A regular MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

April 12, 2022

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 9:00 a.m., in the County Commission Chambers, Lake County Administration Building, Tavares, Florida.  Commissioners present at the meeting were: Sean Parks, Chairman; Kirby Smith, Vice Chairman; Douglas B. Shields; Leslie Campione; and Josh Blake. Others present were: Jennifer Barker, 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; Kristy Mullane, Chief Financial Officer; and Josh Pearson, Deputy Clerk.

INVOCATION and pledge

Commr. Parks welcomed everyone to the meeting.  He said that the Invocation would be led by Pastor Michael Watkins, with Friendship CME Church in the City of Tavares, and that the Pledge of Allegiance would be led by a veteran who was part of County staff.  He explained that Mr. Kieran Johnson had been a Probation Officer in the Office of County Probation since February 2016, and that he served in the United States (U.S.) Army from 2013 until he was medically honorably discharged in 2016 as an Army Specialist.  He elaborated that after completing basic training, Mr. Johnson went to Quartermaster School at Fort Lee, Virginia to become a Petroleum Supply Specialist, and that during his time there, he quickly worked his way up to becoming a Platoon Leader.  He stated that after completing his advanced training, Mr. Johnson was stationed at Fort Drum, New York, where he worked on the airfield and participated in several training exercises involving fueling various helicopters.  He thanked Mr. Johnson for his service.

Pastor Watkins gave the Invocation and Mr. Johnson led the Pledge of Allegiance.

virtual meeting instructions

Mr. Erikk Ross, Director for the Information Technology (IT) Department, explained that the current meeting was being livestreamed on the County website and was also being made available through Zoom Webinar for members of the public who wished to provide comments during the Citizen Question and Comment Period later in the agenda.  He elaborated that anyone watching though the livestream who wished to participate could follow the directions currently being broadcast through the stream; furthermore, he relayed that during the Citizen Question and Comment Period, anyone who had joined the webinar via their phone could press *9 to virtually raise their hand, and anyone participating online could click the raise hand button to identify that they wished to speak.  He said that when it was time for public comment, he would read the person’s name or phone number, unmute the appropriate line, and the speaker would be asked to provide comments.  He added that everyone would have three minutes to speak, and after three minutes an alarm would sound to let them know that their time was up.  He added that they previously notified the public that comments could be emailed through 5:00 p.m. on the previous day, and those comments were shared with the Board prior to the meeting.  He stated that anyone wishing to provide written comments during the meeting could visit www.lakecountyfl.gov/commissionmeeting, noting that comments sent during this meeting would be shared with the Commission after the meeting was concluded.

Agenda update

Ms. Jennifer Barker, County Manager, said that Tab 14 had been updated since the agenda was first published, and that the County had the letter that they received from Volusia County requesting the usage of the Lake County boat ramp on the St. Johns River.  She added that the final plat for Tab 15 was also updated in the background summary of the agenda item.

employee awards

Ms. Jeannine Nelson, Human Resources and Risk Management Manager, announced that they would be recognizing employees who had reached significant milestones in their careers with Lake County, as follows:

FIVE YEARS

Michael Driscoll, Maintenance Technician III

Office of Facilities Management

 

Charles Morris, Parts & Supply Technician

Office of Facilities Management

 

Gerald Patrick, Environmental Waste Technician

Public Works Department

 

TEN YEARS

Kevin Hamilton, Senior GIS Analyst

Office of Planning & Zoning

 

FIFTEEN YEARS

Seth Lynch, Development Engineer

Public Works Department

 

Brian Tindell, Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic

Office of Fire Rescue

 

TWENTY YEARS

Donovan Miller, Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic

Office of Fire Rescue

 

Charles Matlak, Firefighter/EMT

Office of Fire Rescue

 

Sean Wilson, Firefighter/EMT

Office of Fire Rescue

 

RETIREMENT – 19 YEARS

Debi Dyer, Office Associate III

Office of Planning & Zoning

 

Ms. Cari Branco, Assistant County Manager, said that Ms. Dyer had worked for the County for 19 years and was retiring in May 2022.  She commented that Ms. Dyer started her career at the Lake County Welcome Center in 2003, and that she supervised a team of 12 staff and greeted as many as 100 visitors per day.  She remarked that Ms. Dyer had served on the Superior Small Lodging Association Board for several years, and had traveled to conferences and surrounding locations to offer information about the Lake County area.  She said that Ms. Dyer had also served as a staff liaison for the Tourist Development Council (TDC) for over 13 years, and that while in tourism, Ms. Dyer’s favorite phrase was “It’s the friendly staff member at the hotel desk that goes out of their way to tell you about the great restaurant two blocks down, and the attraction that would be great for their children, that really matters.”  She mentioned that Ms. Dyer transferred to the Office of Planning and Zoning in 2016 to provide administrative support functions such as payroll, budgeting, permitting, reporting, and more.  She stated that staff would miss Ms. Dyer’s incredible baking skills and her hand-sewn items.  She remarked that upon retirement, Ms. Dyer was planning to travel to Ireland with her husband of over 35 years, and she asked Ms. Dyer to accept a plaque for her service award.

Ms. Dyer thanked the County for letting her be part of this team.

QUARTERLY AWARDS

EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER

Michael Springer, Support Services Specialist

Office of Library Services

 

Ms. Nelson said that during the current quarter, Mr. Springer developed a statistical dashboard that created custom reports to better serve member library directors and branch supervisors; additionally, he had been working with library couriers to improve the timeframe required to fulfill patron requests by reviewing and adjusting the routes for material deliveries.  She added that Mr. Springer had done extensive work to improve the library’s catalog database, making it easier for patrons to find and order books online, and was also instrumental in launching the student virtual library in partnership with the school system.  She explained that this involved importing over 43,000 records into the library’s database, and that Mr. Springer continued to create efficiencies within the Office of Library Services to increase customer service to patrons and staff.

SUPERVISOR OF THE QUARTER

Tony Cuellar, Battalion Fire Chief

Office of Fire Rescue

 

Ms. Nelson stated that Chief Cuellar was being recognized for his efforts in addressing payroll issues due to a sudden and unexpected service disruption with the proprietary payroll processing software used by the Office of Fire Rescue.  She said that with the assistance of the IT Department, Chief Cuellar immediately acted and coordinated with supervisors to restore and reestablish data to prevent any impact to their services.  She remarked that Chief Cuellar’s extensive knowledge of the payroll system, coupled with his dedication toward resolving issues, helped Lake County navigate the payroll process until the software issues were resolved.

T.E.A.M. OF THE QUARTER

KEEP LAKE BEAUTIFUL – COMMUNITY CLEAN UP TEAM

Public Works Department

Veronica Dau, KLB Facilitator

Brad Russ, Solid Waste Program Manager

Johnny Taylor, Hazardous Waste & E-Cycling Supervisor

Anna Powell, Hazardous Waste Technician

Zachary Waller, Hazardous Waste Technician

 

Office of County Probation

Djeff Ilere, Program Associate

 

Office of Communications

Samantha Shylkofski, Lead PIO     

 

Office of Fire Rescue

Chris Sievert, Deputy Fire Chief

Kraig Gilligan, Battalion Chief

Gerald Hood, Fire Lieutenant/EMT

Justin Joseph, Firefighter/Paramedic

Chelsea Barbina, Firefighter/EMT

Charles Matlak, Firefighter/EMT

Tim Roe, Firefighter/EMT

 

Ms. Nelson relayed that the Keep Lake Beautiful (KLB) – Community Clean Up Team was being recognized because they assisted with the KLB community clean up event held earlier in the current year at Festival Park in the City of Groveland.  She said that the Public Works Department’s Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Unit also participated to collect hazardous household items such as tires, fuel and batteries, and that this event resulted in the collection of over 400 pounds of litter and over 1,000 pounds of hazardous waste materials.  She thanked the team and the county residents who participated in the event.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL OF THE YEAR AWARDED BY:

Eustis Elks Lodge – Americanism Committee

Bobbi Schwarz, Dispatcher of the Year

Crystal Vicchiollo, Paramedic of the Year

Edward Johnson, Firefighter of the Year

 

American Legion – Tavares Post 76

Thomas Lucas, Paramedic of the Year

 

Chief Jim Dickerson, Director for the Office of Fire Rescue, stated that each year, their public safety professionals were recognized for achievements made throughout the year by the Eustis Elks Lodge in the City of Tavares, and the American Legion – Tavares Post 76.  He mentioned that these employees demonstrated a service above self when performing their assigned duties.

Commr. Parks thanked the staff in attendance for their service to the County.  He added that Ms. Dyer had provided wonderful concierge service since he had been on the Board of County Commissioners (BCC), and that she would be missed.

Minutes approval

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Smith and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the minutes for the BCC meetings of November 16, 2021 (Regular Meeting), December 7, 2021 (Regular Meeting) and December 14, 2021 (Special Meeting) as presented.

commissioner’s boards and committees updATE

Commr. Shields reported on the Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting from the previous day, noting that they were having record revenues and that they still had $3 million for capital funds; however, they did not have any applications.  He mentioned that they had some new staff and that they would begin working on a vision soon.

Commr. Campione asked if everyone who could possibly be interested in capital fund applications was notified.

Commr. Shields replied that no applications were received, and he guessed that when the process was shut down, it could take a while to have it started again.

Commr. Smith stated that he had asked some Cities why they had not applied, relaying that the process was potentially too cumbersome for them.  He proposed possibly streamlining the applications to make it easier for Cities to participate.  He then mentioned that there had been issues with getting a quorum for the Elder Affairs Coordinating Council, and that he had a separate meeting with the facilitator of this council, noting that they were working on items to see if they could have more participation. 

Commr. Shields said it seemed like they had many members, and he questioned if they needed this many members since it made having a quorum more challenging.

Commr. Smith mentioned that they were having monthly meetings and that they were considering making them quarterly.

Commr. Parks said that pre-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), many people would attend the meetings; however, the pandemic had created challenges.  He then reported that the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) continued with their 2040 visioning, and that they would have a meeting on the following Thursday; additionally, he explained that they were planning for topics such as autonomous vehicles and road safety for toll roads.  He also mentioned that on the following Friday morning at the South Lake Chamber of Commerce breakfast, they would have a presentation on the Lake-Orange County Connector, which would connect U.S. Highway 27 to State Road (SR) 429 in South Lake; furthermore, there would be some unique innovations built into the road.  He then reported on the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC) and said that Ms. Tara McHugh had been named the new Executive Director.  He thought that the organization had been doing some great things and would be more responsive, such as potentially assisting Lake County with their countywide planning effort.  He mentioned that he and Ms. Barker would have some meetings with Ms. McHugh in the next few days, and he believed that the ECFRPC had the ability to help the County lead this effort of getting joint planning agreements finalized and developing a countywide conservation strategy.

Ms. Barker added that their initial meeting with Ms. McHugh would be in the following week, and that she could provide an update in the next few weeks.

Commr. Campione reported on the Mt. Plymouth-Sorrento Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Advisory Board and stated that there was a discussion on the County Road (CR) 437 realignment and a request to discuss lighting so that it would be dark-sky lighting in keeping with the aesthetics that the CRA Board was trying to encourage, noting that comments would be brought to the Lake County Public Works Department and the BCC.  She mentioned that they were also interested in residential design guidelines for neighborhoods inside or near the CRA, and this would likely be coming to the BCC for their input.

Commr. Blake said that he would have a Public Safety Coordinating Council meeting later on the current day, noting that they historically had quorum issues and had created subcommittees so that they did not always need the entire quorum.  He added that there would be upcoming library impact fee allocations coming before the Library Advisory Board which would be brought to the BCC.

citizen question and comment period

Mr. Vance Jochim, a concerned citizen, mentioned election integrity, and he said that there was a movement to research why there was evidence indicating that many votes may not have been real.  He opined that Senator Alan Hays, Lake County Supervisor of Elections, refused to take any action on having an audit or an independent thorough review of his work processes.  He relayed his understanding that the Inspector General could not initiate reviews of certain departments without a written request, and he opined that people would be contacting the BCC about meeting with them and showing them the evidence.  He recommended that the BCC meet with these committee members to receive their evidence, and to work with Senator Hays to understand the evidence.

Ms. Cindy Newton, a resident of Commission District 4, inquired if the notes were available from the February 7, 2022 meeting with the BCC and the municipalities.

Commr. Parks mentioned the ECFRPC being able to help, and he opined that it needed to be done quickly.  He commented that they would do their best to possibly have some agreements in place by the end of the current year.

proclamation 2022-25 ibuild u.s.a. month

Commr. Parks recognized Ms. Laurie Bryant, with iBuild U.S.A., and said that this proclamation honored the synergy between the construction industry and those who were trying to train people in the trades.  He then read Proclamation 2022-25, and he thanked Ms. Bryant for this partnership and for working with Lake Technical College (Lake Tech).  He stated that the BCC were strong supporters of the construction trades and saw it as instrumental to their economic development in the county. 

Ms. Bryant thanked the Commissioners and said that for iBuild U.S.A. Month in April, one of their large events was the iBuild Invitational which was held on the last Saturday in April each year, noting that this would be their third annual event.  She explained that it was similar to a skills competition for construction, and that competitors for six construction trades would be competing; additionally, there would be a job fair and a signing day.  She mentioned that cash prizes were awarded to the winners, for students of high schools and technical colleges, along with working professionals.  She commented that iBuild U.S.A. also sponsored a construction career camp for middle school students at Lake Tech in June.  She said that for infrastructure, along with fixing and building roads and bridges, these were the workers that her organization were training, noting that they wanted to make construction a first choice in trade.

On a motion by Commr. Shields, seconded by Commr. Smith and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Proclamation 2022-25 proclaiming April 2022 as iBuild U.S.A. month.

CLERK OF the Circuit COURT and comptroller’s CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Consent Agenda, Items 1 through 4, as follows:

List of Warrants

Notice is hereby provided 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.

City of Clermont CRA Agency FY 2021 Annual Report

Notice is hereby provided of having received the City of Clermont Community Redevelopment Agency Annual Report for the fiscal year 2021.

City of Clermont CRA Agency Resolution 23

Notice is hereby provided of having received the City of Clermont Community Redevelopment Agency Resolution 23 adopting the budget amendment for the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year.

Lake County’s Semi-Annual Investment Report of December 31, 2021

Lake County’s Semi-Annual Investment Report of December 31, 2021 is hereby provided.

COUNTY MANAGER’S CONSENT AGENDA

Commr. Smith stated that each Commissioner had agenda reviews with staff, the County Attorney and the County Manager.  He thanked them for updating the consent agenda with regards to the questions he had to make it more understandable.

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

PROCLAMATIONS

Request approval of Proclamation 2022-22 designating May 2022 as Law Enforcement Month, per Commissioner Parks.

Request approval of Water Conservation Month Proclamation 2022-24, per Commissioner Parks.

Request approval of Proclamation 2022-40 honoring the Montverde Academy's Girls Basketball team as the 2022 National Champions, per Commissioner Parks.

Request approval of Proclamation 2022-41 honoring the Montverde Academy's Boys Basketball team as the 2022 National Champions, per Commissioner Parks.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Management and Budget

Recommend approval of agreement with LifeStream Behavioral Center (LifeStream) for disbursement of American Rescue Plan Act funds for the purposes of Ionization System Upgrades and Store Front Glass Enclosures.

The fiscal impact is $158,875 (revenue/expenditure- 100 percent grant funded).

PUBLIC SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Housing and Community Services

Recommend approval to waive the income requirements set forth in the Affordable Housing Partnership Agreement with the Christian Worship Center of Central Florida related to property located at 2520 Old Tavares Road, in Leesburg (a/k/a Alternate Key 1586429). There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 5.

Parks and Trails

Recommend approval:

1. Of Contract 22-417 for Bermuda Grass Athletic Fields/Turf Maintenance at North Lake Regional Park to Earthscapes Unlimited, Inc. (Coleman, FL).

2. To authorize the Office of Procurement Services to execute all supporting documentation.

The estimated fiscal impact is $283,877.52 (expenditure) and is within, and will not exceed, the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget. Commission District 4.

Recommend approval:

1. Of Contract’s 22-418 for Bermudagrass Athletic Fields/Turf Maintenance at East Lake Sports and Community Complex to Earthscapes Unlimited, Inc. (Coleman, FL).

2. To authorize the Office of Procurement Services to execute all supporting documentation.

The estimated fiscal impact is $147,445.02 (expenditure) and is within, and will not exceed, the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget. Commission District 4.

Recommend approval:

1. Of Contract 22-419 for Bermudagrass Athletic Fields/Turf Maintenance at Minneola Athletic Complex to Earthscapes Unlimited, Inc. (Coleman, FL).

2. To authorize the Office of Procurement Services to execute all supporting documentation.

The estimated fiscal impact is $135,959.20 (expenditure) and is within, and will not exceed, the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget. Commission District 2.

Recommend approval:

1. Of Contracts 22-908A, and 22-908B for pre-cast concrete structures on an as-needed basis to Advanced Commercial Contractors, LLC (Eustis, FL), and Leesburg Concrete Company, Inc. (Leesburg, FL).

2. To authorize the Office of Procurement Services to execute all supporting documentation.

The annual fiscal impact is estimated at $175,000 (expenditure) and is within, and will not exceed, the Fiscal Year Budget.

Recommend approval of an Interlocal Agreement with Volusia County to allow Volusia County and its contractor(s) the use of Pearl Street Boat Ramp, located in Astor. This agreement allows the contractor to stage, launch and retrieve licensed salvage equipment from Pearl Street Boat Ramp, into the St. John's River, to remove derelict vessels from the water, which benefits Volusia County and Lake County residents and visitors who access and use the waterway.

There is no fiscal impact. Commission District 4.

Public Works

Recommend approval to accept the final plat for North Shore of Deer Island and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the plat located south of Lake Dora near the Tavares city limits.

The fiscal impact is $1,551 (revenue - final plat application fee). Commission District 3.

Recommend adoption of Resolution 2022-44 accepting Lagerstrom Way (County Road Number 1263A), Gordonia Way (County Road Number 1263B) and Cercis Loop (County Road Number 1263C) into the County's maintenance system.

These roads, totaling 0.6 miles, have an Annualized Average Maintenance Cost Impact of $7,592.82 per year or $151,856.35 over a 20 year life cycle. This is based on current costs for road maintenance efforts including, road surface, curb and gutter, drainage systems, sidewalks and roadway tree trimming. Commission District 2.

Recommend approval to accept the final plat for Ridgeview Phase 3 and all areas dedicated to the public as shown on the Ridgeview Phase 3 final plat, located near Clermont.

The fiscal impact is $1,551 (revenue - final plat application fee). Commission District 1.

Recommend approval to accept public Right of Way and Easement Deeds that have been secured in conjunction with development, roadway, and stormwater projects.

The fiscal impact is $637 (expenditure – recording fees) and is within, and will not exceed, the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget.

public hearing: ordinance 2022-20 schedule of uses

Ms. Melanie Marsh, County Attorney, 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 SECTION 3.01.03, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED SCHEDULE OF PERMITTED AND CONDITIONAL USES; ADDING FAST FOODS RESTAURANTS AS A PERMITTED USE IN C-1 ZONING DISTRICTS; ADDING ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES AND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSITIONAL EDUCATION FACILITIES AS A PERMITTED USE IN CFD ZONING DISTRICTS; ADDING TWO FAMILY DWELLING UNITS AS A PERMITTED USE TO THE R-3, R-4 AND R-6 ZONING DISTRICTS; ADDING MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING UNITS AS A PERMITTED USE TO THE R-4 ZONING DISTRICT; CLARIFYING THAT RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS ARE A PERMITTED USE IN THE RV ZONING DISTRICT; CLARIFYING THAT ELECTRONIC GAME ROOM FACILITIES ARE A PERMITTED USE IN ALL COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONING DISTRICTS; MAKING OTHER MINOR UPDATES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR FILING WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Ms. Marsh added that the Board had been provided with an errata sheet for an additional note clarifying that active parks would still need a site plan approval.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Mr. Brent Spain, an attorney representing the Friends of the Wekiva River, expressed a concern that proposed amendment to the scheduled uses would add additional uses to the Community Facility District (CFD) zoning district as permitted, noting that CFD was allowed in the Wekiva River Protection Area.  He said that the Wekiva River Protection Act generally prohibited development which was not low density residential in nature, unless the development had less impact on natural resources than low density residential.  He asked for clarification that the review for CFDs would be site specific to the uses in the CFD ordinance, or require a case by case approval and review for CFDs in a protected area.  He stated that a solution could be adding a note that a CFD was similar to a planned unit development (PUD) and that if someone wanted to add a use to CFD zoning, they would have to come before the Board to add the additional use, noting that they would have to meet the rezoning criteria.

Ms. Marsh commented that she had spoken with Mr. Spain and that she had suggested language for a note which could read as “uses shown as ‘P’ under the CFD district are only permitted to the extent that the use is specifically included in an approved zoning ordinance.”  She believed that this should address his concerns.

Commr. Campione asked if it would be clear that it pertained to a specific piece of property. 

Ms. Marsh said that they could add that it was included in an approved zoning ordinance for a specific parcel. 

Mr. Grey Wilson, with the Friends of the Wekiva River, indicated concerns that for a CFD, there could be increased intensity of land use within a protected zone.  He thought that the Board had addressed this, and he thanked them for considering this.

Commr. Campione expressed appreciation for his input and involvement for this item.

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

Commr. Campione asked if it was clear that for planned zoning, was it clear that Planned Commercial (CP) zoning was required.

Ms. Marsh replied that CP and Planned Industrial (MP) ordinances were different because generally, a CP ordinance would say “all uses allowed under Neighborhood Commercial (C-1), excluding…,” noting that they would exclude specific uses.  She said that they could include this in the note as well and that she would have to adjust the language to reference “unless specifically excluded for an MP or CP ordinance.”

Commr. Campione expressed interest in making sure that it was connected to the ordinance for the property.

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Smith and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Ordinance 2022-20 amending Section 3.01.03, Lake County Code, Land Development Regulations, entitled Schedule of Permitted and Conditional Uses, with the additional notation for the planned zoning districts and CFD.

public hearing: ordinance 2022-21 accessory dwelling units

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 SECTION 10.01.03, LAKE COUNTY CODE, APPENDIX E, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ENTITLED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS; REINSTATING THE 1200 SQUARE FOOT OPTION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR FILING WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Commr. Parks explained that this was essentially a correction from several months prior.

Ms. Marsh confirmed this and stated that when the Board modified their accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance to make it easier to get an ADU, the 1,200 square foot option was inadvertently removed.  She said that this was brought to the County’s attention by a resident who requested that they add it back in, noting that staff agreed.

Commr. Parks said that this was the County’s effort to try to promote and encourage ADUs to help with housing and to serve their residents better.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Mr. Jochim expressed appreciation for the County working on ADUs.  He also expressed support for anything the Board could do for ADUs or tiny homes to improve the ability for people to get into a starter home.

Commr. Campione commented that Mr. Jochim often discussed the possibility of bringing impact fees to 100 percent, noting that adding up all of these fees was part of the price point.  She added that roads were congested because there were many people moving into the area and passing through Lake County each day.  She mentioned that the Board had to balance this to address the affordability of housing while also trying to keep up with transportation improvements and not price people out of the housing market.

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

On a motion by Commr. Smith, seconded by Commr. Shields and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Ordinance 2022-21 amending Section 10.01.03, Lake County Code, Appendix E, Land Development Regulations, entitled Accessory Dwelling Units, to revise the criteria pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units.

public hearing: vacation petition near groveland

Mr. Fred Schneider, Assistant County Manager, presented vacation petition #1266.  He said that the applicant was Mr. Neal Moskowitz, Vice President for SFG Groveland I, represented by Mr. Fred Roberts, an attorney with Klein and Klein.  He mentioned that the site was located in the City of Groveland area in Commission District 1, and he showed a map of the area, noting that the vacation was located south of U.S. Highway 27 and west of SR 19.  He also added that it was within the Christopher C. Ford Commerce Park, and he showed an aerial view, noting that the areas in red were drainage utility easements that divided individual lots.  He explained that the property owner who owned these lots wanted to unify title into one large property so that they could build a larger project.  He said that they did not have any opposition or issues of concern, and that staff recommended approval.

Commr. Parks asked to confirm that the County did not need this from an engineering standpoint.

Mr. Schneider said that this was correct and that the easements would not be needed once the title was unified and when the site was regraded and redone.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Mr. Roberts clarified that utility easements were also provided on the exterior of the lot, and that unity of title had already been filed with the County.  He added that once this was effective, it would be one parcel and was intended to be developed as a larger and more significant project.

Commr. Campione asked if the exterior easements would remain intact, and Mr. Roberts confirmed this.  Commissioner Campione then noted that this was within the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD), and she asked where the dividing line was.

Mr. Schneider believed that it was toward Sumter County and west of the City of Mascotte.

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

On a motion by Commr. Shields, seconded by Commr. Smith and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board approved Resolution 2022-45 to vacate platted side and rear lot line utility and drainage easements within the Christopher C. Ford Central Park Phase III plat, located South of US 27 and West of SR 19. The closest municipality is the City of Groveland.

public hearing: waiver to sewer connection

Ms. Janie Barrón, Chief Planner for the Office of Planning and Zoning, presented the Hannah Grace Gardens utility waiver request.  She noted that the request had been advertised in accordance with State statutes, and that it was part of Project #2019080007, Application Request #4251.  She said that the project was located west of Pruitt Street and south of Greenvalley Road in the City of Leesburg area, within Commission District 5, with a size of 1.97 acres.  She added that the requested action was to request approval of a waiver to the mandatory sewer connection requirements for the Hannah Grace Gardens major site plan review.  She displayed maps and stated that the parcel had a designation of Urban Medium Future Land Use (FLU), and was currently zoned Residential Professional (RP).  She showed the concept plan and provided the following staff analysis findings: on November 10, 2020, the Office of Planning and Zoning received a development application for major site plan approval for a proposed 14-unit residential duplex facility known as “Hannah Grace Gardens” on 1.97 acres in the City of Leesburg area of unincorporated Lake County; on December 11, 2020, staff provided the owner with a staff comment letter which identified the subject property to be located within the Urban FLU series with an FLU of Urban Medium; pursuant to Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) Policy IX-3.1.2 and Land Development Regulations (LDR) Section 6.12.01.B, where a public sanitary sewer system was not available, new development within the Urban FLU Series which exceeded a density of one dwelling unit per net acre shall provide a regional or sub-regional sanitary sewer system, unless exempted by the BCC at a public hearing; the City of Leesburg had indicated that central sewer services were not available at this location; and the applicant had indicated that, in lieu of central sewer,  the subject property would be serviced by an advanced wastewater treatment system, noting that the system would use an effluent drip system for wastewater disposal.  She said that staff recommended that the Board approve the applicant’s request to utilize an advanced wastewater treatment system in lieu of connecting to a central sewer system, and that the waiver shall remain valid until: the Board determines that the existing method of providing wastewater was endangering the environment, public health, safety, or welfare; the private system fails, and a replacement is required, the property is in the Urban FLU series, and is within the distance established by the LDR to be considered available; or the private system is relocated, and the property is within the Urban FLU Series.

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 asked if the advanced wastewater treatment system came with a septic system.

Commr. Parks clarified that advanced wastewater treatment was a high performance system, relaying his understanding that options for an advanced wastewater treatment system or a distributed wastewater treatment system (DWTS) would be available.

Commr. Campione noted that they would not need the waiver if they were using a DWTS.

Ms. Marsh confirmed that a DWTS was considered a sub-regional/regional system and would not need a waiver; however, the applicant was proposing an advanced wastewater treatment system.  She added that the applicant’s consultant did not reference the Onsyte DWTS.

Commr. Campione said that the County could have these 14 units as part of their DWTS pilot program if they used this system.

Commr. Parks believed that this was the same price or cheaper than the advanced wastewater treatment systems.  He inquired about the applicant’s timing.

Ms. Barrón replied that the site plan was currently in review.

Commr. Parks proposed to possibly table this item to the April 26, 2022 BCC meeting to ask the applicant this question, noting that a DWTS was a cheaper option and treated the water better.

Commr. Blake relayed his understanding that approving this item at the current meeting would not preclude the applicant from doing this.

Commr. Campione opined that the Board would be giving them a waiver as if there was not another option.

Commr. Shields agreed and expressed support for tabling this item for two weeks.

Commr. Campione thought that it would be understood that County staff would be reaching out to the applicant and working with them.

Commr. Smith asked about the difference between the advanced wastewater treatment system and the Onsyte system, indicating that he would vote in favor of tabling this item to receive those answers.

Ms. Barker stated that staff could create a slide for when the item was brought back in two weeks.

Commr. Campione inquired if the site plan review could continue.

Ms. Barrón believed that the applicant had submitted this item in March 2022; however, the case had to be moved.  She said that the applicant was waiting on a response, but she could give him an update.

On a motion by Commr. Shields, seconded by Commr. Campione and carried by a vote of 4-1, the Board tabled a waiver to the mandatory sewer connection requirements for Hannah Grace Gardens (Project No. 2019080007, Application Request No. 4251) to the April 26, 2022 BCC meeting.

Commr. Blake voted no.

appointment to the board of building examiners

On a motion by Commr. Campione, seconded by Commr. Blake and carried unanimously by a vote of 5-0, the Board appointed Mr. Ray Newman to the Board of Building Examiners as a Consumer Member.

commissioners reports

commissioner shields – district 1

HANDS OF HOPE RIBBON CUTTING

Commr. Shields commented that he attended the ribbon cutting for the Hands of Hope America community center in Four Corners, noting that they were offering computer training.  He added that he also attended the ribbon cutting for the Unitarian Universalist Church solar array in the City of Eustis.

DRAKE POINT SITE VISIT

Commr. Shields said that he had a site visit at Drake Point, a property near the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills, noting that an item regarding this area would be coming to the BCC.

CITY OF GROVELAND CRA MEETING

Commr. Shields stated that he attended a City of Groveland CRA meeting, and that Mr. Steve Smith had given a presentation about constructing three workforce homes inside the CRA.

SITE VISIT TO WE CARE OF LAKE COUNTY

Commr. Shields mentioned that he had a site visit to We Care of Lake County.

LAKE COUNTY LEAGUE OF CITIES MEETING

Commr. Shields relayed that he attended a Lake County League of Cities meeting and that Representative Keith Truenow had spoken.

YMCA PROGRAM IN SCHOOLS

Commr. Shields said that the YMCA had a program currently in four middle schools to help at-risk children and get them on the correct path; however, the group was about $100,000 short on their grant funding in the current year.

commissioner smith – vice chairman and district 3

MEETINGS WITH CITIZENS

Commr. Smith stated that he had several citizens meetings over the past few weeks.

SJRWMD MEETING AT LAKE APOPKA

Commr. Smith mentioned that he met with the SJRWMD at their facility at the north shore of Lake Apopka.  He encouraged the Commissioners to tour the facility, and mentioned that they had a wildlife drive along the north shore.  He believed that the Friends of Lake Apopka was assisting with this, and he praised the maintenance being done there.

TOWN OF HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS COUNCIL MEETING

Commr. Smith remarked that he attended the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Council meeting on the previous night.

LAKE COUNTY FAIR OPENING

Commr. Smith said that he attended the Lake County Fair opening on the previous Wednesday, and that there was a great group of people.  He relayed that the fair was growing and that the lines for cars entering the fair were out to County Road (CR) 452.

NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH DAY

Commr. Smith commented that it was National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day.

commissioner campione –district 4

Visit to Lake county fair

Commr. Campione stated that on the previous night, she visited the Lake County Fair steer show and that it was a great experience, noting that 4-H members and Future Farmers of America members were in attendance.  She also noted that it was crowded and that they had to compress the footprint of the fair because of drainage issues, adding that it was challenging to find parking.  She opined that the Board had to figure out how to move along the relocation of the fair more quickly, noting that this could be discussed a day or two after the fair ended.

Commr. Smith said that he was in favor of this, noting that he had been a proponent of moving the fair to a better location.

Commr. Parks said that the Board also had to consider the rest of the year on the new site and what the County could do there.

Visit to umatilla kiwanis club

Commr. Campione mentioned that she had visited the Umatilla Kiwanis Club and that they had a presentation from Umatilla Elementary School students who participated in the science fair and won awards. She also recalled that she had attended a Kiwanis division meeting in Astor, and that all of the Kiwanis clubs in Lake County were in attendance.  She explained that the Kiwanis’ focus was reaching children and helping them develop into leaders, along with meeting the needs of children throughout the county.  She said that she also had a chance to inform them of items happening in Astor, including the Butler Street Boat Ramp restroom facility, and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds going toward the playground and library.

scout event

Commr. Campione said that there was a scout event and that they raised a record amount of money for Lake County scouts.  She added that they also recognized their first female Eagle Scout in Lake County.  She expressed support for having her attend a BCC meeting to be recognized, along with the other Eagle Scouts.

Commr. Parks expressed support for recognizing her and other Eagle Scouts.

intersection of britt road and state road 44

Commr. Campione expressed concerns for the intersection of Britt Road and SR 44 in Commission District 4, noting that there was a stacking issue when cars were trying to turn left or right onto SR 44.  She said that Mr. Schneider, and Mr. Jeff Earhart, Engineering Manager for the Public Works Department, were working with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), noting that FDOT hoped to have a traffic light installed there by the end of the current year.

pine lakes area

Commr. Campione remarked that she had been reviewing issues in the Pine Lakes area, noting that individuals had brought safety issues to her attention, in addition to issues involving the community and young people in that area.  She thought that they had the opportunity for the donation of a building there which could be used for various programs to help with youth in the area.  She mentioned that there was a great park there, though it was underutilized, and she wanted to explore possibly providing sidewalks or a trail to help facilitate the use of the park.  She also expressed appreciation for staff working with her on these issues.

COMMISSIONER BLAKE – DISTRICT 5

flooding at lake county fairgrounds

Commr. Blake asked how often they were experiencing flooding at the Lake County Fairgrounds and if it was an unusual experience.

Commr. Campione stated that it usually happened if it rained right before or during the fair, noting that it impacted a large portion of the property.

motion at previous meeting

Commr. Blake noted that he had incorrectly asserted a procedural motion at the previous BCC meeting.

vehicle accident at fruitland park city hall

Commr. Blake commented that in the previous week, a vehicle had crashed into the Fruitland Park City Hall.  He added that it appeared to be an accident, and that the City was having to replace the doors; however, no one was hurt.

Commr. Campione commented that on the previous day, there was a boat that was either capsized or taking on water, and that Volusia County had asked for assistance from Lake County.  She added that Lake County staff had arrived there and that everyone was rescued, noting that there was good teamwork and cooperation.

commissioner parks – Chairman and district 2

lake county fair

Commr. Parks stated that the Lake County Fair was exciting, and he thanked staff for responding to a flooding issue.

Commr. Smith thanked Ms. Barker for responding quickly.

Ms. Barker thanked the Public Works Department, and said that they came in on a Saturday and had brought in 20 loads of millings to stabilize the ground there.

Commr. Smith mentioned that their efforts assisted the fair.

thanking county attorney

Commr. Parks thanked Ms. Marsh for working several weekends on code changes and other items that would come to the BCC in the future.

breakfast at south lake chamber of commerce

Commr. Parks invited everyone to breakfast on the following Friday at the South Lake Chamber of Commerce, noting that there would be a presentation on the Lake-Orange County Connector.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to be brought to the attention of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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SEAN PARKS, chairman

 

 

ATTEST:

 

 

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GARY J COONEY, CLERK