A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

May 3, 2005

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 3, 2005, 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: Jennifer Hill, Chairman; Catherine C. Hanson, Vice Chairman; Welton G. Cadwell; Debbie Stivender; and Robert A. Pool. Others present were: Sanford A. “Sandy” Minkoff, County Attorney; Cindy Hall, Interim County Manager; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, Board of County Commissioners’ Office; Barbara Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Judy Whaley, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

Rev. Felix Ramirez gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

CINCO DE MAYO

Rev. Ramirez gave a brief history of Cinco de Mayo which commemorates the defeat of the French army by the Mexicans in 1862. He invited everyone to attend the celebration on Saturday, May 7, 2005, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the corner of Hickory and State Road 50, City of Mascotte, Florida, for music, dancers, food, games and children’s activities.

RECOGNITION

Commr. Hill recognized Ms. Kyleen Fischer who is a member of the Lake County School Board.

AGENDA UPDATE

There were no updates to the agenda.

MINUTE APPROVAL

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Minutes of March 15, 2005, Regular Meeting, as presented.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Minutes of March 29, 2005, Regular Meeting, as presented.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Minutes of April 11, 2005, Special Meeting, as presented.

CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

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

Contractor Bonds

New

5903-05 Tony L. Crawford d.b.a. Precision Sprinkler Systems LLC

6366-05 Dodson Roofing, Inc.

6367-05 Willco Electric, Inc.

6368-05 Dean V. Martin/Thomas James Imaging Inc. (Electrical Signs)

6369-05 Theodore Kocsis/All States Lighting, Inc.

6370-05 Dhanraj Inderdeo/National Electrical Company d.b.a. NECO

6371-05 Deborah Raymond d.b.a. England Roofing

6372-05 Jason Benjamin d.b.a. Absolute Air & Electric, Inc.

Cancellations

4741-04 Lange Construction, Inc. (Contracting-Roofer)

5662-05 Ronald Tripp d.b.a. Action Electric Service & Repair

List of Checks or Warrants Paid

Request to acknowledge receipt of list of checks or 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.

Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases

Request to acknowledge receipt of Monthly Distribution of Revenue Traffic/Criminal Cases, Month Ending 31 March, 2005. Disbursements due to Board: $164,555.89. Same period, last year: $234,753.22.

Ordinance – Town of Lady Lake

Request to acknowledge receipt of the following Ordinances from the Town of Lady Lake: Ordinance 2005-01 – Voluntary annexation of property owned by Wanda Reed. Ordinance 2005-02 – Amending Town of Lady Lake Ordinance No. 81-8-(83) –Small Scale Future Land Use Map Amendment – Wanda Reed. Ordinance 2005-03 – Redesignating zoning classification – Wanda Reed. Ordinance 2005-05 - Amending Town of Lady Lake Ordinance No. 81-8-(83) –Small Scale Future Land Use Map Amendment – Beyer’s Funeral Home. Ordinance 2005-06 - Redesignating zoning classification – Beyer’s Funeral Home. Ordinance 2005-07 – Sixth Amendment to the Amended Development Order for the Tri-County Villages Development of Regional Impact. Ordinance 2005-08 – Amending Ordinance No. 2003-14 and Exhibit “A” relating to the provision of fire rescue services, facilities, and programs within that portion of Lady Lake located within The Villages, and as further described.

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Request to acknowledge receipt from Southwest Florida Water Management District of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for Fiscal Year ended September 30, 2004. The CAFR has been posted to the District’s website at http://www.watermatters.org under Business & Finance.

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 3 through 18, as follows:

Budget

Request for approval of Budget transfer – Pollution Recovery Fund, Department of Environmental Services, Water Resource Management Division, is requested. Transfer $25,000.00 from Machinery & Equipment to Contractual Services. The funds for the Household Heating Oil Recovery service program were not budgeted in the correct line item originally, and the funds need to be transferred.

Request for approval of. Budget transfer – Resort/Development Tax Fund, Department of Economic Development/Tourism, is requested. Transfer $25,000.00 from Promotional Activities to Hospitality Expenses. On April 5, 2005, the Board of County Commissioners approved a policy, which provides for expenditures for entertainment. This line item is being established in order to maintain a control of such expenses. Funds available in existing Promotional Activities line item.

Request for approval of Budget transfer – Landfill Enterprise Fund, Department of Environmental Services, Solid Waste Disposal Operations Division, is requested. Transfer $198,394.00 from Professional Services ($55,000.00); Rentals and Leases ($91,000.00); and Reserve for Operations ($52,394.00) to Machinery and Equipment. The lease of a roll-off truck was scheduled for Fiscal Year 2004 and Fiscal Year 2005. A bid in September 2004 resulted in no responses from vendors. It has been determined that there is a significant cost savings by purchasing these trucks through a piggyback contract with the City of Tallahassee at $99,197.00 for each truck. The existing roll-off trucks being used by the department have exceeded their useful life and repair costs have been prohibitive. Funds available in Professional Services due to the negotiated contract price for outside laboratory is lower than anticipated. Funds are available in Rentals and Leases due to the trucks not being leased. Remainder of funds available in Reserve for Operations.

Economic Development and Tourism

Request for approval of Proclamation 2005-59 designating May 9 through May 16, 2005 as National Tourism Week.

Employee Services

Request for approval of an offer to settle Diane Palozzolo's claim for property damage in the amount of $79.90, subject to the County Attorney's review and approval.

Growth Management

Request for approval to purchase wireless field inspection solution (Mobile Hwy) as an add-on to the CDPLUS (Perconti) system; and approval of transfer of funds from Building Services reserve account and associated budget transfer request in the amount of $102,250.00.

Procurement Services

Request for approval to award the contract for On Call Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Services to Brian Cumming & Associates in accordance with RFQ Number 05-045 and 05-046.

Request for approval to award the contract for Public Safety Automated Staffing Software to Principal Decisions Systems International in accordance with RFP Number 05-060 in the amount of $46,320.00.

Public Safety

Request for approval of Resolution 2005-60 to accept the National Incident Management System (NIMS). The NIMS, dated March 1, 2004, was developed by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Request for approval of the final Lake County Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) by the Lake County Board of County Commissioners. In accordance with the agreement between the State of Florida, Department of Community Affairs and Lake County, the COOP encompasses plans for six critical services: Fire/Rescue, Police/Sheriffs, Emergency Management, 911 Communications, EMS/Ambulance, and Public Works/Engineering.

Public Works

Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase I, Mulberry Village and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase I, Mulberry Village plat. Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase I, Mulberry Village consists of 73 lots – Commission District 3.

Request for approval and authorization to accept two final plats for the Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase II, Arbordale Village and Ashland Village and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase II, Arbordale Village and Ashland Village final plats; accept a Letter of Credit in the amount of $1,315,000.00; and execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and the Plantation at Leesburg, LP. The Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase II, Arbordale Village consists of 45 lots and the Plantation at Leesburg, Tract G, Phase II, Ashland Village consists of 180 lots – Commission District 3.

Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Harbor Hills Phase 4 and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Harbor Hills Phase 4 plat. Harbor Hills Phase 4 consists of nine lots – Commission District 5.

Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Panoramic View Estates and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Panoramic View Estates plat. Panoramic View Estates consists of four lots – Commission District 2.

Request for approval and authorization to accept the final plat for Addison Place and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Addison Place final plat; accept a Cashier's Check in the amount of $4,125.00; and execute a Developer's Agreement for Construction of Improvements between Lake County and Showcase Homes, Inc. Addison Place consists of 57 lots – Commission District 4.

Request for approval and authorization to release a Letter of Credit for Construction of Improvements in the total amount of $1,650,000.00 that was posted for Sorrento Hills Phase 3. Sorrento Hills Phase 3 contains 160 lots - Commission District 4.

Request for approval and signature on the Agreement between the Lake County Board of County Commissioners and BP Products North America, Inc. for intersection improvements associated with Grand Highway at the intersection of U.S. 27 in Clermont.

Request for approval, adoption and execution of the Resolution 2005-61 facilitating the Supplemental Local Agency Program Agreement for the SR-19 Landscaping Project; execution of the Supplemental Local Agency Program Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation for the SR-19 Landscaping Project (FDOT FPN 410761-1-58-01); authorization to award the SR-19 Landscaping & Irrigation LAP Project Number 2004-14 to Commercial Landscape & Irrigation, Inc. in the amount of $210,000.00; and approval to encumber and expend $210,000.00 from the General Fund. The funds will be reimbursed to the General Fund from LAP revenue after the project is completed. Commission District 3.

OTHER BUSINESS – MARCH OF DIMES

Commr. Hill congratulated everyone who participated in this year’s March of Dimes fundraising effort. She stated that Lake County surpassed its goal by raising more than $10,726. She thanked the nineteen employees who participated in last Saturday’s walk through the City of Tavares.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES - EMPLOYEE AWARDS

The Chairman presented the following Employee Awards, with Ms. Sharon Wall, Employee Services Director, giving brief remarks about each individual:

Presentation of Awards to Employees with Five Years of Service

Ms. Jacqueline R. “Jacquie” Droz, Senior CAD Technician, Public Works/Engineering Survey/Design

Ms. Elizabeth A. “Liz’ Eginton, Community Development Block Grant Director, Community Services/Community Development Block Grant

Ms. Leslie H. Grayson, Librarian II, Community Services/Library Services

Ms. Christina M. Hannon, Risk & Benefits Manager Director, Employee Services/Risk & Benefits Management

Ms. Jennifer E. Lobato, Public Hearing Coordinator, Growth Management/Code Enforcement

Mr. Robert J. “Rob” Maxwell, Library Assistant, Community Services/Library Services/East Lake Library

Presentation of Awards to Employees with Fifteen Years of Service

Mr. Jonathan F. Iannone, Support Services Supervisor, Public Safety/Fire and Rescue

Mr. James A. Story, Equipment Operator III, Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area II

Presentation of Award to Employee with Twenty Years of Service

Mr. Dennis L. Warren, Roads Superintendent, Public Works/Road Operations

Presentation of Award for Employee of the Quarter

Mr. Christopher Goldsmith, Equipment Operator III, Public Works/Road Operations/Maintenance Area II

Presentation of Award for Supervisor of the Quarter

Ms. Caryl Harris, Interim Branch Manager, Cooper Memorial Library, Community Services/Library Services

Presentation of Work Group Recognition Award

Cooper Memorial Library Staff:

Caryl Harris Laterria Jones

Katia Barber Mee Lee

Esther Catino Izabela Popovska

Edd Cruz Dennis Smolarek

Wayne Gudzinskas Kristen Wiley

Lynda Hogans

PRESENTATION

LAKE-SUMTER METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION

Commr. Stivender, as Chairman of the Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization (LSMPO), and Mr. T.J. Fish, Executive Director, LSMPO, presented awards to Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, and Mr. Noble Olasimbo, Engineer IV, Public Works, for the tremendous job they did in getting the LSMPO started in Lake County.

Mr. Stivender expressed his appreciation to Mr. Olasimbo for pushing to make sure everything happened on time. He stated that there were challenges all the way from Tallahassee to Lake County.

PRESENTATION

PROCLAMATION - EUSTIS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL TEAM

Commr. Hanson read and presented Proclamation 2005-54 to members of the Eustis High School Boys Basketball Team, the Panthers, upon winning their third straight district championship at the Class 3-A State Basketball Championship. Congratulations were extended to Head Coach Rob Gordon, Head Assistant Coach Shayne Carey, Assistant Coaches Corey Rolle and Donnell Brown and team members: Akeem Dunham, Joe Burnett, Anthony Walters, Kadero Terrell, Wardell Rivers, Brett McCollum, Derrick Campbell, Donald Jackson, Courtney Keith, Steve Repass, Marlin Vilius, Cole Myers and Todd Harris.

Head Coach Gordon expressed appreciation to the Board for this prestigious honor.

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation 2005-54 honoring the Eustis High School Boys Basketball Team upon winning their third straight district championship at the Class 3-A State Basketball Championship.

PRESENTATION

PROCLAMATION - TAVARES HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL TEAM

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation 2005-55 honoring the Tavares High School Girls Basketball Team upon winning the Class 3-A District Basketball Championship.

Commr. Stivender read and presented Proclamation 2005-55 to members of the Tavares High School Girls Basketball Team. Congratulations were extended to Head Coach Connie Solomon, Assistant Coaches Takara Solomon and Scott Deleo and team members: Cassy Corah, Brandi Lecky, Denora Hubbard, Samantha Elliott, Natalie Bonds, Mandy Mapp, Jessica Davis, Brittany Lueallen, Stacy Patrick, Kelsey Hartman, Brittany Heitling and Courtney Channell.

Head Coach Solomon thanked the Board for this distinguished honor.

PRESENTATION

PROCLAMATION - DRAGON BOAT TEAM

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation 2005-62 honoring the Lake County employees, the Dragonflies, who participated in the third annual Central Florida Dragon Boat Races at Wooton Park, Tavares, Florida, on the weekend of April 8-10, 2005.

Commr. Stivender read and presented Proclamation 2005-62 to the Dragonflies: Carmen Carroll, Jessica Clark, Duane Connell, Danielle Coon, Tony Deaton, Debi Dyer, Christina Hannon, Marcia Johnson, Amye King, Vicki Kochevar, Kathy Jo Lawson, Kirsten Mabry, Linda Meeker, Isaac Melving, Kathy Padgett, Nicole Stoothoff, Shannon Suffron, and Vern Worsley.

PRESENTATION

LAKEFRONT TV – CHANNEL 22

Commr. Hill explained that, on February 1, 2005, the Board approved to pursue the establishment of a second educational and governmental channel on Comcast Cable. The Board requested that County staff coordinate with the City of Leesburg and Lake-Sumter Community College (LSCC) to establish a “business plan” for the operation of the second channel.

Mr. Jim Perry, Assistant City Manager, City of Leesburg, Florida, stated that the new educational, governmental channel is being broadcast on Comcast Cable’s Channel 22 as of April 29, 2005. He presented a booklet and showed a PowerPoint slideshow (the literature and a CD are included in the backup material). Seven of Lake County’s fourteen municipalities are currently represented on the channel as are the Constitutional Officers and Lake County government. He remarked that a business plan will be presented by mid-August.

Mr. Perry read the mission statement as follows: To give the citizens of Lake County the highest quality educational, governmental television channel possible while providing interesting, timely and relevant information through a partnership between Lake County, Lake-Sumter Community College and the City of Leesburg which will 1) provide our citizens access to accurate information in the sunshine; 2) enhance our quality of life through the promotion of fine arts, music and cultural endeavors; and 3) become the county-wide information source to turn to in the event of emergencies, severe weather events or disasters.

Mr. Perry pointed out that there was no way to distribute information countywide during last year’s hurricane season. He requested that the Board consider moving forward with connections to Bright House Networks and to Florida Cable in Astatula which would give greater accessibility to Lake County’s citizens.

In response to Commr. Hill’s inquiry about access for DirecTV or Dish Network users, Mr. Perry stated that should be researched. He opined that small satellite users would not have access. He stated that there is a strong feeling that the best way to bring information to the citizens is by providing both LSCC TV (Channel 13) and the new Lakefront TV (Channel 22) on as many systems as is possible. He stated that the City of Leesburg will help by facilitating the fiber connections if the County is able to negotiate additional cable hookups.

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board authorized County staff to go forward in requesting the different cable providers, and other service franchisees providing service throughout Lake County, to provide access to the information network.

Commr. Cadwell expressed appreciation to the City of Leesburg for coming forward and offering this partnership with the County.

Mr. Richard Scott, Vice President of Administrative Services, LSCC, stated that they owe the Board a comprehensive plan that lays out how both of these channels will be brought forth and how they will be connected to the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) and if there are any monies involved.

County staff will help the smaller cities create information for the channel if needed.

Mr. Perry explained that the equipment that was purchased by the City of Leesburg would allow the County EOC to interrupt programming and, potentially, broadcast on Comcast’s Channel 22 and LSCC Channel 13.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the County does not currently have franchises with the satellite companies. Those companies only carry local channels because of a requirement of the Federal government. This channel probably would not qualify under that rule.

CITIZEN QUESTION AND COMMENT PERIOD

Deborah and Richard Goodroe

Mr. and Mrs. Goodroe of Altoona addressed the Board regarding a pool they had built in 2001 which actually passed the County’s final inspection. There were structural problems with the pool and the diving board and, because the board did not meet proper diving coding, it had to be removed. Because of the structural problems, the pool can never have a diving board. They cited problems with the contractor, John Wetzel d.b.a. Advanced Watershapes, and the County’s building department and explained the two resulting arbitrations. They stated that the County’s permitting process did not work for them. (Mr. Gregg Welstead, Deputy County Manager, distributed memoranda and a letter which are included in the backup material.)

Commr. Cadwell will meet with Mr. Welstead to see how the County can do its job better.

F.B. “Tim” Hatfield, Jr.

Mr. Hatfield addressed the Board to seek assistance in lowering the water level in the Lake Holly chain of lakes. The problem is a dam just east of County Road 452 in the Lake Yale/Lake Griffin canal which is causing the water to run uphill into Lake Holly. He stated that he has already contacted the Lake County Water Authority and the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). He believes that SJRWMD plans to lower the culvert on Emeralda Island Road and both projects could be done at one time.

Commr. Cadwell and staff will find out whom to contact and get involved on Mr. Hatfield’s behalf.

Travis Whigham

Mr. Travis Whigham, President of the Forest Hills Association, inquired about the progress on temporary maintenance on Fonseca Lane that would allow rescue vehicles to get through.

Mr. Jim Stivender, Jr., Public Works Director, advised that the road has been inspected but no work has been done yet.

Regarding a dock on Lake Mack, Commr. Cadwell reported that the process is open and ongoing now.

Mr. Whigham invited Commr. Cadwell to attend the Forest Hills Association meeting that will be held sometime in the next two weeks.

RECOGNITION

Commr. Hill recognized Mr. Jim Myers, Jr., who is the City Clerk, City of Eustis, Florida, and Executive Director of the Lake County League of Cities.

COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

COMMUNITY SERVICES

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES – LIFESTREAM BEHAVIORAL CENTER, INC.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved to extend the contract with LifeStream Behavioral Center, Inc., d/b/a Lake County Transit through June 30, 2005, to serve the transportation disadvantaged for Lake County.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES - MV TRANSPORTATION, INC.

Mr. Fletcher Smith, Community Services Director, presented the request for approval to award the contract for transportation operator for the Lake County Transportation Disadvantaged Program to MV Transportation, Inc. (MV) in accordance with RFP 05-011 for an estimated annual cost of $3,473,280.00. The contract would be effective July 1, 2005.

Commr. Cadwell stated that this has been a long process and that the good relationship with LifeStream Behavioral Center (LifeStream) has been part of that thought process. He stated that he has never questioned whether MV could do the job. He remarked that there is a question of how the County will continue its relationship with LifeStream and what that relationship will be. He stated that this Board committed last year, and possibly will commit this year, to start assisting LifeStream, the County’s mental health provider, with some of their programs. He stated that the County needs to step up and help them instead of keeping them in a business that they are trying to squeeze a little profit out of for those programs. He opined that eventually LifeStream will be better for it and have more money contributed by the County and the transportation system will be better by having a professional company that is in that business. He stated that he wants to make sure that the Board is committed to work with LifeStream on those mental health programs.

The other Board members expressed agreement.

Commr. Pool remarked that the County needs to look to Tallahassee and others who can help with some of the funding opportunities.

Mr. Edward Griffin, MV Transportation, Inc., (MV) stated that MV will continue to have a great relationship with LifeStream. MV elected to use the facility that LifeStream has been using and is looking toward a relationship where MV will be doing the maintenance on LifeStream’s service vehicles. Mr. Griffin stated that MV recognizes LifeStream’s importance to the community and they will be a partner in the transportation system. He stated that when MV comes to a community they become part of the community.

Commr. Pool asked if there is an advantage if the County were to purchase the fuel and would that minimize or eliminate some of the cost of dealing with taxes for road use.

Mr. Smith remarked that there could be an advantage to purchasing gas through the Public Works Department. While negotiating the contract with MV, gas prices were fluctuating greatly and there was a decision to let MV purchase the gas in order to limit the County’s risk.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, stated that the contract specifies that, at the end of the first six-month period, the parties will look at all aspects of the operation and look at possible changes. The risk was on the amount of fuel as well as the price of fuel. Because the project was not bid out with the County providing the fuel, the County is not sure what MV’s estimates are for gallons, so we take a risk there. MV does not really know what LifeStream was spending on fuel. He stated that MV has been willing to use our fuel and, at the end of the six months, when we have a good handle on the amount of mileage and amount of fuel, that can be renegotiated.

Mr. Griffin confirmed that everyone was a little hesitant about the exact figures and decided it would be best for both the County and MV to get some good data and go from there.

Commr. Hanson asked why the cost of the Medicaid trips would be different in different counties. She asked what the cost will be in Lake County.

Mr. Griffin explained that a lot of the Medicaid trips involve miles traveled. In rural areas, there may not be a medical facility and the trip would involve travel to a larger city, such as in Hernando County with trips to Tampa. He stated that the cost per trip in Lake County is very comparable to other rural counties of similar size, etc. MV will be charging $21.60 per trip in Lake County, based on the number of trips, but the contract will take off $0.16 because of a grant for the software system. That reduces the trip cost to $21.44.

Mr. Smith reported that the amount of Medicaid transportation funding that the County is getting is $991, 000.00 this year.

Mr. Minkoff stated that the Medicaid reimbursement is a flat rate, not a per trip rate. Regarding the contract, Mr. Minkoff stated that the Board will be able to cancel at anytime without cause and that MV is willing to work with that condition.

Commr. Stivender expressed appreciation to Mr. Smith; Mr. Ken Harley, Public Transportation Manager; Mr. Minkoff and his staff; Ms. Cindy Hall, Interim County Manager; Mr. T.J. Fish, Executive Director, Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization; Ms. Diane Poitras, Florida Department of Transportation; LifeStream Behavioral Center; Ms. Regina Frazier, Budget Director; and Ms. Amy Bradford, Administrative Office Associate II, Transportation Disadvantaged Division.

Mr. Minkoff reiterated that the $3,473,280.00 is based on 162,000 trips. If the trips are less, the cost will be less. If the trips are greater than that, criteria will have to be put in to restrict the number of trips or additional funds must be found.

Mr. Griffin explained that a user screening assessment process is in place and MV wants to see those that truly need the service use it. He noted that, once a deviated fixed route is established on U.S. Highway 441, a lot of people can be moved to that service, which will result in a cost savings.

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the contract, effective July 1, 2005, for Transportation Operator for the Lake County Transportation Disadvantaged Program with MV Transportation, Inc. (MV) in accordance with RFP 05-011 for an estimated annual cost of $3,473,280.00.

REPORTS – COUNTY ATTORNEY

LAKE COUNTY VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD

On a motion by Commr. Pool, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved renewal agreements with Potter, Clement, Lowry & Duncan and Taylor Appraisal Company to provide special master services for the Lake County Value Adjustment Board.

PURCHASE OF FLOOD-PRONE PROPERTY IN LAKE MACK AREA

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained that the Board previously authorized staff to try to purchase this flood-prone property in the Lake Mack area. The property was appraised for $50,000. There is a loan on the property that is much greater than that amount. Mr. Minkoff stated that Mr. Kristian Swenson, Road Operations Director, who has been greatly involved in this process, has been working with the bank and it looks like the property can be purchased for $50,000, free and clear of all liens.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved to offer appraisal price ($50,000) to purchase property located at 43945 Jessie Avenue, Deland, Florida, (Lake Mack area) from Lawrence and Shelley Boiardi; and authorized the Chairman to execute all closing documents.

DONATION OF PROPERTY TO HOMES IN PARTNERSHIP, INC.

Mr. Sandy Minkoff, County Attorney, explained that it was asked a few months ago that real property at 38610 Line Street, Umatilla, Florida, be donated to Habitat for Humanity. The property needs legal action to gain clear title. Homes in Partnership, Inc., has indicated they would like to have the property and they will do the legal action themselves. Mr. Minkoff recommended donating the property to Homes in Partnership who will sign an agreement to use the property as part of Lake County’s Affordable Housing Program. Other parcels are being sought for Habitat.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Pool and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Resolution 2005-63 declaring specific County property as surplus, more particularly described as south 114 feet of Lot 18, Umatilla Turpentine Company Subdivision (38610 Line Street, Umatilla, Florida); authorizing the donation of the property to Homes in Partnership, Inc., for the purpose of providing affordable housing to the citizens of Lake County, Florida; and approval and execution of Developer's Agreement and Deed transferring property to Homes in Partnership, Inc.

REPORTS – COUNTY MANAGER

PLANNING HORIZON 2025

Mr. Gregg Welstead, Deputy County Manager/Growth Management Director, gave a short presentation on “Planning Horizon 2025,” Lake County’s new Comprehensive Plan. He explained that, over the last few months, in excess of 1,000 people have given input during public forums such as Chamber of Commerce meetings, Kiwanis and Rotary meetings. He asked for final public input during the month of May and referred to the County’s website, http://www.lakegovernment.com/2025. Mr. Welstead urged citizens to click on “Survey” and complete it or e-mail comments to the Comprehensive Planning Division via the link that is provided.

Mr. Welstead stated that planners, at the end of May, will work on the actual writing of the Comprehensive Plan elements and a workshop is scheduled with the Lake County Local Planning Agency on May 26, 2005, to review all of the issues. Public comments will be discussed at that workshop.

The Comprehensive Plan is the foundation for local planning as it acts as an outline of the community's vision and priorities. The task of drafting the new comprehensive plan will be a partnership between Lake County citizens, municipalities, county government and other local and regional entities. Upon completion, the new plan, titled “Planning Horizon 2025,” will provide flexible guidelines for policymakers, land managers and land users about how to conserve, rehabilitate or develop an area.

Commr. Cadwell stated that Mr. Welstead has put together a good team and everything has been done that could be done to get citizen input. He opined that the process could not have been done any better with an outside consultant.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HILL – DISTRICT #1 AND CHAIRMAN

PROCLAMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT MONTH

On a motion by Commr. Hanson, seconded by Commr. Stivender and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the execution of Proclamation 2005-64 designating the month of May 2005 as “Law Enforcement Month.”

DISCUSSION OF COUNTY MANAGER POSITION

By consensus, the Board agreed to add a discussion on how to proceed with hiring a new county manager to the agenda for the Board Retreat which is scheduled for May 20, 2005, at Trout Lake Nature Center, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER POOL – DISTRICT #2

ALEXANDER ELROD

Commr. Pool announced that he attended a ceremony yesterday honoring young Mr. Alexander Elrod, a fourth-grader at Lost Lake Elementary School. Lake County Fire Rescue presented Alexander with a Special Recognition of Courage Award for his quick thinking and action while a car was burning in his neighbor’s driveway.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HANSON – DISTRICT #4

GREEN BUILDING SEMINAR

Regarding a recent “green building” seminar (Lake County Sustainability Seminar, April 22, 2005), Commr. Hanson remarked that staff may be working on an ordinance to bring back to the Board on “green building” that would set forth the County’s resolution to require that our buildings at least meet a certain standard for “green building” through the Green Building Coalition, looking at incentives in the County for buildings that are green-built, whether they be public or private.

Responding to an inquiry by Commr. Cadwell regarding incentives, Commr. Hanson remarked that some incentives have been mentioned which would take Board approval. Other municipalities have looked at such incentives as waiving building fees and fast tracking. She stated that an incentive has to affect the bottom line. In doing so, it also becomes more cost effective to the end user. She noted that the City of Gainesville and Sarasota County have done a lot of “green building” and research will be done on their ordinances and resolutions to see what might work for Lake County.

FOLLOW UP ON MOUNT PLYMOUTH-SORRENTO FRAMEWORK STUDY

Commr. Hanson stated that she has asked the Interim County Manager to work to provide funding for a mini charrette that would follow up on the Mount Plymouth-Sorrento Framework Study that was done a couple of years ago, perhaps using the same company (Miller Sellen Conner & Walsh) to do a concept design and bring it before the community, the Chamber of Commerce, the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento Planning Advisory Committee, and others in the community. The market square concept should be looked at as County Road 437 is extended to the south in Mount Plymouth, possibly including an elementary school, a small park, a library/community center and a walkable and bikable community.

Commissioners Pool and Cadwell suggested that this issue might fall under the realm of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council.

Commr. Hanson suggested that a two day charrette might cost about $2,000.

LAKE COUNTY ELDER AFFAIRS SYMPOSIUM

Commr. Hanson reminded everyone of the second annual Elder Affairs Symposium which will be presented by the Lake County Elder Affairs Coordinating Council. The event will be held Thursday, May 5, 2005, at Lake Receptions, State Road 19A, Mount Dora, Florida., at 9:00 a.m. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m.

Commr. Hill announced that Ms. Robbie Hollenbeck, Special Projects Coordinator, Lake County Department of Community Services, had an article published in the May/June 2005 issue of Elder Update, a bimonthly newspaper published by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. The title of her article is “NOW IS THE TIME: Lake County Elder Affairs Coordinating Council Promotes Communities for a Lifetime.” (The article is available online at: http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us )

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER – DISTRICT #3

PROCLAMATION – NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

On a motion by Commr. Stivender, seconded by Commr. Hanson and carried unanimously, by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation 2005-65 proclaiming May 5, 2005, as National Day of Prayer in Lake County.

COMMISSIONERS

At 10:40 a.m., Commr. Cadwell left the meeting.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER (CONTINUED)

Ms. Linda Rozar, Lake County National Day of Prayer Coordinator, stated that the theme for the 2005 National Day of Prayer, the 54th observance, is “God shed His grace on thee.” She extended an invitation to an early morning countywide prayer observance at Leesburg Christian Center on May 5, 2005, 7:00 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. The City of Leesburg will have a gathering from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Most of the city halls will be holding some type of observance.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER HILL (CONTINUED)

VOLUNTEER RECEPTION

Commr. Hill reminded everyone of tonight’s reception honoring Lake County’s volunteers. It will be held at Lake Receptions, State Road 19A, Mount Dora, Florida, at 6:30 p.m.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER STIVENDER (CONTINUED)

CINCO DE MAYO

Commr. Stivender reminded everyone to attend the Cinco de Mayo celebration in Mascotte, Florida, Saturday, May 7, 2005, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:45 a.m.

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JENNIFER HILL, CHAIRMAN

ATTEST:

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JAMES C. WATKINS, CLERK