A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

AUGUST 20, 2002

            The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 20, 2002, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Robert A. Pool, Chairman; Welton G. Cadwell, Vice Chairman; Jennifer Hill; Catherine C. Hanson; and Debbie Stivender. Others present were: Sanford A. “Sandy” Minkoff, County Attorney; William “Bill” Neron, County Manager; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, Board of County Commissioner’s Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Sandra Carter, Deputy Clerk.

            INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

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

            AGENDA UPDATE

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that there was an Addendum No. 1 to the Agenda, containing a request from Budget and Administrative Services - Budget, as well as a couple of items under Other Business, and an item under Reports. He stated that Tab 28, under the County Manager’s Departmental Business, a request from Community Services for approval to hold a discussion on the proposals to transfer Cooper Memorial Library to County operations; accept the Leesburg Public Library as a Member Library of the Lake County Library System; the fiscal ramifications of the two projects; and direction to staff on how to proceed, needed to be pulled from the Agenda, due to the fact that it was addressed at the Worksession that was held on Monday, August 19, 2002, and staff was given direction regarding the matter at that time.

            Commr. Stivender asked that Tab 7, under the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, a request from Budget and Administrative Services - Procurement Services for approval and authorization to award RFP No. 02-113, for the Survey of Scrub Jays for Lake County, subject to County Attorney approval, to LPG Environmental & Permitting Services, Inc.; as well as Tab 13, a request from Public Safety for approval of an Agreement between the City of Leesburg and the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, for the sale of Fire Station 83, located at 3714 Jim Rogers Industrial Park Road, Okahumpka, in “as is” condition, for $75,000.00, be pulled for discussion.

            Commr. Hanson asked that Tab 2, Item No. 1, under the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, a request from Budget and Administrative Services - Budget for approval of a budget transfer from the Mosquito Management Fund, Reserve for Operations, to Public Works, Operating Supplies, in the amount of $20,000.00, be pulled for discussion, as well.

            Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that he would like to add to the Agenda a discussion, under his Reports, regarding repairs to some non-county maintained roads.

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

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that the County Attorney, Mr. Sandy Minkoff, advised him that, if they wished to move the Worksession scheduled to be held at 1:30 p.m. this date in the Training Room up to an earlier time on the Agenda, it should be taken care of at this time.

            On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved to move said item up on the Agenda to 11:00 a.m., to be held in the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting Room, rather than in the Training Room.

            CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

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

            List of Warrants

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid, prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136 of the Florida Statutes, which shall be incorporated into the Minutes as attached Exhibit A and filed in the Board Support Division of the Clerk's Office.

 

            Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, for Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2001, from the City of Umatilla, Florida.

 

            Operational Audit of the Florida Community College System Student Fees and Fines

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Report No. 03-010, an Operational Audit of the Florida Community College System Student Fees and Fines, for the Period January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001, and Selected Transactions through March 31, 2002, prepared by the Auditor General, State of Florida.

 

            Minutes of Deer Island Community Development District’s Board of Supervisor’s

            Meetings

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of copies of Minutes of the Deer Island Community Development District’s Board of Supervisor’s Meetings held on April 19, April 30, May 24, and June 5, 2002.

 

 


            Annual Financial Report from the Deer Island Community Development District

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Annual Financial Report from the Deer Island Community Development District, for units of Local Government, for the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2001; with a copy of the Deer Island Community Development District’s Audited Financial Statements for the same period.

 

            St. Johns River Water Management District’s Tentative Budget Submission for Fiscal

            Year 2002-2003

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of St. Johns River Water Management District’s Tentative Budget Submission for Fiscal Year 2002-2003, pursuant to Section 373.536, Florida Statutes.

 

            Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Tentative Budget Submission for Fiscal

            Year 2002-2003

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Tentative Budget Submission for Fiscal Year 2002-2003, as mandated by Section 373.536(5)(a), Florida Statutes.

 

            Ordinances from the Town of Lady Lake

 

            Request to acknowledge receipt of Ordinances from the Town of Lady Lake. Passed, ordained, and approved in Regular Session of the Town Commission of the Town of Lady Lake, Florida, the 1st day of July, 2002, as follows:

 

            Ordinance No. 2002-05 - Voluntary Annexation - Land Owned by Elijah Bailey Jr.

            Ordinance No. 2002-06 - Amending Ordinance No. 81-8-(83) - Comprehensive Plan

            Ordinance No. 2002-07 - Redesignating Zoning Classification

 

            COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

 

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that she had asked that this request be pulled for discussion, because she wanted the Board and the citizens of the County to be updated on the West Nile Virus and exactly what the County is doing, with regard to it.

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board stating that the County has twelve trucks that are running seven days per week spraying for mosquitos in the County and they are in the process of fabricating two additional trucks, so there will soon be fourteen trucks spraying for the mosquitos. He stated that there are monitors all over the County identifying the types of mosquitos on a regular basis. He stated that the County sprays those areas that have the types of mosquitos and the quantities that it feels is necessary to eradicate, or minimize. He stated that the Lake County Health Department coordinates with the County’s Mosquito Control Department regularly and noted that, every time a question comes into the State on a bird, horse, human being, etc., it is categorized by every county in the State and the County’s staff scrolls it daily, to see what the status is.

            Commr. Stivender informed the Board that she asked that Tab 7 be pulled for discussion, because she wanted to let the Board know that the Survey of Scrub Jays was a grant that the County received, however, noted that the County fell approximately $6,000.00 under, in their negotiations with LPG, so the study of the scrub jay habitat will start within the next month. She stated that Mr. Adams, with LPG, will be looking for volunteers and organizations that know about scrub jays, to help find and locate their nests within the County. She stated that she had asked that Tab 13 be pulled, for discussion, as well, because she was concerned about where the money from the sale of the Okahumpka Fire Station would go. She stated that a comment was made that the money would go back into the General Fund and she does not feel that is where it should go. She stated that she feels it should go back into the Fire Safety fund.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that said monies would go back into the Fire Safety fund.

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

            Budget and Administrative Services - Budget

 

            Request for approval of the following:

 

            Budget transfer from the Mosquito Management Fund, Reserve for Operations, to Public Works, Operating Supplies, in the amount of $20,000.00. Mosquito Management Fund transfer of $20,000.00 is requested. Mosquito spraying was done seven days per week through the end of the season (December 2001), because of the West Nile Medical Alert issued by the State, requiring the use of more pesticide than during a normal spray season. It is necessary to purchase more pesticide and to increase the purchase order.

 

            Budget transfer from the Sales Tax Capital Projects Fund, Special Reserve, to Public Works, Land, in the amount of $286,000.00. Sales Tax Capital Projects Fund transfer of $286,000.00 is requested. The Board of County Commissioners approved the purchase of two parcels of land near the Umatilla Airport (Abrahamson and Sagis properties) on May 7, 2002. The $286,000.00 includes the purchase of the land, closing costs, and attorney’s fees.

 

            Resolution No. 2002-113, amending the General Fund, in order to receive unanticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2001/2002, in the amount of $1,250.00, deposited into Donations; provide appropriations for disbursement, for Promotional Activities for the Ninth Annual Volunteer Recognition and Reception; and the volunteer component of the Born to Read Program expenses.

 

            Budget and Administrative Services - Procurement Services

 

            Request for approval and authorization to award RFP No. 02-083, encumber funds, and authorize a contract, subject to County Attorney approval, to Checkpoint Systems, Inc., in the amount of $30,000.00, for the County’s portion of the security and collection management services.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to encumber funds and authorize a Purchase Order to Collins & Aikman Floorcoverings, Inc., in the amount of $123,107.20, for the purchase and installation of carpet tiles for the 1st through 4th floors of the Sheriff’s Administration Building.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to purchase ArcView software upgrade and licenses for the existing ArcView software utilized by the Public Works Division, in the amount of $30,999.63, from Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI).

 

            Request for approval and authorization to award RFP No. 02-122, encumber funds, and authorize a contract, subject to County Attorney approval, to Devo Seereeram, PH.D., P.E., in the amount of $32,240.00, for geotechnical engineering and construction inspection services, with the option to negotiate the same services, including geotechnical borings and analyses, for CR 561, north of Astatula, at a later date.

            Request for approval and authorization to award RFP 02-113, for Survey of Scrub Jays for Lake County, subject to County Attorney approval, to LPG Environmental and Permitting Services, Inc.

 

            Community Services

 

            Request for approval of Proclamation No. 2002-114, recognizing the week of September 15 through 21, 2002, as “Civic Participation Week” in Lake County.

 

            Request for approval and signature authorization on Host Agency Agreement between Green Thumb Experience Works! and Lake County Board of County Commissioners (as host agency).

 

            Economic Development and Tourism

 

            Request from Economic Development and Tourism for approval of the Cultural Affairs Council Annual Report.

 

            Growth Management

 

            Request for approval of Special Masters Settlement Agreement for Christyne B. Hamilton, Trustee, vs. Lake County.

 

            Request for approval of Correction Agreement for Robert and Diane Hendrick vs. Lake County. 

 

            Public Safety

 

            Request for approval of Agreement between the City of Leesburg and Lake County Board of County Commissioners, for the sale of Fire Station 83, located at 3714 Jim Rogers Industrial Park Road, Okahumpka, 34762, in “as is” condition, for $75,000.00. The County will be required to provide title insurance at approximately $1,000.00. The sum of $1,000.00 will be placed in escrow to McLin & Burnsed, P.A. Trust Account.

 

            Request for approval to advertise an Ordinance of the Board of County Commissioners of Lake County, Florida, creating Article III, Chapter 10.5, of the Lake County Code, entitled Open Burning Regulations.

 

            Request for approval of renewal of lease agreement for the Guardian Ad Litem office, in Tavares, in the amount of $715.49 per month.

 

            Request for approval of Resolution No. 2002-115, supporting the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) application to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), for “Surface Transportation Security and Reliability Information System Model Deployment.”

 

            Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Johns Lake Estates, Phase 3, all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Johns Lake Estates, Phase 3 plat; a Developer’s Agreement, for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Maronda Homes, Inc., subdivision, consisting of 64 lots - Commission District 2.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Mission Park, Phase 1, all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Mission Park, Phase 1 plat; a Developer’s Agreement, for Construction of Improvements, between Lake County and Mission Park, LLLP; a Bond, for Performance, in the amount of $592,959.47; and a Conservation Easement Deed from Mission Park, LLLP.

 

            Request for approval and execution of the Lease Agreement between Lake County and the Lake Agriculture and Youth Fair Association, for FY 2002/03, in the amount of $1.00.

 

            Request for approval and authorization for the Chairman to execute Satisfaction of Assessments Liens for six road assessments.

 

            Request for approval and authorization for the Chairman to sign the Purchase Agreement Amendment for Pine Forest Park, in the amount of $25,000.00.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Emerald Greens, Phase III; accept all areas dedicated to the public, as shown on the Emerald Greens Phase III plat; accept a cashier’s check, in the amount of $28,000.00, for the completion of landscaping improvements; execute a Developer’s Agreement, for Construction of Improvements, between Lake County and Godfrey Custom Homes, Inc.; accept a cashier’s check, in the amount of $4,800.00, for Maintenance; execute a Developer’s Agreement, for Maintenance of Improvements, between Lake County and Godfrey Custom Homes, Inc.; and execute Resolution No. 2002-116, accepting Fairhaven Court (CR 5235D) into the County Road Maintenance System. Subdivision consists of 19 lots - Commission District 1.

 

            Request for approval and authorization to execute a Change Order, not to exceed $26,600.00, to Brian Cumming & Associates, Inc., for engineering drawings, to extend the chilled water piping to Building G, Building H, and the Law Library; authorization to execute a Change Order, not to exceed $126,000.00, to Lake Mechanical Contractors, to extend the water lines to said buildings; approval of Capital Substitution No. 2002-58C, in the amount of $152,600.00, for expansion of scope of services; and approval to grant Lake Mechanical 120 days to complete expanded scope of services, calculated from issuance of Notice to Proceed.

 

            Request for approval of Resolution No. 2002-117, advertising Vacation Petition No. 987, by William and Pear Connors, to vacate an easement in the Plat of Royal Highlands, Phase 1, Lot 74, in Section 13, Township 21, Range 24, in the Leesburg area - Commission District 3.

 

            Request for approval of Resolution No. 2002-118, advertising Vacation Petition No. 988, by Steve Richey, P.A., for Shirley Dunne, to vacate an easement in the Plat of Pennbrooke, Phase 1H, in Section 19, Township 19S, Range 24E, in the Fruitland Park area - Commission District 1.

 

            Request for approval of Resolution No. 2002-119, advertising Vacation Petition No. 989, by Julie Faye Rogers Realty, for Dell M. Ellis, to vacate easements located in Section 19, Township 23S, Range 25E, in the area south of Groveland - Commission District 2.

 

            ADDENDUM NO. 1

 

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

 

            Budget and Administrative Services - Budget

 

            Request for approval of budget transfer from Sales Tax Capital Project Fund, Special Reserve, to Public Works, Buildings, in the amount of $269,216.00. Sales Tax Capital Projects Fund transfer of $269,216.00 is requested to pay for County building re-roofing projects. The buildings include: Mechanical Building beside Administration Building - $15,985.00; Administration Building roof, skylights, and engineering - $140,140.00; Mayo and Ashford buildings at the Fairgrounds - $33,326.00; Building G - $24,090.00; American Legion building - $23,000.00; the Fairgrounds office - $24,900.00; and the McTureous home - $7,775.00. Funds available in the Infrastructure Sales Tax Special Reserve.

 

            PRESENTATION

            PROCLAMATION FOR FIRE FIGHTERS APPRECIATION WEEK

            The Chairman presented a Proclamation for Fire Fighters Appreciation Week to Noah Hollis, Lake County Fire Fighter and MDA Coordinator.

            CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

            Mr. Michael Ross, a member of the Mt. Dora Lions Club, addressed the Board and thanked them, as well as the citizens of Lake County, for helping the Lions Club with their annual Amish Cheese Sale, noting that this will be their sixth year for the sale and they anticipate it to be their biggest year yet. He stated that they hold the sale each October, November, and December at the Craft Festival that is held in Mt. Dora. He stated that the money they raise from the sale goes toward projects that the Lions Club supports, such as The Lions Camp, in Lake Wales, Florida; the Conklin Center, in Daytona Beach, for multiple handicapped people; and foster care in Lake, Marion, Sumter, Citrus, and Hernando counties, where they purchase backpacks for their foster care school children, containing supplies that they will need for school. He stated that a program was begun last October called Used Suitcases for Foster Care, where used suitcases are collected and given to foster children in Florida, at which time he noted that there are 38,000 children in foster care in the State of Florida. He stated that, during the Craft Festival, which he alluded to earlier, he will be holding a Suitcase Blitz and was present at this meeting to ask the Board for their moral support, noting that, if they feel the suitcase project is a good one, he would like to have a letter from them stating that they support the project, so that, when he begins his campaign, he can show the television and radio stations that the Board is behind the project, as well as the City of Mt. Dora, the Mt. Dora Police Department, and the Craft Festival. He stated that the suitcases are collected year round at various locations, however, noted that a collection site will be set up in Mt. Dora, during the Craft Festival, to be held October 26-27, 2002.

            Mr. Roy Hunter, President, Northeast Lake Chamber of Commerce, addressed the Board stating that, when the sales tax issue came before the Board during a recent meeting, his Chamber was neutral and they would now like to express their feelings about sales tax monies being used for solid waste and the incinerator. He stated that they feel it is a great idea and a perfect solution to the problem, because it would be fair to everybody in the County.

            Mr. Hunter brought to the Board’s attention some non-county maintained roads that are located in northeast Lake County that are in terrible shape and need to be repaired, at which time he gave two examples of women that live on such roads, one with a high risk pregnancy, and the other one with Lupus, needing medical care on a daily basis. He stated that these were just two examples of people who really need help with their roads. He thanked Sheriff Knupp for his help, noting that he has been using his grader to have some of the roads in the area graded.

            Mr. Hunter invited everyone to attend a Voter Forum, to be held on Saturday, August 24, 2002, at Spring Creek Elementary School. He stated that the public needs to come out and meet the candidates.

 


            COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

            GROWTH MANAGEMENT - DISCUSSION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

            POLICIES AND RESIDENTIAL REZONING AND DEVELOPMENT IN CITY OF

            CLERMONT

            Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, addressed the Board stating that Mr. Steve Richey, Attorney, had just informed her that he was withdrawing a request for a discussion of Comprehensive Plan Policies and the residential rezoning and subsequent development of 260 home sites (Bent Tree Subdivision) in the City of Clermont’s service area.

            PUBLIC WORKS - FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FIVE YEAR

            WORK PROGRAM FOR FY 2003/2004 THROUGH 2007/2008

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, addressed the Board and explained this request, stating that it was a request from Public Works for approval of the recommended prioritization of projects for Lake County, from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Five-Year Work Program for Fiscal Years 2003/2004 through 2007/2008. He reviewed a handout (booklet), containing information, maps, and charts pertaining to said program, which had been provided to the Board, noting that it is something that is brought before the Board for approval each year.

            Commr. Hanson stated that several years ago the County requested the State to install sidewalks in the Sorrento/Mt. Plymouth area, however, was informed that there was not enough rights-of-way to have them installed. She stated that she still feels it is a high priority item, noting that many accidents occur in that area during the year, because there are quite a few pedestrians who walk along SR 46, and that the matter should be looked into again.

            Mr. Stivender stated that he feels the matter will come into play next year, or in the near future, as part of an FDOT study that is to be conducted on that corridor.

            Commr. Hanson stated that the list shows the priority the County has placed on trails and questioned whether the County has a point person who has “trails” in their title.

            Commr. Pool stated that he feels the County needs a Trails Coordinator, noting that it helps with obtaining grant dollars, when the County can say they have a point person for trails, and it helps the general public, as well.

 


            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the recommended prioritization of projects for Lake County, from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Five-Year Work Program for Fiscal Years 2003/2004 through 2007/2008.

            OTHER BUSINESS

            APPOINTMENT TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2002-120, appointing members to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, as follows:

            Resident who, in connection with affordable housing, is actively engaged in banking or

            mortgage banking industry

 

            Mr. Greg King

 

            Resident who, in connection with affordable housing, is a representative of areas of labor

            engaged in home building

 

            Mr. George Rada

 

            Commr. Hanson stated that she felt it would be appropriate for the liaison Commissioner, along with Mr. Fletcher Smith, Senior Director, Community Services, to give a report to the Board on the impact of the Affordable Housing Program in the County.

            Mr. Smith stated that his department submits an annual report to the State that he could go over with the Board, with regard to the number of homes and mortgages that are processed through the program. He stated that his office will prepare a presentation, to be given at a later date, at which time they will go over the changes and issues that are facing the SHIP Program, statewide.

            ADDENDUM NO. 1

            OTHER BUSINESS (CONT’D.)

            APPOINTMENT TO BOARD OF BUILDING EXAMINERS

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Mr. Thomas M. Pechaus to a vacant position on the Board of Building Examiners, to complete an unexpired term ending January 14, 2005.

            APPOINTMENTS TO ELDER AFFAIRS COORDINATING COUNCIL

            On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board appointed Dr. Cara Jakob and Ms. Mary Peay-Brown to the Elder Affairs Coordinating Council, representing District 2.

            REPORTS

            COUNTY MANAGER

            CLOSING OF COUNTY OFFICES ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2002

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that the County is coordinating a memorial event, in remembrance of the September 11th tragedy, to be held at Hickory Point, in Tavares, at 3:00 p.m.; therefore, it has been recommended that all county offices be closed on that day at 1:00 p.m., in order to allow county employees to attend said event. He stated that he had checked with the other Constitutional Officers and that the consensus was that they would follow the Board’s lead.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, interjected that the Supervisor of Elections would not be able to close her office that day, because it is the day after elections.

            Mr. Neron stated that the Tax Collector, Mr. Bob McKee, was not sure whether he would be closing his office, however, noted that the Sheriff’s Office, the Clerk’s Office, and the Property Appraiser’s Office stated that they would follow the Board’s lead. He stated that he was informed that the Lake County School System will be releasing students that day at 1:00 p.m., as well.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved a request from the County Manager, Mr. Bill Neron, to close all Lake County Board of County Commission Offices on September 11, 2002, at 1:00 p.m., to allow employees to attend a memorial service that is scheduled to be held at Hickory Point, in Tavares, at 3:00 p.m., in memory of the September 11th tragedy.

            REPORTS

            COUNTY MANAGER

            SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that the request to hold a discussion regarding funding for School Resource Officers should have been pulled from the Agenda, due to the fact that it was addressed at the Worksession that was held on Monday, August 19, 2002.

 


            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER STIVENDER - DISTRICT 3

            HOB NOB FOR LEADERSHIP LAKE COUNTY

            Commr. Stivender reminded the Board about the Hob Nob for Leadership Lake County, scheduled to be held in the Magnolia Room, at Lake Sumter Community College, at 5:00 p.m. this date.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER CADWELL - DISTRICT 5

            REPAIRS TO NON-COUNTY MAINTAINED ROADS

            Commr. Cadwell informed the Board that they had approved for him to place on the Agenda a request to hold a discussion regarding some road repairs that need to be done to some non-county maintained roads in the Lake Mack and Lake Catherine areas of north Lake County, at which time he requested approval for the Public Works Department to put down some sand, or clay, or whatever is needed to get said roads repaired, with the understanding that this would be a one time deal. He also requested that they take a look at the main road that runs through Carlton Village, to see if it is passable.

            Commr. Stivender questioned whether the County was going to do this in every area, noting that she was concerned about some roads in the Lake Jem area.

            Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, stated that the roads would be handled on a case-by-case basis.

            It was noted that, at this time, only the roads in the Lake Mack area were being addressed, because that area of the County was hit rather hard with some heavy rain and flooding.

            Mr. Stivender reviewed a map of the Lake Mack area with the Board, pointing out some problem areas and how the Public Works Department plans to handle said problems.

            Commr. Hanson stated that she appreciated Mr. Stivender’s presentation and the overall big picture analysis. She stated that she also appreciated Commr. Cadwell and the Board looking into the matter and that she supported their efforts.

            Mr. Stivender stated that the Public Works Department is going to try to do some work to the roads in that area as soon as the water is drawn down and they can get into it. He stated that they are going to look at interacting the non-county maintained roads with the County roads, with regard to a drainage system, however, noted that they have a dilemma of how to get out of the land locked basin, which is Lake Mack. He stated that they may have a situation that the County may have to monitor forever. He noted that the Red Cross and the Salvation Army have been in the area, looking at setting up shelters, etc.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that there was a lengthy discussion at the last Staff Meeting about the situation in the Lake Mack area and that he was very pleased with the cooperation and coordination between the agencies. He stated that it was not a good situation, but the response worked the way it should have and everyone involved should be commended for the way they handled things.

            On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a 5-0 vote, the Board directed the Public Works staff to work on the roads in the Lake Mack area, as noted.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

            PROPERTIES IN THE COUNTY IN PUBLIC OWNERSHIP

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that the State has purchased a significant amount of property, particularly in the Wekiva River area. She stated that she would like to have staff bring a report back to the Board, at a later date, of those properties in the County that are in public ownership, which have platted subdivisions on them, with a recommendation to vacate said subdivisions. She stated that she feels they need to be taken off the books and eliminated, because they will probably never be developed, due to being in public ownership.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

            EVALUATION AND APPRAISAL REPORT AMENDMENTS

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director, Growth Management, put together a schedule for approval of the Evaluation and Appraisal Report (EAR) amendments, which she noted the Board should have received, giving them a schedule of when those items will be brought back before the Board. She stated that she appreciated the efforts of the County Manager, Mr. Neron, and Ms. Sharon Farrell, Senior Director of Growth Management, to make it happen. She stated that it has been a slow process. She stated that she did not believe any of these items, even in their passing, would have made a difference in any of the projects that the Board might have approved, because they have approved so few in the last few years. She stated that, even though it has been a slow process, she does not feel there has been a negative impact to the County.

            REPORTS

            COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

            NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE COUNTY FROM 1991 TO 2002

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that she had staff put together some figures indicating the number of new housing units that were approved by the various Boards, per year, from 1991 to 2002, at which time she distributed a handout containing said figures, which she reviewed with the Board. She stated that, from the years 1991 to 1994, there were a total of 12,891 new housing units approved, or an average of 3,222 per year. She stated that, during the next four years, from 1995 to 1998, there were a total of 2,524 new units approved, with an average of 631 per year, which she noted was a big drop, due to the Comprehensive Plan going into effect. She stated that, during the next four years, from 1999 to 2002, there have been a total of 1,759 new units approved, or an average of 439 units per year.

            Commr. Hanson stated that she felt said figures were important, because the general public believes that the Board is out of control, in its approval of growth. She stated that she has stated all along that most of the growth is from previously approved subdivisions, all the way back to the 1920s. She stated that, obviously, the press is not aware of said fact and that she feels they should be. She stated that she feels the Board needs to know what the report card is and how the County is dealing with the Comprehensive Plan and whether or not it is working. She stated that she appreciated staff putting said figures together and that she feels it needs to be kept up with on an ongoing basis, so that the County will always have an inventory. She thanked Ms. Farrell for putting said information together.

            RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

            At 10:15 a.m., the Chairman announced that the Board would recess until 11:00 a.m.

            WORKSESSION

            PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF DRAFT FISCAL YEAR 2003 TO 2006

            CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, informed the Board that staff has been working with Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Senior Director, Public Works, as well as the rest of the department directors and the Budget Office, to revamp the format for the Capital Improvements Program. He stated that the draft before the Board this date was the first draft of the revamped format. He stated that, as the County progresses over the next several months, there will be additions to the format, noting that, when there is a project listed, staff will add to the list the operational impacts of said project so that, when the Board makes decisions relating to projects, they will have said information. He stated that staff is trying to combine in one document projects that, in the past, may have been separated by various funds, such as Fire and Rescue, Transportation Trust, Impact Fees, Local Option Sales Tax, etc. He stated that the format for this proposal will be a self-balanced, self-funded plan, noting that, as the County finishes one year, they will add a fifth year to the tail end, so there will always be a five year program. He stated that the discipline that will have to go with this format is that, if the Board wants to add a project to the program, outside the cycle, they will either have to find a funding source to go with it, or delete another project, so that they can keep the program in balance. He thanked Mr. Stivender and his staff, as well as the department directors, for all their hard work in putting the document together.

             Mr. Stivender informed the Board that staff will probably be bringing back to them this time next year a more refined and detailed document. He reviewed, page by page, the 60 page document that staff had put together regarding the Capital Improvements Program for Fiscal Year 2003 through 2007 and answered questions from the Board regarding same. He stated that, once the program is in a format that everyone feels comfortable with, it will be available on the Internet, noting that one will be able to click on a particular project and view it, in detail, while it is under construction. He stated that people will be able to see how a project is progressing, without actually having to go to the site.

            Mr. Neron informed the Board that, as part of the reorganization that the County did, in January of this year, where Capital Improvements used to be separated into two different divisions, they are now combined under the Public Works Department. He stated that Mr. Chuck Creel is the new Capital Improvements Construction Projects Division Director and noted that there is now a county architect on board, as well, to help monitor the projects. He stated that they are gearing up to better manage the capital projects, so that they can have better cost estimates up front, better project management, as the projects are being constructed, and better information and maintenance on the projects, once they are constructed.

            Mr. Creel distributed to the Board a handout (Lake County Board of County Commissioners Square Foot Project Estimate), with regard to New Construction and Renovation Construction, for their perusal, which he reviewed, noting that, from the start-up of a project until it is completed, digital photographs, a progress report, and the final product will be available on the Internet, along with a schedule, for review by the general public.

            Commr. Pool recognized Ms. Dottie Keedy, City Administrator, City of Tavares, and Mr. Frank Caputo, City Councilman, City of Clermont, who were present in the audience, and thanked them for attending the meeting.

            Mr. Stivender informed the Board that staff will be bringing the issue of impact fees to them at the Board Meeting scheduled for September 17, 2002, however, noted that they will be bringing the issue of stormwater management back to them at a later date, updating them on some of the little projects that have been done throughout the County. He noted some changes that needed to be made, with regard to the category of County Fire Control (Assessment Fees), due to the fact that some of the information had changed. He stated that staff would have an update on said information within the next few weeks.

            Mr. Neron interjected that the County will need to do a new five year plan for Fire Safety. He noted that they will have an interim plan, which will be updated at a later date.

            Mr. Stivender stated that the County Manager asked him to put together a Parks and Recreation City/County Needs Assessment Master Plan, indicating the needs of the County and the Cities for parks and recreation and all types of services associated with it, which he will be bringing to the Board sometime next month. He stated that, with regard to the Infrastructure Sales Tax issue, he would like to readdress it with the Board sometime this Fall. He addressed the issues of what to do with Building H (former Health Department); the Fairgrounds/Expo Center; and the Agricultural Center.

            Mr. Neron interjected that staff has not made a decision regarding what to do with said buildings, noting that, when one looks at the full cost of renovation, the County might be better off to tear down and build new, with the money available, and that is what staff is considering at the present time.

            Mr. Stivender stated that staff is trying to handle these projects in such a way as to not compromise costs now, by tearing it out in just a few years, to do other things they would like to do. He stated that they are trying to balance all these things. He stated that some costs will be compromised, but staff is trying to minimize it, so that what the County does today can be utilized in the future. He noted that the new South Lake County Government Complex will house a division of the Building Department, a branch of the Clerk’s Office, a branch of the Property Appraiser’s Office, a branch of the Tax Collector’s Office, a branch of the Supervisor of Elections’ Office, a Courtroom, and a substation for the Sheriff’s Office. He stated that the Emergency Operations Center/Public Safety Building will house the Emergency Operations Center ( EOC), dispatch for Fire and EMS, offices for the Public Administration staff, E-911, and the Fire Administration staff. He stated that they are trying to pool all the things associated with emergency operations into one location.

            Mr. Neron interjected that the reason for doing it is that, with all the home land security money coming into the County from the Federal Government, staff would love to have a design on the shelf so that, when funds become available, the County can say they have a plan and are ready to go. He stated that it will be an expensive project, so he is hoping to obtain some grants, or outside sources of funding, to assist the County with it.

            Mr. Stivender stated that money has been set aside for the purchase of green space and environmentally sensitive lands in the County and for upgrading the Information Technology “Digital Canopy”, at which time it was noted that a handout pertaining to fibre optics was distributed to the Board, for their perusal. He stated that there will be a 135,000 square foot expansion to the Lake County Judicial Center by the year 2007, as well as a Judicial Center Parking Garage, which will tie into the Judicial Center. He suggested that the County build the parking garage, before it expands the Judicial Center, at which time it was noted that land is currently available to do so. He addressed the issues of the Master Space and Facilities Plan, the PEAR Park, the Pod E Jail expansion, the Records Storage Facility, the Round-A-Bout in Downtown Tavares, and vehicles and equipment for the Sheriff’s Office.

            Mr. Neron interjected that, at some point in time, the Board is going to need to look at available revenue that the County will have in a five year increment and the amount of dollars that will be required from said revenue for the Sheriff’s vehicles and question whether that is where they want to fund said vehicles, to the detriment of other projects.

            Mr. Stivender briefly discussed the issue of fibre optics and the need to improve and enhance them around the County’s facilities and the estimate for doing same, as well as pointed out the fact that, once the Lake County Judicial Center is expanded, the County is going to have to expand its Central Water Plant, as well. He reviewed those projects involving sidewalk construction, which he noted will be funded with Infrastructure Sales Tax funds. He briefly reviewed the Solid Waste Fees (Long-Term Capital Projects), as well as projects involving the County Library System, funded with State Aid Grants, such as the Library Automation System, the Library Computer Server, and a Library Security and Collection Management System. He noted that they had also included in the handout a list of projects that did not fit anywhere else, but that they wanted the Board to be aware of, that were under $100,000, but more than $25,000. He then briefly discussed Unfunded Projects that fall under the Infrastructure Sales Tax Fund.

            Commr. Hanson stated that she did not see an allowance for any new roads that are not county maintained being brought into the County Road Maintenance System, at which time she noted that she feels there are some collector roads that the County needs to look at, where there is enough traffic traveling on them that they are no longer neighborhood roads. She then questioned the fact that, when staff deals with the renovation of some of the buildings, whether they are looking at two stories, noting that she feels this is something the County should consider, particularly in the downtown area. She questioned whether the County had considered purchasing the land that is located between the PEAR project property and Hwy. 27, noting that she felt a partnership could be attained with the City of Leesburg in that area. She stated that, with regard to additional revenue sources, she feels some might come up with the Blue Ribbon Committee that staff will be working with, with regard to additional equipment for the Sheriff’s Office. She questioned whether staff had allowed for inflation, in the projected expenditures of the projects listed in the handout, and was informed that they allowed 5% per year for construction costs on all the construction projects. She stated that, with regard to the sidewalk construction project along CR 437, she would recommend that the sidewalk be constructed from the County line to SR 46, rather than just from the Chamber of Commerce building, which is only one mile. She stated that, with regard to community centers, a community center for Sorrento needed to be added to the list, because they no longer have a community center in Sorrento, or in the east Lake County area.

            Commr. Cadwell questioned whether, on a staff level, the County had looked at all the increased costs, especially on the transportation side, of delaying those projects until the funds are available, as opposed to bonding, at least for the County’s portion of the transportation projects.

            Mr. Neron stated that he had some information that he shared with Ms. Sarah LaMarche, Senior Director, Budget and Administrative Services, and Mr. Gregg Welstead, Deputy County Manager, on the potential bonding of some portion of the local option sales tax, however, noted that they have not looked at gas tax bonding.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that he was thinking about the portion that will be used for transportation.

            Mr. Neron stated that he had just received said information and, until staff gets some numbers and totals better formulated, that would be the next step.

            Commr. Stivender questioned whether the $180,000 cost for the Master Plan could come out of the pari-mutuel funds.

            Mr. Minkoff stated that there is a possibility that it could be a funding source for the Master Plan, however, noted that he would have to look at the bond documents.

            Commr. Stivender informed the Board that the Lake Region Packing Plant is ready to sell their property and the possible purchase of said property is something that has been on her list for years, while she was a City Councilwoman with the City of Tavares and now as a County Commissioner. She stated that she thought it should be added to the list of Capital Improvement Projects before the Board this date, noting that, due to the fact that the property is located directly behind the Administration Building, she feels the County will be a participant in the potential purchase of it. She questioned how the sidewalks that are scheduled to be constructed in the County will be maintained, noting that the ones that have previously been constructed have not been maintained.

            Mr. Stivender stated that, because of the manpower needed to maintain them, the County has contracted out said maintenance.

            Commr. Pool questioned the dates for the trail connection from Hancock Road north to SR 50 and then to Minneola.

            Mr. Fred Schneider, Engineering Director, Public Works, stated that he planned to bid the project in September of this year.

            Mr. Neron stated that he asked Mr. Stivender to see what renovations can be done at the Fairgrounds, if money is appropriated, prior to next year’s Fair, which is scheduled for April, and that he wanted the Board to be aware of said fact.

            Mr. Stivender questioned what the Board thought about this format and was informed that they liked it. He stated that the idea is that this will be brought forward at this time each year and worked on during the year and, in between, there will be some updates to it. He stated that staff would have an updated report at the meeting scheduled for September 17, 2002, and that he would like to move forward with the issue of impact fees at said meeting. He stated that it is something that staff needs to spend some time on over the next few months, so that they can have some good numbers and a good program.

            Mr. Neron suggested that Mr. Stivender spend approximately one hour each quarter updating the Board on the matter, because it is such an important aspect of what the County is doing.

            Commr. Pool thanked staff for all their hard work, noting that he appreciated all the effort they put into it.

            REPORTS (CONT’D.)

            COMMISSIONER HANSON - DISTRICT 4

            ANNEXATIONS

            Commr. Hanson informed the Board that she had an item that she would like to add to the Agenda, which might require a vote, at which time she made a motion, which was seconded by Commr. Cadwell, to put on the Agenda a discussion regarding annexations.

            The Chairman called for a vote on the motion, which failed, by a 3-2 vote.

            Commrs. Stivender and Hill voted “No”.

            It was noted that the vote would have to be 4-1, to put the item on the Agenda for action; therefore, Commr. Hanson could discuss it under her Reports, but no action could be taken regarding it.

            Commr. Hanson stated that she had received a letter from Ms. Leslie Campione, Attorney, regarding a City of Groveland annexation. She stated that, because of the annexations that are occurring, she feels the Board should have staff at least look at the potential annexations and offer ideas and suggestions regarding them. She stated that she feels the Board needs to be more aware of which properties are being annexed and what the plan is, as it affects the Comprehensive Plan. She stated that she feels the Board needs to have more input into that process.

            Commr. Pool stated that he was asked to attend a public meeting regarding annexations in Commr. Stivender’s district and questioned whether they could attend the meeting together, or whether he should stay away.

            Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that, if they both intended to discuss the issue of annexations at the meeting, it would have to be advertised as a Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting and a Recording Secretary would have to attend it and take Minutes.

            Commr. Pool pointed out the fact that the meeting is being held in Commr. Stivender’s district; therefore, he would prefer to have her attend the meeting.

            Mr. Bill Neron, County Manager, stated that he does not feel staff is handling the issue of annexations very well. He stated that he does not think a week goes by that his office does not get a notice about an annexation somewhere in the County. He stated that how the County responds to said notices and coordinates with local governments is part of the Joint Planning Agreement (JPA) process, with regard to fire stations, parks and recreation, solid waste, etc., and he does not know what the answer is for the County go about it in a logical, meaningful fashion. He stated that he, as the County Manager, is concerned about these issues and whether the County is doing enough to coordinate with the local governments. He stated that he would like to have the opportunity to do a little more research on the matter, before he comes back to the Board, but feels that it is definitely rising on the radar screen.

            Commr. Cadwell stated that, if Commr. Stivender wished to relay her feelings about the matter at the meeting that was alluded to, it was fine, but he feels that she needs to make sure the Board has not taken any action on the matter.

            Commr. Hanson stated that she feels the Board should at least have some input into the process.

            Mr. Neron stated that he did not want staff to be giving input on proposed annexations that have not been funneled through the Board, noting that he did not want to get the County in that position. He stated that whatever the County does has to be done in a coordinated fashion that is funneled through the Board.

            Commr. Pool stated that he felt it would be important for the Board to meet on the matter in the near future.

            Mr. Neron stated that he would do some research and see if he could figure out a process that the County could utilize to better handle the issue and get back to the Board with something at a later date.

            There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 12:30 p.m.

 

                                                                                    ____________________________

                                                                                    ROBERT A. POOL, CHAIRMAN

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

__________________________

JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK

 

sec/8-20-2002/8-23-2002/boardmin