A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
December 1, 2015
The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 1, 2015 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: Jimmy Conner, Chairman; Sean Parks, Vice Chairman; Timothy I. Sullivan; Leslie Campione; and Welton G. Cadwell. Others present were: David Heath, County Manager; Melanie Marsh, County Attorney; Wendy Taylor, Executive Office Manager; Neil Kelly, Clerk of Court; Kristy Mullane, Chief Deputy Clerk, County Finance; and Victoria Bartley, Deputy Clerk.
INVOCATION and pledge
Pastor Brooks Braswell gave the Invocation and Sheriff Gary Borders led the Pledge of Allegiance.
state of the county and inductions into women’s hall of fame
Women’s Hall of Fame
Commr. Conner introduced his fellow commissioners and recognized the constitutional officers and other governmental officials that were present. He related that the next order of business was to have the annual inductions into the Women’s Hall of Fame. He recapped that the Board had created the Lake County Women’s Hall of Fame in 1995 to honor those who had made monumental achievements in Lake County within the fields of art, agriculture, business, community service, the environment, government, health care, humanities, philanthropy, science, and education. He elaborated that outstanding leaders have been nominated by friends, relatives, and the community as they grace the walls in Chambers, and that they now welcome Ms. Lynn Bain into this prestigious group of citizens who have made a positive impact on Lake County. He mentioned that her dinner theatre programs had been for the benefit not only for the students, but their parents as well.
Mrs. Bain said that she was deeply humbled and honored to receive this award. She commented that it was a blessing to be recognized and rewarded for what has been her passion for her entire career as a teacher. She thanked the many people who had helped her conduct the dinner theatre program over the years. She opined that she will always love the sense of community she felt at Tavares Elementary and in the greater community of Lake County. She stated that she hoped she was able to touch the hearts and lives of her students through the joy of music and performing arts.
Commr. Conner presented Ms. Bain with a plaque inducting her into Women’s Hall of Fame.
State of the County
Commr. Conner explained that the State of the County highlights all of the things that they have done over the past year in the form of a video.
The video’s narrator reported that the Lake County Board of County Commissioners has worked together this year to solidify Lake County’s future through smart fiscal planning, a bold approach to economic development, and a clear vision of the County’s unique tourism potential. He stated that Lake County’s leaders have lowered the tax rate, welcomed new businesses, and invited visitors to experience the County’s quality of life through conservative, cost-saving initiatives and modern, visionary marketing. He highlighted some of Lake County’s most celebrated and notable accomplishments of 2015. He related that the Commission is focused on creating a prosperous local economy supported by a wide range of career opportunities, a diversified tax base, and an exceptional quality of life. He mentioned that Lake County had established a merger earlier this year between Growth Management and Economic Development and Tourism to form the Economic Growth Department. He noted that the department had been created with the goal of providing streamlined service and a clear, singular message regarding the County’s business-friendly approach, under the direction of County Manager David Heath. He relayed that in February, Lake County Economic Growth had assisted with the $1.5 million dollar expansion of Quietflex, a Texas-based company that nearly doubled its Groveland HVAC manufacturing facility, adding six pieces of equipment and hiring 25 new employees. He remarked that the City of Leesburg had welcomed Coreslab, one of the nation’s leading pre-cast concrete providers, to 470 Commerce Park, a new 80,000 square-foot-facility that will bring up to 100 jobs to the area and provide an $8 million dollar capital investment.
The narrator submitted that Lake County Tourism launched its 2015 Marketing Campaign this past year under the trademarked branding “Real Florida. Real Close.” with ads featuring the area’s unique ecotourism attractions splashed across Atlanta billboards, the Visit Florida website, and on Pandora. He commented that Lake County’s natural habitats have also been viewed nationwide on popular television shows such as “Birding Adventures TV” with James Currie, which highlighted wildlife at the North Lake Apopka Restoration Area and “How to Do Florida” with host Chad Crawford, which depicted hiking and camping in northeast Lake County. He specified that all of these advertising efforts point back to the County’s new tourism website, visitlakefl.com, which received nearly 20,000 unique visitors and more than 85,700 page views since its launch in April. He announced that with 1,400 named lakes and seven of the top 11 lakes for number and size of bass fish in Florida, fishing has been identified as one of the County’s top niche tourism markets. He recounted that in order to boost bass fishing in Lake County, Tourism had sponsored professional fisherman Tim Frederick, who participated in nine professional tournaments in a Tourism-branded boat and jersey, with logos and art that had been designed in-house. He added that Lake County had sponsored the Oakley Big Bass Tour for the second consecutive year on the bountiful Harris Chain of Lakes and that the event has grown by 40 percent over last year. He remarked that the Florida Regional of USA Volleyball had hosted the only U.S. stop for the NORCECA International Sand Volleyball Tournament at Hickory Point Sand Beach volleyball complex in Tavares this summer. He explained that the major sporting event had brought in top athletes from 16 different countries, with an economic impact of $150,000 for the County. He reported that in an effort to further support and engage Lake County’s many tourism partners, the County had held the second annual Lake County Tourism Forum in Clermont in February. He noted that this premier business-to-business event encouraged networking between tourism business leaders, government agencies, and chambers of commerce.
The narrator relayed that the Commissioners had identified the penny sales tax as their top priority early this year, and in November Lake County citizens took to the polls to approve the tax with 71 percent of the vote. He clarified that future projects paid for through these funds will include sidewalks, public safety equipment, park and road improvements and other infrastructure needs. He related that Lake County had completed the third and final phase of a series of refinancing deals that allowed the County to lower its debt service and save taxpayer dollars this summer. He disclosed that the County had restructured and reduced its long term debt costs, resulting in a projected savings of $6.2 million over the term of the debt. He remarked that Lake County had received positive bond ratings from Fitch and Moody’s, two nationally recognized statistical ratings organizations, and that the County’s financial outlook was upgraded to stable. He declared that Lake County had also revised its budgeting process to include an extensive range of budget meetings and 19 public workshops, resulting in a transparent and comprehensive review and adoption of the County's budget, ending in a lower millage rate for 2016. He submitted that the Budget Office had proudly accepted the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2014 Annual Budget. He disclosed that in a continuing effort to strive for efficiencies and enhanced public safety countywide, Lake County Fire Rescue had signed Interlocal Service Boundary Agreements, or ISBAs, with the cities of Clermont, Leesburg, and Tavares. He explained that included in the ISBAs were automatic aid fire agreements, which state that the closest emergency unit responds to a call, regardless of jurisdiction and that these agreements save taxpayer dollars while improving response times. He noted that thus far, the County has six automatic aid agreements with Lake County municipalities. He reported that the Lake County Sheriff’s Office moved many of its offices to the Lake County Historic Courthouse in Tavares this year after a $1.4 million dollar renovation conducted by Lake County Facilities. He commented that the Lake County Historical Society Museum remained housed on the first floor of the 1922 building.
The narrator asserted that Lake County cared about the availability of its long-term resources, such as preserving the water supply, providing safe access to sidewalks and trails, and maintaining a reliable road network for commuters. He related that the South Lake Regional Water Initiative, led by Commr. Sean Parks had been awarded $600,000 by the Florida Legislature to pursue solutions to water issues in South Lake County. He explained that the Committee’s goal was to ensure that water is available for future generations, and that there is a good supply for growth and economic development. He relayed that Public Works had completed a new sidewalk along Eudora Road and retrofitted another in Sylvan Shores near Mount Dora as part of the Safe Access to Schools projects. He clarified that the project provided sidewalk connections from area neighborhoods to Triangle Elementary School and U.S. Highway 441, allowing students and pedestrians’ safe access. He noted that Public Works had also resurfaced a total of nearly 24 miles of roadway in 2015. He remarked that Lake County also remained focused on enhancing and expanding its interconnected trail network as another mode of transportation. He announced that in February, the County along with the City of Clermont cut the ribbon on the South Lake Trail Extension, a new three and a half mile portion that is a part of the Coast-to-Coast Connector, included two new pedestrian bridges, and included a bicycle trail spanning from St. Petersburg to Cape Canaveral. He related that residents were offered free rides on Lake County’s fixed route transit service, LakeXpress, during the “Real Rides, Real Destinations” campaign sponsored by reThink on May 14. He remarked that in July Lake County dedicated Cooper Memorial Library’s Go Zone Makerspace, which was the first of its kind among Lake County’s libraries. He explained that with a continuing concentration on STEM education, the Go Zone boasted a high-end computer for graphics and video editing, a large-format photo printer, a vinyl cutter, a 3D printer, a Robotics System kit, a green screen, and more. He related that in October stakeholders cut the ribbon on the long anticipated Altoona Community Center, which will be used for extra classrooms, a lunch area during school hours, and as a community center food distribution, elder activities, after-school functions, and civic clubs after hours and on weekends.
The narrator commented that the Children's Services Council had awarded more than $150,000 in grants to 14 nonprofit agencies, providing services to over 5,000 at-risk children this year. He mentioned that the County had also awarded Human Services grants totaling $47,500 to six nonprofit agencies, providing services to nearly 1,800 at-risk families and elderly citizens. He noted that the UF/IFAS Extension’s Competitive horse teams had made Florida 4-H history by winning first place in all three non-mounted State level competitions, and had been honored by the Board of County Commissioners. He reported that the Lake County Economic Development and Tourism Division and the Lake County Communications Department had accepted the Florida Festivals and Events Association’s “SUNsational” award for their work on the Wings and Wildflowers Festival’s social media pages. He announced that Commr. Welton Cadwell had been listed as a “Central Floridian poised to do big things” in Scott Maxwell’s Orlando Sentinel column “15 to Watch in 2015.” He added that as Chairman of the Central Florida Expressway Authority, Commr. Cadwell was described as a “down-home, no-nonsense Commissioner from Lake County” who is expected to bring integrity to the Expressway Authority. He disclosed that Mr. Robert Chandler, director of Lake County’s Economic Growth Department, had been added to the 2015 40 Under 40 class, a list that recognizes Central Florida’s top professionals under the age of 40 who have made significant achievements in their career.
The narrator submitted that the Lake County Board of County Commissioners had honored 61 volunteers who have contributed over 150 hours of service this year. He clarified that more than 300 citizens had volunteered upwards of 24,000 hours, equating to about 12 full time positions with an estimated cost savings of over $193,000 to the County. He commented that Commr. Leslie Campione had spearheaded the successful launching of the Keep Lake Beautiful initiative and that Lake County had become an affiliate member of Keep America Beautiful. He remarked that around 130 volunteers had collected nearly six tons of litter and debris during the County’s inaugural cleanup event, hosted simultaneously in Groveland, Leesburg, and Sorrento. He noted that 60 volunteers regularly participated in the County’s Adopt-a-Lake program, cleaning up waterways and shorelines, picking up litter and removing invasive snails. He submitted that Discovery Gardens had hosted dedication ceremonies introducing two new gardens this year. He remarked that their new Water-Wise Garden demonstrates efficient ways to irrigate while conserving water through micro-irrigation, the drip tap technique, and a properly calibrated irrigation system and that their herb garden was used to teach the Cooking with Herbs class during the Central Florida Landscape and Garden Fair.
The narrator relayed that Lake County staff had organized Water Safety Day events in six cities in an effort to prevent child drownings. He related that Water Safety Day had been conceived by Commr. Sean Parks and had been so successful that it resulted in the creation of the Water Safety Advisory Board, which is a permanent committee whose goal is to teach water safety year-round. He mentioned that thanks to significant media exposure and rising local popularity, the 4th Annual Wings and Wildflowers Festival had its most successful year to date, and had offered a host of eco-friendly activities such as field trips, nature hikes, boat rides, and bird watching expeditions in key wildlife viewing areas. He concluded that the Lake County Board of County Commissioners remained committed to preserving the integrity and character of Lake County, while unleashing its potential as a destination for businesses to flourish; tourists to stay, play, and dine; and most importantly for families to live and to grow.
Commr. Conner commented that their staff had done a tremendous job on the State of the County video, and he specifically thanked the Communications staff for all the work they put into the video. He noted that a community becomes united through unselfishness and teamwork, and that he has witnessed those qualities in this community over the past year.
Presentation of proclamation
Commr. Conner presented Dr. Kasey Kesselring with Proclamation No. 2015-123 in appreciation for his efforts regarding the reauthorization of the infrastructure sales tax. He read the proclamation as follows:
WHEREAS, KASEY KESSELRING IS ONE OF LAKE COUNTY’S MOST RESPECTED BUSINESS LEADERS; AND, WHEREAS, KASEY KESSELRING STEPPED FORWARD TO FORM A POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE TO EDUCATE VOTERS ON THE MERITS OF RENEWING THE INFRASTRUCTURE SALES TAX; AND, WHEREAS, KASEY KESSELRING’S LEADERSHIP AND VISION PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN THE SUCCESSFUL RENEWAL OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE SALES TAX WITH A RESOUNDING 71.41 PERCENT OF THE VOTE. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, THAT THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXPRESSES THEIR SINCERE GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION TO DR. KASEY KESSELRING FOR HIS UNPARALLELED LEADERSHIP IN OUR COMMUNITY.
Closing comments
Commr. Conner reiterated that the County’s bond ratings had been upgraded and that the County had gone from a negative to a stable rating. He declared that Lake County had the second lowest millage rates in the region and that the County’s total revenues for Fiscal Year 2015-2016 would be $36 million less than what they had been seven years ago. He noted that this was possible thanks to their proactive efforts, such as downsizing several departments and saving $6.2 million by refinancing their bonds. He thanked the Tax Collector, Mr. Bob McKee, for his outstanding work this past year. He mentioned that the County Chief Judge had also helped the County to save money as liaison to the constitutional officers on the courthouse renovation project. He thanked several staff members and other County personnel, including the Communications staff, the Clerk’s office, the Property Appraiser and his staff, the Sheriff, and the State Attorney for their accomplishments and help. He highlighted some of his fellow Commissioners’ accomplishments from the past year, such as Commr. Sullivan’s efforts on the penny sales tax renewal and publishing a veterans’ handbook for surviving spouses that outlines what benefits they are entitled to. He mentioned that Commr. Campione had done an admirable job combatting several untruths that the Commission had been confronted with. He specified that Commr. Cadwell was known for his fair treatment of people, which is highlighted by his unanimous election as Chairman of the Florida Expressway Authority. He noted that Commr. Parks’ work on the South Lake Water Initiative and the Wellness Way project was commendable. He asserted that Mr. David Heath’s presence as County Manager has enabled the Commissioners to their jobs better. He thanked all of the County employees for their hard work and dedication, in particular the Commissioners’ support staff. He opined that it had been an honor to serve as their Chairman and that he looked forward to the future.
Commr. Cadwell thanked Commr. Conner for his service as Chairman and for his leadership for the past two years.
recess and reassembly
The Board reconvened at 10:45 a.m.
election of chairman and vice chairman
On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Cadwell and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board elected Commr. Parks as Chairman.
Commr. Parks took the Chairman’s seat.
Commr. Campione commented that there had been an understanding that the Chairman and Vice Chairman would serve for two years due to continuities and several difficult issues that the Board had been dealing with a that time. She pointed out that there had been an understanding that Commr. Parks would then become Chairman, with Commr. Sullivan as Vice Chairman. She opined that Commr. Sullivan had worked hard over the past year and was a great team player. She nominated Commr. Sullivan as Vice Chairman.
Commr. Conner asserted that Commr. Sullivan had served the Board admirably and that his work on the penny sales tax had been exceptional. He noted that Commr. Cadwell had a great deal of experience, which was important for the Chairman to rely on. He nominated Commr. Cadwell as Vice Chairman.
Commr. Sullivan mentioned that they had discussed continuity the last year and that he would be honored to serve as Vice Chairman. He opined that teamwork was a vital part of serving on the Board. He asserted that he had learned much from Commr. Cadwell over the past three years.
With a vote of 3-2, with Commrs. Conner, Parks, and Cadwell voting against, the motion to elect Commr. Sullivan as Vice Chairman was denied.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried by a vote of 3-2, with Commr. Campione and Commr. Sullivan dissenting, the Board elected Commr. Cadwell as Vice Chairman.
EMPLOYEE AWARDS/BOARDS & COMMITTEE CERTIFICATES
Mr. Robert Anderson, Human Resources Director, reported that they would recognize citizens who have served on various Boards and Committees for the County, as well as employees who have reached significant milestones in their careers with Lake County. He presented the following Certificates Awards, commenting briefly on the recipient’s service to the County.
CERTIFICATES
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
Audrey Williams, for service from 2014-2015 (not present)
Machelle Koonce, for service from 2013-2015
Capital Facilities Advisory Committee
Carolyn Maimone, for service from 2013-2015
Library Advisory Board
Julia Nix, for service from 2009-2015 (not present)
Sales Surtax Oversight Advisory Committee
Barbara Lehman, for service from 2003-2015 (not present)
EMPLOYEE AWARDS
FIVE YEARS
Richard Miller – Equipment Operator I
Public Works/Road Operations Division/Special Projects
TEN YEARS
Justin Pouliot – Park Ranger
Public Resources/Parks & Trails Division
Michael Springer – Library Assistant I
Public Resources/Library Services Division/East Lake Library
FIFTEEN YEARS
Robert Armas – Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic
Public Safety/Fire Rescue Division
Aaron Chaddick – Network Administrator
Information Technology/Information Systems Division
Mr. Bill Veach, Deputy County Manager, presented the Quarterly Recognition Awards, commenting briefly on the recipient’s service to the County.
EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER – 4th Quarter FY2015
David Salinas – Operations Compliance Specialist
Public Works
T.E.A.M. OF THE QUARTER – 4th Quarter FY2015
KEEP LAKE BEAUTIFUL
Communications:
Elizabeth Heine
Kelly LaFollette
Paul Long
Elisha Pappacoda
Community Safety & Compliance:
Dennis Bunt
Scott Catasus
Jamie Davis
Stephanie Glass
Justin Null
Amanda Pentz
Brian Sheahan
Public Resources:
Robin Davis
Brook Miller
Brian Ramsundarsingh
Marcia Robinson
Public Works:
Eric Cantley
David Carroll
Mary Hamilton
Tina Lewin
Todd Myers
Don Murray
Prathabsingh Rajaram
Brandon Rogers
David Salinas
Jim Stivender, Jr.
Johnny Taylor
MINUTE APPROVAL
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Sullivan, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of October 20, 2015 (Regular Meeting) and November 9, 2015 (Regular Meeting) as presented.
Citizen question and comment
Mr. Vance Jochim, Financial Blogger, gave a brief recitation on the concept of cronyism. He asserted that the Boards’ decision to hire Gray Robinson as their lobbyist and some possible instances of “pay for play” related to the Penny Sales Tax fundraising efforts were examples of cronyism.
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 4, as follows:
List of Warrants
Request to acknowledge receipt of the list of warrants paid prior to this meeting, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 (1) of the Florida Statutes, which shall be incorporated into the Minutes as attached Exhibit A and filed in the Board Support Division of the Clerk's Office.
Draft Copy of Ordinance from the City of Fruitland Park
Request to acknowledge receipt of Draft Copy of Ordinance 2015-20 from the City of Fruitland Park amending the boundaries of the City of Fruitland Park in accordance with the procedure set forth in Section 171.044, Florida Statutes, to include within the City Limits approximately 164 ± acres of land generally located south of Urick Street and East of CR 468.
Copy of Ordinance from the City of Clermont
Request to acknowledge receipt from the City of Clermont of Ordinance No. 2015-70 which annexes a vacant parcel of land into the City Limits of Clermont. This Ordinance was adopted by the Clermont City Council on October 27, 2015.
Copy of the Proposed CRA Redevelopment Plan
Letter dated October 27, 2015 from the City of Clermont transmitting a copy of the proposed Clermont Community Redevelopment Agency “CRA Redevelopment Plan,” which will expand the CRA District and adopt an amended plan in accordance with Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, and giving the public hearing dates and times for same.
COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA
On a motion by Commr. Cadwell, seconded by Commr. Conner and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the County Manager’s Consent Agenda, Tabs 3 through 17 as follows:
Proclamations
Request approval of Proclamation No. 2015-124 recognizing January 18, 2016 as Dr. Martin Luther King Day, per Commissioner Parks.
Request for approval of Proclamation No. 2015-125 proclaiming January 24-29, 2016 as Children's Week, per Commissioner Parks.
Community Safety and Compliance
Request for approval to advertise an ordinance revising Section 9-13 of Lake County Code to clarify that the BCC, in lieu of the Clerk of the Court, shall receive, keep, and use fees for the operation and administration of Lake County's Teen Court Program. There is no fiscal impact.
County Attorney
Request for approval and execution of the Revocable Communications Equipment License for a Rooftop Antenna with Lake Square Mall Realty Management, LLC, Viaport, Florida. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to advertise an Ordinance amending Section 2-24, Lake County Code, regarding the Lake County Investment Policy. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to advertise an Ordinance amending Section 22-40, Lake County Code, entitled Transfer of Impact Fee Credits. There is no fiscal impact.
Economic Growth
Request for approval to close out the Smart Fuels Florida, LLC incentive account due to the closing of the business and inability to gather additional reporting documentation. There is no fiscal impact.
Public Resources
Request for approval to authorize the County Manager to exercise the second option period under contract 14-0410 for delivery and installation of beach sand at County parks awarded to Tom’s Playground of Central Florida, Inc. (Eustis, FL), with future extension options being exercised at the discretion of the County Manager. The current estimated annual fiscal impact is $50,000 (Expenditure).
Request for approval and signature of Facility Modification Agreement between Lake County, Florida and Lake Agriculture and Youth Fair Association, Inc. for the purpose of expanding the LaRoe Pavilion by fifty (50) feet. There is no fiscal impact.
Public Safety
Request for approval of a purchase order to Clifton's Tower Service and Motorola to be processed by Human Resources/Risk and Benefits for replacement parts and services at the Minneola Countywide Radio Communication Tower due to a lightning strike. The fiscal impact is $30,961 (Expenditure).
Public Safety
Request for approval of participation in 2015 E911 State Grant Program to request legacy 9-1-1 Recorder replacement. If awarded grant funds, final funding requests will be brought back to the Board for approval. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to award Contract 16-0401 to DesignLab, Inc. (Tavares, FL) for provision of Public Safety uniforms, and authorize the procurement office to execute all supporting documentation. The annual estimated fiscal impact is $107,000. All purchases will be completed in the form of allowances provided to individual firefighters.
Public Works
Request for approval to release a maintenance bond in the amount of $56,038.41 posted for Johns Lake Landing Phase 1. Johns Lake Landing Phase 1 consists of 1 lot and is located south of SR 50 off of Hartle Road in Section 26, Township 22 South, Range 26 East. There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 2.
Request for approval to accept the final plat for Greater Lakes Park, and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Greater Lakes Park plat; accept a maintenance bond in the amount of $41,211.19; execute a Developer's Agreement for Maintenance of Improvements Between Lake County and Home Dynamics Sawgrass, LLC, and execute Resolution No. 2015-126 accepting the following road into the County Road Maintenance System: Champlain Street “Part” (Co. Road No. 0357K). The Greater Lakes Park Plat consists of a recreational park for the Greater Lakes Subdivision and is located south of Clermont, off US Highway 27 in the Four Corners area, in Section 11, Township 24 South, Range 26 East. There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 1.
Request for approval to release a performance bond in the amount of $86,295.00 that was provided for the construction of sidewalk in the Citrus Highlands Phase II subdivision. Citrus Highlands Phase II consists of 82 lots and is located off US 27 in the Four Corners area in Section 23, Township 24 South, Range 26 East. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval to accept the attached list of public right of way deeds that have been secured in conjunction with roadway and/or stormwater projects. There is no fiscal impact. Commission Districts 2, 3, 4, 5.
Request for approval to release a Letter of Credit for maintenance in the amount of $9,845.00 associated with a Development Agreement between Lake County and Equity Leesburg, LLC regarding Radio Road Retention Pond. The retention pond is located within the Emerald Pond subdivision, along Radio Road just south of Treadway School Road, in Leesburg. There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 3.
Request for approval and signature of Department of Agriculture (DACS) Amendment 1 amending local funds transferring $4,000 from Gasoline/Oil/Lube (Line Item 52.1) into the Repair & Maintenance (Line Item 46) related to Mosquito Control Program. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval and signature on Resolution No. 2015-127 authorizing the reduction of the speed limit from 55 MPH to 45 MPH on CR 448A (3064) in the Lake Jem area, Commission District 3. Section 25, Township 20, Range 26. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval and signature for Resolution No. 2015-128 authorizing the installation of the "STOP" signs with “All Way” plaques on Morning Star Drive (0162B) at its intersections with Rolling Green Drive (0162C) and Hidden Springs Drive, (0162E), Section 26, Township 24, Range 26 in the Clermont area. There is no fiscal impact.
Request for approval of amendments to four (4) operating lease agreements between Highland Tractor Company and Lake County for various pieces of John Deere machinery used by the Solid Waste and Road Operations Divisions of Public Works to allow assignment of said leases by Beard Equipment Company (Mobile, AL), which has purchased Highland Tractor Company, effective November 1, 2015. The estimated total annual fiscal impact is $313,952.76 (Expenditure).
Request for approval to accept the final plat for Royal Equestrian Ranch Club II and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Royal Equestrian Ranch Club II plat. Royal Equestrian Ranch Club II is a replat of 6 lots within the Royal Equestrian Ranch Club plat and adds an additional 10+/- acre conservation easement tract. It is located off of CR 474 in the Four Corners area, Section 21, Township 24 South, Range 26 East. There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 1.
Request for approval to advertise an Ordinance to amend Article III, Chapter 18, Lake County Code, entitled Special Assessments. The amendment to the Ordinance serves to establish a set interest rate at prime plus two percent, and over a ten year period. The amendment also brings the Code into alignment with the current special assessment process. There is no fiscal impact.
DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS
rezoning consent agenda
Mr. Chris Schmidt, Manager of Planning and Community Design, Economic Growth Department, submitted the advertisements for that day’s rezoning public hearings on the overhead monitor. He noted that Consent Agenda Items 1 and 2 had been approved unanimously by the Planning and Zoning Board and the staff recommendation was for the Board to approve those items.
The Chairman opened the public hearing regarding the Rezoning Consent Agenda.
There being no one who wished to address the Board regarding this rezoning case, the Chairman closed the public hearing.
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Sullivan, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Rezoning Consent Agenda Items 1 and 2, as follows:
Tab 1. Ordinance No. 2015-42
Rezoning Case #RZ-15-21-4
Iglesia Adventista DeSorrento/
Florida Conference of Seventh Day Adventists
Tab 2. Ordinance No. 2015-43
Rezoning Case #CUP#11/5/1-5
Lewis J. Norman/Sharon & Ronald Clifton
CUP Revocation
Public Hearing for ordinance adoption
Commr. Parks explained that this was the first Public Hearing for the adoption of an ordinance amending Chapter III and Chapter X, Land Development Regulations, to include provisions that allow and regulate Temporary Portable Storage Containers. He noted that the ordinance would also prohibit cargo and shipping containers be used as accessory structures in residential zoning districts.
Ms. Melanie Marsh, County Attorney, mentioned that they were also requesting authorization to hold the Second Public Hearing of the proposed Ordinance at 9:00 a.m., rather than in private session. She placed the proposed ordinance on the floor for reading by title only as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA; AMENDING LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAKE COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, CHAPTER II, ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS”, TO CREATE DEFINITIONS RELATED TO TEMPORARY PORTABLE STORAGE CONTAINERS, AMENDING CHAPTER III, LAKE COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED “ZONING DISTRICT REGULATIONS”, TO CREATE SECTION 3.14.00, ENTITLED “TEMPORARY PORTABLE STORAGE CONTAINERS: AND TO AMEND CHAPTER X, LAKE COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED “ACCESSORY AND TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND USES”, SECTION 10.01.01 “GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSORY STRUCTURES” TO PROHIBIT CARGO CONTAINERS IN RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR FILING WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
There being no one who wished to address the Board regarding this issue, the Chairman closed the public hearing.
On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Conner, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board authorized the Second Public Hearing of the proposed Ordinance to be held at 9:00 a.m.
CareerSource Central Florida Presentation
Mr. Robert Chandler, Economic Growth Director, explained that CareerSource was 1 of 24 workforce Boards in Florida, oversees a multitude of workforce related initiatives and programs, and was an integral part of Lake County’s economic development strategy. He noted that Commissioner Campione sat on the CareerSource Board. He related that CareerSource Central Florida was the Regional Workforce Board serving Orange, Osceola, Lake, Sumter, and Seminole counties.
Ms. Pam Nabors, President and CEO of CareerSource Central Florida, gave a presentation on CareerSource’s highlights for 2014-2015, Lake County partnerships, and information specific to Lake County. She reported that CareerSource Central Florida develops strategies to help Central Floridians enter and advance in the workforce, as well as prepares Central Florida residents for present and future workforce needs. She mentioned that CareerSource Central Florida was the second largest Regional Workforce Board in Florida and oversaw all public workforce initiatives, such as the US Department of Labor Workforce Programs, Veterans Employment Services, and Talent Development Initiatives; oversaw One Stop Career Centers, which included 6 CareerSource Central Florida Full Service Career Centers, 1 Satellite Center, and 2 Mobile Career Centers; and oversaw the primary funding sources, such as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Wagner Peyser, SNAP, the TANF Program, and the TRADE Adjustment Act. She specified that the CareerSource Central Florida pillars were to Collaborate, Innovate, and Lead. She displayed on the monitor a breakdown of the committee structures, which included committees for Audit, Program Review, Governance, Community Engagement, Finance, and Executive, all under the purview of a Board of Directors.
Ms. Nabors displayed a list of the 2014-2015 highlights and successes, which included having met and exceeded their business performance goals, having met and exceeded their federal workforce performance benchmarks, implementing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and creating a business engagement plan and sector strategy. She detailed some of the coming year’s goals, which included to implement the Business Engagement Plan, align service delivery to meet regional business needs, to meet and exceed performance benchmarks, hold a Strategic Board Retreat, hold a Regional Business Summit, continue technology improvements to service delivery, develop new plan for full WIOA implementation, and to hold a National Association of Workforce Development Professionals Convention in Orlando. She displayed several charts on the monitor detailing the distribution and expenses by County for FY 2014-2015 and indicated that Lake County had contributed $3,536,645. She noted that CareerSource had served over 920 businesses and that 864 businesses were receiving recruitment or training services.
Ms. Nabors reported that the Lake Career Service Model consisted of one full service CareerSource Central Florida Career Center in Leesburg, one Career Service Manager, two Business Consultants, fifteen career staff members, and two veteran business/career consultants. She mentioned that their Lake County educational partners included Lake/Sumter State College, Lake Technical College, the University of Central Florida, and the Southern Technical Institute. She detailed some of the accomplishments of the program, including what organizations they had helped and what events they had hosted to help fill positions with qualified applicants. She stated that CSCF had conducted 11 hiring events and 40 outreach events in Lake County since January 2015. She recounted CSCF’s Mobile Unit traveled to locations all around Lake County, such as at Cagan’s Crossing, Lake-Sumter State College, the Leesburg Campus, Lake-Sumter State College, South Lake Campus, and the Memorial Community Library. She related that there were two youth providers serving Lake County, Henkles and McCoy, which is co-located at the Leesburg Career Center and Lake Tech, and ResCare, which is currently looking for new location in Leesburg. She displayed on the monitor a chart of the Work Force Investment Act activities for FY 2014-2015 and indicated that there were 146 active job orders open and available in Lake County for a total of 176 positions. She concluded that CareerSource was ready to implement the new legislation and were excited to be a part of the Lake County community.
Commr. Campione voiced her appreciation for all the work CareerSource had accomplished, such as their veteran job placement services. She asserted that CareerSource was a wonderful asset to Lake County and that they will strive to give them more opportunities to continue to help the community. She opined that organizations that help to train the workforce are the key to attracting businesses.
Mr. Chandler explained that the existing Interlocal Agreement had been revised to reflect new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. He reported that the State of Florida was requiring all regions to update and that the City of Orlando, Orange County, Seminole County, Osceola County, and Sumter Counties were also party to the agreement. He noted that there were no material changes to the agreement. He asserted that it had been determined in 2011 when the CareerSource Board was reestablished that one representative from each county’s accounting department would sit on the Audit Committee to provide greater oversight. He relayed that this gives counties greater connection and input into audit process. He stated that Ms. Barbara Lehman had been Lake County’s appointee prior to her retirement and that staff was requesting that Ms. Kristy Mullane, Chief Deputy Clerk, be appointed to the Audit Committee. He concluded by stating that the requested action was for the Board to approve the revised Interlocal Agreement between Lake County and CareerSource Central Florida and to approve the appointment of Ms. Mullane to the CareerSource audit committee to replace Barbara Lehman.
On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Conner, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the revised Interlocal Agreement between Lake County and CareerSource Central Florida and appointed Kristy Mullane to the CareerSource audit committee.
Employee Medical Center RFP Request
Mr. Heath stated that they were looking into the feasibility of an employee clinic. He explained that the Board had made several changes to the medical plan during the budget process and that they have not yet seen the results of those reports. He clarified that Commr. Conner was suggesting that they postpone making a decision until they can determine if plan designs are practical. He remarked that staff is requesting authorization to move forward with an RFP and that after the procurement process is completed, the Board will have much more information with which to then make a decision.
Commr. Conner opined that he did not think that they could afford a clinic and that it would be premature to do an RFP at the moment, since the changes had only recently been implemented and they had not received any progress reports yet.
Commr. Campione pointed out that both the Sheriff and the School Board used employee clinics. She asserted that she was looking forward to learning more about the idea and exploring what possibilities and savings are available to the County.
Commr. Cadwell remarked that he had wanted to discuss this possibility for years.
Commr. Sullivan commented that he shared Commr. Conner’s concerns about the cost, but advised that this was a long term process and that they needed to start now if they are going to pursue the project. He noted that the cost of health care is an issue that everyone is struggling with.
Mr. Robert Anderson gave a presentation on Employee Medical Centers. He stated that Lake County manages a self-funded medical plan for its employees and their dependents. He relayed that the plan covers the many organizations in Lake County, including the Board of County Commissioners, Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization, Supervisor of Elections, Property Appraiser, Water Authority, Tax Collector, Lake Emergency Medical Services, and the Clerk of Court. He reported that plan membership included an average of 1158 EE participants (all entities), including approximately 595 Lake County BCC employees and an average of 2746 total plan members including dependents. He mentioned that employees are allowed to make election changes during the plan year (October 1 through September 30 of each year) if they have a qualifying event and also during Open Enrollment which takes place each year during the month of July. He related that the County has two medical plan options of an HMO or a PPO plan, both of which are provided through Florida Blue. He noted that the HMO and PPO networks include Lake County hospitals and physicians as well as providers state-wide and national. He displayed a graphic breakdown of the costs for the plan, which included 70.9 percent in claims, 16.8 percent in reserves, and 12.3 percent in other costs. He explained that the medical plan is funded through employee contributions towards premiums, employee co-pays and deductibles, and employer contributions. He displayed several graphs on the monitor illustrating the revenue versus expenditure for 2011-2015, the estimated claims payments for 2011-2017, the estimated fund balance 2011 - 2017, and the amount in reserves as a review the FY 2015 budget work session. He reported that on May 5, 2015, the BOCC approved the several changes to the medical plan, which included a change in the plan design, increasing employee premium contributions by 10 percent, and increasing employer contributions. He specified that in addition to these changes, the Board had also directed staff to examine the possibility of opening an Employee Clinic. He displayed a graph on the monitor highlighting the projected funding for FY 2016 after implementing the plan changes in 2016.
Mr. John Robinson, president of Robinson Bush Consulting, explained that Employee Medical Centers are offered by an employer as on-site or near-site clinics with Single Employer or Multi-Employer clinics. He noted that management of services would be run by third party management companies or by local providers. He outlined the reasons in favor of having an Employee Medical Center, which include that it reduces medical and pharmacy costs, enhances productivity, improves access to care, improves health of members, creates better integration of medical services, and coordinates occupational health and employment related services. He remarked that customary services provided by Employee Medical Centers included primary care needs, urgent care needs, health management services, laboratory and minor radiology needs, occupational health needs, dispensing of common medications, and employment-related medical services. He explained that the two most common models for operating an Employee Medical Center are the Management Company Model and the Local Provider Model.
Mr. Robinson clarified that with the Management Company Model, staff works for the Management Company; the employer is responsible for facility costs; the employer reimburses Company for all staff, materials, medications, and supplies; and the employer pays an administrative fee to Management Company. He added that advantages to the Management Company Model were that the employer has a fixed cost for the Employee Medical Center, there is usually no cost to the member, it involves little paperwork, there is a high percentage of generic drugs dispensed, it has a lower health plan cost, and the County has indemnification protection from the management company. He mentioned that some disadvantages with the Management Company Model were the convenience of location(s) needed to serve the members, the cost of facility and administration, and a perception of non-confidentiality. He explained that by contrast with the Local Provider Model, primary care provider facilities are utilized, the access to care is enhanced, care is coordinated and integrated by providers, and the employer pays an office visit fee as well as pays incentives based on improved medical outcomes. He specified that advantages to the Local Provider Model included integration with the health plan, additional incentive payments to providers based on outcomes, a larger selection of providers, and that members may not need to change providers. He noted that disadvantages included that the employee clinic was not exclusive to the County, that there was usually a cost per visit for members, the tracking of incentives and the possible cost of incentives, that appointment times may not be convenient, and that medications dispensed are through health plan.
Mr. Robinson submitted that the Lake County Sheriff's Office, the City of Leesburg, the City of Mt. Dora, and Lake County Schools all used the Management Company Model. He related that Florida Hospital, Osceola Schools, and Florida Blue network clinics in select areas used the Local Provider Model. He outlined the characteristics of a successful Employee Medical Center, which included enhanced access to primary care services, convenient location and hours of operation, personalized visits for continuous and comprehensive care, whole person orientation, and coordination and integration of care. He advised that the expected results of operating an Employee Medical Center were increased use of critical benefits and services, modifications of identified services, measurement of savings, improved health outcomes, and member and County satisfaction. He commented that the expected results of the increased use of critical benefits and services included increased Primary Care visits; increased age and gender specific screenings; increased condition specific compliance, such as with glucose control, weight management, hypertension control, and cholesterol control; and increased pharmacy compliance for generic use and medication adherence. He relayed that expected results for modification of identified services included reductions in Specialty care visits, reductions in Emergency and Urgent Care visits, reduction in health plan cost and claims trend, and redirection of outpatient hospital services, such as with surgeries and radiology. He reported that the expected results for measurement of savings and outcomes were the identification of the cost of the care with the cost of the Medical Center, services, and office visits; the identification of the health plan savings, such as modifications of identified services, increased screening and condition specific compliance, member and County satisfaction, and performance guarantees. He remarked that the typical funding for the Management Company Model came from a management administrative fee, while the County owns the facility and pays all expenses. He clarified that the typical funding for the Local Provider Model came from an office visit charge with outcome incentives for providers. He displayed on the monitor a chart of the estimated cost of services for the Management Company Model and indicated that the total cost for year one would be $830,000 and would be $980,000 for year two.
Mr. Anderson submitted three options for the Board’s consideration. He related that the first option would be to conduct an RFP for an Employee Medical Center that would be open to both models and would include ROI guarantees in the RFP. He reported that a second option would be to partner with another local government entity and noted that other entities may have a need for an additional patient clinic. He relayed that a third option would be to continue to monitor the situation and take no additional action. He highlighted the dates for the next steps for implementation of the Employee Medical Center on October 1, 2016, beginning with the RFP development upon Commission approval on December 1, 2015 and ending with Commission Action on recommendation in May of 2016. He concluded by requesting that the Board authorize staff to proceed with the RFP for an Employee Medical Center.
Commr. Campione clarified that ROI guarantees are an assurance that a particular model will facilitate a certain amount of the cost dropping. She specified that it would be the employee’s choice whether or not to utilize the clinic as an alternative healthcare option.
Mr. Anderson clarified that a certain level of participation is needed for the ROI guarantees to be accurate, such as a certain amount of visits.
Commr. Campione opined that it sounded like a wonderful model that would be convenient for the employees, while providing whole person care. She voiced her support for authorizing the RPF for both models.
Mr. Heath mentioned that the employer contribution will only increase, in regards to the third option of continuing to monitor the situation. He pointed out that, in regards to the second option, the Sheriff’s clinic was almost at capacity, and that a clinic would take two or three years to get fully implemented. He asserted that they had suggested the full RFP in order to be open and transparent with their intentions.
Commr. Cadwell emphasized that the RFP would be open to both models and suggested that they move forward with it. He specified that the wording should leave room for any innovative solutions that they may not have considered.
Mr. Heath replied that it was for that reason that they had recommended an RFP, rather than an invitation bid.
Commr. Cadwell related that it was important to provide the choice for employees. He pointed out that their employees will recognize that their contribution will have to increase otherwise.
Commr. Sullivan noted that this will facilitate change in how they purchase healthcare and that they will not see savings if they do not have cooperation from the employees. He remarked that the RFP process will give them more information as it progresses.
Commr. Cadwell advised that this decision did not lock them into the project, but that they need to do their due diligence and find ways to save their employees’ additional healthcare costs.
Commr. Conner commented that he would concede to the recommendation of the other Board members, but was still concerned that it would not show them the savings that they are hoping for.
Commr. Parks inquired if the possibility of reaching out to the other cities would still be included in the RFP.
Commr. Campione replied that including other cities may make the process more complicated, but that this was a constantly evolving concept that is improving as it continues. She asserted that pursuing their own RFP would allow them to see all the available options.
On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Campione, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board authorized staff to proceed with RFP for an Employee Medical Center.
Public Safety Coordinating Council Appointment
On a motion by Commr. Sullivan, seconded by Commr. Conner, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Ms. Iris E. Clas to the Public Safety Coordinating Council as the Representative from the County and State Jobs Programs and other Community Groups who work with Offenders and Victims to complete an unexpired four-year term ending July 12, 2017.
Parks, Recreation, and Trails Advisory Board Appointment
On a motion by Commr. Conner, seconded by Commr. Sullivan, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the appointment of Ms. Kelly Price to the Parks, Recreation, and Trails Advisory Board as the District 2 Representative to complete an unexpired two-year term ending May 20, 2017.
reports – commissioner sullivan – district 1
Lake County Legislature days
Commr. Sullivan related that the Lake County Legislature days in Tallahassee had been very productive.
REPORTS – COMMISsIONER campione – DISTRICT 4
events attended
Commr. Campione thanked the Chamber Alliance and the League of Cities for their work during the Lake County Legislature days. She commented that the new lobbyist that they had retained had done great work during the legislative days as well. She relayed that the Governor had released his budget, which included capital funding for two charter schools, one of which is located in Lake County.
Shared Services Network Executive Round-Table meeting
Commr. Campione reported that she had attended the Lake County Shared Services Network Executive Round-Table meeting on behalf of Commr. Cadwell and that it had gone well. She mentioned that the meeting had honored Dr. Mojock by providing a $500 scholarship in his name to Leadership Lake County to a deserving Shared Services partner.
lake EMS Board agenda topic addition
Commr. Campione suggested that they add a topic for discussion to the Lake EMS Board agenda, concerning possibly exploring some organizational changes that may help to achieve savings in the area of emergency medical service delivery in rural and semi-rural areas.
The Board gave their consensus to add the topic to the Lake EMS Board agenda for the following week.
reports – commissioner cadwell – vice- CHAIRMAN and district 5
ceremony attendance and four corners discussions
Commr. Cadwell reminded the Board that the Route 50 ribbon cutting ceremony would be held next week at South Lake Hospital. He mentioned that the Lake Sumter Health Science building groundbreaking ceremony would be held later that day. He remarked that he would be looking for an opportunity to speak with the Four Corners school principals to discuss the busing situation before the December report.
REPORTS – COMMISSIONER PARKS –CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT 2
chairman election
Commr. Parks thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve as their Chairman. He opined that as Chairman, he hoped to be a force in cultivating good on the Board and developing the fullest potential that they can collectively offer. He mentioned that they had a retreat scheduled for January.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 12:28 p.m.
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sean parks, chairman
ATTEST:
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NEIL KELLY, CLERK