A regular MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

October 23, 2018

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of County Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida. Commissioners present at the meeting were: Timothy I. Sullivan, Chairman; Leslie Campione, Vice Chairman; Sean Parks; Wendy Breeden; and Josh Blake. Others present were: Jeff Cole, County Manager; Melanie Marsh, County Attorney; Niki Booth, Executive Office Manager, County Manager’s Office; Gary J. Cooney, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller; JoAnne Drury, Accounting Director, County Finance; and Josh Pearson, Deputy Clerk, Board Support.

INVOCATION and pledge

Pastor Billy Day from First Baptist Church Tavares gave the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Agenda update

Mr. Jeff Cole, County Manager, said that after the original agenda was published, staff had since clarified the fiscal impact of Tab 6 relating to the County’s cost share of the funding. He added that for Tab 17, staff revised the funding to reflect all of the funded projects on the list.

presentation of lake county’s response to hurricane michael

Mr. Cole relayed that he requested an update on the County’s response to the Hurricane Michael recovery in the Florida Panhandle from the Office of Emergency Management and the Sheriff’s Office.

Mr. Tommy Carpenter, Director for the Office of Emergency Management, recalled that two weeks prior, he presented to the Board an update on the storm including its forecast and effects to the Florida Panhandle area. He said that the storm made landfall as a category four hurricane with 155 miles per hour (MPH) winds and with storm surge up to 14 feet. He compared the storm to a tornado the size of a hurricane and stated that the winds were similar to the 2007 Groundhog Day tornados in Lake County. He explained that the storm’s effects in the Panhandle were devastating with regard to homes, businesses, infrastructure, hospitals and schools. He commented that to date, there had been three requests from the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) for these Lake County resources: urban search and rescue; fire rescue services; public safety communication services; and security and humanitarian services; additionally, each of these requests had to be completely self-sustained with food, water and other facilities. He said that the urban search and rescue service was Florida Task Force 4 (FL-TF-4) and relayed this information about their operation: one member of Lake County Fire Rescue deployed; assigned rapid, primary and secondary searches in several counties; teams encountered heavy structural damage, multiple building collapses, and widespread devastation; teams forced entry for building searches and conducted K9 search operations in collapsed structures; as counties were cleared, assets were redeployed to increase services; and it was a seven day deployment and personnel returned home on the previous weekend. He displayed pictures of the operation, noting many damaged structures, a K9 unit, and a school which was significantly damaged. He remarked that fire rescue services were also requested to respond to and assist the impacted counties and that the response included ten total personnel composed of individuals from the Lake County, Clermont and Eustis Fire Departments. He added that one apparatus was sent from each agency, that units provided fire suppression and supported 911 response operations to relieve local resources, and that it was a seven day deployment with the personnel returning home on the previous weekend. He then showed pictures of fire rescue personnel extinguishing fires and assisting a homeowner from where a tree impacted their home. He said that communication services were requested to respond and assist to restore public safety communications in various affected counties and he listed this information regarding this: two personnel from the Office of Public Safety Support were deployed to assist; equipment provided included a portable communications tower with supporting portable satellite equipment; the team re-established public safety communications systems; they performed 911 system equipment repair; and it was an eight day deployment with the team returning home on the previous weekend. He showed an image from Washington County where a communication tower had collapsed, along with another image of Lake County’s portable tower which was set up. He remarked that the State also requested command vehicles from counties in the initial days so that they could install the equipment and use the vehicles as 911 centers. He said that the team conducted tower inspections to ensure their safety and their ability for reutilization, and they did everything possible to restore communication for the impacted counties. He then stated that law enforcement and emergency management services responded to a request for security and humanitarian services in Bay County and that one emergency management individual was deployed. He elaborated that this individual operated as the Planning Section Chief who coordinated communication between Bay County and the SEOC, that 19 Lake County Sheriff’s Office staff were deployed, and that the resources sent included one Sheriff’s Mobile Command Post, 20 vehicles, one portable water tank, four portable toilets, and 500 gallons of fuel. He reiterated that the deployment had to be self-sustainable and that the team maintained law enforcement for two municipalities within Bay County. He mentioned that the Planning Section Chief created an incident action plan each day to determine the operations for the following day so that Bay County would be informed of this. He displayed photographs of the security and humanitarian services conducted and said that it was far reaching when compared to the other services. He also provided an update on the County’s Office of Animal Services and said that they received nineteen cats from Bay County and that six had been adopted. He also said that he anticipated other impacted counties sending animals to Lake County. He indicated that resources from locations throughout the State of Florida would continue to support response and relief operations as long as the need existed. He recalled that during the Groundhog Day tornados, the Lake County Emergency Operations Center was active twenty-four hours per day for three weeks and that during this time the county had over forty state agencies who responded to provide assistance; furthermore, Hurricane Michael created total devastation throughout multiple counties and that he expected these operations to continue for a significant period of time. He said that Lake County followed the standard process of responding to requests for assistance from the SEOC and that the County would gather its cost information and submit it to the State for processing and reimbursement.

Commr. Sullivan thanked all of the county’s first responders and emergency personnel who left their families to assist in the Panhandle.

Mr. Gary Cooney, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, asked which cities received law enforcement services in Bay County.

Mr. Carpenter responded that the Cities of Parker and Springfield received services.

Commr. Blake asked if the replaced communication tower in Bay County collapsed as designed, and Mr. Carpenter indicated that he was unsure.

Commr. Breeden thanked all of the county’s public safety and Sheriff’s Office personnel who responded and said that the county would continue to respond in some way.

sales surtax oversight committee report

Mr. Michael Rankin, with the Sales Surtax Oversight Committee, said that Ordinance 2001-130 established the Sales Surtax Oversight Committee which consisted of eight individuals appointed by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC), the School Board, the League of Cities and also of two Constitutional Officers. He stated that the committee recently had two meetings and that the BCC had the current year’s report. He commented that the summary report of all entities’ total revenues and expenditures included in the report and all of the individual reports reflected expenditures for October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019. He relayed that the members of the committee served in an advisory capacity and that recently, there had been good dialogue due to the committee investigating the information and asking many questions.

Commr. Sullivan thanked him for the presentation and noted that there were some questions about the sales tax and debt service.

Ms. Melanie Marsh, County Attorney, said that she recently spoke to another member of the committee who had some additional questions and it may be premature to ask for an Attorney General’s opinion. She recommended that the BCC allow the committee to have more discussions about the issue and to bring the item back at a later time.

Mr. Rankin said that the committee members communicated well and that a recommendation could be brought forth.

Commr. Sullivan complimented the committee for their reports.

Minutes approval

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Blake, and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Minutes of September 11, 2018 (Regular Meeting)

citizen question and comment period

No citizens wished to address the Board at this time.

CLERK OF the Circuit COURT and comptroller’s CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Breeden and carried unanimously by a 5-0 vote, the Board approved the Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 15, 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.

Greater Lakes/Sawgrass Bay Community Development District Resolution 2018-05

Request to acknowledge receipt of Resolution 2018-05 identifying the Fiscal Year 2018/2019 meeting schedule for the Greater Lakes/Sawgrass Bay Community Development District. This meeting schedule is being submitted in accordance with Section 189.015(1) of the Florida Statutes.

City of Groveland Transmittal Package for Ordinance 2018-09-33

Request to acknowledge receipt from the City of Groveland for transmittal package for Ordinance No. 2018-09-33, Large Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Hunt Island) to the City of Groveland’s Comprehensive Plan, pursuant to 163.3184, Florida Statutes.

City of Groveland Ordinance 2018-08-26

Request to acknowledge receipt from the City of Groveland Ordinance No. 2018-08-26, Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Bradshaw) to the City of Groveland’s Comprehensive Plan, pursuant to 163.3187, Florida Statutes.

Cascades at Groveland Community Development District Resolution 2018-09

Request to acknowledge receipt of Resolution 2018-09 identifying the Fiscal Year 2018/2019 meeting schedule for the Cascades at Groveland Community Development District. This meeting schedule is being submitted in accordance with Section 189.015(1) of the Florida Statutes.

Greater Lakes/Sawgrass Bay Community Development District FY 18/19 Final Budget

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Final Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2018/2019 approved by the Board of Supervisors of the Greater Lakes/Sawgrass Bay Community Development District. Transmittal of the Final Adopted Budget is being made pursuant to Section 189.016 of the Florida Statutes.

Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District Resolution 2018-09

Request to acknowledge receipt of Resolution 2018-09 identifying the Fiscal Year 2018/2019 meeting schedule for the Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District. This meeting schedule is being submitted in accordance with Section 189.015(1) of the Florida Statutes.

Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District FY 18/19 Final Budget

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Final Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2018/2019 approved by the Board of Supervisors of the Estates at Cherry Lake Community Development District. Transmittal of the Final Adopted Budget is being made pursuant to Section 189.016 of the Florida Statutes.

Founders Ridge Community Development District FY 19 Meeting Schedule

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Founders Ridge Community Development District in accordance with Section 189.015, Florida Statutes.

Deer Island Community Development District FY 19 Meeting Schedule

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Deer Island Community Development District in accordance with Section 189.015, Florida Statutes.

Central Lake Community Development District FY 19 Meeting Schedule

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Central Lake Community Development District in accordance with Section 189.015, Florida Statutes.

Arlington Ridge Community Development District FY 19 Meeting Schedule

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Arlington Ridge Community Development District in accordance with Section 189.015, Florida Statutes.

Bella Collina Community Development District FY 19 Meeting Schedule

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Bella Collina Community Development District in accordance with Section 189.015, Florida Statutes.

Cascades at Groveland Community Development District FY 18/19 Final Budget

Request to acknowledge receipt of the Final Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2018/2019 approved by the Board of Supervisors of the Cascades at Groveland Community Development District. Transmittal of the Final Adopted Budget is being made pursuant to Section 189.016 of the Florida Statutes.

Avalon Groves Community Development District Resolution 2018-06

Request to acknowledge receipt of Resolution 2018-06, identifying the Fiscal Year 2019 meeting schedule for the Board of Supervisors of the Avalon Groves Community Development District. This meeting schedule is being submitted in accordance with Chapters 189 and 190 of the Florida Statutes.

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Campione and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Consent Agenda, Tabs 4 through 18, as follows:

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Request approval of the Fairgrounds Lease Agreement with the Lake Agriculture and Youth Fair Association, Inc. The fiscal impact is $1.00 (revenue) annually. Commission District 3.

Request approval to declare a portion of Alternate Key 1031320, located in Minneola, as surplus and accept an Offer to Purchase; and approval for the Chairman to execute any necessary closing documents.  The fiscal impact is $5,144.73 (revenue). Commission District 2.

management and budget

Request approval of the First Amendment to Contract 18-19-82, Agreement for Reimbursement related to Lake County Veterans' Treatment Court. The additional annual fiscal impact is $15,412.00 (revenue/expenditure – $3,082.40 in County funding and $12,329.60 in State funding).

Request retroactive approval of the Supervisor of Elections' purchase of a 2017 GMC cargo van utilizing fiscal year 2018 funds. The fiscal impact is $21,980.00 (expenditure). 

PUBLIC SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

Building Services

Request approval to award two contracts for building plan review and inspection services on an as-needed basis, under Request for Proposal (RFP) 18-0928, to American Building Safety Associates, Inc. (Clermont, FL) and Universal Engineering Sciences, Inc. (Orlando, FL). The fiscal impact is up to $53,000.00 (expenditure).

Public Safety

Request approval to purchase three 2019 ambulances from Emergency Tactical Rescue (Sanford, FL), and authorization for the Office of Procurement Services to execute all implementing documentation and related budget transfer(s). The fiscal impact is $654,617.00 (expenditure – $316,163.00 for one unit for the Office of Fire Rescue and $338,454.00 for two units for the Office of Emergency Medical Services).

Request approval to apply for a U.S. Department of Homeland Security 2018 Assistance to Firefighters Grant to replace 225 self-contained breathing apparatus, and authorization for the Chairman to execute all related documents. The estimated fiscal impact is $1,933,437.00 (revenue/expenditure – $1,757,670.00 in grant funds and $175,767.00 in County matching funds).

INFRASTRUCTURE AND INTERNAL SUPPORT SERVICES

Facilities Management

Request approval to award Contract 19-0203 to ICU, Inc. (Clermont, FL) for security services for approximately three months starting November 1, 2018, pending completion of a fully competitive re-award process. The estimated fiscal impact for this interim contract is $25,000.00 (expenditure).

Procurement Services

Request approval to award a term and supply contract under Request for Proposal 18-0703 for Work Rental Uniforms to UniFirst Incorporated (Orlando, FL). The total estimated annual fiscal impact is $30,019.00 (expenditure).

Public Works

Request approval of Resolution 2018-156 to reduce the speed limit from 45 MPH to 40 MPH on Sawgrass Bay Boulevard, in the Clermont area. The fiscal impact is $200.00 (expenditure - sign materials). Commission District 2.

Request approval of Resolution 2018-157 designating roads and streets as appropriate for the operation of golf carts within Silver Beach Heights, located in Umatilla. The fiscal impact is $200.00 (expenditure - sign materials). Commission District 5.

COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICE

Community Services

Request approval to accept a Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program Fiscal Year 2018 grant through the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Administration, of $600,000.00 over 36 months to pass through to LifeStream Behavioral Center to continue and expand the Mobile Crisis Response Program; and authorization for the Chairman to execute any necessary grant documents. There is no fiscal impact. Commission Districts 1 and 2.

Request approval of an agreement with Crystal Lake Supportive Environments, Inc. d/b/a Attain, Inc. (Orlando, FL), to provide disadvantaged client transportation and to comply with Chapter 427, Florida Statutes, which requires those who transport disadvantaged clients to fall under the purview of the Community Transportation Coordinator. There is no fiscal impact.

Request approval of grant funding for eight organizations that submitted applications through the Children's Services Council Grant Request for Proposal process, and authorization to execute the related agreements. The fiscal impact is $165,161.00 (expenditure).

Request approval of grant funding for 10 organizations that submitted applications through the Human Services Grant Request for Proposal process, and authorization to execute the related agreements. The fiscal impact is $122,500.00 (expenditure).

public hearings: REZONING

rezoning consent agenda

Mr. Tim McClendon, Director of the Office of Planning and Zoning, displayed the advertisements for that day’s rezoning cases on the overhead monitor in accordance with the Florida Statutes. He said that there were three tabs on the consent agenda; however, on the previous night, staff received an errata sheet from the applicant for Tab 2. He recommended pulling Tab 2 to the regular agenda and requested that the BCC accept the consent agenda as presented.

Commr. Sullivan said that Tab 2 would be pulled to the regular agenda and that Tabs 1 and 3 would be on the consent agenda.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

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

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Rezoning Consent Agenda, Tabs 1 and 3, pulling Tab 2 to the regular agenda, as follows:

Tab 1. Ordinance No. 2018-50

Rezoning Case # FLU-18-07-2

Oak Properties Future Land Use Map Amendment

Amend the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) to change the Future Land Use Category on approximately 41 acres (Alternate Keys 2665645 and a portion of 1453313) from Regional Office to Urban High Density.

Tab 3.

Rezoning Case # CP-18-10

Public Order & Safety Uses Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Transmittal

Amend the Comprehensive Plan to define ‘Public Order and Safety’ and ‘Detention Facilities’ to allow Public Order and Safety uses in most Future Land Use Categories and exclude Detention Facilities within the Green Swamp Area of Critical State Concern.

rezoning regular agenda

Tab 2. Ordinance No. 2018-51

Rezoning Case # RZ-18-05-2

Oak Properties PUD Rezoning

Revoke Conditional Use Permit (CUP) #957-3 and establish a Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning district on 46.81 acres (Alternate Keys 2665645 and 1453313) to allow a mixed-use development of residential and commercial uses.

Mr. McClendon explained that this case was identified as Rezoning Case # RZ-18-05-2 with the name of East Clermont Village Planned Unit Development (PUD) and was also identified as Oak Properties PUD Rezoning. He elaborated that the property was located at the northeast corner of State Road (S.R.) 50 and County Road (C.R.) 455 within Commission District 2, that the actual tract size was approximately 41 acres, and that the requested action was to revoke a conditional use permit (CUP) and rezone the property to PUD to develop a mixed-use development of residential and commercial uses. He relayed that the current zoning was identified as Agriculture and the applicant had submitted a concept plan with a required eight foot sidewalk on the western side of the property along C.R. 455 which would extend the adjacent Lake Apopka Loop Trail to the south. He then listed these staff analysis findings: the applicant was requesting to rezone approximately 41 acres; the proposed development program would include 400,000 square feet of commercial uses and up to 296 residential dwelling units; a traffic analysis submitted by the applicant identified that this program would have less of an impact than what was currently approved on the site; the utilities would be supplied by the City of Clermont; during the Joint Planning Area (JPA) review, the City of Clermont requested several conditions which were identified in the proposed ordinance and included the prohibition of certain uses such as motor vehicle sales; the proposed request was consistent with the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) and the land development regulations (LDRs); and the Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval on October 3, 2018. He reiterated that on the previous day, staff received an errata sheet with revised conditions from the applicant to modify a few items and require landscaping along S.R. 50 in the median, which would have to be approved by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). He said that staff would also suggest an additional condition under Section G which would require the non-residential component to have final approval by the BCC. He read the requested action to find the request consistent with the Comp Plan and LDRs and to accept the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Board with the conditions modified as presented at the current meeting.

Commr. Breeden asked to ensure that there would be appropriate fencing or a buffer between the commercial and residential areas.

Mr. McClendon replied that this was located in the ordinance.

Mr. Jimmy Crawford, the applicant representing Oak Properties and the contract purchaser of the property, said that he appreciated staff’s cooperation on the case and relayed that he and his clients would accept the additional site plan plat approval by the BCC for the commercial portion of the property. He stated that they wanted the development to be of the highest standards and that a significant change would be the removal of some of the prohibited uses. He elaborated that the City of Clermont did not initially have any comments about the development when the original JPA letter was sent out and also provided a utility availability letter to indicate their support for the property. He continued by remarking that the City then wrote a second letter to propose an overlay district for the west S.R. 50 corridor which would provide architectural and other development standards, along with prohibiting all automotive uses along the corridor including sales, service, parts sales, tire and brake stores, etc. He noted that the City of Clermont said that pending adopting an overlay district, it was the request of the City that any uses of the site conform to the future zoning overlay which listed the prohibited automotive uses. He stated that the City also requested that all development standards maintained in the JPA be upheld along the S.R. 50 corridor to promote orderly, quality and cohesive development, which the PUD would contain. He commented that in August 2018, the case came to a planning and zoning hearing in the City of Clermont where it was defeated 7-0 with a large community turnout. He noted that a few days later, many participants in the hearing received an email from the Clermont City Attorney which said that as a follow up, the City Manager decided that the referenced ordinance was not ready to be presented to the City Council and would therefore be removed from their consideration; furthermore, it was recommended that the City Council review the proposed ordinance in a workshop likely to occur after January 1, 2019. He said that the developer then asked staff to remove those conditions due to the proposed overlay district being revoked and not currently under consideration by the Clermont City Council for adoption. He elaborated that staff did not feel comfortable removing them, so they requested that the BCC remove them along with the other changes in the errata sheet. He commented that the City of Clermont sent staff an email on the previous day to confirm that there was not a proposed overlay district currently before them. He asked for the PUD to be approved with the errata sheet.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

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

Commr. Parks commented that this would involve a suburban area which was in transition to urban and that the design of the project was a consideration. He noted public concerns about automotive dealerships, and he asked staff to display a picture of the intersection of C.R. 455 and S.R. 50 which was near the development. He said that there were higher density residential areas around this intersection and that it would be a high traffic area; additionally, the applicant was willing to landscape the medium along S.R. 50 and their property. He noted that this would be pending approval from FDOT and that he appreciated this aspect of the development. He also pointed out a nearby trail connection.

Mr. Fred Schneider, County Engineer, explained that the existing South Lake Trail ran along C.R. 455 and that the trail would run along the property frontage down to a nearby shopping center.

Commr. Parks said that the trail would be connecting some of the higher density residential development to the commercial corridor. He indicated his support for this application and highlighted that the developer had agreed to adhere to the area’s design criteria.

Commr. Campione commented that the proposed landscaping was a creative way to mitigate the development’s visual impacts while still allowing commercial activity.

Commr. Blake disclosed that he had spoken to Mr. Crawford and indicated that he took issue with local governments imposing aesthetic preferences and design standards.

Commr. Breeden, Commissioner Sullivan and Commissioner Parks also disclosed that they had spoken to Mr. Crawford about the case.

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Breeden and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Tab 2, Rezoning Case # RZ-18-05-2, Oak Properties PUD Rezoning.

resolution 2018-158 vacating alleyways in sorrento

Mr. Schneider stated that this was a vacation petition applied for by Mr. Keith Spears and Ms. Susan Spears to vacate a portion of unimproved alleyways. He elaborated that the purpose of the request was to clear title due to a portion of their home being located on the easement. He noted that as a part of the vacation request, the owners wanted to construct a garage with the restriction of the north-south alleyway. He mentioned that the property was in Commission District 4 and that there were no letters of opposition, letters of support, or utility objections. He said that the vacation request was located in the Town of Sorrento and displayed pictures of the site, noting that it was near S.R. 46, Lawrence Street, and C.R. 437. He stated that staff recommended approval of the request.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

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

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Resolution 2018-158 vacating portions of alleyways shown on the Plats of Paxton and Sommerville, on the Map of Sorrento.

ordinance for transportation impact fees

Ms. Marsh 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 ARTICLE III, CHAPTER 22, LAKE COUNTY CODE, REGARDING TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEES; AMENDING SECTION 22-37, LAKE COUNTY CODE, ENTITLED IMPOSITION; ESTABLISHING TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEE RATES FOR THE NORTHEAST/WEKIVA AND NORTH CENTRAL BENEFIT DISTRICTS BEGINNING FEBRUARY 1, 2019; INCREASING THE RATES FOR THE CENTRAL BENEFIT DISTRICT BEGINNING FEBRUARY 1, 2019; AMENDING SECTION 22-42, ENTITLED TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT DISTRICTS, TO DEFINE THE BOUNDARIES OF THE NORTH CENTRAL AND THE NORTHEAST/WEKIVA BENEFIT DISTRICTS; AMENDING SECTION 22-11, LAKE COUNTY CODE, ENTITLED PREPAYMENT OF IMPACT FEES, TO DISCONTINUE THE PREPAYMENT OF IMPACT FEES PROGRAM EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2019; AMENDING SECTION 22-6, LAKE COUNTY CODE, ENTITLED TRANSFER OF IMPACT FEES; AMENDING SECTION 22-41, LAKE COUNTY CODE, ENTITLED IMPACT FEE TRUST ACCOUNT AND USE OF MONIES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR FILING WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Commr. Campione relayed that she met with the Home Builders Association of Lake-Sumter (HBA-LS) during the previous week to discuss impact fees and the challenges for the local homebuilders, such as affordability for their customers.

The Chairman opened the public hearing

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

Commr. Campione stated that members of the HBA-LS would likely attend the adoption hearing and that as a general rule, the organization said that when they apply for a permit, they are mainly concerned with the total amount of impact fees instead of considering the components of transportation, schools, etc. She noted that permits inside cities that involve water or sewer services can contribute to high impact fees. She said that she relayed the importance of considering each of these categories separately and also how the impact fees could be used to improve transportation. She relayed that the association requested that if the County was to increase transportation impact fees, then they should correspondingly lower the school impact fee; however, she explained to the HBA-LS that the School District requests the fee based on their available funds. She elaborated that the BCC had been deferring to the School District’s study with the understanding that they would attempt to fully fund new school construction without accumulating more debt. She mentioned the possibility of the BCC discussing these fees with the School District and if there would be the potential to reduce them. She remarked that the County previously discussed infill development waivers with the School District and that 17 of these waivers were granted in the previous year.

Ms. Marsh confirmed this and stated that there was funding for nine more waivers.

Commr. Campione said that the program was working to construct homes with the additional architectural requirements and was at a price point appropriate for workforce housing for residents including teachers and public safety personnel. She expressed interest in possibly expanding the school impact fee waiver program for workforce and infill housing, or potentially lowering the fee. She said that the HBA-LS was agreeable with creating the northeast/Wekiva district due to the future Wekiva Parkway and that they appreciated keeping the central and north-central fees equivalent; additionally, the organization would appreciate an incremental increase to allow time to prepare for it, though they asked for some relief or to distinguish between the larger developers with new developments and the smaller builders utilizing existing lots for Lake County residents. She said that discussions with staff and the consultant revealed that there was not a mechanism to distinguish between large projects and those on single lots.

Commr. Breeden asked if an impact fee discount could be given to a single lot.

Commr. Campione replied that there would have to be another source of funding if a discount was given. She stated that one source could be from the gas tax or the General Fund.

Ms. Marsh commented that staff would have to investigate the gas tax because it was already programmed for road improvements. She confirmed that the General Fund would be an option.

Commr. Campione proposed considering to set aside funding to be available for waivers if certain criteria were met, such as the price point, location, being on a single lot, etc. She said that criteria similar to the School District’s infill housing waiver could be utilized.

Commr. Parks asked if the current infill housing waiver was only for the school impact fee, and Commissioner Campione confirmed this. Commissioner Parks then said that the County could enact this for transportation impact fees by starting with $100,000 from the General Fund to enact the program immediately.

Ms. Marsh said that it could be put into effect once the ordinance was adopted.

Commr. Campione commented that construction in walkable areas could receive waivers and that there could be a pilot program for an infill housing waiver.

Commr. Breeden asked if this could be done in a separate ordinance.

Ms. Marsh responded that it would have to be in a separate ordinance because it was not advertised for the current meeting. She then clarified that the current hearing was for the adoption of the proposed ordinance.

Commr. Campione asked the Board to postpone the adoption hearing to the next BCC meeting.

Commr. Parks said that he understood the need to raise impact fees in the northeast/Wekiva district, though he had questions about the central district. He relayed that he recently spoke with the HBA-LS and that they had concerns about raising the impact fee in the central district, along with The Villages and the City of Leesburg. He expressed support for postponing the hearing to allow more time to investigate the matter.

Commr. Breeden said she would prefer to delay raising the impact fee in the central and north-central districts until August 2019.

Commr. Campione agreed with this proposal, but said that she wanted the fee to still be raised currently in the northeast/Wekiva district.

Commr. Breeden remarked that she had no issue with the current schedule for the northeast/Wekiva district, though would prefer to keep prepayments until February 1, 2020.

Commr. Campione commented that the prepayments benefit the larger builders and that the purpose of raising the fee in the northeast/Wekiva district is to receive funding from the larger developments there.

Commr. Breeden asked if the developers would still only have a year to break ground.

Ms. Marsh confirmed this and said that if they prepaid under the current ordinance, they would have to build within a year or they would receive a dollar for dollar credit for those prepayments.

Commr. Campione asked that if the developers would have to pay the difference when obtaining permits on individual homes, and Ms. Marsh confirmed this. She commented that developers were building quickly and mentioned that the Board could wait until both August 2019 to raise impact fees in the central and north-central districts, with increasing the fee twice in the northeast/Wekiva district up to 52 percent.

Ms. Marsh clarified that the first increase in the northeast district would be up to 39 percent on February 1, 2019, and the second increase would be 52 percent. She mentioned that holding a second public hearing on the ordinance would require staff to adjust the effective dates due to a need for the dates to occur 90 days from the ordinance’s adoption.

Commr. Breeden opined that prepayments could be extended to February 1, 2020 and would remain in effect for a year after that date.

Commr. Campione proposed keeping the prepayment program in effect until August 2019 to allow developers to prepay at a lower rate and have a year to construct.

Ms. Marsh clarified that the current rates in effect are prepaid on the day when the payment occurs. She explained that if a developer prepaid $500 per home on the current day, then they would either have one year from the current date to build the homes, or they would receive a $500 dollar for dollar credit.

Commr. Parks asked if this was because the prepayment prohibition would not be in effect until February 2019 if the ordinance was passed.

Ms. Marsh responded that under the current proposed ordinance, developers would have until January 1, 2019 to prepay, with the program ceasing after that date.

Commr. Breeden said that she would consider supporting ending prepayments in August 2019.

Commr. Sullivan noted a consensus to postpone the public hearing for the proposed ordinance to the next BCC meeting.

Ms. Marsh commented that delaying the public hearing to the next BCC meeting would change the proposed ordinance’s effective date to February 4, 2019.

Commr. Campione asked if prepayments would cease on January 1, 2019 if no change to the ordinance was made by the BCC.

Ms. Marsh replied that leaving the ordinance as it was currently written would have prepayments end on January 1, 2019 and that developers would need to prepay between the current date and December 31, 2018.

Commr. Campione proposed leaving the January 1, 2019 date for ending the prepayment program intact and potentially extending the date at the next BCC meeting based on feedback received before that time.

Commr. Breeden asked if the Board could still delay raising the fee in the central and north-central districts to 26 percent until August 2019, and the BCC indicated a consensus to support this.

Commr. Campione then said that an infill housing waiver could apply to properties above a certain value and could qualify up to a certain amount of funding. She stated that the waiver could be defined as being for workforce residents or veterans.

Commr. Breeden asked if this program would be countywide and expressed that she would want more research on this matter to be conducted.

Commr. Parks responded that it could be countywide and he asked how soon an ordinance for this could be drafted.

Ms. Marsh stated that she could develop this and she asked if the ordinance could start with the same categories currently used for the school impact fee waiver.

Commr. Parks voiced his support for this idea and said that conditions could then be added or subtracted.

Commr. Campione said that if there were some special categories, then as a pilot program, the County could allocate a certain number of waivers set aside awarded per year on a first-come first-serve basis based on residents’ occupations or commission districts.

Commr. Blake expressed concerns that this may represent micromanaging the economy and recalled that local builders previously voiced their concerns about a potential increase in impact fees.

Commr. Campione commented that the purpose would be to increase the affordability of homes and to help local builders. She remarked that the large national builders generally had greater control over the market and financing and that this was creating challenges for local builders. She said that there were going to be more impacts to the roads and that funding would be required to relieve congestion; however, the Board was also attempting to keep housing affordable and this would necessitate additional measures. She pointed out that the larger builders are able to absorb impact fees and that nearby counties had ways to provide financing so that a homeowner could qualify. She said that high impact fees could push individual homeowners out of the market.

Commr. Parks commented that the HBA-LS understood the need for new roads and schools and that this contributes to higher impact fees, though they opined that the fee should be fairer for them.

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board postponed the public hearing until the November 6, 2018 BCC meeting with the modification to delay changing the fee in the central and north-central districts to 26 percent until August 2019.

leadership of lake county members in attendance

Commr. Campione mentioned that two individuals from Leadership of Lake County were in attendance and that the organization was developing an alumni program. She added that on November 2, 2018, they would hold an alumni gathering, and these events were intended to continue to allow alumni to network and receive information.

Commr. Sullivan said that the speaker on this date would be Mr. Jacob Stewart, who had been a longtime community advocate in the Greater Orlando area. He commented that it would be a great event and would involve a panel discussion.

recess and reassembly

The Chairman called a recess at 10:11 a.m. for 15 minutes.

regular agenda

presentation - lake county’s 2019 legislative priorities

Mr. Bill Veach, Deputy County Manager, presented the proposed legislative priorities for FY 2019. He said that the BCC provides their list of priorities for consideration during the State’s legislative session and that the County works closely with its lobbyists to help obtain funding and to track legislation throughout the process. He relayed that in past years, the County sent Commissioners and key staff members to the City of Tallahassee to support legislative efforts. He commented that in the current year, GrayRobinson, Attorneys at Law, would be coordinating pre-session legislative meetings in the City of Tallahassee for Lake County Commissioners and key staff. He then began listing the top priorities for the 2019 State legislative session, beginning with the realignment of C.R. 437 with a request of $7 million for right of way acquisition and construction costs. He elaborated that the construction of the Wekiva Parkway would impact local roadways, including C.R. 437, and the project would help the County assist vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic in the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento communities. He said that the next request was for $2 million for the Sorrento Avenue complete streets project, and that together, the Mt. Plymouth/Sorrento Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and the BCC approved a corridor planning study for the area; additionally, the plan included road and drainage improvements, turn lanes, roundabouts, sidewalks, crosswalks, a trail, parking, curbs and gutter. He stated that the next road project was for $7.5 million to construct phase three of C.R. 466A and complete the four lane project located near The Villages. He remarked that another road infrastructure being presented for consideration would be the S.R. 50 realignment in the City of Groveland. He explained that S.R. 50 was an important corridor for economic development, connectivity and emergency routes, and the project would reduce nearby congestion, increase the capacity for traffic, and add sidewalks and bicycle lanes. He then began discussing quality of life issues with the first being the East Lake Community Park central sewer connection. He indicated that the County was seeking $1 million to construct wastewater infrastructure which would connect to the City of Eustis’ existing central wastewater system; furthermore, improvements would provide permanent solutions to sanitary facilities for the park’s amenities, which could include existing and future ballfields, along with a future fire station and library. He said that this project would also offer improved water protection within the Wekiva River Basin. He stated that there was an ask of $1.5 million for the Ferndale Preserve for the project design, engineering and construction of a one mile multi-purpose trail which would connect the Ferndale Preserve parking area to the western shore of Lake Apopka, which was a popular destination for residents and tourists. He then mentioned that site improvements at the Helena Run Preserve would have a request for $900,000 which would fund the project design, engineering and construction of a parking area, restroom, pavilion, boardwalk, overlook platform, fishing pier and a canoe/kayak launch. He added that these improvements would provide increased opportunities for ecotourism based recreation and would enhance public appreciation of natural, cultural and historic resources. He remarked that for the South Lake Regional Park, there was a request of $2.5 million to design and build infrastructure for wastewater, potable water and reclaimed water which would then be connected to the City of Groveland’s existing system. He also said that this would address the park’s water need and would also improve water quality protection in the Green Swamp. He then mentioned State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) funding and that the County requested funding set aside for this program to be used as the law intended, resulting in about $2.8 million becoming available to assist Lake County families. He stated that staff’s current projections for this funding in FY 2019 was about $550,000 and if the SHIP program was fully funded, the County could assist nearly 200 additional families annually. He commented that this funding would also provide an economic boost to housing construction in the county. He remarked that the County would again be asking for the State to support full funding based on the statutory formula for the State Aid to Libraries operating grant which provides support to all 67 counties. He stated that funding for FY 2019 was expected to be about $20.5 million statewide which would be an 11.5 percent reduction in state aid. He said that the County would be opposed to legislation which would increase the cost of recycling for county residents. He elaborated that this legislation was proposed in the previous year and would give control of collection contracts to private haulers, leaving local government without a way to provide cost-effective service to its citizens. He then highlighted these dates: the presentation to the Lake County delegation at Lake-Sumter State College on a date to be determined; the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Legislative Conference would occur on November 8 through November 30, 2018 in the City of Tampa; Lake County Days in the City of Tallahassee would be on February 20 and 21, 2019; and the legislative session would begin in the City of Tallahassee on March 5, 2019. He concluded by reading the requested action to approve the proposed legislative priorities for FY 2019.

Commr. Blake asked about the deadline for amending the County’s list of legislative priorities. He also expressed interest in speaking with the new Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and new members of the Lake County legislative delegation.

Mr. Veach replied that staff would work with the BCC to develop their priorities and that currently, staff was operating under these two guidelines: anything presented in their packet must have first been approved by the BCC; and staff was attempting to have their packet printed by the time the legislative delegation would likely visit Lake-Sumter Community College in November 2018. He said that if another priority was approved after this event, it would be inserted into the packet but would not be part of the printed material.

Commr. Breeden asked about the shifting of road priorities and if they should continue to be included in the County’s legislative priorities.

Mr. Veach recalled that some substantial road project approvals were received in the previous year from both the House of Representatives and Senate, though they were vetoed by the Governor. He said the guideline that staff followed was that if there was funding programmed by FDOT, then those projects would not be included. He added that the presented road projects did not currently have any money programmed for them and that there would be no impact in asking for them.

Commr. Campione commented that a project being vetoed would set it back a year and prevent it from being programmed by FDOT.

Mr. Cole said that this was the policy of the Governor’s office and that with a change in governor, it was uncertain if this would change.

The Chairman opened the floor for public comment.

Mr. Mike Perry, Executive Director for the Lake County Water Authority (LCWA), relayed that the Harris Chain of Lakes was being affected by hydrilla plants which were hindering residents’ navigation of the lakes. He explained that hydrilla was an invasive plant that had spread throughout many lakes, specifically Little Lake Harris, and that citizens had recently voiced their concerns at a meeting with the Florida Wish and Wildlife Commission (FWC). He said that the FWC was responsible for aquatic plant control throughout the state and that they spent about $4 million on the Harris Chain of Lakes in the previous year to maintain the hydrilla there; however, their appropriation was reduced to $2.1 million this year and they had currently spent all of their funding attempting to control the hydrilla. He asked if there was a way to support obtaining funding from another state agency to ensure the availability of hydrilla control in Lake County. He noted that the LCWA Board had such a concern about this issue that they allocated $1.5 million of their budget for FY 2019 to assist with it. He mentioned that the lakes were associated with economic opportunities such as fishing tournaments, and hydrilla would prevent navigation and hinder the use of the lakes.

Commr. Sullivan agreed and noted that the Harris Chain of Lakes was used for bass tournaments in the county.

Commr. Breeden also supported adding this item as a legislative priority.

Commr. Campione asked about the FWC not having the funding and if there was a consistent amount which had been dedicated to controlling hydrilla.

Mr. Perry stated that there was a consistent amount of funding; however, the FWC could direct their funding to different areas and while the Harris Chain of Lakes had received ample funding in the previous year, the high flow of water caused by Hurricane Irma prevented the FWC from applying herbicide in a timely manner and the hydrilla began to spread. He also noted concerns about hydrilla near Venetian Gardens in the City of Leesburg.

Commr. Campione added that Lake Yale also had a significant amount of hydrilla in it.

Commr. Sullivan said that the FWC was receiving a sum of funding each year and conducted annual surveys to determine where to spend it. He said that Lake County received an inconsistent amount of funding each year.

Mr. Perry expressed concerns about the LCWA providing funding for this issue and that it would be a one year stopgap to help prevent a more significant problem in the following year.

Commr. Campione asked if the County could send a letter to the FWC to indicate the hydrilla issue and its effect on ecotourism so that they could potentially tap into funding from another state agency.

Commr. Breeden asked if it would be appropriate to ask the LCWA to assist with drafting the appropriate language, and Mr. Perry indicated his willingness to cooperate on the issue.

Commr. Campione inquired that since the LCWA paid a considerable amount of money for the alum for the Nutrition Reduction Facility (NuRF) treating the water which was primarily coming from Lake Apopka in Orange County, why were local tax dollars being spent to support this. She also asked why it was not a joint project to fund it.

Mr. Perry recalled that there had been discussions with Orange County about this issue and their response had generally been to contact the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). He said that the LCWA spent approximately $3 million in the previous year for the alum, and added that it was a significant water quality project and helped remove over 14,000 pounds of phosphorous from water which originated in Lake Apopka before it entered the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Commr. Campione expressed concerns that the LCWA was having to clean Lake Apopka’s water when there were other issues in Lake County. She opined that this service should not solely be funded by Lake County taxpayers.

Commr. Parks stated that there had been previous efforts to cooperate with Orange County. He said that the water from Lake Apopka fed into the Harris Chain of Lakes and was a significant factor in the water quality there, and noted that the SJRWMD also had a project to restore the wetlands on Lake Apopka’s north shore.

Mr. Perry commented that, regarding the parts-per-billion phosphorous in Lake Apopka, the LCWA’s facility there helped to meet the state’s water quality requirement before the water reached the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Commr. Breeden noted that the SJRWMD’s budget was drastically cut recently.

Commr. Parks opined that the SJRWMD should help fund the water quality maintenance in Lake Apopka.

Commr. Campione suggested that the County should play a more active role with the hydrilla issue in the Harris Chain of Lakes and that there had not been a significant change in water quality coming from Lake Apopka. She also opined that the SJRWMD should assist with funding to clean the water coming downstream.

Mr. Perry relayed that the SJRWMD was expending considerable effort to improve Lake Apopka but that it was an approximate 30,000 acre lake and would require a significant amount of time to increase the water quality there.

Commr. Blake asked if there was any current research that concerned commercial applications for hydrilla.

Mr. Perry replied that he was not aware of any research for this use.

Commr. Parks said that an issue with torpedo grass in the Clermont Chain of Lakes had worsened and that this was also under the purview of the FWC.

Commr. Sullivan asked to direct staff to cooperate with Mr. Perry and develop either an addition to the County’s legislative priorities or a program to inform the State Legislature of this issue.

Mr. Cole said that staff would add this item to the legislative priorities and would also bring a letter back at the next BCC meeting. He asked if the BCC would also want staff to prepare a letter to the SJRWMD about the funding relating to the NuRF project and the alum, and Commissioner Sullivan confirmed this. Mr. Cole added that there had been some historic issues between the SJRWMD and the LCWA over the NuRF project, and the SJRWMD had been resistant to engage with the project.

Commr. Parks stated that the SJRWMD purchased the Lake Apopka north shore property and that further assisting the NuRF project would reduce their focus on that area.

Mr. Perry commented that the SJRWMD now had approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to flood those fields sooner than expected, which could change their considerations and regulation schedules. He mentioned that the water quality there would increase due to having more water in the lake and that the SJRWMD was also attempting to move water off the north shore which was placed there by Hurricane Irma.

Mr. Cole said that an additional challenge with Lake Apopka was that the lake was primarily rainfall driven and that the lake level became low during long periods of little rainfall.

There being no one else who wished to address the Board regarding this matter, the Chairman closed the floor for public comment.

Commr. Campione then recalled discussions about an issue with farming activities in which mining was also conducted. She suggested that if a citizen would be engaging in mining or excavation prior to farming, then they should allow the local government to regulate the truck issues and road impacts. She also suggested requesting legislation for this purpose, and mentioned potentially communicating with the farming lobby and obtaining their support.

Commr. Breeden expressed her support for a legislative priority on this topic.

Commr. Parks said that the FAC recently expressed support for the request regarding recycling legislation and the contamination of recycled materials and that it was also supporting the removal or changing of the 75 percent goal and moving to a performance-based goal due to contamination issues and determining which materials were recyclable. He also relayed the FAC’s support for incentives for using recyclable materials and for encouraging businesses for developing ways to utilize recyclable materials.

Mr. Cole asked that in addition to approving the legislative priorities, an item would need to be added relating to general funding for hydrlla removal. He added that separate to that, staff would prepare letters for both the SJRWMD about cooperative funding for the alum relating to the NuRF project, and for the FWC, in cooperation with Mr. Perry, about the hydrilla issue.

Commr. Sullivan confirmed this.

Mr. Veach noted that the League of Cities was also in support of the SHIP funding issue.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Parks and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Lake County’s 2019 legislative priorities with the addition to add funding from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) for the removal of hydrilla plants.

presentation - economic prosperity update and strategic vision

Mr. Brandon Matulka, Executive Director for the Agency for Economic Prosperity, presented a summary of economic development and tourism activities within his agency. He displayed a slide for the reorganization of the Office of Elevate Lake and its move to the Lake County Welcome Center. He noted that phase one of the reorganization concerned organizational structure and staffing, branding, and policies/procedures, and that phase two consisted of the strategies and actions for the Office of Elevate Lake moving forward. He specified that this would include industry and city meetings and roundtables, land owner and developer meetings, data collection, the creation of a strategic plan, and the update of the office’s economic action plan. He stated that phase three would involve the office’s resource development and strategic plan execution and adjustment. He displayed the Office of Elevate Lake’s staffing and organizational chart, relaying that he became the Executive Director near the start of June 2018 and that he had since set out to create business relationships in Lake County, including those with municipalities and stakeholders. He said that Ms. Tracy Garcia would be the new Director for Product Development and Business Attraction for the office and that this role was very important; additionally, he noted that she previously worked for Polk County where she managed economic development for Visit Central Florida and the Central Florida Development Council. He commented that Ms. Erika Greene was the Associate Director for Workforce Business Support, and Ms. Alexandra Sanchez and Ms. Amanda Johnson were still the Managers of Business Development and were doing a great job of building relationships with businesses. He began discussing strategic initiatives and highlighted four core areas of focus for the Office of Elevate Lake including business support, workforce development, product development and business attraction. He said that for business support, the goals were to build strong relationships with businesses, to provide and connect businesses with resources, to become a respected source for information and government facilitation, and to create a business friendly regulatory environment that protects quality of life. He then said that to accomplish these goals, the agency would continue to collaborate with and engage business communities with the managers serving in a concierge role and conducting events in the community. He commented that the office would also look to enhance its relationships with support partners such as the Business Opportunity Center (BOC) and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), to engage in business retention and expansion through visits and conducting in-depth surveys, to collect high quality information about businesses which can then be provided across industries, to tailor better resources for those businesses, to provide access to high quality demographic and economic information for cities, to create a formalized process for collecting internal information such as permitting and housing numbers, to increase the promotion of local businesses through the Florida Virtual Entrepreneurship Center (FLVEC) and social media campaigns, and to work with the Office of Communications to produce more publications, blogs and videos to support these programs. He then remarked that for workforce development, the office’s goal was to continuously support and work with its partners to ensure that Lake County is generating a workforce with the skills required for its businesses, and to also deliver opportunities to connect the county’s student population and education partners with the business community. He then listed these actions to accomplish this: focus on initiatives and projects to meet the needs of target industries such as healthcare and manufacturing; continue to build the office’s workforce taskforce group to increase collaboration and coordination among its workforce partners through quarterly meetings and new programs; support the office’s education partners’ programs by investigating best practices from outside of the state and supporting services such as the Health Sciences Collegiate Academy; enhance the office’s current programs including the Skills Showcase, Summer Tech Month, Manufacturing Month, Teachers in Industry Institute, etc.; create an annual workforce summit in cooperation with the office’s education partners; and include education partners as part of the office’s surveys, site visits and recruitment projects. He then stated that the core focus of product development was still the most significant business attraction challenge in Lake County and that there was currently a shortage of light industrial and large footprint office space, along with ready vacant land with the required infrastructure. He commented that the County would have to facilitate the creation of more improved space and ready-to-go vacant land and he listed these actions to accomplish this: implement tools to increase the visibility of available properties for investment by bringing back the Lake County Property Finder and highlighting city specific properties; marketing strategic corridors such as Wellness Way and the Wolf Branch Innovation District by utilizing micro sites to show opportunities for companies and investment; hosting regular roundtables with brokers, developers, landowners and businesses on a quarterly or bi-annually basis; proactively seek to assist in creating funding opportunities for road, utility and technology development through grants and partnering with municipalities; and developing programs, resources and tools to facilitate development. He remarked that for the final core focus of business attraction, a significant challenge would be that there was currently a competitive environment and that the office would be attempting to provide more exposure for Lake County as a business destination and to balance growth to ensure high quality of life for residents. He detailed these actions to accomplish the goals for business attraction: shift recruitment efforts in-house with the office’s new Director for Product Development and Business Attraction, implement regional meetings with municipalities to drive a regional marketing initiative and increase collaboration between the County and the cities; build marketing pieces for Lake County and its cities; proactively market Lake County to targeted industries and site selectors to build relationships and increase awareness of the county; continue to evaluate the County’s relationship with the Orlando Economic Partnership as a recruitment partner and to ensure that this relationship is maximized; and product development initiatives, which would be a key to the attraction of businesses. He concluded by reiterating that phase three would concern the execution of those actions, monitoring their effectiveness, and adjusting them as needed.

Mr. Matulka then presented a tourism update for the Office of Visit Lake. He displayed the staffing and organizational chart for this office and noted that it had remained unchanged since the previous presentation, with Ms. Kathy Pagan as the Associate Director, Mr. Steven Clenney as the Manager for Sports Development, Ms. Tiffani Hubbert as the Manager for Tourism Development, and Ms. Amanda Martin as the Tourism Support Assistant. He showed a graph showing Tourist Development Tax (TDT) revenue for the previous three years and noted consistent growth year over year with about a 9.7 percent growth projection for each year. He listed the strategic initiatives for the Office of Visit Lake as being advertising and marketing, event recruitment and support, co-op marketing, and capital projects. He stated that for advertising and marketing, the office was still in a contract with Akers Media and the Watauga Group, which were managing the master Visit Lake marketing campaign with oversight from the Offices of Visit Lake and Communications; furthermore, the target segments for the master campaign were individuals visiting the City of Orlando and those within the two hours of driving time from Lake County. He said that the organizations also developed some of the bass fishing and bird watching target segments, and the Office of Communications was continuing to help develop smaller in-house projects and social media pieces. He displayed an image showing several of the updated marketing pieces developed by Akers Media and in-house staff utilizing the “Real Florida, Real Close” digital branding which Akers Media had distributed. He specified that this was targeted at individuals within a two hour driving time from Lake County and that the advertisements were flexible and adaptable to any activity in Lake County. He then remarked that the “Zero Wait Time from Here” campaign was targeted at tourists visiting attractions in the City of Orlando and had been a great campaign, and he then showed images of a partnership marketing campaign with TrophyCatch Florida which had attended many bass events hosted in the county. He elaborated that pictures of bass tournament winners were presented on the digital advertisements and that this campaign was co-branded with TrophyCatch Florida and LakeBigBass.com. He displayed a picture of the Florida Welcome Center wraps for facilities within the two hour drive time, located on Interstate 10, Interstate 75, Interstate 95 and U.S. 231, commenting that the wraps promote “Real Florida, Real Close” and that material detailing activities in the county was available upon entering the buildings. He then showed an in-house advertisement developed by the Office of Communications as part of a meeting planner advertising initiative which was included in ConventionSouth Magazine. He noted that this magazine was distributed to approximately 18,000 meeting planners in 16 different states, and that Lake County was recently recognized as one of the top places to host meetings in the southern United States. He said that for the event recruitment and support strategy, there was a constant evolution of the event sponsorship programs to ensure ease of use and the availability of relevant programs. He relayed that the office was also looking for programs to target high room night generation, significant out of county visitors, low season and regional impact events, and that there would be increased collaboration with the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. He listed these recent wins which the county had with events: the 2018 Fondo Cycling Circuit USA in the City of Clermont; the 2018-2020 Florida High School Athletics Association State Gold Finals at Mission Inn; and the 2019 Bassmaster Team Championship and 2019 Bassmaster Eastern Open at Venetian Gardens. He also listed these targeted events: a 2019 Major League Fishing event; the 2019 American Cornhole Organization Florida State Championship for the City of Clermont; additional bass fishing events; and the 2020 Professional Disc Golf Association US Masters Disc Golf Championships in coordination with the Lake County Disc Golf trail. He described the co-op marketing strategy as a program where tourism based businesses could leverage TDT funds for their own tourism marketing and promotion; additionally, the program could be used for print media, billboards, television advertising, digital marketing, etc. He noted that the program had been underutilized and he expressed interest in promoting it as an option for businesses. He said that the strategy for increased utilization would include increased outreach to educate tourism businesses, the development of additional eligible uses, and the creation of more Visit Lake initiated co-op opportunities. He commented that as part of the education for businesses, the office had developed a partner portal which recently went live, and was a portal where tourism based businesses could gain access to applications, information, Tourist Development Council (TDC) presentations, and update their listings. He remarked that the office’s capital projects strategy remained focused on niche sports with a high return on investment and avoided the competition for traditional sports. He then said that some of the potential projects under consideration included events for pickleball and cycling, trail construction and birding assets. He commented that the Hickory Point Beach Athletics Center had its groundbreaking on August 16, 2018 and the grand opening was scheduled for February 27, 2019. He said that complex improvements at Hickory Point had already begun and included parking deterrents and signage; furthermore, after the 2019 Sand Volleyball season, the County would attempt to add landscaping, stormwater management, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant sidewalks. He displayed pictures of the Hickory Point Beach Athletics Center during construction and said that construction was moving quickly. He also showed images of the signage and parking deterrents which had been placed. He then presented an update on the Lake County Disc Golf Trail, stating that there were six current courses with three having been completed. He specified that one completed course was located in the City of Clermont with the remaining two situated in the City of Mount Dora, and they were nine hole courses. He remarked that the Palmetto Trails course in the City of Eustis was currently under construction and that after it was finished, the North Lake Park trail would commence, to be followed by another trail at Lake-Sumter State College. He said that the scheduled completion of these trails was the end of 2019.

Mr. Matulka then presented an update on the Fairgrounds and Event Center, commenting that there would be a two phase plan and that phase one would involve staff working to promote enhanced event targeting and recruitment efforts, increasing collaboration with the Office of Visit Lake to help drive new events to the venue and to develop local marketing pieces, and developing a relocation strategy with the Lake County Fair Association. He indicated that phase two would involve reviewing the relocation strategy with the BCC and stakeholders, along with developing marketing pieces and event promotion plans. He highlighted the new Fairgrounds and Events Center website which was a fully online market and event reservation system with online payment options, and he noted that this system had increased efficiency for reporting and reconciliation.

Commr. Parks said that he appreciated the Agency for Economic Prosperity’s efforts and commended their help with the Great Floridian Triathlon Endurance Festival. He supported the agency’s efforts to be on Lakefront TV and Lake-Sumter State College TV which were at no cost to the County. He mentioned that phase two of the Fairgrounds and Event Center would be great for the County and that it could be moved and referred to as an expo center or meeting space. He opined that the facility would perform well and that there was a demand for meeting space due to high costs in the Cities of Orlando and Kissimmee.

Mr. Cole explained that staff’s vision included an expo center and that a layout would be brought back to the BCC. He elaborated that the expo center would have air conditioning which would help attract additional events. He stated that the County would also be seeking federal grants to harden the facility as an under air shelter.

Mr. Matulka commented that the facility was in a great location and that the buildings there would provide additional opportunities.

Commr. Sullivan expressed that a recent TDC meeting involved discussions about analyzing marketing and website hits and results to determine their effectiveness. He said that the TDC councilmembers with expertise in these areas were engaged with staff and that the County would be able to capitalize on this. He also said that sports and tourism had a significant positive impact on the county.

Commr. Campione remarked that the Lake County Fair Association supported making this transition. She mentioned the possibility of taking a corner parcel of land near the fairgrounds and selling it if the City of Eustis or a nearby recreational vehicle (RV) park would be interested in the buildings there. She suggested maximizing that portion of the property’s value and turning it into an investment for the new site. She relayed that she heard discussions from the public about designing the new air conditioned expo center in a way that could support high school graduations, and she advised not to compete with the private sector so that the types of events hosted there would be those which could only be hosted at an expo center. She also suggested designing the building to allow for rolling up the outside doors in order to be able to bring in large objects for agricultural or boat shows. She asked when the Board would see the concept plan.

Mr. Cole replied that four or five years prior, the Lake County Fair Association developed a conceptual plan for the site, though it did not account for the full extent of the property or that the new animal shelter would be located there. He commented that this organization was agreeable to working with the County because they both shared similar needs for parking and an expo center. He said that since the agreement had been approved, the next step would be for the Lake County Fair Association and the County to move forward with fundraising and grants. He mentioned that staff had programmed some funding in the future sales tax, but not for three years, so staff would have to evaluate financial opportunities. He confirmed that the maximum value of the property would come from the mentioned corner parcel and that it had been appraised; however, staff did not want to divest of it too quickly because the Fair Association and the County required a location to operate their events.

Commr. Campione said that the conditions could be such that the closing would not occur until a date which would be acceptable to the Fair Association and the County. She noted that this would allow bids to be placed on the property sooner and would also allow the County to plan its move to the new site once the required capital was acquired. She also commented that it could be staged so that events could occur before the expo center would be built.

Mr. Cole added that some of the existing infrastructure could be used at the new site. He relayed that the Fair Association would be agreeable to operating for a few years on the site with limited facilities.

Commr. Campione asked if water and sewer services were already available where the new animal shelter would be located.

Mr. Cole responded that the water and sewer services were currently located under S.R. 19, would be brought into the animal shelter, and would be continued into the fairgrounds property. He remarked that the architectural design of the animal shelter was also considering how the facility might interact with the new fairgrounds site.

Commr. Breeden thanked Mr. Matulka for his presentation and asked if there was a possibility of bringing some of the county’s cultural elements into the “Real Florida, Real Close” campaign to advertise art festivals or theater groups.

Mr. Matulka replied that this could be discussed with Akers Media and that the campaign was very adaptable.

Commr. Breeden also asked for Ms. Garcia to introduce herself and discuss her decision to begin working for Lake County after having been at Polk County.

Ms. Garcia expressed that she appreciated the opportunity and that she was grateful to be working for the Agency for Economic Prosperity. She said that she saw it as a great opportunity to advance her career. She relayed that her background was in civil engineering and that she had been in that field for almost 30 years before pursuing economic development. She remarked that she met Mr. Matulka through a mutual friend in the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) and that the position seemed right for her.

Commr. Parks said that the BCC was glad to have her here and that Polk County had accomplished some good things.

Commr. Campione asked if staff could investigate a property which was on the corner of S.R. 19 and C.R. 448 and was adjacent to the County’s fairgrounds property. She said that this property was brought to her attention as a potential access and that the private owner may be interested in allowing a road to be built through which would give direct access from S.R. 19 to the fairgrounds property. She opined that the County could cooperate with the owner for the construction of the road.

Mr. Cole asked if the property abutted the south boundary of the animal shelter site.

Commr. Campione confirmed this and then recalled the County’s discussions with the City of Minneola about economic development in the Hills of Minneola area. She relayed that initial discussions on the topic involved a possible frontage road to increase access to the property for the purpose of recruiting businesses, and she asked if staff was exploring this. She said that the Hills of Minneola developer would be mobilizing and might be agreeable to coordinating with the County to construct a road.

Mr. Matulka replied that this would be a significant opportunity for his office and that benchmarking was occurring with a future meeting with Marion County to discuss their development of parks. He indicated an intent to meet with the Hills of Minneola developer, who owned the property, and said that the area had some challenges with factors such as elevation changes which the County could attempt to solve in coordination with the developer.

Commr. Campione said that the County could take the initiative and develop a plan for the frontage road, and the developer could then take that into consideration and construct the road. She expressed an interest in moving forward on this item quickly.

Commr. Breeden suggested entering into an agreement with the developer to ensure that this plan would be amicable to all parties.

Commr. Campione asked to clarify if the agreement would be with the City of Minneola or the developer, and Commissioner Breeden said that it could be either or both. Commissioner Campione said she did not recall any questions from the City about this issue and that they were looking to the County to be the driver of economic development in the area. She requested that staff should contact the Minneola City Manager to ask that the City Council make a formal request.

Mr. Cole responded that he would contact the Minneola City Manager about this item.

Commr. Parks asked if any concepts had been presented to the City of Minneola yet.

Mr. Matulka replied that his office was intending to partner with another organization such as the East Florida Regional Planning Council to develop a site plan.

approval of affordable housing incentive strategies

Ms. Dorothy Keedy, Director for the Community Services Department, presented the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee’s (AHAC) recommendations for affordable housing incentive strategies. She explained that SHIP was created by the Florida Legislature in 1992 and was governed in accordance with the Florida Statutes. She elaborated that the program was funded by documentary stamp tax revenue that was set aside in a housing trust fund to provide revenue for counties for affordable housing programs. She said that the program was administered through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation and that counties and cities were awarded funds annually through the State legislative budget process. She remarked that each entity must prepare a Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) which includes strategies for expenditures of funds to provide affordable housing to residents who fall into specified income categories. She then specified that all strategies must address housing for moderate, low, very low and extremely low income households. She commented that as a condition of receiving funding, each county must appoint an AHAC consisting of individuals with certain areas of expertise relating to affordable housing needs. She added that the committee develops recommendations for strategies to be included in the LHAP, and the BCC considers those recommendations when adopting the LHAP. She mentioned that LHAPs are used for three year periods and that funds must be expended on a specific number of qualified units as outlined in the plan for those three years. She noted that every three years, the committee was required to hold public meetings to review local government plans, policies and procedures, ordinances, regulations and the comprehensive plan for their impacts on affordable housing. She further explained that based on this review, the committee was required to formulate recommendations to the BCC to incorporate into its LHAP certain changes that are designed to encourage affordable housing. She relayed that the committee met on June 21, 2018 and September 26, 2018 to conduct this review and develop recommendations and that as part of this process, the AHAC was required by Florida Statutes to consider 11 strategies as specified in the Florida Statutes. She added that two of those strategies were required to be adopted, and the remaining nine must be considered for adoption. She relayed that the AHAC voted to recommend seven strategies to the BCC for adoption including a required strategy that affordable housing projects be expedited to a greater degree than other projects during the development and review process. She elaborated that Lake County currently had a process which was utilized by both the planning and building office staffs in conjunction with the Housing and Community Development Division staff, and the committee recommended keeping this strategy in place. She also mentioned that the second recommended strategy was the modification of impact fee requirements, including the reduction or waiver of fees, and alternative methods of fee payment for affordable housing. She noted that this strategy had been used in the past and was funded by impact fee interest revenue to offset the waiver of impact fees; additionally, the AHAC recommended keeping this strategy in place so that it could be utilized in the future if funding became available. She remarked that the third strategy was the allowance of affordable accessory residential units in residential zoning districts, and she mentioned that the Lake County Code currently allowed accessory units in certain zoning districts. She noted that considerable discussion occurred on the current access requirement of having a common driveway serve both the main and accessory unit; as such, the AHAC recommended including this strategy with the deletion of the requirement for common access and having the access reviewed on a case by case basis. She said that the fourth strategy was the reduction of parking and setback requirements for affordable housing, with the AHAC recommending the allowance of this incentive under specified conditions, such as restricting the incentive to senior housing or locating the housing on a transit route, which could both reduce the need for parking spaces. She stated that the fifth requirement was for the modification of street requirements for affordable housing and that currently, the LDRs allowed for a 16 foot minimum right of way under certain conditions; furthermore, this incentive was recommended for approval when adequate justification for narrower streets is provided during the development review process. She explained that the sixth strategy was the requirement of an ongoing regulatory review process, and this incentive was required to be adopted by the BCC. She added that the committee recommended including an economic impact statement in the Board’s agenda items for consideration to provide the BCC with information on the impacts of new policies, ordinances and regulations on affordable housing. She relayed that the last incentive recommended for adoption was locating affordable housing near transportation hubs and transit oriented development. She elaborated that the AHAC recommended implementing this incentive by utilizing the proximity of a proposed affordable housing development within a three-quarter mile distance of an existing transit route when ranking SHIP funded project applications. She indicated that the third and fourth incentives would require modifications to the existing Lake County Code if approved by the Board. She read the requested action to approve the affordable housing incentive strategies as recommended by the AHAC, and to also approve the transmittal of the recommendations and the accompanying report to the Florida Housing Financing Corporation.

Commr. Sullivan commented that there were many regulations with affordable housing and that they could be challenging to manage. He opined that the State Legislature was not providing funding at the appropriate levels and reiterated that this issue was one of the County’s legislative priorities.

Commr. Campione asked about how the recommended strategies related to the LHAP.

Ms. Keedy replied that the LHAP had strategies for providing the units to the required populations, and the strategies to be approved at the current meeting would be to incentivize the LHAP strategies and affordable housing in general.

Commr. Blake asked about the third strategy and if it would allow a separate driveway to access the accessory unit on a case by case basis.

Ms. Keedy responded that this was correct and that the AHAC likely considered site conditions and the effect of a comprehensive strategy, which was why they recommended that each site should be considered individually.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the seven Affordable Housing Incentive Strategies as recommended by the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and to transmit the report to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.

appointments to the sales surtax oversight committee

Commr. Sullivan recommended the reappointment of Ms. Bea Meeks from Commission District 1.

Commr. Breeden stated that Colonel Herbert Scott Smith had served on the committee for a significant amount of time, had done a good job and was seeking reappointment. She recommended his reappointment.

Mr. Cole clarified that the BCC was considering four applicants for two positions on the committee.

Commr. Sullivan added that the County’s correspondence with the Lake County League of Cities and the Lake County School Board should be included in the motion to appoint those individuals as well.

On a motion by Commr. Parks, seconded by Commr. Campione and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the reappointments of Ms. Bea Meeks and Colonel Herbert Scott Smith, the appointment of Mr. Steve Tibbits, as designated by the School Board, and the reappointments of Mr. Jim Ley and Mr. Michael Rankin, as designated by the League of Cities, to the Sales Surtax Oversight Committee to serve four-year terms ending November 19, 2022.

appointment to the tourist development council

Commr. Sullivan commented that Mr. Steven Bishop, Executive Director and President of the Florida Region of USA Volleyball, would give the TDC another great asset in sports and tourism.

On a motion by Commr. Breeden, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Resolution 2018-159 to appoint Mr. Steven Bishop to a position on the Tourist Development Council to complete a four-year term ending December 1, 2020, and approval of a waiver of potential ethical conflicts for Mr. Bishop.

2018 women’s hall of fame induction of mabel norris reese

Commr. Campione indicated that there was a great article in the Mount Dora Citizen online newspaper about the inductee.

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Breeden and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the ratification of Ms. Mabel Norris Reese as the 2018 Women's Hall of Fame inductee as selected by the Women's Hall of Fame Committee.

reports

county manager

displaying millages & establishing mstu for separate entities

Mr. Cole recalled that during the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 budget discussions, the Board expressed interest in exploring whether millages could be displayed separately on property tax bills and also whether a Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) could be established to fund separate entities from the County government. He relayed that staff found that displaying separate millages on property tax bills would not be workable and that the MSTU issue would require additional evaluation. He elaborated that the next step would be to conduct a competitive procurement for a consultant to evaluate the feasibility of establishing an MSTU for a separate entity funded through the County’s budget; additionally, procuring the consultant would require several months and the analysis would require between six and nine months. He said that this issue would be brought back in fall 2019. He also said that results from the study were not anticipated to be presented until after the FY 2020 budget was approved.

commissioners reports

commissioner parks – district 2

future of transportation summit

Commr. Parks stated that the recent Future of Transportation Summit on October 12, 2018 went well and had about 150 attendees. He said that there were interesting innovations presented which could immediately be applicable to Lake County and that there was a new road base material presented by a company based in Polk County. He remarked that this material could significantly add to the life of a roadway.

Commr. Breeden asked if the material could be used for trails.

Commr. Parks confirmed this and added that it could also be an alternative to fully paving clay roads.

Mr. Schneider said that the material was a mix that would toughen a clay road. He also stated that the material had not been approved yet by FDOT. He also noted that the cost-benefit of this material could be investigated and that there would be some test cases in Polk County.

Commr. Parks mentioned that ride sharing information was also provided, that the County should consider autonomous vehicle infrastructure on arterial roads, and that some right of ways could be used for agricultural purposes. He thanked Mr. Schneider for helping present during the event and he thanked the Public Works staff for being responsive to citizen concerns about roads.

commissioner breeden – district 3

Traffic light on round lake road

Commr. Breeden commented that she had recently had a chance to use a new traffic light on Round Lake Road and that it was appreciated.

commissioner campione – VICE CHAIRMAN AND district 4

project development & environment study for round lake road

Commr. Campione relayed that there would be a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study presentation concerning Round Lake Road on October 25, 2018 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Mount Dora Community Building.

meeting at united way of lake and sumter counties

Commr. Campione said that on October 31, 2018, she would be attending a meeting at United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties. She added that individuals from outside of Lake County would be brought together and that they could be potential partners with helping Lake County address its homelessness situation and create a funding mechanism to accomplish this.

meeting with lake county historical society

Commr. Campione remarked that in the previous week, she had a productive meeting with the Exhibits Committee of the Lake County Historical Society and its Museum Board. She said that the Lake County Historical Society had an office in the Historic Courthouse with a conference room and a library with books which were part of the Lake County library system, and she proposed utilizing this space as an additional gallery to focus on black history, the civil rights movement in Lake County, cultural events and achievements. She remarked that there was not currently enough room for a permanent exhibit and she asked if there would be enough space in the County Administration Building to have a small library resource room for individuals to review materials. She also asked if the Lake County Historical Society could utilize a conference room in the County Administration Building for their board meetings. She commented that she had also discussed forming a committee and asking for participants to assist with finding historical materials through donations or loans which could be part of a comprehensive exhibit. She relayed that she observed some interesting items at the Leesburg African American Museum which could possibly be loaned to the County for exhibits. She also expressed interest in having participation from the community to ensure that it would be a well-rounded exhibit. She clarified that the committee would fulfill an advisory role which the Exhibits Committee would then consider and put into action.

Commr. Breeden expressed her support for this idea and asked if the new committee would be involved with the proposed statute of Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith.

Commr. Campione responded that the committee could also be an advisory committee to the Museum Board. She added that the Exhibits Committee would be developing the proposed language for the statue’s exhibit and would include the sensitivity of the issue and the debate surrounding it, with the new advisory committee then reviewing the proposed exhibit to evaluate its sensitivity and comprehensiveness. She said that the Exhibits Committee would be considering the language used for the statue in the City of St. Augustine. She noted that the State of North Carolina had recently decided to leave certain monuments intact with additional historical context for their eras, and Lake County could take a similar approach. She said that the language from the exhibits in the State of North Carolina addressed Civil War issues and that she would be in favor of a permanent exhibit for the era which would include both positive and negative aspects of that time in Lake County. She noted that the Confederate statue would be presented in the context of that time, and the language for sensitivity would discuss that presenting this time in history still invoked emotions in the present time.

Commr. Breeden asked how long it would take to form this committee.

Commr. Campione indicated a desire to begin composing the committee immediately and determining how large it should be. She commented that the committee would be under the purview of the Museum Board, and she expressed the idea of submitting a press release to gather applicants. She added that she could also reach out to city councils for their recommendations.

Commr. Breeden expressed concerns over featuring a Civil War exhibit. She said that one of her concerns with the Confederate statue is that it would change the direction of the exhibits in the museum and opined that to properly present this exhibit, a considerable amount of space would be required. She said she appreciated Commissioner Campione’s suggestion and expressed support for a civil rights era exhibit, but said that she wanted the focus to be on Lake County and how it was impacted by different historical eras.

Commr. Campione relayed that there was already a significant Civil War exhibit which included the Confederacy. She also clarified that the civil rights exhibit would occupy a new gallery and that the war section would continue as such and house the Confederate statue. She stated that some of the exhibits there concerned Lake County and others involved broader history, and opined that the Confederate statue would not create an inconsistency in the museum.

Commr. Breeden commented that she still opposed the Confederate statue coming to Lake County, though she would not object to allowing meeting space for the Lake County Historical Society in the County Administration Building. She asked what time this organization met in the evenings, and Commissioner Campione replied that they typically met at 6:00 p.m. Commissioner Breeden then remarked that it may be challenging to keep the County Administration Building open at night. She suggested that the Historical Society could utilize conference areas in the County Administration Building for meetings during the day.

Commr. Parks asked if the conversation about having dynamic exhibits in other areas, such as the County Administration Building, would continue. He said that exhibits could also be presented in other County buildings.

Commr. Campione said she hoped that roving exhibits could house gathered historical materials. She added that there could also be a greater attention and sensitivity to individuals of different backgrounds within the museum.

Commr. Blake said that the Capitol Building in the City of Tallahassee could be used as a template, as it had pictures with descriptions throughout its hallways.

Commr. Breeden expressed that she appreciated Commissioner Campione’s efforts to further this goal.

Commr. Sullivan agreed with this direction and noted that there used to be a picture of World War II General Charles P. Sommerall, who was from Astor. He commented the picture had been moved around and that this was an example which could be followed.

Commr. Campione said that she would provide periodic updates to the BCC and that she would begin helping seat the committee immediately.

sylvan point meeting

Commr. Campione said that at 6:00 p.m. on the current day at the Emergency Communications and Operations Center (ECOC) in the City of Tavares, there would be a Sylvan Point Drive meeting involving residents and County staff to discuss a recent drainage study and sanitary sewer issues. She elaborated that the County had contacted the City of Mount Dora about possibly connecting some of the homes to their sewer services.

city of eustis workshop about pine meadows area

Commr. Campione stated that she had contacted the City of Eustis about attending a workshop which would include discussion about the Pine Meadows area.

road naming near RENAISSANCE FAIRE

Commr. Campione remarked that staff had been involved with the road naming for the upcoming Renaissance Faire. She explained that there was a plan to have the official road name of Landfill Road in place, but part of the road would have a new name posted to identify it as “Lady of the Lakes Avenue”.

Mr. Cole said that signs would be placed early and that staff was operating under the presumption that the Board would approve this item as part of the November 6, 2018 agenda.

MSTU for road resurfacing in subdivisions

Commr. Campione said that much of the road resurfacing conducted by the County was internal to subdivisions. She proposed a possible change to the County’s ordinances which, in conjunction with interlocal agreements with the municipalities, would require that if a subdivision was over a certain size, there would be an MSTU which would contribute to road resurfacing costs within that neighborhood. She commented that this could allow the County to remove those roads from its road projects list and that currently, more neighborhoods were being built which was contributing to a greater need for resurfacing.

Commr. Parks expressed his support for this idea.

Commr. Breeden said that it could depend on the definition of a neighborhood.

Commr. Campione stated that affected neighborhoods would be newly platted and that this would not concern older neighborhoods. She added that older neighborhoods could already perform this through their homeowners associations (HOA), though if they wanted to participate, then the MSTU could be on their tax bill. She commented that County staff would have to maintain the accounting for this and that Orange County had already been using this type of MSTU. She said that it could immediately be put in place, that an evaluation of the required rate could be conducted, and that funding could be pulled from a subdivision’s reserves to fund resurfacing in that community.

Commr. Breeden asked if the funding would be collected in advance of resurfacing, and Commissioner Parks confirmed this and noted that it would be collected on a yearly basis. Commissioner Breeden expressed that a resident who was selling their home may not have experienced a benefit yet.

Commr. Campione responded that the buyer would know that the road would be in better condition there due to the MSTU. She said that a similar action could be taken in Wellness Way so that the PUDs there would address ongoing maintenance.

Commr. Parks noted that it should be consistent with the Capital Facilities Advisory Committee’s recommendations in 2008.

Commr. Breeden indicated support for the MSTU but had concerns with enacting it in advance of resurfacing.

Commr. Campione replied that collecting all of the funding at one time would be similar to a special assessment, and that an MSTU would collect smaller amounts of funding over time.

Commr. Sullivan remarked that the life of a road could be considered to determine how much funding should be collected each year for future resurfacing.

Commr. Parks mentioned that sidewalk maintenance could also be included in an MSTU.

COMMISSIONER BLAKE – DISTRICT 5

florida wildlife festival

Commr. Blake expressed that he recently attended the Florida Wildlife Festival in the City of Umatilla on October 20, 2018 and that it was a great event.

hurricane michael response

Commr. Blake thanked the county’s first responders who helped to contribute to the Hurricane Michael recovery.

life’s choices women’s clinic fundraiser event

Commr. Blake said that recently, he also attended a fundraising event hosted by the Life’s Choices Women’s Clinic. He commented that the event had high attendance and that it was great to learn about the services they provided.

commissioner sullivan – chairman and district 1

state of the county proposal

Commr. Sullivan said that he would soon begin developing the State of the County presentation, and asked for himself or staff to be contacted about ideas for items to be added to the proposal. He also stated that he appreciated the participation and cooperation from the Board and County staff. He expressed that the Board’s discussions at the end of each of its meetings were positive and helped to inform them of the events in each Commission District and to ensure that the Board was keeping the county’s issues in perspective.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 12:42 p.m.

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timothy i. sullivan, chairman

ATTEST:

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GARY J COONEY, CLERK