A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

November 5, 2013

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 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:  Leslie Campione, Chairman; Jimmy Conner, Vice Chairman; Timothy I. Sullivan; Sean Parks; and Welton G. Cadwell.  Others present were:  David Heath, County Manager; Sanford A. “Sandy” Minkoff, County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager, County Manager’s Office; Neil Kelly, Clerk of Court; Barbara F. Lehman, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Susan Boyajan, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION and pledge

Mr. Jim Briggs of the Baha’i Group of Lake County gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Agenda update

Mr. Heath stated that there was an addendum to the Consent Agenda from Community Services that was issued on Friday dealing with compensation for a sewer spill.  He then requested that Tabs 22 and 27 which both pertained to the North Hancock Road project be heard together.

Employee awards

Ms. Christina Brandolini, Employee Services Director, presented the following employee awards:

FIVE YEARS

Jeffrey Anderson, Firefighter/EMT (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Russell Crites, Equipment Operator II

Public Works/Maintenance Division

 

Gary Gratz, Firefighter/EMT

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Mary Hamilton, Environmental Services Division Manager

Public Works/Environmental Services

 

Bobby Horn, Firefighter/EMT (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Michael Keeney, Firefighter/Paramedic (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Patryk Lesniewski, Firefighter/Paramedic (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Jason Liska, Firefighter/Paramedic (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

David Manes, Firefighter/EMT (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

 

Matthew Stowell, Firefighter/EMT (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Michael Zipperer, Firefighter/Paramedic (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

FIFTEEN YEARS

Michell Bass, Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Amy Bradford, Transportation Representative

Community Services/Public Transportation Division

 

Frank Carattini, Firefighter/EMT (not present)

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Tracey Dougherty, Network Technician

Information Technology/Information Systems Division

 

Steven Ellis, Firefighter/EMT

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Kelly LaFollette, Communications Director

Communications

 

Timothy Roe, Firefighter/EMT

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

Paul Rogers, Fire Lieutenant/EMT

Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division

 

TWENTY YEARS

Mr. Jim Stivender, Public Works Director, presented the following award, commenting briefly about his service to the County:

Richard Miller, Sign & Striping Technician I

Public Works, Traffic Operations

 

Resolution honoring donna gregory

On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Cadwell, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved Resolution No. 2013-118 honoring Ms. Donna Gregory.

Commr. Campione read aloud and then presented a copy of Resolution No 2013-118 to Ms. Donna Gregory in honor of her contribution to and retirement from the Health Department.

MINUTE APPROVAL

On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Cadwell, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of September 10, 2013 (Regular Meeting) and October 4, 2013 (Special Meeting) as presented.

Citizen Question and Comment Period

Mr. Vance Jochim, a resident of Tavares and writer of a blog about fiscal issues, expressed concern regarding the lack of discussion over the County spending $49,000 in dues for the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council in Tab 14.  He also expressed his concern regarding the bid for the contract that was to be awarded in Tab 20 in the amount of $413,000 for construction materials and engineering services.  He suggested that the Board have the contracts reviewed, possibly by an auditor, because the contractors did not have to compete on price.

Commr. Parks explained that the County was required by statute to be a part of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council.

Commr. Cadwell stated that the Board had stopped participating in some things involved with the Planning Council because the Governor had vetoed funding assistance for it.

Commr. Campione commented that they would still incur costs if the participating counties were to get together instead of participating in the Planning Council.  She then noted that in regards to Tab 20, Public Works was keeping close tabs on the contracts.

Mr. Heath commented that staff had followed statute regarding the contracts for Tab 20 and he noted that the proposals and a summary of the evaluations of the procurement committee were included in the agenda backup.

CLERK OF COURTS’ CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Sullivan and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Clerk of Courts’ Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 3, as follows:

List of Warrants

Request to acknowledge receipt of list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 (1) of the Florida Statutes, which shall be incorporated into the Minutes as attached Exhibit A and filed in the Board Support Division of the Clerk’s Office.

Lake County Water Authority Final 2014 Budget

Request to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Lake County Water Authority’s Final Budget for 2013-2014 along with transmittal letter of same dated October 10, 2013.

Lands Available List

Request to acknowledge receipt of property placed on the Lands Available List.  Lake County has until January 6, 2014 to purchase property from the Lands Available List before it is available to the public.

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 4 through 20 and including Addendum I.A.1. as follows:

Community Services

Request to approve the Second Amendment to Restated Agreement between Lake County, Florida and LifeStream Behavioral Center, Inc. for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 (NSP3). There is no fiscal impact.

Request to approve the Amendment to the Minneola Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Urban County Agreement. There is no fiscal impact.

Economic Development

Request to approve a High Value Job Creation (HVJCP) Award in the amount of $26,000 for the creation of ten (10) qualifying positions and approval and signature on the HVJCP Program Agreement with Captive-Aire Systems, Inc. and the Lake County Board of County Commissioners.  The fiscal impact is $26,000 (expense).

Request to approve an award up to and not to exceed $25,000 to Captive-Aire Systems, Inc. for the creation of five qualifying positions and approval and signature on the Business Assistance Incentive Program Agreement with Captive-Aire Systems, Inc. and the Lake County Board of County Commissioners.  The fiscal impact is $25,000 (expense).

Request to approve the new Tourist Development Council (TDC) Events Sponsorship Policy.  There is no fiscal impact.

Request to approve the sponsorship application from the National Golf Association (NGA) to bring a professional golf tournament to Lake County once a year for three years.  The fiscal impact is $10,000 per year (expense).

Fiscal and Administrative Services

Request to approve the payment of the aiSmartBench software invoice for the Clerk’s office for software used to facilitate the paperless mandate from the Florida Supreme Court; also requesting approval of the related budget transfer. The fiscal impact is $28,848.00 (expenditure).

Growth Management

Request for authorization to advertise a public hearing to amend Sections 22-8 and 22-10 of the Lake County Code to delay the payment of impact fees for commercial and industrial uses from the issuance of the building permit until the issuance of the certificate of occupancy.

Request to approve Resolution No. 2013-128 responding to Leesburg Resolution 9271, initiating the process pursuant to Section 17.203 F.S. for negotiating an Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement.   There is no fiscal impact.

Request to approve Resolution No. 2013-129 responding to Tavares Resolution 2013-15, initiating the process pursuant to Section 17.203 F.S. for negotiating an Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement.  There is no fiscal impact.

Request to approve payment of invoice to ECFRPC in the amount of $49,084 (previously approved in Budget).

Public Resources

Request to approve contract 14-0202 for construction of a new Restroom/Concession building at North Lake Community Park to CPWG, Inc. (Valrico/Clermont, FL).  The fiscal impact is $295,450 (Expenditure)

Request to approve the use of "Out of Session" operating hours for Cooper Memorial Library when classes are not in session at Lake-Sumter State College.   There is no fiscal impact.

Public Works

Request to approve and authorize the Chairman to execute a satisfaction and release of lien for one special assessment.  There is no fiscal impact.  Commission District 5.

Request to approve the Traffic Signal Maintenance Amended Agreement with the City of Mascotte. On July 11, 2006, Lake County entered into an agreement with the City of Mascotte for Traffic Signal Maintenance. The parties now desire to amend the existing Agreement to update it with no changes in signals maintained.  The fiscal impact is $2,076.26 (Revenue).  Commission District 2.

Request to approve the Traffic Signal Maintenance Amended Agreement with the City of Mt Dora. On July 27th, 2005, Lake County entered into an agreement with City of Mt Dora for Traffic Signal Maintenance.  The parties now desire to amend the existing Agreement by an update. The County is transferring ownership to the City of the traffic signal at the following location: US 441 & Morningside Drive.  The fiscal impact is $42,046.89 (Revenue).  Commission District 2.

Request to approve contract 14-0006 for CEI (Construction Engineering and Inspection) services, materials testing, and post-design engineering services for Alfred Street one-way pair, to Tierra, Inc. The fiscal impact is $413,538 (Expenditure).  Commission District 3.

Addendum I.A.1.

Request from Community Services for approval for the Chairman to endorse checks from Homeowners Choice Property & Casualty Insurance Company, Inc. in the amounts of $22,567.82 and $6,784.05.  These monies were received on behalf of Timothy Davis, SHIP fund recipient, for damages sustained due to plumbing and sewer issues at his property located at 1877 Strathmore Circle, Mount Dora.  There is no fiscal impact to the County.

Presentations

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Commr. Campione stated that she accepted an invitation to go to Orlando to tour the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts which was currently under construction.  She explained that the invitation had been part of an outreach program to neighboring communities to acquaint them with what was happening in Downtown Orlando and help encourage involvement in the project.

Ms. Cyndi Putnam, Vice President of Marketing at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, gave a presentation on the performing arts center.  She stated that the Center would be reaching out to Lake County as a neighboring community for the events as well as for education outreach.  She commented that there would be a total of three theaters, with construction completed in two phases, and in 2014 they would be opening the large Walt Disney Theater, which would have 2,700 seats and would be home to Broadway and some of the larger productions that the Center would hold, as well as a 300-seat community theater that would be open for family shows, educational programs, and other community efforts.  She stated that the Center had good rental packages that they were working on which would include a package for non-profit organizations to rent the facilities.  She remarked that the Center was trying to establish a performing arts center that was not seen as elitist and was an active part of the community, and their mission was to provide an inspirational and creative place where people love to be and love to work.  She remarked that they had strong leadership through their Board of Directors as well as community leaders and elected officials, and there was ongoing communication to the surrounding communities, other performing arts partners, and media relations.  She reported that the first phase of the project was completely funded and would be opening in 2014, but they still needed to raise $36 million to complete funding for the second phase and be able to break ground.

Ms. Putnam commented that they were projecting that almost 7,000 jobs would be created because of the Center, noting there were currently 200 construction workers on site, and she estimated that there would be approximately $714 million in economic impact for the region.  She stated that they had conducted peer reviews on the design and operations in an attempt to perfect their model and create what they hoped would be one of the premier performing arts centers in the world.  She added that other peer reviews had been conducted on the technology that would be used, the back of the house, food and beverage, and performing arts and other art groups around the region.  She reported that the facility took up two city blocks in Downtown Orlando across from the Orlando City Hall and would be comprised of three theaters, education and rehearsal facilities, an outdoor performing plaza, and mixed use development.  She commented that the lobby of the facility would service all three theaters.  She displayed images of the floor plans for the first and second stages of the facility and a map of Downtown Orlando showing where parking would be located.  She then displayed a short movie showing a computerized rendition of what the completed facility would look like.  She discussed the programing and operations, stating that the three resident companies were Broadway, the Philharmonic, and the Ballet and adding that they would also have other events encompassing all aspects of the performing arts.  She commented that children and family programing were going to be important, and she noted that one of the educational programs would bring in workshops from the larger theater companies.  She mentioned that they had 10,000 square feet of space dedicated to performing arts education.  She reported that the Center’s philanthropy team had raised $106 million to date and that 92 percent of the entire project was funded.  She invited everyone to come and tour the construction site.

Commr. Parks asked how the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts ranked nationally.

Ms. Putnam replied that the Center was 36th in the world, with multiple theaters being a defining factor in what denoted a world-class performing arts center.

Commr. Campione asked how the traffic would work on Magnolia Avenue.

Ms. Putnam replied that traffic would flow as usual on Magnolia Avenue, but the road would be closed between Anderson Street and South Street during larger shows or multiple shows.

Commr. Cadwell commented that having the Center was an asset and would help with recruiting businesses to come to Lake County.  He asked if any studies had been conducted on how many additional hotel rooms this would spur in the Downtown Orlando area as opposed to along International Drive.

Ms. Putnam replied that a study had been conducted, but she did not have the results with her right now.  She commented that people would stay longer because of the performing arts center being there.

Commr. Cadwell asked what would happen to the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center.

Ms. Putnam replied that the City of Orlando owned the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center and that the Dr. Phillips Center’s management was in negotiations with the City to take over management of the Bob Carr.  She related that the ballet and Philharmonic would continue to be held at the Bob Carr until phase two was finished at the Dr. Phillips Center and that they would be booking other performances in the Bob Carr during their management of it, and the management contract would go back to the City after three years.

North Hancock Road Project

Mr. Fred Schneider, County Engineer, Public Works, addressed the Board to present an update on the North Hancock Road Extension Project.  He specified that the project extended from Old Hwy 50 North past Lake Minneola High School, which was the County Commission’s funded part of the project, to the new Florida Turnpike Interchange that was going to start construction next year, and then on to CR 561A.  He recapped that the North Hancock Road Extension and the proposed Turnpike Interchange within the City of Minneola had been discussed and planned for approximately 10 years, and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has agreed to fund $30 million for the proposed Interchange which would begin construction in October 2014 and open to traffic December 2016.  He noted that the PD&E studies and final design for the project have been completed.  He commented that the FDOT required that the North Hancock Road Extension Project had to take place or they would not fund the Interchange.  He mentioned that the BCC has funded a segment of North Hancock Road from CR 50 to north of Lake Minneola High School and Fosgate Road at an estimated cost of $9.8 million, and that the Hills of Minneola DRI has agreed to fund $10 million to build two lanes from the interchange north to CR 561A.  He displayed maps of the different segments of the road project.  He explained that Segment 1 was the County Commission’s segment to be funded, Segment 2A was to be funded by the Turnpike, Segment 2B would be funded by the Hills of Minneola DRI, and Segment 3 was to be funded by the FDOT.  He related that construction on Segment 1 would begin in September 2014 and should be completed by December 2016.  He related that the total overall investment by the BCC for Segment 1, which was about 1.5 miles in length, was $10,660,000, and all of the right of way from Segments 2A, 2B and Segment 3 had been donated by the Hills of Minneola DRI.  He stated that there were 22 parcels of right of way for Segment 1 that the County had to acquire for the road project, and the cost to date was $619,445.  He added that the remaining parcels to acquire were at an estimated cost of between $800,000 and $1.2 million, and eminent domain was necessary to complete the right of way acquisition prior to June 2014 for the Turnpike scheduling requirement.

Mr. Schneider mentioned that the Turkey Farm Road Modification Project would convert Turkey Farm Road into a local neighborhood road with a cul-de-sac at the north end, and there would be a tie-in between Turkey Farm Road and North Hancock Road along with other modifications which would greatly reduce the cut-through traffic.  He mentioned that there would still be traffic on Turkey Farm Road going south, so staff was looking at some speed limit changes on Turkey Farm Road as well as other means to reduce that volume of traffic.  He added that staff was also looking at an overall traffic evaluation of that area, including a discussion with School Board staff about the potential for students walking to school.  He stated that there would be a paved multi-use trail that pedestrians could take to the traffic signal and all the way north to the high school.  He added that the traffic study would also look at whether the traffic signal should be removed completely or be changed to a push-button signal for pedestrians.  He stated that the total project cost for North Hancock Road and the Turnpike Interchange was budgeted at $50 million.  He requested that the Board approve resolutions instituting eminent domain proceedings for acquisition of property for the North Hancock Road Extension Project and proceeding with pre-suit negotiation offers.

Mr. Minkoff stated that there were 11 resolutions attached to Tab 27, and he anticipated that they would use the quick-take procedure for these parcels because of the short timeframe for right of way.  He noted that the resolutions were in the agenda backup and that the offer letters were ready to go.  He stated that he anticipated filing by the first of December and hopefully getting an Order of Taking hearing sometime in March or April.  He reported that the County Attorney’s Office was handling the litigation in-house.

Mr. Schneider stated that the County had acquired two homes previously from willing sellers, so there would not be any impacts as far as homes currently being occupied.

On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the following resolutions instituting Eminent Domain proceedings for acquisition of property for the North Hancock Road Extension Project and to proceed with pre-suit negotiation offers:  Resolution No. 2013-130 for Orlando National Bank-Bridger & Shea, Resolution No. 2013-131 for Vandenbemden, Resolution No. 2013-132 for Simmons, Resolution No. 2013-133 for Lopez, Resolution No. 2013-134 for Vickram, Resolution No. 2013-135 for Hibiscus Homes (Big Sky), Resolution No. 2013-136 for Hussain, Resolution No. 2013-137 for Chester C. Fosgate Company, Resolution No. 2013-138 for Singh, Resolution No. 2013-139 for Varlea, and Resolution No. 2013-140 for Ramdahein.

COUNTY MANAGER’S DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS

PUBLIC WORKS

UPDATE REGARDING LAKE ENTERPRISE ZONE

Ms. Amye King, Growth Management Director, addressed the Board to provide an update on the Lake County Enterprise Zone as required by Ordinance No. 2011-58.  She recapped that the Enterprise Zone locations were Eustis, Leesburg and Mascotte.  She stated that the benefits associated with the Enterprise Zones included state incentives such as jobs credit, property tax credit, community contribution tax credit, jobs credit against the sales tax, child care facility property tax exemption, and sales tax exemption for building materials, business equipment, and electrical energy used.  She added that there were also local incentives available for each of the cities.  She reviewed the Enterprise Zone Development Agency (EZDA) and its responsibilities such as monitoring the implementation of the Agency’s goals; giving an annual review and update; providing monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports; recommending ways to remove barriers; identifying needs and resources for businesses; assisting in promoting incentives; recommending boundary changes as needed, and working with nonprofit consulting organizations, Enterprise Florida, Inc. and state offices.

Ms. Sue Cordova, Enterprise Zone Development Agency Chairman, addressed the Board to discuss the accomplishments of the Agency.  She reported on the general accomplishments of the Agency such as how the EZDA members attended more than 20 meetings to inform citizens about the Enterprise Zone and met with local real estate agents to inform them about the Enterprise Zone as well as the resources and incentives available.  She stated that one of the EZDA’s major goals was to increase awareness of the incentives available as well as increasing employment opportunities and capital investment.  She commented that sometimes it was easier to do this with current businesses, but an established business would not be able to take advantage of incentives if they were not aware of what the EZDA was doing or what incentives were available.  She mentioned that County and municipal staff, along with EZDA members, met with or assisted over 100 business owners and citizens and handed out over 1,000 Enterprise Zone brochures.  She remarked that the County and municipalities had done well with streamlining some of their processes including commercial and industrial online permitting within the County.  She mentioned that the Land Development Regulations were barriers to advancement, so changes had been made to them to encourage development and redevelopment.  She added that a webpage and brochure had been created that explained the incentives and advantages of being within the Enterprise Zone.  She reported that the City of Eustis funded a full payment voucher initiative for business tax receipts for all businesses within the Eustis portion of the Enterprise Zone.  She mentioned that the City had created the Palmetto Plaza on The Avenue which would provide a weekly farmer’s market type experience along with other activities and events and were planning on a market grand opening on Wednesday, November 6, 2013.  She noted that there were 17 vendors already signed up, and the ultimate goal was for 50 percent to be food and/or plant vendors, 45 percent to be homemade or household goods vendors, and five percent to be educational vendors.  She reported that the City of Leesburg had just approved a new budget amendment that put $851,120 over the next three years towards improvements to the Carver Heights Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) which was located within the Enterprise Zone.  She added that the CRA implemented its Business Retention and Attraction Guidance Grant (BRAGG) program which was designed to finance up to $5,000 in technical assistance for eligible companies seeking technical assistance to enhance their new or existing company.  She reported that the City of Mascotte had received and was using a CDBG Infrastructure Grant to build a sewer line located within the commercial corridor in the Enterprise Zone.

Ms. King mentioned that Ms. Anita Greiner, Chief Planner for Growth Management, had been managing this program and built a good rapport with the State.  She reported that the next steps were to transition the incentive program to Economic Development, continue to identify and recruit targeted industries, meet with existing businesses, meet with real estate agents, develop and strengthen law enforcement relationships with business owners as well as property owners and stakeholders, and see to the placement of signs identifying the Enterprise Zones.  She requested the Board accept the report as presented by staff.

Commr. Sullivan remarked that a lot of progress had been made by the EZDA and it was a better fit with what the County wanted to accomplish to have the management of the program moved to the Economic Development department.

Commr. Campione recognized Ms. Dianne Kramer, Acting City Manager for the City of Eustis, who was present in the audience.  She added that she would be visiting the Farmer’s Market tomorrow.

On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Conner and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the annual Enterprise Zone report as presented.

Public safety

Update regarding automatic aid agreements, fire station improvements,  and automatic vehicle location system

Mr. John Jolliff, Fire Chief and Public Safety Director, addressed the Board to provide an update on Fire Station No. 14 in Altoona and Fire Station No. 90 in Clermont and to provide an update on the progress of establishing a County-wide Automatic Aid Response Agreement.  He recapped that of the 24 fire stations in Lake County, 17 were Advanced Life Support (ALS) Stations and three of them were designated as Special Ops Stations.  He noted that there were three platoon systems that ran 24/7 with 62 personnel distributed across the 24 stations, and that the front-line fleet consisted of 17 fire engines, 1 aerial, 3 squads, 14 tankers, 19 brush, and 5 special utility vehicles.  He reported that a lot of work had been done over the last 18 months towards renovations and ongoing projects at the existing fire stations including mold mitigation at the Leesburg, Astor and Four Corners fire stations; modifications at existing fire stations in Grand Island and Bassville Park; and a cosmetic update with the Lady Lake fire station.  He remarked that the Altoona station had existing ingress and egress issues on SR 19, and a new strategically located station had been planned since 2007; also, the Clermont station was currently in a temporary location at the Value Place Hotel which had operational and security issues, but they wanted to continue to maintain a presence in that area.  He stated that the County Manager had charged the Facilities Director with evaluating both locations.

Mr. Kristian Swenson, Facilities and Fleet Management Director, discussed Fire Station No. 14 located on SR 19 in Altoona.  He stated that the station had been leased for free from the Lake County School Board since 1981, it only cost the County the price of insurance, and the contract required a one-year notice for lease termination.  He reported that there was general disrepair to the building due to age; there were floor plan issues such as the front door not being ADA accessible, there was no ADA accessible path into the building; the front door opened into the sleeping quarters; the roof leaked; the septic system drain field was undersized and had failed; and vehicle parking was insufficient for modern fire trucks.  He displayed some pictures of the previously mentioned conditions.  He listed three options to address the issues at Station No. 14, which were to repair some existing building issues, conduct a major remodel and expansion of the existing station, or construct a new station.  He commented that repairing some existing building issues such as repairing the roof, septic tank, and some general age issues would be easy enough, but it would not fix the issues of public/ADA entry, vehicle parking, or the floor plan and the County could not use Fire Impact Fees to fund the repairs, which were estimated at $100,000.  He remarked that conducting a major remodel and expansion of the existing station would involve completely remodeling the interior of the existing station as well as constructing a stand-alone 2,100 square foot garage, would include repairs for the roof and septic tank, and address general age issues, public/ADA entry issues, and vehicle parking.  He mentioned that there would be a shared entry with the Lake County School Board for garage access, which could create possible traffic congestion or conflict with school busses and the public.  He stated that the County could partially fund the project through Fire Impact Fees and estimated the cost at $650,000.  He reported that the option to construct a new station was the recommended option and would involve constructing a new 4,200 square foot fire station including garage using a newly created, scaled-down prototype design on a County-owned site.  He commented that it would solve the existing operational issues, allow for future expansion, and could use Fire Impact Fees for all improvements.  He estimated the cost between $850,000 and $950,000.  He stated that the proposed location for the new station was on County-owned property located to the east of the intersection of CR 42 and SR 19, and he proposed that the site could house a communications tower in addition to the station to replace a leased site for the current communications tower in that area, which would be more cost-effective for the County.  He displayed the proposed floor plan for the fire station, which would be a single-story building about half the size of the Lake Gem station.  He estimated it would take a little more than a year to design and construct the desired building, and the next steps would be to contact one of the on-call architects to design the building and site and then bid construction of the project should the Board approve the construction of a new station.

Commr. Cadwell asked if there would be space if they needed to locate ambulance at the proposed new fire station in Altoona.

Mr. Swenson replied that there would not be room for ambulance.  He commented that there was one bunk room in the proposed floor plan, but that it was not a fixed plan, and if the Board wanted to put ambulance at that station, then accommodations could be made to the floor plan.

Commr. Parks asked if there would be room for ambulance if the remodel option was chosen instead of building a new station.

Mr. Swenson replied that there could possibly be room, but it could conflict with the school busses accessing the site.

Commr. Cadwell commented that they had originally looked at remodeling that station, but there was not a lot of value left in the building.  He added that the proposed new station would not affect the coverage area and would provide better access for the fire trucks without the possible conflict from school busses.

Mr. Richard LeBlanc, Architect IV for Faculties and Fleet Management, addressed the Board to discuss Fire Station No. 90 in Clermont and site alternatives for this station.  He stated that the two site alternatives were to either locate the station at the Sheriff Substation or to co-locate the station in partnership with the City of Clermont.  He recapped that fire personnel were currently located at the Value Place Hotel, and he commented that commercial land within that corridor was expensive.  He mentioned that Site Alternative 1, which was onsite with the Sheriff Substation, would involve providing a new driveway connection to allow the fire station and the Sheriff’s Office to access the signal light at Great Hill Road, constructing a 1,700 square foot modular building with truck canopy on the west end of the property, and providing the necessary water and sewer connections for the station.  He estimated the total project cost to be $416,000 and the total timeline for completion to be between 26 and 36 weeks.  He mentioned that multiple sites for Site Alternative 2, which was to co-locate with the City of Clermont for the fire station location, were being discussed and the station would serve both Lake County and the City of Clermont.  He stated that the next steps would be to proceed with the negotiations of the driveway easement and the design of the driveway, and to report back on the location and the partnership with the City of Clermont.

Mr. Heath explained that they were originally going to request for the Board to approve going forward with the modular unit on the Sheriff’s substation, but Mr. Carle Bishop, Fire Chief for the City of Clermont, had indicated to Chief Jolliff after a meeting on Friday with the City of Clermont that they were looking at buying a site and so he thought it was best to explore the option of co-location with Clermont before moving forward with the modular unit at the Sheriff’s substation.

Commr. Cadwell commented that Site Alternative 1 was for property the County already owned and was an inexpensive way to create a functional station.

Commr. Parks commented that Site Alternative 1 had been discussed for a while, and he opined that they needed to move forward with setting up the modular station at the Sheriff’s substation where the County already owns the land.

Commr. Conner asked Chief Jolliff if the substation and the proposed Clermont property were in a central location that was accessible or in a more remote area compared to what would be optimum.

Chief Jolliff replied that the Sheriff’s substation was not in the best location and would be better further east, but they had been unable to find property to the east.  He stated that the proposed Clermont property would keep the station in the same area as the Value Place Hotel, and although it was not the optimum spot, it was farther east than the Sheriff’s substation.

Commr. Conner commented that he would be hesitant to move forward at this time with the modular station at the Sheriff’s substation when it was not the ideal spot to serve the public.

Commr. Parks commented that the co-location with the City of Clermont could delay the relocation of Station No. 90 by a couple years.

Commr. Sullivan commented that improvements to the driveway and access to Hwy 50 were a part of the Sheriff’s substation site alternative.  He suggested that the Board move forward with that part of the project, because it needed to be done regardless of whether or not the fire station ended up there.

Commr. Cadwell replied that he agreed with Commr. Parks but opined that the County putting a fire station in at the Sheriff’s substation would not stop the City of Clermont from putting a fire station in next door.  He stated that he agreed with moving forward on the improvements to the driveway and access to Hwy 50, but then they needed to sit down with Clermont and discuss options.

Commr. Campione asked how much the County spent to utilize the hotel space right now.

Mr. Jolliff replied that the County spent $1,200 per month.

Commr. Campione asked if the modular building could be used in another location, and she indicated that she agreed that they should move forward with the driveway issue and that they should talk with the City of Clermont regarding co-location.

Commr. Parks stated that he appreciates that staff was working hard towards intergovernmental coordination.

Commr. Campione suggested that the Board move forward with the driveway and then receive an update in three months regarding the talks with the City of Clermont.

Mr. Heath stated that he would schedule a meeting with Mr. Darren Gray, City Manager for the City of Clermont, and Chief Bishop.  He opined that the County should opt to move forward with the Sheriff’s substation site alternative should the project with the City of Clermont look like it was going to take several years and noted that staff could report back in January.  He then stated that the second part of the presentation pertained to a status report on the Automatic Aid Agreement.

Chief Jolliff recapped that the Golden Triangle area had come forward with a proposal in December 2012 regarding an Automatic Aid Agreement, the Board held a work session in February 2013 and directed staff to look at the feasibility of a countywide Automatic Aid Agreement, and County staff had begun discussion with the cities in March 2013.  He stated that the components of the Automatic Aid Agreement involved a fire rescue criteria within the ISBA agreement, looking at the computer-aided dispatch run cards, and looking at an Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) System to have the closest vehicles respond.  He reported that the fire rescue component of the proposed interlocal agreement addressed having a centralized dispatch and compensation for emergency responses for medical and fire issues, and he mentioned that the agreement had been drafted, distributed to the cities, and was now under review.  He explained that currently every agency had a different computer aided dispatch run card a different prescribed response to a specific type of call which included such details as how many vehicles to send in response to the call, and the proposed agreement provided for an efficient and consistent run card that standardized the response to specific calls.  He explained that the AVL System used GPS, allowing dispatch to track the closest unit on screen, and using this system would improve dispatch and the emergency response within the County.  He stated that staff wanted to implement a phasing plan that would initially involve the County and Lake EMS, and then the cities would be added as they signed up.  He remarked that the request for proposal (RFP) had been drafted and was ready to go, should the Board approve the AVL system.  He related that the County would purchase the AVL system, the cities would provide the ongoing maintenance and costs, there was funding available in the Fire Impact Fees, and the estimated initial cost for the County was $100,000.  He requested that the Board proceed with the Altoona and Clermont projects, continue to work with the cities on improving the response system, and move forward with the procurement of the AVL system.

Mr. Heath commented that the Lake EMS staff had been an asset in their involvement and assistance with the Automatic Aid Agreement and its components.

Commr. Campione agreed that the AVL system would be beneficial to the County even if the cities opted not to participate.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Sullivan and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved moving forward with the relocation and construction of a new station for Fire Station No. 14 in Altoona and to move forward with negotiations for the driveway easement and design of the driveway for the Sheriff’s substation in Clermont.

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Sullivan and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved moving forward with the procurement of the Automatic Vehicle Location System.

RECESS AND REASSEMBLY

The Chairman announced at 11:00 a.m. that there would be a ten-minute recess.

Other business

Appointments

Capital facilities advisory committee appointment

On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the appointment of Mr. Jim Miller to the Capital Facilities Advisory Committee as the Chamber of Commerce representative to serve an unexpired two-year term ending August 2, 2014.

Lake-Sumter MPO Citizens’ Advisory Committee appointments

On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the reappointment of Mr. Stephen Ferrel for District 1 and the appointment of Mr. Ted Wicks for District 3 and Mr. Richard Nelson for District 5, as members to the Lake-Sumter MPO Citizens' Advisory Committee to serve two-year terms ending December 31, 2015.  The Board also approved the appointment of Jamie Hanja for District 4 to serve the remainder of an unexpired two-year term ending December 31, 2014.

reports – county attorney

Discussion regarding property located at 22051 O'Brien Road, Howey-in-the-Hills

Mr. Minkoff recapped that the County rented an approximately 10,000 square foot office building on O’Brien Road in Howey-in-the-Hills.  He noted that the property was located in the middle of a 75-acre parcel with the building and the driveway taking up a few of those acres.  He stated that it had been put into the lease that the County would have the right of first refusal should the landlord put the property up for sale, and a few months ago the landlord had offered the entire property to the County for sale at a good price.  He mentioned that there was another large building on the property, but he reported that the County Manager had not been able to come up with a use that would justify the County purchasing the property.  He related that the landlord initially sold the property without complying with the term of the lease giving the County the right to purchase it by selling it as part of a deal with a larger property in Orlando.  However, he stated that after the County had made the purchaser aware of the breach of the lease, the landlord offered to sell the County the building at what he claimed was the same price they paid for it.  He explained that the price the purchaser was offering was what they had paid for the entire property and not just the building, and he opined that the lease would allow the County to purchase the entire 75-acre parcel which was about a $1.5 million purchase.  He remarked that it was probably a good value for the purchase but because the County could not determine a need for it, the County Manager would have to give his opinion on that option.  He stated that they would most likely end up in litigation should the County try to force that sale, because the County and the purchaser were in disagreement on the property.  He reported that the building was a sound building, though there were some issues that the County had been fixing and taking out of advanced rent, and he surmised that the County had not actually paid a rent payment on the building because of this.  He added that there were some additional problems with the building such as air quality problems that will need to be repaired.  He commented that the users of the building were not happy with the facility, and the County had the ability to terminate the lease immediately because of the breach, or they could terminate with a 12-month notice, which would be a better option since right now there was no place to move the 40 to 50 people currently working in the facility.  He requested direction from the Board as to whether the County should purchase the building and some surrounding acreage, purchase the entire 75-acre parcel, or elect to terminate the lease and find another location over the next 12 months.  He pointed out that staff advised against purchasing the building or the entire parcel.

Commr. Campione stated that she would support terminating the lease and finding another location.

Mr. Heath explained that the lease was initially attractive because the County only had to pay $100,000 per year and could take the funds out of the sales tax, and so the County had looked at moving different departments to that site but none were appropriate for the location.  He commented that the attractiveness of the site decreased when the seller only offered to sell only the building, and he opined that this option was not prudent given the current state of the sales tax fund.

On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Sullivan and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved terminating the lease with 12- month notice of intent to terminate and to work with the current user of the building to find a new location.

reports – county manager

Agreements to restore service to Lynx Bus Routes 55 and 204

Mr. Heath reported that his staff had worked with the County Attorney’s Office to draft agreements to restore service to Lynx bus routes 55 and 204.  He stated that the draft agreements had been sent to Lynx two weeks ago, and he had executed the agreements yesterday.  He noted that the contracts were to be considered by the Lynx governing board on November 14, and that would be followed by a public hearing on November 26 at the community center in Clermont regarding the fare increase.  He explained that it was planned so that Commr. Parks or Commr. Sullivan could attend the public hearing.  He stated that both routes would resume on December 1.  He reported that the County would post updates online to keep users of those bus routes informed.

Commr. Cadwell asked whether a delay of Route 204 would also cause a delay of Route 55.

Mr. Heath replied that it would cause a delay for Route 55 and that the contract provided for both routes to resume on December 1.

Commr. Cadwell commented that some of the riders of Route 204 had switched to using a vanpool, and he was not sure how that would affect the ridership of that route.

Commr. Campione requested that the update specify the things that need to happen in order for the routes to resume on December 1.

REPORTS – COMMISSIONER SULLIVAN – DISTRICT 1

Goodwill clothing drive

Commr. Sullivan commented that the clothing drive has been very successful and thanked everyone for their time and effort. He also mentioned that the Chamber of Commerce was involved in that.  He added that the clothing drive had been extended until Friday, November 8th.

reports – commissioner parks – district 2

Sale of synthetic marijuana to minors

Commr. Parks expressed concern about synthetic marijuana being sold in convenience stores to children, commenting that synthetic marijuana and bath salts were actually marketed to kids through the packaging.  He mentioned that he had worked with the County Manager, the County Attorney, and the Sheriff’s Office and came up with a potential ordinance that was being utilized in other parts of Florida that banned the sale of that substance.  He asked that staff bring that ordinance back as an agenda item in the future for discussion about advertising that kind of ordinance for Lake County.  He added that the Sheriff would testify as to the extent of the problem the substance was for the County.

Commr. Cadwell commented that the proposed ordinance would make it illegal to sell the substance, but he did not want to criminalize its use by children.

Mr. Minkoff replied that the proposed ordinance would make it a civil violation and would be aimed at the sellers, not the people possessing or using it.

Commr. Parks commented that the ordinance would be helping the Sheriff’s Office in controlling the use of the substance.

Mr. Heath clarified that Commr. Parks was requesting a work session and then follow-up with an approval to advertise the same day.

Mr. Minkoff stated that the Sheriff’s Office had indicated that they would assist because Code Enforcement had a limited number of officers, and the cases would go before a special master.  He explained that it was hoped that the threat of the fines to the seller would get them to remove the item from their shelves.  He added that it was illegal to sell some of the synthetic marijuana substances, but the companies changed the formula as soon as it was specified which chemical in the substance was classified as illegal.

Parks Advisory Board Update

Commr. Parks presented photographs that were shown at the Parks Advisory Board meeting yesterday, commenting that the field shown was being used by a lot of residents.

Vista del Lago Road Issue

Commr. Campione asked whether Commr. Parks was going to have a meeting at Vista del Lago on a road issue.

Commr. Parks responded that he had met with the president and vice president of the Home Owners’ Association, and they did not want to meet or have a workshop to discuss the reopening of Vista del Lago, so he was trying to strategize that issue to determine the best way to address it.

Commr. Campione commented that the original plan had been for Commr. Parks to reach out to that community to discuss the issue, but if they were not open to holding this meeting then perhaps Commr. Parks could organize his own meeting.

Commr. Parks reiterated that the Home Owners’ Association was not interested in having a meeting.

reports – commissioner conner – district 3

Meeting Regarding Solid Waste in Hawthorne

Commr. Conner reported that the meeting in Hawthorne regarding solid waste went very well and was well attended by about 225 people.  He added that staff had a special presentation specifically for Hawthorne residents, and he read letters from residents stating that they found the presentation to be direct and informative.

reports – commissioner cadwell – district 5

Discussion regarding county advisory committees

Commr. Cadwell remarked that after looking at the information that was brought forward and talking with Mr. Heath, he was not offering any changes right now to the policy regarding commissioner liaisons and staff involvement in County Advisory Committees and that he was not suggesting that they do anything different at this time.

Stuff the Bus Food Drive

Commr. Cadwell commented that the Stuff the Bus food drive at Walmart in Mount Dora received good participation despite the rain that day.

beach volleyball at Hickory Point Park

Commr. Cadwell reported that he met with Mr. Mike Perry from the Lake County Water Authority (LCWA) regarding beach volleyball at Hickory Point Park, who asked to give him time to talk to his membership, and he and staff would make a presentation on this matter at the LCWA November 20th meeting.

REPORTS – COMMISsIONER campione – CHAIRMAN & DISTRICT 4

funeral service for Captain Joe Dragojevich

Commr. Campione related that she attended the funeral service for Captain Joe Dragojevich on Monday, October 28th. She commented that Lake County had tremendous representation there and noted that Captain Dragojevich had served 15 years with Lake-Sumter EMS and Lake EMS.

Request from Sheriff regarding transfer of funds

Commr. Campione relayed that the Sheriff had asked for the Board to put on their next agenda the transfer of the funds that he returned to them last week so that he could give his employees a raise or bonus similar to what the County had done.

Mr. Heath responded that they had scheduled a public hearing for November 19, 2013.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 11:47 a.m.

 

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leslie campione, chairman

 

 

ATTEST:

 

 

 

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NEIL KELLY, CLERK