A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

December 20, 2016

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 20, 2016 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:  Timothy I. Sullivan, Chairman; Josh Blake; Wendy Breeden; Leslie Campione, Vice Chairman and Sean Parks.  Others present were:  David Heath, County Manager; Melanie Marsh, County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, County Manager’s Office; Neil Kelly, Clerk of Court; Kristy Mullane, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Angela Harrold, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION and pledge

Dr. Alan Holden from the Midway Baptist Church in Leesburg gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

agenda update

There were no updates to the agenda.

minutes approval

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Breeden, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of November 8, 2016 (Regular Meeting), November 16, 2016 (Special Meeting) and November 22, 2016 (Regular Meeting) as presented.

citizen question and comment period

Mr. Thomas Madden, a resident of Clermont, encouraged the Board to approve Tab 21 regarding the completion of Sawgrass Bay Boulevard to the east.  He stated that he and other area residents would be glad to see that happen because there were not a lot of good alternatives for egress to the east other than Hartwood Marsh Road and State Road 192.  He pointed out that having Sawgrass Bay Boulevard as an option would be good for the residents. 

presentation of proclamation honoring sheriff borders

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Parks, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Proclamation 2016-142 honoring Sheriff Gary Borders for his years of service.

Commr. Sullivan presented and read Proclamation 2016-142 honoring Sheriff Borders.

Commr. Campione thanked Sheriff Borders for responding to the needs of the community and stated that she was really proud and appreciated all of the work that he has done in the county.

Commr. Breeden stated that she had worked previously with the Sheriff’s office in other capacities and noted that the staff and deputies were always professional and reliable.  She thanked him for his service to Lake County.

Commr. Parks recalled a time when he and Sheriff Borders were at Cagan Crossing and a resident came over to praise Sheriff Borders for all he had done in the community.  He stated that Sheriff Borders had earned the respect and love the community has for him because of how much he cares for the residents and the County.  He mentioned that he saw the respect the officers of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office have for Sheriff Borders. He felt that the vision of the Sheriff had always been in line with that of the Board’s, and he was always proactive in providing a safe community. He thanked him for everything that he has done for the county, residents, and the Board.

Commr. Blake stated that he had worked with Sheriff Borders in a previous position and noted that the Sheriff’s job approval ratings were always high due to the trust and support from the citizens of Lake County.  He thanked the Sheriff for all of the work he has done and wished him the best.

Commr. Sullivan commented that the Sheriff had always had integrity and was professional, and he thanked him for his service to the community.

Sheriff Borders thanked the Board for the kind words. He stated that the good things in the county were not always portrayed in the media, but working with the Board and Constitutional Officers for 10 years had shown him that the goal had always been about doing the right thing for the county.  He stated that he felt the elected officials throughout the county truly work hard to improve the quality of life in Lake County.  He commended law enforcement for the job they do and asked that the support for them continue.  He thanked his command staff that were present and commented that he was honored to work with them. He thanked everyone for giving him the opportunity to serve as Sheriff of Lake County.

PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION supporting icamr

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Campione, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Proclamation 2016-131 supporting the International Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing Research (ICAMR).

Commr. Parks presented and read Proclamation 2016-131. He introduced Mr. Don Fisher, Osceola County Manager, and Mr. Chester Kennedy, the Chief Executive Officer of ICAMR.

Mr. Fisher thanked the Board and Commissioner Parks for the understanding and vision that Lake County has in regards to Osceola County and its goals. He commented that it is a tremendous recognition and that both counties can benefit from the investment that Osceola and the University of Central Florida (UCF) are making.  He stated that Lake County has the commitment from the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners to work together, as there will be enough capacity as well as jobs that will come from the investment. He pointed out that a similar venture is happening in Austin, Texas, and the positive effects are felt many miles outside the borders of the county where the manufacturer is located. He commented that as things start to develop, they will continue to work with the Board and the Economic Growth Department by attending meetings and supporting Lake County in its mission to diversify the economy.

Mr. Kennedy thanked the Board as well for the recognition and noted that it was good to see regional cooperation between the two counties.  He recalled that he was skeptical when he heard of the microelectronics foundry being built in Osceola County.  He stated that there is a different skill level needed to be able to take advantage of that capability. He said as the conversation evolved, it was clear that Osceola County and UCF were partnering to recruit Imec, a global leader of nanotechnology, to come and run a design center that would be at the front end of the manufacturing capability.  He commented that Imec chose to come here and establish a new United States entity and be the partner in the design center.  He opined that ICAMR alone would not have been enough for Imec to make the decision to come to Central Florida to establish the partnership, but it also took into account the entire region’s infrastructure, its emphasis on wellness through medical research, and what is happening on the Space Coast of Florida as reasons to bring Imec to Central Florida. He reiterated that he is proud of the partnership and that working together will make it successful.

Commr. Sullivan thanked them for being there and stated that he looks forward to the partnership not only on behalf of the Board but also for the citizens and the job creation that will come to Lake County.

Commr. Parks thanked them for coming, and he encouraged the Board to spend time with Mr. Fisher, Mr. Kennedy and the Osceola County Commissioners to hear about ICAMR first hand and how it will benefit Lake County.

Commr. Campione commented that Lake County is working on its own manufacturing project at Lake Technical College with the leadership of Dr. Diane Culpepper, the Director of Lake Technical College. She mentioned that at first she was concerned how ICAMR would impact the project at Lake Tech, but she learned that both projects could together feed off of each other after speaking with Dr. Culpepper. She pointed out that it was the perfect opportunity for the type of manufacturing being promoted at the ICAMR facility and what Lake Tech hopes to accomplish.  She encouraged them to stay in close contact with Dr. Culpepper to continue to facilitate the partnership.

CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Clerk of Courts’ Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 6, as follows:

List of Warrants

Request to acknowledge receipt of the 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.

Inspector General Report BCC-149

Request to acknowledge receipt of Inspector General Report BCC-149 Audit of Fire Rescue.

Lands Available List – February 26, 2017

Request to acknowledge receipt of property placed on the Lands Available List.  Lake County has until February 26, 2017 to purchase property from the Lands Available List before it is available to the public.

Ordinances; City of Fruitland Park

Request to acknowledge receipt of a letter from the City of Fruitland Park stating that its City Commission on November 10 enacted the following ordinances:

Ordinance 2016-024 amending the boundaries of the City of Fruitland Park to include within the city limits approximately one acre of land generally located north of CR 466A and west of Timbertop Lane.

Ordinance 2016-026 amending the boundaries of the City of Fruitland Park to include within the city limits approximately six acres of land generally located north of CR 466A and west of Timbertop Lane.

Lands Available List – March 01, 2017

Request to acknowledge receipt of property placed on the Lands Available List.  Lake County has until March 01, 2017 to purchase property from the Lands Available List before it is available to the public.

Florida Public Service Commission Amendatory Order

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Amendatory Order before the Florida Public Service Commission to the application for increase in water and wastewater rates in Charlotte, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Seminole Counties by Utilities, Inc. of Florida.  Docket No. 160101-WS. Order No. PSC-16-0526A-PCO-WS. Issued: December 2, 2016.

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

Commr. Parks requested that Tab 7 be pulled and discussed on the regular agenda.

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Breeden and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 5, 6, and 8 through 21, as follows:

Proclamation

Request approval of Proclamation 2016-143 honoring Martin Luther King, per Commissioner Sullivan.

Community Services

Request approval and authorization for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to sign the Agreement between Lake County and We Care of Lake County, Inc. for operation of the Lake County We Care program, effective 10/1/16 through 9/30/17 and approval of an Unanticipated Revenue Resolution 2016-144 for the receipt and appropriation of unexpended funds from FY 2015-2016. The fiscal impact is $134,912 (Expense).

Request approval for the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to renew for a one year period the Agreement between Lake County and the Lake County School Board for continued funding to the Lake County Shared Services Network in the amount of $25,000 for FY 2016-2017. Funding will be taken from the Crime Prevention Fund established by the County pursuant to Florida Statute 775.083(2). The fiscal impact is $25,000 (Expense).

Request approval of the FY 2015-2016 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. There is no fiscal impact.

Community Safety and Compliance

Request approval to seek FDOT Drive It Home grant for the Keep Lake Beautiful program and approval for the County Manager to sign any associated documents if awarded.  The fiscal impact is up to $15,000 (Revenue).

Economic Growth

Request approval of City of Leesburg's annexation request of the 640 acre Lowrie Brown Investment Co. property, located on the east and west sides of CR 44 and south of CR 473 in the Leesburg area. 313 acres of the subject property are located within the Lake County and Leesburg Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement (ISBA), while 327 acres of the subject property are located outside of the ISBA.  Lake County must give approval of the annexation pursuant to Section 3(b) of the ISBA in order for Leesburg to annex any areas outside of the Leesburg ISBA. Commission District 3

Facilities Development and Management

Request approval of purchase contract for one (1) 4x4 utility tractor under Request for Quotation (RFQ) Q2017-00031 to Fields Equipment Company, Inc. (Minneola) for use by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Work Detail and funded by the Facilities and Fleet Management Department.  Also authorize execution of all procurement supporting documentation by the Procurement Office. The total fiscal impact is $29,290.00 (Expenditure).

Facilities Development and Management

Request approval of the Supervisor of Elections’ request for a budget transfer moving funds from the repair and maintenance account to the printing and binding account. The fiscal impact is $60,000.

Information Technology

Request approval and signature of the Microsoft Premier Support Services Agreement. The agreement will provide Microsoft technical support and assistance to the Information Technology Department. The fiscal impact is $63,320.

Public Resources

Request approval of Interlocal Agreement Between Lake County and the City of Fruitland Park Regarding Joint Development of a Soccer Field at Northwest Lake Community Park, and authorization for the Chairman to execute the Agreement. The fiscal impact is $50,000 in FY 2017 (Expenditure, with additional $50,000 in FY 2018). Commission District 5

Request approval to award contract 17-0403, Court Resurfacing for County Parks contract to Elite Court Construction (Winter Springs), and authorize Procurement Services to execute all supporting documentation. The estimated annual fiscal impact is $30,000.

Request approval of the University of Florida's recommendation that Juanita Popenoe be employed as Extension Agent IV, Fruit Crops, in the Lake County Extension Services Division, and request approval for the position to be designated as a 23E pay grade. The fiscal impact is $16,739.80 (Expenditure).

Public Works

Request approval and execution of the Economic Development Transportation Project Fund (Off-System Specific Appropriations) Agreement between Lake County and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and the supporting Resolution 2016-145, for the construction of Citrus Grove Road (Grassy Lake Road to North Hancock Road); and approve an Unanticipated Revenue Resolution 2016-146 (URR) to amend the Lake County FY 2017 budget. FPN# 435541-1-54-01. The fiscal impact is $1,500,000.00 (100% Grant Funded in FY 2017).  Commission District 2

Request approval of purchase of debris/waste roll-off containers under Request for Quotation (RFQ) Q2017-00027 from Iron Container (Boca Raton, FL) and Wastequip (Charlotte, NC) for use by the Solid Waste Division of Public Works, authorize execution of all procurement supporting documentation by the Procurement Office, and approve the attached budget transfer moving available funds out of the repair & maintenance account and into the capital equipment account. The total fiscal impact is $31,510.88 (Expenditure).

Request approval of the Economic Development Transportation Project Fund (Off-System Specific Appropriations) Agreement between Lake County and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and the supporting Resolution 2016-147, for the construction of the 4-laning of CR 466A (Miller Street), from Poinsettia Avenue to Century Avenue with drainage pipe and storm water pond construction continuing west to Pond 5; and request Approval to Advertise for Bids, and approve an Unanticipated Revenue Resolution 2016-148 (URR) to amend the Lake County FY 2017 budget. (FPN# 430253-4-54-01). The fiscal impact is $2,750,000.00 (100% Grant Funded in FY 2017). Commission District 5

Request approval to accept the final plats for Sawgrass Bay Phase 2A, Sawgrass Bay Phase 2B, and Sawgrass Bay Phase 2C, accept all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Sawgrass Bay Phases 2A, 2B, and 2C final plats, accept a performance bond in the amount of $168,901.41 posted for these three (3) plats, and execute a Developer’s Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and D.R. Horton, Inc. for Sawgrass Bay Phases 2A, 2B, and 2C.  Sawgrass Bay Phase 2A consists of 62 lots, Sawgrass Bay Phase 2B consists of 50 lots, and Sawgrass Bay Phase 2C consists of 40 for a total of 152 lots.  The subdivisions are located East of US Highway 27 off Sawgrass Bay Boulevard in Section 14, Township 24 South, Range 26 East. There is no fiscal impact.  Commission District 1

2016 annual transit development plan update

Commr. Parks stated he wanted to review Tab 7 regarding the 2016 Annual Transit Development Plan, specifically regarding page 12 and page 25 of the plan. He pointed out that on page 12 there was no mention of looking for additional revenue sources, such as advertising or sponsorships, listed under the goals. He opined that this could help even a small amount and should be an important objective. He stated that there was a paragraph on page 25 which listed many reasons as to why ride sharing services cannot be done, but he would like to see the County remain open to the possibility of utilizing those services.

Commr. Sullivan clarified that the action to approve the updated plan was time sensitive.

Mr. Heath responded that the update was slightly behind.  He asked whether Commissioner Parks would like a public discussion on the topics or if he just wanted language placed in the update.  He explained that both would be brought back before the Board in the department update and wondered if that would be enough or if a hold needed to be put on it.

Ms. Dorothy Keedy, Director of Community Services, explained that it was a minor update that has to be done each year, and it would be brought back to the Board in 2017. She stated that it could wait for approval until the next Board meeting to allow for changes or further discussion.

Mr. Heath did not feel like the discussion about ride sharing would be crucial at that time and stated that there would be a larger upcoming discussion.

Commr. Parks stated that he was fine with having a discussion on the ride sharing at a future date; however, he wanted the goals section on page 12 to include additional revenue sources, such as advertising.

Mr. Heath recommended that the plan be approved and sent as is and then have the Community Services Department bring back those two particular issues to the Board for additional discussion.

Commr. Sullivan clarified that the Board would approve it and then discuss it again prior to the next update being due.

Commr. Parks asked if the discussion would take place before the budget meetings.

Mr. Heath replied that he intended on having the discussion in late spring 2017, because the Community Services Department would be coming back before the Board with the budget presentation and goals.

Commr. Parks respectfully requested that they become agenda items.

Commr. Campione asked for clarification on the advertising that was being discussed, because to her recollection advertisements at bus stops or on buses were already in place.

Commr. Parks replied that he was referencing both.

Ms. Keedy stated that the contract for the bus and bus stop advertising recently expired, and there was not a new contract in place.

Commr. Breeden asked if there was trouble implementing a new contract.

Mr. Heath stated that there needed to be further discussion with the Board on which direction to go on the advertising.

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Breeden and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Tab 7 to adopt the 2016 Annual Transit Development Plan Update, with the understanding that there would be a general discussion regarding the transit system prior to the FY 2018 budget sessions specifically discussing additional goals and objectives for funding sources such as advertising and the possibility of ride sharing and implementing a pilot program.

public hearings: rezonings

rezoning consent agenda

Mr. Tim McClendon, Planning and Zoning Manager, Economic Growth Department, presented the advertisements for that day’s public hearings on the overhead monitor.  He related that there were four rezoning cases this month identified as Tabs 1 through 4 in their staff rezoning book, which he noted were unanimously recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Board at their meeting on November 30.  He relayed that staff’s recommendation was for the Board to approve the Consent Agenda as recommended by the Planning and Zoning Board. 

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

There being no one who wished to address the Board regarding the Rezoning Consent Agenda, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Rezoning Consent Agenda, Tabs 1 through 4, as follows:

Tab 1. Ordinance No. 2016-59

Rezoning Case #RZ-16-29-5

Nila A. Baker and Jason Baker Property

Request to rezone property from Mixed Home Residential (RM) to Agriculture (A) to undertake General Agricultural uses on the property.

 

Tab 2.  Ordinance No. 2016-60

Rezoning Case #RZ-16-28-5

Black Bear Reserve PUD Amendment

Request of establishment of new Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning district ordinance to revoke and replace PUD Ordinances #2005-39, #57-91 and #102-89 to include a new rear setback of 10-feet rather than 25-feet, as previously established.

 

Tab 3.  Ordinance No. 2016-61

Rezoning Case #RZ-16-30-4

Cople Property

Request to rezone 11.49 acres from Agriculture Residential (AR) to Agriculture (A) to increase permitted Agricultural Uses.

 

Tab 4.  Ordinance No. 2016-62

Rezoning Case #FLU-16-12-3

Cooper Property

Request to amend the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) on approximately 1.16+/- acres, located on Country Road 561 in the Tavares area from the Regional Office Future Land Use Category to the Regional Commercial Future Land Use Category, to allow vehicular sales to be conducted on the property.

 

public hearing – vacation petition no. 1230 – holifield

Mr. Jim Stivender, Public Works Director, explained that Vacation Petition No. 1230 was a request to vacate two platted lot line utility easements in the Greenbriar Subdivision located east of Eustis off of State Road 44.  He pointed out that infrastructure was already put in place, that they are side lot easements that do not affect other properties, and that the lot title had been cleared so it is now one piece of property. He stated that it was staff recommendation to vacate and requested approval from the Board.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

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

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Vacation Petition No. 1230 to vacate platted lot line utility easements in the Greenbriar Subdivision in the Mt. Dora-Eustis area.

PUBLIC HEARING – VACATION PETITION NO. 1229 – ward

Mr. Stivender explained that the request for Vacation Petition No. 1229 was for a Cross-Access Easement in the City of Leesburg, and a different easement would be put in its place if approved, which was documented separately. He stated that it was staff recommendation to vacate and requested approval from the Board.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Mr. Peter Dora, a resident of Leesburg, stated that he lives adjacent to the property and wanted to clarify where the eventual ingress and egress of the property would be.  He was concerned that an exit would be planned for the residential street and wondered if there were site plans available that would show where the exit was to be located.

Mr. Stivender replied that there was a separate access document located with the City of Leesburg that solved the access issue. He clarified that the requested action was to decide if the Cross-Access Easement served a public purpose.

Mr. Dora stated that his and the other residents’ concern is that the drive-through of the business would be exiting onto their residential street.

Mr. Stivender clarified that access was solved through a city site plan and was approved previously.

Mr. Fred Schneider, Engineer, Public Works, stated that this had been worked on for many months between the property owner, the County, and the City of Leesburg. He reviewed the plans that would be taking place and noted that the new easement would no longer be over where the building was because the building would be reconfigured. He clarified that the easement would be in the same location, centered in the parking lot, and would retain the same access as before.

Mr. Dora clarified that the access would be at the same place and would not exit on to Pringle Avenue but stay exiting onto Skinner Avenue.

There being no one else who wished to address the Board regarding this vacation petition, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Vacation Petition No. 1229 to vacate a Cross-Access Easement in the City of Leesburg.

departmental business

keep lake beautiful

Mr. Brian Sheahan, Director of Community Safety and Compliance, gave an overview on the Keep Lake Beautiful program and upcoming activities and noted it was the first complete year of the program.  He recapped that in April 2015 the Board approved the creation of Keep Lake Beautiful (KLB) to fill in the gaps between government services and volunteer organizations and to provide focus on areas that were not being served.  He explained that the KLB Advisory Committee is made up of elected officials, School Board members, civic organizations, citizen representatives, a local business representative, and a Board liaison. He stated that it was set up this way to ensure that it is all inclusive and touches every aspect of the community. He commented that the Community Litter Index benchmarks show how well the county is doing, where the problem areas are, and what progress is being made.  He pointed out that the index average was 1.6 for both 2015 and 2016; however, the 2016 index score included more sites, and there was improvement in the number of areas going from slightly littered to no litter.  He mentioned that there have been additional areas identified that really need attention, which  would be benchmarked for follow up. 

Mr. Sheahan reported that KLB achieved its Keep America Beautiful (KAB) Affilitate Accreditation, was recognized as a member in Good Standing for 2016, and won a 2016 NACO (National Association of Counties) Award for Volunteer Programs.  He reviewed the KLB Litter Application, which was developed completely in-house and featured in the international journal Esri ArcNews in spring 2016.  He showed the listing of the sponsors and partners that had played a large role in the program’s success. He pointed out that an important partnership had been formed with the Florida Department of Health as concern had grown for the Zika Virus, a virus spread by mosquitos, and a beneficial side effect of the KLB clean-up had been the removal of old tires, which is a known breeding source for the mosquitos carrying the virus. He presented letters of positive feedback for several community events and highlighted all of the activities that took place over the year. He reported that 18 events took place during the year; there were 38,000 pounds of litter removed; 13,000 pounds of hazardous waste were removed; 526 trees and 500 shrubs were planted; and there were over 1,250 hours of volunteer time, which was an estimated labor value of $28,000.  He played an audio advertisement for the Board and noted that the ad was funded by the Drive it Home Grant given through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT.)  He noted that the grant also funded the purchase of litter grabbers, printing of promotional material, purchase of bottle refilling stations for parks, and the payment of dues for KAB and KLB memberships.  He reviewed the community outreach events that took place such as the Wings and Wildflower Festival and the Florida Wildlife Festival.

Mr. Sheahan listed the upcoming activities planned for 2017, noting that there would be continued promotion of the Adopt a Road and Adopt a Lake programs, four Community Clean Up Events, attendance at festivals, coordination of public facility beautification projects, and implementation of a cooperative program with the Extension Service for training school facilities groundskeepers. He reviewed that a Special Event Coordinator would be hired to expand the program, and they would continue to build the volunteer base, work with the KLB Advisory Board to plan and conduct more events, continue to seek grant funding for supplies to benefit community projects and continue to seek corporate partners for events.

Commr. Campione thanked everyone for being involved and noted that it is a working committee with everyone contributing new ideas.  She stated that there are opportunities that present themselves to help improve areas when attending events, and she encouraged the Board to participate when the events come up. She commented that the recent lake cleanup was very rewarding and noted that several boaters thanked them for the work they were doing.  She mentioned that she hoped the outreach was making residents more aware of the situation and in particular noted partnering with convenience stores and gas stations to keep the areas around the businesses cleaned up.

Commr. Parks stated that he was very impressed with the volunteer hours and dollar amount figures that were presented.  He commented that he appreciated Commissioner Campione’s leadership and the staff’s help on the program.  He suggested getting in touch with local high school students to help with gaining volunteers, because high school seniors need volunteer hours for college applications.

Commr. Campione replied that Mr. Sheahan had gone to high school guidance counselors and worked with Mr. Mark Dodd, Chairman of the Lake County School Board, and he was able to give a presentation on the opportunities of volunteering for KLB.

Commr. Parks opined that was wonderful and that the community is strong, and he thanked everyone for their work.

Commr. Campione pointed out that the KLB program keeps to the goal of “Real Florida, Real Close” by keeping the areas clean for ecotourism.

Commr. Blake clarified that the dues paid to be a part of KAB and KLB came from the FDOT grant.

Mr. Sheahan stated that there were dues involved to be a member of the KAB but that they were paid through the grant and not through local tax funds. He noted that it also pays for travel to conferences as well as radio advertising.

Commr. Breeden thanked Mr. Sheahan and Commissioner Campione for their hard work. She asked if the cities were partnering with KLB when an event takes place there.

Mr. Sheahan replied that the City of Minneola and the City of Umatilla both partnered with KLB for the events that took place in their area, and overall each city that has been approached has been very receptive and positive.

Commr. Sullivan pointed out that the waste contractors have stepped in to be a large part of the process, and he thanked them. He commented that the community events are great because they allow the residents to get involved.

Commr. Campione noted that there is a great opportunity for organizations that want to do a project but maybe don’t have the funds to partner with KLB for support. She wondered if a strike team had been created in Public Works that could call out problem areas.

Mr. Sheahan responded that it had been put in place and was a good resource.

Mr. Heath stated that a request had been put in place with a contractor, and there is a process Mr. Sheahan follows that starts with contacting the appropriate department first to help with the issue and then contacting the contractor for assistance if that department is unable to help. 

INFRASTRUCTURE SALES TAX PRIORITIES

Mr. Steve Koontz, Assistant County Manager, presented to the Board the five-year funding plan for Infrastructure Sales Tax priorities. He recapped that Florida State Statute 212.055(2) authorizes a county to levy a discretionary sales surtax of up to one percent and specifies the approved uses for that funding.  He elaborated that this sales surtax is pursuant to an ordinance enacted by the Board and approved by the majority of the electors of the county voting in referendum.  He stated that the current authorization was under Lake County Ordinance 2001-123, which authorized the extension of the Infrastructure Sales Tax, the special election that took place November 6, 2001, and the 15-year term of the levy from January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2017. He noted that it was distributed evenly among the Lake County Board of County Commissioners (BCC), the School Board, and the municipalities. He pointed out that a citizen committee was created to monitor the expenditure of sales tax proceeds, 50 percent of which are to be used for transportation purposes and 50 percent for other purposes as allowed by Section 212.055(2) of the Florida State Statute.  He stated that the new authorization under Lake County Ordinance 2015-41, which will take place January 1, 2018, authorized the extension of the Infrastructure Sales Tax, placed the referendum on the November 3, 2015 ballot, and was approved by the voters as a 15-year term from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2032. He commented that the surtax will be evenly distributed again between the Lake County BCC, the School Board and the municipalities.  He said that it authorized the continuation of the citizen committee to monitor the sales tax proceeds and pointed out that the proceeds of the surtax cannot be pledged for any future bond issues without first holding a public hearing, adding that an additional item in the new ordinance was that Lake County has no designated funding allocations. He specified that based on the statute, the County can use the sales tax for law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances, and public safety equipment; parks, trails, recreation and libraries; roads, sidewalks, and transportation; water quality, utilities, and drainage improvements; and other public infrastructure needs.

Mr. Koontz related that the current authorized projects for FY 2017 in the other purposes section were the expansion and improvements at many of the parks and a debt service that is tied to the sales tax for the radio tower project, which is the last debt service payment on that project. He stated that another authorized purpose was the Capital Improvement Bonds debt service. He explained that the Board issued debt in 2007 for $80 million that was used for the courthouse, parking garage, and other projects in the downtown complex.  He added that the debt service was approximately $5.4 million, which was set based off of the refinancing that took place in 2016. He noted that the debt service extends to 2037 as it was a 30-year bond issue.  He pointed out that infrastructure sales tax funding can only be used during the period that it was initially authorized, which meant that after December 31, 2017 the sales tax funding could not be used to pay the debt service and will go back to being paid out of the General Fund. He explained that the infrastructure sales tax was used to help with the debt service during the years of the recession, as well as other purposes including the new Tax Collector Building, sheriff vehicles, the Judicial Center renovation, the Fruitland Park Athletic Fields Grant and reserves.  He presented a list of the Transportation projects for FY 2017 and noted that they are either in process or completed.

Mr. Koontz reviewed the new authorization priorities for the first five years of 2018-2022, noting that it was a rolling five-year plan and started the process. He recalled that in May 2015 there was a BCC regular meeting to discuss the reauthorization of the infrastructure sales tax, and the presentation included background, priorities, ballot language, revenue projections, and the potential utilization of revenue. He pointed out that the utilization of the revenue was divided into 30 percent for public safety, 30 percent for quality of life, 30 percent for public works, and10 percent for other infrastructure.  He stated that priorities within public safety uses were vehicle replacement for the sheriff’s office, ambulance and equipment replacement for Lake Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and fire apparatus, station renovations, repairs and replacement for Lake County Fire and Rescue (LCFR).  He related that the priorities for quality of life were expansions and completions of several parks, the Cagan Crossings Community Library, and Marion Baysinger Memorial Library.  He noted that the priorities within public works were road resurfacing, sidewalks, intersection improvements, water quality projects and vehicles and equipment.  He pointed out that priorities for other public infrastructure were building renovation and development, vehicles and fleet, telephone system modernization and fiber optic network expansion. He reported that some additional needs have been identified and mandated in the last year, including the required closure of the six-acre cell at the landfill, which is regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection, and the requirement for new ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible voting machines for the Supervisor of Elections. He reviewed several other projects that came up since the May 2015 meeting.

Mr. Koontz stated that the revenue projections for the first five years that were given to the Board in May 2015 were based on FY 2014 actuals and FY 2015 estimates; however, in December of 2016 the updated projections were based on FY 2015 actuals and FY 2016 estimates. He explained that in May of 2015 the revenue projections were shown using calendar years starting in January 2018 through December 2022, but in December 2016 the updated projections were shifted to the account for fiscal years and have used a three-percent growth factor from year to year, which is fairly conservative. He reviewed the May 2015 projection amounts for each area with a total estimated County funding of $74,300,000, and he presented the comparison of May 2015 and December 2016 estimates, which shows that the actual amount will be about $81 million as opposed to the original $74.3 million. He pointed out that staff tried to stay conservative because it is better to have some extra funding as opposed to being short.

Mr. Koontz went over the funding strategy that staff had put together, and he explained that the first quarter for the FY 2018 from October through December of 2017 must be divided based on the current authorization of 50 percent for transportation purposes and 50 percent for other purposes allowed by statute, which will be for debt service for the Capital Improvement Bonds.  He specified that he estimates that figure to be at 1.9 million, with the rest being absorbed through the General Fund, where it is pledged.  He elaborated that the remaining funding of the five-year plan will be under the new authorization beginning January 2018 through September 2022.  He noted that they will use the four funding categories that align with the Sales Tax Ordinance and that were discussed in May with the same priority projects, and additional funding is to be allocated to projects that have been identified as additional projects when feasible.  He presented a chart illustrating the five-year updated revenue projections.  He explained that the 5 Year Plan provides a framework for the Board to fund projects and priorities in one-year increments, noting that every August the Board will be able to reconcile what has been done and make any changes as needed in a public hearing forum.

Mr. Koontz specified that there was $21.2 million total for public safety uses, and he presented a chart breaking that funding into three categories of Lake County Fire Rescue, Lake Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the Sheriff’s Office.  He mentioned that vehicle replacement was mentioned as a priority for the Sheriff’s Office, and funding was allocated for that purpose at $1.5 million for the first year and $1.5 million for each year after that.  He added that Lake EMS funding of $2.5 million was to be used toward ambulance, equipment, and CAD replacement, although it was expected that there would be additional capital funding available through the Ambulance MSTU (Municipal Service Taxing Unit) fund.  He listed three fire stations that were identified as ones built in the 1970’s or 1980’s that needed to be replaced at a total cost estimate of $4.12 million, which were Station 39 in Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento, Station 71 in Bassville Park, and Station 76 in Yalaha, as well as four fire stations that needed expansions of the existing station using a total of $2 million, which were Station 111 in Bay Lake, Station 15 in Pine Lakes, Station 27 in Mount Dora, and Station 109 in the Lakeshore area.  He also gave a list of stations that were due to receive renovations and repairs using a total of $880,000 of the funding over the five-year period, including roof repairs, plumbing, exterior building improvements, septic systems, and bringing buildings up to building code standards.  He pointed out that this plan is expected to affect 18 of the 24 Lake County stations.  He added that the five-year plan also includes fire apparatus and vehicle replacement for vehicles ranging in age from 12 to 33 years old, including pumpers, squad trucks, brush trucks, and command vehicles.

Mr. Koontz went over the Quality of Life Five-Year Plan for 2018 through 2022 for Parks, Trails, Recreation and Libraries, showing graphs for the expected five-year funding plan for the construction, amenities, and/or expansion of the East Lake Community Park, North Lake Community Park, PEAR Park, Lake Idamere Park, Minneola Athletic Complex, South Lake Regional Park, Ferndale Preserve, Ellis Acres, and other community parks; renovation and rehabilitation of the South Lake/Hancock Trails and other trail properties; expansion of the Cagan Crossings Community Library and Marion Baysinger Memorial Library; and replacement of the Astor Library.  He noted that impact fees could also be used for the library projects.  He presented graphs and discussed funding in the five-year plan for various public works infrastructure projects such as resurfacing and sidewalk projects, information technology replacement of old and obsolete equipment, fleet vehicle replacement, capital building maintenance, design and construction of an Animal Services facility, and additional projects, including the aforementioned voting machines with ADA compliance, landfill closure, and purchase of a Tax Collector Building.  He summarized that the funding strategy was based on the priorities presented to the Board in May 2015, and staff had tried to keep those priorities consistent.  He pointed out that the current authorization ended December 31, 2017, and the proceeds from the first quarter of 2018, which is the last quarter of the current authorization, would be evenly divided among public works and debt service.  He elaborated that the proceeds of the new authorization would fund the remainder of the five-year plan from January 1, 2018 through September 30, 2022.  He listed the next steps, which would be the budget process between March and June of 2017, the first public hearing for the new authorization in August 2017, and the public hearings to adopt the budget in September.

Mr. Heath commented that the purpose of the presentation was to give the Board a framework for ideas that would be discussed at the retreat on January 17, 2017, and he cautioned the Board that although this funding plan could be changed, anything that is added would necessitate something being taken out of the plan.  He explained that the Board approves a list of sales tax projects every year as part of the budget, and there was constant dialogue during the year with the community about the funding and timeframe of specific projects.  He opined that the plan was the result of balancing community and organizational needs such as maintenance costs for telephones and heavy equipment.

Commr. Campione clarified that 2019 would be the first year that they would not use sales tax for debt service, noting that the funding that had been taken out of sales tax to help absorb some of the debt service had fluctuated over the last five years.

Mr. Koontz responded that the funding of the debt service out of the sales tax proceeds started off at about $2 million and went to a high of $4.5 million, with $3.1 million being used this year for that purpose and $1.9 expected to be used next year.

Commr. Campione suggested that they start using less money for that purpose in the future to prepare for the time when it could no longer be used for debt service.

Mr. Heath pointed out that there would still be a $1.2 million reduction from this year to next year.

Commr. Sullivan clarified that it would affect the General Fund.

Commr. Campione opined that the performance contracting sounded very promising in light of the fact that they would have other shifting priorities to find a good source to take care of some of the capital needs and free up some funding for other projects, such as the Animal Shelter, which is in dire need of facility improvements.

Commr. Parks asked whether there was any consideration of the feasibility of TDT (Tourist Development Tax) funding being used for some of the trail projects.

Mr. Heath responded that they were still looking at that and recapped that at the last meeting it was mentioned that staff had done an RFP to gauge interest in using TDT funding, which garnered underwhelming interest.  However, he opined that the Coast-to-Coast Trail would be able to be used for tourism purposes and “putting heads in beds.”

Mr. Koontz added that the rehabilitation of the trails they were currently looking at would probably not be eligible for TDT funding, but they would need to look at development of new trails and connections to complete the Coast-to-Coast Trail in order to be able to use that funding.

Commr. Parks suggested that they look at municipalities such as Clermont for help in funding trail needs as well.

Commr. Campione added that the Central Florida Loop could also affect the North Lake trails.  She expressed concern about a caveat that could be added to the purchase of the lease from the Florida Central Railroad.

Mr. Heath replied that County staff and Mr. T. J. Fish, Executive Director of the Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), had met with the City Manager of Mount Dora, who indicated that she would look at that issue, although she could not make a quick decision about that.  He added that the County Attorney’s Office has rendered an opinion about not being able to use sales tax to buy the railroad out, but he has been looking into having FDOT help them with that purchase.

Commr. Parks asked whether some projects will take longer to complete than others.

Mr. Heath answered that cash flow and project development guided this exercise, and he listed some of the aspects of development associated with some of the projects, including finding and purchasing property and design of the project.

Commr. Campione elaborated that the timing and funding of the projects could be adjusted at the annual hearings if that was necessary to get something accomplished sooner.

Mr. Heath added that this would be a fluid process, since there were many things currently happening that could change those priorities, including an EMS study, the consultant’s recommendation regarding Animal Services, and performance contracting.

Commr. Parks clarified that staff was conservatively projecting a three-percent increase of sales revenues on a yearly basis, but he asked what they could do if the actual revenue that came in was higher than projected.

Mr. Heath cautioned the Board about overestimating and over-projecting the revenue, and he assured them that staff would be monitoring that so that they could reconcile the actuals with the projected numbers.

Commr. Sullivan commented that they have learned from past experiences that some costs increase as well as revenues during good economic times.

recess and reassembly

The Chairman announced at 11:07 a.m. that there would be a fifteen-minute recess.

ordinance regarding payment and use of impact fees

Mr. Heath related that this is a request for approval to advertise an ordinance amending Section 22-8 and Section 22-11 of the Lake County Code.  He explained that under the existing County Code, a developer can prepay impact fees at the existing rate to ensure certainty of the amount to be paid for up to one year, and the County has interlocal agreements with all of the cities to do that.  However, he noted that there was currently a dispute between Mr. Jeffrey Cagan and the City of Tavares regarding the city impact fees for the Atwater Apartments in Tavares.  He stated that Mr. Cagan paid his prepaid impact fees for the Atwater Apartment project and then continued to go through the process; however, this dispute resulted in Mr. Cagan not picking up his building permit and the expiration of his prepaid certificate, resulting in being subject to the existing rate, which was a huge impact for a project of this size.  He elaborated that the intent of the prepaid impact fees was to enable developers to fix their costs and proceed in good faith.  He referred to a letter from Mr. John Drury, Manager for the City of Tavares, stating that it is indisputable that Mr. Cagan was going through the process and would have gotten his building permit had this issue with the city fees not transpired.  He further explained that the code change request would give the County Manager authority to reinstate the amount of the prepaid impact fees totaling less than $25,000 in situations where those fees expire through no fault of the applicant, whereas the County Commission could reinstate those fees over $25,000.  He reported that this ordinance will also provide two additional ways for a developer to defer impact fees from a building permit to a Certificate of Occupancy, which were to record a lien against the property to ensure payment or to require a letter of credit from the developer allowing the County to recoup the fee from the bank in the event of a default.  He recapped that if an applicant wants to defer their impact fees from the building permit to Certificate of Occupancy under the existing code, he could have his contractor sign an affidavit giving the County authority to suspend his license until the fees are paid.  However, in situations like this where the impact fees owed would be $1.5 million, the amount was too large for most contractors to guarantee and posed little security for the County.  He requested that the Board approve the advertisement for the above-mentioned code change.

Commr. Campione clarified that this ordinance would require the developers who prepaid the fees to demonstrate that it was not their fault that they were not able to get their permit issued within that time period.  She opined that this was a good solution to deal with those types of inequities when and if they arise.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved to advertise an ordinance amending Section 22-8, Lake County Code, entitled Payment and Use of Impact Fees and Section 22-11, Lake County Code, entitled Prepayment of Impact Fees. The fiscal impact is unable to be determined at this time.

presentation – cr437 realignment and multi-modal corridor

Mr. Fred Schneider, County Engineer, Public Works, stated that this presentation would give the Board an update on the CR 437 Realignment Project and Multi-Modal Corridor Study in Sorrento, and he noted that this would not require any action from the Board. 

Mr. Don Griffey, Griffey Engineering, a consultant who was hired by the County to manage and lead the project, listed who was on the project team, including his firm, the Lake County Departments of Public Works and Community Services, and a group of local consultants including Amanda Wettstein, a Public and Government Relations Consultant who was handling public relations for the project; Traffic Engineering Data Solutions, traffic data collection; Hoke Design, the multi-modal consultant; Modica & Associates for environmental work; Booth, Ern, Straughan & Hiott, surveyor; and Central Testing Laboratory, the geo-consultant for the project.  He displayed a map on the overhead monitor of the project corridor, which he noted was almost five-miles long starting on the south end of Adair Avenue going north to SR 46 and to CR 437 and then north to SR 44.  He commented that there were some external factors in the area that were affecting the study, which were the Wekiva Parkway construction, the upcoming transfer of SR 46 to Lake County, the work being done on the Wekiva Trail, and the Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) in the Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento area.  He displayed a map which also showed the location of the project in relation to the Wekiva Parkway and the changes that were happening in the community.  He recapped that they went through a process working with the CRA Advisory Committee last year to develop a concept plan for what they would like to see done with SR 46 after FDOT turns it over to Lake County, and he displayed a slide illustrating those recommended changes within their study area, pointing out that they discovered that the eastern CR 437 intersection had been proposed with a roundabout in the concept plan.  He noted, however, that when they put the realignment in and looked at the future traffic numbers, they realized that a roundabout would not work and was not a good option at that intersection.

Mr. Griffey presented a map of a portion of the Wekiva Trail with some of the segments identified, which showed that the Wekiva Trail runs through their project area as well, and he mentioned that the County was currently advertising for the design consultants for Segment 2 of the Wekiva Trail, a part of which runs along their project corridor.  He displayed an aerial view of the boundary of the Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento Community Redevelopment Area showing that their project goes through the middle of it.  He opined that there was a very active community in that area which was excited about the changes going on in that community and was providing them with good input on this project, and one of their goals and objectives was to identify and develop transportation plans.  He listed the public input meetings they have had regarding this project, including the introductory meetings in July, where they received a lot of great input which was useful in developing their alignment alternatives, and the community meetings in November to get input on the proposed alignments.  He listed some of the concerns and desires he has heard from the community, including concern about the roundabout, a desire for connectivity with the Wekiva Trail, a request for sidewalks from the school to the Publix store on SR 44, enhancement of the business district, desire to keep the realignment close to Sorrento Avenue, maintenance of the beauty and quality of the community, and a desire for a trail-oriented community similar to Winter Garden.

Mr. Griffey reported that the project includes three components, which were to evaluate the multi-modal uses in the area and any improvements to that system, determine the best route for the realignment of CR 437, and identify short-term improvements that would be possible for a relatively low cost.  He pointed out that there were accommodations built for cyclists and pedestrians near the new Publix store in the area near CR 437, but connections are needed to extend that further, since there was a definite need to accommodate pedestrians throughout the area and specifically on CR 437.  He showed illustrations of a piece of sidewalk near Sorrento Elementary School, noting that was the first part of the Wekiva Trail that has been constructed.  He opined that East Lake Community Park would be a good place for a trailhead as well as for a Park & Ride commuter lot rather than for the parking lot to sit idle on weekdays during commuting hours.  He pointed out that they would see growth as the community changes and expands in that area, and there was potential for extending the transit route out there to accommodate the population and a greater need for those services.  He reviewed the realignment section, noting that they were looking at using a 100-foot right of way, as well as green space with landscaped opportunities as requested by the CRA Advisory Committee.  He also pointed out that there would be a multi-use trail on the north side of the road, which would provide a loop to run on 437 between Wolf Branch and Sorrento Avenue, along the realignment, and back to Sorrento Avenue, which would provide a good opportunity for businesses to attract customers and encourage the trail-based community that was requested by the residents.  He presented some of the realignment alternatives, including a no-build option which would result in those roads having an unacceptable level of service by 2040, Alternative 1 with improved intersections and a trail which favored the through traffic, and Alternative 2 containing roundabouts and right-turn bypass lanes that would handle the traffic, provide a good level of service, and better accommodate what the community requested.  He listed the next steps in the study, which were finalizing the environmental assessment, stormwater and geotechnical evaluation of the alternatives, looking at the right of way needs and property impacts, cost analysis of the alternatives, development of a multi-modal and streetscape plan for the study area, conducting small group meetings, identification of short-term improvement options, and continuation of their public involvement.

Mr. Schneider went over the project funding estimates, noting that there was an ongoing contract for the corridor study with Griffey Engineering in the amount of $197,700.  He reported that there were funds in the adopted five-year work program and the impact fee program for the realignment section of CR 437 in the amount of $500,000 for design of the realignment, $700,000 for right of way, and about $435,000 for construction.  However, he noted that there was additional funding needed for construction of the realignment and other improvements along Sorrento Avenue of about $3 million, but there was both a state and federal  legislative request in order to fill that gap.  He added that funding was also being requested through the Lake-Sumter MPO on the local priority projects list, and they will have more refined cost estimates after the study process on the realignment and the other segments of CR 437 north and south of the realignment, including sidewalks, for the entire length of the project.  He recapped that they have already had some community meetings in July and November, and he related that the next scheduled public meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 10 with the CRA Advisory Committee, with a community meeting tentatively scheduled for January 26.  He reported that they would come back to the Board in March for a public hearing and request the Board’s approval of a recommendation at that time.  He displayed the project’s website, which was www.LAKECR437.com.

Commr. Sullivan expressed concern about traffic around the Sorrento Elementary School and the East Lake Community Park and asked whether that was taken into consideration during the planning process.

Mr. Schneider responded that they converted the results of their study into more of a realignment and multi-modal corridor study taking into consideration the needs and desires of the community and the interaction of pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicle traffic.  He stated that he believed the two interchanges on either side would intercept quite a bit of the traffic, but they would manage the north-south traffic to keep it at a lower speed in order to fit in with the community, taking into account the pedestrians, bicycles, and the trail.  He elaborated that they are looking at putting in wide sidewalks and paved shoulders up to SR 44 north from the intersection of Sorrento Avenue intersecting with the Wekiva Trail as well as from Sorrento Avenue south to Oak Lane where there is a projected future road connecting at Round Lake.  He summarized that they are trying their best to incorporate pedestrian and bicycle-friendly aspects into the project.

Commr. Breeden asked if they had looked at levels of service at the intersection of Wolf Branch and Wallick Roads.

Mr. Griffey assured her that it was included in their traffic analysis, but they mostly focused on the realignment portion.  He elaborated that currently that intersection was working at a good level of service.

Commr. Breeden asked whether there was anything that would improve the levels of service at Hunter Avenue and CR 437, since it was rated at a “C” level.

Mr. Griffey responded that they had recommended putting in a separate lane for every movement and a signal at that location.  He further explained that the County has adopted level of service “D “or better as the acceptable standard.

Commr. Sullivan mentioned that the streetscape program using FDOT funding could possibly be an opportunity to make further improvements and to be combined with this project.

reports – county manager

city of fruitland park fire service

Mr. Heath recapped that the County negotiated an agreement with the City of Fruitland Park in August and September for the city to opt into the County’s fire system and to be subject to their fire assessment, which was approved by both the City of Fruitland Park and the Board and then subsequently rescinded by both parties.  He related that Fruitland Park has created an advisory board to vet the issue of fire service, and the city requested that Lake County attend a meeting on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 to discuss this issue.  He informed the Board that he has arranged for Mr. Koontz to attend that meeting in order to educate them on the County’s fire assessment and for Chief John Jolliff to speak about the operational aspect of that service.  He commented that he believed Fruitland Park’s participation as part of an integrated County system would strengthen their system.  He related that the County would be willing to enter into an automatic aid agreement with the City similar to what they have with some of the other cities if the City chose to create their own fire department; however, the County would not be interested in negotiating automatic aid if Fruitland Park chose to retain the status quo with the use of volunteers, but the County would continue to honor the mutual aid agreement they currently have with them in that case.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER parks –DISTRICT 2

fire committee

Commr. Parks requested to have a discussion regarding implementing a fire advisory committee for Lake County in the future.

Mr. Heath responded that Mr. Koontz would make a presentation at the next meeting on the budget outlook and millages which would give an update on the fire budget, and they will have a closed session on that day regarding the bargaining unit.  He elaborated that two weeks after that meeting, the Board will hear a presentation by Tindale Oliver on the fire assessment and the vacant land alternative that was previously discussed, and in the near future they would also hear the results of a study about EMS and fire services.  He recommended that the Board hear those presentations before they create a committee, since a fire advisory board might be a good platform to vet some of those issues after being given a time period in which to work, and to wait until at least the first meeting in February before deciding what to do.

Commr. Campione asked whether there was a draft plan that had been done in the past.

Mr. Heath responded that it was determined that the cost of that initial long-range plan would exceed $70 million, so they had prepared a two-phase plan based on the availability of SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grants.

Commr. Campione suggested that they formalize a 5-, 10-, and 15-year plan where they create a blueprint based on what they anticipate the needs to be in the future by looking at where the growth is projected and where they have deficiencies and realistically try to plan for those deficiencies over time.

Mr. Heath responded that he believed that was a great suggestion, but he recommended having an objective entity to do the study and then have the committee vet those findings rather than having the individuals on the committee come up with recommendations on their own.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER breeden –DISTRICT 3

florida national cemetery quarterly memorial service

Commr. Breeden stated that on Wednesday December 14, 2016 she had the opportunity to attend the quarterly memorial service at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. She commented that Pastor Felix Ramirez officiated, and it was a moving ceremony that included the presentation of the flag to the family of a deceased veteran.

REPORTS – COMMISsIONER campione – DISTRICT 4

keep lake beautiful event

Commr. Campione relayed that she attended a Keep Lake Beautiful event to help clean up Lake Eustis and noted that it was a successful event that felt very satisfying. She encouraged the other commissioners to attend one of the upcoming Keep Lake Beautiful events.

reports – commissioner blake -  district 5

staff tours

Commr. Blake reported that he had been on orientation tours during the previous two weeks, including a tour of the landfill with Mr. Stivender and a tour of the larger parks in the county with Mr. Jeff Cole, Public Resources Director, and Mr. Bobby Bonilla, Parks and Trails Manager.

reports – commissioner sullivan – chairman and district 1

upcoming retreat

Commr Sullivan requested that the commissioners send their priorities and discussion items for the Board Retreat to Mr. Heath no later than January 10, 2017.

commission liaison form

Commr. Sullivan reminded the commissioners to turn in their forms for Commission Liaison positions to him as soon as possible.

lake LEGISLATIVE days

Commr. Sullivan encouraged the Board to attend and participate in the Lake Legislative Days in February 2017.

legislative priorities

Commr. Sullivan mentioned that he spoke to their federal lobbyist.  He noted that he plans to take a trip to Washington D.C. in March 2017 to ensure that the County’s priorities are kept in mind, and he hoped to visit with some agencies there to promote some of those priorities and funding mechanisms.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 12:11 p.m.

 

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TIMOTHY I. SULLIVAN, chairman

 

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

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NEIL KELLY, CLERK