planes, and noted that a small segment of the air strip and the storm water management area is located in Lake County. She reported that Lake County approved a rezoning request from Agriculture to Community Facilities District in 2004.
Commr. Renick stated that the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has questioned the Orange County Comprehensive Plan, and asked to postpone this Agreement until the DCA has resolved their concerns with Orange County.
Commr. Cadwell asked how the postponement today will affect the process.
Ms. King stated that postponement will only delay the decision.
Commr. Conner asked how Commr. Renick was aware that DCA had a problem with Orange County’s plan.
Commr. Renick responded that she had inquired with staff regarding the status of Orange County’s Comprehensive Plan.
Ms. King reported that Orange County adopted their Comprehensive Plan on June 22, 2010 which was objected by DCA and is currently in a compliance review. She stated that it is her understanding that Orange County is working to be found in compliance, and noted that the notice of intent should be issued on or about July 13, 2010. She explained that today’s vote would have been to approve or deny the Developer’s Agreement, and mentioned that the developer would be required to come back before the Board for any rezoning. She reported that in 2004 it was agreed that any land use changes happening on the Orange County side within this development would have to be approved by the Lake County Commission, and explained that the proposed Developer’s Agreement states that the Lake County Commission agrees with the land use amendments that have been made.
On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board postponed this matter until the issues between Orange County and the Department of Community Affairs have been resolved regarding the Orange County Comprehensive Plan.
neighborhood lakes land management plan
Ms. Wendy Breeden, Public Resources Director, stated that Mr. David Hansen would give a brief presentation of the Management Plan for the Neighborhood Lakes property. She explained that there is an estimated fiscal impact listed; however, staff is not requesting approval to expend those funds.
Mr. David Hansen, Public Lands Program Manager, stated that staff would like approval of the Management Plan for the Neighborhood Lakes property which was developed by staff and the Public Lands Acquisition Advisory Council (PLAAC), and noted that the County has received approval from the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). He reported that the property was purchased by Lake County and the SJRWMD. He explained that once the Management Plan is approved by the Board, it will be presented to the SJRWMD Board. He reiterated that the restoration of the property will take years to complete so the estimated fiscal impact is for the total cost of the project over the years. He stated that the Neighborhood Lakes property is comprised of 1,584 acres located on SR 46 east of Mount Plymouth in Lake and Orange Counties. He reported that the property was purchased for $74 million by Lake County, SJRWMD, Orange County, State of Florida and the Expressway Authority, and noted that Lake County owns 210 acres with SJRWMD which was purchased for $5 million. He reported that the community composition is made up of remnant lakes, emergent freshwater vegetation type wetlands, freshwater marsh, mixed wetland hardwoods, mixed hardwoods and mostly rural land and transition. He displayed pictures of the property. He stated that the Florida Black Bear, Florida Pine Snake, Florida Sandhill Crane and gopher tortoises have been sighted or are known to use the property. He displayed a list of invasive or exotic plants on the property ranging from Caesar’s weed to Mimosa and Tropical Soda Apple with the most prevalent being Cogon grass. He commented that there are some non-native animals including the feral hog, Nine-banded Armadillo, Brown Anole and the Cuban Tree Frog. He stated that staff reviewed various things regarding the restoration including historical aerial photos dating back to 1941 and the soil conditions at the site. He reported that the key land management activities include prescribed burning, invasive exotic plant removal, invasive exotic animal control and removal, and the planting of native species. He explained that the conceptual plan includes some low key paths of recreation with a looping trail with an area to park and picnic. He noted that the gopher tortoise population is larger than expected which is probably a result of the home construction that has taken place over the years. He commented that it is not the ideal habitat for the tortoises, but stated that this site could be used to relocate tortoises in the future if there is a low enough density.
Commr. Stewart asked if there is an opportunity to expand the tortoise habitat on this property.
Mr. Hansen responded that staff and Orange County have contemplated the possible revenue generation by expanding the gopher tortoise habitat, but noted that the Expressway is going to impact tortoises. He reported that the State of Florida plans to restore their land to a forested condition similar to the property located on the eastern side of Neighborhood Lakes which is estimated to take 50 years. He commented that this is the ideal plan for the property, but explained that these plans have to be adaptive.
Commr. Renick commented that it is important to note that PLAAC has a number of properties that are better for gopher tortoise relocation, and noted that PLAAC is trying to incorporate a relocation area in every park.
Mr. Hansen presented a diagram of the latest alignment for the Expressway, and stated that the area the County has labeled for restoration is scheduled for retention ponds according to the Expressway authority. He commented that some of the activities will be contingent upon the Expressway, but reported that the County could begin on the invasive plant control. He stated that there are plenty of opportunities for public involvement.
Commr. Hill asked if the SJRWMD was responsible for part of the cost of implementing the Management Plan.
Mr. Hansen explained that Lake County is responsible for the management of this property and all associated costs. He commented that hopefully the County will be able to generate some revenue with the gopher tortoise recipient site.
Commr. Hill asked if it would be feasible to remove some of the peat in the area where there used to be water in an attempt to increase the water area.
Mr. Hansen stated that it is a mystery why the water in this area has drawn down so much, and noted that the peat would tend to retain water as opposed to allowing it to perk into the ground. He commented that there are a lot of factors that would affect the water levels.
Commr. Cadwell asked staff to discuss the water levels and restoration with the SJRWMD.
Commr. Hill suggested utilizing some of the heavy equipment with the DOT or Expressway Authority to help reconfigure some of the property.
Commr. Renick commented that the County is not obligating any funds to this project, and explained that this is more of a wish list of items that the County would like to do if they had the available funding.
On a motion by Commr. Renick, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Management Plan for the Neighborhood Lakes property acquired through the Public Lands Program.
motorola maintenance contract
Mr. Minkoff stated that Tab 53 is a discussion of three separate issues regarding the Motorola Maintenance Contract for the countywide radio system. He reported that the County operated a Motorola radio system with a Motorola maintenance contract that expired in February 2010 prior to the new radio system, and noted that the intention was that the cost of the old system would be rolled into the new maintenance agreement in February 2010 which has been moved to August 1, 2010 due to delays in system start up. He stated that staff met with Motorola to discuss the County’s options on maintenance per the Board’s direction, and opined that the County must use Motorola for the maintenance because the hardware and software are so involved with Motorola efforts that it is unlikely that someone else could perform maintenance for the whole system. He reported that staff asked for a price reduction, and explained that Motorola granted an additional two months of warranty for an estimated cost of $269,000 and an agreement that they would not charge the County maintenance for the old system components which equals approximately $200,000 per year. He stated that the County owes $146,000 for the old system maintenance which has already been budgeted for this fiscal year, and noted that beginning October 1, 2010 the maintenance costs for the old and new system would be $1.6 million. He commented that staff noticed the police chiefs regarding the funding discussion of the system, and explained that Florida Statute provides that $12.50 per moving traffic violation is for the operation of the countywide radio communication system. He noted that prior to Lake County having the countywide system the $12.50 per ticket went to the entity that wrote the ticket. He stated that staff recommends collecting this fee beginning October 1, 2010 to manage the radio system. He commented that the second portion of the funding for the maintenance would come from Lake-Sumter EMS which is 75 percent owned by Lake County. He explained that Lake-Sumter EMS has does an excellent job with their budgets, and noted that they gave some money back to the County this fiscal year and agreed to a reduced budget for next fiscal year. He suggested reducing the Lake-Sumter EMS millage and increasing the General Fund millage to raise the remainder of the maintenance expense.
Chief J.M. Isom, Sr., City of Fruitland Park Police Chief and Director of Public Safety opined that the countywide radio system is the best that Lake County has ever had, but commented that the cities were told they would not have to use their automation funds. He noted that the City of Fruitland Park’s automation funds have already been allocated to pay for software used by the cities. He reported that when the County brought this matter to the cities in March 2010, the City of Fruitland Park asked for another two years before the County took the automation funding due to outstanding obligations for those funds. He stated that the cities will begin paying the user fee maintenance per radio in 2012 as well as having the automation funds reallocated to the County. He asked that the Board not take the automation funding from the cities.
Chief Steve Allen, City of Mascotte Police Chief and Director of Public Safety commented that the City of Mascotte has the same problem, as their automation funding has already been obligated because their last meeting with County staff stated that the funds would not be taken until the 2011/2012 budget. He opined that this is one of the best radio systems, and asked that the Board not take the automation funding until the 2011/2012 budget year.
Commr. Renick commented that she has a problem making the County’s budget problem a problem for the cities too. She expressed concern that Lake-Sumter EMS would be taking the whole hit for this cost, and opined that Lake-Sumter EMS was being punished for being fiscally responsible. She asked the Board what would happen if Lake-Sumter EMS had a need after the County depleted their budget. She questioned if there was any other way to cover this expense.
Mr. Minkoff reported that the County received funding from the E-911 accounts from cell phone fees, and explained that the County has notified the cities that provide dispatching that they are going to be allocated a larger share to pay for their 911 call taking. He stated that Lake-Sumter EMS would receive an additional $350,000 from the E-911 account; however, the Cities of Mascotte and Fruitland Park do not have any E-911 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPS) and would not receive this additional funding. He stated that the only other way for the County to pay for the countywide system would be through General Fund dollars. He opined that Lake-Sumter EMS is a function of Lake County because they are 75 percent owned by Lake County.
Commr. Stewart expressed concern that the cities are getting blindsided with the reallocation of the automation funds, and asked how the County has gotten to this point with so many unanswered questions.
Commr. Renick asked how many cities would not receive the additional funding from the E-911 account.
Mr. Minkoff stated that five or six of the fourteen municipalities would receive the increased funding, and noted that half of those municipalities contract with the Sheriff who would get that share to go against the municipalities’ contract costs.
Commr. Renick asked how much funding would be needed to not take the money from the cities that would not receive the additional E-911 funding.
Mr. Minkoff stated that the Clerk estimates that the County would receive approximately $325,000 if the County received all of the revenue, and noted that currently the County receives $116,000 while the remaining $208,000 is spread amongst all of the cities. He explained that the automation funding is based on the number of tickets while the E-911 funding is based on the number of calls.
Commr. Conner stated that he understood Commr. Renick’s position, but opined that the Board could not treat cities differently based on their dispatch services. He commented that the Board is going to have to treat all of the cities the same, and noted that this is a difficult situation because there was a lack of communication from the previous Public Safety Director and the cities. He opined that the funding should not come from the General Fund.
Commr. Renick stated that she understood the sentiment to treat all of the cities equally, and explained that she was trying to determine which cities would be most affected.
Mr. Minkoff commented that the cities that operate their own 911 call taking service would be getting increased funding that they had not anticipated, and asked Mr. Greg Holcomb, Public Safety Department, to inform the Board which cities would receive this funding.
Mr. Greg Holcomb, Public Safety Department stated that Lake County has nine PSAPS including Lake-Sumter EMS, Sheriff, Lady Lake, Clermont, Mount Dora, Tavares, Leesburg, Eustis and Groveland.
Chief Isom commented that he has had discussions with the chiefs of Tavares and Leesburg who have indicated that their automation funding has also already been obligated. He stated that he was the one to spearhead the request for automation funding in Tallahassee so the municipalities could purchase radios and laptops to automate their departments. He noted that they were told that the new radio system would be funded by the one cent sales tax. He stated that the cities have to start paying a maintenance fee per radio in 2012.
Commr. Cadwell reminded everyone that the County paid for the radios. He stated that the Board needs to give direction to the County Manager on where to fund the $325,000 shortfall if the Board is not going to reallocate the automation funding from the municipalities.
Commr. Hill asked if the amount includes the Sheriff’s ticket violations.
Mr. Holcomb stated that the County currently collects $116,000 for the Sheriff’s tickets.
Commr. Hill asked if there are other users of the radio system, like the School Board.
Mr. Holcomb explained that there are not any other users at this time; however, there are some cities that are contemplating having their Public Works departments utilize the system. He stated that the Public Works departments would fall under the same Interlocal Agreement with the cities and would be required to pay the fees once the warranty ends.
Mr. Minkoff noted that Mount Dora’s Public Works Department is already utilizing the system.
Commr. Hill asked if the Board is legally bound to collect the automation fees per Florida Statute.
Mr. Minkoff stated that the statute provides that the money should come to the County once there is a countywide radio system.
Commr. Stewart commented that staff told the municipalities that the County would not take this money, and opined that the Board should stick by that statement.
Commr. Hill noted that the contract included language regarding the fee being paid to the County once the radio system was up and running.
Mr. Holcomb stated that staff advised the municipalities in December that the County would begin to take those funds as of October 1, and commented that the follow up meeting in January is when the municipalities proposed that the County take those funds in 2012 to be consistent with the user maintenance fees. He reported that staff agreed to bring the municipalities’ proposal under consideration, and noted that the legal opinion of the County is that once the system is operational, the funds should be used for county support according to Florida Statute.
Commr. Conner asked if the cities were a part of the Motorola contract.
Ms. Marsh stated that the cities are not part of the Motorola contract, but they are part of the Interlocal Agreement which addresses the maintenance costs.
Mr. Holcomb explained that the maintenance costs in the Interlocal Agreement are attributed to the warranty of the subscriber units or the individual portables that each city uses. He stated that each radio was purchased with a three year warranty which the cities would begin paying for the warranty at the end of the initial three years.
Commr. Renick noted that the Interlocal is referring to the maintenance of the radios.
Mr. Holcomb stated that the Motorola maintenance contract would cover the infrastructure and tower equipment that runs the system.
Commr. Renick commented that she does not believe there was any misunderstanding in terms of the obligation the cities would have for the equipment after the initial period.
Mr. Minkoff stated that there is nothing in the agreement that addresses the statutory fee.
Commr. Conner asked how long the statutory fee has been in effect.
Mr. Holcomb explained that the statute was created in 1995 but was not relevant until the countywide system was operational.
Commr. Conner apologized for how things were represented to the cities, but noted that statutorily the money should go to the County. He stated that if the County is not going to accept those funds then the Board must determine how to fund the difference for the next year.
Commr. Cadwell asked if there was another way to fund the $208,000 shortfall other than the General Fund.
Mr. Minkoff stated that the funding must come from the General Fund. He explained that he asked the County Attorney if Lake-Sumter EMS could pay the fee directly which cannot be done, and noted that the Fire Fund is only for unincorporated portions of Lake County.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the only question is whether the Board is going to collect the fee this year or wait until next year.
Commr. Renick commented that the Board has not had a budget workshop in a while, and opined that she would like the opportunity to review the budget more thoroughly.
Mr. Minkoff stated that the Board could delay making a decision on the issue with the municipalities, but asked that the Board give the County Attorney authorization to work on the extension of the existing and new Motorola contracts and approve the Lake-Sumter EMS and County millage rates.
Commr. Renick opined that Lake-Sumter EMS is taking the full hit for the funding.
Commr. Cadwell commented that Lake-Sumter EMS’s money is the County’s money, and opined that EMS should be treated like another County department.
Commr. Renick asked what would happen if EMS needs an ambulance.
Commr. Cadwell commented that the EMS budget is in good shape, and noted that EMS is a big user of the system.
Commr. Renick asked if this was going to be the funding solution going forward.
Mr. Minkoff stated that this would be for this year only, and explained that the Board is not making EMS responsible, but is adjusting the millage rate for their budget. He stated that the County is funding 100 percent of their requested budget and will be reserving approximately $1 million in the County’s reserve which would be available if there was a need for additional funding.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board authorized the County Attorney to work on the extension of the existing and new Motorola contracts and approved the Lake-Sumter EMS and County millage rates.
Mr. Minkoff stated that staff is going to have the budget to the Board by July 15, 2010, and suggested bringing the discussion regarding the statutory fee back at the first meeting in August.
other business
solid waste alternatives task force
Commr. Conner stated that two of the applicants have very good credentials. He commented that he did not know Mr. Lindell Ray Dorsett, but opined that his credentials were impressive and more diversified than other members on the committee.
Commr. Renick agreed with Commr. Conner, and noted that Mr. Dorsett has both a chemical engineering background and a MBA. She opined that the business background would be very beneficial.
Commr. Hill asked if the Board had the fourth application from Ms. Chloe Sallin Gentry from Cherry Lake Tree Farm.
Commr. Conner suggested that the Board appoint Mr. Dorsett as the member and Ms. Gentry as an alternate to the committee because there has already been one resignation.
Commr. Cadwell asked if the Board would have to amend the resolution to appoint an alternate.
Ms. Marsh stated that the resolution would have to be amended.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board appointed Mr. Lindell Ray Dorsett to the Solid Waste Alternatives Task Force.
Commr. Conner asked for the Board’s feedback regarding the suggestion to add an alternate to this task force.
Commr. Renick opined that it was a good idea to add an alternate because she has heard concerns from the other members of the task force regarding attendance.
It was a consensus of the Board to direct staff to invite Ms. Chloe Gentry and inform her of the plans to add her as an alternate member.
library advisory board
On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board appointed Ms. Peggy Ernest to serve on the Library Advisory Board.
central florida sports commission
Commr. Cadwell commented that Mr. Stone and Mr. Beucher are the current members that work very hard for the Sports Commission, and opined that he would like to see them reappointed.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Stewart and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board recommended Mr. Michael Stone and Mr. Bud Beucher to serve on the Board of Directors for the Central Florida Sports Commission.
REPORTS – COUNTY ATTORNEY
early retiree reinsurance program
Ms. Marsh asked for approval to apply for the Early Retiree Reinsurance Program. She stated that staff applied to the program on Friday with the Chairman’s approval due to an application deadline. She explained that the purpose of the program is to provide reimbursement to participating employment based plans for a portion of the cost of health benefits for early retirees and their spouses, surviving spouses and dependants.
On a motion by Commr. Stewart, seconded by Commr. Hill and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the application to the Early Retiree Reinsurance Program.
REPORTS – COUNTY MANAGER
County department organization
Mr. Minkoff requested approval of the organizational changes as outlined in the Agenda.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the organizational changes to Public Safety, Conservation and Compliance, Environmental Utilities, Public Works, Growth Management, Employee Services, Public Resources and Information Technology Departments.
Commr. Conner commended Mr. Minkoff for eliminating administrative positions and the proposed reorganization, and commended staff for fulfilling their current duties while taking on the additional duties of other positions. He opined that the reorganization is efficient and will streamline the operation to make the County more effective.
Commr. Renick commented that some of the changes should have been done sooner, and praised the County Manager for the reorganization.
REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HILL – DISTRICT 1
probation, parole and community supervision proclamation
Commr. Hill requested approval of the proclamation for Probation, Parole and Community Service Supervision week for July 18 - 24, 2010.
On a motion by Commr. Hill, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation No. 2010-81 proclaiming the week of July 18 thru 24, 2010 as Probation, Parole and Community Service Supervision Week.
2-1-1 system
Commr. Hill reported that in the past she met with someone to speak about the 2-1-1 System which was cost prohibitive at the time. She stated that the cost of the system has gone down and would continue to decrease each year, and noted that the state has issued a deadline for all counties to enroll in the system. She opined that this system might be something the County would like to utilize now due to the volunteer program. She explained that the system compiles a database for community services that all users are able to use. She asked that the Board direct staff to review the information and determine if this is something the County can do next year.
Commr. Cadwell stated that the United Way funds this system in many areas.
Commr. Hill commented that the United Way is the organization that she met with, and stated the costs would be approximately $60,000 for the first year.
Commr. Stewart opined that this is a valuable service, and noted that she asked for a presentation on the system to be given before the Board.
Commr. Renick stated that she gave the information packet to the County Manager, and explained that the price for the system decreases as more counties participate.
Mr. Minkoff reported that staff will review the information and submit a full report back to the Board.
reports – commissioner renick – vice chairman and district 2
county manager position
Commr. Renick commented that there was a suggestion to consider recruiting someone for the County Manager position, and asked if the Board was going to discuss the options for filling the County Manager position. She opined that the process used last time would produce the same undesirable results.
Commr. Conner stated that the Board voted to suspend the hiring process until January, and asked if there was a desire to rescind that vote.
Commr. Renick responded that she did not want to rescind the previous vote to suspend the hiring process, but explained that she was inquiring if the Board wished to discuss the process that would be used once it began in January.
Commr. Cadwell stated that he was not clear during the previous discussion, and clarified that the Board would not repeat the same process as before.
reports – commissioner conner – district 3
florida association of counties
Commr. Conner reported that he attended some informative workshops and seminars at the Florida Association of Counties that included a speaker that is retired from the Department of Revenue who has some proven methods of projecting revenues. He stated that he learned that the economy is not going to recover to the level where it was anytime in the foreseeable future, and mentioned that there is no indication that there are going to be any revenue increases in the next two or three years. He commented that the BP oil spill is tainting all of Florida, and opined that Lake County and the other counties in the state need to distinguish themselves from the areas affected by the oil spill. He stated that there are some long term implications from the oil spill including declining property values. He mentioned that he would get the website address and distribute it to the Board since there is a lot of informative information.
REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STEWART – DISTRICT 4
employee recognition
Commr. Stewart stated that she received a letter from a citizen who was fined for obtaining an illegal permit, who commended Ms. Debbie Rosenmund, Zoning Department, for the friendly and professional manner that she handled his request. She thanked Ms. Rosenmund for her customer service efforts.
reports – commissioner CADwell – chairman and district 5
orange blossom express initiative liaison
Commr. Cadwell stated that the Lake-Sumter MPO has requested a liaison to serve on the Orange Blossom Express Initiative. He noted that the Board has not taken a position regarding the initiative, but commented that it is important to have a representative there for the discussions with FDOT, Orange County and the City of Apopka. He nominated Commr. Hill because she is the incoming chair of the Lake-Sumter MPO, and opined that she would be the perfect person for this position.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Renick and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board appointed Commr. Hill as the liaison to the Orange Blossom Express Initiative.
public comment
Commr. Cadwell reported that he did some research to determine how other governments throughout the state handle public comment during their meetings. He instructed the County Manager to compile better criteria to outline what issues can be discussed before the Board, establish a time limit and determine when public comment will be heard during the meeting. He commented that having the public comment at the beginning of the meeting will address some of the issues regarding citizens that want to speak about an item on the Agenda.
Commr. Renick commented that she was pleased with the way the Chairman allowed public comment during the meeting regarding the Harbor Hills matter even though it was not a public hearing.
Commr. Conner asked how the Board will handle the situation if the public comment period exceeds the allocated time.
Commr. Cadwell stated that historically it has not been an issue.
Commr. Renick reported that it was a concern with the City of Clermont when they moved the public comment to the beginning of the meeting, which turned out to be a success, and opined that it is horrible to make citizens wait until the end of the meeting to address the Board.
Mr. Minkoff reminded the Board that there would not be a meeting next week.
CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD
There was no one present who wished to address the Board.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 11:13 a.m.
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welton g. cadwell, chairman
ATTEST:
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NEIL KELLY, CLERK